The Circus of The Crescent Moon #2

Rookscroft #2

by Jayne Siroshton

When winter descends on the little island and cold winds blow driving rain against the walls and windows, the old manor house known as Rookscroft becomes the unexpected sanctuary for a delightful circus troupe in need of a new venue for their latest show.

Genres: Fantasy

255 pages, Hardcover

Published June 1, 2021

About the author

Jayne Siroshton is an artist and author of whimsical, cozy fiction inspired by nature, folklore, and the quiet magic of everyday life. When she isn't writing or illustrating, she can often be found tending her garden, sipping tea, or spending time with her beloved animal companions.

She lives in a small village in Yorkshire, where she continues to create stories that invite readers into gentle, enchanting worlds.

She’s currently working on Rookscroft Book Four, stay tuned for what comes next.

Reviews

[Claire Smith-Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Love Books Tours and Rookscroft for my copy, here is my honest review.

I continue to be entranced by this series, the physical books look so delightful and the illustrations are a gorgeous edition to this wonderful story. It picks up shortly after the first book and Jayne keenly feels the loneliness of life without her new found animal friends. She manages to persuade the fabulous Quentin to join her at the house for winter to keep each other company. This begins a new tale where a fabulous new array of characters call at the house, including the mysterious Kitty who has lost her memory and the Magnificent Oleg and Wild Bill from the circus.

Jayne and Quentin decide to help Kitty to see if she can find her family. Meanwhile, a travelling circus joins the village, reeling from losing some of their friends and performers recently, they decide the show must go on and get ready to perform. But not everything goes to plan.

I won't spoil the ending other than to say it ends perfectly and the series so far is completely charming.

I loved getting to know Quentin more in this book and the introduction of Oleg and Bill added further to my enjoyment of this book. Their personalities are quirky and evocative, I almost feel like I'm in the room with them sat listening to their tales around the warm fire. I can't wait for the next book as I'm eager to find more charming animal friends.

[Payton Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coming across Rookscroft on our honeymoon on an island across the country was perhaps the most serendipitous happenstance of my lifetime. This series and it’s dedicated artwork being me such wild joy. I do hope there will be another installment!

[Kez Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another charming adventure into the whimsical world of Rookscroft, and its delightful illustrations.
We meet a host of new characters as winter approaches and Jayne opens her home to a variety of guests.
There's a mystery with a cat suffering from amnesia, a travelling circus that comes to town, an investigative Fox and a missing circus star.
I love Quentin's wit and humour, and Jayne's welcoming nature as she welcomes travellers and animals in need of shelter. Oleg was a sweet cat, trying to get the travelling circus back on track and saddened over the loss of his friends.
Kitty was trying to find her place and unlock her memories, and the circus is in need a place to perform.
I enjoyed meeting all the new characters and learning about their stories and travels. It's a sweet adventure with themes of found family, helping others, and a magical atmosphere with a happy ending.

[Bookish Coffee UK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ooohhh well now Jane's gone and done it again, with such a brilliant storyline. One of the magical nature's creatures come to life with qwerky characteristics and fancy clothes I can only dream off.

Having this magical adventure that sweeps you off your feet and drifts you into this magical world.

The illustrations are just beautiful and I like how the author does it all by herself. Clearly very talented. And does indeed help ones brain picture the characters or scenery.

[Regency_Fan_ Michelle RegencyFanMichelleAndMore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Step into a whimsical world where nature, folklore, and everyday enchantment intertwine, creating a cozy, unforgettable story. These charming books beckon readers to embark on adventures that ignite the imagination and breathe life into every page through captivating storytelling. Join us back at the cottage with Jayne and Quentin as winter blankets the landscape. News breaks of the Circus' towering big top being swept into the sea—what fate awaits the traveling troupe? Meet a cast of new characters and wonder: can they overcome the loss of their star performer and keep the show alive? I’ve absolutely loved these books, and I can't wait for you to experience their magic.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and read it with pleasure. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.

[Nick Willis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this amazingly cool shop in York last year while visiting to see the Xmas markets . Apon entering I saw some really cool artwork mostly with animals which I found really interesting. I ended up getting both books for Xmas. I struggled with the first one but couldn't for the life of me out this one down .

The story follows a woman called Jayne who interacts with a range of animals who wear the most interesting outfits, who end up organising a circus act. The book also includes some great illustrations which is also done by the author . I would recommend this to someone who is after a light heartfelt read .

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

So here we are, the second instalment of the Rookscroft series. This book is a lot longer than the first, with so many wonderful characters and adventures.

I am so pleased that Quentin is back and takes a central role in this book. I love his humour and banter, both with Jayne and a new friend he makes.

The illustrations are again something else, they are beautiful and colourful and really lift the story from the pages. My favourites being of Harold and Whittington.

What’s so special with this book is how completely normal it seems that animals of all different species are visiting and conversing with Jayne. All in their outfits and everything they need to live a busy, almost human life. It really does keep the magic of the animal kingdom alive for adults and children alike. In all honesty I feel this one is aimed more at the adult audience (although older children will still love it).

In this book we meet many new characters, and they are all just that - characters! Some are quiet and shy, some are outgoing and know exactly what they want and expect. As the title suggests we are treated to a circus within the story, it was amazing how the author brought this to life with different animals and their abilities to perform.

There are also other stories interwoven, with tales of missing friends and family and maybe the odd surprise of two along the way.

All in all this is one to loose yourself in and forget all about the real world.

[BooksCoveredHB · Rating 5 out of 5]

For my full sensory read please visit my blog. The whole book visually and physically is a very luxurious book to own. The illustrations are just stunning and compliment the text beautifully. The text is accessible as it is broken down into many small paragraphs. This time we are introduced to many more characters from cats, and mice to a fox, we still have the lovely characters from book one, which is great. The dialogue and interactions and relationships between the different species are wonderful. I think some parts went over my youngest head like the consumption of alcohol, she particularly enjoyed the part about the disappearing mice. This book takes the reader on a journey about quite literally a traveling circus. This is a very whimsical and an atmospheric read, ideal for cozy autumnal and winter nights. The whole set together gives me very autumnal and cozy vibes from their presentation which each cover being a rich autumn shade and they also feel very rural and folklore. As a family of all ages we really enjoy this and are looking forward to book three. I highly recommend The Circus of The Crescent Moon.

[Jennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great continuation of the Rookscroft series. Similar to the first book, All Feathers and Hats, this has a very cozy, whimsical vibe. Our narrator Jayne's adventures continue, and we see some more of Quentin as well as meet a new cast of vibrant characters. This installment was a story about friendship, the ways we are the same and the ways we are different (even different species!). And putting aside those differences and coming together. The world and characters the author has created are really lovely and, stylistically, the writing was very easy to read.

Much like book 1, this edition is physically gorgeous. The illustrations are also by the author and evoke that same fantastical sense of whimsy.

💜 Thank you so much to Jayne Siroshton and Love Books Tours for the #gifted copy of The Circus of the Crescent Moon and having me on this #booktour in exchange for my honest review! The tour for book 3 in the Rookscroft series is coming soon! 💜

[Charlotte Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Circus of the Crescent Moon follows on perfectly from the 1st book, we again meet some characters from the previous books & some have a larger appearance in this book especially Quentin!!

Jayne has once again created a beautiful world with beautiful characters. This time the circus has come to town, & we have the added mystery of Kitty, who has forgotten her memories from her previous life.

Like the first book, everything is described so vividly, I can imagine myself in a circus with cats, badges & mice .

I loved the expansion in this book, where the first book gave you little snippets of the Rookscroft world this one felt like it expanded and delved more into the surroundings.

Again the book has a number of lovely illustrations to go along with the story.

If you like unusual and whimsical stories this is a book series you will love!!

[Nicola Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a beautiful continuation of the Rookscroft series. The story was wonderful, and it was an absolute pleasure to read. We have another beautiful cover featuring Oleg the Magnificent. Oleg's image is another beautiful illustration by Jane. The book is very well written and flows nicely. The writing is descriptive and can be followed easily enough. The book is full of even more of Jane's beautiful illustrations. They're just stunning. She is a very talented artist. The setting is idyllic, and in winter, it sounds so picturesque. From Jane's illustrations, it looks this way, too! I loved all the characters, and they were perfect in their roles. I was so happy that Quentin was in this one again. He's one of my favourites. I also adored Oleg. He was wonderful. I definitely recommend the series.

[Tami Wylie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2 in the Rookscroft series pays another visit to Jayne in her lovely house Rookscroft. She’s feeling a bit lonely as winter is setting in and she has t seen much of her animal friends. When a storm blows in, she goes I. Search of her friend Quentin who lives in a rose bush. He agrees to move in with Jay e for the winter. They meet lots of new friends when a circus comes to town and uses Jayne’s house for their performance when their tent blows away. New characters Kitty, Sarah, Oleg and Bill, along with all the circus acts are great additions to the story. I loved little Robin the quail and his interactions with Quentin. Some were quite funny! Once again the book is packed with beautiful watercolour illustrations of the main characters, bringing these wonderful creatures to life. I’m really enjoying these books and can’t wait to get stuck into the next one.

[Emma Minazza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another beautiful edition, this one focuses on the circus coming to Rookscroft. We meet Oleg and Bill, amongst other amazing animals, all have an artistic flair with their circus acts. It definitely sounds amazing! I can't remember the last time I went to a circus!

There is a smaller sideline story with Kitty which is heartwarming and we see the return of Quentin. I adore these characters! The illustrations dotted alongside the story make me happy, they create so much admiration, I love it!

I also really like how everyone gets along, regardless of their species. Cats and mice, fox and badger, cat and bird.

Looking forward to meeting some more new characters in the third book!

[Jade Smedley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This whimsical and quirky world was bought alive again in book 2! Back with Jayne and Quentin, we are thrust back into a world of imagination and joined by even more well-dressed and interesting animal friends.

Still beautifully illustrated throughout, book 2 welcomes us to the travelling circus and the mishaps and magic that go with it. A perfect cosy read for this season, it interweaves brilliant characterisation with a fun and imaginative storyline throughout. The old friends, and new, are just as quirky and creative as in book 1, but the added elements in the plot made this one even more enjoyable for me. Adults deserve some magic too!

Thank you to Love Books Tours and Jayne Siroshton for having me along on this tour!

[theweebookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two continues where from where we left book one with Jayne living in Rookscroft. Quentin is sharing her home sheltering from the winter.

Soon Kitty, followed by Oleg, knock at the door and before we know it, we are looking at a mystery or two to solve along with a visiting circus.

Another wonderful and whimsical tale where we are introduced to a great array of characters including Sarah, Bill, Anna and many more. Quentin plays a bigger role in this book and I loved his little sidekick Robin, the Quail.

I can't forget to mention the beautiful illustrations that are interspersed throughout the book. The theme of friendship and family, in all different shapes and sizes, is very evident throughout the book.

[Fatguyreading · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I must say, this is such a beautiful book, inside and out and has such a luxurious, sumptuous feel in the nice, heavy hardback. The wonderful, richly detailed illustrations add to that feel wonderfully.

Now onto the story. It's aimed at adults, rather than younger readers, the consumption of alcohol being a good example of this.

The story is atmospheric, whimsical and fun, just perfect for this time of year with a glorious autumnal feel. Based around a travelling circus, inhabited by a plethora of lovely animal characters, and a great, descriptive storyline with folklore vibes, this really was one of my favourite reads of the year.

A huge 5 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.

[Lauren Griffiths · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book with my 9 year old daughter, Peighton. When I asked her what she thought about the book, she said:

“I could just imagine how fluffy the cat is and how cosy their house is. Reading this book has made me want to learn to paint. I really enjoyed this book.”

As a parent, reading this book with my daughter… I felt book two in this series was much more exciting and engaging for us. I really like how the storyline progressed and that we are introduced to some more amazing characters.

Looking forward to picking up the next book in the series!

[MrsD271015 D · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked the cover because it looked really interesting.

My favourite character was Katenka because she was good at acrobatics.

I liked the circus because of all the interesting acts which were funny, and exciting.

The story was half happy and half sad. The bits that made it happy were when they were reunited. I felt sad for Oleg when some of the circus folk stayed behind.

I would like to know more about what happens to the characters when the circus moves on.

I think this is a good book to share and I think it would be good for children age 6+ as there are some bits that could be a little scary.

I give the book five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Nicola Malloch · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series of books are some of the most beautiful I have received. They have an old world style that really appeals to me, it reminds me of the Victorian era. This time we are following Quentin as a circus comes to town, this was such a fun way to introduce a whole host of fun new characters. I never like to give story lines away so will leave that for you to read but I can comment on how adorable this series is, it is such a comfy cosy book that me and Autumn loved reading together

[Alec ⟠ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this book! I loved book one but this really added to the overall whimsy by adding lots more quirky characters and a circus coming to town, almost entirely run by cats!

Quentin was his amusingly grumpy self and really added a touch of humour to the pages, and I loved the author being a character.

I thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the different characters and admiring all of the beautiful art throughout the book! A fantastic book for all ages :)

[Kate Edmondson · Rating 5 out of 5]

After book one we were straight into book 2!
Robert spends so much time on the illustrations and how they've been described as you go through the story.
We loved continuing to follow Quentin, and the introduction of 'Wild Bill' really made us laugh &
For reading with a child the chapter and paragraph lengths are great and the story is engaging.
'Oh my Lord, you have lost the plot' made us chuckle too! It's book two in a series that you and your child will love

[Stacy Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book two in the series this is another cozy read, more characters introduced, more great pictures katenca is our favourite she looks like our cat sassy, the author brings hwr books to life with her artwork its so beautiful, im starting to thik she is the only human in the village, this ones chapters are longer than the first book but still enjoyed it.

[Hannah Louise Catherall · Rating 5 out of 5]

My new favourite in the series! Another whimsical cosy tale of our companions, I really enjoyed this one again. It’s longer than the first book which I enjoyed more because I felt we went a little deeper with some of our characters. I enjoyed that we saw more of Quentin in this book and his cheeky characteristics were coming out more. Overall I really like this series and I’m looking forward to book 3 now!

[Charlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cozyness, cats, and the circus?? What’s not to love?! This is perfect for autumn reading and I highly recommend!

[Sonja Charters · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, back at the start of September, I read

All Feathers And Hats, the first book in the Rookscroft series and was absolutely blown away by the whole concept.

 

We're back with Jayne and the other residents of Rookscroft and the weather is changing - but there are lots of new friends to meet throughout this book.

 

As the title suggests, the circus is coming to town and I was so excited to meet everyone and to learn about all their abilities.

 

This story flows nicely in from the first book and again, was a pleasure to read.

 

The writing is beautifully descriptive and so whimsical.

These really take me back to my childhood when I loved to read stories like these.

 

This storyline does delve into a few more serious themes, so might be worth checking through before reading to your children - however, I think these are just great to read by yourself and just immerse yourself in this wonderful world.

 

I can't wait to dive into the third book asap and see what's in store for us all.

[Dani ~ Booksbrewsandbees · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second delightful adventure at Rookscroft and is as wonderful as the first one!

The Circus of the Crescent Moon starts with winter starting to set in and Jayne worrying about her animal friends being out in the cold. She invites Quentin the pheasant to stay with her in the house both to keep him safe and warm and for his company too.

She soon receives another visitor to the house - a beautiful cat called Kitty who has no recollection of her life except for the most recent weeks. A fox called Sarah is enlisted to help find Kittys family and to discover her past.

Meanwhile more visitors turn up on Jaynes doorstep - a cat called Oleg followed by his friend, a badger called Bill, who end up staying at the house while preparing their circus in town.

What would have been a quiet winter soon turns into a house full of wonderful creatures with equally wonderful stories to tell, with lots of adventure such as tracking down Kittys family, helping to set up the circus and taking in new family members!

This book is such a delight to read and would be equally enchanting to children and adults alike! The illustrations of the characters are wonderful and it really helps you to see what they all look like and to have the image of the story in your head while reading.

The characters are all great with such a variety of animals and personalities! I enjoyed learning more about the surrounding areas and the different creatures who live there. The circus theme was such fun and really gets your imagination flowing thinking about the animals preforming all the stunts!

Overall, this book was great - perfect for everyone, especially fans of people such as Beatrix Potter and those who love bringing animals to life!

I can’t wait to read book 3 in this series and find out more about the goings on at Rookscroft 🤍

[Alis Page · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Circus of the Crescent Moon is the second book in Jayne Siroshton’s enchanting Rookscroft series.
This story is filled with friendship, fears, and a magical world where animals wear hats, share stories, and speak just like us. Unlikely companions come together in a land brimming with charm and whimsy, yet beneath the enchantment lies a subtle reminder of the natural world—where animals don’t always see each other as friends. This clever thread of realism adds depth without losing the magic.
The book is a heartwarming fantasy that celebrates kindness, courage, and the bonds that flourish when differences are put aside. The writing feels like a cosy hug—warm, comforting, and full of charm. The characters are superb, with familiar faces like Quentin returning and delightful new ones such as Kitty and Oleg joining the adventure. The descriptive prose brings Rookscroft vividly to life, painting scenes I could imagine in full colour.
One of my favourite quotes was:
“Like a mist that gathers on the beach on a sunny morning so soft and bright, yet it still obscures the great sea behind the gauzy curtain.”
As I read, I truly felt part of the gang—whether eating my breakfast of homemade jam and bread or recalling a recent trip to the circus with my youngest grandson. The book captured the same sense of excitement, camaraderie, and bustle as performers prepare to step into the spotlight.
The Circus of the Crescent Moon is a delightful addition to the Rookscroft series, brimming with heart and imagination. It’s a story that will charm children and adults alike, reminding us of the joy of friendship and the courage found in unlikely places. Perfect for bedtime reading or shared moments, it’s a book that leaves you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page.

[Cathy Pike · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is booked two in the RooksCroft series and we catch up with old friends from book one and we are also introduced to new friends. Winter is fast approaching bringing with it a bad storm. Jayne is worried about her friend Quentin who lives in a Rosebush which is looking decidedly, sorry for itself and isn’t providing the safety it did in the summer. Jayne is also lonely all by herself in her big house so she invites Quentin to stay with her until the weather improves. Soon others turn up on Jayne‘s doorstep seeking shelter. And with these new friends comes to talk of the circus.

I absolutely love this series and book 2 did not disappoint. Well, it may be a children’s book it is absolutely great fun and can be enjoyed by all ages. This book is gorgeous and all the illustrations are also done by Jayne’s fair hand. I really enjoyed Jayne‘s writing style and the world building is great. As I said it is suitable for all ages and you don’t have to be a child to enjoy it. I love the mix of characters and the plot was fab. This is a great four star read for me and I would definitely recommend.

[Oldbookishwoman · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was an absolute pleasure to return to this enchanted land where animals are very dapper and full of personality.
The artist of the story is quickly realising as winter is going to arrive all too soon and is feeling rather lonely. So she is delighted when Quentin agrees to stay with her for a while.
As the story progresses we meet new characters as well as familiar ones. It has a travelling circus which brings plenty of stories, mysteries and heart. I loved reading the developing friendship between Jayne and Quentin their banter often made me chuckle.
As with the first book the illustrations are just so beautiful and bring so much to the story. I also have to say the book is so well made, it really is high quality
This one may not be suitable for younger reads especially as the story progresses. I would read all three books first and use parental judgement.
A perfect read now the evenings are drawing in. So grab yourself a hot drink and blanket and prepare to be whisked away to a land of friendship and adventure.

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

📆 single timeline.
👀 single POV
🐢 -🐇 slow-paced
💬 "Write about this circus of carnivores? Who would read such a thing?"

As with book 1 this is physically stunning. The hardcover, thick glossy pages and wonderful artwork make for a really beautiful book. Definitely a series that deserves to be in anyone's collection.

Circus of the Crescent Moon is not just a physically wonderful, it's also a thoroughly enjoyable story. It was so lovely to be
back with Jayne and her animal friends. And this time the circus is in town. I absolutely loved meeting all the circus performers, and enjoyed the high-wire act nearly as much as if I were seeing it for real.

In the Rookscroft series, Siroshton has built a wonderful, whimsical world with loveable creatures and a curious narrator who we dont really know much about. This air of mystery adds another layer to the story for me. I love that we don't know anything about Jayne really and can only assume that she is a human.

Roll on book three!