Waldgeist: A Gothic Tragedy (2025)

In the late 1800s, a cynical orphan joins a traveling circus. Determined to win countywide fame, Yasmin Lange studies the true master of the troupe - Ringmaster Erbanhue, "the Dragon" - hoping to win his favor. But Yasmin's mordant manners thwart her own intentions. And over time, paranormal mystery and troupe-wide tragedy mingle in her shadow, earning Yasmin a reputation for witchcraft.

As Yasmin attains womanhood, her darkening fate intertwines with the fate of the handsome ringmaster. The wicked yet charismatic Erbanhue treats Yasmin with vacillating awe, suspicion, and abuse. Despite the torment Yasmin endures, she cannot pry her cold heart from between the Dragon's sweltering claws. His masterful, inspiring energy is everything Yasmin ever longed for... everything she believes love emulates.

A fictional diary transcribing social isolation and romantic obsession, Victorian Gothic tale Waldgeist submerses the reader in the battle for Yasmin's soul against demonic forces, agonizing love, and the devastating consequences of choosing apathy over truth and passion.

Morgenstern's Night Circus with romantic tragedy à la Brontë.