I had this book on my shelf for months, and I finally decided to read it. So glad I did. It is beautifully written with interesting characters, and it does indeed have a magical feel to it. As children, a man and a woman with gifts for illusions and manipulation were pitted against each other by their caretakers to engage in a long-lasting game. Over time they learn the truth and finally understand what winning the 'competition' will ultimately mean. Of course, they fall in love with each other in the process, and although normally a romance novel would send me running in the opposite direction, the love story in 'The Night Circus' is anchored by plenty of action and intrigue. The mushiness is kept to a minimum. 
 This book is definitely worth stepping outside of your usual genre to read.