REVIEW: Caraval by Stephanie Garber

Prepare to be enchanted with this mind-bending novel as you experience magical twists, alluring tension, and a constant question on your mind: "Is this real or is it all part of the game?"

BOOK OVERVIEW

Caraval by Stephanie Garber

Series: Caraval #1

Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy, Romance, Magic, Mystery

Content Warnings: Parental Abuse, Blood & Gore Depictions, Kidnapping, Murder, Suicide, Attempted Sexual Assault

Suggested Age Rating: 12-14+

Published: January 31, 2017, by Flatiron Books

Page Count: 407

Synopsis:

Scarlett Dragna, and her sister, Tella, have been fascinated with the once-a-year Caraval ever since they were little. Despite living on a small island with their ever-controlling and cruel father, they still hope that they will one day experience the magic of the faraway Caraval. However, when Scarlett's father arranges a marriage for her, Scarlett's dreams are over. But after seven years, Scarlett's long-awaited letter of invitation finally arrives from Legend, the Grand Master of Caraval. Her sister, Tella, sees this as an opportunity to escape the island with the help of a mysterious sailor, taking Scarlett along with her. When Scarlett arrives at the isle where this year's Caraval will be held, she realizes that her sister is missing, and is now the prize. In order to rescue her sister, Scarlett must play the next five nights of the mesmerizing game of deception, love, heartbreak and magic. While questioning reality, Scarlett must win this mysterious and dangerous game of Caraval, or lose her sister forever.

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"Remember, it's only a game"

INITIAL THOUGHTS

So, here I am, finally deciding to read this book that's been out for 5 years because of the countless recommendations I got for it. I've always wanted to read a carnival or circus-like fantasy book, and Caraval was perfect for it! Also, the cover looked amazing so I decided to give this book a try!

MY REVIEW

"Welcome, welcome to Caraval! The grandest show on land or by sea."

Honestly, it's best to go into this book knowing absolutely nothing about it! I never read the blurbs on the back of any book mainly because it spoils some elements that could have been surprising.

But I digress.

The beautiful and dangerously enchanting Caraval is set on the game's Grand Master Legend's private isle. Prepare to have your reality warped when you read the scenes as it shifts frequently, but in an awesome way! I absolutely loved the setting of this book and how it truly made me question what aspects were real and what weren't. It played tricks on my mind, which I ADORE. Not many books can accomplish this, but Stephanie did this perfectly.

There was never a dull moment in this book. Filled with action-packed scenes, wonderous world-building, and sensual romantic themes, Caraval was a book that I couldn't put down.

My reaction to all those plot twists be like:

I really enjoyed the writing and pacing as well! Scarlet was an interesting MC, and although I didn't fully agree with her opinions, I understood why she had them. There is a prominent and wholesome "sisterly love" theme to this book, something that I thought was done well (and yes, I have two sisters, so I know the feeling LOL). All the other side characters were equally well-developed. I can't say too much about them without spoiling anything, but trust me, they're awesome!

Get ready for the epic plot twists and an equally exciting plot, enjoy the show, and prepare to be blown away!

“She imagined loving him would feel like falling in love with darkness, frightening and consuming, yet utterly beautiful when the stars came out.”

Pros: cool setting and world-building, exciting plot twists, enchanting romance!

Cons: could improve with in character diversity and representation

Have you read any carnival or circus-themed books? Let me know in the comments down below!

Happy reading!

- Jasleen

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If you liked Caraval, you might like...

• The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

• Six of Crows (Six of Crows #1) by Leigh Bardugo