Caraval
And whether Caraval is real or not, Scarlett must find Tella before the five nights of the game are over or a dangerous domino effect of consequences will be set off, and her beloved sister will disappear forever.
“Welcome, welcome to Caraval! But before you fully enter into our world, you must remember it’s all a game.”
First impressions: “A Ticket to Wonder”
I was so excited to read Caraval that when I finally got the chance, it felt like fate. Hearing so many great things about this book made me eager to dive in, and the moment I entered its world, I was completely captivated. Stephanie Garber does an incredible job of drawing readers in immediately, creating a story so immersive that putting it down feels impossible. And for me, I really didn’t put this book down for anything. I loved it so much that this review comes after my second reread—definitely a testament to how unforgettable this book is. While it’s not my all-time favorite, Caraval easily ranks high on my list.
“Every person has the power to change their fate if they are brave enough to fight for what they desire more than anything.”
The Story: “The Game Begins”
Caraval has a beautifully captivating story that keeps you guessing at every turn. The mystery surrounding Legend and his once-a-year performance is irresistible, and your interest is kept piqued the entire time. The line between illusion and reality adds constant suspense, and as Scarlett and Julian uncover clues, you feel alongside them, trying to decipher the truth. Garber’s prose is vivid and full of imagery, making the world of Caraval feel tangible and alive. Her attention to detail and expert world-building immerse readers in the magical world that unfolds beautifully right before their eyes.
“She imagined loving him would feel like falling in love with darkness, frightening and consuming yet utterly beautiful when the stars came out.”
A Love Story: “Enemies, Allies, Lovers”
Scarlett and Julian’s relationship was a standout feature of the story to me from the very beginning. Their slow-burning romance begins with mistrust and tension, as Scarlett doesn’t quite know whether to trust Julien. This made the eventual moments of their connection all the more electric. Watching them navigate challenges and uncover their feelings is both thrilling and heartwarming. Their dynamic is perfectly balanced, and their flirty banter was enough for me to root for them until the end. I can’t wait to see how their relationship develops further in the series (it better be a happy ending!)
“It’s better this way, sister. There’s more to life than staying safe.”
The Characters: Beautifully Enchanting
While Scarlett and Julien’s relationship was beautifully written, their characters were just as perfect. Scarlett was a deeply compelling protagonist, full of backstory and emotional depth. Her relatable vulnerability allowed you to feel every single emotion along with her, and throughout the story, she experienced a wide range of emotions. Julien was the perfect mixture of mystery and wonder, and your love for him only continued to grow throughout the story. Another fantastic character was Tella, and she and Scarlett were so drastically different that their sisterhood bond worked so well. I was delighted to see sisterly love as the main focus of the story, if not the one and only focus. Their bond is filled with commitment and unconditional love for each other, and I think one of the reasons I felt so connected to them was that, in some ways, they reminded me of my sister and me. This made it feel that much more sincere and meaningful, and their journey felt even more engaging.
“Some things are worth pursuit regardless of the cost.”
Final Thoughts: “Until the Next Show”
Stephanie Garber is truly a masterful storyteller. Caraval is the perfect introduction to fantasy for new readers, and an exciting, immersive experience for seasoned fans of the genre. The story is suspenseful yet easy to follow, the characters are unforgettable, and the world-building is nothing short of magical. I can’t wait to continue the series and highly recommend this book to anyone seeking an enchanting, unforgettable read.