Legendary (Caraval, #2)

by Stephanie Garber

[Quirky Cat]

Legendary is the second novel in the Caraval series by Stephanie Garber. The second novel follows the other Dragna sister, Donatella, better known as Tella. She's just as good at getting into trouble as her sister. Actually, she's quite a lot better at it. Here she is trying to save her mother, all while surviving to tell the tale. It's no easy task.
If you haven't read the series yet, I strongly recommend that you give it a try, because it has been worth the hype. I only picked up the series recently – the last book coming out motivated me to do so. I wish I had read it sooner though.
I regret not reading this series sooner. I ended up reading both of the first two novels within two days time. I hope that gives you a good idea of how much I ended up enjoying them! So if you've been wavering on picking them up, go for it!


I was surprised by how much I loved Legendary. I'll be honest with you here, during Caraval I didn't like Tella all that much. I wanted to, but it seemed like she put herself (and her sister) in a lot of reckless situations. But Legendary lent a new perspective to her actions. And while she is certainly still reckless, she's also passionate and caring.
I wasn't really sure what to expect with Legendary, to be honest. Part of me was worried that Caraval would turn out to be a one hit wonder. Though I was aware of how well received Legendary was, so I didn't think that was too likely.
What I got from Legendary was more than I could have ever expected. I already mentioned that it made me care for and like Tella, but it further enhanced the danger and intrigue of the world of Caraval.
Stephanie Garber really managed to up the ante in this novel. It truly became a high risk, high reward situation. The reward was obvious; Scarlett and Donatella's mother (as well as Tella surviving the situation, ideally). The risk was much more complex and difficult to suss out. It didn't help that it seemed to constantly get added to throughout the novel. But it did make for a great read.
I particularly enjoyed the introduction of one element, but I don't want to say too much for sake of spoilers. There was one character introduced whom I found to be a fascinating addition to the plot. It increased the intrigue, risk, and complexity.
As for the romantic subplot in this novel...I think it was well done. I can't say that I ship them, but I imagine that's something that'll be addressed with more detail in the next novel. I did enjoy seeing the bits and pieces of Scarlett's romantic subplot though! That was a nice touch.
Stephanie Garber's descriptions of this magical and dangerous world further enhanced it. The lush details of scent and magic made it feel almost real – like it was a world that the reader could almost walk right into (though they'd probably regret that choice, I know).
I know that Caraval ends with the next book, but I really hope (and expect) that Stephanie Garber will continue writing after this. Her writing techniques are excellent, and I'd love to see what she could come up with next.
And now, with no further ado, I'm off to read Finale – because yes, I've enjoyed the series so much that I'm going to read them all at once.


For more reviews check out Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks