Caraval by Stephanie Garber

Caraval (Caraval, #1)

by Stephanie Garber

Welcome to Caraval, where nothing is quite what it seems...

'If you ever wondered how it would feel to step into a dream, here's your ticket' - Stacey Lee

Scarlett has never left the tiny isle of Trisda, pining from afar for the wonder of Caraval, a once-a-year week-long performance where the audience participates in the show.

Caraval is Magic. Mystery. Adventure. And for Scarlett and her beloved sister Tella it represents freedom and an escape from their ruthless, abusive father.

When the sisters' long-awaited invitations to Caraval finally arrive, it seems their dreams have come true. But no sooner have they arrived than Tella vanishes, kidnapped by the show's mastermind organiser, Legend.

Scarlett has been told that everything that happens during Caraval is only an elaborate performance. But nonetheless she quickly becomes enmeshed in a dangerous game of love, magic and heartbreak. And real or not, she must find Tella before the game is over, and her sister disappears forever.

A mesmerising, magical and stunningly imaginative debut novel for anyone who loved The Night Circus.

Reviewed by Kelly on

5 of 5 stars

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On the conquered Isle of Trisda, siblings Scarlett and Donatella live under the oppressive rule of their father, a callous man who has betrothed Scarlett in order to keep her complacent. Scarlett is aware that her only escape is to become a bride, until an invitation arrives from the Master Legend, inviting Scarlett and Donatella to his island to participate in Caraval. Scarlett and Donatella have a turbulent relationship, although care for one another deeply. Their father cruelty contends his daughters against one another, often abusive and suppressing their freedom. After deliberation, the siblings are assisted by Julian on their journey to the island of Caraval, where Donatella is taken hostage under the guise of entertainment and the game has already begun.

I enjoyed the slow progression of the tentative friendship between Scarlett and sailor Julian, despite Julian's secrecy and Scarlett's reluctance to compromise. What emerges is a slow burning and sultry romance. Sexy, sexy romance. Scarlett is feisty and often judgmental but ultimately yearns for freedom, especially for sister Donatella. Julian's character is enigmatic and an opportunist but to find Donatella, Scarlett must place her faith in Julian's ability to navigate Caraval.
Every person has the power to change their fate if they are brave enough to fight for what they desire more than anything.

Scarlett is betrothed to a man only known through his penmanship, torn between her developing attraction for the arrogant and flirtatious sailor while anxious not to anger her quick tempered father. He's incredibly violent and rather than punish Scarlett, he will physically assault Donatella and Scarlett is determined to protect her sister.

One of the loveliest aspects of Caraval is the atmospheric beauty. Lyrical and exquisite, I was enamored by De Los Sueños, the private island where Caraval is held while shrouded in magic and an enchanting illusion of adventure. Beneath the surface, the island threatens to expose the sinister nature of Caraval. Deliciously dark, the world building is breathtaking, mature and refined.
Whatever you've heard about Caraval, it doesn't compare to the reality. It's more than just a game or performance. It's the closest you'll ever find yourself magic in this world.

Reminiscent of the lyricism of Laini Taylor, Stephanie Garber's debut made my heart flutter with delight. Caraval is wonderfully atmospheric, beautifully lyrical and an absolute pleasure to have immersed myself within the pages.

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 4 January, 2017: Finished reading
  • 4 January, 2017: Reviewed