Caraval (Caraval, #1)

by Stephanie Garber

[Quirky Cat]

Caraval is the first novel in a series of the same name by Stephanie Garber. The series follows two sisters, Scarlett and Donatella (aka Tella) and their adventures (and dangers) in a magical carnival run by the fabled man himself, Legend.
Of course, nothing is ever what it seems in this world, and it is full of dangers. But compared to the dangers that they are running from, it certainly seems like it is worth the risk. All they have to do is win, and they'll earn themselves a wish.
I'm so behind in reading this series, and having finally read it, I really regret that it took me so long. But at least I can tell you that it was worth the wait, and that it held up against all the talk and hype about it. And on the bright side, I can binge the whole series at once, which is a plus.


Warnings: There are a lot of heavy tones in this series. Like any world that covers the darker side of magic, there's murder, suicide, and all sorts of dangers. A lot of this is told second hand, but it still occurs. There's also abuse and kidnapping. The abuse is probably the most detailed out of the things I've mentioned.
I've heard a lot about Caraval since it came out, and I can honestly say that it lived up to the hype. That was no easy task, considering some of the positive reviews out there! I found Caraval to be an enjoyable read, and one that was extremely difficult to put down.
I found myself immediately connecting to Scarlett and her desperate (and constant) attempt to save and protect her sister, Donatella (better known as Tella). It was sweet and compelling, while also showing the passion and steel within her character.
The world these two get thrown into...it's amazing. It's as deadly as it is beautiful, with twists and turns that those unused to magic would have trouble predicting. So to say that they were in over their heads would be putting it mildly. But it did make an interesting story for us readers!
The romantic subplot was a nice touch as well, not only because it was emotionally compelling (and confusing at times) but because it added to the complexity of the plot. That it put the main character into an even more confusing situation only added to the main plot.
I loved so much of this. From the imagery to the situation the sisters were in, as well as Legend himself and many of the secondary characters. The style was just amazing, and exactly what I was looking/hoping for.
I've read a few books that tried to hit the tone this story did, only to fail. Caraval is unique in that it really did feel wondrous and magical, as well as terrifying and lethal. That's a hard balance to find, but the series seems to have done it.
I don't normally find myself wishing for a movie adaptation for a novel (because they are so frequently butchered), but I would absolutely love to see what a creative (and faithful) director could do with this series.
I am so happy that I finally sat down and read Caraval. And I'm even happier that it held up. I can also tell you with complete honesty that the second I finish writing this review I'm going to sit down and read Legendary. Wish me luck!


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