---

Publication Date: January 31, 2017
Publisher: Flatiron Books
Series: Caraval #1
No. of Pages: 407 pages

---

R E V I E W

WARNING: This review may contain spoilers.

Welcome, welcome bookish people. Caraval is indeed a magical world (and game) where the twist of fate revolves around Scarlett and Donatella Dragna.

First of all, the book cover is so attractive which can captivate you into reading it. From the cover down to the plot, Caraval is truly enchanting and magical but also very dangerous! I truly appreciate how the clues and secrets are scattered everywhere until it gets more twisted as it goes (at least for me).

The writing is really good that I often forget (while reading) that this is Garber’s debut novel! The sisterhood on this book is so strong and uplifting because we don’t often see those kind of relationship from other books. Aside from that, I love how the character of Scarlett transforms throughout the book — from a ‘full of doubts and fears’ individual into someone who is resilient and capable. The fact that Scarlett is so unstoppable and will do anything to find Donatella is undeniably inspiring. Donatella’s recklessness have somewhat annoyed me but in the end, Garber gives as a glimpse of Donatella’s own way of expressing her love for her sister.

Garber exemplifies each character which make them entrancing and unique specifically Julian. As you read on throughout the book, you’ll understand why Julian is my favorite character. Don’t let your imagination deceive you!

There is a minimal ‘lack’ in the concept of world-building. Yes, it was magical and all but I somehow find myself lost in the game and the world itself.

Other than that, I was a bit unsatisfied because I don’t get to see much from Donatella’s point of view. 

Lastly, the ending is definitely a cliffhanger for me. I want to know more about the true deal between Legend and Donatella. There are a lot of positive reviews about this novel and there are also negative reviews as well. Nevertheless, I thoroughly enjoyed and liked Caraval!

★★★★☆

F A V O R I T E    L I N E S

“The future knows what things we desire, unless there is something greater in our path that chases us away.”

“Even if we don’t lie to others, we often lie to ourselves. And the word good means different things to different people.”

“Do you always focus on what you’re giving up, rather than what you’ll be gaining? Some things are worth pursuit regardless of the cost.”

S Y N O P S I S 

Remember, it’s only a game…

Scarlett Dragna has never left the tiny island where she and her sister, Tella, live with their powerful, and cruel, father. Now Scarlett’s father has arranged a marriage for her, and Scarlett thinks her dreams of seeing Caraval—the faraway, once-a-year performance where the audience participates in the show—are over.

But this year, Scarlett’s long-dreamt-of invitation finally arrives. With the help of a mysterious sailor, Tella whisks Scarlett away to the show. Only, as soon as they arrive, Tella is kidnapped by Caraval’s mastermind organizer, Legend. It turns out that this season’s Caraval revolves around Tella, and whoever finds her first is the winner.

Scarlett has been told that everything that happens during Caraval is only an elaborate performance. Nevertheless, she becomes enmeshed in a game of love, heartbreak, and magic. 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…beware of getting swept too far away.

L E T ‘ S   C H A T !

Have you read Caraval? What are your thoughts about it?

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | Goodreads | Bloglovin’ | Support Me