Caraval was a magical book that had me intrigued up until the very end. I have a bad habit of figuring plots out early on, and this book very much surprised me in the end. Garber's writing is paced well, her character and scene descriptions pull you into the book, and you don't ever want to leave this beautiful and terrifying world. I am so excited for book 2.

Scarlett has been writing to Legend for years. She dreams of seeing Caraval after hearing stories about it from her grandmother. Scarlett doesn’t have a lot to dream about since she lives with her abusive father and is always protecting her impulsive sister Tella. Her father has arranged a marriage for Scarlett to a count on another island and Scarlett dreams of getting away and taking Tella with her. Then days before her wedding, to a man she has never met and doesn’t even know his name, Scarlett receives invitations to Caraval. Conveniently, Tella has just met a sailor named Julian who is willing to take the sisters to Legend’s island.

Caraval is nothing like Scarlett imagined. She is immediately separated from her sister and stuck with pretending Julian is her fiance. Then she learns that not only is she a special guest of Legend, her sister is part of this year’s game. In order to win the magical wish, the players must locate Tella before the end of the five night game. Scarlett pairs up with Julian and follows the clues given to her by Legend in the hopes that they will lead her to Tella. Of course, along the way she develops feelings for Julian and maybe a backbone of her own.

So world-building is one of the things I find essential when reading fantasy. If you are going to set your story on another world, you better develop that world. Garber barely creates a world and has no consistent rules for that world. Half of what she says is true in the world turns out to be lies and the other half is misty and undefined. She would have been better served setting this story in the real world and focused her attention on creating Caraval. Here is what I know about the world: there are islands, some are conquered, Scarlett lives on a conquered island and her dad is the governor. Legend has an island. There is magic on Legend’s island. Yep, that is about it. Really poor world-building.

Another thing I hate is bad character development. The characters are far from interesting or developed in this book. Scarlett claims to love her sister more than anything, yet spends most of the books swooning over Julian who she has known for literally 5 days! Tella seems to be the most flighty, self-centered creature imaginable but then at the end it turns out she did it all for her sister? Seriously! Then you have Legend who is one of the main characters of the story, but never seen and whose motivations seem to change with the wind. Scarlett’s dad is a villain with no clear motivations except being cruel to his daughters. Then we meet Scarlett’s fiance, who claims to want to protect her but is more than willing to rape her on her father’s orders. Gross!

I knew I wasn’t really into this book when it took me 5 days to read it and when I found myself skimming most of the chapters. It didn’t feel very original or interesting. I couldn’t sink into the story or the characters. Things kept popping up that made me question whether I wanted to really read this book or not. I also left it sit on a shelf for months before even picking it up! I can see why readers may enjoy this book. If they can look beyond the world that doesn’t make sense and the insta-love and the boring characters, they will find a nice, little romance with a bit of magic. For me the inconsistencies and the fact that by the end of the novel everything you thought was true turned out to be lies really turned me off.

I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and the publishers.

This was an immersive reading experience. The writing was beautiful, but occasionally lacking in helpful descriptions regarding the world they're actually living in.

First can we talk about the cover? Gorgeous! I enjoyed this story about sisters. It contained some great twists and turns. Can't wait for the second book!

For years, Scarlett wrote to the infamous Caraval Master Legend in the hopes that he would bring his famed performers to the Isle of Trisda. Their mother had abandoned them, their father had turned cold, and it was their Nana's stories of the magical Caravel that kept Scarlett and her sister, Donatella, amused. Not only that, the tales allowed the girls to dream.

Years passed, though, with no answer from Legend. Escape from Trisda is always on their minds, however, and it seems it will finally come to pass with Scarlett's betrothal. And it's this, that finally prompts a response from Legend. Now, Donatella has gone missing, part of Legend's twisted game, and it's up to Scarlett to follow the clues and find her. Her only hope for saving them both is winning the game, but this game and its players don't play fair or follow the rules.

Oh, Caraval. Stephanie Garber's debut is probably one of the most anticipated of the new year. That anticipation, though, may have been my own downfall in the reading.

Scarlett and her sister have basically been held prisoner by their father since their mother left. And there's been no trace of Paloma in all that time. Their literal only hope for escape is Scarlett's marriage, and the girl is determined not to see it put at risk no matter what. And that includes being put at risk by the one other thing she's always hoped and dreamed for: attending Caraval.

But her stubborn sister has other ideas. So not only are they part of a game, Scarlett fears inevitable repercussions at the hands of her father and the very possible breaking of her betrothal as well. But Scarlett and Tella have only ever had each other, and that bond means that the sisters will do anything for one another.

Caraval is a magical and wonderful and, as Scarlett discovers, terrible place. Held on an island far from her home, the entire landscape is enchanted. The game is played at night and time passes much differently while in the game. Garber's imagery is amazing. The whimsy and sorcery of Caraval is beautifully and horrifically described, coming to life through Garber's narrative and is definitely a highlight of the tale.

Sadly, I wasn't as enchanted by Caraval as I'd expected to be. It's set up with a bit of a cliffhanger ending and some plot elements that aren't fully tied up - in particular, the tunnels that promise madness and the multiple incidents involving a woman in a gray dress that are never really explained - I assume these will be fodder for the next installment. There was also a general feeling while I read that the story dragged a little and should have ended earlier than it actually did.

Scarlett as a lead was enjoyable. Seeing her try to tease out the meaning of the various clues was definitely a highlight - as was her meeting of various side characters (I loved Aiko!). But my biggest issue with the story was Tella. She was so infuriating! At no point did she win me over, unfortunately, and so there was a part of me that really wasn't rooting for Scarlett to win the game in the end!

So while the concept was wonderful and most of the execution fine, this debut was unfortunately missing just a bit of magic for me. The elements I liked in the tale were strong enough to keep me interested and invested. It was really only the end that lost me but I'll likely hop on board with the follow up nonetheless.

Reviewed at https://yabibliophile.com/2017/01/caraval.html on 1/26/17

I had so much fun listening to/reading this book! When I heard about it at BEA I knew I needed to read it. Then I actually got to meet Stephanie Garber and I wanted the book even more. I couldn’t get my hands on a copy then but thankfully I was able to snag an e-galley and an advanced file of the audiobook for review!

My favorite aspect of Caraval was Stephanie Garber’s writing style. Her imagery is simply gorgeous. It painted such a clear picture of the people, sights, and oddities described. The magic of the story felt that much more real thanks to the beautiful writing. Everything just came alive.

Scarlett was an interesting character to follow. Her life has been weird mix of being sheltered in many ways yet being forced to grow up too fast in others. The one thing she knows is that she would do anything to protect her sister, Tella. When she gets to Caraval and is separated from Tella everything starts unraveling for her. She does her best but is soon caught up in a much darker game than she ever imagined. I have to admit… there were times she drove me crazy with her naivete. However, it makes so much sense with her background and the type of person she is. She really grows throughout the Craval experience.

Julian was one of my favorite characters. I loved trying to figure him out! He’s all beautiful and mysterious and exactly the kind of guy that’s fun to read about! I so enjoyed the way he interacted with Scarlett. Their verbal sparring was a highlight of any scene they have together.

Caraval is s delight. If you like your whimsy with a side of darkness you cannot miss it.

Audiobook Notes:

Rebecca Soler narrates this one and that was all I needed to know! I loved her narration of Cinder and couldn’t wait to listen to Caraval. I listened to a little over half via audiobook and loved it. The only think that kept me from doing the whole thing on audio was a technical problem.

I don't feel like this book had anything particularly new to say. Though it was hiding behind purple prose, the story itself is littered with cliches and tropes. Scarlet, our main character, is oddly trusting and becomes incredibly bland to read about as the plot unfolds. Though the attempts to be like The Night Circus were clearly present, it lacked all the magical realism and setting that made that book wonderful.

I was super stoked when I was approved for Caraval on NetGalley. Like jumping up and down excited because I had a strong feeling this was going to be an epically awesome story, and my instincts were right. As a matter of fact, when I was 20% into the book, I loved it so much I went to the store and bought a copy.

I was entranced by Caraval just as the main characters Scarlett and her sister Tella were in the book. The rich, well developed world building made me feel like I was really there, experiencing the game along with Scarlett. It's a magical place where nothing is as it seems. How can I tell you how spectacular this novel is?? I'm trying to describe it but am failing miserably. You'll have to read it. Please, I beg of you.

Caraval is a debut novel with incredible writing, and I have a feeling there will be more to come, not just from Stephanie Garber but also from the world of Caraval. I'm looking forward to every future word.

There are very few first-in-series, debut books that come out that are able to capture your attention from the beginning to end. It’s even harder to know that you will be a hardcore champion for this book and author no matter what. Well, guess what? I have found such a gem in Stephanie Garber’s CARAVAL. This book is seriously one of the most magical books I have read. I hardly remember the last time I felt so giddy and wanted to believe in this magic, but I do recall such feelings when I first read the Harry Potter series. That’s right! I am equating the magic I feel from Harry Potter to this wonderfully pieced book.

I will admit that I was outrageously confused by the time I read the last page, but it was the type of confusion that I didn’t care to be upset with because it was SO good. I imagine that there is some kind of mystery that Garber wanted her readers to keep with them. I mean, there are so many unanswered questions after all.

CARAVAL is definitely ALICE IN WONDERLAND meets THE NIGHT CIRCUS. Even now as I type, I don’t even know how to put into words how much I loved this book. I suppose it’s easiest to start with the writing. Oh my god, I have read so few books that make things so tangible to me. When Scarlett talks about colors, emotions, people, everything, Garber captures everything in its very essence and matches it perfectly. You know that question of, “How do you describe [color] to someone who is blind?” Read them the descriptions in this book and I promise you that they’ll know exactly what it must look like. The language use is beyond dreamy and makes me crave more. One of my favorite scenes was a very sultry and seductive one. Do you know the scene in Ratatouille where Remy is talking to his brother about how food affects the senses? This is totally how I felt when CERTAIN STEAMY KISSES AND LIFE FORCES were being exchanged. Like little pops of color and sparks and someone throwing gauzy organza and silk on me while warmth and colors swarm my thoughts. Does that make sense? I don’t know.

I loved the characters 100%. I was so scared that they were going to go downhill and become incredibly predictable. There were some instances where the character relationships were predictable, but it was so enjoyable because those characters were well written. I am mad for Julian. I didn’t quite like him at first, but then he quickly grew on me and I was so smitten for him and all the revelations and realizations that Scarlett found out throughout the book about him. By the end, I just wanted to hug him tightly and give him a deliciously baked cookie that was crunchy on the outside and gooey in the middle. He was definitely one of the most tragic characters I’ve read in a while.

I was rooting for Scarlett the whole way through. It’s rare that an author can make a selfless character so…UNANNOYING because you assume that whomever or whatever makes them selfless becomes their identity. I can justly say that her selflessness does not define her. She is strong and brave and such a wonderful heroine to add to ones like Mare Barrow, Laia of Serra, Inej Ghafa, and so many more that are great role models for young girls and boys. Sure, she may not be nifty with a dagger or exert some superhuman ability, but she’s one of those wonderful characters that is comparable because of who she’s is. I just love her to bits and I really loved how she interacted with characters (especially Julian and Tella!)

And surprisingly, I even loved Tella. I thought I would find her so annoying and shallow and want to punch her, but she was definitely a surprise. I loved that she had these nuances about her that gave her so many layers. I have a feeling, from the last chapter, that we will see much more of her in the next book and I look forward to finding out more about her.

I want to know more about this Legend fellow, which again, like Tella, I imagine I’ll find out more about later on. He’s still this whole character that I cannot wrap my thoughts around because he’s so…OVER THERE and not here with the other characters. The fantasy of him and of Caraval are so intangible to me – like he is some character that I cannot genuinely reach or understand.

I think what I need to say is that I want MORE. I hate/love that I got to read this early, but I HATE that I have to wait longer than those that will be able to get finished copies in their hands. You will not be disappointed by this story, I promise you.

Give CARAVAL the chance you want to give it and give it your highest expectations because it will go beyond them.

Creepy, magical, and romantic! This is the ultimate teen read for people looking for a fun summer book.

This was a beautiful and mysterious story. It wasn't like a fairytale. It brings to mind the old movie Labyrinth with David Bowie. The story doesn't really have much similarity, it just had the same feel to it for me. Of course, no muppet characters. All characters were much more sinister. Just strange and beautiful. This book has an interesting romance and the story ends, yet it doesn't end. It sets up for another story to follow. I will be aching to read the next book. I am assuming it will be a long wait. I will recommend this book. I am pretty sure the guys won't like it but the I am sure the teen girls will.

I thought this was a really clever story. I enjoyed the dynamic between the characters and descriptive writing. A little magic, a little romance, and a lot of mystery kept me engaged throughout the entire story.

There is something about Garber's writing that will make readers sit up and take notice. It draws you in and keeps you immersed in the world she created... and what a magical world it was! I pretty much fell for the writing. So easy to read and digest that you won't be confused at all. The only confusion readers will have is what the Game is really about! For me, I had the most fun trying NOT to decipher every single little sentence or action.. Instead, I sat back down and just let the story unfold and it did just that. The book reads more like a magic story complete with a twisty and turny plot. Add in a sisterly bond that could withstand anything you can throw at it, and you'll have this story.

I love the world and how Garber executed it. Got reminded of Alice in the Wonderland in the beginning, so I wasn't sure if it was supposed to be a retelling. The Game really does sound like a challenge to play, but it also sounds super dangerous. I love the random side characters that popped up and either helped or deterred our main character in some where way. Was not a fan of the romance, because I found it too be too quick and cheesy at times. I didn't really find their chemistry to be genuine, but I think that's just me since so many others loved it. The sisterly bond that was mentioned in the blurb wasn't as strong as I thought it would be.

Gather one and all and experience the magical game of Caraval where every challenge will test your wit and your courage. You'll gobble this one up, I assure you. I still have the lovely setting in my mind where everything feels like a dream.

RATING 4/5

4.5 Stars for Caraval! This is an exciting fantasy debut from author Stephanie Garber. I loved this!

I’ve seen Caraval mentioned on a lot of blogs last year so I was curious to find out what the hype was. I was drawn in from the first chapter and I could not put this book down. This book deserves all the attention it is getting and everyone should read this!

What did I like?

-Right away I felt a connection with the sisters, Scarlet and Tella. After their mother abandoned them Scarlet took on the older sister role seriously and raised her younger sister Tella. This was difficult since Tella was often reckless and often breaking their father’s strict rules. Breaking his rules often led to physical punishment, which Scarlet often received to protect her sister. It was awful to see the abuse the girls had to endure so I was cheering them on to run for safety.
-The world of Caraval is magical! The title appears to be a circus or carnival themed book but in fact Caraval is a mysterious island. All the details were unique and enchanting. The island is a game so the clues are creative and everything had a touch of magic. From Scarlet’s gown magically changing to match her mood to the price she had to pay to purchase items (I don’t want to spoil it), I was blown away with the author’s imagination.
-The story has so many twists to it I was guessing all the way to the end. This book is not just about the game but about taking chances. Scarlet has always been protective of her sister and made safe choices. On the island the obvious choice is not always the right one, so it was good to see Scarlet learn to take a chance and gain confidence to protect herself and her sister. There is a romance that was surprising but not the focus of the story. This was good because I wanted Scarlet to be independent, since she spent so many years fearful of her father.


What didn’t I like?

-At first I didn’t like Tella. I thought she was a spoiled brat and caused too many problems for Scarlet. But she does redeem herself at the end.


Caraval is a fun adventure and I highly recommend this book. I can’t wait to read the next book.

((Due to technical difficulties, I was unable to view this galley. Sorry!)

In the game of Caraval, the players can’t always believe what they see. Part circus, part magic, part puzzle, the eponymous game from the debut novel by Stephanie Garber immerses the players in a surreal fantasy world, where they compete for a chance to win one thing: a wish granted by the mysterious Master Legend.

Scarlett has always wanted to go to Caraval. Year after year, she has written letters to Master Legend, with no response until now. In a novel that takes its readers through twists and turns, magic and mayhem, love and sisterhood are forefront.

I highly recommend this novel for anyone wishing for something new or out of the box. It was one of the best, most original YAs that I have read in a long time. Kudos to Ms. Garber.

Caraval is the first book in the Caraval series by Stephanie Garber. From the very beginning, I was completely pulled into Scarlett's life. This world was quirky, and strange, and felt a bit like a circus and Wonderland only better with its mystery, lies, danger, romance and how all those things are woven together to make something completely impossible, yet completely believable in such a strange and magical way. You seriously don't know who to trust, or what is real. There was no down time. If things seem calm in a moment, just know something is about to happen. The mystery behind Caraval and it's characters is completely intoxicating. I can't think of a better word to describe this reading experience. I know it's a little early in the year to start talking about favorite books, but I don't see how it can get much better than this.

I was unable to download this title so I am unable to review it or remove it from my shelf.

Magical and mysterious, a must read if you loved THE NIGHT CIRCUS. Can't wait for the next book!