Book Review, Fantasy, YA

Caraval by Stephanie Garber

Roll up, Roll up Come one Come all to the wonderful world of the Caraval. 

Caraval is a magical place that Stephanie Garber has created and invited us in. The story follows Scarlett and Tella, two sister that have never left their home Isle of Trisda. Scarlett has been writing to the Caraval for years as she wishes to see the magic, mystery and adventure for her sister and herself. Scarlett had given up hope of ever see the Caraval when she receives an invitation to the mastermind behind Caraval Legend island to the once a year week-long performance.  Her dream becomes a nightmare when Scarlett sister Tella is kidnapped by Legend, she has to find Tella before the game is over and she disappears forever. The problem that Scarlett has is that she has been told that Caraval is just an elaborate performance, but she comes to realise that playing this game maybe more dangerous that she would have ever thought. 

We see the Caraval from Scarlett point of view and we are drawn into the game with her.  As Scarlett is trying to figure out what can and can not be trusted we the reader are their right along with her. When you think you can see what is happening something changes and keeps you griped in the book. 

Sometimes I do wish that Scarlett would be more confident, but it is understandable from upbringing why she questions herself and her decisions.  I do find her love and commitment to her sister commendable, I just found it hard connect to Tella.

I enjoyed this book, it was full of magic, mystery and adventure as advertised, what I didn’t expect was the emotional rollercoaster that I went on.

I am glad to find out that their will be a second book in 2018, as even though this game has ended it feels like another one is about to begin.

I give this book 4 out of 5.

🤓 🤓 🤓 🤓

Thanks for reading.

Gem x