“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.”
Ever since Scarlett was a child, she had dreamed of going to Caraval. The fair is famous for its magic and mystery. Despite writing numerous letters to the game’s master, Legend, he had yet to send her tickets. Until this year. The only problem is that Scarlett lives on an island with her abusive father who will never let her or her sister leave. And she is supposed to be married off to a Count in just a few days. Even if she does go, will she be able to survive Caraval’s tricks and mind games?
I devoured this book, staying up until 4:30 in the morning to read it. The world building was so fantastical, I lost myself in Caraval and was left in shock when I ran out of books of this series to read. How lucky are these characters to live in this world? I’m jealous. Caraval kept me guessing; the plot twists made me dizzy. I can’t even remember anything about the day I read this book other than the reading. Part of me still feels stuck there.
The main character, however, wasn’t quite so perfect. Don’t get me wrong - I love Scarlett, but did she really need a man? She seemed so desperate for love and sometimes too unrealistically naive. At the same time, I did really enjoy reading about her and her love interest’s relationship, even if it was a weird sort of instalove (but thank goodness it was only a subplot!) These problems were very minor. Don’t let it dissuade you from reading Caraval! I’d recommend this book for anyone. Literally anyone.