Caraval (Caraval Book 1)
by Stephanie Garber
REVIEW POSTED ONLINE: APR 15, 2025
Scarlett's only hope of freeing her and her sister from her father's abuse is to agree to an arranged marriage. Days before the wedding, the impossible happens and an invitation comes to attend the exclusive magical game called Caraval. Scarlett is reluctant to risk her one chance of escape, but her sister forces her hand and in a twist of fate Tella ends up being the final object to find. Scarlett must play the game in order to find her sister and leave in time to make it back to her wedding.
AUTHOR: Stephanie Garber
GENRES: Romantic Fantasy, Young Adult
CATEGORIES: One Bed, Competition, Arranged Marriage
REVIEW
What I Liked:The ending was probably my favorite part when the reader finds out what was real, what was a lie, and what was a manipulation. My mind was blown. There was no way I could have predicted where the story went.
What Bothered Me:If I had been manipulated so much by those that I loved, it would probably take me at least a decade to forgive them.
Overall:If you like Young Adult fantasy where nothing is as it seems and you're constantly guessing at how things will wrap up and character's true motivations, you should check out Caraval.
The Last Word:
I just finished Finale, the third book in the trilogy and overall I think it's a good young adult romantic fantasy series. The release of new truths and the slow reveal of the real villain and the extent of what's at stake keeps the story interesting and suspenseful. Fair warning, there are multiple love interests for Scarlet and her sister Donatella.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
Heat Index: 🔥 (1/5)