Review: Caraval by Stephanie Garber

Collaborative feature with Alexa. We read ARCs together and post our reviews on the same date.

Caraval (#1) by Stephanie Garber
pub 1/31/17 by Flatiron Books
Young Adult - Fantasy
Received ARC at ALAMW16

Plot • Scarlett has been writing to the organizer of Caraval, a unique performance where the audience participates in the show, for years and now that a marriage has been arranged for her, she thinks the chance will never come. But then she gets a once-in-a-lifetime invitation and despite her fear of their cruel father, Scarlett's sister Tella steals her away, with the help of a mysterious sailor, to join the show.

Characters • I related a lot to Scarlett and her need to do the right thing and take care of her sister at all costs. But there's an obvious desire to explore inside of her and games in Caraval bring that out. We don't get to know Tella nearly as well but I want to know more. And don't get me start on the mysterious sailor because well.. I'm sure you can guess.

Writing • The author's words made it easy to imagine the world she created. It's magical, dark and mysterious and so compelling to read about. She did a phenomenal job of describing Caraval and juggling the characters along with the twisted plot that pushed them along.

Overall feelings • It should be on your TBR. Enough said.

What is your favorite film or TV show that features magic? • My answer is so obvious but I don't care – Harry Potter!