Teen Review: Caraval

Caravel by Stephanie Garber is an enchanting fantasy novel that immerses you in a story that blurs the lines between illusion and reality, both constantly shifting. The plot follows Scarlett Dragna, whose dream since childhood was to attend Caraval- the most magical performance where the audience is a part of the game. When Scarlett and her sister Donatella are invited to play, their adventure quickly turns sour after the kidnapping of Tella. Scarlett must muster up all her wit and critical thinking to navigate through this dazzling yet very dangerous game where nothing is as it seems, and every choice comes with a prize. Through her adventures she discovers the only way to save her sister is by winning Caraval. It is said that “seeing is believing”, but sometimes not seeing is believing. Determined to find her sister, Scarlet must face a world filled with layered secrets, romance, deceit, and cunning twists. Garber's lush, vibrant, writing is so wonderfully descriptive and imaginative that you’ll feel as if you too have been invited to play this devastating game.  

Garber's ability to write such engaging and detailed descriptions is what will make you want to hold onto this world forever; she creates a passionately colourful world that truly is full of all kinds of magic. I’d recommend this book to lovers of fantasy, riddles, puzzles, suspense, and romance. At times, it may be difficult to discern what is real from what’s illusion causing confusion due to its extensive dreamlike plot.  

5/5 Stars! As a mature reader, this still remains as one of my most enjoyable reads that had me captivated throughout the entirety!