Remember, it’s only a game…
Scarlett Dragna has never left the tiny island where she and her sister, Tella, live with their powerful, and cruel, father. Now Scarlett’s father has arranged a marriage for her, and Scarlett thinks her dreams of seeing Caraval—the faraway, once-a-year performance where the audience participates in the show—are over.
But this year, Scarlett’s long-dreamt-of invitation finally arrives. With the help of a mysterious sailor, Tella whisks Scarlett away to the show. Only, as soon as they arrive, Tella is kidnapped by Caraval’s mastermind organizer, Legend. It turns out that this season’s Caraval revolves around Tella, and whoever finds her first is the winner.
Scarlett has been told that everything that happens during Caraval is only an elaborate performance. Nevertheless, she becomes enmeshed in a game of love, heartbreak, and magic. And whether Caraval is real or not, Scarlett must find Tella before the five nights of the game are over or a dangerous domino effect of consequences will be set off, and her beloved sister will disappear forever. (Goodreads)
This is my second time reading this book and I was worried that it was better in my memory. But I was wrong, It was just as good as I remember. I loved that Scarlett had to break out of her very risk averse shell to save her sister. I also love Julian. He is a great match for Scarlett there to protect her but also push her.
The world building was great. The world of Caraval is presented to well I’d plan a trip right now! I also love how the mysteries of Caraval were woven into the story itself. I would have liked a little more history personally, but it probably wasn’t necessary for the story. It proply is left a little vague if only to keep the mystery of Caraval alive.
Overall Rating: 4.5
Great review! I liked that this book was a reminder that YA can still be interesting, without being 700 pages full of intense detail. I thought Caraval was fun!
I agree! And very well written! And you’re right not 700 pages