Only a few book series have achieved Caraval’s status with its high-end fantasy elements, fierce characters, magical plot, and dramatic dialogues. It is one series that continue to affect the readers like no other. 

Caraval is a YA Fantasy trilogy whose first part was released in 2016 by Stephanie Garber. Right from the time it was introduced, fans were excited by the magical premise and the promising Arc reviews. Only some novels can turn words into a magical imagination in our minds. Caraval, at least the first part, makes it happen. 

The Plot

The book takes the reader on a journey from a small island to the enchanted place of Caraval, a circus where performances, competition, and secrets go hand in hand. 

The story is of two sisters on their quest to see this one-in-lifetime place that is Caraval, but once they reach there, one goes missing, and the other makes the path to find her sister.

The Characters

The main characters in this part of the trilogy are all interesting, true to themselves, and afraid yet amazed by this spellbinding traveling circus filled with unbelievable things. 

Important characters of Caraval

• Scarlett: Our main female lead who has written to Legend, the main magician of Caravel, since she was a child. She wants to see Caraval before getting married but thought this year it would be based on something other than her family.

• Tella: Scarlett’s fierce sister who wants to run away from home as soon as she can. Though her personality is very different from her sister, she joins Scarlet on her adventure, but things don’t go as smoothly as she thought.

• Julian: Julian accompanies Scarlett on her mysterious journey. With smart wit and a strong mindset, he certainly possesses all the qualities fantasy readers admire in their Male leads. 

• Legend: Perhaps the book’s most intriguing and mysterious character since he is said to be the most powerful magician ever. He is the puppeteer who holds the power in the game of Caraval. 

Pros of the novel

The story: Just the thought of a mysterious traveling circus that is supposed to be out of this world is enough to make fantasy readers interested. Few books are tackling this subject, which makes it unique. The descriptions and places are the biggest strength of the book. 

The writing: The author needs to try harder to make the world of Caravel exciting. No, all the words and dialogues are smooth and relatable to each character’s situation.

The ending: It is always an important decision for Stephanie Garber on how to end their novel. Though I thought the last 20% of the book was slow, the book came back with exciting twists. There is just enough intrigue for the reader to pick up the next book in the series, Legendary.