Caraval is about the protagonist, Scarlett, who feels she has no choices in her life as she is going to be forced into an arranged marriage by her controlling and abusive father. Ever since her grandmother told her stories about her visits to Caraval, Scarlett had always dreamed of going and would frequently write letters to Legend, the game master, in hopes of receiving a ticket. A few days before Scarlett’s arranged marriage, Scarlett stumbles upon tickets to Caraval only after signing her full name in a recent letter to Legend. Caraval is a magical night circus that only guests of Legend can attend (guests will either spectate or play) for a chance to win a particular prize (this year's prize is a wish). There is no currency in the game and instead, you pay for items by revealing secrets about yourself. All players are warned before the game to remember that, “it’s only a game” although Scarlett finds this to be untrue as irreversible payments are made. Scarlett wonders if going to Caraval will truly help solve her problems. Through the curiosity and stubbornness of her sister, Donatella, Scarlett unexpectedly ventures into Caraval with a sketchy sailor boy, Julian. Donatella is kidnapped by the game master for the game. Scarlett and Julian are forced to follow clues and give away secrets hastily in order to find Scarlett’s sister before another player does. Scarlett must make decisions that are either for the best or for the worst and try not to lose her sanity along the way as she explores Caraval and all its secrets. This book was one of the best books I’ve read! The author does a great job of utilizing different types of figurative language throughout the novel and bringing her story to life! This book is easy to follow (especially considering the nonsensical aspects of the book) and extremely interesting. There were scenes in the book that had me yelling at the characters while some had me reading furiously! If you like fantasy and mystery books, this book is for you! Keep in mind: there are some gore scenes and scenes having to do with murder and suicide which is not for everyone. Overall this fantasy/ mystery/ adventure/ romance book was a great read!
Word count: 378
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