From the Bookshelf of YAholics Anonymous!…

Caraval (Caraval, #1)

Stephanie Garber

Start date: January 6, 2018

Finish date: January 31, 2018

Discussion: Group Read

Why we're reading this: BoTM, YA Sci Fy Fiction
[close] BoTM, YA Sci Fy Fiction

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Group Read

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What Members Thought

Oct 26, 2016 Kyle rated it did not like it

Shelves: ya, worst-of-the-worst, sf-fantasy

Alright, I seem to be ~~the sole dissenter~~ one of the proud minority who loathe this book (had to update this part, because when I first reviewed this, I saw no other negative and/or 1-star reviews, which, of course, there are now many) among all the glowing five-star reviews, so I'll do my best to provide my highly unpopular opinion as to why this book is unworthy of all the praise.

First things first, the map at the beginning... where most books that have a map of a land or town or world serve to ...more

121 likes · Like · see review

Feb 26, 2017 Amber rated it it was amazing

OMG I NEED THE NEXT ONE RIGHT NOW

10 likes · Like · see review

Nov 22, 2017 Chelsea rated it really liked it

Shelves: favorites

I didn't know what to expect from Caraval because I had never read another book quite like it, and it was everything that I could have wished for it to be. Caraval had me on the edge of my seat as I sped through this book until I turned the very last page - leaving me wanting the next book to read immediately. It was full of excitement, magic, romance, and plot twists.

The descriptions in the book made the story come alive - I felt like I was right there with Scarlett in the world of Caraval. It I didn't know what to expect from Caraval because I had never read another book quite like it, and it was everything that I could have wished for it to be. Caraval had me on the edge of my seat as I sped through this book until I turned the very last page - leaving me wanting the next book to read immediately. It was full of excitement, magic, romance, and plot twists.

The descriptions in the book made the story come alive - I felt like I was right there with Scarlett in the world of Caraval. It was hard not to be caught up in the world that Stephanie Garber had created - and it was hard to leave that world once I was in it.

Scarlett was such an amazing character - it was great to see her grow and change throughout the novel. Everything she goes through impacts her character, and you see that as you read through the story. And I feel like her growth wouldn't have been there without Julian.

Julian was probably my favorite character in the book. He is absolutely wonderful, and not everything that you expect him to be. Which is perfect because I feel he stands out as a character compared to many other male leads. He's a complete mystery, and I loved getting to know him as the story progressed.

I liked Tella - and I liked the little you get to see of her relationship with Scarlett, and of her as a character. I cannot wait to see what lies ahead for her in the coming book - and I hope that I like where her story leads her as much as I did with Scarlett's story (although Tessa does play a huge role in Caraval).

I also really liked the concept of Legend, but at the same time, I am a little disappointed that I didn't find out more about him. Although, I'm hoping that the next book will answer all questions surrounding who he is.

Remember, it’s only a game. I can say that the way this story was written that I completely felt like Scarlett - I didn't know what was real and what was only a game, and the plot twists added to that mystery and intrigue, and kept me guessing until the very end.

I would highly recommend, especially if you are a fan of fantasy. It is definitely worth picking up if you are even slightly interested. ...more

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Jun 06, 2018 Grace rated it really liked it

Shelves: audio, reread

AFTER MY FIRST READ:

This was really good! It definitely deserves more than 3 stars, but it wasn't quite a 4-star book for me. 3.5-3.7 for me. I thought it was really well done and super interesting and creative, but it didn't blow my mind. I understand the hype though because it was so unique and intriguing!

AFTER MY SECOND READ:

I did my reread via audio and bumped it from 3 stars to 4! It's just so good! ...more

1 like · Like · see review

Jan 09, 2019 priya rated it liked it

the setting and plot were so intriguing, but the characters were bland at best and annoyingly shit at worst

i mean tella seems wonderful so i am excited for book 2 (since it’s in her pov) because better lead characters combined with this amazing world seems like actual magic

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Feb 03, 2017 Kathleen rated it it was amazing

Shelves: faves

There is really nothing quite like this book.. The wonder and magic it brings just makes me so happy every time! Scarlett and Julian also just make my heart swoon 😍

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Jan 07, 2017 Racquel Kechagias rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: tbr-shelf-books-i-own

Loved it immensely and cannot wait for the next book. I don't know if it's just me but it was giving me phantom of the opera vibes!!! (Which of course was awesome!) ...more

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