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Cover of Caraval

Fantasy · Young adult · Romantasy

Caraval

by Stephanie Garber

3.7 out of 5, from 884 ratings from Hardcover readers

Scarlett and her sister Tella have lived under a harsh father on a remote island, and long to attend Caraval, a week-long magical performance. When Tella is taken, Scarlett must play the game to find her.

Facts last checked 2026-10-16

First published
2016
Pace
Medium
Length
Medium
Pages
416
Format
Book 1 of 3 in Caraval
Borrow free with Libby Compare prices Save to my shelf

Read this if you like young-adult fantasy with a dreamy, glittering setting, where nothing is quite what it seems.

Skip this if you want hard world-building, as the magic is mostly atmosphere and the story leans on twists and romance.

The feel

Content warnings

  • Abuse
  • Violence
  • Manipulation

Also reported by Hardcover readers:

  • Child abuse
  • Death
  • Emotional abuse
  • Sexual content
  • Domestic abuse

Quick answers about Caraval

What is Caraval about?
Scarlett and her sister Tella have lived under a harsh father on a remote island, and long to attend Caraval, a week-long magical performance. When Tella is taken, Scarlett must play the game to find her.
Who should read Caraval?
Read it if you like young-adult fantasy with a dreamy, glittering setting, where nothing is quite what it seems. Skip it if you want hard world-building, as the magic is mostly atmosphere and the story leans on twists and romance.
How long and how fast is Caraval?
It is a medium-paced, medium read of about 416 pages, first published in 2016.
Does Caraval have content warnings?
Content we flag: Abuse, Violence, Manipulation.
Can I borrow Caraval for free?
Often, yes. Check Libby (OverDrive) to see whether your library lends Caraval; the borrow button above searches it for you.
What should I read after Caraval?
Readers who liked it often move on to The Night Circus, Stardust, A Court of Thorns and Roses.

Where to get it

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