In Caraval by Stephanie Garber, Scarlett Dragna dreams of attending the magical performance Caraval, but her abusive father arranges her marriage to gain political power. Scarlett and her sister Tella, aided by a sailor named Julian, escape to Caraval. There, Scarlett must solve clues to find the missing Tella, ultimately discovering that the line between reality and performance is blurred. The novel contains violence, death, physical abuse, and trauma.

Garber's Caraval immerses readers in a dazzling, whimsical fantasy with immersive world-building and engaging mysteries. The debut novel is praised for its enchanting setting and emotional depth. Critics, however, note occasional pacing issues and predictable plot twists. Overall, it's a captivating read for fans of magic and romance.

Readers who relish fantasy with a touch of romance will adore Stephanie Garber's Caraval. Fans of Erin Morgenstern's The Night Circus and Laini Taylor's Daughter of Smoke and Bone will find themselves enchanted by the whimsical, immersive world of Caraval, filled with magical illusions, high stakes, and captivating mystery.

Fantastical / Mysterious / Suspenseful / Romantic / Adventurous

- Caraval was initially sold as part of a three-book deal to Flatiron Books, a division of Macmillan, reportedly after a significant bidding war among publishers.
- The author, Stephanie Garber, was inspired to write Caraval after a dream involving a character in a masquerade, which contributed to the novel's enchanting and mysterious theme.
- Garber's debut novel Caraval quickly gained popularity, earning a spot on the New York Times Best Sellers list shortly after its release.

**Scarlett Dragna**  
Scarlett Dragna is the pragmatic and protective elder sister of Tella, hoping to escape her father’s control through an arranged marriage. Described as having dark hair and hazel eyes, she is cautious and driven by a desire to ensure her and her sister's safety.

**Donatella Dragna (Tella)**  
Donatella Dragna, known as Tella, is the adventurous and spirited younger sister of Scarlett with honey-blond curls. She is bold and enjoys taking risks, often showing a flair for adventure and beauty.

**Governor Marcello Dragna**  
Governor Dragna is the father of Scarlett and Tella, ruling the Isle of Trisda with an authoritarian style. He struggles with his daughters’ independence, marked by his controlling and abusive behavior.

**Julian Santos**  
Julian is a charming and flirtatious young man who becomes an essential companion to Scarlett during Caraval, possessing a mysterious and appealing personality. He is initially portrayed as a sailor but hides a deeper connection to the events of Caraval.

**Nana Annalise**  
Nana Annalise is the grandmother of Scarlett and Tella, sharing stories of her past experiences at Caraval. She offers wisdom and is tied to the history of Master Legend's past.

**Dante**  
Dante is a charismatic actor in Legend’s troupe with notable tattoos and a penchant for mystery. Known for his striking looks, he becomes a player in the Caraval game with connections to Scarlett.

**Master Legend**  
Master Legend is the enigmatic leader of Caraval, known more through letters and stories than direct interaction. He orchestrates the mysterious game that captivates the participants.

**Aiko**  
Aiko is an actor and observer in Master Legend’s troupe, who carries a detailed book chronicling Caraval’s history. Her appearance is marked by a colorful dress, and she quietly provides advice and insight into the game.

**Count Nicolas d’Arcy**  
Count Nicolas d’Arcy, initially unknown to Scarlett, is her fiancé and communicates through tender letters promising safety. His refined appearance contrasts with elements of a more controlling personality.

Stephanie Garber

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Caraval

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Before You Read

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Before You Read Caraval | SuperSummary

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Overview

Explore the boundaries between fantasy and reality in this expert-written summary and analysis of Garber’s young adult romantic fantasy Caraval.


Caraval Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Isle of Trisda”

Part 1, Chapters 1-5

Get ready to explore Caraval and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Caraval Part 1, Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 6-8

Caraval Part 1, Chapters 6-8 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Night of Caraval Eve”

Part 2, Chapters 9-12

Caraval Part 2, Chapters 9-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Night One of Caraval”

Part 3, Chapters 13-17

Caraval Part 3, Chapters 13-17 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Night Two of Caraval”

Part 4, Chapters 18-21

Caraval Part 4, Chapters 18-21 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Day Four of Caraval”

Part 5, Chapters 22-26

Caraval Part 5, Chapters 22-26 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “Night Four of Caraval”

Part 6, Chapters 27-30

Caraval Part 6, Chapters 27-30 Summary & Analysis

Part 6, Chapters 31-34

Caraval Part 6, Chapters 31-34 Summary & Analysis

Part 7: “Night Five: The Last Night of Caraval”

Part 7, Chapters 35-38

Caraval Part 7, Chapters 35-38 Summary & Analysis

Part 8: “The Day After Caraval”

Part 8, Chapters 39-42

Caraval Part 8, Chapters 39-42 Summary & Analysis

Epilogue

Caraval Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Caraval Character Analysis

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Themes

Caraval Themes

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Caraval Symbols & Motifs

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Caraval

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