*4.5 stars* 
 "Whatever you've heard about Caraval, it doesn't compare to the reality. It's more than just a game or performance. It's the closest you'll ever find yourself magic in this world." 
 I thoroughly enjoyed Caraval. It was just as I expected and hoped for: magical, fast paced and a bit dark. I loved that it read as a standalone, but also will (probably?) have (a) sequel(s). I'll definitely pick up a next book in this world if there will be one. Sometimes it gave me strong Alice in Wonderland vibes, with time running differently in Caraval, all the strange shops, and 'madness' going around :). 
 My only complaint was that I would have loved to see a bit more of the world of Caraval and the game. In the beginning I was a bit frustrated by Scarlett's 'romantic' feelings, focusing on the way the male characters look, etc. But as the story continued, the possible romance interwove in the game. Because this book read so fast, despite being 400 p., I would have loved it even more if it would have been a bit longer, also displaying the other players and the world more.