A review by baexlee
Finale by Stephanie Garber

adventurous mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Finale ends the Caraval series in a way that is satisfying, engaging and unpredictable. Deviating from the structure of the previous novels Finale is not set inside one of Legend's famous Caraval games, but rather in the city of Valenda in the aftermath of the events of Legendary. Once again we get a shift in the narrative structure, but now the chapters switch between Scarlett and Donatella, with no particular pattern that can be discerned. It's clear as the story progresses why this narrative structure was chosen, but after the whirlwind romance of Legendary I was a bit disappointed to go back to Scarlett's perspective. Ultimately my opinion changes as Scarlett's character certainly takes on a more active role in the events of this novel. 

Throughout the series it was apparent that Garber paid close attention to her plot lines and does not leave a clue without the intent to tie that piece of the story up neatly at some point later on. She left enough clues that the mystery was solvable, but it wasn't so obvious that you are not surprised by the reveals and twists and turns of the plot. Additionally, something that really shines throughout the entire series is the romantic relationships between all the characters. I personally don't love a romantic love triangle. I prefer a cut and dry relationship with it's own challenges along the way that don't necessarily involve another person, but I found myself really enjoying the complex relationship between
Tella, Legend and Jacks
. I wasn't sure who I was rooting for in the end and honestly that really surprised me, because I'm usually quite opinionated when it comes to things like that. 

Overall I think that this series had a rough start as far as my personal taste, but the ending is so strong and enchanting that I have to recommend it. 
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