Common Sense Media Review
By Florencia Orlandoni
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Action-packed carnival romantasy has thrills, chills.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Esmeralda Montero will do whatever it takes to become CARNIVAL FANTÁSTICO's number one act. Performing under the stage name "La Paloma Blanca: Fortune Teller extraordinaire," she hopes to leave behind her past as a spy for the king's army under the powerful Comandante Olivera. Esmeralda is also haunted by memories of Ignacio, her childhood love and Olivera's son, whom she believes abandoned her to join the military and follow his cruel father's footsteps. Meanwhile, Ignacio has secretly deserted the military after witnessing the brutality of war. Guided by a mysterious letter written in magical ink and connected to his late mother, Ignacio travels to the carnival to find answers. Fate brings him face-to-face with Esmeralda once again. Their undeniable chemistry brings them together, but the conflicts of the present and the wounds of the past get in their way.
Is It Any Good?
This book is a thrilling, action-packed romantasy with rich world-building and thoughtful commentary on the effects of war on individuals and communities. In Carnival Fantástico, Angela Montoya creates a lush fantasy setting centered on a magical traveling carnival, where long-buried secrets, political conflict, and young love intertwine. The novel balances spectacle and emotion, using the carnival backdrop to explore themes of social justice, survival, and identity. The romance between Esmeralda and Ignacio is central to the narrative and drives much of the emotional tension. While some readers may find the love story a bit sentimental, others will appreciate the intensity of their connection and shared history. A few plot developments feel predictable, particularly the misunderstanding that fuels the conflict between the main characters, and some moments may require a degree of suspension of disbelief. Still, the vivid setting, fast-paced plot, and underlying themes about injustice and resilience help make the story a rewarding and engaging read.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the characters in Carnival Fantástico respond to injustice and unfair systems. What are some examples of things you think are unfair or unjust in Costa Mayor?
What choices do Esmeralda and Ignacio make when they see suffering or inequality? How do they act with integrity in their decision-making? What would you do in a similar situation?
The story shows characters sometimes lying or stealing to survive. How does the need to survive in difficult situations challenge what you think is right or wrong?
What are some things Esmeralda is willing to do to survive? What are some things she is not willing to do? How does her perseverance help her make tough decisions?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Adventures , Dystopia , Fantasy ( Magic )
- Character Strengths : Integrity , Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Joy Revolution
- Publication date : February 3, 2026
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 18
- Number of pages : 444
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Kindle
- Last updated : March 27, 2026
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate