Carnival of Fear

I love the Ravenloft novels, but it's true that they vary in quality and depth. Carnival of Fear was an unexpectedly sad and thought-provoking tale, not just a franchise cash-in. Instead of the undead, it focuses on the carnival freaks, which makes it even more saturated in the melancholy mood of gothic horror. The writing is not spectacular but solid, well-paced, and full of twists that keep you guessing. Out of the six Ravenloft novels I've read, this might be my second favorite. Recommended if you like gothic fantasy, carnival/circus horror, and/or moody moral tales.

(3.5 stars). One of the better Ravenloft novels. Also one of the more heartbreaking. There's some unfortunate '90s fantasy misogyny near the end, though it passes quickly. It's maybe the least fantasy of the series (so far), almost putting all of the eggs in the gothic horror / moral tale basket.