A Journey Through Magic and Heartbreak: Review of Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber
From the moment I laid eyes on the enchanting cover of Once Upon a Broken Heart, I felt a magnetic pull toward its pages. As a fan of Stephanie Garber’s previous Caraval series, I was eager to dive back into her whimsical world of magic, romance, and unforeseen twists. It felt like meeting an old friend while embarking on a new adventure—and, oh, what a delightful journey it was!
At the heart of the story is Evangeline Fox, a hopeful romantic whose dreams shatter when the love of her life chooses someone else. In a moment of desperation, she strikes a deal with the enigmatic Prince of Hearts, Jacks, who is as charming as he is wicked. The plot spirals into a fascinating negotiation revolving around three kisses that could alter the course of Evangeline’s fate, which adds layers of intrigue and tension throughout the narrative.
Garber’s writing style has always captivated me, and in this book, she continues to weave enchanting prose that effortlessly transports you into her vivid world. The pacing was spot-on; I found myself flipping through the pages late into the night, eager to unravel the mysteries that each chapter presented. The blend of humor, darkness, and fairy tale nostalgia created a reading experience that was both thrilling and comforting.
One of the standout elements in this book is certainly the relationship between Evangeline and Jacks. Their dynamic is a beautifully crafted slow-burn, reminiscent of classic fairy tales while still infused with originality. I felt an emotional connection to Evangeline as she navigated the complexities of love and deception, making choices that weighed heavily on her heart. Many readers, including the reviewer Ravenhoot, echo this sentiment, noting how the twists will keep you guessing until the very last page—a delightful blend of recognition and surprise.
The book also features an intriguing magic system that feels almost palpable at times. The way Garber unfolds the rules and consequences of her magical world keeps readers engaged. One quote that resonated with me was: “Heroes don’t get happy endings. They give them to other people.” It speaks volumes about the sacrifices we often make in the name of love—and how easily we can get lost in the pursuit of an idealized version of it.
Who would enjoy this book? If you revel in tales that explore the nuances of love, heartache, and destiny while being enveloped in lush storytelling, then Once Upon a Broken Heart is for you. It beautifully balances the desires of youthful romance with the poignant realities of choice and consequence.
As I closed the book, I felt a mix of satisfaction and yearning for more—feeling as if I had just tasted a delectable treat, leaving me eager for the next installment. Garber has once again created a world that pulls at the heartstrings and keeps the imagination alive. I can’t wait to see where Evangeline and Jacks’ journey leads next!
If you haven’t picked it up yet, I highly recommend diving into this spellbinding tale, perfect for those looking to escape into a world where magic and heartache intertwine beautifully. Happy reading!
You can find Once Upon a Broken Heart (Once Upon a Broken Heart, 1) here >>