Book Review: Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my recent reading spree, it’s that Stephanie Garber knows how to weave magic into her storytelling. Her latest trilogy, starting with Once Upon a Broken Heart, is a captivating blend of fairy tales, romance, and mystery that had me hooked from start to finish.

I’ll admit, I haven’t finished the Caraval series yet (I’m still in the midst of it), but I knew I had to pick this book up when I saw it. Partly because I love a stunning cover—and let’s be honest, the pink paperback of Once Upon a Broken Heart is a work of art—but also because I enjoyed the first Caraval book so much that I wanted more of Garber’s enchanting world. I wasn’t disappointed.

A Tale of Magic and Prophecy

Once Upon a Broken Heart follows Evangeline Fox, a charming protagonist whose story feels like it belongs in a classic fairy tale. Evangeline comes from a small, unassuming world, but it quickly becomes clear she’s destined for something far greater. The book kicks off when she makes a deal with Jacks, the Prince of Hearts, one of the Fates. From there, the story spirals into a journey filled with prophecies, curses, and a richly imagined Northern Kingdom.

While I don’t want to spoil too much, I have to mention that the plot twists are some of my favorite aspects of this book. Garber masterfully balances surprises and revelations, keeping you guessing until the very end. The story isn’t just about Evangeline’s choices and sacrifices—it’s also about unraveling the mysteries surrounding the Fates and the origins of the kingdom.

Jacks: The Prince of Hearts

One of the standout characters is Jacks, a complex and morally ambiguous figure who was introduced in Caraval but truly shines in this book. His dynamic with Evangeline is one of the highlights, and I found myself eager to uncover more about his past and his motivations. Jacks is more than just a brooding, cursed character—he’s intriguing, layered, and undeniably central to the story’s emotional core.

As someone who’s read a bit of Caraval, I couldn’t help but wonder about Jacks’ supposed “one true love,” Donatella. But honestly, after seeing his interactions with Evangeline, I’m convinced their bond has something deeper and more meaningful.

Why This Book Stands Out

Garber’s writing is as enchanting as the world she creates. Her vivid descriptions and whimsical storytelling style make Once Upon a Broken Heart feel like a fairy tale come to life. It’s the kind of book that you pick up for a quick escape and suddenly realize you’ve read 230 pages in a single afternoon (yes, that’s exactly what happened to me).

What truly sets this book apart is its exploration of fate, choice, and love. Evangeline’s journey is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, and I found myself deeply invested in her growth as a character. The paper passages scattered throughout the book, the exploration of ancient rulers, and the layers of prophecy all add to the richness of the story.

Final Thoughts

Once Upon a Broken Heart is a delightful start to a trilogy that promises to be just as magical as Caraval. While it’s only the first book, it delivers a satisfying mix of romance, intrigue, and fantasy. If you love plot twists, well-drawn characters, and immersive world-building, this book is for you.

As for me, I’m eagerly looking forward to the next installment. I can’t wait to see how Evangeline’s story unfolds, how Jacks’ heart started beating, and what other secrets the Northern Kingdom holds.

In the meantime, I’ll be diving into Mile High by Liz Tomford, which has been patiently waiting on my TBR list for two years. Stay tuned for another review next week!

Happy reading!