Stephanie Garber: Once Upon a Broken Heart – a romantic fantasy about wishes, curses and dangerous deals
Once Upon a Broken Heart is the first book in Stephanie Garber’s beloved fantasy romance series, set in a glittering world of magic, fate, heartbreak and impossible choices. From the bestselling author of the Caraval series, this story follows Evangeline Fox, a young woman who has always believed in happily ever after — until the person she loves is about to marry someone else.
Desperate to stop the wedding and heal her broken heart, Evangeline turns to the mysterious Prince of Hearts, an immortal figure as charismatic as he is dangerous. He agrees to help her, but his price is strange and unsettling: three kisses, to be given whenever and wherever he chooses. At first, Evangeline believes she has made a desperate but manageable bargain. Soon, however, she learns that dealing with an immortal is never simple.
What is the book about?
The novel follows Evangeline Fox as she tries to save her dream of true love by making a bargain with the Prince of Hearts. But after her first promised kiss, she realizes that the Prince wants far more than she expected, and that his plans for her may lead either to a perfect happily ever after or to a beautifully tragic ending.
Who is it recommended for?
This book is ideal for readers who enjoy young adult fantasy, romantic fantasy, fairytale-inspired stories, magical bargains, curses and morally ambiguous characters. It is especially recommended for fans of Stephanie Garber’s Caraval series and readers who enjoy lush, emotional fantasy worlds with romance at their heart.
What themes does it explore?
The story explores love, heartbreak, fate, desire, trust, curses, sacrifice and the dangerous hope of happily ever after. It also asks how far someone might go to change their destiny — and whether love gained through magic can ever be truly free.
Why is it worth reading?
Once Upon a Broken Heart is worth reading for its enchanting atmosphere, irresistible romantic tension and fairytale-like storytelling. Stephanie Garber creates a world where wishes have consequences, bargains come with hidden costs, and every beautiful promise may conceal a darker truth.
What makes this book special?
The novel combines the charm of a fairytale with the suspense of a dangerous magical bargain. The relationship between Evangeline and the Prince of Hearts gives the story emotional intensity, mystery and sharp romantic tension, making it a compelling start to the series.
Is it a good gift choice?
Yes, especially for fans of fantasy romance, BookTok favourites, magical love stories and beautifully dramatic young adult fantasy. It is a lovely gift for readers who enjoy stories filled with curses, secrets, heartbreak and the possibility of a dazzling happily ever after.
If you enjoy magical love stories and fairytale-inspired fantasy, take a look at other English-language books available from BigBandi.hu.
