A review by jen1804
Once Upon A Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber

adventurous mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

“They said his kiss was fatal to all but her - his only weakness - and as he’d sought her, he’d left a trail of corpses.” Chapter 1.

I really enjoyed this book. What I will say is the writing is quite young/YA but I didn’t hate that about it and it made it really easy to digest.
It’s been ages since I’ve read a fantasy novel and I have missed it so much so this definitely filled a hole! The world building was well created and I felt able to imagine the scenery and the atmosphere. And I loved all the magic.
I didn’t realise this series was a spin-off of the Caraval series which is on my TBR so I wish I’d therefore read those books first.
I love love love Jacks’ character, he is unapologetically untrustworthy, uncaring and morally grey and I’m so here for it. We still don’t know how to accurately judge his character even now. I loved the premise of Evangeline making a deal with him, the Prince of Hearts, a magical Fate, and then being locked into repaying with three kisses of his choosing.
I’m not yet IN LOVE with Evangeline’s character though I think she has potential and I’m sure she will continue to develop as the series continues.
Also the telekinesis between them is a yes from me.
I really loved the scene in the mausoleum, give me more of that oh hell!
I love that as this book ends, the murder mystery element of it is wrapped up but there is still so much we don’t know. I bloody love a cliffhanger and can’t wait to see what happens next, I’ve heard such good things about The Ballad of Never After.
Satisfactory ending? Yes.
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