Once Upon a Broken Heart

Once Upon a Broken Heart

Book • 2021

by Stephanie Garber

The IRRESISTIBLE first novel in the #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING Once Upon a Broken Heart series, about love, curses, and the lengths that people will go to for happily ever after

For as long as she can remember, Evangeline Fox has believed in true love and happy endings . . . until she learns that the love of her life will marry another.

Desperate to stop the wedding and to heal her wounded heart, Evangeline strikes a deal with the charismatic, but wicked, Prince of Hearts. In exchange for his help, he asks for three kisses, to be given at the time and place of his choosing.

But after Evangeline’s first promised kiss, she learns that bargaining with an immortal is a dangerous game ― and that the Prince of Hearts wants far more from her than she’d pledged. He has plans for Evangeline, plans that will either end in the greatest happily ever after, or the most exquisite tragedy.

Continue the adventure in The Ballad of Never After, A Curse for True Love, and The Mirror of Infinite Endings!

Also by Stephanie Garber:

The Caraval Series
- Caraval
- Legendary
- Finale

- Spectacular

Alchemy of Secrets

Young Adult Fiction / Fantasy / Romance
Young Adult Fiction / Fantasy / Dark Fantasy
Young Adult Fiction / Fairy Tales & Folklore / General
416 pages
13+

Suggested Age

Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.

This fantasy novel explores complex themes of love, loss, and consequence, featuring morally ambiguous characters and a perilous magical system that may be best understood by teens.

Content Safety Breakdown

Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content

Sex & Nudity

2/5

The story involves themes of love and romance, and the narrative mentions 'three kisses' with the Prince of Hearts, suggesting some romantic or potentially suggestive interactions. However, the available information doesn't indicate any explicit content beyond this.

Violence & Gore

2/5

the available information mentions a 'wicked' Prince of Hearts and that bargaining with an immortal is a 'dangerous game,' implying potential conflict or peril. There isn't explicit mention of gore, but it suggests stylized action or moderate peril is possible.

Profanity

1/5

the available information does not contain any direct profanity. However, given the fantasy genre and potential for conflict, mild language might be present, though no specific examples are given.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

1/5

There are no specific mentions of alcohol, drugs, or smoking in the available information. As it's a fantasy novel, these elements might appear in a very minor, contextual way, such as background social elements.

Frightening Scenes

2/5

The narrative hints at danger and 'exquisite tragedy,' and dealing with a 'wicked' Prince of Hearts suggests there will be tense situations and potentially unsettling elements. It's likely to have moments of suspense rather than outright horror.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

This story is about a girl who believes in fairy tales and happy endings. When her love is about to marry someone else, she makes a deal with a charming but dangerous prince to stop the wedding. She learns that magic and deals with powerful beings can be very tricky.

Content Warnings

Emotional distress
Deception
Betrayal

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

This is the first book in a series, so expect it to set up ongoing plotlines and character arcs. The narrative involves magical pacts with potentially dire outcomes, a potentially manipulative romantic interest, and emotional distress related to romantic rejection.

What Kids Can Learn

Young readers can explore themes of agency and the complexities of relationships, understanding that 'happily ever after' often requires difficult choices and navigating unforeseen challenges. It can prompt discussions about healthy boundaries and recognizing potentially unhealthy dynamics.

Key Topics Discussed

Fairy tales
Magic and curses
Deals and consequences

Why Parents Might Like It

Appeals to fans of romantic fantasy with intricate world-building and a focus on emotional journeys, reminiscent of popular YA series.

Positives & Learning

What makes this content valuable for children

Positive Messages

3/5

The narrative emphasizes the importance of making choices and facing their repercussions, even when the stakes are high. It also touches on the idea that true happiness might not always align with initial desires.

Positive Role Models

2/5

Evangeline demonstrates resilience and determination in pursuing her goals, though her choices often involve questionable bargains and impulsive actions. The Prince of Hearts, while charismatic, serves as a cautionary figure rather than a role model.

Diverse Representations

1/5

No diverse representations are indicated in the available information.

Educational Value

2/5

Encourages critical thinking about the nature of love, sacrifice, and the long-term impact of decisions. Introduces concepts of magical systems and their inherent rules and costs.

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