From Fairytales to Fate: A Book Review of Stephanie Garber's Once Upon a Broken Heart

Hcobler
Aug 23
2 min read

Updated: Aug 26

Title: Once Upon a Broken Heart

Author: Stephanie Garber

Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult

Finished 7/16/25

Memorable Passages:

“I believe there are far more possibilities than happily ever after or tragedy. Every story has the potential for infinite endings.”

“A fountain pen with a curious label: for finding dreams that don’t exist yet.”

What is it about?

This book follows a girl swept into a world of magic, fairytales, and prophecies, all driven by the choices people make for love. Her journey intertwines with the enigmatic Prince of Hearts as she tries to mend a broken love story. Each twist is more unexpected than the last, unraveling mysteries that continuously reshape the narrative. Just when you think everything’s settled, the story spins into something new. By the final page, the world you began in feels completely transformed—like waking up somewhere you didn’t realize you’d been heading all along.

What I Liked

I loved the concept of this book—it blends magic and fantasy with deeply human themes in a way that feels both whimsical and grounded. The world is rich with enchantment, but never loses sight of the emotional core that drives the story forward. What really impressed me was how the main plot wove together smaller, intricate subplots. Each one feels like its own journey, and just when you think a storyline is complete, it unfolds into something even more compelling. Stephanie Garber has an incredible knack for pacing and engagement; every chapter pulls you into the next with fresh intrigue. It was one of those reads where you’re constantly telling yourself “just one more page,” and suddenly it’s three chapters later. And through it all, you can’t help but root for the main character—she’s captivating, courageous, and truly easy to love.

What I Didn't Like

What’s fascinating is that I both loved and hated the ending—and that dual feeling is part of what makes this book so compelling. While many authors leave the door slightly ajar for a sequel, Stephanie Garber crafted an ending that feels deliberately unfinished yet strangely satisfying. Knowing there are two more books to follow, the open-ended nature makes sense, but it still left me wanting more in the best (and worst) way. By the final pages, I found myself itching to go back and reread earlier chapters to catch missed clues and connections. It’s one of those stories that stays with you, tempting a second read not just for enjoyment, but for deeper understanding—especially now that I know the journey continues.

Final Overall Rating

This is not simply an average of the previous 3 ratings, but its own rating about how all the separate pieces came together and if it is worth your time to read it!

Story: 🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶 (5/5 Quills)
Writing Style: 🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶 (5/5 Quills)
Overall Enjoyment: 🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶 (5/5 Quills)

A rare and exceptional novel that seamlessly blends masterful storytelling, exquisite prose, and immersive themes. It provokes thought, emotion, and lasting reflection, making it an unforgettable literary experience

🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶