The Art of the Unexpected: A Book Review of Stephanie Garber's The Ballad of Never After

Hcobler
Aug 23
2 min read

Updated: Aug 26

Title: The Ballad of Never After

Author: Stephanie Garber

Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult

Finished 8/12/25

Memorable Passages:

Once again, Stephanie Garber delivers a twist ending that completely upends expectations. You think you’ve pieced together the clues, and to some extent, you have—but she masterfully pulls the rug out from under you. Just when you feel confident in where the story is headed, it veers in a direction that’s both surprising and satisfying. Her endings are never predictable, and that’s part of the magic.

What is it about? 📖

This is the second installment in the Once Upon a Broken Heart series, following Evangeline as she navigates a world of enchantment, betrayal, and longing. Partnering with Jacks, the enigmatic Prince of Hearts, she’s drawn deeper into a magical kingdom where curses run rampant, desires are dangerous, and no one’s intentions are entirely clear. The story explores the tension between fantasy and reality—where joy and envy, love and fear, coexist in a beautifully chaotic dance. It’s a tale of emotional depth wrapped in whimsical wonder.

What I Liked ❤️

I absolutely loved this book. The pacing was electric—I tore through it in no time because I simply couldn’t put it down. Garber’s storytelling is like a labyrinth: each twist resolves only to reveal another turn, and just when you think you’ve reached the center, you realize you’re somewhere entirely unexpected. Her writing mirrors the unpredictability of her plot, and that synergy makes for a thrilling read.

What I Didn't Like 😖

Reading this book can feel emotionally intense. You spend the entire journey building toward what feels like an inevitable, epic conclusion—only to arrive at something entirely different. It’s not disappointing, but it does force you to reconcile your expectations with the reality of the ending. There’s a strange duality: a sense of fulfillment paired with a lingering ache of unfulfillment. It’s a bold narrative choice, but it may leave some readers emotionally rattled.

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

🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶