Once Upon a Broken Heart Books in Chronological Order – Complete Guide

Once Upon a Broken Heart books in chronological order consists of three books by Stephanie Garber: Once Upon a Broken Heart (2021), The Ballad of Never After (2022), and A Curse for True Love (2023). This is a spellbinding YA fantasy romance trilogy filled with fairytale magic, immortal curses, and a whirlwind quest for a happily ever after. Below, find essential reading stats, an interactive guide, and expert tips to enhance your journey through this enchanting series.

• Total Reading Time: ~20–21 hours (all 3 books) – about 6–8 weeks of casual reading (at ~30 minutes per day)
• Reading Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5) – Accessible YA prose, suitable for teen and adult readers (age 13+)
• Genres: Young Adult Fantasy, Fairytale Romance
• Content Warnings: Grief and loss (death of a parent), mild blood and violence (including murder), emotionally intense heartbreak themes

🎧 Audiobook Tip: Each book runs ~9–10 hours in audio, narrated by Rebecca Soler with immersive flair.

Series Hook (One-Liner): “A heartbroken girl makes a dangerous deal with the Prince of Hearts – a wicked immortal – to stop a wedding, igniting a magical tale of love, curses, and fate.”

Quick Buy :

	Title	Buy Link
	Once Upon a Broken Heart	Buy on Amazon
	The Ballad of Never After	Buy on Amazon
	A Curse for True Love	Buy on Amazon

Once Upon a Broken Heart Books Quick Summary

Once Upon a Broken Heart is a #1 New York Times bestselling trilogythat has captured the hearts of readers worldwide with its mix of whimsical fairytale romance and dark fantasy intrigue.

The story follows Evangeline Fox, a hopeless romantic who bargains with an immortal Fate (Jacks, the Prince of Hearts) to stop her true love’s wedding – only to find herself entangled in a larger magical destiny. Across the three books, Evangeline’s journey takes her from heartache and betrayal to the brink of a deadly curse, all while exploring the cost of true love and the power of hope and sacrifice.

Global Popularity

The trilogy has been read by millions and translated into 30+ languages, solidifying its place as a global YA phenomenon. Each installment debuted as a bestseller (all three books hit #1 on the NYT list), and the series is a TikTok (#BookTok) favorite for its swoony romance and plot twists.

Accolades 

Every book in the series was a Goodreads Choice Award Nominee for Best Young Adult Fantasy in its release year – a testament to the love and acclaim from the reading community. Critics and authors have praised Garber’s storytelling: “Edgy, dark, and gorgeously written—this takes the fairytale trope and turns it into something heart-pounding, fresh, and addictive,” raves author Jodi Picoult.

Who Will Enjoy

Once Upon a Broken Heart appeals to teens and adults alike, especially fans of fairy tales, enemies-to-lovers romance, and immersive fantasy worlds. Readers who enjoyed the magical carnival of Garber’s Caraval series or the romantic intrigue of stories like The Cruel Prince will find much to love here. The tone blends hopeful enchantment with sharp heartbreak, making it popular among 18–45 year-olds who crave emotional YA fantasy adventures.

Series Status

Completed! No waiting – all three books are out (2021–2023), so you can binge the entire story from beginning to end. (It’s a continuous trilogy, meaning you’ll want to read them in order for the full narrative. More on reading order below!)

Author Spotlight: Stephanie Garber

Stephanie Garber is the imaginative mind behind Once Upon a Broken Heart. She’s the #1 NYT and internationally bestselling author of this trilogy and the acclaimed Caraval series. Garber’s books are known for their lush, atmospheric writing and twist-filled plots that feel like stepping into a vivid dream. Her debut (Caraval, 2017) entranced readers with a magical carnival, and with Once Upon a Broken Heart she expanded that universe to the frosty Magnificent North, introducing new heroes and villains while interweaving Easter eggs for longtime fans.

Credibility

Garber’s works have collectively sold millions of copies and been translated into over thirty languages, reflecting a broad international fanbase. She has been nominated for multiple awards – for instance, Caraval and its sequels, as well as Once Upon a Broken Heart, all earned Goodreads Choice nominations in their categories.

Other Works

Prior to OUABH, Garber wrote the Caraval trilogy (Caraval, Legendary, Finale), where the Prince of Hearts (Jacks) first appears. Fans often appreciate reading Caraval to catch references in OUABH (though it’s not required). Looking ahead, Stephanie Garber is venturing into adult fantasy with her upcoming novel Alchemy of Secrets (2025), proving her storytelling magic crosses age brackets.

Fun Fact

Garber’s writing is known for synesthetic descriptions – characters describe sights and emotions in terms of taste or color (e.g. “heartbreak that tastes like ash and wine”). This signature style creates a richly sensory experience that makes her Once Upon a Broken Heart world feel both dreamy and dangerously alive.

Garber’s ability to blend hope and heartbreak in a fairy-tale setting has cemented her status as a star in YA literature. Now, let’s dive into the books themselves – here is the complete Once Upon a Broken Heart in chronological order with all the details you need for an informed and enjoyable read.

Once Upon a Broken Heart Books in Chronological Order

Below is the chronological reading order for the Once Upon a Broken Heart series, which is also the publication order (since the story was released sequentially). Each entry includes the book number, cover, brief description, length, and available formats. Follow this guide to read the series start to finish in the proper order, ensuring you experience Evangeline and Jacks’s story as intended.

Book 1 – Once Upon a Broken Heart (2021) – The captivating opener. Once Upon a Broken Heart introduces Evangeline Fox, a young woman who believes in true love and fairy tales – until her own heart is shattered. Desperate to stop the wedding of the man she loves (who is about to marry her stepsister), Evangeline strikes a deal with the Prince of Hearts, Jacks. In exchange for his help, she owes him three kisses at times of his choosing.

This Faustian bargain launches Evangeline on an adventure to the magical North, where legendary curses, vampire churches, and ballrooms of enchanted revelry await. But Evangeline soon learns that bargaining with an immortal Fate is a dangerous game – Jacks has plans that could lead to “the greatest happily ever after, or the most exquisite tragedy”.

• Pages: ~416; 
• Est. Reading Time: ~7 hours.
• Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle eBook, Audiobook. All formats available, including special editions like the B&N Exclusive with bonus content.

Book 2 – The Ballad of Never After (2022) – A jaw-dropping sequel that raises the stakes. After the events of Book 1, Evangeline’s trust in Jacks is shattered. The Ballad of Never After finds Evangeline reeling from Jacks’s betrayal and determined never to rely on him again.

She has begun to discover magic of her own, hoping to reclaim the chance at happiness that was stolen from her. But when a terrifying new curse grips the North, Evangeline is forced into an uneasy alliance with Jacks once more. This time, the rules between them have changed – and Jacks might just be the only one she can trust, despite how much she wants to despise him.

Old friends and new foes emerge as a murderous spell wreaks havoc, testing Evangeline’s wits and heart like never before. Ballad is known for its shocking cliffhanger that left fans gasping (have Book 3 handy!).

• Pages: ~416; 
• Est. Reading Time: ~7 hoursr.
• Formats: HC, PB, eBook, Audio. Also available in signed and international editions – this installment was so popular it has multiple collectible versions.

Book 3 – A Curse for True Love (2023) – The breathtaking conclusion to the trilogy. A Curse for True Love delivers answers and high drama as two villains, one girl, and a deadly battle for happily ever after collide.

Evangeline appears to have finally gotten her happy ending at the start of this book – she’s awakened in a legendary castle, married to a handsome Prince. However, she has no memory of the sacrifices she made to get here. In truth, a devastating curse has robbed Evangeline of what (and who) she holds most dear. As Jacks faces off against an impostor prince determined to keep Evangeline in the dark, our heroine must uncover the truth of what she lost before it’s too late.

This finale is brimming with twists, emotional reunions, and an epic final confrontation that decides the fate of true love.

• Pages: ~400;
• Est. Reading Time: ~6.5–7 hours.
• Formats: HC, PB, eBook, Audio. Note: some special editions feature exclusive alternate endings or bonus chapters – a treat for avid fans and collectors!

Series Total: 3 books; ~1,232 pages (print) in all. If you read all Once Upon a Broken Heart books in chronological order, plan on roughly 20 hours of reading time (or about 15 hours listening time via audiobook). It’s a manageable trilogy that can be enjoyed over a few weeks – and trust us, once you’re hooked, you may race through it even faster!

Why Read Once Upon a Broken Heart Books in Chronological Order?

Reading the Once Upon a Broken Heart Books in Chronological Order is essential as the trilogy unfolds one continuous story. Each book directly builds on events from the previous installment, with critical plot connections and character development. Evangeline’s evolving relationships, the unfolding curse, and thematic depth—such as love, trust, and sacrifice—are best appreciated when experienced in sequence. This approach ensures that readers enjoy every twist, reveal, and emotional climax exactly as intended by the autho

Reading Order Steps

Format Guide & Purchase Options

Ready to start reading? Here’s how to choose the best format for your Once Upon a Broken Heart adventure, plus info on special editions and where to find the books. Whether you prefer the feel of a hardcover, the convenience of a Kindle, or the immersion of audio, this series has you covered.

Once Upon a Broken Heart Books Quick Buy

Book	Title	Buy Link
1	Once Upon a Broken Heart	Buy on Amazon
2	The Ballad of Never After	Buy on Amazon
3	A Curse for True Love	Buy on Amazon

1. Physical Books (Hardcover & Paperback)

• Hardcovers: Beautiful collector’s items with exclusive cover art and bonus content (such as extra chapters).
• Paperbacks: Affordable and portable, typically released 6–12 months after hardcovers.

2. E-Books (Kindle, Nook, Kobo, etc.)

Instant access on your preferred device—perfect for convenience and portability.

3. Audiobooks

Narrated by Rebecca Soler, bringing characters vividly to life—ideal for immersive storytelling and multitasking.

4. Special & Collector’s Editions

• Barnes & Noble Exclusive Editions: Include bonus chapters or epilogues.
• Signed Editions: Available at select bookstores like Waterstones or Indigo.
• Book Subscription Boxes: FairyLoot and Illumicrate editions feature exclusive covers and special artwork.

5. Libraries & E-lending

Check your local library for physical copies or apps like OverDrive/Libby for e-books and audiobooks.

Optimal Format Recommendations:

• Annotators & Collectors: Hardcover editions.
• Fast Readers & Budget-conscious: E-books for instant and affordable access.
• Immersive Storytelling: Audiobooks or combined e-book/audio experience.

Consider combining formats for a richer re-reading experience!

Happy reading—or listening! 📖🎧

Media Adaptations

Currently, there are no official announcements regarding adaptations of the Once Upon a Broken Heart series. However, Garber’s Caraval Series has sparked significant interest, and fans eagerly anticipate potential screen adaptations.

Reading Experience Optimization

To fully enjoy Once Upon a Broken Heart, consider these reading strategies:

1. Optimal Reading Pace

Balance your pace—3-5 chapters daily is ideal. This ensures you fully absorb details without losing narrative momentum. Treat each book like a TV season: finish in one to two weeks, taking short breaks between books.

2. Avoiding Series Fatigue

Prevent emotional burnout by:

• Taking brief breaks between books.
• Switching formats (e.g., from print to audio).
• Discussing plot twists with friends or online communities.

3. Note-Taking & Clue Tracking

Enhance your engagement by:

• Jotting down key clues, character details, and magical elements.
• Tracking important events, like Evangeline’s kisses with Jacks.
• Maintaining a quick reference character list.

4. Immersion and Atmosphere

Create an enchanting reading atmosphere:

• Use themed playlists (fairytale scores or character-inspired music).
• Enjoy scented candles or themed snacks from the books.

5. Join the Discussion

Boost your enjoyment by interacting with fellow readers:

• Engage in online communities (Reddit, Discord).
• Follow OUABH hashtags on Bookstagram/BookTok.
• Participate in buddy reads or book clubs for deeper insights.

6. Re-reading Strategies

Maximize a re-read by:

• Reading in reverse order after finishing the series.
• Focusing on specific elements like character dialogue or hidden clues.
• Using author annotations or fan analyses for deeper understanding.

Applying these strategies ensures a rich, immersive reading experience, making your journey through Once Upon a Broken Heart truly unforgettable!

Advanced Reading Strategies (Deep Dive for Superfans)

To fully enjoy Once Upon a Broken Heart, consider these reading strategies:

1. Optimal Reading Pace

Balance your pace—3-5 chapters daily is ideal. This ensures you fully absorb details without losing narrative momentum. Treat each book like a TV season: finish in one to two weeks, taking short breaks between books.

2. Avoiding Series Fatigue

Prevent emotional burnout by:

• Taking brief breaks between books.
• Switching formats (e.g., from print to audio).
• Discussing plot twists with friends or online communities.

3. Note-Taking & Clue Tracking

Enhance your engagement by:

• Jotting down key clues, character details, and magical elements.
• Tracking important events, like Evangeline’s kisses with Jacks.
• Maintaining a quick reference character list.

4. Immersion and Atmosphere

Create an enchanting reading atmosphere:

• Use themed playlists (fairytale scores or character-inspired music).
• Enjoy scented candles or themed snacks from the books.

5. Join the Discussion

Boost your enjoyment by interacting with fellow readers:

• Engage in online communities (Reddit, Discord).
• Follow OUABH hashtags on Bookstagram/BookTok.
• Participate in buddy reads or book clubs for deeper insights.

6. Re-reading Strategies

Maximize a re-read by:

• Reading in reverse order after finishing the series.
• Focusing on specific elements like character dialogue or hidden clues.
• Using author annotations or fan analyses for deeper understanding.

Applying these strategies ensures a rich, immersive reading experience, making your journey through Once Upon a Broken Heart truly unforgettable!

Community Discussion & Reviews

Joining the lively Once Upon a Broken Heart community enhances your reading experience. Here’s a snapshot of fan favorites, popular debates, and engaging prompts for group discussion.

Fan Favorite Moments (Spoiler-Free):

• Book 1: The magical Nocte Neverending ball scene, praised for its fairy-tale charm with a classic Garber twist.
• Book 2: A moonlit confession scene with Jacks—fans swooned over its emotional depth.
• Book 3: The finale, described by fans as “bittersweet yet beautiful.” Be prepared for emotional reactions!

Polls & Controversies:

• Favorite Book: Surprisingly, Book 2 (The Ballad of Never After) often ranks highest in fan polls, praised for its intense pacing and cliffhanger.
• Team Jacks vs. Others: Although briefly debated early on, most fans passionately discuss whether Jacks truly deserves Evangeline, leading to engaging redemption debates.
• Best Plot Twist: Readers frequently debate twists from Books 2 and 3, agreeing Garber masterfully delivers unexpected surprises.
• Cliffhanger Opinions: Book 2’s dramatic ending sparked spirited reactions, with fans both loving and playfully cursing Garber’s storytelling genius.

Discussion Prompts (Spoiler-Free):

• “Should Evangeline have made a deal with Jacks?” — Explore themes of desperation and choice.
• “Is Jacks a villain, anti-hero, or somewhere in between?” — A favorite character debate topic.
• “Did the trilogy’s conclusion meet or challenge your expectations for a fairytale ending?” — Reflect on the series’ deeper messages.
• “Which magical setting would you visit if possible?” — Fun, imaginative conversations about favorite locations.
• “Is Evangeline’s unwavering belief in love a strength or weakness?” — Discuss perceptions of her character growth.

Engage with these prompts online or with friends, and remember to mark spoilers clearly!

FAQs

Related Series & Recommendations

Finished reading Once Upon a Broken Heart books in chronological order and looking for your next read? Here are top recommendations to capture similar magic and romance.

1. The Caraval Series by Stephanie Garber

(Caraval, Legendary, Finale, Spectacular)
Explore more of Garber’s magical world filled with romance, intrigue, and familiar characters. Perfect for fans craving more whimsical storytelling and intricate twists.

2. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

An immersive, mature fantasy romance featuring fae realms, powerful immortal characters, and intense emotional arcs—great for readers who enjoyed the romantic tension and magical bargains in OUABH.

3. The Folk of the Air (Cruel Prince) by Holly Black

A compelling trilogy with a fierce heroine and a captivating, morally ambiguous romance. Ideal if you loved Evangeline’s battles with fate and Jacks’s complex anti-hero charm.

4. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

A dreamy standalone novel filled with enchanting magic and lyrical writing. Perfect if you were drawn to OUABH’s atmospheric and richly described settings.

5. Kingdom of the Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco

A darker fantasy trilogy about witches, mystery, and dangerous alliances with charismatic villains—ideal if you enjoyed the darker edge and romantic dynamics of OUABH.

6. The Empyrean Series (Fourth Wing) by Rebecca Yarros

For readers seeking a mature, high-stakes fantasy with dragons and intense romance. If you want fast pacing and an addictive love story with a bit more spice, this series fits perfectly.

Explore more: The Empyrean Books in Chronological Order – Complete Guide

Upcoming: Watch for Garber’s adult debut, Alchemy of Secrets (late 2025), promising her trademark style in a new, exciting setting.

Quick Reading Pathways:

• Stay in Universe: Caraval series
• YA Dark Romance: Cruel Prince or Kingdom of the Wicked
• New Adult Fantasy: ACOTAR or Fourth Wing
• Atmospheric Magic: The Night Circus

Enjoy discovering your next literary obsession!