Book Review: The Ballad of Never After by Stephanie Garber
There’s something truly mesmerizing about fairy tales that stretch the boundaries of reality, weaving together magic, love, and heartache. Stephanie Garber’s The Ballad of Never After, the second book in the Once Upon a Broken Heart series, lured me in with its promise of a tangled romance and dark curses—perfectly encapsulating the unpredictable nature of love. After being enamored with the first installment, I couldn’t resist diving deeper into Evangeline Fox and the enigmatic Prince of Hearts, Jacks.
As the pages turned, I found myself wrapped in a world where trust is fragile and love is an intricate dance of desire and betrayal. Garber’s ability to conjure vivid imagery alongside multifaceted characters made every moment palpably real. Evangeline, still reeling from Jacks’ previous betrayal, illustrates heartache that resonates deeply. Watching her navigate her newfound magic while wrestling with her emotions toward Jacks is a beautiful exploration of independence and feeling tethered by love.
The narrative kicks off with Evangeline vowing never to trust Jacks again, yet the threads of fate draw them together once more. Their banter, packed with intensity and longing, is not just a slow burn but an all-consuming flame that flickers unpredictably. The tension between them—especially when Evangeline finds herself needing Jacks during treacherous situations—kept me on the edge of my seat, marveling at their complicated dynamic.
What stood out to me in Garber’s writing was her ability to infuse a sense of urgency. Every twist felt purposeful, propelling Evangeline and Jacks toward an unresolved fate—especially as a new, deadly curse looms over them. Garber’s prose is both lyrical and strikingly fast-paced, making it nearly impossible to put the book down. There were moments where I felt my heart racing alongside Evangeline’s as she navigated this treacherous new path.
Several quotes echoed themes of love, vulnerability, and the continuous struggle against destiny. The poignant line, “Winning at love was less about succeeding in a battle and more about continuing to fight,” perfectly encapsulates the journey Evangeline undertakes—not just to save herself but to redefine what love means in her life. This kind of emotional depth is what keeps me returning to Garber’s enchanting world; it dares to confront the painful nuances of love and trust.
This book is a gift for those who relish intricate love stories sprinkled with fantasy and danger. If you enjoyed the first installment, you’ll appreciate how The Ballad of Never After unfolds with even more twists and revelations that keep your heart racing. It’s an exhilarating journey that captures the essence of chasing after love—however messy it may be.
Ultimately, this reading experience woke a nostalgic sense of wonder in me, reminding me of why I fell in love with storytelling in the first place. It’s a triumphant sequel that promises to leave readers breathless, and as I flipped to the last page, I found myself not just eager, but desperate for more. If you seek a tale filled with magic, heartache, and characters who feel as real as your dearest friends, then this series deserves a spot on your bookshelf. Happy reading!
You can find The Ballad of Never After (Once Upon a Broken Heart, 2) here >>