This is a beautiful YA fantasy romance series that asks (and answers) that question!
Fates, vampires, and magic are all rolled into this wonderful story that reads like a classic fairy tale.
💔What you can expect:
-Completed trilogy
-Multiple love interests
-Enemies to lovers
-Morally grey anti-hero
-Hurt/comfort trope
-No spice
Here are all the books in the series:
💔Once Upon a Broken Heart
🍎The Ballad of Never After
❤️A Curse for True Love
This author also has the Caraval series, which introduces some characters in this series. I personally didn’t read it first and didn’t feel like I was missing anything!
What’s your favorite romantasy trope?
2025/1/23 Edited to
... Read moreOkay, so I know a lot of you might be wondering about the 'Once Upon a Broken Heart' series, especially if you're like me and always looking for your next YA fantasy romance obsession! I wanted to dive a bit deeper into some questions I see pop up a lot, because this trilogy by Stephanie Garber is truly something special.
First off, let's talk about the age rating. While it's definitely a Young Adult series, don't let that fool you into thinking it's superficial. It tackles themes of sacrifice, destiny, and love in a really mature way, but without explicit scenes, which is why it's categorized as 'no spice.' I'd say it's perfect for teens and adults alike who enjoy a magical journey without being too dark or overly mature. Think 14+ is a good starting point for readers.
Now, those tropes! The article mentions 'enemies to lovers,' and let me tell you, it's executed beautifully. Jacks, our morally grey anti-hero, is absolutely captivating. You'll find yourself constantly questioning his motives, but that undeniable chemistry? It's *chef's kiss*. The 'hurt/comfort' dynamic also plays a huge role, especially with Evangeline, our hopeful protagonist, navigating a world filled with Fates and ancient curses. It’s not just a superficial romance; it’s about two complex characters evolving together.
And for all my fellow Bookstagrammers out there, you know how important aesthetics are! The covers for this trilogy are just stunning. I've seen so many beautiful setups with them – the vibrant colors, especially that iconic purple, really make them pop. I even have a 'Bookstagram Citrus Agave' candle that perfectly matches the vibe when I'm reading. Seeing them lined up, sometimes with little sticky notes marking my favorite passages, is just pure joy. If you're into collecting special editions, keep an eye out, because this series often gets gorgeous exclusive covers that are totally worth it!
If you've devoured this series and are now thinking, 'What books are similar to Once Upon a Broken Heart?' I totally get it! You might enjoy 'Caraval' by Stephanie Garber herself, which exists in the same world and introduces some characters that appear later. Seriously, if you haven't read 'Caraval' yet, give it a try – it enhances the experience of OUABH but isn't strictly necessary beforehand. Other recommendations often include 'A Court of Thorns and Roses' by Sarah J. Maas for the fantasy romance vibes (though it's spicier!), 'Serpent & Dove' by Shelby Mahurin for witchy enemies-to-lovers, or 'From Blood and Ash' by Jennifer L. Armentrout if you want more Fates and chosen ones, but again, that's definitely more adult and spicier.
This series truly transports you, and I can't recommend it enough for anyone looking for an enchanting escape!