Caraval or Once upon a broken heart?

Okay, fellow bookworms, I completely get it! That moment you're staring at two gorgeous book covers – maybe even a split image like the one I saw – wondering: Caraval or Once Upon A Broken Heart? Which one should I dive into next? It’s a truly tough choice because both series by Stephanie Garber are absolutely magical, but they offer distinct experiences. First things first, let's clear up the biggest question: are Caraval and Once Upon A Broken Heart connected? The short answer is YES! Once Upon A Broken Heart is a spin-off series set in the same universe as Caraval. While you can technically read OUABH first, you'll appreciate it so much more if you read the Caraval trilogy (Caraval, Legendary, Finale) beforehand. Why? Because characters from Caraval, particularly the enigmatic Jacks, play a huge role in OUABH. Understanding their backstory and the world's magic system from the original series enriches the spin-off immensely. So, my personal recommendation for the best Caraval and OUABH timeline is to start with the Caraval trilogy. It introduces you to the fantastical world of Caraval, a mysterious, once-a-year game where magic blurs with reality. You'll follow Scarlett and Tella Dragna as they navigate love, loss, and danger in a whirlwind of illusion and stakes. The atmosphere is vibrant, whimsical, and a little dark – think 'The Night Circus' meets 'Alice in Wonderland' with a dash of high-stakes romance. After you've experienced the Caraval trilogy, you're perfectly set for Once Upon A Broken Heart. This series follows Evangeline Fox, a hopeful romantic who makes a deal with Jacks, the Prince of Hearts (who you'll already know from Caraval!). It delves into the lore of the Fates, curses, and ancient magic in a more fairytale-esque setting. While Caraval focuses on a magical game, OUABH feels more like a grand, perilous quest through a cursed land. Now, to the 'which is better?' debate! It truly depends on what you're craving. If you love elaborate, high-stakes games, sisterly bonds, and a touch of darker whimsy, Caraval might be your pick. If you're drawn to tragic anti-heroes, intricate fairytale retellings, a quest-driven plot, and a slightly more mature, angsty romance, OUABH could be your winner. Many readers, myself included, find OUABH to be a bit more character-driven and the emotional stakes perhaps even higher. And for those wondering, 'is Caraval spicy?' or 'is Once Upon A Broken Heart spicy?' – neither series is overtly 'spicy' in the way many adult fantasy books are. They are more YA/NA fantasy with strong romantic elements. There's tension, longing, and passionate kisses, but nothing explicit. The focus remains firmly on the plot, magic, and emotional connections. Ultimately, both series are captivating and beautifully written. My journey through both left me enchanted. If you're pondering 'which one,' I'd say embrace the full experience: start with Caraval to truly appreciate the world-building and character development, then dive headfirst into the broken heart of Evangeline and Jacks. You won't regret it!