Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing me with an early release audiobook in exchange for my honest opinion.

First off, the cover of this book is absolutely GORGEOUS. Honestly, I love all the covers of Stephanie's books. I am not a huge fantasy reader, but I will read ANYTHING by Stephanie Garber.

The angst in this book is literally EVERYTHING!!!!! I love Jacks so much! In this book, there are major plot twists. I was gasping the whole time. The ending of this book had me sobbing, and I am hoping that there will be another book in this series (even though it was announced as a duology)

Knowing what the first book was like, I knew what I was getting into with this book, and this audiobook version didn’t disappoint at all. It continued the story of Evangeline, Apollo, Jacks, and many of the other characters we met in the first book, as well as some new ones. But, be forewarned—there are a lot of moments in this book where you think “oh… that’s why that happens” (like Jack’s “Little Fox” nickname). The storybook curse is around and causes havoc, again, with not knowing the true ending to things. And, it is YA, so if you are not in that age range yourself, keep that in mind when you read because some things happen that make you think “Of course…,” but they didn’t deter from my reading.

(4.5)
This book really picks up right where book 1 left off! And she added enough info that if it's been awhile since you read the first you'll be able to get the gist and carry on with the story. And this one STEPPED UP from the first. It was quick paced full of twists, turns, and betrayal. I was desperate to keep reading to figure out what Evangeline and Jacks got up to after the way book one ended. This one felt a bit more complex but not in a way that made the story hard to follow but in a way that sucked you in further. I really love the storylines here and the world and the importance of stories. I know that this one isn't even out yet, but there is gonna be a third one right?! RIGHT?! Cause I need a third one!

Since this is a sequel, I don't really want to give a synopsis out of the worry of spoiling anything from the first one so I will keep it super brief and say that this book picks up the story of Evangaline and Jacks after all that they got into in book one. There isn't much time to breath, this one sets off on a whirlwind as Evangaline tries to figure out who to trust, what to do, and what the truth is. A perfect pairing to Once Upon a Broken Heart.

Thank you to Netgalley & Flatiron for early access!

Stephanie Garber has done it again! This story is excellent. It's pure magic and wonder and adventure and secrets and everything i want out of a fairytale story. People who read the first book will love this next installment. The writing is luscious, the characters are lovably tragic (especially, and always, Jacks), and the ending had me speechless. I wish the book had been longer, but some things are best taken in small portions.

That all being said, i need another book by the amazing Stephanie Garber, ASAP.

Entrancing. Perfect. Captivating. Exactly what I wanted after Once Upon a Broken Heart. So good I wanted to read it again right away, and the first one along with it. So good I ordered multiple hardcover copies.

If you read Once Upon A Broken Heart you know Jacks, and you know Evangeline. But you will get to know both of them much better in this book as the plot both thickens and develops. Of course so do the characters, and in very satisfying fashions!

Our heroine doesn't trust Jacks after the first book, but as usual, she has no choice but to rely upon him and as usual he dissapoints. But also, he doesn't. You can tell their relationship is developing but until the end, you don't realize quite what that means or how that looks.

There HAS to be a third book in this series. There just has to be. There has to be. I need it. I will beg and plead and until I get it, I plan to re-read the first two over and over and guess what it will look like when there is, but I have no doubt whatever happens I will be surprised.

I listened to this as an audiobook and the narrator was lovely, just lovely. She did justice to this wonderful novel and I hope and expect she will come back for the next book. WHICH IS HAPPENING. I'm manifesting here. IT IS! Say it with me now!


Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing me with an advanced review copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.

I want to first thank Macmillin Audio and Netgally for giving me the opportunity to read or listen to this book as an Arc.

As soon as I saw this available I was so excited and never thought I would be approved but I’m so glad that I did!

I feel like I really can’t say to much about what actually happened because it’s a lot and I’m afraid I would spoil it.

This is by far my favorite book of this author and of this year! Out of all of the Caraval book (because I count this as a continuation) this is the best!

This is so fast paced and you learn a lot about the world and the characters specifically Jacks and Chaos.

I listened to this as an audiobook in 2 days, and the narrator was amazing! This is the first book that I feel like I will reread it in a physical copy once it comes out and I NEVER reread books.

You will not regret reading this book and I’m so excited for more! I really hope there is more!!

Many thanks to Netgalley and publishers for an Audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

5/5

This was one of my most anticipated books of 2022, and it did not disappoint.

Stephanie Garber never fails at having me pick my jaw up from the floor. Her writing is incredible with the way that she always shows and hints towards things, instead of just plain out telling them. This adds to the story because then I feel like I am solving or noticing things on my own, especially when rereading, things stand out and it gets me to think more about the tale as it unfolds.

My one issue, with the audio book, was that it seems that chapter 43 is cut short. At first I assumed I accidentally skipped ahead a chapter, but going back it truly was that there was a mistake within the final product which was a little disappointing since I never got the full story.

Throughout the story you can clearly see the character development with a lot of the characters. Lala, Luke, Apollo, Chaos, Evangeline, and Jacks all have some sort of growth in this book, whether it be their backstories/motives for what they are doing becoming clear or seeing a bigger picture.

The story was told clearly and fast paced that I was inhaling the words. If I had a physical copy then I doubt I would have been able to turn the pages fast enough.

The ending made me ball my eyes out, and I still cry thinking about it. Once I get my hands on my own copy, the pages will definitely be tear stained.

Overall, Stephanie managed to rip out my heart with this tale of love, loyalty, and ultimately: betrayal.

I absolutely love this series! This is the second book and it is magnificent.
If you love the world of caraval and especially our favorite bad boy Jacks you will devour this story. Evangeline and Jacks stories continue with some surprising twists and turns along the way.
I need to know what happens next! I hope we don't have to wait too long for the next installment. I highly suggest this book to magical whimsical readers who want a fun story with some great characters.

I absolutely loved The Ballad of Never After. Stephanie Garber outdid herself again. The twists and turns of the plot were mind blowing. Can't wait to read the third book.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley and Stephanie Garber for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

*Spoiler Free*

•

Okay, I needed a moment. I slept on it. I’m still not over it. I think this book is going to haunt me for many days to come. After I finished this novel, I sat and stared at the wall for an hour, unmoving.

This is my most anticipated read of the year. Many of you know I’m obsessed with Caraval and absolutely adored Once Upon a Broken Heart. I had HIGH expectations for this novel.

And all my expectations were met and then exceeded. I don’t even know where to start.

• STORY & PACING •

I’m entirely obsessed with Garber and her writing style. It’s so full of whimsy and wonder. It’s truly magical and reminds me of the fairytales I read as a child.

I think one of my favourite aspects of this novel is the stories within the story. The Ballad of the Archer and the Fox, the Merrywood Three, The Hollow, Jacks's history. We get so much out of this novel, it’s just incredible. I also love that we never get the endings because that’s not how the North works. It just leaves so many unanswered questions, but in the best way.

I thought that plot was incredibly well done, had so much action, and great side plots. It moved fast, but not too fast. I also appreciated the moments where we slowed down and took a moment to enjoy the characters just being human.

I can’t get into the plot or anything without spoiling, but just know that it picks up where we left off and goes on one hell of a rollercoaster. I can't describe how much fun this novel was to read.

• CHARACTERS & ROMANCE •

I love that this is a story about broken hearts and never afters. It makes for such a unique, angsty, tension-filled story. I loved the slow burn romance. I loved that we could see it happening but they couldn't. I won't get into it because of spoilers, but my god, I couldn't love their dynamic more than I already do.

Evangeline had so much agency in this novel, and it was fantastic to see. She's a human stuck in a world of Fates and magic, so naturally she needs to be saved often and is constantly told to stay out of things. But she doesn't take that very well. She's her own hero more often than not, she doesn't hide, she makes her own plans, and deals with the consequences. For such a sweet and lovely character, she's got a lot of fire and is entirely fierce.

And Jacks, my sweet Jacks. My sweet wicked apple eating boy. He's my whole world. My favourite book boyfriend. Legend who? His character really grew in this novel. He was once this irritating villain who only strove to please himself, no matter who he hurt. But he really comes to his own, and learning about his history was so much fun. He's still a villain, and probably always will be, but that doesn't make me love him any less. How he treats Evangeline, his Little Fox, throughout the novel made me my soul scream.

• OVERALL •

I haven't stopped screaming since I finished this, and I don't think I ever will. It was truly so incredible and I can't wait for everyone to experience this level of pain with me.

The ending line? THE LAST LINE OF THE NOVEL? I haven't recovered. I never will.

I could go on and on and on about this novel, but I'll keep it to this before I lose my mind. Because I might. The realization that I'll never be able to read this for the first time again is heartbreaking. I wish the story curse would erase it just so I could experience it again.

The Prince of Hearts has stolen my heart.
Oh goodness!!
From the very beginning till the end this book is a page turner.
The story picks up right after OUABH ended. Evangeline and Jacks go through a lot of character growth in this book. This books is just as addicting as the first. No spoilers for me, but I think many will love this book!
The narrator, Rebecca Soler did a wonderful performance of Jacks and Evangeline. She used a wide variety of tones and inflections that are superb!! She truly brought the story to life. Oh my heart!! Jacks and Evangeline. 💜

Special thanks to Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC.

THAT ending. Omg.

💞Here's what I liked:💞
-the Plot Twists
-Jacks moments and dialogue 😍
-Evangeline's slight improvement in character development
-the side characters: lala and chaos (so unexpected after the last book)

We jump into the book shortly after the ending in OUABH. And I must admit, the book felt slow moving at the start. I feared the plot was going nowhere, but that last 30% of the book made it worth it. 😱

Evangeline still manages to maintain the same level of obliviousness to any sense of danger or trapping, which continues to baffle me 😖. Regardless, she's still a MC you can root for, but you undeniably get frustrated with her for her lack of awareness.

I wouldn't say there is romance, but.. there is longing. A heart-wrenching kind of longing. That's what hit deep in this book 💔.

I first fell in love with Jacks in the Caraval series. Because of his anguished desire to love and be loved, and the fact is, his dialogue in Finale lives rent free in my mind.

Garber's writing, specifically when it comes to Jacks dialogue, is so beautifully written. She captures his desire and torment and complexity in all his most vulnerable moments - and you can't help but fall in love with him, wishing for his happiness 😭. I feel like OUABH failed to capture that essence of him, but this book brought it back! And thank goodness for that.

Bottom line: Jacks is carrying this series for me, but the plot twists in this book follows close behind. The slowburn YA romance is top tier. Evangeline is still the most likely to willfully wander into every potential trap in existence, but we reluctantly root for her anyway.

If you're a Garber fan, this book won't disappoint!

I adored Once Upon a Broken Heart, so I was thrilled to start the next book in the series, The Ballad of Never After. . Disclaimer: I am writing this review under the assumption that there will be at least one more book in the series, as there are many questions I have that feel unanswered, although at this time no such book has been announced. The Ballad of Never After takes us further into the mystical world where Sleeping Beauty meets Alice in Wonderland meets Cinderella meets The Avengers: End Game. Okay, that last one was a joke, but I seriously love this magical world that draws elements from your favorite childhood stories while remaining completely unique. And, of course, I love Jacks, who is the definition of a morally grey hero. Despite showing almost no redeeming qualities, I can't help but hope that Evangeline ends up with him. I am eagerly looking forward to the next book, while shouting from the rooftops for people to read this book so I have friends to theorize with!

5/5 Stars

CW/TW : Violence, Murder, Abuse

I received a free audio ARC in exchange for an honest review through Netgalley. Thank you to Macmillan audio and Netgalley.

I had high hopes for this book as the last one was my favorite read of last year, and I was not disappointed by this sequel. This was my first audiobook ever and I think that definitely led to it feeling a lot longer of a book than it actually was but that didn’t ruin my enjoyment.

The narrator Rebecca Soler was amazing and I really loved how she read it. I did feel like some of the male characters didn’t come off as scary as they were supposed to but that was just a minor issue for me. The one thing I think the audiobook actually helped me learn is Evangeline is a very annoying main character, she repeats things and just isn’t the smartest in her decisions.

This book picks up right where book 1 left off, Evangeline is trying to save her husband while also not giving in to what Jacks wants her to do. The banter and everything between Evangeline and Jacks was amazing, it was everything I wanted from them. I thought this book did drag in some places and then solve some problems very quickly, but I rate on vibes and enjoyment not writing.

I thought this was an amazing sequel and in the end I just kept writing small notes of just panic in a good way. I can’t wait for the next book to be released and to see what Stephanie Garber does next as I love her writing.

I highly recommend this book and series to people who love a mystical and whimsical story that doesn’t feel like it’s high fantasy but also feels very magical still.

Absolutely could not stop listening to this book. The narration was excellent, and the story was so exciting. Stephanie Garber has managed to create both whimsy and suspense in this sequel to Once Upon a Broken Heart. She has such a gift for weaving together beautiful settings and fairy tale quirks with ominous darkness. Both Evangaline's arc paired with Jacks throughout the book is an excellent continuation of book one.

Let me begin with a thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this audiobook ARC of the Ballad of Never After in exchange for an honest review.

Now, let’s get to it.

I LOVE Stephanie Garber. She is the epitome of a fairytale queen. The way she writes is beautiful while still carrying you deeper an deeper into the story. TBONA uses the same narrator as OUABH and I absolutely adore her. She has the perfect voice for Evangeline and it is just *chef’s kiss*

Originally I had thought this series was likely to be a duology with possibly more. Well, that ending puts SJM cliffhangers to shame and it is quite clear there is much more to come! Although I do want to know where to send my therapy bill to, because I am not ok.

This is the perfect next installment to the story. You fall deeper in love with Jacks (is that possible? It must be) and while Evangeline does some not smart things, she grows so much and her inner war with optimism for true love and the harsh realities she faces is utter brilliance.

This story earned every bit of the five star rating I gave it and I almost wish I hadn’t devoured it so quickly just because of how sad I am that now it’s over and I have to wait again.

One of my most anticipated sequels this year and it did not disappoint! I honestly think Rebecca Soler might be my favorite audiobook narrator. I usually struggle to follow along with an audiobook when I don’t have a physical copy handy but she makes it easy by giving each character a distinct voice. As for the story, I really enjoyed it. I feel like you either love the Caraval world or you don’t but I’m a huge fan. It can be very difficult to keep up with since side characters never seem to give the main character a straight answer. Up is down and down is up in this world but it has a fantastic fairy tale vibe. The first half of the story wasn’t as good as the second half for me so I think my biggest issue would be the pacing. Aside from Legend, Jacks is 100% my favorite character and you finally get more of his backstory here. I just want him to have his happily ever after already! The romance in this series hasn’t topped Caraval just yet but I love how whimsical OUABH is. That cliffhanger ending was brutal and I have no clue how I will wait for the next book. If you’re a fan of the first book, you will not be disappointed.

I know I got an ACR of this book but release the third book title already because I’m absolutely dying at that ending. I’ve never needed a book more than the next one in this series. Bravo to this book Stephanie Garber! I feel like so many fantasy romances can either have annoying female leads or romances that do the push and pull too much - these characters are believable and funny. This world and this romance is so fun. The hollow was magical and I can’t believe those last 3 minutes of audio. I was counting down the seconds like no way in hell could it end like this! Between both the books in this series Rebecca Solar has also become one of my favorite narrators.

All the stars! Stephanie Garber has done it again! I absolutely loved The Ballad of Never After. This stunning sequel is full of mystery & magic and I enjoyed every second of it. The way that this story unfolds is wild. The ending of each chapter left me needing to know more. There are twists and turns everywhere. You don’t know if you can fully trust anyone or anything. What a time!

I loved that we get to know more about Jacks and his backstory. It was so much fun learning how things are connected. My jaw was literally on the floor quite a few times. Evangeline goes through it in this book. She is so resilient and I just love her! I think my favorite part of this book was seeing Jacks and Evangeline’s relationship grow. It’s definitely a slow burn with lots of bumps in the road but I’m always going to be rooting for them!

That ending…WHAT! I don’t know how to feel. I didn’t see that coming but it was so good!

The audio was 10/10 perfect! Rebecca Soler is one of my favorite narrators. She always does an incredible job bringing stories to life!

The Ballad of Never After was one of my most anticipated releases of 2022, so needless to say I was absolutely delighted to get approved for early reading!

Stephanie Garber is an absolute master and creating wonderfully whimsical worlds, from the clothing to the backdrops to the quirky characters, the world she has created in Caraval and OUABH series is one I love losing myself in. Jacks has been one of my favourite characters since he was introduced and I adored seeing his progression in the newest instalment. We start to get a better grasp of his background and why he is the way he is (read: mercurial, frustrating, flighty), which fleshed him out so much more than in OUABH. If anything, TBONA further solidified Jacks as one of my top three favourite characters in YA fantasy.

While I won’t reveal much about the plot in this reviews, as I think it’s best to keep it shrouded in mystery as Stephanie intended, I’ll just say I was kept on my toes every second. It was extremely twisty and fast paced, keeping me interested from start to finish. I quite enjoyed listening to it as I am terrible for getting an anticipated release and flying through it in a matter of hours. By having to slow down and stretch the reading experience over a few days it really let me sink into the world and characters, which I really enjoyed.

Overall, I liked TBONA more than it’s predecessor and think it will be met with high reviews come release day!