A Curse for True Love
Stephanie Garber
About this book
Evangeline Fox thought she had earned her happily ever after. Married to the handsome Prince Apollo, she believed her story was finally over. But fate, it seems, has other plans. When a dark curse resurfaces, Evangeline's memories are stolen, leaving her unsure of who she can trust—her seemingly devoted husband or the enigmatic Jacks, the Prince of Hearts, whose intentions are as alluring as they are dangerous.
As Evangeline struggles to piece together her lost past, she uncovers a web of secrets and deceptions that could shatter her carefully constructed world. Two villains, one girl, and a deadly battle for happily ever after collide in this epic conclusion to the Once Upon A Broken Heart trilogy. With time running out and powerful forces at play, Evangeline must decide who to believe and what she's willing to risk for a love that might be a curse in disguise. Will she reclaim her true love, or will she lose everything in this final, perilous game?
Summary of Key Ideas
- •
Choices Define Destiny
The Power of Choice: Evangeline consistently faces difficult choices that determine her fate and the fates of those around her. Her decisions highlight the theme that even in a world filled with magic and curses, personal agency and the choices one makes hold immense power. This concept emphasizes the importance of free will and the consequences that follow, reinforcing the idea that destiny is not fixed but rather shaped by individual actions.
- •
Love's Complexities and Challenges
The Ambiguity of True Love: The novel explores the complexities of true love, suggesting it is not a simple, easily defined concept. Evangeline's relationships, especially with Jacks, are fraught with challenges, betrayals, and sacrifices. The narrative questions whether true love is enough to overcome curses, manipulative forces, and personal demons. This challenges the traditional fairytale notion of 'happily ever after' and presents a more realistic view of love as a constant struggle and negotiation.
- •
Love's Sacrificial Nature
Sacrifice as the Ultimate Expression of Love: Characters repeatedly make significant sacrifices for love, demonstrating that true love often requires selflessness and the willingness to prioritize another's well-being above one's own. These acts of sacrifice, whether it's giving up power, memories, or even life itself, underscore the profound depth of love and its transformative potential. This theme elevates the narrative beyond simple romance, exploring love as a powerful, sacrificial force.
- •
The Price of Power
The Corrupting Influence of Power: The book delves into how the pursuit and possession of power can corrupt individuals, leading them to make morally questionable decisions. Characters who seek power often become manipulative and ruthless, willing to sacrifice others to achieve their goals. This exploration highlights the dangers of unchecked ambition and serves as a cautionary tale about the ethical responsibilities that come with power.
- •
Finding Yourself Through Trials
The Importance of Self-Discovery: Throughout the story, Evangeline undergoes a journey of self-discovery as she grapples with her identity, her past, and her desires. Facing numerous trials and tribulations, she learns more about her strengths, weaknesses, and what truly matters to her. This theme emphasizes the significance of understanding oneself and growing through adversity, portraying self-discovery as essential for personal fulfillment and happiness.
- •
Fate vs. Free Will
The Intertwined Nature of Fate and Free Will: "A Curse for True Love" explores the tension between destiny and free will, suggesting that while some events may be predetermined, individuals still have the agency to shape their paths. Characters grapple with prophecies and curses, but their choices and actions ultimately influence the outcomes. This interplay between fate and free will creates a dynamic narrative, highlighting the ongoing struggle to control one's own destiny.
- •
Memory Defines Identity
Memory and Identity: The story uses memory loss as a plot device to explore the connection between memory and identity. When Evangeline's memories are wiped, she struggles to understand who she is and what her purpose is. This amnesia underscores the idea that memories shape our understanding of ourselves and our relationships, and losing them can lead to a profound sense of disorientation and a search for identity.
Chapter Recap
About The Author
Stephanie Garber
American author of young adult fiction
Main Quotes
""Love is the most twisted curse of them all.""
""In fairytales, there was always a price for magic. Nothing came without a cost; peasants who turned into princesses always had to pay.""
""I’m not going to hurt you.” “I feel as if that’s what people always say just before they hurt you.""
""Then don't ask me to let you go!""
""Being yours does not make you mine.""
""True love's kiss? Have you not worked it out yet?""
""It was a strange thing, to be ruined and reborn in the same breath.""
""Maybe love wasn't about fairy tales or perfect endings.""
""She realized then that love wasn't a single story, it was every story.""
""She was a villain, but she was his villain.""
Who Should Read This Book
Young adults (ages 13-18)
Fans of the "Caraval" series
Readers of young adult fantasy
Readers interested in romance and adventure
Fans of fairy tales and mythology
Readers who enjoy strong female protagonists
Book Summaries Like
A Curse for True LoveFAQ

Free Access to LitNotes





