Imagine a world where a single invitation can whisk you away to a masquerade of illusions, forbidden loves, and heart-pounding stakes—where the line between game and reality blurs, and every choice could rewrite your fate. If that’s the kind of escapism you’re craving, you’ve landed in the enchanting realm of Stephanie Garber. The New York Times bestselling author has captivated millions with her lush, romantic fantasy worlds filled with clever twists, swoon-worthy romance, and just the right dash of danger.
But with multiple series weaving through a shared universe, diving into Stephanie Garber’s books can feel like stepping into one of her own Caraval games. Fear not! This ultimate guide breaks down Stephanie Garber’s books in order—publication by publication—so you can savor the magic without missing a beat. Whether you’re a newbie wondering where to start or a die-hard fan hunting for the latest release, we’ve got spoiler-free summaries, reading tips, and insider notes on how it all connects. Ready to play? Let’s turn the page.
Who Is Stephanie Garber? A Quick Intro to the Queen of Fairy-Tale Fantasy
Stephanie Garber burst onto the scene with her debut novel, Carava, in 2017, a book that snagged a spot on the New York Times bestseller list and launched a phenomenon. Drawing inspiration from classic fairy tales and her love for immersive storytelling, Garber crafts worlds where emotions run high, secrets simmer, and love is as perilous as it is passionate. Her signature style? Lavish prose, unreliable narrators, and endings that leave you breathless (and begging for more).
By 2025, Garber will have eight books under her belt, spanning two interconnected series and a tantalizing standalone. Her stories aren’t just reads—they’re experiences. Fans rave about the slow-burn romances, the atmospheric settings (think glittering islands and cursed forests), and themes of self-discovery amid betrayal. If you’ve ever wished for a book boyfriend like the enigmatic Jacks or a game as addictive as Caraval itself, Garber delivers.
Pro tip: Her books share a universe, so reading in publication order preserves the Easter eggs and cameos that make rereads so rewarding. But if you’re series-focused, jump between them after the first Caraval trilogy.
Stephanie Garber Books: Complete Series List in Order
To make it easy to dive into Stephanie Garber’s enchanting worlds, here’s a complete list of all her books, organized by series (and standalone). I’ve structured it in a table format below, showing the series name, book title, and publication order within each series. This follows publication order for the best experience, preserving connections and cameos across the shared universe. Dates are included for reference.
| Series | Book # | Title | Publication Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caraval Series | 1 | Caraval | January 31, 2017 |
| 2 | Legendary | May 29, 2018 | |
| 3 | Finale | May 7, 2019 | |
| 4 | Spectacular (novella) | October 22, 2024 | |
| Once Upon a Broken Heart Series | 1 | Once Upon a Broken Heart | September 28, 2021 |
| 2 | The Ballad of Never After | September 13, 2022 | |
| 3 | A Curse for True Love | October 24, 2023 | |
| Standalone | 1 | Alchemy of Secrets | October 7, 2025 |
Stephanie Garber Books in Order: Publication Timeline
Here’s the full lineup, straight from the source. I’ve included release dates and quick, spoiler-free hooks to get you hooked. Grab your tea (or a cursed apple) and let’s dive in.
The Caraval Series: Where Games Become Destiny
This trilogy-plus-one follows the fierce Dragna sisters, Scarlett and Tella, as they unravel family mysteries in a world ruled by magic, Fates, and a mysterious showman named Legend. It’s the perfect entry point—think The Night Circus meets Alice in Wonderland with a romantic edge. Read to follow the escalating stakes and sisterly bonds.
- Caraval (January 31, 2017) Scarlett Dragna has always dreamed of attending the legendary Caraval, a once-a-year game where wishes come true—if you can win. But when her impulsive sister Tella vanishes into the show, Scarlett must team up with a charming stranger to find her, only to discover that in Caraval, nothing is as it seems. It’s a dazzling debut full of riddles, romance, and that “just one more chapter” pull.
- Legendary (May 29, 2018) Shifting focus to Tella, this sequel amps up the glamour as she hunts for her long-lost mother during a high-society Caraval edition. Bargains with a devilish prince and awakening ancient powers force Tella to question everything she knows about fate—and herself. Deeper, darker, and twice as addictive.
- Finale (May 7, 2019) The trilogy closer ties up the sisters’ arcs with epic confrontations against the villainous Fallen Star and the Fates themselves. Scarlett grapples with her hidden heritage, while Tella risks it all for love and legacy: heart-wrenching, triumphant, and the ultimate payoff for fans.
- Spectacular (October 22, 2024) A festive novella-length epilogue set during a snowy Valendan holiday, this gem reunites Tella with Legend for one last magical escapade. Doubts creep in as Tella uncovers a “gift” that’s equal parts surprise and seduction. Short, sweet, and the perfect palate cleanser before her next adventure—ideal for cozy winter reading.
The Once Upon a Broken Heart Series: Curses, Keys, and Cursed Princes
This spin-off expands the Caraval universe, starring Evangeline Fox in a tale of broken promises and forbidden magic. It picks up threads like the Prince of Hearts (Jacks) and the Valory Arch prophecy, making it richer if you’ve read Caraval first—but standalone enough for newbies. Expect fairy-tale vibes with a gothic twist.
- Once Upon a Broken Heart (September 28, 2021). Desperate to stop her love from marrying another, Evangeline strikes a deal with the infamous Jacks, the Prince of Hearts. What follows is a whirlwind of enchanted balls, royal intrigue, and a marriage neither saw coming. Garber’s magic shines in this propulsive start to a new saga.
- The Ballad of Never After (September 13, 2022) Evangeline’s quest for truth leads her on a stone-hunting odyssey through cursed lands, dodging vampires, rival heirs, and Jack’s shadowy influence. Betrayals abound, but so does the spark of unexpected alliances. A fan-favorite for its emotional depth and swoony tension.
- A Curse for True Love (October 24, 2023) Waking with amnesia in a gilded cage, Evangeline must piece together her shattered past amid illusions and power plays. As memories flood back, she confronts the cost of true love in a world where every kiss could be fatal. A satisfying (if tear-jerking) conclusion that echoes Caraval’s themes.
Standalone: A Fresh Start in the Garber-verse
- Alchemy of Secrets (October 7, 2025) Fresh off the presses, this standalone transports college student Holland St. James into a hidden magical underbelly of Los Angeles. A death prediction sends her on a clue-chasing hunt for the Alchemical Heart, guarded by enigmatic allies and deceivers. Urban fantasy meets Garber’s whimsical peril—perfect if you love her style but crave a quick, self-contained thrill.
Pro Tips for Reading Stephanie Garber Books: Maximize the Magic
- Best Starting Point? Begin with Caraval for the full immersion. The Once Upon a Broken Heart series slots in beautifully afterward, with cameos that feel like reunions with old friends.
- Chronological vs. Publication Order: Stick to publication—it’s how the lore unfolds naturally. (No major time jumps to worry about!)
- Themes to Savor: Sisterhood, the thrill of the unknown, and love as both curse and cure. Garber’s books are escapist gold for YA/NA fantasy lovers.
- Pairing Suggestions: Read Caraval with a playlist of haunting violins; Once Upon a Broken Heart under fairy lights for that enchanted vibe.
Why You Need Stephanie Garber on Your Shelf in 2025
In a year packed with blockbusters, Garber’s blend of romance, mystery, and whimsy stands out like a glowing invitation in the mail. Her latest, Alchemy of Secrets, proves she’s only getting better at hooking readers with fresh spins on her signature magic. Whether you’re chasing the high of a first read or revisiting for those gut-punch twists, these books remind us: Sometimes, the best stories are the ones that break your heart just to mend it stronger.
What’s your favorite Garber moment—the Caraval clues, Jack’s smirks, or Tella’s fire? Drop a comment below, and if this guide helped plot your next binge, share it with a fellow bookworm. Happy reading—may your wishes come true (but watch out for the fine print)!
Looking for more? Check out our guides to Sarah J. Maas books in order or Rebecca Yarros’ list.
