Once Upon a Broken Heart
#1 of 3 in Once Upon a Broken Heart Series
on Goodreads (501,564)
What’s inside...
Evangeline Fox, who has always believed in true love and happy endings, is devastated when she learns that her love is marrying someone else. In a desperate attempt to stop the wedding, she strikes a deal with the wicked Prince of Hearts, trading three kisses for his help. However, Evangeline soon discovers that bargaining with an immortal carries dangerous risks, and the Prince of Hearts has sinister plans that could lead to either the greatest happily ever after or the most tragic end. A new series about love, curses, and the lengths that people will go to for happily ever after. For as long as she can remember, Evangeline Fox has believed in true love and happy endings... until she learns that the love of her life will marry another. Desperate to stop the wedding and to heal her wounded heart, Evangeline strikes a deal with the charismatic, but wicked, Prince of Hearts. In exchange for his help, he asks for three kisses, to be given at the time and place of his choosing. But after Evangeline’s first promised kiss, she learns that bargaining with an immortal is a dangerous game and that the Prince of Hearts wants far more from her than she’d pledged. He has plans for Evangeline, plans that will either end in the greatest happily ever after, or the most exquisite tragedy.
Character compass
Evangeline Fox
Lala
Prince Apollo
Luc Navarro
Marisol Tourmaline
Jacks
Apollo Acadian
Ariel “LaLa” Lagrimas
Chaos
Discussion points
How do you think Evangeline's feelings change throughout the story, and what events influence those changes?
What would you do if you were in Evangeline’s place when offered a deal by Jacks? Would you accept his terms?
What role do you think magic plays in the decisions characters make? Can you think of any examples where magic influenced someone's choice?
What do you think about the choices made by the characters? Are there any decisions you would have made differently?
How does the idea of fate versus free will appear in the story, and which moments highlight this theme?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the discussion, encourage your child to think about the main characters and their motives; understanding motivations can lead to deeper insights.
Ask your child to summarize parts of the book in their own words. This can reveal what they remember and consider important.
Encourage your child to relate the characters' experiences, especially Evangeline's, to their own life. This can create a personal connection with the story.
Create a comfortable and open atmosphere where the child feels free to express their thoughts and feelings about the book's events and characters without judgment.
Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing how different characters might have felt in various situations throughout the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of resilience
Explanation: The protagonist of the story, Evangeline, faces numerous challenges and setbacks throughout her journey. Despite these obstacles, she remains determined and resilient.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth and development, knowing that persistence can lead to achieving their goals.
Example Lesson: Understanding the consequences of choices
Explanation: Evangeline makes a deal with Jacks, the Prince of Hearts, which sets off a chain of events. She learns that each choice carries weight and consequences.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to think carefully before making decisions, understanding that their actions affect not only themselves but also those around them.
Example Lesson: The power of love and compassion
Explanation: Throughout the story, Evangeline's actions are motivated by love and the desire to protect her loved ones. This highlights the strength and influence of love and compassion in overcoming adversity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and cultivate compassionate relationships, recognizing how these bonds can provide support and strength in difficult times.
Example Lesson: The significance of personal integrity
Explanation: Evangeline's journey is also one of self-discovery and staying true to her values, even when faced with difficult choices.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to develop a strong sense of self and adhere to their principles, which will guide them in making ethical decisions.