Reviewed by Jessica Dawson

Oh, Finale! Where do I even begin? If the Caraval series were a perfectly brewed cup of magic, Finale is that last delightful sip that lingers on your tongue long after the drink is gone. Stephanie Garber really outdid herself with this breathtaking conclusion, leaving me equal parts dazzled and emotionally wrecked (in the best way possible).

First of all, can we talk about how Garber wrapped up the story? It’s like she took every single thread from the first two books, wove them into an intricate tapestry, and then sprinkled it with glitter and heartbreak. The stakes in Finale are higher than ever, with love, loyalty, and freedom all on the line. Every character’s arc feels satisfying and earned—there’s closure, but also just enough open-ended intrigue to make you hunger for more. (Spoiler alert: more is exactly what we get in the Once Upon a Broken Heart series!)

Speaking of characters, Tella and Scarlett are at their absolute best here. Tella continues to be a fearless queen of sass, while Scarlett proves she’s more than just the careful older sister. Their growth is so rewarding to witness, and their love interests? Oh, let’s just say that Dante and Julian bring enough charm and chaos to make your heart race faster than Legend’s magical games ever did. And Legend himself? Mysterious, infuriating, and utterly impossible not to root for.

But let’s be honest: Garber’s writing is the real star of the show. Her prose is like poetry that drank too much champagne—it’s lush, intoxicating, and just a little wild. The way she describes emotions, settings, and magic makes it all feel so vivid and alive. I could practically see the sparkling lights of the Midnight Maze, feel the tension in every stolen glance, and hear the echo of each whispered secret.

Now, about that segue into Once Upon a Broken Heart—Garber leaves you wanting more in all the right ways. While Finale ties up the major storylines beautifully, it also opens a door to an entirely new world of magic and mischief. By the time you turn the last page, you’re ready to dive headfirst into Evangeline Fox’s adventures, chasing after enchanted apples and making questionable deals with a certain Prince of Hearts. (Hi, Jacks. We see you.)

In short, Finale is everything you could want in a series closer and more. It’s a love letter to the fans, a celebration of magic, and an invitation to dream a little bigger. If you haven’t read it yet, what are you even doing? And if you’re about to pick up Once Upon a Broken Heart, trust me: you’ll want to soak up every bit of Finale first. Stephanie Garber has truly outdone herself, and I’m already counting down the days until her next book sweeps me off my feet.

Five out of five stars, endless sighs, and a thousand swoons later, I’m still not over it. And honestly? I hope I never am.