Author: Holly Black
Genre: Fantasy
Published in 2018
Rating: ★★★★☆ – 4/5
“If I cannot be better than them, I will become so much worse.”
– The Cruel Prince
In “The Cruel Prince,” Holly Black creates a dark and twisted tale of ambition, betrayal, and power set in the treacherous world of Faerie. The story follows Jude Duarte, a mortal girl who, along with her two sisters, is abducted to live in the High Court of Faerie after her parents are murdered. Struggling to find her place in a world where humans are despised and used, Jude is determined to carve out her path to power—no matter what it takes. As she navigates the politics of the faerie court, she’s forced to confront her dark desires and the cruelty that comes with power.
– Jude “Fake it till you make it” Duarte –
Jude is a fierce and determined protagonist who refuses to be underestimated by the faeries who look down on her. She’s not afraid to get her hands dirty, whether it’s through deception, combat, or outmaneuvering her enemies. Her complexity lies in her struggle between wanting to belong and her desire for power, making her a compelling character to follow.
– Cardan “The prince who puts the ‘fun’ in dysfunctional” Greenbriar –
Cardan is the cruel prince of the title, a faerie noble who embodies the ruthlessness of his world. His relationship with Jude is filled with tension, as they clash and manipulate each other in a dangerous game of power. Cardan’s character unfolds in layers, revealing vulnerabilities and hidden depths that make him more than just the typical antagonist.
– My Honest Review –
“The Cruel Prince” is a gripping start to Holly Black’s Folk of the Air series, with its rich world-building, complex characters, and plot twists that keep you hooked.
Holly Black’s writing is sharp and evocative, perfectly capturing the dangerous allure of Faerie. While the book delves into dark themes, it’s also full of intrigue and cunning strategies that make it a thrilling read. Jude’s transformation from a powerless mortal to a force to be reckoned with is a stirring ride, and while the first book is fantastic, the series only gets better.
If you enjoy dark fantasy with morally complex characters and a plot full of twists and turns, “The Cruel Prince” is a must-read and a great opening to the Fantasy genre.
Happy Reading!
