Of course I want to be like them. They’re beautiful as blades forged in some divine 
fire. They will live forever.
And Cardan is even more beautiful than the rest. I hate him more than all the others. I hate him so much that sometimes when I look at him, I can hardly breathe.
Jude was seven when her parents were murdered and she and her two sisters were stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. Ten years later, Jude wants nothing more than to belong there, despite her mortality. But many of the fey despise humans. Especially Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King.
To win a place at the Court, she must defy him–and face the consequences.
As Jude becomes more deeply embroiled in palace intrigues and deceptions, she discovers her own capacity for trickery and bloodshed. But as betrayal threatens to drown the Courts of Faerie in violence, Jude will need to risk her life in a dangerous alliance to save her sisters, and Faerie itself.
I’ve seen this book on more ‘Best Of 2018’ lists than I can count. Holly Black is a talented and widely read author, but I’ve never gotten around to any of her books, despite having The Coldest Girl in Coldtown on my shelf for over a year. With strong reviews, several friend recommendations, and a discounted Amazon day, how could I not read The Cruel Prince?
Admittedly, I haven’t read many books involving the Fae, so much of this world was new to me. And the world-building is magnificent – dark, intriguing, and politically charged. The political maneuvering, alliances, and manipulation really captured my attention – some of these characters would fit in well with House of Cards.
And that’s another thing I liked: none of these characters are entirely ‘good’. Many of them desire power and position, while others enjoy bullying, threats, and playing with the lives of others. And I’m okay with that – I love to see shades of gray in characters. In fact, it’s the primary reason I kept reading. Twists are aplenty in this book – some of them I saw coming, others I didn’t until right before they happened.
People may throw rocks and garbage at me for saying this, but the first half of the book didn’t win me over. Not a lot happens, but right around the 50% mark, the pace becomes turbo charged and never lets up.
Overall, I enjoyed The Cruel Prince, and I plan to continue the series with The Wicked King, but when that will be, I have no idea. I need a month long vacation just to read!
Books and Such 
No “rocks and garbage” from me. We each have our own reading preferences. I’m glad you enjoyed the second half of the book!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Exactly, Priscilla – I’ve loved books that others haven’t cared for. And yes, the second half really took off, and I’ve heard the second book in the series is even better.
LikeLike
I won’t throw anything at you. I always appreciate your candor.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks, Staci – less bruises!
LikeLiked by 1 person
if there’s any garbage and rocks to be thrown, it’s at me. I dnfed this book way before i got to the half. in fact, i think i was at a ball, way at the beginning when i did.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I honestly thought about it, Jina, but I kept going because of recommendations from friends and it was a book club selection. I’m glad I finished it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve seen others say the same thing about it being slow in the first half too, so I don’t think you’re alone. Excellent review! I’m looking forward to starting the series. 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think I saw that in a couple of other reviews also. The slow pace in the first half surprised me because I’d read all the rave reviews. Hope you enjoy it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have seen another review of this book somewhere, Teri. The Fae sound eerie and frightening.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I liked learning about that world, Robbie. I enjoy paranormal, so I’m surprised I haven’t read more fae books.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love this series and am currently on book three, it’s worth reading on.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I thought the second book was just released last month – do you have an ARC of book 3?
LikeLiked by 1 person
No, I’m so sorry, Teri, I got confused, it’s the second book I’ve got. lol
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’d have been the envy of a lot of readers if you had an ARC of the third, lol!
LikeLike
I used to read a ton of books on the Fae. That realm has always fascinated me!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m definitely interested in reading more about them – not sure why I haven’t before, Mae.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Teri I am so HAPPY that you loved it and fro the exact same reasons I did too! Characters in all shades of grey are Holly’s specialty and that’s what I love so much about her stories!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Then I’ve been missing out all these years not reading her books – can’t believe it’s taken me this long, Sophie!
LikeLike
I loved The Cruel Prince, but I have to say, I get why people liked it, but The Wicked King just didn’t do it for me! I’m hoping I enjoy the next book more
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re the first person I’ve heard say that – the reviews I’ve seen are saying it’s better than The Cruel Prince, lol. Like we mentioned above, everyone has their own reading preference.
LikeLike
Yeeeh I’m definitely in the minority on this one!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve seen mixed reviews of this book, but it looks so intriguing. I like flawed characters and the excerpt was good. Might have to pick it up!
LikeLiked by 1 person
There were flaws all over the place, Diana, lol – the characterization was complex and layered. You’d definitely enjoy that part.
LikeLiked by 2 people
This looks fantastic. I’ve had Black’s The Darkest Part of the Forest on my shelf for…two years? I’ve tried but can’t seem to get into that one. I’m taking a look at this one, though. Thanks for sharing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Haven’t read that one either, but I’ve seen good reviews for it. Maybe you’ll enjoy this one more, Sarah!
LikeLiked by 1 person