The Folk of the Air · Book 1 of 3 in The Folk of the Air series
The Cruel Prince
Reading DNA
What kind of read is this?
The Cruel Prince delivers a richly imagined faerie world filled with political intrigue, dark romance, and morally complex characters who will keep you guessing until the final pages. Holly Black crafts a story where intelligence and strategy matter as much as magic, creating a slow-burn tale that rewards patient readers with shocking twists and a protagonist who refuses to be powerless.
About This Book
Jude and her sister Taryn were stolen away to the magical realm of Faerie as children and have spent ten years navigating its treacherous courts and dangerous politics. When Jude catches the attention of the Crown Prince Cardan, she must use her wits and cunning to survive in a world where mortals are despised and nothing is as it seems. Her path to power will require her to make dangerous alliances and dark bargains that could cost her everything.
Moods & Vibes
Dark and Sinister
Tense and Political
Darkly Witty
Sensual
Vengeful
Book Profile
PaceFast
World-building depthRich
Darkness levelDark
RomanceModerate
Plot vs Character driven
Series commitment
Perfect For
Dark fantasy lovers
Faerie world enthusiasts
Political intrigue fans
Readers seeking morally gray characters
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