A review by jadiejane
The Wicked King by Holly Black

3.0

Okay, so. This second instalment of the 'Folk of the Air' series was more enjoyable than the first. However, I preferred the descriptions and situations that happened within the story in 'The Cruel Prince' more than in 'The Wicked King'. Because in this book everything just felt so empty while I was reading it. What I didn't like most about this book was the ending. Well, the ending before the ending, were Cardan threatens to use his powers to overwhelm Orlagh. 

The whole book was building up to the 'war' between the folk who live on the land and the undersea. And then it just doesn't happen...or rather, it just ends without any REAL fulfilment for the reader. I mean, what was the relevance of the overall turning plot points in this book if not for the war and the situations it caused to have not happened? I understand that Cardan making an island emerge from the sea showcases his power. But I wish there would've been more after that.

Oh, and the fact that Cardan processes this certain kind of power that the kings of Elfhame obtain is so interesting and magical, but is never really explored is such a shame. I hope in the last book I get to read more about this magic and it's limits within the world of Fae.

I won't be reading 'The Queen of Nothing' any time soon. I need a break from this series, I love it and hate it at the same time. Much like the relationship between Jude and Cardan!