A review by michellefromsomewhere
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

5.0

 This whole series is everything to me. Holly Black has an incredible talent for packing so much punch into so few words. I don't know if single sentences have ever hit me so hard. "There are no fish sticks in Faerie" COME ON. I love Jude. I love Cardan. I love that knowing some folklore enhances your reading (like knowing what Redcaps are, etc) but isn't necessary to enjoy the plot. The world of Elfhame uses familiar lore and yet is so unique and fresh. I love the political intrigue and Jude's journey. The juxtaposition of the mortal world with the faerie world is a bit jarring intentionally and that lets us feel exactly how Jude does. I was so heartbroken for Jude so many times and was cheering for her the ENTIRE time. The relationships were so complicated and nuanced (especially between Jude and Madoc, and Jude and Taryn). This series is basically perfect, and this is an amazing first book that grips you right away. The prologue has more action than some whole books. Just do yourself a favor and read it!