A review by ariellesbookreviews
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

5.0

It took two attempts for me to finish The Cruel Prince, by Holly Black. During my first attempt, several years ago, I stopped reading the book after Cardan ripped the wings off another Fae within the first several pages. I wasn’t interested in reading a book that is where the romance is bullies-to-romance rather than enemies-to-romance. I decided to start the book again after encouragement from a friend who had completed the series and from reviews I saw on TikTok. My first impression was incorrect and this book is about much more than romance. This book is about a women’s grab for power in a world that continually underestimates and belittles her. Jude is a strong and flawed human heroine who lusts for power in the fae world. She is constantly out to prove that she can not only survive in the fae kingdom but thrive! The book had several twists and turns and I was surprised by the ending. It’s clear Jude is continually adapting her plans to new circumstances allowing the reader to be kept on the edge of their seat. Jude's romantic relationship with Cardan isn't a plot point in this story. Black leaves room for their romance to develop but spends most of the novel focusing on Jude's relations with herself and the fairy world. I’m excited to read the next book and would recommend this novel to readers who enjoy fantasy novels about the inner workings of the monarchy and court! Overall I would give this book 4.5 stars.