skellington1999 's review for:

How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories by Holly Black

5.0

fast-paced

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I love the immediacy of Cardan’s perspective. Though written in third person, it never loses its intimacy or intrigue, drawing you directly into his world. The narrative offers a deeper look into his character and history, adding layers of complexity that make him even more compelling. It’s fascinating to see how past influences have shaped him and how those same forces continue to echo through his choices and relationships.

What struck me most is the sense of growth and transformation that unfolds, even within a relatively short space. If you read closely, you can trace the arc of a boy becoming a king, and it’s both subtle and powerful. The artwork throughout enhances the story beautifully, giving it a rich, fantastical atmosphere that lingers long after the last page.

This book feels like both an expansion and a culmination—an essential companion to the trilogy that adds depth, insight, and resonance. For fans of the series, it’s an incredibly rewarding read that I wholeheartedly recommend.