A review by shelbisreading
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

adventurous medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.0

Having put off reading The Cruel Prince for quite some time, I finally picked it up this April. However, my experience with the book left much to be desired, leading me to give it a two-star rating. What didn't quite resonate with me was its reliance on tropes similar to those found in much fantasy works (particularly Sarah J Maas books), but somehow lacking the same magic. The introduction of various fairy types felt more like a checklist than a natural part of the story, disrupting its flow. Nonetheless, my love for Spiderwick motivated me to continue reading, but I don't think I'll be continuing the series. Holly Black is such a cool lady and author so absolutely no disrespect! Just not for me.