A review by miss_berry315
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Re-read review. Changing rating to 4⭐  
Love how strong and badass Jude is.
The writing and flow of the story are something to get used to, but it works well.
it feels almost like an unreliable narrator in the way that since we are in Jude's mind, we get everything the way she interprets it. She sees what she wants to see and tells the reader what she wants us to know.
Poor Cardan is just a sad, hurt lil dude who admires the way Jude handles her shit. He's just bad at flirting bc he's scared to get close to people and he deserves a hug and kiss on the forehead and to be told he's doing a good job!!


Original review:
This book had kind of a slow start to it, but about 30% in, I was hooked. 
The characters are complex and feel (mostly) realistic, the courtly politics kept me guessing. I wanted to slap Jude the whole damn book, but her decisions make sense for who she is, and that's what makes it so good! 
So glad the next books are out so I can keep reading! 

Expand filter menu Content Warnings