THE WICKED KING - Holly Black

“𝑷𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒔 𝒎𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒊𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒄𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒅 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒐.”

Goodreads rating - 4.30/5 
My rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 

Genre - Fantasy, YA, Romance

It is a gripping and intense sequel to "The Cruel Prince," pulling readers even deeper into the dangerous and enchanting world of Faerie. With a plot full of intrigue, complicated relationships, and a beautifully crafted setting, this novel is a must-read for fans of the series.

The story picks up with Jude Duarte, who has positioned herself as the power behind the throne after discovering that her brother, Oak, is the true heir to Faerie. To protect him, Jude has bound King Cardan to her will, but controlling him is far from easy. Cardan is constantly trying to undermine her, adding a layer of tension to their already tumultuous relationship.

Jude's quest for power and control is at the heart of this book. Navigating the shifting political landscape of Faerie, she must remain strong and vigilant. Her journey is filled with danger and betrayal, and Holly Black does an excellent job of portraying Jude's inner struggle. Jude is determined and ruthless, yet she also shows vulnerability, especially when it comes to her complicated feelings for Cardan.

Cardan remains a fascinating character. His relationship with Jude is complex and filled with tension. He is both her antagonist and her reluctant ally, and their interactions are some of the most compelling parts of the story. The mix of animosity, attraction, and cooperation between them keeps readers hooked.

The plot is fast-paced and full of twists. Jude discovers that someone close to her plans to betray her, putting her life and the lives of those she loves in jeopardy. The suspense builds as she tries to uncover the traitor, and the sense of danger is ever-present. Holly Black’s writing keeps you on the edge of your seat, blending intrigue and action seamlessly.