Book Review: The Wicked King by Holly Black
When I first dove into The Cruel Prince, the intricate world of Faerie captivated me. As the sequel, The Wicked King promised to up the ante, and oh, did it deliver. Holly Black has a masterful way of weaving complex characters into a richly imagined tapestry of politics, betrayals, and fierce emotions. I found myself both thrilled and tortured by Jude’s journey, and I couldn’t wait to see how her story would unfold.
Set against the backdrop of a treacherous Faerie court, the book finds Jude grappling with newfound power as the “power behind the throne.” The stakes are impossibly high, not just for her own survival, but for her brother Oak, who, as the heir to Faerie, is at the very center of the storm. This duality of protective sister and power player is brilliantly portrayed, showcasing Jude’s fierce determination and the immense weight of her choices.
The chemistry between Jude and Cardan is electric. Their dance of dominance and submission, of hatred mixed with undeniable attraction, kept me hooked. Cardan remains a beautifully flawed character—a wicked king with layers that reveal both vulnerability and depth. This interplay between them adds a tantalizing layer to the political maneuverings of Elfhame, providing both tension and an intriguing emotional core. As Jude attempts to control him, their relationship evolves in ways that are both heartbreaking and exhilarating.
Holly Black’s writing is nothing short of magical. The prose flows with an almost lyrical quality that draws you into every vivid detail. I especially appreciated how she skillfully balances action with quiet introspection, allowing us moments to breathe amid the chaos. However, I must admit that some sections felt a tad drawn-out, as Jude navigates a web of political entanglements that occasionally slowed the pacing.
One of my favorite moments was when Jude muses about strength: “You must be strong enough to strike and strike and strike again without tiring.” This quote resonated deeply, encapsulating the resilience required not only in Faerie but in life itself. It’s a reminder that vulnerability can coexist with strength, a theme beautifully echoed in Jude’s character arc.
On a compelling note, readers familiar with Black’s work know that she excels at cliffhangers and shocking revelations. When the stakes culminate, you won’t be prepared for the twist that leaves Jude facing a daunting exile. It’s a bold move that has me desperate for the next installment.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Wicked King to anyone who enjoys a blend of dark fantasy, strong character development, and intricate plots. If you loved the first book, this installment is an essential read that deepens both the stakes and the characters you’ve come to adore.
Reading this book was a whirlwind of emotions, and the journey felt both satisfying and unbearably suspenseful. As I flipped to the last page, I couldn’t help but reflect on the resilience of Jude and the haunting beauty of Black’s world—a reminder that sometimes, to gain power, you must confront your own heart. Happy reading!
You can find The Wicked King (The Folk of the Air, 2) here >>