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A Court of thorns and Trickery: A Review of The Cruel Prince

 Holly Black's The Cruel Prince takes us to a land of pointy ears and hidden magic – Faerie. But this Faerie isn't all sunshine and rainbows. It's a place where humans are seen as lesser beings, and where danger lurks around every glittering mushroom.

Scene Setting

Our story centers around Jude Duarte, a ten-year-old human girl who, along with her older sister Taryn, is ripped from the human world and forced to live in Faerie with their manipulative new step-father, Madoc. Life in Faerie is tough for a human. Jude and Taryn are constantly reminded of their outsider status, facing prejudice and even cruelty.

But Jude isn't your average human. She's tough, resourceful, and determined to carve out a place for herself in this dangerous world. She learns to navigate the treacherous Fae courts, filled with scheming fairies, deadly bargains, and a whole lot of glitter (because apparently, even evil fairies like to sparkle).

Story Development

The main character, Jude, is what really makes this book shine. She's not a damsel in distress waiting to be rescued. She's a fighter, willing to play the game of Faerie politics to survive and protect her sister. The story explores themes of power, revenge, and what it means to belong. Jude makes some tough choices along the way, blurring the lines between good and evil.

The romance, well, let's just say it's complicated (like most things in Faerie). There's a whole lot of tension and maybe even a hint of manipulation between Jude and the mischievous Prince Cardan. Is he truly cruel, or is there something more to him?

Personal Remarks

Now, the story isn't perfect. There are times when things can feel a bit predictable, and some of the characters (looking at you, Cardan) might leave you wanting more depth. But the world-building is fantastic, and the fast-paced plot keeps you hooked.

Conclusion

Overall, The Cruel Prince is a thrilling and dark fantasy adventure perfect for readers who enjoy a bit of edge to their fairy tales. It's a story about fighting for what you believe in, even when the odds are stacked against you.

If you're looking for a story with a strong female lead, a world brimming with magic, and a romance that's more thorns than roses, then this book is for you. Just be prepared to be surprised by the twists and turns, and maybe a little bit shocked by the characters' morally questionable choices.

~Srijan Agrawal

@sjedious

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