Ever since I read the synopsis of THE CRUEL PRINCE this past fall, it jumped to the top of my Most Anticipated Reads of 2018. I am very happy to report back that it completely lived up to my expectations. THE CRUEL PRINCE is cleverly written and a darker twist on the fae folk and you need this on your bookshelf come January.

The 411: At age seven, Jude and her two sisters, Taryn and Vivi, are whisked away to the fae Kingdom of Elfame after the brutal murder of their parents. Their captor, Madoc, is revealed to be the general of the High King Eldred, a past lover of their mother, and Vivi’s birth father.

Fast-forward ten years, the sisters are still in Elfame, but living different lives. Humans are highly looked down upon in Elfame, leading to Jude and Taryn having a difficult time finding friends and fitting in with their peers. One of their key tormentors is the youngest son of High King Eldred, Cardan aka The Cruel Prince.

In an effort to find her place in Elfame, Jude expresses desire to join the court. In order to earn her place, she must form an alliance with another of King Eldred’s sons—in complete defiance of the current order.

GUYSSSSS….BELIEVE THE HYPE. This book is so good. In the past year, I’ve read many books that involve the fae, and while I love this world, I’m always looking for a fresh take and original story. Holly Black delivers this perfectly. I’m going to start devouring her catalog now. I’ve been convinced. THE CRUEL PRINCE has already been optioned for a theatrical release, and I am so invested in whoever plays Cardan.

There’s glamour, intrigue, betrayal, a romance to root for (I’m trash for this ship already), and I cannot wait for the rest of the trilogy.

MY RATING:  ✰✰✰✰1/2
RECOMMENDED FOR: lovers of the world of the fae, who like a darker twist

Thank you Little, Brown Books for my galley. The Cruel Prince is available Jan. 2.