A review by matcha_pages
The Wicked King by Holly Black

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

3.5

The Wicked King centers around Jude doing everything she can to keep her position of power. The first half of the book was slower than I'd like, we're introduced to new characters and the evolving political tensions in the Faerie realm. The investment in this groundwork pays off in the second half, the characters start to make power plays resulting in dramatic results and betrayals. We get to see new sides of characters that really highlight the cunning and cruelty of the Fae.

Jude, unfortunately, was a mixed bag didn't resonate with me as I hoped. I can't quite put my finger on it but I don't like the direction she's going. I get the author is portraying Jude as a human in Faerie, so she wavers between sides so to speak. It's rather frustrating because it holds her back, but maybe that's the point? Jude is very heavy handed, kind of like the writing at times.  Cardan is the opposite, he's not as he seems. He's enigmatic nature and intricate relationships really dial up the political intrigue. 
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