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39 pages 1 hour read

The Wicked King

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Holly Black

The Wicked King

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Elfhame • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

2019

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

The Wicked King follows Jude Duarte, who navigates political intrigue and growing danger in the Faerie court as she serves as an advisor to Cardan, the High King. She uncovers plans for an attack by the Undersea, faces betrayal, and takes drastic steps to protect her loved ones and secure her power. The novel addresses themes including betrayal, power struggles, and loyalty.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Fantastical

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

894,189 ratings

85%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Holly Black’s The Wicked King captivates with intricate political intrigue, complex characters, and an immersive faerie world, earning praise for its compelling plot and dark fantasy elements. However, some readers felt the pacing was uneven and noted a lack of character development. Overall, it’s a gripping sequel that maintains interest through its twists and courtly machinations.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Wicked King?

Readers who enjoy dark fantasy, intricate political intrigue, and morally complex characters will be captivated by Holly Black's The Wicked King. Comparable to fans of Sarah J. Maas's Throne of Glass series and Leigh Bardugo's Six of Crows, this novel appeals to those who relish in high-stakes court drama and elaborate plots.

4.4

894,189 ratings

85%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Jude

A tactical and ambitious mortal girl living in the faerie realm, who contends with discrimination while striving for a place of power and worth in the faerie courts.

Jude’s twin sister, who seeks acceptance and belonging through marriage and maintaining loyalty to their family, especially in a society that discriminates against them.

The young High King of Faerie, who navigates the unexpected responsibilities of his role while balancing his complex relationship with Jude.

The Grand General of the High King’s army and father figure to Jude and Taryn, known for his strategic mind and inclination toward conflict.

Cardan’s closest friend and Taryn’s betrothed, who revels in creating discomfort and approaches life as a lighthearted game.

Daughter of the Undersea queen, who holds a position of privilege and grapples with her feelings for Cardan and rivalry with Jude.

Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Elfhame • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

2019

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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