Books in the series The Folk of the Air

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black is a gripping and atmospheric dive into the treacherous world of Elfhame. Jude, a mortal girl stolen away to the High Court of Faerie after her parents' murder, must navigate a world where she is despised for her humanity. To survive and find a place where she truly belongs, she must outmaneuver the wicked Prince Cardan and become a master of the very deceptions the fey are known for. This book is perfect for readers who love dark fantasy, complex political intrigue, and high-stakes drama.

Ideal for fans of enemies-to-lovers tropes and strong, morally grey protagonists, this story explores the thin line between hate and passion. As Jude becomes embroiled in palace secrets and a looming civil war, she discovers her own capacity for ruthlessness. It is a great choice for teens looking for a sophisticated fantasy series with rich world-building and sharp, clever writing. Readers who enjoyed other high-stakes fantasy series will find themselves captivated by Jude's journey for power.

Highlights:

• Intense political intrigue and power struggles within a magical court.
• A fierce and determined mortal protagonist navigating a world of immortals.
• Complex, enemies-to-lovers character dynamics that keep readers hooked.
• Richly detailed world-building based on traditional faerie folklore.

The Wicked King is the high-stakes, spellbinding sequel to Holly Black's The Cruel Prince. In this installment of The Folk of the Air series, Jude Duarte finds herself in a precarious position of power. Having bound the volatile King Cardan to her will, she must navigate the treacherous waters of Faerie politics while keeping her younger brother, Oak, safe. This book is perfect for readers who love intricate world-building, morally complex characters, and the intense 'enemies-to-lovers' dynamic.

As Jude struggles to maintain control, she faces constant threats from both external enemies and those within the court. The tension between Jude and Cardan reaches a breaking point, blending political maneuvering with a simmering, complicated romance. Ideal for fans of Sarah J. Maas or Leigh Bardugo, this novel explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and what it means to be a mortal in a world of immortal magic. It is a great choice for teens looking for a dark, atmospheric fantasy with a strong, resilient female lead who must outsmart everyone around her.

Highlights:

• Intense political intrigue and courtly betrayal.
• A complex, high-tension relationship between Jude and Cardan.
• Immersive world-building centered on dark Faerie folklore.
• A fast-paced plot with shocking twists and high stakes.

The Queen of Nothing is the breathtaking conclusion to Holly Black’s bestselling The Folk of the Air trilogy. After being exiled by the wicked King Cardan, Jude Duarte finds herself a mortal queen without a throne, biding her time in the human world. However, when her twin sister Taryn’s life is threatened, Jude must risk everything to return to the treacherous Faerie Court. Back in Elfhame, she finds a kingdom on the brink of war and a dormant curse that threatens to destroy everything she has fought for. Jude is forced to navigate bloody politics and her own complicated feelings for the king who betrayed her.

This novel is a perfect choice for readers who love high-stakes fantasy and complex, morally grey characters. It is ideal for fans of the 'enemies-to-lovers' trope and those who enjoy intricate world-building rooted in dark folklore. Parents looking for a gripping series for older teens will find this a great choice for readers interested in themes of power, resilience, and the struggle between ambition and humanity. The fast-paced plot and sharp dialogue make it a must-read for anyone who enjoyed the previous installments in the series.

Highlights:

• The epic and satisfying finale to the acclaimed Folk of the Air trilogy.
• Intense political intrigue and clever power plays within the Faerie Court.
• A compelling and complex romance that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
• Explores deep themes of belonging, sacrifice, and the weight of leadership.