The Cruel Prince - Holly Black

The Cruel Prince is the darkly enchanting first book in Holly Black’s bestselling The Folk of the Air series. It tells the story of Jude, a mortal girl stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie after her parents are murdered.

Despite being despised by many fae for her humanity—especially the cruel and arrogant Prince Cardan—Jude is determined to win a place at the Court, no matter the cost. As she becomes entangled in political conspiracies, betrayals, and deadly games, Jude must navigate a world where beauty is lethal, loyalty is rare, and power comes at a steep price.

Filled with court intrigue, slow-burn enemies-to-lovers tension, and sharp world-building, The Cruel Prince is a seductive, gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and survival.