The Wicked King by Holly Black

Rating: 3.5 stars

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This might be an unpopular opinion but I found The Wicked King to be weaker and less enjoyable when compared to The Cruel Prince. This book follows Jude as the seneschal to the newly crowned High King of Elfhame, Cardan. Jude struggles throughout the book to fit into her new role and realises that getting the crown is far easier than actually keeping it.

The main drawback with this book was the lack of a clear story arc. The ambiguity of the storyline made me less inclined to actually continue the series. But so many people told me to stick with it and I am truly glad that I did. But gosh, it took me so long to finish it! I found that once I past the 70% mark the book picked up pace, but it was so slow before that! Each interaction was tiresome to read and without a clear goal in the storyline, I just couldn't get into it.

I still enjoyed the book overall and would recommend it. But do not expect that the romance to be a central part of book 2. It's barely there at all. However, the political intrigue is interesting to read about and well worth your time. Once I got to the ending I rushed to pick up the third book in the series.