Wicked King by Holly Black (608)

The Wicked King by Holly Black is the explosive second book in the bestselling Folk of the Air trilogy. Known for its sharp political drama, dark faerie worldbuilding, and addictive enemies-to-lovers tension between Jude and Cardan, this sequel raises the stakes in every way. Holly Black delivers a twisting tale of power, deception, and ambition set in the dangerous land of Elfhame.

⭐ Overview of The Wicked King

Published in 2019, The Wicked King continues the story from The Cruel Prince. Jude Duarte, a human raised in the faerie world, has finally achieved a fragile position of control—but holding on to that power is far harder than gaining it. In Elfhame, loyalty shifts like shadows and every alliance comes with a hidden blade.

Holly Black blends high political stakes with emotional conflict, creating a fantasy world where beauty and danger coexist. The book is packed with schemes, betrayals, and unforgettable character dynamics.

⭐ Spoiler-Free Plot Summary

Five months after the events of the first book, Jude works behind the scenes as the power behind the crown. Cardan may be the High King in title, but she manipulates him from the shadows after forcing him into a temporary bargain.

But power in Elfhame is never stable.

As rival courts threaten war, spies move in secrecy, and Jude’s control grows increasingly fragile. Her enemies—both faerie and mortal—study her every weakness. Cardan, unpredictable and charming, becomes even more difficult to manage. The more power Jude gains, the more dangerous her world becomes.

The tension between Jude and Cardan intensifies as both characters struggle with trust, attraction, and betrayal. Their relationship, full of sharp dialogue and emotional complexity, is one of the biggest highlights of the book.

The final twist is shocking and sets the stage for The Queen of Nothing.

⭐ Major Characters

Jude Duarte

A fierce, ambitious human determined to survive and dominate in a faerie world that despises her. Her intelligence and strategy drive the political plot.

Cardan Greenbriar

The new High King of Elfhame—beautiful, reckless, and far more cunning than he appears. His unpredictable nature keeps Jude constantly off balance.

Taryn Duarte

Jude’s twin sister, whose choices create emotional conflict and tension.

Madoc

A master strategist and Jude’s adoptive father. His political goals make him both a mentor and a threat.

⭐ Key Themes

1. Power and Consequences

The novel explores what it means to take power—and what it costs to keep it.

2. Trust and Betrayal

Every alliance in Elfhame is risky. Jude and Cardan constantly test each other’s limits in a love-hate dynamic.

3. Identity and Ambition

Jude’s struggle to prove herself in a world that sees her as inferior highlights themes of resilience and self-determination.

4. Dangerous Beauty

Elfhame is enchanting, yet deadly—mirroring the dual nature of many characters.

⭐ Why Readers Love The Wicked King

• Intensely addictive political intrigue

• Brilliant character development

• Rich, dangerous worldbuilding

• Unforgettable Jude–Cardan tension

• A shocking ending that fans still talk about

Holly Black’s writing is sharp, immersive, and emotionally gripping, making this one of the strongest sequels in YA fantasy.

⭐ Who Should Read This Book?

This novel is perfect for fans of:

• fantasy court politics

• enemies-to-lovers romance

• twist-heavy plots

• morally complex characters

• richly imagined faerie worlds

If you enjoyed The Cruel Prince, this sequel is essential.