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The Wicked King summary
Brief summary
The Wicked King by Holly Black is a thrilling fantasy novel filled with political intrigue, dark magic, and a complex romance. It follows Jude, a mortal girl fighting for power in the treacherous and captivating world of the fae.
Table of Contents
The Wicked King
Summary of key ideas
The Power Struggle in Faerie
In The Wicked King by Holly Black, we are thrust back into the treacherous world of Faerie, where Jude, a mortal girl, has managed to secure power for herself by manipulating Cardan, the titular wicked king. The story picks up with Jude, now the power behind the throne, struggling to maintain control over the mercurial Cardan and the volatile politics of the faerie court.
Jude's position is precarious, as she is constantly challenged by those who see her as an outsider. Her twin sister, Taryn, who betrayed her in the previous book, is now married to Locke, a conniving faerie who is determined to undermine Jude's authority. Jude's only ally seems to be Cardan, who is bound to her by a geas, a magical command that forces him to obey her.
The Game of Power and Deception
As Jude navigates the dangerous waters of the faerie court, she must play a complex game of power and deception. She is constantly plotting and scheming, trying to outmaneuver her enemies and maintain her tenuous hold on the throne. At the same time, she is also dealing with her complicated feelings for Cardan, who alternates between being cruel and surprisingly kind.
Meanwhile, Cardan is struggling with his own internal battles. He resents being controlled by Jude, yet he is also drawn to her in a way he can't quite understand. As the story progresses, we see glimpses of the vulnerability beneath Cardan's cruel exterior, adding depth to his character.
The Unraveling of Plans
However, Jude's carefully laid plans begin to unravel when she discovers a plot to overthrow Cardan and plunge Faerie into chaos. She must race against time to uncover the conspirators and protect the kingdom, all while dealing with personal betrayals and the growing threat of war with the mortal world.
As the tension mounts, Jude and Cardan are forced to confront their feelings for each other and the true extent of their power. Their relationship, which started as a means to an end, becomes increasingly complex and fraught with conflicting emotions.
The Climactic Showdown
The story hurtles towards a climactic showdown, where Jude must make difficult choices that will determine the fate of Faerie and everyone she cares about. In a world where nothing is as it seems, and alliances can shift in an instant, Jude must rely on her wits and her strength to survive.
In the end, The Wicked King leaves us with a tantalizing cliffhanger, setting the stage for the final installment of the series. The book is a thrilling mix of political intrigue, forbidden romance, and high-stakes drama, showcasing Holly Black's talent for crafting dark, immersive fantasy worlds.
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What is The Wicked King about?
The Wicked King by Holly Black is a captivating fantasy novel filled with political intrigue, betrayal, and dark romance. It follows the story of Jude, a mortal girl who is determined to hold onto power in the treacherous world of the fae. As she navigates deadly plots and manipulates those around her, Jude must confront her own desires and the consequences of her actions. This thrilling sequel to The Cruel Prince will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
The Wicked King Review
The Wicked King (2019) is a thrilling fantasy novel that continues the tale of a mortal girl ruling the faerie realm. Here's why this book stands out:
- Boasting courtly intrigue and betrayal, the plot keeps readers on the edge of their seats, full of unexpected twists and turns.
- With its complex characters and morally gray decisions, the story challenges traditional notions of good versus evil, adding depth and nuance.
- The suspenseful atmosphere and intricate world-building make sure boredom is never an option, keeping readers captivated until the very end.
Who should read The Wicked King?
- Readers who enjoy dark and twisted fantasy stories
- Those interested in morally complex characters and political intrigue
- People who appreciate lush and vivid world-building
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The Wicked King FAQs
What is the main message of The Wicked King?
In The Wicked King, power, politics, and betrayal intertwine in the treacherous world of Faerie.
How long does it take to read The Wicked King?
It takes a few hours to read The Wicked King in full. The Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is The Wicked King a good book? Is it worth reading?
Worth it! Dive into The Wicked King for a thrilling story of power struggles and dark intrigue.
Who is the author of The Wicked King?
Holly Black is the author of The Wicked King.
What to read after The Wicked King?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Wicked King, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Just After Sunset by Stephen King
- Whereabouts by Jhumpa Lahiri
- Hearts in Darkness by Laura Kaye
- Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nunzio DeFilippis
- Side Jobs by Jim Butcher