I won't be picking this book up because from the summary and certain things i've heard about it, i have reason to believe it will feature my most hated book trope of all time, the guy treats a girl horribly and then they fall madly in love with each other, i might be wrong about this but the fact that there is a chance the main character will end up with the abusive prince is enough for me not to risk picking up this book, just because the other party fights back does not mean a relationship is not abusive or toxic.
So I don’t want to give away spoilers, but since you said you don’t plan on picking the book up, I’ll say that I personally didn’t think how the relationship between the girl and the prince developed turned out to be love in any way. That being said, I agree that a romanticized abusive relationship is not something I care for in books. I don’t think that’s what this is, given that the main character never feels love for the guy. Obviously idk where the story will go in the sequel, but as of right now I didn’t find it to be “abused girl loves abusive guy”
Ok, it's just that i've seen this trope so much in books that it deeply worries me that people are reading and thinking those kinds of relationships are ok or sexy, there is an author called penelope douglas who uses this harmful trope in almost all of her stories, and i've seen it in other book series too, it might take several books but the girl usually ends up with the abusive jerk, a lot of authors don't seem to realize the difference between banter and abuse.
jhjkhgjhfgjg jgjyfhdhbfjhg its not a matter of censorship I’m not saying they should cut those kinds of relationships in media, my problem is with their glorification and romantizacion, show them but also show how harmful they are
To respond to Covenfan: of course of course of course don’t read this book or any book if it’s not something you feel you’ll enjoy or be comfortable with! You are absolutely entitled to like and dislike what you want. I know there are definitely tropes/cliches in books that immediately make me not want to read them. As for abusive/toxic relationships being romanticized, I don’t like it. My hubby and I have such a loving and happy relationship, but I’ve seen/had a very close involvement with people in toxic relationships and it’s awful. Not just for the people in the relationship, but for the people who know the person being abused or mistreated. Anyway, that’s probably a topic for another day. Perhaps I’ll make a chat video someday about it :)
I can totally understand why you wouldn’t like enemies to lovers, but personally I’ve always thought that there is always more growth in a relationship when there is a previous feeling already associated with that relationship, like hatred. And as the story grows along, throughout the series, Jude doesn’t fall “madly in love” with Cardan, in fact she hates him so much that she threatens him at every turn. Cardan’s “hatred” for Jude turns out to be an obsession that grew into love. Cardan was just well unaware of the fact that he loved her due to his lack of receiving love from his family throughout his life. Jude and Cardan both realize several times throughout the series that they are both not-so-good people, and that besides being lovers, they also enjoy each others company. In the end of the last book, they finally realize and are willing to accept each other, with all their flaws and mistakes. And Cardan doesn’t just treat Jude terribly, she treats him like crap too, which is why, by the end of the series, their relationship had progressed into mutual affection and care. And because they already know what life would be like without the other, they appreciate the other much more as well.
I wasn't a huge fan of this book. I would agree that it did pick up near the end. The lack of world building did get on my nerves at times because everything felt so close as if the land was really small. I love the way you explain your thoughts though because quite often I feel the same way towards a book yet you are able to verbalise it a lot better than me. I sit here thinking yes that's how I felt or that's what I thought. I'm so glad I found your channel last year ☺️.
Oh, well thanks! I ultimately enjoyed the book but, as someone who really loves world building, it would’ve been fun to see more of that. But I’m glad you found my channel too cuz I love getting to chat with you about books :D
I know a lot of people say they don't like the first half but I liked the whole thing - pulled me out of a reading slump! can't wait for Wicked King :)
I really loved this book and gave it 5 stars. I think the thing I love most is that there is no clear good or bad, all characters are morally grey and that's just so interesting. I can't wait for the second book, I have a feeling it's going to be just as good!!
Yes, the morally grey aspect of the book is something I loved too!!! Someone else mentioned that as well; it’s definitely a cool element 💗 I hope the sequel is awesome!!!
I have read a handful of Holly Black's fairie tales and all of them seem to start a little slow, but almost always have me hooked a little ways in. I haven't read one I was really disappointed in, this one is on my list to read this week before school starts up again.
I’ve seen this book for months but this is the first review I’ve watched. You described everything so clearly with no spoilers too. Thanks, I’ll check it out from the library.
Such a good point re: problematic. I guess it's because I've read all her books, and in particular, her faerie world is vicious (even in the Spiderwick Chronicles). Also, the entire changeling myth is incorporated throughout her faerie stories, so I wasn't surprised by that. I really loved the bookworms that we buddy read with! Would love to have a buddy read next year for the sequel.
I would love to buddy read the sequel too!!! 💕 And yes, I can see where someone might feel this is problematic, but like you said, the whole world is very vicious. Hopefully no one will want to replicate any of the relationships!!!
This book was quite basic and tended to gloss over significant plot details whilst going into depth about unimportant aspects that added *nothing* to the storyline (*Side Note* - filler is fine but not at the expense of the premise). The characters motivations and goals were quite weak, making them difficult to relate to and even seem far fetched in some circumstances (e.g Locke and Taryn’s little “love test”- Just one of the many “da fuq” moments). The writing style is quite juvenile, but I guess that is to be expected from a YA novel. That being said this was the first fantasy novel I have ever read and it was passable as a decent read. The plot, although questionable at times, did leave me wanting to know what happens next. For curiosities sake I will be continuing the trilogy. I’d probably give this book a 3/5 and a “meh” on the grunt scale. Not bad but not ground breaking either.
I absolutely agree with what you said. Specially about the pacing. I started this book expecting sth grand like SJM books since it was so super hyped. But it took me a long time to be captivated by the plot. I don't like massive world building but i wish this book had more. It looked like such a small world. And i didn't understand the love interest at ALL! I mean in every case you get to see some small clues regarding the attraction. Here, it happened suddenly with no preparation. I really wish i could have loved it more. *sighs
I finished it a few days ago and I liked it and really want to see what will happen next. Even when I asked myself sometimes why Jude didn't leave Fearie even when it is the only thing she really knows...
Elliot this book & the story of Jude sounds like a character i could relate to cuz how she's being treated unfairly for being different. Thank you for explaining a little of what 1st person is in terms of story telling cuz i get it mixed up with 3rd person lol 😄. I think i love 1st person more. Will i be reading this book? Sure! once i catch up on all the other books you told me about. You presented this very well. Here's an A➕💯
Haha, thanks for the grade! 😄 I’m sorry to hear that being treated unfairly is something you can relate too-that should never happen! But hopefully you’ll feel connected to Jude and the book and find some enjoyment in the story. Anyone that ever treats you poorly is terrible!
Elliot Brooks wow that's very kind of you to say! 😊. This is why your channel is so cool. Everyone feels loved & welcomed. I do hope to check this book as soon as possible. Be safe til next time🌠
I just finished Nice dragons finish last by Rachel Aaron and I loved it! I'm getting ready to start Grey Sister by Mark Lawrence. Also, my copy of Cruel Prince came in the mail today, so maybe I'll read that next. Happy reading ☺
I'm pretty much with you on this one. The thing that really draws me to this book is that there's no clear Good Side and Bad Side, that this is a world with its own rules and which in classic fairy style is rife with intrigue, misdirection, political maneuvers etc and intentions and actions might not always "match up"... it was very interesting seeing how each of the three sisters had their own way to adjust, for example, and the difference between the oldest one who remembered more about the human world vs the twins. I'm looking forward to book 2! (@wait_huh)
Yes, I think you described it better than me! I do really love when there’s a moral gray area. And like you said, it was interesting to see how each of the sisters adjusted to the world differently. I hope book two is good :)
That was a thorough review. I liked it. Personally I gave it 5 stars. My husband even enjoyed it. I can't wait for the next one. I don't think this is for die hard fantasy fans which I am not. I get tired of world building. Lol. I loved Cardan. I loved the imagery. I googled fan art for this book and had so many beautiful visions of their hands, dresses, buildings etc. I tend to just take a book as is and let the writer's imagination take me on a journey. Best way I think to enjoy a book.
How you described it is kinda how I go into books. I try to be thorough when doing reviews so other people have an idea whether it sounds like something they’d be interested in, but I generally enjoy a lot of books. Well, I feel like I do. At least compared to some people who rate everything around three stars 😆
I loved it altho I can't speak for you. I think sometimes people lose sight of the fact that this is a young adult story. I didn't agree with her decisions BUT I don't expect teenagers to be rational all the time. didn't we all make decisions we look back on with regret? When everyone critized Twilight I reminded them it was a story for teens. As a teen I might have liked it. It wasn't meant to be viewed critically or seriously. I honestly didn't expect the extra world building etc from this YA fantasy in Cruel Prince. I think it might be a good introduction for some people into the fantasy world. Some fantasy is way too much to ue as a starting point. Also, I think as a teen the most important parts of our world is our siblings, families, future career choices. I guess I look at is as a fantasy novel for teen readers. Not a fantasy for adult readers that happens to have a main character who is a teenager.
I think that is a fair way to rate it. Often I think how we feel about a story is just our opinion not really a reflection of a book. I know someone who gave a historical fiction novel one star based on the fact that "it was bogged down with unnecessary historical facts" and "it needed to be a shorter book". Lol. Who can make that statement? It wasn't to me or the writer. Also I think lower reviews are given because the wrong person reads it. Many times I think, "Of course u didn't like it! Why did u think u would?" Just because people have said it is good doesn't mean everyone will like it. That always bugs me.
I love your channel and your reviews and sense of humor and how smart you are. However, this review had spoilers ! So, I have read the book so that was not a problem. If I hadn't read it I would have had to stop the video. Anyway, I enjoyed the book a lot, and I am not that much into Fantasy books. Yes, the moral dilemma on the murders is very interesting and not really clearly exposed in the book. It reminded me of the Turkish empire, when the Sultans ordered their armies to bring young women from the towns where their families were killed. And these women became lovers of the same sultan and many really loved him, (though in this book it was a different love, a fraternal one, the moral dilemma is there). Regards from Mexico City.
Hey! I'm new to your videos, so I don't know if you have, but: have you read The Queen's Rising? I think if you could actually tolerate this story (which I love!) I think you would love TQR. Please check it out! ☺ Also: Are you as excited as I am for The Wicked King? I hate that I love Cardan so much ahhhh
I haven’t read Queen’s Rising!!! And I’m pretty excited for the sequel. I liked the last half of the book a lot more than the first, so I’m hoping the second one has a lot more of the intrigue and backstabbing :D
Elliot Brooks Oh yes!! It was the same with me really, the second half of the book basically forced me to re-read it like 6 times. And I hope someone betrays Taryn, because she honestly deserves it. (You should totally read TQR! I couldn't put it down and fell in love by page two.)
To me, this book was just okay, but I can definitely see why so many other people love it. I am definitely excited form the second in the series.
Yes, me too!!! I think the second one might be able to go more into the politics of the world given how it ends. Fingers crossed :D
I won't be picking this book up because from the summary and certain things i've heard about it, i have reason to believe it will feature my most hated book trope of all time, the guy treats a girl horribly and then they fall madly in love with each other, i might be wrong about this but the fact that there is a chance the main character will end up with the abusive prince is enough for me not to risk picking up this book, just because the other party fights back does not mean a relationship is not abusive or toxic.
So I don’t want to give away spoilers, but since you said you don’t plan on picking the book up, I’ll say that I personally didn’t think how the relationship between the girl and the prince developed turned out to be love in any way.
That being said, I agree that a romanticized abusive relationship is not something I care for in books. I don’t think that’s what this is, given that the main character never feels love for the guy. Obviously idk where the story will go in the sequel, but as of right now I didn’t find it to be “abused girl loves abusive guy”
Ok, it's just that i've seen this trope so much in books that it deeply worries me that people are reading and thinking those kinds of relationships are ok or sexy, there is an author called penelope douglas who uses this harmful trope in almost all of her stories, and i've seen it in other book series too, it might take several books but the girl usually ends up with the abusive jerk, a lot of authors don't seem to realize the difference between banter and abuse.
jhjkhgjhfgjg jgjyfhdhbfjhg its not a matter of censorship I’m not saying they should cut those kinds of relationships in media, my problem is with their glorification and romantizacion, show them but also show how harmful they are
To respond to Covenfan: of course of course of course don’t read this book or any book if it’s not something you feel you’ll enjoy or be comfortable with! You are absolutely entitled to like and dislike what you want. I know there are definitely tropes/cliches in books that immediately make me not want to read them.
As for abusive/toxic relationships being romanticized, I don’t like it. My hubby and I have such a loving and happy relationship, but I’ve seen/had a very close involvement with people in toxic relationships and it’s awful. Not just for the people in the relationship, but for the people who know the person being abused or mistreated.
Anyway, that’s probably a topic for another day. Perhaps I’ll make a chat video someday about it :)
I can totally understand why you wouldn’t like enemies to lovers, but personally I’ve always thought that there is always more growth in a relationship when there is a previous feeling already associated with that relationship, like hatred. And as the story grows along, throughout the series, Jude doesn’t fall “madly in love” with Cardan, in fact she hates him so much that she threatens him at every turn. Cardan’s “hatred” for Jude turns out to be an obsession that grew into love. Cardan was just well unaware of the fact that he loved her due to his lack of receiving love from his family throughout his life. Jude and Cardan both realize several times throughout the series that they are both not-so-good people, and that besides being lovers, they also enjoy each others company. In the end of the last book, they finally realize and are willing to accept each other, with all their flaws and mistakes. And Cardan doesn’t just treat Jude terribly, she treats him like crap too, which is why, by the end of the series, their relationship had progressed into mutual affection and care. And because they already know what life would be like without the other, they appreciate the other much more as well.
I wasn't a huge fan of this book. I would agree that it did pick up near the end. The lack of world building did get on my nerves at times because everything felt so close as if the land was really small. I love the way you explain your thoughts though because quite often I feel the same way towards a book yet you are able to verbalise it a lot better than me. I sit here thinking yes that's how I felt or that's what I thought. I'm so glad I found your channel last year ☺️.
Oh, well thanks! I ultimately enjoyed the book but, as someone who really loves world building, it would’ve been fun to see more of that. But I’m glad you found my channel too cuz I love getting to chat with you about books :D
map.
@@katgreer6113 Well yes, I can look at the map but you also need to be able to feel the size of the world as you're reading.
I know a lot of people say they don't like the first half but I liked the whole thing - pulled me out of a reading slump! can't wait for Wicked King :)
We should buddy read it :D
Elliot Brooks mos def!
I really loved this book and gave it 5 stars. I think the thing I love most is that there is no clear good or bad, all characters are morally grey and that's just so interesting. I can't wait for the second book, I have a feeling it's going to be just as good!!
Yes, the morally grey aspect of the book is something I loved too!!! Someone else mentioned that as well; it’s definitely a cool element 💗
I hope the sequel is awesome!!!
I cannot express how difficult it is for me to get through the first chapters 😭😭I do not care for this high school beef😭
I have read a handful of Holly Black's fairie tales and all of them seem to start a little slow, but almost always have me hooked a little ways in. I haven't read one I was really disappointed in, this one is on my list to read this week before school starts up again.
I’ve seen this book for months but this is the first review I’ve watched. You described everything so clearly with no spoilers too. Thanks, I’ll check it out from the library.
You’re welcome! You’ll have to let me know what you end up thinking of it. It was difficult not to give anything away 😆
Such a good point re: problematic. I guess it's because I've read all her books, and in particular, her faerie world is vicious (even in the Spiderwick Chronicles). Also, the entire changeling myth is incorporated throughout her faerie stories, so I wasn't surprised by that. I really loved the bookworms that we buddy read with! Would love to have a buddy read next year for the sequel.
I would love to buddy read the sequel too!!! 💕
And yes, I can see where someone might feel this is problematic, but like you said, the whole world is very vicious. Hopefully no one will want to replicate any of the relationships!!!
This book was quite basic and tended to gloss over significant plot details whilst going into depth about unimportant aspects that added *nothing* to the storyline (*Side Note* - filler is fine but not at the expense of the premise). The characters motivations and goals were quite weak, making them difficult to relate to and even seem far fetched in some circumstances (e.g Locke and Taryn’s little “love test”- Just one of the many “da fuq” moments). The writing style is quite juvenile, but I guess that is to be expected from a YA novel. That being said this was the first fantasy novel I have ever read and it was passable as a decent read. The plot, although questionable at times, did leave me wanting to know what happens next. For curiosities sake I will be continuing the trilogy. I’d probably give this book a 3/5 and a “meh” on the grunt scale. Not bad but not ground breaking either.
I absolutely agree with what you said. Specially about the pacing.
I started this book expecting sth grand like SJM books since it was so super hyped. But it took me a long time to be captivated by the plot.
I don't like massive world building but i wish this book had more. It looked like such a small world.
And i didn't understand the love interest at ALL! I mean in every case you get to see some small clues regarding the attraction. Here, it happened suddenly with no preparation.
I really wish i could have loved it more.
*sighs
What a terrific review! There's not a single thing that you said that I'd disagree with!
Oh, yay! :D I can see how the book might not be for everyone but I ultimately enjoyed it :)
I finished it a few days ago and I liked it and really want to see what will happen next. Even when I asked myself sometimes why Jude didn't leave Fearie even when it is the only thing she really knows...
I want to see what happens next too!!! And I didn’t always connect with Jude, but it was cool getting to see her progression throughout the story :D
taht's true, I like to sees the development of her as well^^Even when I don't know excatly if it was a good development or not:D
Elliot this book & the story of Jude sounds like a character i could relate to cuz how she's being treated unfairly for being different. Thank you for explaining a little of what 1st person is in terms of story telling cuz i get it mixed up with 3rd person lol 😄. I think i love 1st person more. Will i be reading this book? Sure! once i catch up on all the other books you told me about. You presented this very well. Here's an
A➕💯
Haha, thanks for the grade! 😄 I’m sorry to hear that being treated unfairly is something you can relate too-that should never happen! But hopefully you’ll feel connected to Jude and the book and find some enjoyment in the story. Anyone that ever treats you poorly is terrible!
Elliot Brooks wow that's very kind of you to say! 😊. This is why your channel is so cool. Everyone feels loved & welcomed. I do hope to check this book as soon as possible. Be safe til next time🌠
I just finished Nice dragons finish last by Rachel Aaron and I loved it! I'm getting ready to start Grey Sister by Mark Lawrence. Also, my copy of Cruel Prince came in the mail today, so maybe I'll read that next. Happy reading ☺
Happy reading to you too! I recently got Red Sister so hopefully I can read that soon :D
You haven't read Red Sister yet? You have to! It is soooo good
I just finished it I loved it the ending was crazy
You have convinced me to give this book a try. I've heard a lot of mix reviews about it and it seems interesting now. Lol
I hope you like it! 💕 It’s a lot of scheming, but like I said, it takes awhile to get to that point :O
@@ebnovels not really it only takesvten chapters to get thire i am on chapter 11
Its great
Fabulous review, you did a really great job!!
Thanks :D
I'm pretty much with you on this one. The thing that really draws me to this book is that there's no clear Good Side and Bad Side, that this is a world with its own rules and which in classic fairy style is rife with intrigue, misdirection, political maneuvers etc and intentions and actions might not always "match up"... it was very interesting seeing how each of the three sisters had their own way to adjust, for example, and the difference between the oldest one who remembered more about the human world vs the twins. I'm looking forward to book 2! (@wait_huh)
Yes, I think you described it better than me! I do really love when there’s a moral gray area. And like you said, it was interesting to see how each of the sisters adjusted to the world differently. I hope book two is good :)
I got the audiobook and can't wait to listen to it!
Oh, awesome! I didn’t listen to the audio book for this one but hopefully it’s good :)
Elliot Brooks Caitlyn Kelly is the narrator and she does an amazing job!
I have my SAT’s tomorrow and should be sleeping but one more video won’t hurt😂
Haha, oh my gosh 🤣 And good luck!!! Let me know how they go 👩🏫👓 📚
Elliot Brooks they went good and I was surprisingly not tired. Coffee is great!
Haha, yay!!! 💗💗💗
I’ve got this book! The cruel prince!!! Just got to read it! Elliott I’ve purchased the first three book in the Witcher series!!!
I’m so excited for you to read Witcher!!!
Elliot Brooks thanks
Look forward reading you’ve been raving about the books so much!! 😄😄thanks for the recommendation!!
Your review is the only one that has made me want to pick this up so far. O__O
Oh, well thanks!!! If you do pick it up, hopefully you end up enjoying it 💕
I cant wait to read the Cruel Prince it sounds real good
I hope you like it!!!
That was a thorough review. I liked it. Personally I gave it 5 stars. My husband even enjoyed it. I can't wait for the next one. I don't think this is for die hard fantasy fans which I am not. I get tired of world building. Lol. I loved Cardan. I loved the imagery. I googled fan art for this book and had so many beautiful visions of their hands, dresses, buildings etc. I tend to just take a book as is and let the writer's imagination take me on a journey. Best way I think to enjoy a book.
How you described it is kinda how I go into books. I try to be thorough when doing reviews so other people have an idea whether it sounds like something they’d be interested in, but I generally enjoy a lot of books. Well, I feel like I do. At least compared to some people who rate everything around three stars 😆
Book Mistress I hope this book is good??
I loved it altho I can't speak for you. I think sometimes people lose sight of the fact that this is a young adult story. I didn't agree with her decisions BUT I don't expect teenagers to be rational all the time. didn't we all make decisions we look back on with regret? When everyone critized Twilight I reminded them it was a story for teens. As a teen I might have liked it. It wasn't meant to be viewed critically or seriously. I honestly didn't expect the extra world building etc from this YA fantasy in Cruel Prince. I think it might be a good introduction for some people into the fantasy world. Some fantasy is way too much to ue as a starting point. Also, I think as a teen the most important parts of our world is our siblings, families, future career choices. I guess I look at is as a fantasy novel for teen readers. Not a fantasy for adult readers that happens to have a main character who is a teenager.
I think that is a fair way to rate it. Often I think how we feel about a story is just our opinion not really a reflection of a book. I know someone who gave a historical fiction novel one star based on the fact that "it was bogged down with unnecessary historical facts" and "it needed to be a shorter book". Lol. Who can make that statement? It wasn't to me or the writer. Also I think lower reviews are given because the wrong person reads it. Many times I think, "Of course u didn't like it! Why did u think u would?" Just because people have said it is good doesn't mean everyone will like it. That always bugs me.
I love your channel and your reviews and sense of humor and how smart you are. However, this review had spoilers ! So, I have read the book so that was not a problem. If I hadn't read it I would have had to stop the video. Anyway, I enjoyed the book a lot, and I am not that much into Fantasy books. Yes, the moral dilemma on the murders is very interesting and not really clearly exposed in the book. It reminded me of the Turkish empire, when the Sultans ordered their armies to bring young women from the towns where their families were killed. And these women became lovers of the same sultan and many really loved him, (though in this book it was a different love, a fraternal one, the moral dilemma is there). Regards from Mexico City.
This is on my list after I finish my 2 books... Great video as always💕 (IG: elizabeth_d89)
Lo quiero! 👌
Hey! I'm new to your videos, so I don't know if you have, but: have you read The Queen's Rising? I think if you could actually tolerate this story (which I love!) I think you would love TQR. Please check it out! ☺
Also: Are you as excited as I am for The Wicked King? I hate that I love Cardan so much ahhhh
I haven’t read Queen’s Rising!!! And I’m pretty excited for the sequel. I liked the last half of the book a lot more than the first, so I’m hoping the second one has a lot more of the intrigue and backstabbing :D
Elliot Brooks Oh yes!! It was the same with me really, the second half of the book basically forced me to re-read it like 6 times. And I hope someone betrays Taryn, because she honestly deserves it.
(You should totally read TQR! I couldn't put it down and fell in love by page two.)