Living between two different worlds and not being able to fit into either, The Cruel Prince follows Jude Duarte, a human girl living among the deadliest faeries in the world.
This is a YA genre that has plenty of ‘Twilight-style’ romance throughout. That said, there is more to this book than the supernatural being falling in love with the human.
In fact, there is tons of political intrigue that will keep you on your toes throughout the novel.
Combined with rivalry, disguise, and not knowing who to trust – you’re sure to be in for a ride.
However, if you have already read The Cruel Prince, you may be wondering what to read next that is equally packed with suspense. Well, you’ve come to the right place to find out.
With this in mind, this guide outlines 8 of the most magical books that will satisfy all your The Cruel Prince feelings – get ready to devour some amazing books!
If you enjoyed The Cruel Prince, you won’t be able to put down books, such as The Shadows Between Us, House of Earth and Blood, Roar, and Red Rising. These 7 books are sure to make an impact.
Themes In The Cruel Prince
Power
Throughout The Cruel Prince, power is explored in a variety of different ways. Essentially, here, power is seen as corruption – leading to exploitation and greed.
Jude views the privileged faeries as having the desire to evoke power over others – showing a link between power and immortality. Hence, why the twins are treated badly.
In the Faerie society, the powerless – including mortals and the servant class – are exploited. This is due to a power imbalance whereby some possess magic and others don’t.
The powerless try to protect themselves using charms and potions, however, this doesn’t mean they’re completely immune.
Familial Love
Family is a huge theme throughout this novel. It demonstrates that those closest to us have the power to betray us the most.
The family dynamic here is far from typical. However, despite killing their parents, Jude’s stepfather raises and protects Jude and her sister as if they are one of his own.
That said, these family bonds are tested as the story progresses – playing a key point in this novel.
Romance
There is certainly romance in this novel, however, it doesn’t take away from the main plot. Instead, it is more of a slow burner.
To see the entire evolution of the relationship, you would have to read the entire trilogy.
Rivalry
With as much romance as there is also equal, if not more, rivalry, too. The main rivals we see here are Jude and Cardan – constantly fighting and arguing with each other.
However, this extends to other characters, too. Especially Cardan’s friends who project their power over Jude because they can and are not stopped, either.
The story begins with the murder of Bryce Quinlan’s friends by a demon. However, despite being locked up, the crimes begin to start up – placing Bryce at the heart of the investigation.
As a result, a fallen angel is assigned to Bryce to help her find the real murderer before it’s too late.
Although, instead, a dangerous game of cat and mouse is formed with a romance simmering on the sidelines, too.
In this world, angels and demons walk hand in hand with thieves and gangsters, too.
This is targeted towards a more mature audience, containing a complex plot and characters.
Pros
Outstanding world.
Stunning characters.
Well-written.
Cons
Very slow pacing – the book doesn’t pick up until the second half.
Themes similar to The Cruel Prince: Friendship, power, rivalry, and family.
Now back to the YA genre, I introduce you to The Shadows Between Us.
This follows the story of Alessandra, a somewhat disagreeable character who has one goal: to marry the Shadow King, murder him, and rule over his kingdom.
However, she isn’t the only character that wants him dead – leading to one of the many problems she will face on her quest.
Sometimes, books will follow the trope of having a damsel in distress that needs saving by the powerful supernatural. However, you won’t find any of this here.
Instead, Alessandra is cunning, ambitious, witty, and intelligent – she doesn’t need someone to fight for her, let alone save her from her problems.
Pros
Strays away from cliches.
The villainous main character.
Exciting and unique.
Cons
Some readers found the book to be predictable and shallow.
Themes similar to The Cruel Prince: Power, vengeance, rivalry, and romance.
Despite The Cruel Prince containing impressive world-building, it lacks a desert setting, so Rebel of the Sands is great if you’re looking for something similar in a different world.
Here, the story follows 16-year-old Amani Al’Hize, a gutsy-headed and quip-quoting sharpshooter who runs away from home in hopes to escape an arranged marriage between herself and her uncle.
Somehow, Amani finds herself being enrolled in a rebellion against the ruling, warmongering sultan.
This story evokes feelings of middle-eastern legends and fairy tales all within a dusty magic atmosphere – trust me, you won’t be able to put it down.
A unique experience, this novel mixes myth with fact to create Revel of the Sands – a delightfully fresh take on the fantasy genre that is sure to attract a range of audiences.
Pros
Packed with excitement.
Tons of action.
Twists and turns.
Cons
Some readers found the novel to be a little rushed.
Themes similar to The Cruel Prince: Action, a strong female lead, independence, and power.
In From Blood and Ash, we follow the story of Poppy, a girl destined from birth to be an usher in a new era.
Since she was born, Poppy’s life has never been in her control. She would much rather help guards to fight back evil instead of waiting for the day she ascends into a goldlike existence.
This is where Hawke comes in – a dark and smoldering guard whose one duty is to ensure Poppy ascends into her destined role.
If you’re looking to escape the real world then this is the book for you. It provides you with everything you need to go on a thrilling journey of your own.
Pros
Engrossing plot.
Plenty of romance.
Enjoyable read.
Cons
Some readers found the love interest to be problematic.
Themes similar to The Cruel Prince: Forbidden love, rivalry, violence, and power.
Books similar to The Cruel Prince often have themes such as arranged marriages, political upheaval, romance, and treachery. Roar is one of those books that tick all the boxes.
Here, we follow the story of Aurora Pavan, the sole heir of Pavan, who is prepared to be the perfect queen.
However, there is one problem, she hasn’t shown signs of possessing the power required to protect her lands.
Her mother’s solution? To marry her daughter to a dark and brooding prince who will be able to use his magic to protect their lands and keep the people of Pavan safe.
While you may be thinking that this sounds like every other YA fantasy book or romance book out there. Well, hold your horses, there is one thing preventing this arranged marriage.
Here, Aurora wanders into the black market and finds the magic she needs to keep her lands safe without having to marry the prince.
Pros
Highly entertaining.
Packed with adventure.
Plenty of romance.
Cons
Some readers found the ending to be rushed.
Themes similar to The Cruel Prince: Strong heroine, romance, magic, and power.
Red Rising combines various genres, including fantasy, science fiction, and a dash of history to provide you with a well-written novel about a boy’s rise to power.
This is an easy book to read whose prose comes to life the more you read with the perfect mix of romance and action.
If you’re looking to escape the real world for a little while, then you need to pick up Red Rising.
It tackles power mongers, warlords, and corrupt politicians in ways you wish you could. However, in the meantime, you can receive all the satisfaction from reading about it.
Pros
Rich details.
Interesting plot.
Unapologetically clever.
Cons
Some readers found the characters to be cardboard cutouts and lacking personality.
Themes similar to The Cruel Prince: Power, romance, family, and oppression.
Final Thoughts
Action, lies, and bravery are just a few words that summarize the immense that is The Cruel Prince.
Each chapter leaves up wanting more until you’ve finished the book. However, what are you supposed to do after that? Well, that’s where I come in.
With the help of these recommendations, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your taste for an action-packed adventure like The Cruel Prince.
From Roat and Rebel of The Sands to The Shadows Between Us and House of Earth and Blood – each is equally captivating.
Hopefully, this guide has provided you with some inspiration for your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Does The Cruel Prince Take Place?
The Cruel Prince starts off in the human world, however, the majority of the book is set in Elfhame, the home of the faeries.
Hi, my name is Anna Davis and I have been working with books for five years now. I got a job at my local library, so I could be closer to all of the books! I created this website in the hopes of inspiring others to start reading again. Who knows, maybe you’ll find your new favorite book from my site!
