Explore Holly Black’s The Folk of the Air series: plot, characters, reading order, and hidden lore. A must-read YA fantasy for fans of fae and court intrigue.
The Cruel Prince Series In Order By Holly Black
The Folk of the Air Series in Order By Holly Black
The Folk of the Air by Holly Black is more than a bestselling YA fantasy series—it’s a global phenomenon. Since The Cruel Prince debuted in 2018, the trilogy has earned acclaim for its rich world-building, morally complex characters, and political intrigue, resonating with millions of readers across all ages.
Whether you’re a new fan, a parent, a writer, or a professional in publishing or education, this guide offers a deep dive into the series’ themes, literary impact, and practical insights—all in friendly, easy-to-follow language.
Key Highlights
| Section | Details |
| Series Title | The Folk of the Air by Holly Black |
| Books in the Series | The Cruel Prince, The Wicked King, The Queen of Nothing |
| Genre | Young Adult Fantasy |
| Audience | Ages 13+, fantasy fans, writers, educators |
| Core Themes | Power, ambition, betrayal, loyalty, identity |
| Notable Characters | Jude Duarte, Cardan Greenbriar, Madoc, Taryn, Vivi, Oak |
| Literary Value | Used in classroom discussions on character development and ethics |
| Total Copies Sold | Over 1 million worldwide (source) |
| Official Website | Holly Black |
What Is The Folk of the Air Series About?
The story follows Jude Duarte, a mortal girl stolen away to Elfhame, a magical realm ruled by ruthless faeries. Despite being an outsider, Jude is determined to rise in a world that sees her as weak. Her journey entangles her with Cardan Greenbriar, a faerie prince whose cruelty is matched only by his charm.
As war brews, secrets unravel, and alliances shift, Jude must outsmart and outfight the powerful to protect her family—and her heart.
Books in the Series
The Cruel Prince (2018) – Jude begins her journey in Elfhame and discovers the cost of ambition.
The Wicked King (2019) – With power in her hands, Jude navigates betrayal and treachery
The Queen of Nothing (2019) – The series culminates in war, redemption, and love.
Bonus:
How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories – A novella offering Cardan’s backstory with stunning illustrations.
✍️ Holly Black’s Writing Style: What Makes It Work?
Holly Black’s prose is sharp, immersive, and emotionally charged. Her writing leans on first-person present tense, drawing readers directly into Jude’s internal struggles.
Key Features:
- Sensory-rich descriptions of faerie courts and creatures
- Political tension that rivals adult fantasy
- Dialogue that reveals power dynamics
- A tone that balances grit, beauty, and psychological depth
- Black’s approach appeals to teens while also offering literary richness that adults and educators can analyze.
In-Depth Character Insights
Jude Duarte
A fierce, ambitious mortal who craves power in a world that excludes her. Jude is a symbol of grit, survival, and moral ambiguity.
Cardan Greenbriar
Initially arrogant and cruel, Cardan evolves into one of YA literature’s most compelling antiheroes. His character arc shows how trauma and love shape identity.
Supporting Characters
- Madoc: Jude’s adoptive father and faerie general. His cunning and ambition fuel the series’ political conflicts.
- Taryn: Jude’s twin—her choices reflect how people adapt differently to shared trauma.
- Vivi: Jude’s half-fae sister, a symbol of rebellion and nonconformity.
- Oak: The innocent yet powerful young heir whose future ties the kingdom’s fate.
Educational & Literary Value
The Folk of the Air has been incorporated into school reading lists and literature discussions for its:
- Complex character arcs and ethical decision-making
- Exploration of power and social systems
- Themes of resilience, loyalty, and betrayal
- Teachers and librarians can pair the series with lessons on morality in fiction, character development, and narrative structure.
Series Accessibility & Formats
Available in:
- Hardcover, paperback, and eBook
- Audiobook (narrated by Caitlin Kelly)
- Multiple languages, including Spanish, German, French, and Japanese
Resources:
Reader Reviews & Fan Reactions
- Goodreads Rating:
- The Cruel Prince – 4.1/5 (over 800,000 reviews)
- The Wicked King – 4.3/5
- The Queen of Nothing – 4.2/5
Popular Feedback:
- “Unputdownable!”
- “Jude is the feminist antihero we need.”
- “The fae world feels real—and terrifying.”
For Fans: Community, Cosplay & More
- Reddit communities: r/YAlit, r/Fantasy
- Instagram Tags: #TheCruelPrince, #JudeDuarte, #CardanGreenbriar
- TikTok Trends: Over 200M views on #thecruelprince
- Fan Art & Cosplay: Pinterest and DeviantArt are treasure troves of fan creation
Similar Series to Read Next
| Series | Author | Why You’ll Like It |
| A Court of Thorns and Roses | Sarah J. Maas | Steamy romance, powerful fae |
| Six of Crows | Leigh Bardugo | Criminal heist, diverse characters |
| Throne of Glass | Sarah J. Maas | Assassins, royalty, and rebellion |
| An Enchantment of Ravens | Margaret Rogerson | Faeries, art, and sacrifice |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the series finished?
Yes, the original trilogy is complete. However, Holly Black has returned to Elfhame with The Stolen Heir duology.
Are there movie adaptations?
Universal Pictures has acquired the rights to adapt The Cruel Prince (Deadline).
Is this a good gift for teens?
Absolutely. It’s ideal for readers 13+ and even many adults love it.
Where can I find signed copies?
Check Holly Black’s website or indie bookstores for event-related signed editions.
Conclusion
Holly Black’s The Folk of the Air series isn’t just a bestselling fantasy—it’s a masterclass in character development, dark political storytelling, and immersive world-building. Whether you’re a teen looking for your next favorite read or a writer studying how to build compelling narratives, this series delivers on every level.
With strong female leads, unforgettable love-hate tension, and a fae world full of treachery and beauty, The Folk of the Air deserves its place among YA royalty.
70-Word Summary
The Folk of the Air by Holly Black is a bestselling young adult fantasy series that explores ambition, betrayal, and power through the lens of Jude Duarte, a mortal girl living in a magical and dangerous faerie world. Celebrated for its immersive world-building and morally complex characters, the series is beloved by readers of all ages. It’s a perfect choice for fans of fantasy, educators, and aspiring writers alike.
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