The Wicked King, by Holly Black is the second book of The Cruel Prince trilogy. In this book. Jude has bound the Wicked King, cardan, to her, and made herself the power behind the throne. Navigating the constantly shifting political alliances of Faerie is difficult enough if cardan were biddable. But he does everything in his power to humiliate and undermine her. When it comes all too clear that someone close to Jude means to betray her, Jude must uncover the traitor, to maintain control as a mortal in Faerie world.
“I have learned that I cannot trust anyone in Faerie. I have learned that the price of power is not just a crown, but a heart that beats in the cold. I have learned that even the most well-laid plans can fall apart, and that the best way to keep control is to never show fear, even if you are terrified.”
This quote shows Jude’s realization that power in Faerie comes with mistrust, emotional sacrifices, and fear of losing the ones you love or yourself. She understands that to maintain control, she needs to hide her vulnerabilities and adapt to the ruthless world around her. This is where Jude starts growing into the person that will rule Faerie and will one day become the queen of Elfhame even as a mortal girl.