"The Cruel Prince" is a young adult fantasy novel by Holly Black, set in the magical realm of Elfhame. The story follows Jude Duarte, a mortal girl who, along with her sisters, is taken to live in the faerie world after witnessing the murder of their parents. Jude struggles to fit in among the faeries, who are known for their cruelty and deception. As she navigates the treacherous politics of the faerie court, Jude becomes determined to gain power and prove herself. Her complex relationship with Cardan, a cruel faerie prince, adds tension and intrigue to her quest for acceptance and revenge in a world where trust is scarce.