RATING: 3 out of 5
Holly Black’s newest book, “The Prisoner’s Throne”, the sequel to “The Stolen Heir”, continues the story of its two main characters, Oak and Wren, as they navigate the political tensions of the Faerie realm. Although the novel is an improvement from the first book in the series, “The Prisoner’s Throne” is still far from perfect, with pacing issues and certain character portrayals that I was not a fan of. Having not particularly enjoyed the first book in the series, “The Prisoner’s Throne” changes things by taking the story from Oak’s perspective, rather than Wren’s. It’s a welcome change, as it allows Black to explore Oak’s character more in-depth, which I felt had been lacking in the prequel.
This perspective shift is fully utilized to cast some mystique on Wren this time, allowing her true intentions to be more vague and unpredictable. However, the rather slow pacing of the first book is an issue that isn’t fixed in this book either, which results in certain stretches of the book overstaying their welcome before more interesting plot points and developments arrive.
Another main plotline of the story is the developing relationship between Oak and Wren, which is oddly heartwarming at times, considering that both characters have gone through far too much suffering, whether it be at the hands of others or each other. While there is a certain brutality and messiness to their romance, Black creates scenes where they seem to form a genuine, powerful bond. Especially considering how the book is framed around not only the politics and battles surrounding the Faerie realm but also these characters’ internal struggles, the relationship between these two characters never felt too contrived either.
But the series as a whole ultimately feels too angsty and oftentimes, far too edgy. One of the main focuses of the book is how Oak and Wren struggle to find their identity in the magical world. Oak struggles with doubt about the love that others have for him, while Wren harbors doubt about her own humanity. It serves as a driving force within the narrative as both characters are emotionally stunted in a way where they have a hard time accepting and trusting others. Their hardship is almost to the point of excessiveness at times, as certain plot points feel specifically designed to make these characters suffer more.
Ultimately, I understand the popularity of Holly Black’s writing, and by extension, the popularity of “The Stolen Heir” and “The Prisoner’s Throne”. There is a certain appeal to the series, with angsty romances, disastrously complicated political and familial relations, and clear-cut writing. But overall, I just couldn’t find myself to enjoy it.