A parent might reach for this book when their teen feels like an underdog, struggling to find their power in a world that seems designed for them to fail. This is the final book in the Folk of the Air trilogy, a high-stakes fantasy about Jude, a mortal girl raised in the treacherous world of Faerie. Exiled by the wicked king she secretly controls, Jude must find a way back to save her family and the world she has grown to love, even if it means confronting betrayal and her own capacity for ruthlessness. It explores themes of resilience, identity, and navigating complex, sometimes toxic, relationships. Best for mature teens (15+), this book offers a powerful model of a heroine who claims her own strength not through magic, but through intelligence and fierce determination.
Focus on a complicated relationship; includes kissing and mature romantic tension.
Moral AmbiguityModerate
The protagonist makes ruthless and questionable choices to achieve her goals.
Character DeathModerate
Several secondary characters are killed as part of the political conflict.
Rating EscalationMild
The final book in a trilogy that grows in stakes and thematic intensity.
Sensitive Topics
The book features significant fantasy violence: sword fights, battles, assassinations, and poison. The approach is direct and a consequence of the political conflict. Character deaths occur and are treated as part of the story's high stakes. The central romantic relationship is complex and has elements of toxicity and manipulation, though it evolves toward a more hopeful and balanced partnership. The resolution is ultimately hopeful but hard-won, acknowledging the scars of past trauma. The world is secular fantasy.
Ideal Reader
A teen, aged 15-18, who loves immersive high fantasy with intricate political plots and morally gray characters. This is perfect for a reader who feels underestimated and enjoys seeing a protagonist use cunning and strategy, rather than just magical destiny, to win. It strongly appeals to fans of the "enemies-to-lovers" romance trope who appreciate a messy, complicated dynamic.
Parent Prep
Parents should be aware of the level of violence and the mature themes in the central relationship. While it can be read cold by a seasoned YA fantasy reader, a parent might want to preview chapter 20, which contains a significant and violent plot twist. The book provides a great opportunity to discuss what makes a relationship healthy versus toxic, and whether the ends can justify the means. A parent hears their teen express frustration about feeling powerless or overlooked, saying things like, "No one ever listens to me," or "I have to fight for everything." Or they may observe their teen navigating a confusing peer or romantic relationship with shifting power dynamics.
Age Experience
A younger reader (14-15) will likely be captivated by the fast-paced plot, the high-stakes romance, and Jude's moments of triumph. An older reader (16-18) will be better equipped to analyze the complex political maneuvering, the moral ambiguity of Jude's choices, and the nuanced exploration of power, trauma, and identity.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many YA heroines who are a 'chosen one' with special powers, Jude's power is derived entirely from her mortality, ambition, and strategic mind. The series is distinguished by its truly treacherous world and a protagonist who is often as ruthless as her enemies. The romance is famously complex and feels more realistic in its messiness than many idealized YA relationships.
Read plot summary
This book concludes the Folk of the Air trilogy. Jude Duarte, the mortal High Queen of Elfhame, is living in exile in the human world, bound by a command from High King Cardan. She is lured back to Faerie by her twin sister, Taryn, who needs her help. Once back, Jude is plunged into the heart of a new political crisis: a prophecy foretells the destruction of the throne, and Cardan's erratic behavior puts everyone at risk. Jude must untangle the prophecy, confront the powerful general Madoc who seeks the crown, and navigate her incredibly complicated relationship with Cardan, all while fighting to reclaim her power and save the kingdom she loves.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Jude often feels she must be ruthless to survive in Faerie. Do you think her actions, particularly toward her enemies, are justified? Where would you draw the line?
2
When Jude learns the truth about Cardan's curse and his letters, how does it reframe his actions from the previous books? Does he deserve forgiveness?
3
Taryn betrays Jude multiple times, yet Jude ultimately chooses to help her. Why do you think Jude makes this choice? What does it say about their bond as sisters?
4
At the end, Jude chooses to share power with Cardan rather than rule alone. Why was this an important step for her character's growth and her definition of strength?
5
Madoc is both a father figure and a villain to Jude. How does their final confrontation show how much Jude has changed since the beginning of the series?
