Like many devoted fans of ‘The Folk of the Air’ series, the release of How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate You was met with fervent anticipation. The promise of delving deeper into Cardan’s past was irresistible, sparking weeks of eager speculation and, admittedly, more than a few fanart-fueled daydreams. Finally getting my hands on this book was a moment I had eagerly awaited, ready to immerse myself in the Elfhame King’s hidden depths.
However, upon finishing the book, a complex mix of emotions arose, settling into something slightly less than the unadulterated elation I had envisioned. There’s a nuanced feeling of being somewhat let down, not by the quality of the writing or the character of Cardan himself, but by the narrative’s focus.
Disappointed Cardan GIF expressing unmet expectations for Jurdan content in 'How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate'
The expectation, perhaps fueled by fervent hopes, was for a greater exploration of the dynamic between Jude and Cardan, even in his younger years. Scenes from The Cruel Prince yearned to be revisited from Cardan’s perspective, offering fresh insights into their intricate relationship. While acknowledging that the book centers on Cardan’s formative experiences, the yearning for those Jurdan moments lingered.
This slight disappointment was further compounded by the prominent presence of Nicasia within the narrative. While Nicasia is undeniably a significant character in the Elfhame tapestry, and her role is understood and even appreciated in the broader context of the series, her extensive involvement in this particular story felt like it overshadowed the desired exploration of Cardan’s solo journey and his connection with Jude. The balance felt skewed, leaving a void where deeper Jurdan perspectives were anticipated.
Yet, despite these points of contention, the book still garners a high rating, a testament to the undeniable allure of Cardan himself. The simple truth is, the world of Elfhame and the complexities of its characters, especially Cardan, remain utterly captivating. The intricate layers of his personality, hinted at in the main series, are further unveiled here, providing a richer understanding of the King we’ve come to both admire and fear.
Credit to Nan Fe!
Adding to the book’s charm are the included illustrations. These visual elements are not mere decorations; they are integral to the reading experience, beautifully complementing the narrative and enhancing the immersive quality of Elfhame. Furthermore, the very last story within the collection offers a poignant and memorable conclusion, leaving a lasting impression.
In essence, How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate You is a worthwhile addition to ‘The Folk of the Air’ universe. While it may not have entirely fulfilled every fan’s specific desires for Jurdan content, its exploration of Cardan’s character, coupled with stunning illustrations and compelling storytelling, makes it a captivating read. The enduring fascination with Cardan and the intricacies of Elfhame ensures that this book, despite minor shortcomings in focus, remains a treasured piece for series enthusiasts.
