The Thorned Prince: A Novel

by Ella Jezdikova

256 pages, Paperback

Expected publication December 1, 2026

Reviews

[Kasha · Rating 3 out of 5]

THE THORNED PRINCE - ELLA JEZDIKOVA

There were so many things that I enjoyed about The Thorned Prince, the first in a series (my guess based on the ending) from 15-year-old debut author, Ella Jezdikova.

This is a young adult dark fantasy featuring an FMC who yearns to break free from her sheltered upbringing in order to unravel long-held family secrets and to find her own voice and purpose. I always enjoy this kind of character arc, and the central romance is complex to the point that you genuinely don't know where they stand by the end of the novel.

I also loved the Twilight Markets setting, a magical yet neutral space for Cassie to explore her magical powers and to make up her own mind about the conflict of what she's been told versus what she's seen with her own eyes. I did think this story needed more development, hence my personal rating, but I look forward to reading what happens next!

Thank you to Collective Ink for sending me a copy of The Thorned Prince in exchange for an honest review.

Release date: 24 Nov 2026
Personal rating: 3/5
TWs: v*olence, d*ath, w*r, t*xic r*lationships

[Tawny Miller · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable read. There wasn’t anything particularly inventive about the storyline or plot, as it felt very similar to many books I’ve read before. I felt like the world-building could have been a bit more immersive, as I was just missing that depth. I also feel like I didn’t get enough time with the MCs to truly understand their character arcs and internal motivations until the very end of the book.

I did love the vibes between Andra and Sorin, though, and the ending was the ultimate backhanded cliffhanger! I’ll be reading the next book simply because I need to know what happens next between them.

This book would definitely appeal to YA readers.

Thank you NetGalley and Collective Ink Books for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

[Aideen Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

An outstanding work of literature. This novel is wrote beautifully with breath-taking descriptions. The Thorned Prince is a perfect fantasy romance with plenty of action, political intrigue and of course, an incredibly unique romance. It shows power roles perfectly and is filled with jaw- dropping twists. The use of language is exceptional and sets the scene wonderfully! Overall, an amazing novel!

[Sophie Denby · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read many great books and The Thorned Prince is definitely one of them. This outstanding piece of literature is gripping in a way I couldn't easily put down my kindle without a second glance on the screen.

I found the book even inspirational because of the authors age. I'd even say that one of the motives of it were ' unstoppable ' and ' everything is possible. '

I highly recommend to all romantasy lovers who love enemies to lovers trope.

[~Tery~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written characters and story.