In the realm of new adult fantasy, Ivy Thorn's novel Twisted Prince emerges as a gripping tale that merges elements of dark magic, conflicted romance, and political intrigue. This book, which serves as one of the pieces in Thorn’s expansive fictional universe, centers around Prince Aldric, a character enveloped in darkness and mystery, and Elara, a tenacious young woman who unexpectedly becomes intertwined with the royal family’s secret affairs.

The plot of Twisted Prince takes off when Elara, originally a low-born herbalist from the remote village of Greyhill, is summoned to the royal court under mysterious circumstances. The story soon reveals that her unique heritage and the latent magical abilities she harbors are of immense interest to Prince Aldric. Aldric himself is a character layered with complexity; his persona intricately combines the ruthlessness required to survive in a royal court with an underlying vulnerability that only Elara seems to evoke.

Ivy Thorn excels at world-building, wrapping readers in lush, vivid descriptions of luxurious palaces, bleak landscapes, and bustling marketplaces. Her attention to detail crafts a world that is at once enchantingly medieval and unsettlingly gothic. Furthermore, her use of a dual narrative perspective enhances the depth of the main characters, allowing readers an intimate glimpse into the motivations and fears driving both Elara and Aldric.

The romantic elements of Twisted Prince, while central to the plot, are wrought with tension and complexity. The relationship between Elara and Aldric is anything but straightforward, characterized by a blend of fierce attraction and mutual distrust. As events unfold, their relationship is tested by revelations of secret alliances and the surfacing of Aldric’s dark past. This tangled romance is compelling, effectively capturing the essence of a dark fairy tale.

Yet, it's the element of political intrigue that stands out remarkably in the narrative. Thorn navigates the reader through a labyrinth of power struggles, betrayals, and subterfuge. The political maneuvering is depicted with an astuteness that reflects the precarious balance of power within the royal court. Each character, from the royal family members to the court advisers, is tactfully placed, adding layers of complexity to the plot.

Despite the novel’s strengths, it does delve into some cliche territory, particularly in the portrayal of the 'dark, brooding prince' trope. Some readers might find Aldric’s character reminiscent of other darkly alluring male protagonists in the genre. However, Thorn’s skilled writing generally manages to keep these elements fresh through unexpected plot twists and well-timed revelations.

The pace of the book is another noteworthy aspect. Thorn manages to maintain a steady pace, skillfully interweaving action sequences with quieter, more introspective moments. There are times, particularly in the middle section, where the pacing might feel a bit sluggish as the narrative explores Elara’s adaptation to life at court. Nevertheless, this does contribute depth to Elara’s character development, making her subsequent decisions and evolution more believable and impactful.

The climax of Twisted Prince is particularly well executed. Climatic revelations and the consequences of the characters' choices culminate in a high-stakes finale that seems both inevitable and surprising. The ending leaves enough open-ended questions to anticipate a sequel, inviting readers to stay invested in the fates of Elara and Aldric.

In conclusion, Twisted Prince by Ivy Thorn is a formidable addition to the young adult fantasy genre, providing a delicious mix of romance, magic, and politics. While it dips into some tried-and-tested tropes, the novel's robust storytelling, complex characters, and well-crafted world more than make up for familiar territory. It’s a compelling read for anyone who enjoys stories where courtly intrigues collide with dark magic, and where love is intertwined with betrayal. Ivy Thorn continues to cement her place as a notable voice in fantasy literature with this engrossing narrative.