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Title: Shades of Magic series
Author: V.E. Schwab
Genre: Fantasy
Length: Trilogy
Rating: 4.5/5
London is already a magical city, but what if I told you that it becomes even more magical in the book series "Shades of Magic" by V.E. Schwab? Journey through the truly magical layers of London from the perspectives of a prince, a thief, a pirate, and an Antari.
“I'd rather die on an adventure than live standing still" V.E. Schwab, Shades of Magic
Summary
There are four Londons: Grey London, the one we know; Red London, a place full of magic powered by the red Thames; White London, a place that looks as if colour has left it; and Black London, once one of the most powerful worlds, but now nothing remains as its magic has consumed itself. Nobody can travel between these worlds except the Antari. Once there were many, now only two are left: Kell from Red London and Holland from White London. Together, they transport letters and messengers between the worlds. Only messengers are allowed to travel between the worlds, but Kell has a small side business in smuggling and collecting items from and to other worlds.
One day, Kell gets his hands on a mysterious stone. This stone paints a target on his back, forcing him to flee. Suddenly, he bumps into Lila Bard, and a few minutes later, he discovers his mysterious black stone is gone. Can Kell get the stone back before a mysterious magical power releases itself on Grey London?
“Sure I do,” countered Lila cheerfully. “There’s Dull London, Kell London, Creepy London, and Dead London,” she recited, ticking them off on her fingers. “See? I’m a fast learner.” V.E. Schwab, Shades of Magic
Thoughts & My rating
I read this series in May of this year. At that moment, I was in a big reading slump—I had no motivation, it took me a month to finish a book, and my big TBR stack was really putting me off. So I thought, "This needs to change," and I picked up a book from an author who always delivers: V.E. Schwab. I started with the first book of The Shades of Magic series: "A Darker Shade of Magic," and I was immediately bedazzled. I mean I made a whole dedication page in my book journal for this series, and I don’t do that often ;) Want to find out more about my book journal does and don’ts?
“As far as she was concerned, family had nothing to do with proximity or blood. Family was a chosen thing. A label earned.” V.E. Schwab, Shades of Magic
The story that Schwab sketches before us is full of action and power. From the very beginning, I was intrigued by the unique magic system and amazing worldbuilding. Schwab is truly a writer who doesn't bind herself to the rules of a genre. Not only did I fall in love with the dynamic, multilayered world Schwab paints, but I also fell in love with the characters, their traits, and their underlying dynamics. This book had a great mix of character development and plot which resulted in no dull moments. That’s why I really enjoyed this read—it was very much a comfort read and a great book for this fall! 4.5/5 stars! And looking for more books to read this fall? Check out my Fall Recs!
Not the end
And great news for those experiencing a Shades of Magic hangover: Schwab is bringing out another trilogy set in the world of Red London, following some of the same characters and introducing amazing new ones with unique abilities. The first book of this trilogy is already out and called "The Fragile Threads of Power." When I read this book last September, it felt like coming home—that's how much you grow to love all the characters of the Shades of Magic series. Click here add Shades of magic it to your Amazon Wishlist
“I'm not going to die," she said. "Not till I've seen it." "Seen what?" Her smile widened. "Everything.” V.E. Schwab, Shades of Magic
Want to know more about Schwab's (upcoming) works? Click here.
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