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416
Novel • Fiction
Parallel Londons • Early 1800s
2015
YA
16-25 years
In A Darker Shade of Magic, Kell Maresh, one of the last Antari magicians capable of traveling between parallel worlds, inadvertently acquires a dangerous artifact from the fallen world of Black London. Joined by a daring thief named Lila Bard, Kell embarks on a perilous adventure to prevent the artifact from causing catastrophic destruction. The novel contains depictions of self-injury, sexual assault, torture, and homicide.
Mysterious
Adventurous
Fantastical
Dark
Suspenseful
403,718 ratings
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V. E. Schwab's A Darker Shade of Magic weaves a captivating tale of magical Londons, earning praise for its imaginative world-building and engaging characters. Critics highlight the gripping plot and rich setting, but some find the pacing uneven. Overall, it's a must-read for fantasy lovers, though it may not captivate those seeking faster action.
Readers who enjoy immersive fantasy worlds and charismatic characters will love A Darker Shade of Magic by V. E. Schwab. Fans of Neil Gaiman’s Neverwhere and Lev Grossman’s The Magicians will find a similarly engaging blend of magic, adventure, and richly crafted alternate Londons in this fast-paced novel.
403,718 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Delilah "Lila" Bard
A 19-year-old thief and adventurer with a boyish frame and different-colored brown eyes, demonstrating her resourcefulness and yearning for freedom and adventure. She navigates a life shaped by hardship and dreams of becoming a pirate.
Rhy Maresh
The handsome and charming prince of Red London and Kell’s adoptive brother, who worries about being perceived as weak and shows deep empathy and mercy. His bond with Kell highlights themes of family loyalty and protection.
Barron
The steadfast and bearded owner of the Stone’s Throw inn, serving as Lila’s protective father figure. He offers her stability and care in a life otherwise defined by betrayal and self-reliance.
Holland Vosijk
An Antari from White London with one greyish green eye and one black eye, serving as Kell’s foil and an antagonist bound to enforce the will of White London's rulers. He is a strategic and bitter character facing his own lack of freedom.
Astrid and Athos Dane
The twin rulers of White London with colorless features and dark veins, obsessed with power and control. They are sadistic and conniving, employing dark magic and intimidation to maintain their rule.
416
Novel • Fiction
Parallel Londons • Early 1800s
2015
YA
16-25 years
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