The Fragile Threads of Power by V. E. Schwab is lauded for its intricate world-building and compelling characters, offering a fresh yet familiar return to the universe of the Shades of Magic series. However, some critics note pacing issues and a complex plot that may be challenging for new readers. Overall, it's a captivating read for fans of Schwab's prior works.

An ideal reader for V. E. Schwab’s The Fragile Threads of Power enjoys richly woven fantasy worlds with complex characters and intricate plots, similar to those in Leigh Bardugo’s Six of Crows or Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass series. They appreciate narratives that blend dark magic, political intrigue, and relatable, multi-dimensional protagonists.

The Fragile Threads of Power, the first book in a new trilogy by V. E. Schwab, continues the story from the Shades of Magic series, focusing on interconnected worlds—Red, White, Grey, and Black London. Seven years after the original series, the novel follows familiar characters Kell, Lila, and Rhy, along with new faces who navigate political unrest and dwindling magic. The novel discusses violence, torture, and anti-gay bias.

Mysterious / Dark / Fantastical / Suspenseful / Emotional

**Kosika**  
A 14-year-old child queen of White London and a powerful Antari magician who struggles to understand her role and establish magic in her kingdom.

**Tesali “Tes” Ranek**  
A 15-year-old magic worker from Red London with the rare ability to manipulate magical threads, who seeks respect and a place where her talents are nurtured.

**Kell Maresh**  
An Antari magician and protagonist struggling with the loss of his magical abilities, who is supported by his partner Lila Bard and his relationship with his brother, Rhy.

**Delilah “Lila” Bard**  
A fierce and independent Antari magician and captain of the Grey Barron, who is Kell's partner and values her freedom and found family.

**Rhy Maresh**  
The king of Arnes, a fair and generous ruler who balances his royal duties with personal relationships with his adopted brother Kell and his consort Alucard.

**Alucard Emery**  
The king’s consort and a protagonist with a history as a privateer, who now protects his family while dealing with his past abusive upbringing.

**Nadiya Loreni**  
The queen of Arnes, Rhy’s wife, and a brilliant inventor whose analytical mind and focus on family can clash with others, like Lila.

**Berras Emery**  
The main antagonist and Alucard’s brother, who becomes a tyrant due to their abusive upbringing and harbors jealousy and resentment towards Alucard.

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