This story intrigued me with the mix of characters and their hierarchy. There is a cliff hanger for an ending, which I was not prepared for. Despite expectations, Rose wants to figure out her own life and move about on her own. She has a strength and it grows as the story moves along. I am curious as to where the story goes from here and to find out who she ends up with.

I received a copy of this book as a prize, and this is my unsolicited review.

I have a fascination on the many worlds concepts both in theoretical physics and in fictional worlds. With the goal of reading recently released paperback books (I just usually buy used books released years ago), I picked up A Darker Shade of Magic. I wanted to know how the concept of parallel worlds used in a fantasy setting. Previously, I just read fantasy stories that only have two worlds, the mundane and the magical. Now I get to read four worlds in one.

A Darker Shade of Magic is the first of a trilogy written by V.E. Schwab. This is my first book from her. This book was first released in 2015.

This is the story of Kell, one of the few remaining Antari. They are magicians that can traverse in between worlds. There are four worlds with one thing in common, all have a city that is named London. These Londons are designated by color, Gray, Red, White, and Black. Kell is from Red London. Here he grew up with the royal family but not a part of it. He consider Prince Rhy his brother. Officially, Kell is the ambassador to the White and Gray London. (Traveling to the Black London is forbidden.) Unofficially, he is a smuggler for items only found in other Londons. One day he came across with a dangerous artifact that in the wrong hand can be used to destroy the walls separating the London. He cross paths with Lila the pickpocket from Gray London and together they set things the right way.

Kell is the best written character. Other characters, including the antagonists, not as much. I liked how the differences of the Londons were written. I, as the reader, can easy tell which London is which. The plot lines are tied in the end. I can end reading now or pick up the next books.

I recommend this book for those who like to mix and match their genres. I haven’t read the blurbs of the next books but I will pick them up but not anytime soon.

Next in Shades of Magic series:

• A Gathering of Shadows - Victoria Schwab 
• A Conjuring of Light - V E Schwab 

I got so involved with my new SIMS 4 game that I forgot to post about this read!  YIKES!!!

So..

I really, really enjoyed it.  It was recommended on a lot of Best Books of lists and I think deservedly so.  Even if it is sort of YA/NA.  The writing was very good, the author's voice fresh, the plot really interesting and the world building was stellar.  The characters were good too.  A little stereotypical, but that might have been down to their youth - around 20ish years old.  

It will be interesting to see where the author takes the next book.  And how the characters will grow.  I'm looking forward to it.  :)

Title: Shades of Chocolate
Author: Cecelia Dowdy
Publisher: C.D.
Series: The Bakery Romance Series Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Shades of Chocolate" by Cecelia Dowdy

My Thoughts....

What a wonderful Christian romance read that was full of 'faith, family and love' that comes for Toni and Jason beautifully told story in this second series...'The Bakery Romance Book 2.' How these two met was definitely a work of art as this author brings these two together both having the love of chocolate between them. Will Jason be their for Toni when it seems like all is going against her? What will happen when Toni and Jason start to open up to each other. These two main characters along with the secondary characters [Brian, Gia, Larry, Trina, Antoine, Shelia, Cathy, Rhea, Sterling, Mrs. Dukes to name a few] really gives the reader quite a well developed, well portrayed and believable story that will definitely keep you turning the pages. What had been left out of Toni's life that she so desperately needed? From this read the reader will find that both of these two main characters will have some baggage that will have to be cleared up before this story ends. I loved how this author brings out this suspenseful romance presentation that will keep your attention all the way to the end. I also loved how this author brings in how good 'God's grace and forgiveness' is that he has for all of us. Now, to find out what all has gone on in the 'Shades of Chocolate' you will just have to pick up this good novel to see how well the story is brought out. The next series will be about 'Sterling' and I am sure it too will be one interesting read just as we found this one. Would I recommend "Shades of Chocolate?" YES!