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.  :)