"A Darker Shade of Magic" is an enthralling fantasy novel written by V.E. Schwab. This ebook transports readers into a world filled with magic, intrigue, and danger. The story is set in parallel versions of London, each representing a different level of magic. The protagonist of the story is Kell, a powerful magician known as an Antari, who has the unique ability to travel between these parallel Londons.
2. A Gathering of Shadows
Schwab Volume 1 ISBN 9781466851375 Copyright 2015 Release Date February 24, 2015 Publisher Tor Publishing Group Countries United States, Canada Learn more about available countries Language English Format ePub,mobi Learn More about our supported formats Dragonmount is a proud provider of DRM-free eBooks. Schwab Volume 1 ISBN 9781466851375 Copyright 2015 Release Date February 24, 2015 Publisher Tor Publishing Group Countries United States, Canada Learn more about available countries Language English Format ePub,mobi Learn More about our supported formats Dragonmount is a proud provider of DRM-free eBooks.
The protagonist of the story is Kell, a powerful magician known as an Antari, who has the unique ability to travel between these parallel Londons. Kell serves as an ambassador for Red London, a thriving city where magic is embraced and respected. However, he also secretly smuggles magical artifacts between the different realms, which is strictly forbidden.
A Darker Shade of Magic : A Novel by V. E. Schwab
Kell is one of the last Antari—magicians with a rare, coveted ability to travel between parallel Londons; Red, Grey, White, and, once upon a time, Black.
Kell was raised in Arnes—Red London—and officially serves the Maresh Empire as an ambassador, traveling between the frequent bloody regime changes in White London and the court of George III in the dullest of Londons, the one without any magic left to see.
Unofficially, Kell is a smuggler, servicing people willing to pay for even the smallest glimpses of a world they'll never see. It's a defiant hobby with dangerous consequences, which Kell is now seeing firsthand.
After an exchange goes awry, Kell escapes to Grey London and runs into Delilah Bard, a cut-purse with lofty aspirations. She first robs him, then saves him from a deadly enemy, and finally forces Kell to spirit her to another world for a proper adventure.
Now perilous magic is afoot, and treachery lurks at every turn. To save all of the worlds, they'll first need to stay alive.
"A Darker Shade of Magic has all the hallmarks of a classic work of fantasy. Schwab has given us a gem of a tale. This is a book to treasure."—Deborah Harkeness, New York Times bestselling author of the All Souls trilogy
Shades of Magic series
1. A Darker Shade of Magic
2. A Gathering of Shadows
3. A Conjuring of Light
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Praise for this book
Entertainment Weekly's 27 Female Authors Who Rule Sci-Fi and Fantasy Right Now
“A Darker Shade of Magic has all the hallmarks of a classic work of fantasy. Its plot is gripping. Its characters are memorable. Its setting in four parallel, powerful Londons is otherworldly yet believable. Schwab has given us a gem of a tale that is original in its premise and compelling in its execution. This is a book to treasure.” —Deborah Harkness, New York Times bestselling author of The All Souls Trilogy
“Compulsively readable. her characters make the book. Just as Kell has layers, Lila is a satisfyingly rich invention. With so many worlds on the map, there's plenty left to discover.” —NPR
“A Darker Shade of Magic feels like a priceless object, brought from another, better world of fantasy books.” —io9
“Schwab (Vicious) creates an ingenious set of nesting alternate Londons in this imaginative, well-crafted fantasy. Confident prose and marvelous touches-a chameleon coat, a scarlet river of magic, a piratical antiheroine-bring exuberant life to an exhilarating adventure among the worlds.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
“A Darker Shade of Magic is smart, funny and sexy . Schwab keeps the excitement coming with roller-coaster plot twists that establish her as, perhaps, the natural successor to Diana Wynne Jones's contemporary fantasy crown.” —The Independent
“Fantasy fans will love this fast-paced adventure, with its complex magic system, thoughtful hero and bold heroine.” —Kirkus Reviews
About the Author
V. E. Schwab's first adult novel, Vicious, debuted to critical praise and reader accolades. Schwab is the author of YA novels The Near Witch, The Archived, and The Unbound. She is also currently writing a fantasy middle grade series with Scholastic.
Title: A Darker Shade of Magic : A Novel
Author(s): V. E. Schwab
Volume: 1
ISBN: 9781466851375
Copyright 2015
Release Date: February 24, 2015
Publisher: Tor Publishing Group
Countries: United States, Canada | Learn more about available countries
Language: English
Format: ePub,mobi | Learn More about our supported formats
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During one of his smuggling missions, Kell encounters a cunning thief named Lila Bard. Together, they embark on a perilous journey that involves the black market, royal conspiracies, and a dangerous magic that threatens to destroy everything they hold dear. As they traverse the enchanting but treacherous worlds, Kell and Lila must rely on their skills, wit, and growing bond to survive. The world-building in "A Darker Shade of Magic" is rich and immersive. Schwab creates a vivid backdrop for the story, vividly describing the distinct characteristics of each London. From Red London, bursting with vibrant magic, to the bleak and desolate White London, the author's attention to detail brings these worlds to life. The characters in the book are well-developed and multi-dimensional. Kell struggles with his sense of belonging and wrestles with the consequences of his actions. Lila, on the other hand, is a strong-willed and resourceful heroine who desires adventure. Their interactions and evolving relationship add depth and complexity to the narrative. Schwab's writing style is compelling and keeps readers engaged throughout the story. The pacing is fast-paced, filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists. The author's ability to seamlessly blend magic and intrigue creates a captivating reading experience. In conclusion, "A Darker Shade of Magic" is a thrilling ebook that immerses readers in a world of magic and adventure. With its well-crafted world-building, memorable characters, and gripping plot, this novel is a must-read for fans of fantasy and those looking for a captivating escape into a different realm..
Reviews for "A Darker Shade of Magic Ebook: A Gateway to Other V.E. Schwab Novels"
1. Sarah - rating: 2/5 - I was really disappointed with "A Darker Shade of Magic". The concept of multiple parallel worlds with different levels of magic was intriguing, but the execution fell flat for me. The pacing was uneven, with long stretches of nothing happening and then sudden bursts of action. I found it hard to connect with the characters, and the protagonist, Kell, felt one-dimensional and lacked depth. The plot was also predictable, with little surprises or twists. Overall, it just didn't live up to the hype for me.
2. Jason - rating: 3/5 - I had high hopes for "A Darker Shade of Magic" based on the positive reviews, but it didn't quite live up to my expectations. While the world-building was interesting and the idea of different London's was unique, I found the plot to be slow-paced and lacking in excitement. The magic system was not well-explained, leaving me confused at times. The characters were okay, but they didn't particularly stand out to me. Overall, it was an average read, but it didn't leave a lasting impression.
3. Emily - rating: 2/5 - I struggled to get through "A Darker Shade of Magic". The writing style was disjointed and confusing, making it hard to follow the story. The action scenes were not well-described, lacking in detail and failing to create any sense of tension or excitement. The characters were also forgettable, with no real development or depth. I had high hopes for this book, but unfortunately, it just didn't deliver for me. I wouldn't recommend it to others.