Most people only know one London; but what if there were several? Kell is one of the last Travelers - magicians with a rare ability to travel between parallel Londons. There's Grey London, dirty and crowded and without magic, home to the mad king George III. There's Red London, where life and magic are revered. Then, White London, ruled by whoever has murdered their way to the throne. But once upon a time, there was Black London...
First of all, I'm kicking myself: why didn't I read this book sooner? It's amazing, a rush of excitement from beginning to end. Every character is well written and fully developed. Also, no character is untouchable, something I really appreciate. Too often in fantasy, there are no twists, which makes for a boring book.
Doubly great is the fact that Schwab didn't feel the need to force an overtly saccharine romance, instead letting her characters, and the plot, develop naturally. Kell is fantastic, but Lila really stood out to me. She's hardcore, doesn't apologize for who she is or anything she's done, and doesn't spend time dwelling on things and feeling sorry for herself.
I'll be rushing out to find the next book, A Gathering of Shadows, as soon as possible. I have a feeling I'll be reading all of Schwab's books in rapid succession. I'm so excited to have found a new author to love!
Reading updates
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19 November, 2018:
Reviewed