A Darker Shade of Magic (Shades of Magic, #1)

by V.E. Schwab

[mary]

http://fiercefolly.com/book-review-a-darker-shade-of-magic/

I liked this book, but didn't love it. Maybe because it was over-hyped or it just didn't meet my expectations when it comes to fantasy. It fell a little short for me, especially when it comes to backstory and character development. I always seem to have qualms about character development in YA novels and this book was no exception.

Basically the story is about Kell, a traveler, who has the magical ability to travel between alternate Londons. He and one other person, Holland, possess this rare Antari blood magic. They are the last remaining of their kind. I loved the descriptions of the three alternate Londons and one which has fallen known as Black London. There is White London which is ruled by the ruthless and cruel Dane twins (overall very creepy villains) where the people are power hungry and the common people are oppressed by the elite. Then there is Red London, home to Kell, and it is the one thriving with life and magic. Everyone there seems content and happy with the balance between humanity and magic. Finally, there is Grey London, which I would say is similar to London now, where magic is not known of anymore. These three Londons were separated from one another when Black London fell to an evil and powerful type of magic. The plaque consumed that London and the alternate ones were left to block themselves from that evil source of magic.

I loved the idea of the magical and different Londons, I do wish they was more world building in the novel, but maybe that will come later in the series. At least I hope it does. I especially wanted to feel more of a connection with the Red London and the history of how Kell came to be part of the royal family. Barely any information was given on Kell which is disappointing because he is the main male protagonist and the one that leads an interesting life. Of course I was left wanting more.

I did find Grey London fitting to house the strong female protagonist, Lila Bard. She is a stellar thief and I found it quite hilarious that she got away with dressing up as a boy. I liked her character: strong and witty. Again I wish there was more back story and development. I couldn't really grasp the relationship between Kell and Lila throughout the book because dialogue was greatly lacking. Maybe the book should have been much longer, adding more dialogue and back story to allow the reader to grow more attached to the characters presenting. I'm hoping all these issues will be taken care of as the series continues though.

For me this was a rather quick read. I probably could have finished it in a day. The plot did grab my attention and I was never bored the entire time reading the book. Which is a great feeling when you pick up a book to get lost in another world. I loved the fantasy elements, the magic, creepy villains, and alternate worlds. It was a really great dystopian concept and I am looking forward to the next in the series. I may even pick this up again before the next one comes out, just to see if maybe I missed something.