I feel like I completely understand the magic system, the different worlds and the politics behind everything. The characters really brought everything to life, and the worldbuilding was done subtly and slowly, but had an enormous impact. Never once did I feel like I was reading something dull or boring. The plot is phenomenal and moves along at a seriously fun pace. You are either magic’s master, or its slave. If you like a chance to ship your book characters with the villains, you’ll love Holland, he’s just perfect. He’s cruel and arrogant, but only because he has to be. Holland is beautiful character with some serious development in him. She’s a thief and a fighter, and her strength is a nice counterpoint for Kell’s ongoing panic most of the time. Then there’s Lila, she’s a headstrong young woman who seeks adventure. He’s got some angst going on, but on the whole he’s a nice rounded character with terrible luck. He’s young and reckless, but has an amazing moral compass and seriously tries to do what’s good. Let’s talk about the characters a little instead.įirst, of course, there’s Kell. I really don’t want to say any more about the story, because it’s just so good and I don’t want to ruin it for anyone. And Black London-where the magic took over and London fell. White London-a place where magic is controlled and death and blood run wild in the streets. Red London-which is where Kell is from and is a land of plenty with magic working side by side with people. Grey London-which is a place without magic, basically our London.

To differentiate them, Kell calls them by colours. These worlds all have a London, but they’re all very different. Kell is one of very few people who can travel between the different worlds. This book follows the adventure of Kell, a magician from an alternate form of London he calls Red London. I’ll definitely be reading the rest of the series.Ĭlever was more dangerous than bad any day of the week. I’m so happy to say that it was just as amazing as everyone’s been saying. Doesn’t matter where I go, I always hear people talking about this book in a positive light, and I’ve been looking forward to it so much. I’ve waited a long time to read this one. !!!Spoiler Warning!!! If you haven’t read this book yet, I give away some key spoilers! A Darker Shade of Magic

Shades of magic