A Darker Shade of Magic

A Darker Shade of Magic cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Technical
  • ID: 4635
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781783295418
  • Publisher: Titan Books
  • Published: 2015-02-20
  • Reviews: 3

A Darker Shade of Magic introduces a captivating multiverse where four parallel Londons coexist, each with its own unique magic and challenges. Kell, one of the last Travelers, possesses the rare ability to traverse these worlds, delivering messages and artifacts between them. The story unfolds against the backdrop of Grey London, a place devoid of magic, Red London, where magic is revered, and White London, a brutal and cutthroat realm. However, the most intriguing and dangerous of all is Black London, a city that was once part of this multiverse but has since been sealed away due to its dark and destructive magic. As Kell becomes entangled in a web of political intrigue, ancient magic, and deadly secrets, he must navigate the treacherous landscapes of these Londons to uncover the truth about Black London. The novel blends rich world-building, complex characters, and a gripping plot that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Reviews
Reddit - Fantasy · 2025-10-21
entertaining 4.00

The story is fun and entertaining, with a lot of magical action scenes and compelling characters. The book is surprisingly bloody and action-packed.

The reviewer finds the book to be a thrilling and entertaining read, filled with magical action scenes that keep the pages turning. The characters are compelling and well-developed, adding to the overall enjoyment. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to balance action with character development, making it a satisfying read. The book is praised for its ability to keep the reader engaged from start to finish.


Quick quotes

    It's just a fun, incredibly entertaining story with a lot of magical action scenes and compelling characters.

    A surprising amount of blood too.

    The characters are compelling and well-developed.

Goodreads · 2025-10-21
excellent 4.00

The characters are multidimensional and flawed, making them deeply engaging. The magic system and world-building are intricate and well-crafted.

This book is praised for its richly developed characters, each with their own complexities and flaws. The reviewer highlights the author's skill in creating a world that feels both immersive and believable. The magic system is particularly noteworthy, adding depth to the story. Overall, it's a compelling read that keeps the reader invested from start to finish.


Quick quotes

    Schwab is truly a master when it comes to crafting multidimensional, well rounded, and flawed characters.

    Kell deserves love and ...

    The magic system is intricate and well-crafted.

Inside My Library Mind · 2021-03-18
good 4.00

The book outlines a great world and magic system, allowing readers to project their own interpretations. The characters are compelling and well-developed.

The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to create a vivid world and a complex magic system that invites readers to imagine and explore. The characters are particularly praised for their depth and relatability. The story is engaging and well-paced, making it a enjoyable read. The reviewer finds the book to be a strong foundation for a series.


Quick quotes

    This book is a very good outline of a great world, magic system and characters.

    And the thing about good outlines is that they allow the reader to project ...

    The characters are compelling and well-developed.

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