The Shades of Magic series by V.E. Schwab is a captivating fantasy trilogy that transports readers to a universe of parallel Londons, each with its own unique magic system and distinct culture. The series follows Kell, one of the last Travelers who can move between these worlds, and Delilah Bard, a daring thief with dreams of grand adventure.
As a young Antari magician, Kell is one of the last magicians with the rare ability to travel between the four parallel Londons, which he calls Red, Grey, White, and Black.
Kell officially serves the royal family of Red London, The Maresh Empire, as an ambassador, traveling between worlds to deliver messages, letters of importance and other such news. However, Kell has a secret life as a smuggler, servicing people willing to pay for even the smallest glimpses of magic. It's a risky pastime with dangerous consequences.
After a smuggling job goes wrong, Kell escapes to Grey London where he finds Delilah Bard (who goes by Lila), a young thief looking for a taste of adventure and a chance at something more. Lila first saves Kell, then captures him and talks him into going with him. In a world with magic, it's of course unavoidable that things go horribly wrong along the way.
Books in the Series:
1. A Darker Shade of Magic
In the first book, readers are introduced to Kell, one of the last Antari, rare magicians who can travel between the parallel Londons. Kell serves the royal family of Red London, where magic is abundant and revered. He secretly smuggles items between the Londons for those willing to pay. One day, he stumbles upon a mysterious black stone, a remnant from Black London, a city consumed by dark magic and sealed off from the rest. While trying to dispose of it, he crosses paths with Delilah "Lila" Bard, a fearless thief from Grey London, where magic is thought to be a myth. Together, they must navigate the treacherous politics of White London and the dangers of the black stone, ultimately aiming to return it to Black London to prevent a catastrophic disaster.
2. A Gathering of Shadows
The second book sees the return of Kell and Lila, now separated and pursuing their own paths. Red London is hosting the Element Games, a magical competition designed to showcase the best magicians from the neighboring empires. Kell, burdened by guilt and restrictions placed on his freedom, reluctantly enters the tournament. Meanwhile, Lila has found a place on a pirate ship, embracing her newfound abilities and thirst for adventure. As the games progress, old friends and new rivals emerge, and an ominous threat begins to rise from the shadows, endangering the balance between the Londons.
3. A Conjuring of Light
In the final installment, darkness descends upon Red London as an ancient enemy rises to power. Kell, Lila, and their allies must unite to confront the impending doom. The stakes are higher than ever as they battle to save not only their world but all the parallel Londons. Loyalties are tested, sacrifices are made, and the true nature of magic is revealed. As they fight against overwhelming odds, Kell and Lila's bond grows stronger, and they must draw upon all their strengths to protect what they hold dear and restore balance to the worlds.
V.E. Schwab's Shades of Magic series masterfully combines intricate world-building, dynamic characters, and a gripping plot to create a memorable and immersive fantasy adventure. The trilogy's blend of magic, adventure, and political intrigue has earned it a place among the most beloved fantasy series of contemporary literature.
