A Darker Shade of Magic by V. E. Schwab

A Darker Shade of Magic by V. E. Schwab is the first in an adult fantasy trilogy. We follow two main characters: Kell, who is a blood magician and can travel between the four parallel London’s; Grey, Red, White and Black, as an ambassador to the Red Empire, and Lila, a common thief, with no home or family, who wants nothing more than to be a pirate.

This was the first adult fantasy I have read, and fell quickly in love. This series has been compared to Harry Potter. I feel like probably because it’s set in London, and involves magic. I don’t really see a lot similarities between the series’ other than that. If you love fantasy with a ton of magic, messy politics and little to no love story, I’d recommend this book to you.

I realize this review isn’t very substantial but, every time I tried to expand I felt it was too “spoilery”. These are the key things you need to know. If this sounds remotely up your street, give it a try!