Shades of Magic, Book 2

Synopsis: It has been four months since a mysterious obsidian stone fell into Kell’s possession. Four months since his path crossed with Delilah Bard. Four months since Prince Rhy was wounded, and since the nefarious Dane twins of White London fell, and four months since the stone was cast with Holland’s dying body through the rift–back into Black London.

Now, restless after having given up his smuggling habit, Kell is visited by dreams of ominous magical events, waking only to think of Lila, who disappeared from the docks as she always meant to do. As Red London finalizes preparations for the Element Games–an extravagant international competition of magic meant to entertain and keep healthy the ties between neighboring countries–a certain pirate ship draws closer, carrying old friends back into port.

And while Red London is caught up in the pageantry and thrills of the Games, another London is coming back to life. After all, a shadow that was gone in the night will reappear in the morning. But the balance of magic is ever perilous, and for one city to flourish, another London must fall.

Review: I really had a great time with the first volume and I could not wait to get into the sequel. And then, how to resist this fabulous French cover? Everything made me want to read it!

We therefore find Kell and Lila, our two heroes who live their lives each on their own. Kell is still trying to manage the consequences of the previous events with Rhys, but it’s not easy for either of them. For her part, Lila is visiting the world on a boat while trying to understand how everything works and mainly magic she seems to be able to handle. But an event will bring them closer, an event where they will be incognito: a competition of magic. In addition to that, apparent changes are being felt in the other London, things that can only cause big upheavals for the future.

Like for the first novel, I loved discovering this story. The characters have to deal with a lot of problems here, and it was interesting to see how they acted on their side. I really liked Lila, she is a free spirit, she has objectives, sometimes beyond her, but she always makes every effort to make everything go in her direction. Kell is more lost in this novel and we understand his doubts. Indeed, the situation in which he is, has changed completely and running away is attractive.

New events have been initiated here and it is true that I am once again very curious to be able to dive into the third volume to discover all that the author has planned for us!

 

21 thoughts on “A Gathering of Shadows by V.E. Schwab

  1. Silvia

    I’ve been hearing lots of great things about this series and I have a feeling I should give the first book a go, it really sounds like an exciting read 😀 And the cover looks intriguing for sure!

    1. Melliane

      yes it is so much fun!

  2. kindlemom1

    I really do want to read this, I’ve such good reviews for it!

    1. Melliane

      it’s good!

  3. Kimberly @ Caffeinated Reviewer

    I am glad to see you are enjoying this trilogy. I keep eying book one!

    1. Melliane

      it’s so much fun

  4. Jenea’s Book Obsession

    This does sound like a fantastic series! And that cover is just amazing too! Glad you’re enjoy it.

    1. Melliane

      My fave is the French one

  5. blodeuedd

    I must say that French cover rocked

    1. Melliane

      right? Love it!

  6. Heidi

    I have got to read this series. I have read only one other book by this author, and I loved it. I keep reading positive reviews for this series, so I must make time for it.

    1. Melliane

      I also tried other some of her other novels

  7. Sophia Rose

    That sense of discovery for the characters sounds neat. The world of the stories is so creative. Enjoyed your review, Melliane!

    1. Melliane

      thanks!

  8. Kim @Book Swoon

    This is one of my favorite series—I’m so happy you’re enjoying it!!

    1. Melliane

      yes it was really good!

  9. Carole @ Carole's Random Life in Books

    I really have to set some time aside to read this series. It sounds so good. I am glad you enjoyed it!

  10. Mogsy @ BiblioSanctum

    Glad you enjoyed it! This series never did sweep me off my feet like I’d hoped, but I did have a good time 🙂

    1. Melliane

      I’m curious about book 3

  11. Melissa (My World...in words and pages)

    Oh this sounds good. Hope you are doing well. It’s been a while since we’ve been able to chat. Do take care.

  12. Carole Rae

    I’m glad the series is going well for you! And I do like the French cover best

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