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trashbagtv's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
sarahspencerknits's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
elrad515's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
raemow's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
sammyisobsessed24's review against another edition
3.0
3.5/5 Stars
While I enjoyed a lot about this book, especially the concepts of the four Londons, it fell flat somewhat. I found Delilah Bard to be an unenjoyable character who, from what I've vaguely heard about the sequels, does not get much better or more likable. She is too focused on not being like other women and cringing at the thought of "feminine" activities and dress styles. I understand V.E. Schwab wanted to write an independent, cut-throat heroin, but she took it a step too far in the "not like other girls" direction.
I enjoyed Kell and his backstory, as well as his connection to his brother. Although I wish the two could've interacted more.
This book set up many interesting ideas and created a magical and thrilling atmosphere. But things could've been expanded/executed more. I'm still contemplating whether I want to read the second novel.
While I enjoyed a lot about this book, especially the concepts of the four Londons, it fell flat somewhat. I found Delilah Bard to be an unenjoyable character who, from what I've vaguely heard about the sequels, does not get much better or more likable. She is too focused on not being like other women and cringing at the thought of "feminine" activities and dress styles. I understand V.E. Schwab wanted to write an independent, cut-throat heroin, but she took it a step too far in the "not like other girls" direction.
I enjoyed Kell and his backstory, as well as his connection to his brother. Although I wish the two could've interacted more.
This book set up many interesting ideas and created a magical and thrilling atmosphere. But things could've been expanded/executed more. I'm still contemplating whether I want to read the second novel.
beccam22's review against another edition
4.0
I’ve meant to continue this series every time I pick up this book and yet have never started the second and have reread this first book three times now.
It’s setting up a lot and I think has promise to be a great series. It feels a little clunky sometimes and the characters voices come off younger than we are told they are.
It’s setting up a lot and I think has promise to be a great series. It feels a little clunky sometimes and the characters voices come off younger than we are told they are.
booksnapsandcatnaps's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
Okay, so "A Darker Shade of Magic" is one of those books where the setting steals the show. I mean, parallel Londons with varying levels of magic? That's just genius, and it had me hooked right from the start.
I wanted to like the characters, but they felt flat. Kell and Lila are both pretty badass in their own ways, and their dynamic is compelling. The one detail about Lila at the end really has me eyeing the rest of the series.
Now, the plot... well, let's say it's not exactly breaking new ground. It's a solid story, but it won't blow your mind with its originality. The pacing is also a bit slower than you might expect for a dark, action-packed adventure. It's more like a leisurely stroll through a fantastical world, which is fine, but it might not be everyone's cup of tea.
What really stands out, though, is Schwab's writing style. There's just something about the way she writes that draws you in and keeps you engaged. It's like she has this signature tone that's just so captivating.
The ending was pretty satisfying and nicely wrapped up most of the loose ends. I'll continue with the trilogy, but I don't feel like I need to rush into it immediately.
Overall, "A Darker Shade of Magic" is a solid start to what promises to be an intriguing series. It may not be the most groundbreaking book out there, but it's worth a read, especially if you're into clever world-building and strong characters.
I wanted to like the characters, but they felt flat. Kell and Lila are both pretty badass in their own ways, and their dynamic is compelling. The one detail about Lila at the end really has me eyeing the rest of the series.
Now, the plot... well, let's say it's not exactly breaking new ground. It's a solid story, but it won't blow your mind with its originality. The pacing is also a bit slower than you might expect for a dark, action-packed adventure. It's more like a leisurely stroll through a fantastical world, which is fine, but it might not be everyone's cup of tea.
What really stands out, though, is Schwab's writing style. There's just something about the way she writes that draws you in and keeps you engaged. It's like she has this signature tone that's just so captivating.
The ending was pretty satisfying and nicely wrapped up most of the loose ends. I'll continue with the trilogy, but I don't feel like I need to rush into it immediately.
Overall, "A Darker Shade of Magic" is a solid start to what promises to be an intriguing series. It may not be the most groundbreaking book out there, but it's worth a read, especially if you're into clever world-building and strong characters.
calligator56's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
I enjoyed this book and I am ready for the next one in the series however, I am not a fan of the budding relationship between Kell and Lila. I know they only kissed twice but I fear the relationship will grow into the next books. I hope I end up rooting for them romantically but I don't want it to take away from the complex magic system and incredible word building that V.E. Schwab has brought us. I did not rate this book a 5-star read because I don't see myself reminiscing about this book in my future but it was still a great time!
rebekah_y's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5