A review by kamrynharned
A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab

adventurous

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

A Darker Shade of Magic was just interesting enough, had just enough character development and just enough intrigue to be enjoyable. Basically, the definition of a 3 star in my mind. The magic system felt underdeveloped, and the climax and action was saved for the last 50 pages. The story fizzled out quickly at the end and left little to be desired, which is unfortunate seeing that it is a series. I at least appreciated that it didn’t end on a cliffhanger. I also appreciated the non-romantic bond of Lila and KL; adding romance to the plot wouldn’t have done it any favors.  Lots of bloodshed, lots of violence, but I felt like I had very little investment in the story.  At times I enjoyed the writing style, but then the dialogue turn so narrative and it would throw me out of the story.