V.E. Schwab’s A Darker Shade of Magic is an inventive fantasy about parallel worlds. Kell is one of the last magicians who can travel between four Londons – and when he smuggles something dangerous out of one of them, he sets off a perilous adventure.
Get the A Darker Shade of Magic Audiobook on AmazonListen on Audible · also in Kindle & printWhat A Darker Shade of Magic is about
A Darker Shade of Magic imagines four parallel versions of London: Grey (our magic-poor world), Red (where magic thrives), White (where magic is starved and brutal), and the long-sealed Black London. Kell is a rare Antari magician able to move between them, serving as a messenger for royalty.
When Kell is tricked into carrying a perilous artifact, he crosses paths with Delilah “Lila” Bard, a sharp-tongued thief from Grey London, and the two are swept into a dangerous quest. Fast, imaginative, and full of adventure, it’s the first book in Schwab’s Shades of Magic trilogy.
| Author | V.E. Schwab |
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Why A Darker Shade of Magic is great on audio
The vivid, multi-world setting and quick pace make the A Darker Shade of Magic audiobook an immersive, fun listen. Easy to get swept along for a commute or a weekend.
Who should listen
For readers who love portal and parallel-world fantasy, magic systems, and adventurous duos. If you want slow literary fantasy, this leans toward brisk, plot-driven storytelling.
If you like A Darker Shade of Magic, listen to these next
- The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
- A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
- The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson
How to listen to A Darker Shade of Magic
A Darker Shade of Magic is available on Audible and Amazon. If you’re new to Audible you can listen with a free trial, or buy the audiobook (also in Kindle and print) on Amazon.
Get the A Darker Shade of Magic Audiobook on AmazonListen on Audible · also in Kindle & printFrequently asked questions
How many Londons are there?
Four parallel Londons – Grey, Red, White, and the sealed-off Black London – which is central to the book’s worldbuilding.
Is it part of a series?
Yes – it’s the first book in V.E. Schwab’s Shades of Magic trilogy.
How can I listen to the audiobook?
It’s available on Audible and Amazon. New Audible members can start with a free trial, or buy it on Amazon.
Who are the main characters?
Kell, a rare magician who can travel between worlds, and Lila Bard, a daring thief.