Shades of Magic Series Books in Order

Shades of Magic Series by V.E. Schwab is a fantasy trilogy set across four parallel Londons — each with a different relationship to magic, from Red London (where magic is abundant and joyful) to White London (where magic is fought over and feared) to Grey London (our London, magic-depleted) to Black London (destroyed by magic long ago). Kell is one of the last Antari — magicians rare enough to travel between the Londons — and his chance encounter with a Grey London thief named Delilah Bard sets in motion a catastrophe neither of them intended.

Schwab is one of fantasy's most compelling contemporary voices, and the Shades of Magic trilogy is her most fully realized world. The four-London concept is brilliantly executed — each version of the city has its own texture, its own politics, its own relationship with the magic that defines their differences. The contrast creates constant dramatic irony and genuine world-building pleasure.

Kell and Delilah are an excellent pairing — complementary capabilities, different relationships to loyalty and obligation, and a dynamic that develops across the trilogy with intelligence and emotional conviction. The action is inventively choreographed; the magic system is consistent and creatively applied.

Begin with A Darker Shade of Magic and read in order. Fans of Patrick Rothfuss, Leigh Bardugo, and fantasy with strong character dynamics and original world-building will find the Shades of Magic trilogy essential. Schwab at her best.