A Darker Shade of Magic

There is a reason why I've rated this book 5/5. There are actually many reasons, but over anything and everything, I enjoyed this book more than I think I can describe with words. I fell in love with the story, with the characters, with the places they took me to... Truly, a work of art.

I have a few things I am nevertheless going to mention, but they don't affect my opinion on the book as a whole. I'm just picky when it comes to my favourites, and I have preferences (which doesn't mean that they should be included or anything like that). These are just little things I think I'd have enjoyed a tiny bit more, had I read them.

Okay, so, first: I absolutely ADORE Victoria's style. Her writing is beautiful, precise, concise. You don't know me, but I love concise writing, with less ornamentation and precise words that reflect the exact meaning the writer's trying to convey.

But (here it comes)... I miss a few of those striking quotes. I think I've seen a handful, but I live for incredible, show-stopping, unbelievably beautiful and/or crude quotes scattered through the book. And, to my liking, there weren't enough. The ones included were great, that I give her.

Next, I'd say the beginning was a little too long. Granted I stopped reading before it got really interesting, but I stopped because it... Wasn't that interesting before. Sure, I read about Kell, learned about his trips and about the kings and queens and his background. But maybe, just maybe, I'd have devoured this book in two days if the beginning was a little bit shorter.

And finally (I only managed to find three minor and actually nonexistent flaws), the death of both Dane twins. Especially Athos. Throughout the whole story they are described as ruthless, evil, cunning and ambitious rulers, and it shows. A lot. I loved every single bit of it. But, to my liking, the way they were killed off seemed rushed. And maybe it's just me, but Athos knew perfectly (or so it seemed) how the stone worked and the magic it was capable of creating. So, if that's the case, how come he dies like that? It seemed rushed (not impossible because he was, in fact, obsessed with power and magic). Astrid's was quite cool though, I loved the irony and the social justice.

Great things that deserve a special place in my heart: White London, Rhy, Calla.

Amazing things that made my life a million times better: Lila Bard, Kell Maresh, Holland Vosijk, Lila Bard, and oh, did I mention Lila Bard?

I’m going to wrap up with one single wish for the next book (which I’m starting in a few days): give Lila what she deserves. And by “what she deserves” I mean the whole fucking world.

See ya.