A Gathering of Shadows

A Gathering of Shadows, the second novel in V. E. Schwab's acclaimed Shades of Magic series, continues to weave an extraordinary tale of magic, adventure, and danger.

Four months have passed since the enigmatic shadow stone came into Kell's possession. In the aftermath, Kell, one of the last Antari magicians who can travel between parallel Londons, finds himself grappling with the weight of recent events. His path crossed with the fierce and courageous Delilah Bard, Rhy, his brother, was gravely injured, and the malevolent Dane twins were overthrown. Kell cast the shadow stone and Holland's dying body through the rift into the treacherous Black London, a city consumed by dark magic.

Despite the cataclysmic events, life in Red London begins to edge back towards normality. However, the tranquility is deceptive. Rhy is sombre and changed, scarred by the recent past, while Kell is consumed by a gnawing sense of guilt. He has ceased his dangerous smuggling habits, but is haunted by foreboding dreams and memories of Lila, who vanished after their last encounter.

Red London is abuzz with excitement as it prepares for the Element Games, a grand magical competition designed to test the greatest magicians from across the lands. As the city dons a festive garb, a certain pirate ship sails closer to its shores, bringing old friends back into Kell’s life and ushering new adventures.

Amidst the celebrations, a sinister force stirs. A long-silent city begins to awaken. Black London, believed to be lost to malevolent magic, starts to rise once more. In a world where balance is precarious, the resurgence of Black London threatens the safety and existence of the other Londons. With peril looming, the survival of Red London could mean the downfall of another.

A Gathering of Shadows is a spellbinding journey of magic and resilience. V. E. Schwab enthralls readers with her rich storytelling and multifaceted characters, setting the stage for a tale where the power of magic can both unite and destroy. Dive into this gripping sequel and explore the intricate tapestry of worlds that only Schwab can conjure.