The Fragile Threads of Power (Threads of Power #1) by V.E. Schwab

"Set in Schwab's Red, White and Grey Londons, The Fragile Threads of Power is a new series that introduces the reader to a handful of new faces, welcomes back the old ones and of course, leaves the door wide open for more drama, intrigue and adventure."

3 Stars

Pros: Kell/Lila's relationship. It's not perfect but there are some truly tender moments between them, and I really enjoyed those. Rhy/Alucard/Nadiya and Ren are an odd family but a tender and loving one, sincere and comforting in its genuineness.

Cons: Though I enjoyed the book every time I picked it up, I didn't find myself itching to sit down and read.

Full Review:

A rebellion, called The Hand has started in Red London because the magic is failing, and the people blame King Rhy. A device of extreme power called a Persalis is stolen by agents of The Hand from the Ferase Stras and Maris Patrol calls in her favor to Delilah Bard to retrieve it.

The thief brings the Persalis to a repair shop in the Shal, which is run by a girl, Tes, who like Alucard can see the threads of magic but can also manipulate them. It's a rare gift and a dangerous one. She fixes the Persalis before she realizes what it can do. And when she does, she tries to destroy it but unfortunately, mercenaries hired by The Hand manage to track her down and she finds herself unwittingly embroiled in murder and mayhem.

Lila and Kell, who have been pirating for the last 7 years return to London to try and learn more about the Persalis. Thier relationship has grown and though Lila is still headstrong and Kell is still a self-sacrificing, martyr, somehow, they work well together. But ever since the final battle with Osaron, Kells magic is broken. Whenever he uses it, he feels horrible pain and so Lila has spent the last few years teaching him how to fight with a sword instead of relying on his power.

Meanwhile, Kosika, a girl who stumbled upon the body of Holland in the Silver Wood and was given his powers, has been made Antari and the Queen of White London. She's young, devout, headstrong and powerful and with a familiar hand gently guiding her, her power as well as White London's power steadily grows.

There was a lot happening in this book and a few new characters but not so much that it felt overwhelming. The storyline was easy to follow, the new characters interesting and unique and for the most part, the story flowed well. But for some reason, and this could just be me, I didn't feel the urge to sit down and read. I enjoyed the book when I remembered to pick it up but it didn't grab me like the others.

It was an interesting start to a new series in Schwabs' Londons and I'm looking forward to seeing how she expands upon it.

Comments

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