The Fragile Threads of Power gives you everything a reader could want from a sequel series.
It’s been seven years since the ending of A Conjuring of Light, and the core cast has moved on with their lives. But with stirrings of a rebellion in the capital of Red London, it might just be time to get the gang back together.
What stood out to me most about this book was just how well Schwab knows her characters. Everyone feels so real, so fully three dimensional. I love how Schwab is not afraid to make Lila unlikeable, she’s the most powerful magician in the entire world, and a fantastic brawler. She can be cruel, she can be selfish and she will do anything for the people she loves. Lila was exactly what I needed this month. I loved how her relationship with Kell has developed in the seven years since we’ve seen them. Kell and Lila are different people who like and value different things, but you never question their loyalty to one another.
While reading Threads I kept thinking about identity, and what makes you you. After the events of A Conjuring of Light, Kell’s relationship with magic has been severed. He can still cast, but doing so causes him debilitating pain. Through flashbacks you see how Kell has been coping and coming to terms (or not) with his new reality. Who is Kell if he’s not an Antari? Can he become something else?
This is in contrast to Alucard, who has blossomed into his role of Consort to the King and navigating his new family, his new court and the past that haunts him. Alucard was a fast favourite for me and I appreciate the different direction that Schwab took with his arc.
I also really enjoyed the new characters we are introduced to in Threads. Tes, an apprentice at a shop that fixes magical items really stood out, and has the possibility to become a huge player by the end of the series. Rhys’s wife and the new Queen of Arnes Nadiya is also an interesting mystery. Can you trust her? Can you trust anyone?
Lastly, I had no idea where this book was going to go. There’s the stereotype that fantasy novels are heavily trope based. But every beat in the plot took me by surprise, but by the time I was done, looking back there was no other way for this book to go. This book is exceptionally crafted.
There’s a lot I can’t say, because the less you know the more fun you’ll have with this one.
I cannot wait to read the next book in this series. I’m so excited to see what VE Schwab does next!!
