"A Gathering of Shadows" is the second book in the Shades of Magic trilogy by V.E. Schwab. The story continues to follow the adventures of Kell, a magician with the rare ability to travel between parallel Londons: Red London, Grey London, White London, and Black London. As tensions rise, Kell becomes embroiled in a dangerous competition known as the Element Games, which tests the skills of magicians. The novel also features Lila Bard, a cunning thief from Grey London, who seeks her own destiny. As the characters navigate political intrigue and magical challenges, they confront their pasts and the consequences of their choices, setting the stage for an epic confrontation.