What I really like about this series is that while it's lightweight progression fantasy at its core (just with a slightly more 21st century shine), it maintains a strong throughline about the insidiousness of capitalism, and how much the game is rigged against those forced to play it. It adds some depth to Stephan's journey and provides a more

That said, I do feel like An Instruction of Shadow suffers quite a bit from middle book syndrome. There are a lot of different monsters (characters of various shadowy motivations) and different fight scenes, but none of it really feels like there is a cohesive whole until the last few chapters. Various characters ask Stephan why he wants to find his father and frankly, it's a good question: Stephan himself seems to often forget about this in lieu of exchanging barbs with random side characters instead of focusing on the overarching mystery.

I'm curious enough to see where things go next, and hopefully that Jacka will commit to a relatively tight series that maintains the things it does best.

An Instruction in Shadow is a solid follow-up that deepens the world introduced in An Inheritance of Magic while keeping the pace quick and the stakes high. Stephen is growing into his powers and carving out a place for himself in a society that would very much prefer he didn’t. This book leans more heavily into magical politics and power plays, and while not every thread from the first book is picked back up, the new players and factions more than make up for it.

The magic system remains one of the series' standout features. It’s clear, detailed, and makes sense in a way that grounds even the wilder moments. There’s a lot of technical explanation at times, which I found interesting, but I can see how it might slow the pace a bit for some readers. Personally, I liked how it made the consequences of each choice feel more concrete.

Stephen continues to be a likable lead. He’s smart, resourceful, and often in over his head, which makes the moments where he scrapes through all the more satisfying. His familiar, Hobbes, brings some levity without feeling forced, and I thought their dynamic gave the story some welcome warmth. Byron, the new character leading the Winged, is still a bit of a mystery by the end, but in a good way—enough is revealed to stay intriguing without giving too much away.

The book doesn't move the overall plot forward dramatically, but it lays down important groundwork. We get more insight into Stephen’s family, a better understanding of the magical elite, and glimpses of much bigger things coming. It’s one of those books that feels like a deep breath before a storm.

All in all, An Instruction in Shadow is a great continuation of the series. It may not have the same sense of discovery as the first book, but it trades that for a stronger sense of direction and complexity. I’m definitely on board for whatever comes next.

In An Instruction in Shadow, the second entry in Benedict Jacka’s Inheritance of Magic series, protagonist Stephen Oakwood digs deeper into the veiled politics of the wortld while pursuing the mystery of his father’s disappearance. No longer the novice from the first book, Stephen now wields more magic, has a better grasp of the craft, and is determined to uncover long-buried family secrets.

The story builds on the foundation laid in the debut novel, expanding the scope of its magical society and introducing new factions and players, including the enigmatic Winged and Stephen’s estranged mother. Despite gaining power, Stephen remains entangled in the web of influence and hierarchy that governs the magical elite, a group that views his independence as a threat.

Jacka continues to develop a hard magic system with textbook-level precision. For fans of highly structured magical logic, this is a strength. Others may find the detailed explanations an obstacle to narrative momentum. While the worldbuilding is rich and original, it sometimes comes at the cost of character depth or thematic cohesion.

The plot is more action-driven than its predecessor, and there is a stronger focus on political intrigue and shifting alliances. Still, not all characters are given the time or space to develop, with some key players from the first book noticeably sidelined. The novel hints at broader socio-economic commentary, particularly around inherited privilege and resource hoarding, But stops short of offering systemic critique, instead emphasizing individual ingenuity and perseverance.

Stephen himself remains a relatable lead, though some readers may find his rapid progression in skill and knowledge strains believability. His familiar, Hobbes, provides comic relief and emotional grounding, stealing more than a few scenes.

The book closes on a cliffhanger that points toward a more expansive narrative arc in future installments. While An Instruction in Shadow stumbles in places, it demonstrates clear potential for the series to grow into something greater. Jacka’s voice remains confident, and for readers already invested in Stephen’s journey, the series still holds promise.

Liked this so much I read it for a second time. Satisfying urban fantasy series. I really enjoy Benedict Jacka’s storing telling. I am always happy to spend time with his characters, his plots are engaging, and there is enough humour lighten things and keep me happy. The whole is totally believable fiction. I say this because book two in the series doesn’t move the big story on much at all. But that’s okay for me. We learn a little more about Stephen, the main character, and more about his parents and the extended family. A little more about the magic system being used. A little more about The Houses. There are little hints that things are going to continue to build up as the series continues. Next book please. Now would be nice. Thank you to Little, Brown Book Group UK and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.

3.5 stars
I really enjoyed the next instalment in this series, the book left off immediately where the previous one ended. It created a good balance between the mystery and at hand and also expanding on the world we got to know in the first. My personal gripe would be that it doesn't move the general story along very much at all and does end really abruptly. The stakes have definitely been raised and I'm really looking forward to reading the next one!

4.25 ⭐

We join Stephen Oakwood and his faithful cat Hobbes once more as he continues to navigates the hidden world of Drucrafting in twenty-first century London.

This was such a fun and easy read. Jacka seamlessly blends the tension and mystery with humour and perfectly captures the tone and sheer stupidity of an average 21 year old Londoner.

In this sequel the stakes are raised and you’re left wanting more. I can’t wait to see where Stephen’s story goes.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting me access in exchange for an honest review.