An Urban Fantasy with a Twist
‘Three Kinds of Lucky’ by Kim Harrison offers readers an immediately compelling urban fantasy set in a complex world where magic operates alongside a specialized sanitation service. The narrative, situated in the fictional city of St. Unoc, kicks off with a fascinating premise: mages congregate at St. Unoc University to hone their magical skills while sweepers, like protagonist Petra Grady, manage the dangerous byproduct of magic known as dross.
Intriguing Characters and Conflict
Protagonist Petra Grady stands out with her unique ability to manipulate shadow, a perilous byproduct that can fatally harm mages and humans alike. Her discovery thrusts her into a critical research project on dross, challenging her perception of the world around her. Harrison uses Petra to explore the class divide between mages and sweepers. The bitterness and jealousy that Grady feels towards mages, who often look down upon sweepers despite their vital role, adds a layer of complexity to her character.
A Fast-Paced, Complex World
One of the standout features of ‘Three Kinds of Lucky’ is its fast-paced plot and efficient storytelling. The tension quickly escalates, with significant, city-shattering events unfolding within a matter of days. While the rapid progression adds excitement, it occasionally hampers character development, with moments where readers might wish for deeper, more nuanced responses from Grady and her companions.
Why ‘Three Kinds of Lucky’ is a Must-Read
Despite the occasional drawback, ‘Three Kinds of Lucky’ excels in crafting an intricate magical system and an enthralling world. Harrison’s ability to blend engaging characters, societal conflicts, and a high-stakes plot makes this novel a captivating series opener. Fans of urban fantasy will find themselves quickly engrossed in the universe of St. Unoc, eagerly anticipating the next installment.
