City of Ashes is the second book in the Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare, a book series that I have been dying to read since my adoration of the Infernal Devices series written by the same author. After finally finishing City of Bones (the first book in the series) on Sunday night, I was elated by the fact that I'd picked up City of Ashes a few weeks ago in preparation for this time and dove straight into the story.
A little overview for those of you who haven't read/heard of this series: The Mortal Instruments is a YA urban fantasy series set in New York City featuring Shadowhunters (half-angel demon slayers) and Downworlders (vampires, werewolves and warlocks). The main character in this series is Clary Fray, a fifteen year old girl who, until the beginning of City of Bones, believes herself to be a simple 'mundane' human. As the book progresses, it is revealed that Clary is in fact a Shadowhunter, as both of her parents were before her. Enter Jace, a Shadowhunter as pretty as he is sarcastic, to unwillingly take Clary under his wing after the two of them discover secrets Clary didn't know that she already knew. (If that makes sense.) I don't want to give too much more away, as I don't want to reveal the storyline of the books!
Summed up in four words: Magic, sarcasm, secrets and violence.
I am currently on page 134 of City of Ashes and thought I'd give my thoughts of the book so far:
I'm not sure how I currently feel about the characters in this book. Despite the fact that he has his reasons, I'm finding Jace a little irritating with his attitude and his general sense of not really caring about anything. However, his relationship with Clary has taken a twist (thanks to the spectacular revelation at the end of the last book) and I'm finding it very interesting to read how they interact with each other. Also due to the plot-twist, I'm finding Alec a lot more agreeable. I just find him a lot more casual and chilled, which definitely does a lot for his character. And his little flirtation with Magnus Bane is making me fangirl like crazy. The dynamic between Simon and Clary is also rather adorable (I've always kind of shipped the two of them) despite Clary's internal hesitations and questions.
Story-line-wise, I'm liking where it's going. The plot follows on seamlessly from where the last book left off and little twists here and there are fixing together to provide the main storyline for this book. The appearance of Maryse Lightwood has me a little conflicted - is she supposed to be good, or not? - but I'm enjoying the involvement of the werewolves and the warlock Magnus Bane.
Overall: I'm really enjoying several elements of this book, whilst reserving my judgement on others. I'll be posting my full thoughts on this book as soon as I finish it!
I saw this book in Waterstones and I wasn't sure whether or not to buy it, I've read the first one so I think I might give it a go! Great post.
ReplyDeleteANIKA MILLER // UK FASHION AND STYLE BLOG
I'd say to go for it! x
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