autumn_sunshine's review
5.0
It was refreshing, after rereading the mortal instruments series, and watching that slowly go downhill after book 3 and turn into a chaotic mess of pandering to the fans, to see Cassandra Clare write something from the heart with realistic characters and a coherent plot.
If anything, this book really saved her as an author for me. It let me know that she still had some authentic ideas to present, and wasn’t just lurking on fan fic websites about her first three novels and repeating the idiotic works posted there.
I’m sorry if you ever read this one, but it’s true that after city of lost souls I never wanted to pick up a Cassandra Clare book again. But then this book came out, and I was intrigued because there is no more of that Jace Clary “woe is me” narrative.
Thank you!
If anything, this book really saved her as an author for me. It let me know that she still had some authentic ideas to present, and wasn’t just lurking on fan fic websites about her first three novels and repeating the idiotic works posted there.
I’m sorry if you ever read this one, but it’s true that after city of lost souls I never wanted to pick up a Cassandra Clare book again. But then this book came out, and I was intrigued because there is no more of that Jace Clary “woe is me” narrative.
Thank you!
kate001's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
missfantasyfiction's review against another edition
5.0
I just... I don't even know what to say. New favourite series.
I don't think I've ever been so in love with a book since Six of Crows. And Will Herondale definitely gives Kaz a run for his money (I'm sorry Kaz - I still love you).
This book just reminded me why I love reading. Connecting so much with the characters, becoming immersed in a wholly new world.
I normally hate love triangles. But this... *wistful sigh* It's the most non-toxic, pure, heartwarming thing ever, yet still with the capacity to make you cry, laugh, swoon. I also normally take a vehement dislike to one character, and a passionate love to the other. But I love Jem and Will both so much it's actually not okay.
There were so many twists and turns, and after the immense cliffhanger this ends on, I can't wait to continue the series.
I'm also in love with this aesthetic and the vibe of the books. They have such a tangible, unique setting and time period. 1878 London meets Shadowhunters? Yes please.
I will be nagging everyone I know to read this (you know who you are...) This series truly doesn't receive enough attention. The fact that The Mortal Instrument is far more famous is incredible to me, because, despite loving that, I do think this is better. As I say, I'm so excited to read the rest - sleep deprivation and heartbreak here we come! :D
I don't think I've ever been so in love with a book since Six of Crows. And Will Herondale definitely gives Kaz a run for his money (I'm sorry Kaz - I still love you).
This book just reminded me why I love reading. Connecting so much with the characters, becoming immersed in a wholly new world.
I normally hate love triangles. But this... *wistful sigh* It's the most non-toxic, pure, heartwarming thing ever, yet still with the capacity to make you cry, laugh, swoon. I also normally take a vehement dislike to one character, and a passionate love to the other. But I love Jem and Will both so much it's actually not okay.
There were so many twists and turns, and after the immense cliffhanger this ends on, I can't wait to continue the series.
I'm also in love with this aesthetic and the vibe of the books. They have such a tangible, unique setting and time period. 1878 London meets Shadowhunters? Yes please.
I will be nagging everyone I know to read this (you know who you are...) This series truly doesn't receive enough attention. The fact that The Mortal Instrument is far more famous is incredible to me, because, despite loving that, I do think this is better. As I say, I'm so excited to read the rest - sleep deprivation and heartbreak here we come! :D
amymprice's review
4.0
Holy hell it’s almost been 10 years since I read this book?!
I forgot how much I love Will and Jem’s friendship and Tessa’s immediate acceptance and Charlotte and Henry’s relationship. Pray for me as I continue my first chronological reread of all the Shadowhunters books
I forgot how much I love Will and Jem’s friendship and Tessa’s immediate acceptance and Charlotte and Henry’s relationship. Pray for me as I continue my first chronological reread of all the Shadowhunters books
navoda's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
shannonsmoot's review
adventurous
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
helloakosisam's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
fizzingwhizbee's review
4.0
I liked it wayyyyyy more than City of Bones, I think the historical setting is a better way to be introduced to this universe. I’ll probably read the rest of the series, but maybe not right away :)