A review by deedireads
Sword Catcher by Cassandra Clare

adventurous mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

This is Cassandra Clare’s first step away from her massive Shadowhunters universe, and while it’s not perfect, overall I call it a success. It’s definitely different from her previous work, and she’s succeeded in showing that she can write much more adult books.

High level, I enjoyed it and will surely be continuing with the series! The three main characters are excellent. I loved the politics of the world, especially the parts that echo and emphasize Jewish people’s historical oppression and status as outcasts. I also liked how there are clearly lots of tangly layers to uncover in terms of plot.

That said, she’s taking her time here. The Cassie Clare trend of too-long books continues. I think (hope) that this medium-paced book is setting us up for some truly gripping stuff in book two. (Plus, to set expectations for her Shadowhunters fans: there is definitely going to be romance here, but she’s only given us hints at who the OTPs are.)

Last thing: I’m still annoyed that she chose the name Kel for this adopted-royal-bodyguard main character (VE Schwab’s Shades of Magic readers get it). There is a whole universe of names out there for you to choose from, and when people have already accused you of plagiarism in the past, I would think you’d steer clear?? There’s also a magical stone, lol. But I’m happy to report that that’s where the similarities between books end — overall these are very different stories. But like, come on, lol.
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