City of Ashes (Mortal Instruments)
Margaret K. McElderry - Margaret K. McElderry
Release date: 2008-03-25
Hardcover
Author: Cassandra Clare
Children's Books - Young Adult Fiction, Children: Young Adult (Gr. 7-9), Horror & Ghost Stories, Juvenile Fiction / Lifestyles / City & Town Life, Juvenile Fiction / Science Fiction, Fantasy, Magic, Juvenile Fiction / Social Issues / New Experience, Lifestyles - City & Town Life, Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Magic, Social Issues - New Experience, Demonology, Juvenile Fiction, Magic, Supernatural
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City of Ashes (Mortal Instruments)
Date undefinedAs someone who read Cassandra Clare's Draco Trilogy (DT) fan fiction a very long time ago, I remember feeling underwhelmed after reading "City of Bones" because a great deal of the characterization of Jace and Clary came from the DT. Now, over a year later, I have returned to the series and just completed reading "City of Ashes." I was very pleased to see a progression from heavily DT-influenced characterization of the protagonists to something that is more subtle. This time around I only recognized one joke recycled from her fan fiction days and am glad that she continues to move away from the comfort zone of what she had previously written.
I gave this book four stars because one scene in particular had my heart thumping madly. (Note: SPOILERS.) It was very chilling to read CC's description of the death of Brother Jeremiah, who is one of the Silent Brothers, especially because at first we don't know where the sound is coming from; who is making the sound; and because we can't see anything. ("We" in the context of Jace's perspective.) I hadn't felt anything akin to that feeling since the graveyard scene in which Voldemort rises in HP:Goblet of Fire.
The only bone I have to pick with this book is the incestuous relationship between Clary and Jace. I don't believe that they're really blood-related like the plot wants us to believe, so the physical aspect doesn't particularly bother me. What bothers me is the fact that their incestuous relationship isn't given more than a side glance from the other characters, implying that it's not a big deal. (That in itself implies to me that they're not related.) I wish more discussion had taken place amongst the characters to firmly introduce the morality of this issue into the plot in order to create more tension. In short, more development needs to occur about this issue.
City of Ashes (Mortal Instruments)
Date undefinedThis book was AWESOME!! I loved the City of Bones which is the 1st book in this series in case you didn't know. And if you haven't read the 1st book in the series you need too!! Well Clary has found out that she has a brother, Jace, who in the 1st book she started crushin' on & they actually kissed. So now in City of Ashes they have to deal with the awkwardness of once having major feelings for each other. Now that they know that they are brother & sister they really have a hard time dealing with the situation. And moving on... Clarys best-friend Simon has confessed his love for her & she doesn't have the same feelings for him, but she totally loves him like a brother. Hmmm.. Clary has one messy situation on her hands in the guy department! Alec has started having somewhat of a relationship with Mangus Bane who is basicly the wizard on hand. Mangus is openly gay but Alec however is not and is terrified of being outed to everyone. Issabelle is same old Isabelle not alot going on with her that is one thing that I hope we get to find out in the next book in the series, what is she like. Because for me at least I feel like there is no background telling, really anything about her personal life in the books. Oh! However we do get to know Alec & Issabelle parents in this book. Also we find out alot more about Luke and meet a new weregirl Maia. She adds an interesting twist. One more thing Simons story also takes an interesting turn!! So if you are into YA Fantasy then this is a series you will love to read!! Be sure to read City of Bones first!!
City of Ashes (Mortal Instruments)
Date undefinedThis story is amazing!!!! You have got to buy it!!! I am so hook to it!!! Is super awsome. The characters, the atmosphere, the setting...everithing!!! Is one of the best stories I have read in my whole life!!! Is definetly at me top 5 list!!!City of Bones (Mortal Instruments)
