The story continues from where the first book ended. Readers should know that this series has a continuing story arc and needs to be read in order. However, I’ll keep this spoiler free.
Clary Fray is still grappling with the revelations she recently learned about her family. Her mother remains in a coma so she’s having to figure things out on her own, which is one of the reasons I found this book more interesting. When Valentine gets his hands on the second Mortal Instrument, the Soul-Sword, the Inquisitor (the leader of the Clave) turns her focus on Jace, accusing him of complicity with Valentine. Downworld children are also being murdered and the finger pointing seems to be in the wrong direction. Simon’s life has changed radically as a result of an unfortunate bite and he’s struggling with those turn of events.
I really liked the narrator for this story as she had a better grasp on the storytelling and managed the characters very well. It was also faster paced as a lot was going on. I was much more engaged as there was so much less inane chatter and a lot more bonding between the mains. Clary is having to grow up fast and it’s fascinating to discover her skills at the same time she does. The same goes for Jace and it’s obvious there’s something different about these two. Valentine’s machinations seem to be a step ahead of those trying to stop him and his cruelty has no limits. The climax of the story was exciting but also very revealing. I’m convinced my theory about Jace and Clary is correct as there were events near the end that seem to confirm my point of view. I enjoyed this story and am now looking forward to the next, especially since that silly love triangle is over and the explosive ending left me with questions I need answered!
Book Info
- Release Date: March 13, 2008
- Series: The Mortal Instruments #2
- Narrator: Natalie Moore
- Audio Length: 12 hours, 20 minutes
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I have had a kind of “maybe I should read these books”, feeling about this series. I think we all need more reading hours in our day. Enjoyed your review, as always, Jonetta!
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Thank you, Marialyce! I must admit that without the group read, I might not have continued. However, I also have this two-book rule before quitting a series (unless it’s really awful). I’m glad I stuck with it.
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I had seen the movie city of bones. felt childish and amateur. decided not to read the books 😀 but great you enjoyed it!
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That first book was far into the immature side but this one shifted back to a better balance.
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I could not get past COB, but this review leads me to believe it gets better? I think I had some of the same problems with that first book that you did, silly love triangle indeed!
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I started this book dragging my feet. In fact, I saved it for the last of the month as I was dreading it but determined to meet my group read responsibilities. It not only got better but was really good! The characterizations developed intelligently with some interesting twists and that stupid, ill-conceived triangle went away.
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This seems to be a series that people either love, or hate. As I don’t read much fantasy, I’m not sure this is a series I’ll every get around to reading.
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I can understand why. The first book challenged me but showed promise at the very end. Jury is still out but the signs are really good.
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It’s always a case of so many books, so little time. And it sounds like you’ve gotten into the series, good luck, and, enjoy! 😀
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Thanks, Alexandra!
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Great review as always. I’ve only read the first 3 and not seen the movie – tv versions. I’ll be interested to see what you think as you go along. It’s a bit YA for me. The twists and turns were breaking my neck and my heart. I wanted the romance to go better.
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Thanks, Anne! It’s more YA than I’m used to as well, which is the challenge. But, I’ve found my happy place. The romances in these are always underwhelming for me because of their youth. We will see!
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It sounds like this one really surprised you, Jonetta! I love it when that happens! Terrific review of what sounds like a unique read. ♥️
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Thanks, Jennifer! I’m so out of my reading comfort zone with this series😏
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Great review, Jonetta! Glad you enjoyed this one. I found this series to (mostly) get better as it progressed.
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Thank you, Darinda! That’s so good to hear.
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I just read and enjoyed the first book in this series last year. I did the ebook for that one but based on your review, I may go the audiobook route for this book.
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This narrator was so much better! I highly recommend. Plus, I could speed up the pace.
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