The Mortal Instruments: City of Ashes by Cassandra Claire Review
The second novel in Cassandra Claire’s epic series, The Mortal Instruments: City of Ashes, really ups the ante in terms of action, drama and
mythology. Having just completed it for a second time, the novel really builds on the foundations of the first book and makes a bigger, more
open world within the same confines of New York City.
Faced with a startling truth, Clary struggles with her new life, being caught between her friend and the life they once shared and the new,
terrifying reality that demons and monsters roam the Earth and go hidden amongst the humans. Jace Wayland also struggles with a new reality, and
faces the scrutiny of the Clave, especially the judging eyes of The Inquisitor, a woman charged with upholding the laws of the Shadowhunters.
However they both will come to learn that their new realities are the least of their concerns, as Valentine returns, and brings an unstoppable
army that threatens to overrun the Shadowhunters. They must find a way to stop him before he can raise his army, but along the way they’ll face
shocking revelations, and twists and turns that all lead to a massive action scene that builds up to the next book in the series.
The depth of these characters and the supporting cast is phenomenal. The rich mythology introduced throughout this book really serves to
bring to life the bigger plot, and it’s easy to see why this series is not only so massive, but has spawned countless spin-offs. The complicated
relationships between these characters really builds up the drama ten-fold, and the introduction of modern social issues, (family, sexual
identity, etc), helps makes this one of the most compelling YA series to date. Tune in for the upcoming review of TMI: City of Glass, coming
soon!