I have read and loved the Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare and I was so excited for the release of Clockwork Angel, the first book in her new Infernal Devises series.
I am a huge fan of the Steampunk genre. I really enjoy when stories meld the elements of the Victorian era and rustic Steampunk attributes.
So, when Clockwork Angel was released, I immediately went and got a copy of the audiobook. I travel a lot for work and found myself wanting to stay in the car just a little longer to hear the next chapter in the story.
“When sixteen-year-old Tessa Gray crosses the ocean to find her brother, her destination is England, the time is the reign of Queen Victoria, and something terrifying is waiting for her in London’s Downworld, where vampires, warlocks and other supernatural folk stalk the gaslit streets. Only the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons, keep order amidst the chaos.Kidnapped by the mysterious Dark Sisters, members of a secret organization called The Pandemonium Club, Tessa soon learns that she herself is a Downworlder with a rare ability: the power to transform, at will, into another person. What’s more, the Magister, the shadowy figure who runs the Club, will stop at nothing to claim Tessa’s power for his own.
Friendless and hunted, Tessa takes refuge with the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, who swear to find her brother if she will use her power to help them. She soon finds herself fascinated by–and torn between–two best friends: James, whose fragile beauty hides a deadly secret, and blue-eyed Will, whose caustic wit and volatile moods keep everyone in his life at arm’s length…everyone, that is, but Tessa. As their search draws them deep into the heart of an arcane plot that threatens to destroy the Shadowhunters, Tessa realizes that she may need to choose between saving her brother and helping her new friends save the world…and that love may be the most dangerous magic of all.”
–Description from GoodReads
Tessa was a really great heroine. She wasn’t weak and yet, she wasn’t *so* strong that it was unbelievable. She was resolute when faced with the threat to her brother and realistic about her situation. She did what it took to survive and relied on her own strength and willpower to make it through.
In that, she reminded me a lot of Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games, which I absolutely loved.
There were twists and turns in the story that I didn’t see coming. And it was really great to get to be in the Shadowhunter world again. Will and Jem were interesting characters and not the typical two-dimensional love interests.
There’s Jem, with his mysterious condition, and Will, with his untold past. Tessa is drawn to each and it’s easy to see why. I still don’t know who I like better, and I don’t even get to pick!
The story was compelling and filled with action and I found myself wishing for the second book as soon as the first was through. I like that there was a definite resolution to the subplot of the story, with leeway to continue into future books.
Even though I know there will be a sequel, it was nice to have a resolution to this story.
All in all, this was one of my favorite stories of the year.
Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare combines Victorian England and steampunk elements for an action-filled story featuring warlocks, vampires and Demon Hunters.
I haven't read the Mortal Instruments series, but I really think I'd like Clockwork Angel. I love a good audiobook, so maybe I'll get my hands on that format!
Totally agree! This book was amazing! I think you make a really great point about the resolution to the story, while still leaving room for the next installment. I really hate when it feels like an author stopped mid-story to keep you coming back for the sequel. JK Rowling proved you didn't have to do it that way…and I'm glad Cassie Clare followed in her footsteps. I will say, though, I am DYING for Clockwork Prince to find out what was going on in that final scene!
Wonderful review, Arena! I've heard really great things on it and I can't wait to finally get myself a copy. I've never read any of Cassandra Clare's novels and I definitely need to start. Thanks, Arena! =)
Great review! I'm itching to read this…