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The Infernal Devices #2
Clockwork Prince
In the magical underworld of Victorian London, Tessa Gray has at last found safety with the Shadowhunters. But that safety proves fleeting when rogue forces in the Clave plot to see her protector, Charlotte, replaced as head of the Institute. If Charlotte loses her position, Tessa will be out on the street—and easy prey for the mysterious Magister, who wants to use Tessa’s powers for his own dark ends.
With the help of the handsome, self-destructive Will and the fiercely devoted Jem, Tessa discovers that the Magister’s war on the Shadowhunters is deeply personal. He blames them for a long-ago tragedy that shattered his life. To unravel the secrets of the past, the trio journeys from mist-shrouded Yorkshire to a manor house that holds untold horrors, from the slums of London to an enchanted ballroom where Tessa discovers that the truth of her parentage is more sinister than she had imagined. When they encounter a clockwork demon bearing a warning for Will, they realize that the Magister himself knows their every move—and that one of their own has betrayed them.
Tessa finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, but her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will—the wall he has built around himself is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers about who she is and what she was born to do?
As their dangerous search for the Magister and the truth leads the friends into peril, Tessa learns that when love and lies are mixed, they can corrupt even the purest heart.
With the help of the handsome, self-destructive Will and the fiercely devoted Jem, Tessa discovers that the Magister’s war on the Shadowhunters is deeply personal. He blames them for a long-ago tragedy that shattered his life. To unravel the secrets of the past, the trio journeys from mist-shrouded Yorkshire to a manor house that holds untold horrors, from the slums of London to an enchanted ballroom where Tessa discovers that the truth of her parentage is more sinister than she had imagined. When they encounter a clockwork demon bearing a warning for Will, they realize that the Magister himself knows their every move—and that one of their own has betrayed them.
Tessa finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, but her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will—the wall he has built around himself is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers about who she is and what she was born to do?
As their dangerous search for the Magister and the truth leads the friends into peril, Tessa learns that when love and lies are mixed, they can corrupt even the purest heart.
501 pages, Paperback
First published December 6, 2011
About the author
Cassandra Clare
203 books273k followersCassandra Clare was born to American parents in Tehran, Iran and spent much of her childhood travelling the world with her family, including one trek through the Himalayas as a toddler where she spent a month living in her father’s backpack. She lived in France, England and Switzerland before she was ten years old.
Since her family moved around so much she found familiarity in books and went everywhere with a book under her arm. She spent her high school years in Los Angeles where she used to write stories to amuse her classmates, including an epic novel called “The Beautiful Cassandra” based on a Jane Austen short story of the same name (and which later inspired her current pen name).
After college, Cassie lived in Los Angeles and New York where she worked at various entertainment magazines and even some rather suspect tabloids where she reported on Brad and Angelina’s world travels and Britney Spears’ wardrobe malfunctions. She started working on her YA novel, City of Bones, in 2004, inspired by the urban landscape of Manhattan, her favourite city. She turned to writing fantasy fiction full time in 2006 and hopes never to have to write about Paris Hilton again.
Cassie’s first professional writing sale was a short story called “The Girl’s Guide to Defeating the Dark Lord” in a Baen anthology of humor fantasy. Cassie hates working at home alone because she always gets distracted by reality TV shows and the antics of her cats, so she usually sets out to write in local coffee shops and restaurants. She likes to work in the company of her friends, who see that she sticks to her deadlines.
City of Bones was her first novel. Sword Catcher is her most recent novel.
Since her family moved around so much she found familiarity in books and went everywhere with a book under her arm. She spent her high school years in Los Angeles where she used to write stories to amuse her classmates, including an epic novel called “The Beautiful Cassandra” based on a Jane Austen short story of the same name (and which later inspired her current pen name).
After college, Cassie lived in Los Angeles and New York where she worked at various entertainment magazines and even some rather suspect tabloids where she reported on Brad and Angelina’s world travels and Britney Spears’ wardrobe malfunctions. She started working on her YA novel, City of Bones, in 2004, inspired by the urban landscape of Manhattan, her favourite city. She turned to writing fantasy fiction full time in 2006 and hopes never to have to write about Paris Hilton again.
Cassie’s first professional writing sale was a short story called “The Girl’s Guide to Defeating the Dark Lord” in a Baen anthology of humor fantasy. Cassie hates working at home alone because she always gets distracted by reality TV shows and the antics of her cats, so she usually sets out to write in local coffee shops and restaurants. She likes to work in the company of her friends, who see that she sticks to her deadlines.
City of Bones was her first novel. Sword Catcher is her most recent novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32,541 reviews
October 24, 2012
One tiny request.
Will, can you please write a love letter to me too? So that I hold it in my hand all the time and daydream. Just imagine. Will in real life. *Sigh*
Boy you are one good heck of a writer. No wonder Tessa is all messed up.
I just LOVED it! 4.5/5 stars.
(-0.5 for the fact that, that letter was meant for me and also that Will is mine. xD)
Merged review:
Good news, I got almost all my pics back! :'D
*Desperation scene*
My heart... where is it...?
Ah, I can see it on the floor, broken into tiny little pieces. Jem. Will.
And me...
Cassandra Clare, you just broke my heart gazillion times. This book was flipping amazing! =') The plot, the characters, the writing, the story, the ending EVERYTHING was perfect! This series is so much better than the Mortal Instruments and please, PLEASE go and buy this book and read it already!
Will.
Jem.
Will.
Jem.
Will.
Jem.
'Ouch, my heart! Not again! *crys like in the above 5 pics again*' ='( 3
I demand Cassandra Clare to publish the third book right now or there might be news about a girl who committed suicide under Cassandra Clare's building because her third book in Infernal devices is gonna be published on 2012!
And If you love Will, you will listen to this song, because I broke down after listening to it. Totally describes Will and Tessa's relationship! :'(
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9ZVIA...
Infinity out of 5 stars! xD
-----------------------
My review while currently reading this book.
I seriously need to use this advice right now! xD
OMG! Will looks so hot in this pic ^.^
And Jem... *DIES* So freaking hot! <3
I want to be Tessa! =(
Will, can you please write a love letter to me too? So that I hold it in my hand all the time and daydream. Just imagine. Will in real life. *Sigh*
Boy you are one good heck of a writer. No wonder Tessa is all messed up.
I just LOVED it! 4.5/5 stars.
(-0.5 for the fact that, that letter was meant for me and also that Will is mine. xD)
Merged review:
Good news, I got almost all my pics back! :'D
*Desperation scene*
My heart... where is it...?
Ah, I can see it on the floor, broken into tiny little pieces. Jem. Will.
And me...
Cassandra Clare, you just broke my heart gazillion times. This book was flipping amazing! =') The plot, the characters, the writing, the story, the ending EVERYTHING was perfect! This series is so much better than the Mortal Instruments and please, PLEASE go and buy this book and read it already!
Will.
Jem.
Will.
Jem.
Will.
Jem.
'Ouch, my heart! Not again! *crys like in the above 5 pics again*' ='( 3
I demand Cassandra Clare to publish the third book right now or there might be news about a girl who committed suicide under Cassandra Clare's building because her third book in Infernal devices is gonna be published on 2012!
And If you love Will, you will listen to this song, because I broke down after listening to it. Totally describes Will and Tessa's relationship! :'(
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9ZVIA...
Infinity out of 5 stars! xD
-----------------------
My review while currently reading this book.
I seriously need to use this advice right now! xD
OMG! Will looks so hot in this pic ^.^
And Jem... *DIES* So freaking hot! <3
I want to be Tessa! =(
June 25, 2018
I enjoyed this reread SO SO SO MUCH!!! I can't believe I was ever petty enough to *vehemently dislike* this novel. Like almost every reread of The Infernal Devices I struggled to fall into the story in the beginning. Alas, I read the second half of the book in one sitting because I REFUSED to put it down. I'm so pleased that I can enjoy these books as an adult much much more than I did as a teen.
February 14, 2016
my video review/discussion can be found here: https://youtu.be/xL85QtJjUqE
SO MANY FEELINGS. ALL OF THE FEELINGS.
So many things were revealed in this book and I just can't get over everything that went down. MADNESS.
SO MANY FEELINGS. ALL OF THE FEELINGS.
So many things were revealed in this book and I just can't get over everything that went down. MADNESS.
February 8, 2020
5 stars
You can find the full review and more about this book on my blog!
Clockwork Angel Review!
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(This may contain spoilers)
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The story
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The characters
Tessa
Will
James
Magnus Bane
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*Pictures from the review are not mine, I took them mostly from Google images or Tumblr*
You can find the full review and more about this book on my blog!
Clockwork Angel Review!
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“We live and breathe words. .... It was books that made me feel that perhaps I was not completely alone. They could be honest with me, and I with them. Reading your words, what you wrote, how you were lonely sometimes and afraid, but always brave; the way you saw the world, its colors and textures and sounds, I felt--I felt the way you thought, hoped, felt, dreamt. I felt I was dreaming and thinking and feeling with you. I dreamed what you dreamed, wanted what you wanted--and then I realized that truly I just wanted you.”
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If you know me and my reviews , you would know that I am not a fan of sequels,especially second books of the series but this one was entirely awesome.I have been caught up with series for weeks now and I can't think of anything else.The way it is written is so beautiful and I do dig the appearance and the style of talking of the time this book,actually the whole series is set in.Maybe as a fan of books,as a reader I do enjoy books in which dialogues are filled with quotes of classics.Quoting the brilliant authors is one of the smartest way of creating conversations and I must give the credit for this to the author.She handled this perfectly,staying in reality and not turning it into something artificial as some popular books out there had done it.
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“It was books that made me feel that perhaps I was not completely alone. They could be honest with me, and I with them.”
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The way author describes the situation is terrific,the way the characters show their emotions,their affections,eagerness,sympathy fits greatly with their culture at the certain time.Also you can sense skepticism on their thoughts,actions affected by feelings,inexperience,and age.You get to read here about great heroic characters,fearless and strong,but it's something about them and the things they repeatedly do that makes them real and believable.It makes them people.
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“They say time heals all wounds, but that presumes the source of the grief is finite”
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I must say I enjoyed this one more than the first one.Not that it was better than the first one in the plot or the writing,or anything in general but if you may know me,you would know my public dislikeness for vampires as creatures,and this one fortunately doesn't contain blood drinkers.So I am pleased.
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“If no one cares for you at all, do you even really exist?”
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Even that there is not a lot of action or much happening in this book,it never got boring.The plot was beautifully organised and the situations were always thrilling filled with excitement.There are some secrets revealed,but still the plot is quite complicated stored with enigmatic words and ideas and persons in shades.
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“We live and breathe words.”
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(This may contain spoilers)
I was quite impressed with the Will's curse,and the revelation of it.And it surely change my opinion for this character.
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“You’re seventeen,” Magnus said. “You can’t have wasted a life you’ve barely lived.”
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I can't part this book.As the first book,this one was also a perfection in every way.I can't say I didn't enjoy some parts more than others but the difference is minor so I will not mention them because I don't want to spoil.
The story
This book follows the story of the first one.After the death of the vampire and the unknown location of the Magister ,the shadowhunters are caught up in a lot of problems.Charlotte is doing everything to save the Institute,to stay at the head of it,Tessa is still clearing things in her head,trying to find more about herself and who she is,her origin,her parents.Her heart starts growing more feeling for Jem,because of this kindness and everything but in the other hand she can't stop feeling affection for Will and his dark,dark past.
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“Lies and secrets, Tessa, they are like a cancer in the soul. They eat away what is good and leave only destruction behind.”
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The characters
Tessa
Well I still have the same opinion for her.All the best.And I don't know why but I never have imagined someone more beautiful than her in my mind.And she has a sense of humor.Like that's something easy to find,beautiful and funny.
Will
Well as I said my opinion for Will has changed.Not that I have disliked this characters before but after knowing him better,I do feel pity for him.I still don't know why he hasn't tried to find the demon before,I mean for five years he could have find it and know better and he would not be late,and who has read this book knows what I mean.
James
I also have the same opinion about this characters as before.But I do have a feeling that he knows what Tessa truly feels.I guess I have to find out in the third one.
Magnus Bane
I am mention this character because I can't really understand him..He has done a lot of generous things for others,but I can't really know what he likes or desires.It confused me a lot and maybe it's just me, but I think he has some problems and I find him very creepy.
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“Oh, leave it,” said Jem, kicking Will, not without affection, lightly on the ankle.
“She’s annexed my plan!”
“Will,” Tessa said firmly. “Do you care more about the plan being enacted or about getting credit for it?”
Will pointed a finger at her.
“That,” he said. “The second one.”
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I highly recommend this book to every book reader out there.It's a phenomenal series.It contains everything you want to see in a book.So pick the first one up and then this one:)
*Pictures from the review are not mine, I took them mostly from Google images or Tumblr*
August 13, 2021
Jem Carstairs is one of my new favorite characters and I just want to hug him, okay?
This book rises far above Clockwork Angel, which was a true dumpster fire and basically a carbon copy of City of Bones. But Clockwork Prince took those same characters, developed them deeply, and added different romantic/angsty subplots that elevated it to a level higher than Clockwork Angel ever was.
Tessa Gray is safe in the Institute--or so she thinks. Mortmain is still on the loose, his clockwork creations wreaking havoc in London. Meanwhile, the Clave is trying to replace Charlotte with Benedict Lightwood, a cunning man who thinks women are incapable of holding leadership positions. They strike a deal--if Charlotte can apprehend Mortmain, she will be able to keep her job. But time is running out, and the mystery just gets more twisted.
There wasn't much plot in this book. In fact, there was hardly any plot at all. Mortmain was barely present. The clockwork creatures only showed up once. There wasn't much tension related to the plot, because this book was basically filler. There was no progression in the plot. There was just one betrayal at the end that this whole book was building up to.
However, plot was never high on my list of things I look for in books. I honestly don't care if the book has a plot or not if I love the characters. And I did love the characters in this book. Well, I loved one of them and tolerated the rest of them, but my love for that one character trumped my mild dislike of the others.
That character is Jem Carstairs.
I love him so much. He's one of my favorite characters of all time. He's a sweet, genuine, precious cinnamon roll and I must protecc.
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I want to give Jem a giant hug. He is a kind, sensitive, insightful character who cares so deeply for everyone around him. Everyone thinks he's fragile because he's sick, but he goes through so much without complaining. He tolerates Will's carelessness with his feelings. He tolerates everyone treating him like a porcelain doll. And he does so with grace and love. He never snaps at anyone for no reason. He is calm and clear-headed, unlike Will.
Instead of lashing out at others because of his inevitable fate, he treats them with kindness and care and gentle love. I have so, so much admiration for his character and Jem as a person. I just want him to live happily ever after with his violin and his cat.
Everyone takes him for granted until he's not there. Everyone gives him very little of the true care and attention he deserves beyond "have you taken your drugs." He is not seen. They just accept that he's going to be sweet and precious and they don't appreciate him for it. And it makes me triggered. My poor cinnamon roll deserves the world and they do not see it.
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LOOK AT HIM.
LOOK AT HIM.
ISN'T HE THE MOST PRECIOUS THING YOU'VE EVER SEEN.
My heart is bursting.
I am not going to tell you anything about my opinions on Jessa vs. Wessa because I don't have a preference. Will and Tessa were made for each other, and Jem and Tessa don't have that kind of chemistry, but I need Jem to be happy. I don't particularly ship either of them.
Tessa Gray is definitely better in this book than she was in the previous one. She's calmed down a bit and isn't as hypocritical as she was before. She's kind to Jem, and that means I like her.
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In general, she's very caring and kind and considerate, and I appreciate that. She's in a love triangle, which automatically makes me a little annoyed, but I really didn't care about that as much as I did in the first book. I... might have even liked it, actually, once I got over my initial annoyance. I love angst.
As always, I don't like Will Herondale. Only now I use the words "don't like" and not "hate," because I guess there was a reason why he was so cold and rude and moody? Although I still dislike him because tortured doesn't look good on him. Will runs away when they need him most. He's kind of a jerk. He's disrespectful to everyone, doesn't think about Jem before he acts, and he's so unbearably angsty and in a bad way. There was a reason for his anger issues, but quite honestly, I don't care. I don't care about whatever bad stuff happened to him in the past.
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And then there's this quote from him that I wanted to chuck out the window:
Will, honey, you basically ignored Tessa for most of the first book. The gaslighting in this scene is real.
There was a scene where Will brought Tessa tea and she was so shocked that he was being nice to her that she drank all of it, even though she didn't like it.
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The villains were the worst part of this book. Mortmain did nothing, and Nate was a terrible antagonist. He's such a 2D villain. What are his motives? Why is he so heartless? No one knows. It felt cheap as a result.
As always, Cassie's writing style is entirely addictive and time passed so quickly while I was reading. I genuinely enjoyed myself reading this, and that's more than I can say for most books.
🚨🚨This next section has spoilers, but it's basically just me fangirling over yet another Jem scene🚨🚨
The Jessa kiss scene made me die, but in a good way. There was one moment that really destroyed me.
My heart did a really weird fluttery thing and I may or may not have whisper-screamed. (This is the moment when I became a Tessa fan, by the way.)
THIS IS WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT.
THEY LOVE EACH OTHER EVEN THOUGH JEM DOESN'T FIT THE TYPICAL EUROCENTRIC BEAUTY STANDARDS.
*crying*
🚨🚨Spoilers have ended🚨🚨
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4 stars, the Jem fanclub is my new home
Clockwork Angel review
This book rises far above Clockwork Angel, which was a true dumpster fire and basically a carbon copy of City of Bones. But Clockwork Prince took those same characters, developed them deeply, and added different romantic/angsty subplots that elevated it to a level higher than Clockwork Angel ever was.
Tessa Gray is safe in the Institute--or so she thinks. Mortmain is still on the loose, his clockwork creations wreaking havoc in London. Meanwhile, the Clave is trying to replace Charlotte with Benedict Lightwood, a cunning man who thinks women are incapable of holding leadership positions. They strike a deal--if Charlotte can apprehend Mortmain, she will be able to keep her job. But time is running out, and the mystery just gets more twisted.
There wasn't much plot in this book. In fact, there was hardly any plot at all. Mortmain was barely present. The clockwork creatures only showed up once. There wasn't much tension related to the plot, because this book was basically filler. There was no progression in the plot. There was just one betrayal at the end that this whole book was building up to.
However, plot was never high on my list of things I look for in books. I honestly don't care if the book has a plot or not if I love the characters. And I did love the characters in this book. Well, I loved one of them and tolerated the rest of them, but my love for that one character trumped my mild dislike of the others.
That character is Jem Carstairs.
I love him so much. He's one of my favorite characters of all time. He's a sweet, genuine, precious cinnamon roll and I must protecc.
credit
credit
I want to give Jem a giant hug. He is a kind, sensitive, insightful character who cares so deeply for everyone around him. Everyone thinks he's fragile because he's sick, but he goes through so much without complaining. He tolerates Will's carelessness with his feelings. He tolerates everyone treating him like a porcelain doll. And he does so with grace and love. He never snaps at anyone for no reason. He is calm and clear-headed, unlike Will.
Instead of lashing out at others because of his inevitable fate, he treats them with kindness and care and gentle love. I have so, so much admiration for his character and Jem as a person. I just want him to live happily ever after with his violin and his cat.
Everyone takes him for granted until he's not there. Everyone gives him very little of the true care and attention he deserves beyond "have you taken your drugs." He is not seen. They just accept that he's going to be sweet and precious and they don't appreciate him for it. And it makes me triggered. My poor cinnamon roll deserves the world and they do not see it.
credit
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credit
LOOK AT HIM.
LOOK AT HIM.
ISN'T HE THE MOST PRECIOUS THING YOU'VE EVER SEEN.
My heart is bursting.
I am not going to tell you anything about my opinions on Jessa vs. Wessa because I don't have a preference. Will and Tessa were made for each other, and Jem and Tessa don't have that kind of chemistry, but I need Jem to be happy. I don't particularly ship either of them.
Tessa Gray is definitely better in this book than she was in the previous one. She's calmed down a bit and isn't as hypocritical as she was before. She's kind to Jem, and that means I like her.
credit
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In general, she's very caring and kind and considerate, and I appreciate that. She's in a love triangle, which automatically makes me a little annoyed, but I really didn't care about that as much as I did in the first book. I... might have even liked it, actually, once I got over my initial annoyance. I love angst.
As always, I don't like Will Herondale. Only now I use the words "don't like" and not "hate," because I guess there was a reason why he was so cold and rude and moody? Although I still dislike him because tortured doesn't look good on him. Will runs away when they need him most. He's kind of a jerk. He's disrespectful to everyone, doesn't think about Jem before he acts, and he's so unbearably angsty and in a bad way. There was a reason for his anger issues, but quite honestly, I don't care. I don't care about whatever bad stuff happened to him in the past.
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And then there's this quote from him that I wanted to chuck out the window:
You see it, don't you, James? Without Tessa there is nothing for me--no joy, no light, no life. If you loved me, you would let me have her. You can't love her as I do. No one could. If you are truly my brother, you would do this for me.
Will, honey, you basically ignored Tessa for most of the first book. The gaslighting in this scene is real.
There was a scene where Will brought Tessa tea and she was so shocked that he was being nice to her that she drank all of it, even though she didn't like it.
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The villains were the worst part of this book. Mortmain did nothing, and Nate was a terrible antagonist. He's such a 2D villain. What are his motives? Why is he so heartless? No one knows. It felt cheap as a result.
As always, Cassie's writing style is entirely addictive and time passed so quickly while I was reading. I genuinely enjoyed myself reading this, and that's more than I can say for most books.
🚨🚨This next section has spoilers, but it's basically just me fangirling over yet another Jem scene🚨🚨
The Jessa kiss scene made me die, but in a good way. There was one moment that really destroyed me.
"I know," [Jem] said, looking down at himself self-consciously. "I am not--I mean, I look--"
"Beautiful," [Tessa] said, and she meant it. "You are beautiful, James Carstairs."
My heart did a really weird fluttery thing and I may or may not have whisper-screamed. (This is the moment when I became a Tessa fan, by the way.)
THIS IS WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT.
THEY LOVE EACH OTHER EVEN THOUGH JEM DOESN'T FIT THE TYPICAL EUROCENTRIC BEAUTY STANDARDS.
*crying*
🚨🚨Spoilers have ended🚨🚨
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4 stars, the Jem fanclub is my new home
Clockwork Angel review
November 27, 2011
Have you ever pictured yourself wandering among the tombs at Westminster Abbey, marveling at the sheer wonder of being among the greatest literary figures in history? Sixteen-year-old Tessa Gray is taken to Poets' Corner by someone who understands exactly what such an experience will mean to her, and this lovely little moment in the sequel to Clockwork Angel perfectly encapsulates everything I love about the Infernal Devices series. Tessa is a shapeshifting Shadowhunter who is becoming accustomed to her powers, but in the middle of all the magic and mystery in Victorian England, the relationships between Tessa, the enigmatic Will, and the thoughtful, sensitive Jem remain the very heart of the story.
Following a rather, ahem, provocative prologue, the story really begins as the London Institute of Shadowhunters is given two weeks to find the evil Magister, who is still determined to gain control of Tessa’s powers and bring down the Enclave. Tessa and the Shadowhunters must battle dreadful clockwork creatures, demons, and even treachery within their own ranks before everything around them is forever altered. Readers who agonized over the last book will be happy to know that we see the beginnings of the ties between the Lightwood and Herondale families, find out what the initials "JTS" mean, and spend more time getting to know all the characters, including Magnus, Jessamine, Henry, Charlotte, and Sophie.
Here are the other important elements that I loved from this story:
Tessa, Will, and Jem
Tessa becomes more sure of her unique position and powers, and her relationships with both the boys in her life deepen in a life-changing way. Jem unexpectedly reveals an incredibly alluring side to him that we’ve never seen before, and we finally discover the devastating secret in handsome Will’s tragic past. This is one of the most well-written love triangles I’ve ever read, with a strong girl torn between two very attractive and honorable boys; there are good reasons for Tessa to love them both, but also excellent reasons for her to give her heart to neither. It is nothing short of torture to feel Tessa’s deep pull towards Jem and Will, both of whom have swooningly romantic and wildly sensual moments with our heroine. Believe me, the infamous Dirty Sexy Balcony Scene more than lives up to its promise, and I clutched my pearls more than once while reading this book!
What Tessa never forgets, however, is that as confused as she is about her feelings for Jem and Will, there is also a lifelong friendship between them that she must honor. Jem’s illness, Will’s love for and dependence upon him, and her own need for self-respect all contribute to an intensely difficult situation, and one that made me hurt for everyone involved.
Victorian Details
The Victorian details in this novel make me quite ill with pleasure. That's right, ill with pleasure. I'm not even speaking solely of catnip such as the clothes and carriages and the like, but of a finer, deeper authenticity that has to do with a way of truly immersive thinking, rather than just trifling details. It seems to be so difficult for many YA historical fiction authors to refrain from projecting anachronistic modern attitudes onto period characters, but Tessa Gray stands out as a true Victorian heroine. She shows courage and spirit, but it's within the appropriate behaviors and thinking patterns for a girl living in the 19th century; if she breaks tradition, she thinks about it (and we know it's unusual) before she does so.
Even while she's being trained for self-defense by other Shadowhunters, Tessa spends a great deal of her time struggling to reconcile her magical powers and responsibilities with her upbringing and social decorum. The role of women in oppressive circumstances has always interested me, and Tessa’s internal dialogue and conduct (along with Sophie’s) are notably in keeping with all the other spot-on period details, which are meticulously researched and beautifully woven into the story. Before she began writing this series, the author rather famously moved to England for six months and read nothing but books written or set in the Victorian era, and even walked all the streets that her characters might have traveled. There is a certain mood and style that is decidedly steeped in the foundations of this research, and the dexterous language and witty dialogue feel pretty nearly perfect and true to the time—with allowances for fantasy and magic, of course. Tessa transcends the thinking of the time and uses clever magic and thinking to outwit her adversaries at every turn.
A Love of Literature
Another thing I also adore about this series is how much appreciation all the characters have for literature. I still remember the awe I felt the first time I went to Westminster Abbey, and it struck a chord to hear Tessa say, “I can’t explain it. It’s like being among friends, being among these names.” Upon traveling to the countryside for the first time, she also says, "I feel as though I have seen it before. In books. I keep imagining I’ll see Thornfield Hall rising up beyond the trees, or Wuthering Heights perched on a stony crag.“ It is nearly impossible for any lover of books, particularly those with an unruly bit of romance in her soul, to fail to thrill when reading words like this. Tessa is a kindred spirit for me, and I think she would be for many other thinking, dreaming readers as well.
If you were dying for this second installment in the Infernal Devices series, rest assured that it has been more than worth the wait. It's full of great action scenes, a clever use of magic, and the hilarious dialogue that we've come to expect from these characters. It is, however, also an intensely emotional read for those invested in the characters, so be prepared with tissues—I cried several times near the heartbreaking end and it's going to be so hard to wait another whole year for Clockwork Princess. Was the book satisfying? Yes. Was it agonizing? A thousand times, yes. But it was painful in the most exquisite and emotionally truthful of ways.
This review also appears in The Midnight Garden. An advance copy was provided by the publisher.
Following a rather, ahem, provocative prologue, the story really begins as the London Institute of Shadowhunters is given two weeks to find the evil Magister, who is still determined to gain control of Tessa’s powers and bring down the Enclave. Tessa and the Shadowhunters must battle dreadful clockwork creatures, demons, and even treachery within their own ranks before everything around them is forever altered. Readers who agonized over the last book will be happy to know that we see the beginnings of the ties between the Lightwood and Herondale families, find out what the initials "JTS" mean, and spend more time getting to know all the characters, including Magnus, Jessamine, Henry, Charlotte, and Sophie.
Here are the other important elements that I loved from this story:
Tessa, Will, and Jem
Tessa becomes more sure of her unique position and powers, and her relationships with both the boys in her life deepen in a life-changing way. Jem unexpectedly reveals an incredibly alluring side to him that we’ve never seen before, and we finally discover the devastating secret in handsome Will’s tragic past. This is one of the most well-written love triangles I’ve ever read, with a strong girl torn between two very attractive and honorable boys; there are good reasons for Tessa to love them both, but also excellent reasons for her to give her heart to neither. It is nothing short of torture to feel Tessa’s deep pull towards Jem and Will, both of whom have swooningly romantic and wildly sensual moments with our heroine. Believe me, the infamous Dirty Sexy Balcony Scene more than lives up to its promise, and I clutched my pearls more than once while reading this book!
What Tessa never forgets, however, is that as confused as she is about her feelings for Jem and Will, there is also a lifelong friendship between them that she must honor. Jem’s illness, Will’s love for and dependence upon him, and her own need for self-respect all contribute to an intensely difficult situation, and one that made me hurt for everyone involved.
Victorian Details
The Victorian details in this novel make me quite ill with pleasure. That's right, ill with pleasure. I'm not even speaking solely of catnip such as the clothes and carriages and the like, but of a finer, deeper authenticity that has to do with a way of truly immersive thinking, rather than just trifling details. It seems to be so difficult for many YA historical fiction authors to refrain from projecting anachronistic modern attitudes onto period characters, but Tessa Gray stands out as a true Victorian heroine. She shows courage and spirit, but it's within the appropriate behaviors and thinking patterns for a girl living in the 19th century; if she breaks tradition, she thinks about it (and we know it's unusual) before she does so.
Even while she's being trained for self-defense by other Shadowhunters, Tessa spends a great deal of her time struggling to reconcile her magical powers and responsibilities with her upbringing and social decorum. The role of women in oppressive circumstances has always interested me, and Tessa’s internal dialogue and conduct (along with Sophie’s) are notably in keeping with all the other spot-on period details, which are meticulously researched and beautifully woven into the story. Before she began writing this series, the author rather famously moved to England for six months and read nothing but books written or set in the Victorian era, and even walked all the streets that her characters might have traveled. There is a certain mood and style that is decidedly steeped in the foundations of this research, and the dexterous language and witty dialogue feel pretty nearly perfect and true to the time—with allowances for fantasy and magic, of course. Tessa transcends the thinking of the time and uses clever magic and thinking to outwit her adversaries at every turn.
A Love of Literature
Another thing I also adore about this series is how much appreciation all the characters have for literature. I still remember the awe I felt the first time I went to Westminster Abbey, and it struck a chord to hear Tessa say, “I can’t explain it. It’s like being among friends, being among these names.” Upon traveling to the countryside for the first time, she also says, "I feel as though I have seen it before. In books. I keep imagining I’ll see Thornfield Hall rising up beyond the trees, or Wuthering Heights perched on a stony crag.“ It is nearly impossible for any lover of books, particularly those with an unruly bit of romance in her soul, to fail to thrill when reading words like this. Tessa is a kindred spirit for me, and I think she would be for many other thinking, dreaming readers as well.
If you were dying for this second installment in the Infernal Devices series, rest assured that it has been more than worth the wait. It's full of great action scenes, a clever use of magic, and the hilarious dialogue that we've come to expect from these characters. It is, however, also an intensely emotional read for those invested in the characters, so be prepared with tissues—I cried several times near the heartbreaking end and it's going to be so hard to wait another whole year for Clockwork Princess. Was the book satisfying? Yes. Was it agonizing? A thousand times, yes. But it was painful in the most exquisite and emotionally truthful of ways.
This review also appears in The Midnight Garden. An advance copy was provided by the publisher.
February 9, 2023
I think by now, we all know how much I love and enjoy anything Shadowhunter related, but I can honestly say I don't think I will never not give The Infernal Devices series anything less than 5 stars!
It is just so beautiful. These books make me feel things only one or two other books have made me feel. My heart actually hurts for Will and Tessa.
"It was books that made me feel that perhaps I was not completely alone. They could be honest with me, and I with them. Reading your words, what you wrote, how you were lonely sometimes and afraid, but always brave."
What made it so special for me the second time round was how much I had truely forgotten. It was like reading it for the first time. When you read something for the first time your in awe, and that's honestly how I felt.
I loved how it brought in more characters, and you could see alliances emerging. It had so much humour in the book that honestly just brightened up my day.
Seriously though... I don't know how many times my heart was just so close to breaking. Will. Will and Tessa. Will and Jem. Tessa. Jem. Tessa and Jem. Charlotte and Henry. Even Jessie... TOO MANY EMOTIONS WERE FELT!
For me Tessa seemed to be a totally different character in this book, in the sense that she wasn't shocked by things anymore, I enjoyed her a lot more and could sense that she was more settled. I liked how she was quite independent and was able to control things easier. My heart broke for her upon the confession. SO CLOSE!
Will I can't. I just. I don't even know how to write any of this. I have never felt so strongly for a character in the many books I have read. There is something about him. I know that he appears to be "damaged" but there is so much to him as a character. In this book you find out why he is like he is, and honestly it hurt. However I thoroughly enjoyed Will's back story, and once all was revealed I liked how open he became.
Onto the final person in the trio Jem. He is like I previously mentioned so sweet and so lovely. I feel quite sad that in my previous reads I was all for Will (I still am, but now I see the appeal of Jem) anyway... his character developed so much more in this book I think, he was strong, stood up for what he believed in and was once again the loving, caring Jem Carstairs we all know. His love for Tessa is so beautiful and so raw it honestly melted me!
Sophie and Gideon just made me so happy in this book! I enjoyed the training sessions between the two, how Gideon became his own person entirely in this book and actually stands up for what is right. Sophie also does the same, even if it meant her telling everything she is honourable and does what is right. Her friendship with Tessa is adorable and how she kind of puts everyone in there place. Yesssss!
I was so confused and had conflicting views about Jessie in this book. One moment I loathed her, the next I felt sympathy towards her. She's not particularly a pleasant character, but that's kind of why she's there. I enjoy the fact she doesn't seem to have a filter, however I just don't like how much she hurts the ones that love her. I'm looking forward to finding out what becomes of her in the next book. I remember something but not other bits...
Finally the top dogs... the heads of the institute Charlotte and Henry. First of all, how ADORABLE are they together?! I just can't. I think in this book, you begin to understand how much they care and love one another. The discussion of marriage had me laughing, but at the same time it made me kind of sad. However it was happy overall. I was so pleased that something of Henrys finally worked! They are both just lovely characters, and the added bonus is Henrys ginger hair!
"When two souls are as one, they stay together on the Wheel. I was born in this world to love you, and I will love you in the next life, and the one after that."
What I liked?
- I liked how in the final chapters plans FINALLY came together, it hurt to see that whatever Charlotte tried to do, always seemed to fail. I just want her to be happy.
- The realisation that Charlotte and Henry both love each other equally and that everything they had thought wasn't quite true.
- Demon Pox! I have an image of Will dancing in my head it was hilarious!
- The blossoming relationship of many characters.
- I may have a soft spot for Gideon...
- OH MY GOD! Magnus trying to wind up Camille with Will was so funny! I burst out laughing at work and everyone kind of looked at me as if I were slightly mad.
- Magnus was in this book waaaaaaay more! I'm a fan of Magnus, so anything related to him always make me happy!
- Will's pure happiness and that he seemed to be giddy!
- Sophie once again just makes me laugh so much!
- My curiosity, as I said I'd forgotten a lot of this book, I'd completely forgot everything related to Jessie, soooooo that was good!
What I didn't like?
- Why do you continue to break my heart?
- I would of liked to of seen Mortmain maybe a little more?
Final thought I'm kind of dreading reading the last book because then I know it's over, and I know what's coming... MY HEART CAN'T TAKE IT!
--------
29.07.18
When two people are at one in their inmost hearts, they shatter even the strength of iron or bronze."
Because I always have extra thoughts I want to add :) :) :)
- Jem taking Tessa to poets corner because he knew she'd enjoy it
- Will thinking he will be re-born as a slug so someone can salt him :')
- BRIDGET! Taking Gideon down, her morbid songs ahhhh
-The complete innocence between Tessa and Jem
- The interactions between the three in general
- LEEDS MY HOMETOWN IS MENTIONED!
- All of the things Magnus does; caring for Will, knowing who people really are, winding Camille up
- The slap... it was great also tying people up, hitting mirrors over heads... courting!
- So much foreshadowing
- Finally one of my favourite things about this series is how much they all care and love one another. The protectiveness they all have towards one another honestly melts my heart, it's so raw and so special I just honestly adore it.
23.07.2020
Honestly so many things happen in this:
- Gideon finally arrives in the book, definitely the unsung hero of this book.
- Demon Pox
- All of the Angsts
- Dropping truthbombs about parents
- Magnus and Wills friendship really starts to peak
- Talk 0f Worms
- The party and balcony forever 10/10 and I adore it.
- Break my heart FOREVER
----------
12.08.2022
OOOOOOOFT, I think I always forget how much I love Clockwork Prince, there's just something so special about the second instalment with so many great key moments! This one really focuses on the building of relationships and back stories for the characters, and I know I'm biased because this is my all time favourite series but you can't not love them all. I think this has such a good balance of feels, story, romance and intrigue for what's to come along with ripping my heart out on multiple occasions.
Team Jem, Team Will?
I've always always said I'm Will, and I always will be, but Jem has the softest sweetest soul and the more I re-read it becomes so apparent WHY Tessa has the feels for both of them.
For ever my fave Trio!
---------
All Cassandra Clare Reviews:
The Infernal Devices
Clockwork Angel - 5 Stars
Clockwork Prince - 5 Stars
Clockwork Princess - 5 Stars
The Infernal Devices (Manga) Reviews:
Clockwork Angel - 5 Stars
Clockwork Prince - 5 Stars
Clockwork Princess - 5 Stars
The Last Hours
Chain of Gold - 4 Stars
Chain of Iron - 5 Stars
Chain of Thorns - 4 Stars
The Mortal Instruments
City of Bones - 5 Stars
City of Ashes - 4 Stars
City of Glass - 4 Stars
City of Fallen Angels - 2 Stars
City of Lost Souls - 3 Stars
City of Heavenly Fire - 4 Stars
The Eldest Curses
The Red Scrolls of Magic - 3 Stars
The Dark Artifices
Lady Midnight - 5 Stars
Lord of Shadows - 5 Stars
Queen of Air and Darkness - 5 Stars
It is just so beautiful. These books make me feel things only one or two other books have made me feel. My heart actually hurts for Will and Tessa.
"It was books that made me feel that perhaps I was not completely alone. They could be honest with me, and I with them. Reading your words, what you wrote, how you were lonely sometimes and afraid, but always brave."
What made it so special for me the second time round was how much I had truely forgotten. It was like reading it for the first time. When you read something for the first time your in awe, and that's honestly how I felt.
I loved how it brought in more characters, and you could see alliances emerging. It had so much humour in the book that honestly just brightened up my day.
Seriously though... I don't know how many times my heart was just so close to breaking. Will. Will and Tessa. Will and Jem. Tessa. Jem. Tessa and Jem. Charlotte and Henry. Even Jessie... TOO MANY EMOTIONS WERE FELT!
For me Tessa seemed to be a totally different character in this book, in the sense that she wasn't shocked by things anymore, I enjoyed her a lot more and could sense that she was more settled. I liked how she was quite independent and was able to control things easier. My heart broke for her upon the confession. SO CLOSE!
Will I can't. I just. I don't even know how to write any of this. I have never felt so strongly for a character in the many books I have read. There is something about him. I know that he appears to be "damaged" but there is so much to him as a character. In this book you find out why he is like he is, and honestly it hurt. However I thoroughly enjoyed Will's back story, and once all was revealed I liked how open he became.
Onto the final person in the trio Jem. He is like I previously mentioned so sweet and so lovely. I feel quite sad that in my previous reads I was all for Will (I still am, but now I see the appeal of Jem) anyway... his character developed so much more in this book I think, he was strong, stood up for what he believed in and was once again the loving, caring Jem Carstairs we all know. His love for Tessa is so beautiful and so raw it honestly melted me!
Sophie and Gideon just made me so happy in this book! I enjoyed the training sessions between the two, how Gideon became his own person entirely in this book and actually stands up for what is right. Sophie also does the same, even if it meant her telling everything she is honourable and does what is right. Her friendship with Tessa is adorable and how she kind of puts everyone in there place. Yesssss!
I was so confused and had conflicting views about Jessie in this book. One moment I loathed her, the next I felt sympathy towards her. She's not particularly a pleasant character, but that's kind of why she's there. I enjoy the fact she doesn't seem to have a filter, however I just don't like how much she hurts the ones that love her. I'm looking forward to finding out what becomes of her in the next book. I remember something but not other bits...
Finally the top dogs... the heads of the institute Charlotte and Henry. First of all, how ADORABLE are they together?! I just can't. I think in this book, you begin to understand how much they care and love one another. The discussion of marriage had me laughing, but at the same time it made me kind of sad. However it was happy overall. I was so pleased that something of Henrys finally worked! They are both just lovely characters, and the added bonus is Henrys ginger hair!
"When two souls are as one, they stay together on the Wheel. I was born in this world to love you, and I will love you in the next life, and the one after that."
What I liked?
- I liked how in the final chapters plans FINALLY came together, it hurt to see that whatever Charlotte tried to do, always seemed to fail. I just want her to be happy.
- The realisation that Charlotte and Henry both love each other equally and that everything they had thought wasn't quite true.
- Demon Pox! I have an image of Will dancing in my head it was hilarious!
- The blossoming relationship of many characters.
- I may have a soft spot for Gideon...
- OH MY GOD! Magnus trying to wind up Camille with Will was so funny! I burst out laughing at work and everyone kind of looked at me as if I were slightly mad.
- Magnus was in this book waaaaaaay more! I'm a fan of Magnus, so anything related to him always make me happy!
- Will's pure happiness and that he seemed to be giddy!
- Sophie once again just makes me laugh so much!
- My curiosity, as I said I'd forgotten a lot of this book, I'd completely forgot everything related to Jessie, soooooo that was good!
What I didn't like?
- Why do you continue to break my heart?
- I would of liked to of seen Mortmain maybe a little more?
Final thought I'm kind of dreading reading the last book because then I know it's over, and I know what's coming... MY HEART CAN'T TAKE IT!
--------
29.07.18
When two people are at one in their inmost hearts, they shatter even the strength of iron or bronze."
Because I always have extra thoughts I want to add :) :) :)
- Jem taking Tessa to poets corner because he knew she'd enjoy it
- Will thinking he will be re-born as a slug so someone can salt him :')
- BRIDGET! Taking Gideon down, her morbid songs ahhhh
-The complete innocence between Tessa and Jem
- The interactions between the three in general
- LEEDS MY HOMETOWN IS MENTIONED!
- All of the things Magnus does; caring for Will, knowing who people really are, winding Camille up
- The slap... it was great also tying people up, hitting mirrors over heads... courting!
- So much foreshadowing
- Finally one of my favourite things about this series is how much they all care and love one another. The protectiveness they all have towards one another honestly melts my heart, it's so raw and so special I just honestly adore it.
23.07.2020
Honestly so many things happen in this:
- Gideon finally arrives in the book, definitely the unsung hero of this book.
- Demon Pox
- All of the Angsts
- Dropping truthbombs about parents
- Magnus and Wills friendship really starts to peak
- Talk 0f Worms
- The party and balcony forever 10/10 and I adore it.
- Break my heart FOREVER
----------
12.08.2022
OOOOOOOFT, I think I always forget how much I love Clockwork Prince, there's just something so special about the second instalment with so many great key moments! This one really focuses on the building of relationships and back stories for the characters, and I know I'm biased because this is my all time favourite series but you can't not love them all. I think this has such a good balance of feels, story, romance and intrigue for what's to come along with ripping my heart out on multiple occasions.
Team Jem, Team Will?
I've always always said I'm Will, and I always will be, but Jem has the softest sweetest soul and the more I re-read it becomes so apparent WHY Tessa has the feels for both of them.
For ever my fave Trio!
---------
All Cassandra Clare Reviews:
The Infernal Devices
Clockwork Angel - 5 Stars
Clockwork Prince - 5 Stars
Clockwork Princess - 5 Stars
The Infernal Devices (Manga) Reviews:
Clockwork Angel - 5 Stars
Clockwork Prince - 5 Stars
Clockwork Princess - 5 Stars
The Last Hours
Chain of Gold - 4 Stars
Chain of Iron - 5 Stars
Chain of Thorns - 4 Stars
The Mortal Instruments
City of Bones - 5 Stars
City of Ashes - 4 Stars
City of Glass - 4 Stars
City of Fallen Angels - 2 Stars
City of Lost Souls - 3 Stars
City of Heavenly Fire - 4 Stars
The Eldest Curses
The Red Scrolls of Magic - 3 Stars
The Dark Artifices
Lady Midnight - 5 Stars
Lord of Shadows - 5 Stars
Queen of Air and Darkness - 5 Stars
July 31, 2019
actual footage of me thinking about the fact that I Cried Reading This Stupid Book:
I really could just leave my prereview here as a review, so like, here's the review: *sips from an open bottle of vodka* any ending that doesn't involve all three of them dating is not valid. it's just not
Okay, just to get the honesty out of the way: these get moments of being Too Trashy. You can only fit in around 50 literary allusions before it starts being kind of annoying. [WE GET THE TALE OF TWO CITIES THING FOR THE LOVE OF GOD]. Also, it totally has that overdramatic fanfiction quality, but it kind of… works.
Yeah, I’m aware that I liked this book more than it might have deserved, and I’m aware that people make fun of this series for The Love TriangleTM. Cool. So I just came here to say: all of them are in love and it should end in all of them dating. I am not giving up this opinion. Jem and Will are both in love with Tessa, canonically, and Tessa is in love with both of them, canonically, and let’s just be really fucking honest with ourselves and say that Jem and Will are completely in love. It's 2018 and it's time to admit that, as a society. I am aware that this is not what occurs in this series and it is my firm belief that under different circumstances, they would all be dating, and I do not care who fights me on this.
I guess we stopped pretending this was a review, so here’s the part of the review where I scream about the characters [aka the reason why I would die for these occasionally trashy books]. It will still be spoiler-free.
[she really said this, out loud, she really said this and I would kill for her]
Okay, seriously, I love Tessa. Like, I’m actually pissed off by how much she gets slept on, because she’s such a good protagonist?? She’s a total Gentle Soul who loves her friends but also has the ability to drag everyone within an inch of their lives and uses it. Every time Tessa burns someone I have ten years added to my life, she's an icon and I love her
Oh, Jem?? I love Jem. Jem has never done a thing wrong in his entire life. The only man I trust. He projects being So Confident and So On Top Of It and he’s struggling so much. Help him.
Oh, and I guess we’re talking about Will now, too? Will and Tess are my least favorite couple within The Love TriangleTM, but I still… kind of love Will as a character? So, this book had one of the best backstory reveals in any book I’ve read recently, and I think this particular backstory is quite brilliant in how it explains his personality and some parts of his character in book one that kind of didn’t make sense. I think it probably should have been revealed at the end of book one [these books are drawn out] but it really is That Backstory Reveal that changed me as a person and gave me a whole new attitude towards Brooding Bad Boy Backstory RevealsTM.
Let’s talk about Jem and Will and Tessa as a dynamic. First of all, I love them. Second of all, I would die for them. Third of all, help them. The plot of these books is just “two of them worry about the third person” repeated over and over for six million pages and don’t get me wrong, I think that’s beautiful, but also, help them. And before you ask, yes, I actually genuinely mantain that the three of them should end this series dating, and I’m 85% sure that is exactly how I am supposed to feel. I am also around 72.4% sure that had this not been published in fucking 2011 [a hell time] that is actually how it might have ended.
Anyway.
This book had such a delightful cast of side characters. I love and would die for Henry and Charlotte. That one cute scene between them was... really fucking cute. Like, cliche, but also I was crying? Sophie is such a good character and always has been. I wanted a little bit more out of Jessamine, but I think she’s given a decent amount of nuance [and hey, she got me to sympathize with her and root for her redemption arc even though she’s kind of awful].
Oh, you know that thing I talked about in my review of book one where I was like “they’re finally going to address how the downworlders are treated?” I lied, they didn’t talk about it even though the lead character Literally Is A Downworlder, and no one is more emo about it than I am. talkaboutsocietalinequalityinmytrashliterature.jpg
Oh, also, I thought this book was fucking hilarious. Every single line is the most iconic thing I’ve ever read and I love it.
s/o to this asshole and my ex girlfriend for screaming about this with me, y'all really ruined my life hope it was fun. and also, if one more of you tells me that I'm going to die when I read Clockwork Princess, I will genuinely threaten to never read it
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I really could just leave my prereview here as a review, so like, here's the review: *sips from an open bottle of vodka* any ending that doesn't involve all three of them dating is not valid. it's just not
Okay, just to get the honesty out of the way: these get moments of being Too Trashy. You can only fit in around 50 literary allusions before it starts being kind of annoying. [WE GET THE TALE OF TWO CITIES THING FOR THE LOVE OF GOD]. Also, it totally has that overdramatic fanfiction quality, but it kind of… works.
Yeah, I’m aware that I liked this book more than it might have deserved, and I’m aware that people make fun of this series for The Love TriangleTM. Cool. So I just came here to say: all of them are in love and it should end in all of them dating. I am not giving up this opinion. Jem and Will are both in love with Tessa, canonically, and Tessa is in love with both of them, canonically, and let’s just be really fucking honest with ourselves and say that Jem and Will are completely in love. It's 2018 and it's time to admit that, as a society. I am aware that this is not what occurs in this series and it is my firm belief that under different circumstances, they would all be dating, and I do not care who fights me on this.
I guess we stopped pretending this was a review, so here’s the part of the review where I scream about the characters [aka the reason why I would die for these occasionally trashy books]. It will still be spoiler-free.
“Yes, she doesn't really look like either of us, does she? Perhaps she's a girl who's fallen madly in love with me and persists in following me wherever I go.”
“My talent is shape-shifting, Will, not acting,” said Tessa.
[she really said this, out loud, she really said this and I would kill for her]
Okay, seriously, I love Tessa. Like, I’m actually pissed off by how much she gets slept on, because she’s such a good protagonist?? She’s a total Gentle Soul who loves her friends but also has the ability to drag everyone within an inch of their lives and uses it. Every time Tessa burns someone I have ten years added to my life, she's an icon and I love her
Oh, Jem?? I love Jem. Jem has never done a thing wrong in his entire life. The only man I trust. He projects being So Confident and So On Top Of It and he’s struggling so much. Help him.
Oh, and I guess we’re talking about Will now, too? Will and Tess are my least favorite couple within The Love TriangleTM, but I still… kind of love Will as a character? So, this book had one of the best backstory reveals in any book I’ve read recently, and I think this particular backstory is quite brilliant in how it explains his personality and some parts of his character in book one that kind of didn’t make sense. I think it probably should have been revealed at the end of book one [these books are drawn out] but it really is That Backstory Reveal that changed me as a person and gave me a whole new attitude towards Brooding Bad Boy Backstory RevealsTM.
Let’s talk about Jem and Will and Tessa as a dynamic. First of all, I love them. Second of all, I would die for them. Third of all, help them. The plot of these books is just “two of them worry about the third person” repeated over and over for six million pages and don’t get me wrong, I think that’s beautiful, but also, help them. And before you ask, yes, I actually genuinely mantain that the three of them should end this series dating, and I’m 85% sure that is exactly how I am supposed to feel. I am also around 72.4% sure that had this not been published in fucking 2011 [a hell time] that is actually how it might have ended.
Anyway.
This book had such a delightful cast of side characters. I love and would die for Henry and Charlotte. That one cute scene between them was... really fucking cute. Like, cliche, but also I was crying? Sophie is such a good character and always has been. I wanted a little bit more out of Jessamine, but I think she’s given a decent amount of nuance [and hey, she got me to sympathize with her and root for her redemption arc even though she’s kind of awful].
Oh, you know that thing I talked about in my review of book one where I was like “they’re finally going to address how the downworlders are treated?” I lied, they didn’t talk about it even though the lead character Literally Is A Downworlder, and no one is more emo about it than I am. talkaboutsocietalinequalityinmytrashliterature.jpg
“Ah,” said a voice from the doorway, “having your annual ‘everyone thinks Will is a lunatic’ meeting, are you?
“It’s biannual,” said Jem. “And no, this is not that meeting.”
Oh, also, I thought this book was fucking hilarious. Every single line is the most iconic thing I’ve ever read and I love it.
s/o to this asshole and my ex girlfriend for screaming about this with me, y'all really ruined my life hope it was fun. and also, if one more of you tells me that I'm going to die when I read Clockwork Princess, I will genuinely threaten to never read it
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November 28, 2014
Liked Clockwork Angel better than the Mortal Instruments,
that's why I am eagerly awaiting the next installment in the Infernal Devices=]
December 2011 is too far away!!
Can't we just read it now?
Huh...
It seems people are already choosing sides...
So, in that case, I'll admit that I am...
TEAM WILL!!!=)
hahaha, so predictable of me, but I can't help it!
----------------------------------------------------
WOW. Wow, wow, wow. Amazing... review to come! :)
that's why I am eagerly awaiting the next installment in the Infernal Devices=]
December 2011 is too far away!!
Can't we just read it now?
Huh...
It seems people are already choosing sides...
So, in that case, I'll admit that I am...
TEAM WILL!!!=)
hahaha, so predictable of me, but I can't help it!
----------------------------------------------------
WOW. Wow, wow, wow. Amazing... review to come! :)
January 9, 2012
**Don't click the spoilers if you haven't read the book.**
I think it's time to admit to myself that The Mortal Instruments and Infernal Devices series are just not for me. I suppose it's not a secret I'm not a huge fan of Cassandra Clare's work, but I won't deny that there were some things I did enjoy with each series. However, this was a disappointing read for me. I originally liked the premise of the first book in the Infernal Devices series, but this installment seemed to focus more on the character's relationships rather than the plot. It's the same problem City of Fallen Angels had, except I do think Clockwork Prince was LOADS better than that.
In Clockwork Prince The Shadowhunters in the London Institute find themselves in a serious bind. Due to the startling turn of events in Clockwork Angel, Charlotte is threaten to be removed as head of the institute unless she and the others can discover what the Magister is planning and capture him. The Shadowhunters immediately get to work diving into the Clave archives, searching for clues to the Magister's past. Unfortunately, it is not just his secrets that are exposed as the loyalties of the institute members are also revealed.
That sounds fairly interesting, right? So what's my issue? Why couldn't I love this book? Well, if I put it bluntly: It was boring. The beginning took way to long to pick up and if I had to guess, I'd say nothing exciting happens until around page 250. Um, I don't know about you, but that is way too long to keep me hanging. It took me 15 days to read this book. 15 days. At one point I just had to put it down for a few days and read something else because every time I picked up the book it would put me in this kind of mood:
Sure the Shadowhunters did things, but every time they were about to go on a mission we are given unnecessary descriptions of what Tessa is going to wear or how Sophie did her hair or how silver Jem's eyes looked that day. Who cares? The suspense leading up to the mission died while Tessa was taking her sweet ass time getting dressed. Speaking of Tessa, she is a pathetic heroine. She is good for one thing only: changing her appearance. She's not a fighter and despite her being trained in this book, she was virtually worthless. Yet, they always had to take her along on missions. When they actually used her power she manages to screw it up. They attend a "bad guy's party" (Just go with it. I don't want to spoil it for you.) and Tessa screws up her disguise because she drinks some type of spiked warlock lemonade. Yeah. I don't know about you, but when I'm crashing a bad guy's party, I never drink the punch. So she's walking around as herself and none of the evil dudes seem to notice or care. HUH? But she's an idiot, so I don't expect much from her. However, Will drinks it too. At that point I'm thinking, "You've been a Shadowhunter for how long exactly?" That scene made no sense.
Even though the book was boring, that's not even my biggest issue with it. While I was reading I always felt disconnected to the characters. The only character I did care about was Jem and that's probably because he's the only one who didn't seem like a direct rip-off from the Mortal Instruments series. I felt flashes of these characters in Clockwork Angel, but now I'm fully convinced that
Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice--Nope. I see what you did there.
Will
So when I finally get to the "good part," some things happen that are supposed to shock me, I guess. There is this big revelation made right before the fight scene. WAIT. Didn't you use that revelation is City of Glass, Clare?? Please stop putting you plot twists through the laundry wash cycle. It doesn't make them new again. *sigh*
After the fight scene, there is still a good 75 pages left and I was hoping for more action. But, of course, there is none. Most of it is filled with more relationship drama that surprisingly made me happy. However, it will most likely piss off fans of the series. LOL. There is a cliffhanger at the end of the book, but by that time I was so through with it all, that it didn't move me one bit.
The writing was difficult for me, but I've never really jived well with Clare's style. Death to those bloody commas! My eyes are waving little white surrender flags! O_o Another thing I found strange was that Tessa is supposed to be American (right?), but it seemed like she still sounded English. In other words, all of the characters spoke very similarly. There was only one time when Tessa used an American slang term and it felt odd and out of place. And how many times must the word 'quite' be used? "Oh, you are quite right!" "This is quite uncomfortable." "I don't think you quite understand." I'm pretty sure 'quite' is used every few pages and it's annoying. The characters are trying so hard to sound English. It just didn't work for me.
Will I read Clockwork Princess? I don't know, maybe. The only reason I'm remotely curious is because I want to see what's going to happen to Jem. I like that guy. Yeah, I know. The volcanoes in hell are freezing over because I actually really like one of Clare's characters. Amazing.
Oh, and before I forget:
More reviews and more at Cuddlebuggery Book Blog.
February 19, 2020
1.) City of Bones ★★★
2.) City of Ashes ★★
3.) City of Glass ★★★
1.) Clockwork Angel ★★★
4.) City of Fallen Angels ★
Friends, this is the highest four star rating. Like, I almost want to give this book five stars because I enjoyed the last 25% so damn much. This is easily my favorite Cassie Clare book yet, and I truly had such a wonderful time reading.
This is the second installment in this history prequel series that stars a young girl named Tessa, who has traveled to London from America, who was trying to find her brother in Clockwork Angel! Well, she found him, and this book is dealing with the ramifications of what she found out. Yet, this book is also about Tessa trying to carve out a place for herself in a world that is unfamiliar to her in so many ways, while also trying to learn about her true past and who she wants to be in the future.
Okay, my review is going to touch on a couple key things that happened in this book and things that have happened in previous books, so please use caution reading the rest of this review if you have not read this book and its predecessors! And as always, I’m going to do a little mini character breakdown on my thoughts and feelings on all the main characters in this book.
➽ Tessa Gray - Poor Tessa got so many big puzzle pieces about her life handed to her in this book. And she is truly believing that her father was a demon, which could completely be true and really intrigues me. I mean, I would personally be upset that he wasn’t from fae lineage, but what can you do?
➽ Jem Carstairs - Jem is my favorite character in this series. He's biracial, Chinese and British, living with a terminal illness, and just the sweetest character in all of literature! And I know without question he would be the one that I pick, even if he’s not the one that I’d pick for Tessa. Also, I’ve dated enough rude and brooding boys to last me (and Tessa) a lifetime.
➽ Will Herondale - Even though Jem is on the cover of this book, I feel like this was Will’s book. We learned so much about him and we finally get to see what happened to him five years ago. Honestly, I love Will, and even though I won’t completely excuse the gross things he said at the end of Clockwork Angel, I understand him and appreciate him. (If only I could feel the same about Jace! Lord, help me!)
➽ Charlotte Branwell - So happy for her! I honestly love how determined she is for herself, but also how proud and supportive she is of her found family. I love this house mom, forever.
➽ Henry Branwell - So happy for him! He’s alright, but I like him because Charlotte loves him!
➽ Sophie Collins - Again, Sophie is an MVP for me in this book too. I really loved her in Clockwork Angel, and that love only grew in this one. I really hope she keeps remembering her worth, regardless of what happens with boys in higher stations. And I really hope she gets to become a Shadowhunter or something, because she’s just lovely, and brave, and I feel so much joy every time I read a scene with her!
➽ Benedict Lightwood - Please don’t be a dick, don’t be a dick, don’t be a dick.
➽ Magnus Bane - Magnus, my Asian and bi baby, legit had me rereading paragraphs from laughing in this book. Seriously, such a fantastic character. And such a caring character, who just makes this world so much brighter. I’m looking so very forward to his novellas.
➽ Camille Belcourt - So thankful that I read City of Fallen Angels, only because it made me appreciate everything that happened between Magnus and Will that made Camille tell Alec the things she believes. Like, friends, I was laughing out loud.
➽ Jessamine Lovelace - This bitch. You all, I knew she was trouble, I just didn’t know how much. But I wouldn’t be surprised in the slightest if she gets a redemption arc.
➽ Nate Gray - Like, what a lame and pointless character. Seriously. But like, now I want to know everything about Tessa’s necklace.
➽ Axel Mortmain - Where the fuck is this man? For real?
Like I said above, this is my favorite Cassie Clare to date! I just feel like this book took on a much darker and more mature theme, while also blending in some amazing adventure and all that good angst! I truly feel like the romance in this is one of my all-time favorites, and that’s really saying something. I just never wanted to put this book down, and I was always smiling (or crying) while reading it. This was nothing short of a treat to read.
The romance in this book was actually incredible. I kept complaining on bookstagram at 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, that this isn’t a love triangle and that its so obvious that Tessa only feels platonically for Jem. Then after that 40% mark, my world completely shifted. Friends, this is one of my favorite love triangles of all time.
I will say that I can completely understand how people can see issue with Tessa maybe feeling obligated to start something with Jem because he is dying. And obviously that’s a really terrible position to be in and I wouldn’t wish that on anyone, but I truly believed by the end of this book that Tessa does have genuine feelings for Jem. Even if I also believe with my entire heart that those feelings are stronger for Will.
You all are going to read this paragraph and you’re all going to be like “it’s not that deep, Melanie!” But I really do think that Clockwork Prince is a love letter to all the different types of love that we will have in our lives. From just friendships and wanting to support and love them unconditionally, and how magical it is when we find our own found family. To romantic love, which is that gut wrenching, pure bliss, that we don’t even have words to express, but how we don’t feel truly whole without those people/that person. And to all that messy love in-between. Even though I don’t feel the romantic love between Tess and Jem as much as I do between Tessa and Will, that doesn’t make the love lesser and it definitely doesn’t make it any less real.
And I believe with my whole heart that these three main characters should start a polyamorous relationship. These three individuals love each other so much that it just feels right, maybe even obvious, that they should be a triad or a vee. Because being in a polyamorous relationship doesn’t mean it has to be about sex. I mean, it could be, but it also means being there emotionally for your two partners, too. And even though I do believe that they should all be in a relationship with each other, they could also just both be in a relationship with Tessa and it would still be valid and pure and everything I’ve ever wanted. Cassie Clare, hear my prayers.
Okay, so something else I want to talk about is Tessa being a warlock! Like, Magnus is immortal, and we are seeing him constantly throughout The Mortal Instruments, but I’d just like to point out that I haven’t seen Tessa. So, friends, I’m scared. I’m real scared. I also know everyone talks about how heartbreaking the final book is, but I think it’s going to be even more heartbreaking than I’m anticipating.
Overall, I loved this book. Easily my favorite Cassie Clare book, yet! Again, I just want to say a big thank you to all for motivating me to pick this up, and for not spoiling me for anything. I can’t believe I’ve made it this long without being spoiled to anything, but it’s truly making my reading experience so much greater! And I can’t wait until I finally uncover every secret and can gush with you all forever over this world! I can’t wait to read Clockwork Princess, I just wish I didn’t have to read City of Lost Souls first!
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Content and trigger warnings for death, murder, loss of a loved one, talk of past torture, abandonment, talk of chronic illness, grey area consent of a kiss, grey area cheating, drug use, talk of suicide, and self-harm.
Buddy read with Amy at A Court of Crowns and Quills! ❤
2.) City of Ashes ★★
3.) City of Glass ★★★
1.) Clockwork Angel ★★★
4.) City of Fallen Angels ★
“You are a Shadowhunter. You serve a greater cause. Your life is not yours to throw away.”
Friends, this is the highest four star rating. Like, I almost want to give this book five stars because I enjoyed the last 25% so damn much. This is easily my favorite Cassie Clare book yet, and I truly had such a wonderful time reading.
This is the second installment in this history prequel series that stars a young girl named Tessa, who has traveled to London from America, who was trying to find her brother in Clockwork Angel! Well, she found him, and this book is dealing with the ramifications of what she found out. Yet, this book is also about Tessa trying to carve out a place for herself in a world that is unfamiliar to her in so many ways, while also trying to learn about her true past and who she wants to be in the future.
Okay, my review is going to touch on a couple key things that happened in this book and things that have happened in previous books, so please use caution reading the rest of this review if you have not read this book and its predecessors! And as always, I’m going to do a little mini character breakdown on my thoughts and feelings on all the main characters in this book.
➽ Tessa Gray - Poor Tessa got so many big puzzle pieces about her life handed to her in this book. And she is truly believing that her father was a demon, which could completely be true and really intrigues me. I mean, I would personally be upset that he wasn’t from fae lineage, but what can you do?
“I was born into this world to love you, and I will love you in the next life, and the one after that.”
➽ Jem Carstairs - Jem is my favorite character in this series. He's biracial, Chinese and British, living with a terminal illness, and just the sweetest character in all of literature! And I know without question he would be the one that I pick, even if he’s not the one that I’d pick for Tessa. Also, I’ve dated enough rude and brooding boys to last me (and Tessa) a lifetime.
“I have wanted to do this,” he said, “every moment of every hour of every day that I have been with you since the day I met you. But you know that. You must know. Don’t you?”
➽ Will Herondale - Even though Jem is on the cover of this book, I feel like this was Will’s book. We learned so much about him and we finally get to see what happened to him five years ago. Honestly, I love Will, and even though I won’t completely excuse the gross things he said at the end of Clockwork Angel, I understand him and appreciate him. (If only I could feel the same about Jace! Lord, help me!)
➽ Charlotte Branwell - So happy for her! I honestly love how determined she is for herself, but also how proud and supportive she is of her found family. I love this house mom, forever.
➽ Henry Branwell - So happy for him! He’s alright, but I like him because Charlotte loves him!
➽ Sophie Collins - Again, Sophie is an MVP for me in this book too. I really loved her in Clockwork Angel, and that love only grew in this one. I really hope she keeps remembering her worth, regardless of what happens with boys in higher stations. And I really hope she gets to become a Shadowhunter or something, because she’s just lovely, and brave, and I feel so much joy every time I read a scene with her!
➽ Benedict Lightwood - Please don’t be a dick, don’t be a dick, don’t be a dick.
➽ Magnus Bane - Magnus, my Asian and bi baby, legit had me rereading paragraphs from laughing in this book. Seriously, such a fantastic character. And such a caring character, who just makes this world so much brighter. I’m looking so very forward to his novellas.
➽ Camille Belcourt - So thankful that I read City of Fallen Angels, only because it made me appreciate everything that happened between Magnus and Will that made Camille tell Alec the things she believes. Like, friends, I was laughing out loud.
➽ Jessamine Lovelace - This bitch. You all, I knew she was trouble, I just didn’t know how much. But I wouldn’t be surprised in the slightest if she gets a redemption arc.
➽ Nate Gray - Like, what a lame and pointless character. Seriously. But like, now I want to know everything about Tessa’s necklace.
➽ Axel Mortmain - Where the fuck is this man? For real?
Like I said above, this is my favorite Cassie Clare to date! I just feel like this book took on a much darker and more mature theme, while also blending in some amazing adventure and all that good angst! I truly feel like the romance in this is one of my all-time favorites, and that’s really saying something. I just never wanted to put this book down, and I was always smiling (or crying) while reading it. This was nothing short of a treat to read.
The romance in this book was actually incredible. I kept complaining on bookstagram at 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, that this isn’t a love triangle and that its so obvious that Tessa only feels platonically for Jem. Then after that 40% mark, my world completely shifted. Friends, this is one of my favorite love triangles of all time.
I will say that I can completely understand how people can see issue with Tessa maybe feeling obligated to start something with Jem because he is dying. And obviously that’s a really terrible position to be in and I wouldn’t wish that on anyone, but I truly believed by the end of this book that Tessa does have genuine feelings for Jem. Even if I also believe with my entire heart that those feelings are stronger for Will.
“When she closed her eyes, she saw Jem’s face, and then Will’s, his hand to his bloody mouth. Thoughts of the two of them swirled together in her head until she fell asleep finally, not sure if she was dreaming of kissing one of them, or the other.”
You all are going to read this paragraph and you’re all going to be like “it’s not that deep, Melanie!” But I really do think that Clockwork Prince is a love letter to all the different types of love that we will have in our lives. From just friendships and wanting to support and love them unconditionally, and how magical it is when we find our own found family. To romantic love, which is that gut wrenching, pure bliss, that we don’t even have words to express, but how we don’t feel truly whole without those people/that person. And to all that messy love in-between. Even though I don’t feel the romantic love between Tess and Jem as much as I do between Tessa and Will, that doesn’t make the love lesser and it definitely doesn’t make it any less real.
“Could you really love two different people at once? Could you split your heart in half?”
And I believe with my whole heart that these three main characters should start a polyamorous relationship. These three individuals love each other so much that it just feels right, maybe even obvious, that they should be a triad or a vee. Because being in a polyamorous relationship doesn’t mean it has to be about sex. I mean, it could be, but it also means being there emotionally for your two partners, too. And even though I do believe that they should all be in a relationship with each other, they could also just both be in a relationship with Tessa and it would still be valid and pure and everything I’ve ever wanted. Cassie Clare, hear my prayers.
“I cannot explain love,” he said. “I could not tell you if I loved you the first moment I saw you, or if it was the second or third or fourth. But I remember the first moment I looked at you walking toward me and realized that somehow the rest of the world seemed to vanish when I was with you. That you were the center of everything I did and felt and thought.”
Okay, so something else I want to talk about is Tessa being a warlock! Like, Magnus is immortal, and we are seeing him constantly throughout The Mortal Instruments, but I’d just like to point out that I haven’t seen Tessa. So, friends, I’m scared. I’m real scared. I also know everyone talks about how heartbreaking the final book is, but I think it’s going to be even more heartbreaking than I’m anticipating.
Overall, I loved this book. Easily my favorite Cassie Clare book, yet! Again, I just want to say a big thank you to all for motivating me to pick this up, and for not spoiling me for anything. I can’t believe I’ve made it this long without being spoiled to anything, but it’s truly making my reading experience so much greater! And I can’t wait until I finally uncover every secret and can gush with you all forever over this world! I can’t wait to read Clockwork Princess, I just wish I didn’t have to read City of Lost Souls first!
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Content and trigger warnings for death, murder, loss of a loved one, talk of past torture, abandonment, talk of chronic illness, grey area consent of a kiss, grey area cheating, drug use, talk of suicide, and self-harm.
Buddy read with Amy at A Court of Crowns and Quills! ❤
December 6, 2020
”It is always better to live the truth than to live a lie.”
I love this quote because it sums up everything that happens in this book. There are many truths that come to the light of day and there are even more lies that are revealed and cause some damage. The difference between “Clockwork Angel” and “Clockwork Prince” always kind of astonishes me. While the first book is pretty slow and character driven this second book is all those things as well but it still feels so very different than “Clockwork Angel”.
For one thing, it’s way darker than its predecessor and we get a better understanding for all those characters and the struggles they have to deal with. They were already amazing characters on the surface but “Clockwork Prince” digs deeper than that and we finally get to see all of their different facets. Jem is more than just the kind angel everyone expects him to be, Tessa is more than the damsel in distress everyone believes her to be and Will is not the self-centred and arrogant scumbag he wants us to see. So if I have to name the difference between the first and the second book I’d say that this one goes deeper.
There’s more depth to the characters, the stakes are higher. Everything - from the storyline to the protagonists - is darker and more pronounced. There’s an urgency to “Clockwork Prince” that was never visible in the former book and it’s like an undercurrent that runs through the entire story. I just love how CC doesn’t only manage to capture my attention but also makes me feel so much with her characters. They are real people and my heart is bleeding for them. <3
And before I write another essay (which I totally could! *lol*) I’ll go to my characters section instead and talk about all those wonderful feelings! ;-P
The characters:
The London Institute is full of secrets and once you take a closer look you’ll not only discover the truth but you’ll also be spoiled! XD So if you continue on your way: Stay alert and be aware that there will be spoilers at every corner! Continue at your own peril!
Tessa:
Tessa was unmoved. “I won’t know if I like it until I try it, will I?”
“I’ve never swum naked in the Thames, but I know I wouldn’t like it.”
“But think how entertaining for sightseers,” said Tessa, and she saw Jem duck his head to hide the quick flash of his grin.
I really love Tessa’s character arc! At the beginning of the first book she was naive and basically a damsel in distress but in here we see how strong she’s become. She fights for the people she loves and cares about, she talks back to Will and gives him a run for his money and she tries to help Jessamine even though she betrayed her in the worst way possible. Tessa is a really compassionate, brave and kind character and I’m not surprised both, Will and Jem, fell for her. Also it’s nice to see her take the initiative and to go for what she wants. She’s more determined and headstrong than she was before and I like it. XD It was difficult to see how she struggled with Nate’s death because no matter what he did to her, he was still her brother and she just couldn’t hate him. >_<
”Do not mock him.” Tessa’s tone was sharp.
“Nothing is beyond mockery, Tess.”
“Jem is. He has always been good to you. He is nothing but goodness. That he hit you last night, only shows how capable you are of driving even saints to madness.”
”Do you want me to go down the hallway and knock on his door and take that away from him? And would you love me still, if I did?”
Will:
”Can you imagine it? Can you?” He raked his hands through his black hair, letting the tangled strands fall back into his eyes. “Never letting anyone near you. Making everyone who might otherwise love you, hate you. I left my family to distance myself from them, and that they might forget me. Each day I must show cruelty to those I have chosen to make my home with, lest they let themselves feel too much affection for me.”
First of all I want to say how amazing that “throwing the apple and the dagger” scene was! *lol* There’s a nonchalance about this boy that is amazing! XD Yes, he can be super arrogant but in contrast to others he can back up his arrogance with truly remarkable skills. He has every reason to be confident. ;-P This said, I suffered so much with Will in this book! The entire thing with the curse from the demon Marbas was so heart-breaking and once he found out the truth... Oh gods! Just imagine living 5 years like that and then finding out that there was actually never a curse. To gain this kind of knowledge! It must have been so devastating! T_T When Will finally realized it and broke down I just wanted to hug him and make it better. >_< That poor, poor boy! Still, I’m glad the truth is out now and it was really good to see Will’s true self. The person he hid behind all those walls for so long is a truly beautiful boy and I can’t wait to see even more of him in the next book! <333
”I feel myself diminished, parts of me spiraling away into the darkness, that which is good and honest and true – If you hold it away from yourself long enough, do you lose it entirely? If no one cares for you at all, do you even really exist?”
”It was books that made me feel that perhaps I was not completely alone. They could be honest with me, and I with them.”
Jem:
”Please,” he said softly. His voice was husky. She recognized the emotion. It was shame. “I do not want you to see me on my knees, grubbing around on the floor for the drug that I need to live. That is not how any man wants the girl he-“ He took a shaking breath. “I’m sorry, Tessa.”
It’s kind of funny but with this reread I started to appreciate Jem’s character even more. Not that I didn’t already do that but with every reread I fall more and more in love with him. The first time reading the series it was only Will, but now my heart is beating for Jem as well. There’s just something about him! His innocence and kindness is charming and for him every relationship is built on love, trust and consent. He’s so damn pure I can’t even!!! <333 And to know that the drug he has to take in order to live will also kill him one day is ... it’s just not fair. T_T Jem deserves so much more than this short life is able to give him and it hurts so damn much to know that he won’t get it. Every time I read about his struggle my heart ached even more! Every moment he showed his true feelings for Tessa I sighed. And whenever we got a glimpse of his fear I felt like dying. Jem’s impending death is looming over his head and he’s doing such a great job at trying to be brave. T_T My heart is breaking so much for this sweet, kind and gentle boy. *sobs*
”What does it matter?” he said in a voice so low it was almost a hiss. “What does any of it matter? I’m dying. I won’t outlast the decade. What does it matter if the violin goes before I do?”
”She had assumed his kindness was so natural so innate, she had never asked herself whether it cost him any effort. Any effort to stand between Will and the world, protecting each of them from the other. Any effort to accept the loss of his family with equanimity. Any effort to remain cheerful and clam in the face of his own dying.”
”I can offer you my life, but it is a short life; I can offer you my heart, though I have no idea how many more beats it shall sustain. But I love you enough to hope that you will not care that I am being selfish in trying to make the rest of my life – whatever its length – happy, by spending it with you.”
The relationships & ships:
Tessa & Will:
”Tessa,” he said, holding out a hand to stop her.
She looked at him, wishing she could ask him to go back to calling her Miss Gray. Just the way he said her name undid her, loosened something tight and knotted underneath her rib cage, making her breathless.
Their relationship in this book just about killed me! I mean we all know they love each other, yet we also found out about the reason why Will is pushing Tessa away and the poor girl is so confused because she has no idea why he’s treating her the way he does. Everything between them is hot and cold and then right back to hot and cold again. They can’t find a middle ground. It’s either all consuming passion or it’s pure iciness. A huge part of that is due to Will’s fear of the curse and what it might do to Tessa and so we can only watch and suffer while those two make irrevocable decisions that tear them apart even more. To witness this was so painful and urgh I just wanted to jump into the book and tell them to be honest with each other. So unfortunately when the truth finally comes out it’s too little too late and their ship goes down, down, down... T_T After everything Will did to keep Tessa away it’s no wonder she went right into Jem’s arms though. >_<
”He would have given everything he had in the world and everything he would ever have, just to lie beside her in the narrow infirmary bed and hold her while she slept. Pulling away from her had been like pulling his own skin off, but he’d had to do it.”
Tessa & Jem:
”Every time you say that word, ‘friendship’, it goes into me like a knife,” he said. “To be friends is a beautiful thing, Tessa, and I do not scorn it, but I have hoped for a long time now that we might be more than friends.”
So after Jem held back in the first book and gave Tessa and Will a chance to hit it off (which they didn’t); he finally decided to step out of the friendzone and told Tessa about his feelings for her. Which I adored!!! I mean here’s a man that says what he’s thinking! He’s so direct and honest with her it’s amazing! <333 I love their relationship and that they can talk about everything without holding back. The communication between those two is great and Jem is an angel! Seriously, he didn’t even expect Tessa to reciprocate his feelings and the fact that he didn’t makes him even more precious! I loved that we finally got to see Jem’s passionate side and it’s so cute that he always seems to lose control whenever he’s around Tessa. He can’t take his eyes off of her and everything he feels is plainly written on his face. XD This said, I was no huge fan of the ending. I mean I know Tessa is confused and Will finally telling her the truth must have been quite a shock. Still, the insinuation that she will stay with Jem because he’s going to die and she doesn’t want to hurt him left a really bitter taste in my mouth. She should love Jem for being Jem and not because he has a terminal disease. The way this last scene was written implied that she would gladly go with Will if she wouldn’t have accepted Jem’s proposal and I’m not okay with this. For some reason I never noticed this in my former rereads but it felt like Jem is second choice and I don’t like it. Jem deserves the world! He deserves everything! Especially a person that loves him for who he is! So yeah, I’m feeling kind of bitter about this but I hope that Tessa’s feelings in the last book will be genuine.
”I’ve never minded it,” he went on. “Being lost, that is. I had always thought one could not be truly lost if one knew one’s own heart. But I fear I may be lost without knowing yours.”
”She willed herself to melt into the kiss, to dissolve against him as she had done before.”
Jem & Will:
”Jem’s your parabatai. I’ve seen you with him. You love him, don’t you?”
“Jem is my great sin,” said Will. “Don’t talk to me about Jem.”
I really loved how nonchalant Jem was about giving Will a black eye! *lol* Heaven knows he deserved it so I don’t feel bad about it and I’m glad Jem didn’t either. Haha! Their relationship is still EVERYTHING! And I stand by my opinion! I still ship them! They have such a strong connection, they feel so close and their deep love for each other, it’s unlike anything I ever read! <333 To say they had it easy in this book would be a lie though. Both of them struggled with their personal problems, yet they always found their way back to each other. They would do everything to make each other happy, even if it means to let go of the one thing they both want more than anything else in the world. >_< I just can’t with those two. They are so gentle and tender with each other and you can see their love in every single action they make. To hear Will voice his feelings about Jem... it broke my heart. A love so strong shouldn’t be severed by death and it kills me to know that Jem is getting weaker. T_T Ahh I just love them so much! My two precious boys! *sobs uncontrollably*
”He owed Jem his life. He could not take from him the one thing Jem wanted more than anything else.”
”I would always have forgiven you,” he said. “I would have forgiven you if you hadn’t apologized. In fact, I wasn’t expecting you would. Tessa’s influence, I can only guess.”
“I am not here at her request. James, you are all the family I have.” Will’s voice shook. “I would die for you. You know that. I would die without you.”
”What?”
“I said that Jem proposed to me,” she whispered. “He asked if I would marry him. And I said I would.”
Will had gone shockingly white. He said, “Jem. My Jem?”
Tessa & Nate:
”You couldn’t leave well enough alone. You had to pry into my business. Delighted to see me brought low, are you? What kind of sister does that make you, Tessie?”
I just hate Nate, okay?! This boy was so selfish and horrible! Every time he met Tessa he made sure to let her know how little he cared about her! What’s even worse is that he tried to give her a bad conscience for not going along with his plans. Like seriously! Are you kidding me? You blame your sister because she didn’t agree to being married off to an old lunatic who wants to use and hurt her?! URGH! I just can’t with Nate! I understand that Tessa is heartbroken because he died, he was her brother after all, but the things he did were just vile and if it would have been me I wouldn’t have forgiven him. Also Jessamine... why the freaking hell did she marry him?! She should have known better than that.
”My brother,” Tessa said in a barely controlled voice, “is a lying murderer, incapable of feeling. He may have married you, Jessamine, but he does not love you.”
Conclusion:
I love this series and its characters with every fibre of my heart! <3 It might have taken me four months to read this but that’s just because I savoured every single letter and sentence. XD The background stories were amazing and to read this was bittersweet. “Clockwork Prince” is a wonderful sequel and I can’t wait to read “Clockwork Princess”. I know it will destroy me, but my faerie heart is kind of looking forward to it. *lol*
I love this quote because it sums up everything that happens in this book. There are many truths that come to the light of day and there are even more lies that are revealed and cause some damage. The difference between “Clockwork Angel” and “Clockwork Prince” always kind of astonishes me. While the first book is pretty slow and character driven this second book is all those things as well but it still feels so very different than “Clockwork Angel”.
For one thing, it’s way darker than its predecessor and we get a better understanding for all those characters and the struggles they have to deal with. They were already amazing characters on the surface but “Clockwork Prince” digs deeper than that and we finally get to see all of their different facets. Jem is more than just the kind angel everyone expects him to be, Tessa is more than the damsel in distress everyone believes her to be and Will is not the self-centred and arrogant scumbag he wants us to see. So if I have to name the difference between the first and the second book I’d say that this one goes deeper.
There’s more depth to the characters, the stakes are higher. Everything - from the storyline to the protagonists - is darker and more pronounced. There’s an urgency to “Clockwork Prince” that was never visible in the former book and it’s like an undercurrent that runs through the entire story. I just love how CC doesn’t only manage to capture my attention but also makes me feel so much with her characters. They are real people and my heart is bleeding for them. <3
And before I write another essay (which I totally could! *lol*) I’ll go to my characters section instead and talk about all those wonderful feelings! ;-P
The characters:
The London Institute is full of secrets and once you take a closer look you’ll not only discover the truth but you’ll also be spoiled! XD So if you continue on your way: Stay alert and be aware that there will be spoilers at every corner! Continue at your own peril!
Tessa:
Tessa was unmoved. “I won’t know if I like it until I try it, will I?”
“I’ve never swum naked in the Thames, but I know I wouldn’t like it.”
“But think how entertaining for sightseers,” said Tessa, and she saw Jem duck his head to hide the quick flash of his grin.
I really love Tessa’s character arc! At the beginning of the first book she was naive and basically a damsel in distress but in here we see how strong she’s become. She fights for the people she loves and cares about, she talks back to Will and gives him a run for his money and she tries to help Jessamine even though she betrayed her in the worst way possible. Tessa is a really compassionate, brave and kind character and I’m not surprised both, Will and Jem, fell for her. Also it’s nice to see her take the initiative and to go for what she wants. She’s more determined and headstrong than she was before and I like it. XD It was difficult to see how she struggled with Nate’s death because no matter what he did to her, he was still her brother and she just couldn’t hate him. >_<
”Do not mock him.” Tessa’s tone was sharp.
“Nothing is beyond mockery, Tess.”
“Jem is. He has always been good to you. He is nothing but goodness. That he hit you last night, only shows how capable you are of driving even saints to madness.”
”Do you want me to go down the hallway and knock on his door and take that away from him? And would you love me still, if I did?”
Will:
”Can you imagine it? Can you?” He raked his hands through his black hair, letting the tangled strands fall back into his eyes. “Never letting anyone near you. Making everyone who might otherwise love you, hate you. I left my family to distance myself from them, and that they might forget me. Each day I must show cruelty to those I have chosen to make my home with, lest they let themselves feel too much affection for me.”
First of all I want to say how amazing that “throwing the apple and the dagger” scene was! *lol* There’s a nonchalance about this boy that is amazing! XD Yes, he can be super arrogant but in contrast to others he can back up his arrogance with truly remarkable skills. He has every reason to be confident. ;-P This said, I suffered so much with Will in this book! The entire thing with the curse from the demon Marbas was so heart-breaking and once he found out the truth... Oh gods! Just imagine living 5 years like that and then finding out that there was actually never a curse. To gain this kind of knowledge! It must have been so devastating! T_T When Will finally realized it and broke down I just wanted to hug him and make it better. >_< That poor, poor boy! Still, I’m glad the truth is out now and it was really good to see Will’s true self. The person he hid behind all those walls for so long is a truly beautiful boy and I can’t wait to see even more of him in the next book! <333
”I feel myself diminished, parts of me spiraling away into the darkness, that which is good and honest and true – If you hold it away from yourself long enough, do you lose it entirely? If no one cares for you at all, do you even really exist?”
”It was books that made me feel that perhaps I was not completely alone. They could be honest with me, and I with them.”
Jem:
”Please,” he said softly. His voice was husky. She recognized the emotion. It was shame. “I do not want you to see me on my knees, grubbing around on the floor for the drug that I need to live. That is not how any man wants the girl he-“ He took a shaking breath. “I’m sorry, Tessa.”
It’s kind of funny but with this reread I started to appreciate Jem’s character even more. Not that I didn’t already do that but with every reread I fall more and more in love with him. The first time reading the series it was only Will, but now my heart is beating for Jem as well. There’s just something about him! His innocence and kindness is charming and for him every relationship is built on love, trust and consent. He’s so damn pure I can’t even!!! <333 And to know that the drug he has to take in order to live will also kill him one day is ... it’s just not fair. T_T Jem deserves so much more than this short life is able to give him and it hurts so damn much to know that he won’t get it. Every time I read about his struggle my heart ached even more! Every moment he showed his true feelings for Tessa I sighed. And whenever we got a glimpse of his fear I felt like dying. Jem’s impending death is looming over his head and he’s doing such a great job at trying to be brave. T_T My heart is breaking so much for this sweet, kind and gentle boy. *sobs*
”What does it matter?” he said in a voice so low it was almost a hiss. “What does any of it matter? I’m dying. I won’t outlast the decade. What does it matter if the violin goes before I do?”
”She had assumed his kindness was so natural so innate, she had never asked herself whether it cost him any effort. Any effort to stand between Will and the world, protecting each of them from the other. Any effort to accept the loss of his family with equanimity. Any effort to remain cheerful and clam in the face of his own dying.”
”I can offer you my life, but it is a short life; I can offer you my heart, though I have no idea how many more beats it shall sustain. But I love you enough to hope that you will not care that I am being selfish in trying to make the rest of my life – whatever its length – happy, by spending it with you.”
The relationships & ships:
Tessa & Will:
”Tessa,” he said, holding out a hand to stop her.
She looked at him, wishing she could ask him to go back to calling her Miss Gray. Just the way he said her name undid her, loosened something tight and knotted underneath her rib cage, making her breathless.
Their relationship in this book just about killed me! I mean we all know they love each other, yet we also found out about the reason why Will is pushing Tessa away and the poor girl is so confused because she has no idea why he’s treating her the way he does. Everything between them is hot and cold and then right back to hot and cold again. They can’t find a middle ground. It’s either all consuming passion or it’s pure iciness. A huge part of that is due to Will’s fear of the curse and what it might do to Tessa and so we can only watch and suffer while those two make irrevocable decisions that tear them apart even more. To witness this was so painful and urgh I just wanted to jump into the book and tell them to be honest with each other. So unfortunately when the truth finally comes out it’s too little too late and their ship goes down, down, down... T_T After everything Will did to keep Tessa away it’s no wonder she went right into Jem’s arms though. >_<
”He would have given everything he had in the world and everything he would ever have, just to lie beside her in the narrow infirmary bed and hold her while she slept. Pulling away from her had been like pulling his own skin off, but he’d had to do it.”
Tessa & Jem:
”Every time you say that word, ‘friendship’, it goes into me like a knife,” he said. “To be friends is a beautiful thing, Tessa, and I do not scorn it, but I have hoped for a long time now that we might be more than friends.”
So after Jem held back in the first book and gave Tessa and Will a chance to hit it off (which they didn’t); he finally decided to step out of the friendzone and told Tessa about his feelings for her. Which I adored!!! I mean here’s a man that says what he’s thinking! He’s so direct and honest with her it’s amazing! <333 I love their relationship and that they can talk about everything without holding back. The communication between those two is great and Jem is an angel! Seriously, he didn’t even expect Tessa to reciprocate his feelings and the fact that he didn’t makes him even more precious! I loved that we finally got to see Jem’s passionate side and it’s so cute that he always seems to lose control whenever he’s around Tessa. He can’t take his eyes off of her and everything he feels is plainly written on his face. XD This said, I was no huge fan of the ending. I mean I know Tessa is confused and Will finally telling her the truth must have been quite a shock. Still, the insinuation that she will stay with Jem because he’s going to die and she doesn’t want to hurt him left a really bitter taste in my mouth. She should love Jem for being Jem and not because he has a terminal disease. The way this last scene was written implied that she would gladly go with Will if she wouldn’t have accepted Jem’s proposal and I’m not okay with this. For some reason I never noticed this in my former rereads but it felt like Jem is second choice and I don’t like it. Jem deserves the world! He deserves everything! Especially a person that loves him for who he is! So yeah, I’m feeling kind of bitter about this but I hope that Tessa’s feelings in the last book will be genuine.
”I’ve never minded it,” he went on. “Being lost, that is. I had always thought one could not be truly lost if one knew one’s own heart. But I fear I may be lost without knowing yours.”
”She willed herself to melt into the kiss, to dissolve against him as she had done before.”
Jem & Will:
”Jem’s your parabatai. I’ve seen you with him. You love him, don’t you?”
“Jem is my great sin,” said Will. “Don’t talk to me about Jem.”
I really loved how nonchalant Jem was about giving Will a black eye! *lol* Heaven knows he deserved it so I don’t feel bad about it and I’m glad Jem didn’t either. Haha! Their relationship is still EVERYTHING! And I stand by my opinion! I still ship them! They have such a strong connection, they feel so close and their deep love for each other, it’s unlike anything I ever read! <333 To say they had it easy in this book would be a lie though. Both of them struggled with their personal problems, yet they always found their way back to each other. They would do everything to make each other happy, even if it means to let go of the one thing they both want more than anything else in the world. >_< I just can’t with those two. They are so gentle and tender with each other and you can see their love in every single action they make. To hear Will voice his feelings about Jem... it broke my heart. A love so strong shouldn’t be severed by death and it kills me to know that Jem is getting weaker. T_T Ahh I just love them so much! My two precious boys! *sobs uncontrollably*
”He owed Jem his life. He could not take from him the one thing Jem wanted more than anything else.”
”I would always have forgiven you,” he said. “I would have forgiven you if you hadn’t apologized. In fact, I wasn’t expecting you would. Tessa’s influence, I can only guess.”
“I am not here at her request. James, you are all the family I have.” Will’s voice shook. “I would die for you. You know that. I would die without you.”
”What?”
“I said that Jem proposed to me,” she whispered. “He asked if I would marry him. And I said I would.”
Will had gone shockingly white. He said, “Jem. My Jem?”
Tessa & Nate:
”You couldn’t leave well enough alone. You had to pry into my business. Delighted to see me brought low, are you? What kind of sister does that make you, Tessie?”
I just hate Nate, okay?! This boy was so selfish and horrible! Every time he met Tessa he made sure to let her know how little he cared about her! What’s even worse is that he tried to give her a bad conscience for not going along with his plans. Like seriously! Are you kidding me? You blame your sister because she didn’t agree to being married off to an old lunatic who wants to use and hurt her?! URGH! I just can’t with Nate! I understand that Tessa is heartbroken because he died, he was her brother after all, but the things he did were just vile and if it would have been me I wouldn’t have forgiven him. Also Jessamine... why the freaking hell did she marry him?! She should have known better than that.
”My brother,” Tessa said in a barely controlled voice, “is a lying murderer, incapable of feeling. He may have married you, Jessamine, but he does not love you.”
Conclusion:
I love this series and its characters with every fibre of my heart! <3 It might have taken me four months to read this but that’s just because I savoured every single letter and sentence. XD The background stories were amazing and to read this was bittersweet. “Clockwork Prince” is a wonderful sequel and I can’t wait to read “Clockwork Princess”. I know it will destroy me, but my faerie heart is kind of looking forward to it. *lol*
July 24, 2019
oh, cassandra. you cruel woman. i feel as if i have been emotionally manipulated into liking and caring for will herondale. i mean, i demanded answers after ‘clockwork angel’ and now i have them, so i guess i shouldnt complain. but this!? this is impossibly tragic. my poor sweet will.
but where i have come to adore will, ive found myself not really invested in tessa. i mean, this is supposed to be her story - CC calls it ‘tessas london’ - and yet, everyone else effortlessly outshines her. even silly jessamine has a better character arc/development than her. its just such a shame that i feel like tessa really has no contribution to the story, other than pining after will and jem (who both deserve better, imo).
but talking about the story overall, where the first book is very fast paced and plot driven, this is more on the slower side of things. this focuses on character development and providing backstories, which i appreciate because i feel like that was missing from ‘clockwork angel,’ but i do miss the action. i really hope the next book is a combination of both plot and character stories, because a balance would make for a perfect conclusion to this series. so heres hoping!
↠ 4 stars
but where i have come to adore will, ive found myself not really invested in tessa. i mean, this is supposed to be her story - CC calls it ‘tessas london’ - and yet, everyone else effortlessly outshines her. even silly jessamine has a better character arc/development than her. its just such a shame that i feel like tessa really has no contribution to the story, other than pining after will and jem (who both deserve better, imo).
but talking about the story overall, where the first book is very fast paced and plot driven, this is more on the slower side of things. this focuses on character development and providing backstories, which i appreciate because i feel like that was missing from ‘clockwork angel,’ but i do miss the action. i really hope the next book is a combination of both plot and character stories, because a balance would make for a perfect conclusion to this series. so heres hoping!
↠ 4 stars
November 28, 2020
This book did it. This precious book. It broke my long reading slump. I can’t believe I can finally read again. Thank you Cassandra Claire.
I hope I can write a review for this book. I miss the feeling that writing my long reviews gives me. :(
I hope I can write a review for this book. I miss the feeling that writing my long reviews gives me. :(
December 21, 2011
” Zhe shi jie shang, wo shi zui ai ni de.”
” In this world, I love you the most.”
Holy Carstairs! This book was perfection!
The hunt for the Magister continues. Although he never shows up in this book. Tessa still tries to help in the hunt for Mortmain by using her power to Change. She feels guilty over her brother, who is still incredibly evil and using someone close to her to spy on them. This book is as full of danger and excitement as the first. Tessa is trying to stay away from brooding Will and she continues to grow closer to Jem.
Jem is perfection. In Tessa's words he is so good and kind and beautiful. I could talk about him forever. I so hope for once the good guy wins because if anyone deserves it, Jem does. He is the greatest friend to everyone and I so hope Tessa really continues to see what a perfect match he is for her. Every line he said had my stomach in butterflies and me swooning all over the place. I literally wore out pages 201-207. Greatest. Scene. Ever.
Don't forget to read the scene from Jem's POV here http://www.cassandraclare.com/my-writ...
We finally learn Will's big secret. Although it wasn't that big of a reveal for me. I was honestly hoping for something a little more dramatic. I felt a little bad for Will but then again I didn't. He had FIVE YEARS to look into it. Yes he was young when it first happened but he could of talked to Jem about it or looked into it himself. I was highly disappointed with this plot line.
I enjoyed Sophie getting more of a story and a love interest. I also loved getting to know Charlotte and Henry more and seeing them support each other. Gideon and Gabriel were interesting and I loved the bickering between them and the other characters. While I am looking forward to Clockwork Princess, I fear heartbreak. So I will continue to ride this perfect high of happiness while I can. This book left me full of joy and swooning.
” In this world, I love you the most.”
Holy Carstairs! This book was perfection!
The hunt for the Magister continues. Although he never shows up in this book. Tessa still tries to help in the hunt for Mortmain by using her power to Change. She feels guilty over her brother, who is still incredibly evil and using someone close to her to spy on them. This book is as full of danger and excitement as the first. Tessa is trying to stay away from brooding Will and she continues to grow closer to Jem.
Jem is perfection. In Tessa's words he is so good and kind and beautiful. I could talk about him forever. I so hope for once the good guy wins because if anyone deserves it, Jem does. He is the greatest friend to everyone and I so hope Tessa really continues to see what a perfect match he is for her. Every line he said had my stomach in butterflies and me swooning all over the place. I literally wore out pages 201-207. Greatest. Scene. Ever.
Don't forget to read the scene from Jem's POV here http://www.cassandraclare.com/my-writ...
We finally learn Will's big secret. Although it wasn't that big of a reveal for me. I was honestly hoping for something a little more dramatic. I felt a little bad for Will but then again I didn't. He had FIVE YEARS to look into it. Yes he was young when it first happened but he could of talked to Jem about it or looked into it himself. I was highly disappointed with this plot line.
I enjoyed Sophie getting more of a story and a love interest. I also loved getting to know Charlotte and Henry more and seeing them support each other. Gideon and Gabriel were interesting and I loved the bickering between them and the other characters. While I am looking forward to Clockwork Princess, I fear heartbreak. So I will continue to ride this perfect high of happiness while I can. This book left me full of joy and swooning.
April 30, 2013
Will Herondale, will you marry me?
SO MUCH FEELS RIGHT NOW. I'll edit later.
SO MUCH FEELS RIGHT NOW. I'll edit later.
December 10, 2020
It was books that made me feel that perhaps I was not completely alone. They could be honest with me, and I with them.
There are not enough words in my vocabulary to go about reviewing this book. This book is one of those books that will make you stay up until 2am and you don't want to put it down because you are immersed in the tale and the characters. I felt myself attracted to the book like iron fillings to a magnet.
Tessa finds her home among the Shadowhunters in the Institute of London. But forces in The Clave want Charlotte removed as the head of the Institute- they can only prevent it by finding The Magister. Tessa, Will and Jem are all set to discover and unravel harsh truths from the Magister's past. In the process, Tessa discerns that her past and parentage were far more sinister than she had envisioned. Amidst all this gloom and doom, Tessa finds herself getting closer to Jem and is grief-stricken by his aggravating condition. And Will, tormented by demons of his own, with the aid of Magnus, discovers something that wrenches his heart and breaks him. And what follows, broke my heart..
There are so many aspects that endear this story to me. I loved the character development: How Tessa grew from being naive and bookish to a person who can acknowledge and control her power. And as much as I succumbed to the bad boy charm of Will Herondale in the first book, I really like how Clare showed us the reason behind why he is the way he is in this one.
The love triangle felt excruciating to read. It felt like being stabbed in the heart. And I can only imagine how difficult it is for anyone in fact, to make a choice between Jem and Will.
Apart from all this, I also loved how Clare added a few elements of humour and sarcasm in the form of Will and it had me chuckling and grinning quite often 😂
Overall, this is a solid, heart-wrenching and a gripping fantasy tale and I vow never to forget it, never in a thousand years.
5 stars for whatever just transpired✨
There are not enough words in my vocabulary to go about reviewing this book. This book is one of those books that will make you stay up until 2am and you don't want to put it down because you are immersed in the tale and the characters. I felt myself attracted to the book like iron fillings to a magnet.
Tessa finds her home among the Shadowhunters in the Institute of London. But forces in The Clave want Charlotte removed as the head of the Institute- they can only prevent it by finding The Magister. Tessa, Will and Jem are all set to discover and unravel harsh truths from the Magister's past. In the process, Tessa discerns that her past and parentage were far more sinister than she had envisioned. Amidst all this gloom and doom, Tessa finds herself getting closer to Jem and is grief-stricken by his aggravating condition. And Will, tormented by demons of his own, with the aid of Magnus, discovers something that wrenches his heart and breaks him. And what follows, broke my heart..
There are so many aspects that endear this story to me. I loved the character development: How Tessa grew from being naive and bookish to a person who can acknowledge and control her power. And as much as I succumbed to the bad boy charm of Will Herondale in the first book, I really like how Clare showed us the reason behind why he is the way he is in this one.
The love triangle felt excruciating to read. It felt like being stabbed in the heart. And I can only imagine how difficult it is for anyone in fact, to make a choice between Jem and Will.
Apart from all this, I also loved how Clare added a few elements of humour and sarcasm in the form of Will and it had me chuckling and grinning quite often 😂
Overall, this is a solid, heart-wrenching and a gripping fantasy tale and I vow never to forget it, never in a thousand years.
5 stars for whatever just transpired✨
February 8, 2018
Actual footage of me after I read Chapter 20
I miss you, William Herondale.
“But now, you are twain,
you are cloven apart
Flesh of his flesh,
but heart of my heart”
I miss you, William Herondale.
September 27, 2021
Jem Carstairs deserves someone better
You know
Like me✨
You know
Like me✨
February 9, 2012
Five hundred pages in which very little occurs other than (say it with me) the love triangle. This whole book is a love triangle in search of a story.
Do they find Mortmain? No.
Do they even find out where he might be? No.
Do they find out why Mortmain wants Tessa? No.
Do they find out what exactly Tessa is? No.
Do Tessa and Jem get up close and personal? Yes.
Do Tessa and Will get up close and personal? Yes.
Do you get my point? I hope so.
I don't like this.
There is nothing that happens here that moves the plot along. Not one thing, unless you believe that the book isn't about the actual automaton army or the evil plot of its creator and is, in fact, only supposed to be about the triangle, in which case, you will be very happy. Enjoy.
And I am so exhausted with reading about how good, kind, thoughtful, cheerful, wonderful, perfect, and DELICATE is Gem, I mean Jem. (Clever use of naming there, except NOT) I was so angry with Tessa at the end of this book. I was so angry that she didn't even take a day to think things over Honestly, Ms. Clare, please think up something else for tension in your books. Please.
Most of the book is everyone sitting around the dining table or in the drawing room or various bedrooms(Tessa) and talking, plotting what they will do, where they will go, etc. And most of the action seems only to be situations in which Tessa can be alone with either of her boys or both.
They travel to Yorkshire, both boys.
They search out Will in Whitechapel, Jem (and then a cuddle up with Will).
A fancy ball at Lightwood's estate, Will.
Visiting Jessamine, Jem
Visiting Lightwood, Will.
And that is pretty much all that actually happens.
I've said this before about other books, but I do think it bears repeating. If Tessa was a guy messing this way with two hot girls, would readers think it is perfectly fine? I really don't think they would. And, honestly Tessa's behavior isn't okay. It. Just. Is. Not. (I don't mean that in the Victorian sense, but almost having sex with this boy one night and the next night being all over the other one, it is questionable behavior, to say the least.)
One final very last thing, I promise this is my really last addition, but it's a biggie. Will and Jem are parabatai, closer than brothers, finish each other's sentences, no that's wrong, they actually finish each other's thoughts. All of that, they are so close, they are each other's rock, each other's steadfast friend when they have no friends left. And neither one of them, not at all, not even a tiny little teeny weeny hint, neither one has any idea that the other one is in love with the girl he loves. I find that impossible to believe. Neither one would notice that the other acts differently around this girl. Neither one would say, "hey, dude" what's up with that?" Yeah, I know, these are Victorian Shadowhunters who would not say hey dude, but seriously, they would be aware of the other, wouldn't they? Seriously, wouldn't they? I know gentlemen of this time were very circumspect in their conversation and all that, but come the heck on. Even Fitzwilliam Darcy in Pride and Prejudice, the paragon of manners and proper behavior(hey, if Clare can use those references then so can I) discusses matters of the heart with his friend, Bingley so you can't say that men don't do that.
I will finish off this series. There had best be only one more book as planned. Unfortunately, there is nothing original here and unless Clare can come up with a new plot that isn't merely romantic angst for no real reason masquerading as whatever this is supposed to be, I will think more than twice about starting any new series she might write. Sorry.
Do they find Mortmain? No.
Do they even find out where he might be? No.
Do they find out why Mortmain wants Tessa? No.
Do they find out what exactly Tessa is? No.
Do Tessa and Jem get up close and personal? Yes.
Do Tessa and Will get up close and personal? Yes.
Do you get my point? I hope so.
I don't like this.
There is nothing that happens here that moves the plot along. Not one thing, unless you believe that the book isn't about the actual automaton army or the evil plot of its creator and is, in fact, only supposed to be about the triangle, in which case, you will be very happy. Enjoy.
And I am so exhausted with reading about how good, kind, thoughtful, cheerful, wonderful, perfect, and DELICATE is Gem, I mean Jem. (Clever use of naming there, except NOT) I was so angry with Tessa at the end of this book. I was so angry that she didn't even take a day to think things over Honestly, Ms. Clare, please think up something else for tension in your books. Please.
Most of the book is everyone sitting around the dining table or in the drawing room or various bedrooms(Tessa) and talking, plotting what they will do, where they will go, etc. And most of the action seems only to be situations in which Tessa can be alone with either of her boys or both.
They travel to Yorkshire, both boys.
They search out Will in Whitechapel, Jem (and then a cuddle up with Will).
A fancy ball at Lightwood's estate, Will.
Visiting Jessamine, Jem
Visiting Lightwood, Will.
And that is pretty much all that actually happens.
I've said this before about other books, but I do think it bears repeating. If Tessa was a guy messing this way with two hot girls, would readers think it is perfectly fine? I really don't think they would. And, honestly Tessa's behavior isn't okay. It. Just. Is. Not. (I don't mean that in the Victorian sense, but almost having sex with this boy one night and the next night being all over the other one, it is questionable behavior, to say the least.)
One final very last thing, I promise this is my really last addition, but it's a biggie. Will and Jem are parabatai, closer than brothers, finish each other's sentences, no that's wrong, they actually finish each other's thoughts. All of that, they are so close, they are each other's rock, each other's steadfast friend when they have no friends left. And neither one of them, not at all, not even a tiny little teeny weeny hint, neither one has any idea that the other one is in love with the girl he loves. I find that impossible to believe. Neither one would notice that the other acts differently around this girl. Neither one would say, "hey, dude" what's up with that?" Yeah, I know, these are Victorian Shadowhunters who would not say hey dude, but seriously, they would be aware of the other, wouldn't they? Seriously, wouldn't they? I know gentlemen of this time were very circumspect in their conversation and all that, but come the heck on. Even Fitzwilliam Darcy in Pride and Prejudice, the paragon of manners and proper behavior(hey, if Clare can use those references then so can I) discusses matters of the heart with his friend, Bingley so you can't say that men don't do that.
I will finish off this series. There had best be only one more book as planned. Unfortunately, there is nothing original here and unless Clare can come up with a new plot that isn't merely romantic angst for no real reason masquerading as whatever this is supposed to be, I will think more than twice about starting any new series she might write. Sorry.
October 28, 2020
re-read 11.01.2020
I know this is a hard question but I just have to ask: Jem or Will?
Even though I love Will with all my heart, Jem was, is and will be my number one.
I know this is a hard question but I just have to ask: Jem or Will?
Even though I love Will with all my heart, Jem was, is and will be my number one.
December 11, 2011
I might actually die if people are choosing 'teams' like this is the Twilight Saga or something. The "team Gale' 'team Peeta' thing already came close to ruining the Hunger Games for me and after reading this and the MI trilogy I think these might be my favorite books now. If they go down like the twilight books did, with everybody either loving them and being obnoxious and choosing retarded "sides" then sensible people who think this side nonsense is a bunch of BS and that teenagers only like the books because they want to bang the characters will hate the books without reading them. Please don't ruin these books with the 'side' nonsense! A character can be much nicer, sweeter and cuter than another (Jem) but to say that you are on their side and therefore against the other is retarded and the reason that most people 'hate' the Twilight Saga. They don't hate the books (which they haven't read) but rather the over-excited fans who only care about one boy over the other. This is real literature, don't ruin it for the true bookies
May 22, 2020
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Actual rating: 3.75 stars
I have seen people raving about this series since I joined GR and I wanted to read it ever since. I can see why it is a beloved series but up to this point, I don’t know if things changed in the last 10 years when this was released but I am convinced it is highly over-rated (Just check the book’s rating on GR).
I don’t know if there is much to say about the writing, it is typical CC writing which works for me and there are a lot of quotes that I liked. I have to confess that the banter is becoming predictable and annoying in its repetitivity.
This book switched the positive and negative points that I mentioned in my review of book 1, in another language, I said the characters were a bit underdeveloped in book 1 but the plot was good, this book focused on characters development very much -and it works- but it does so at the expense of the plot. I can say that I care about almost most of the characters now, Tessa is still not the best protagonist I have ever read but she is not bad either. Will and Jem are well written, but I was impressed by the development of Charlotte, Henry, Sophie and Jessamine.
The thing I did not like was how slow the plot was, I don’t even think there was much plot to start with. This felt more like a filler and taking that into consideration, it still moved at a snail-slow pacing. I expected to get many more answers but I did not, CC moved the plot only a tiny bit further from where it stopped at book 1 and she did it with a 500 pages long book! The raving and love this book have made me believe we were going to have an awesome plot but nope, we didn’t!
At the heart of this story, there is a love triangle, which does not surprise me given how those were the trend at that time -Still are- but for once, I did not mind that trope because I am a believer of the fact that any trope could be a good trope if it is well done and it was the case here. Instead of a toxic triangle full of jealousy and betrayal, there was a triangle made of strong friendships and love! This is certainly one of the best triangle I have read in the YA genre!
The world-building is okay, I think I am a bigger fan of the building in TMI, because it was more explained and expanded! I miss the runes and the different creatures and the actions scenes that all works together to give something epic. The last chapters were the best which is CC redeeming quality and it ends with a cliffhanger as usual. I think CC is one of the authors that can deliver a killer finale so finger cross she does that here!
Summary: A slightly better book than the first one with more developed characters but slower pacing. The book did not add very much to the story and still plenty of things to answer. The book has potential so I am continuing the series to see why the finale has such great reviews! The final question is, who do you stan: Will vs Jem?
You can get more books from Book Depository
Actual rating: 3.75 stars
“If no one cares for you at all, do you even really exist?”
I have seen people raving about this series since I joined GR and I wanted to read it ever since. I can see why it is a beloved series but up to this point, I don’t know if things changed in the last 10 years when this was released but I am convinced it is highly over-rated (Just check the book’s rating on GR).
I don’t know if there is much to say about the writing, it is typical CC writing which works for me and there are a lot of quotes that I liked. I have to confess that the banter is becoming predictable and annoying in its repetitivity.
This book switched the positive and negative points that I mentioned in my review of book 1, in another language, I said the characters were a bit underdeveloped in book 1 but the plot was good, this book focused on characters development very much -and it works- but it does so at the expense of the plot. I can say that I care about almost most of the characters now, Tessa is still not the best protagonist I have ever read but she is not bad either. Will and Jem are well written, but I was impressed by the development of Charlotte, Henry, Sophie and Jessamine.
“They say time heals all wounds, but that presumes the source of the grief is finite”
The thing I did not like was how slow the plot was, I don’t even think there was much plot to start with. This felt more like a filler and taking that into consideration, it still moved at a snail-slow pacing. I expected to get many more answers but I did not, CC moved the plot only a tiny bit further from where it stopped at book 1 and she did it with a 500 pages long book! The raving and love this book have made me believe we were going to have an awesome plot but nope, we didn’t!
At the heart of this story, there is a love triangle, which does not surprise me given how those were the trend at that time -Still are- but for once, I did not mind that trope because I am a believer of the fact that any trope could be a good trope if it is well done and it was the case here. Instead of a toxic triangle full of jealousy and betrayal, there was a triangle made of strong friendships and love! This is certainly one of the best triangle I have read in the YA genre!
The world-building is okay, I think I am a bigger fan of the building in TMI, because it was more explained and expanded! I miss the runes and the different creatures and the actions scenes that all works together to give something epic. The last chapters were the best which is CC redeeming quality and it ends with a cliffhanger as usual. I think CC is one of the authors that can deliver a killer finale so finger cross she does that here!
“It was books that made me feel that perhaps I was not completely alone. They could be honest with me, and I with them.”
Summary: A slightly better book than the first one with more developed characters but slower pacing. The book did not add very much to the story and still plenty of things to answer. The book has potential so I am continuing the series to see why the finale has such great reviews! The final question is, who do you stan: Will vs Jem?
You can get more books from Book Depository
December 18, 2022
With the events of Clockwork Angel behind them, one would think life would get easier for Tessa and her friends.
That's certainly not the case, however, as things are rarely ever easy in the realm of the Shadowhunters.
A contingent within the Clave have set their sights on removing Charlotte as head of the London Institute, threatening the stable home currently occupied by Tessa, Jem, Will and Jessamine.
The group needs to put a stop to it and prove that Charlotte is a great representative of the Clave. They need to be sure she'll remain within her position.
Part of the answer to their troubles may be found with the Lightwood brothers, Gabriel and Gideon. The Lightwood boys play a larger role in this book, as they begin training Tessa and the new maid, Sophie, in fighting techniques.
We learn a lot more in this novel about both Jem and Will, as well as their relationship with one another. I enjoyed this aspect of the story a lot. It helped to answer some questions I had during the first book.
As the whole truth of Will's past comes to light, it somehow made me love him even more. I didn't even think that was possible.
In the vein of giant truths being revealed, my favorite being that there is a traitor amongst them, we also discover more about the mysterious and sinister Magister, as his motivations start to come to light.
The bottom line is that in Clockwork Prince, Clare continues to do her thing. The world is consistently built out in a way that is easy to understand and completely compelling.
The characters are becoming more multifaceted and my attachment to them is now officially off the charts. While much is revealed in this book, there are still a lot of unknowns and I MUST KNOW!!!
Deciding to read the Shadowhunter Chronicles is one of the best decisions I have ever made. I am nothing if not dramatic, but that doesn't make this statement less true.
I cannot wait to find out what the ultimate conclusion is for these characters, but first, I need to read City of Lost Souls.
You guessed it, that's up next. I do enjoy TMI, but personally, I enjoy this series more. I think it is the combination of these characters and the setting in Victorian London that simply takes the cake for me.
That's certainly not the case, however, as things are rarely ever easy in the realm of the Shadowhunters.
A contingent within the Clave have set their sights on removing Charlotte as head of the London Institute, threatening the stable home currently occupied by Tessa, Jem, Will and Jessamine.
The group needs to put a stop to it and prove that Charlotte is a great representative of the Clave. They need to be sure she'll remain within her position.
Part of the answer to their troubles may be found with the Lightwood brothers, Gabriel and Gideon. The Lightwood boys play a larger role in this book, as they begin training Tessa and the new maid, Sophie, in fighting techniques.
We learn a lot more in this novel about both Jem and Will, as well as their relationship with one another. I enjoyed this aspect of the story a lot. It helped to answer some questions I had during the first book.
As the whole truth of Will's past comes to light, it somehow made me love him even more. I didn't even think that was possible.
In the vein of giant truths being revealed, my favorite being that there is a traitor amongst them, we also discover more about the mysterious and sinister Magister, as his motivations start to come to light.
The bottom line is that in Clockwork Prince, Clare continues to do her thing. The world is consistently built out in a way that is easy to understand and completely compelling.
The characters are becoming more multifaceted and my attachment to them is now officially off the charts. While much is revealed in this book, there are still a lot of unknowns and I MUST KNOW!!!
Deciding to read the Shadowhunter Chronicles is one of the best decisions I have ever made. I am nothing if not dramatic, but that doesn't make this statement less true.
I cannot wait to find out what the ultimate conclusion is for these characters, but first, I need to read City of Lost Souls.
You guessed it, that's up next. I do enjoy TMI, but personally, I enjoy this series more. I think it is the combination of these characters and the setting in Victorian London that simply takes the cake for me.
November 17, 2020
Even though it was better than the first book, I still feel like something is missing from this story.
I miss the action because they're talking all the time and comparing everything' every single action with some book. Which is pretty annoying. I just find it hard to stay focused on thy story or even interested in it.
.
I also pretty much like Woolsey Scott he's cool. Can we get more?
I miss the action because they're talking all the time and comparing everything' every single action with some book. Which is pretty annoying. I just find it hard to stay focused on thy story or even interested in it.
.
I also pretty much like Woolsey Scott he's cool. Can we get more?
November 12, 2012
4.5
*sighs*
Clockwork Angel, why couldn't you be as awesome as Clockwork Prince?Oh, yeah. Tessa and Jem didn't have a romantic relationship. Clockwork Prince was worth the wait, so worth it. I have no regrets, and I love this book.
I managed to love and hate Clockwork Prince at the same time, simply because the love triangle continues to rip out out my heart and splatter it all over the floor. It's *sobs* so *sobs* unfair.
I'm going to try to not, you know, fangirl over Jem. It's so hard for me, but - haha. I can't do it. I'm still going to fangirl.
Plot
Clockwork Prince continues Tessa's search for the Magister, and the stakes are higher than ever now - if Charlotte is replaced as head of the Institute, who gets kicked to the streets and made a valuable victim? Tessa, darlings. Then, of course, there's that crushing love triangle and action, action, and more action.
Love Triangle / Romance
So, I've never in my life read a book with a love triangle that wasn't blindingly obvious. Alright, that's actually a lie (just one, okay?), but I rarely come across any books with a good love triangle.
I mean, take Twilight, for example. Who thought that she would actually end up with Jacob? Even Jacob's fangirls knew that Bella wouldn't choose Jacob.
By the way... lord, I wouldn't want to kiss Taylor, despite his hotness. Look at the way he puckers his lips. Is he constipated?
The homeless man sleeping under the bridge knew Bella would end up with Edward! It was no surprise - it was a useless, angsty, infuriating shape (get it? get it? a love 'triangle'?) to put in that book.
Wait, holy crap, does he have abs?!
Now, I think that Clockwork Prince owns the damn thing . . . because you don't know who Tessa will end up with. Sure - most of us believe it'll be Will, because he was Tessa's first flame, he 'understands her', he's the badboy, and, like . . . stuff . . .
But, my dilemma? I want both Jem and Will to end up with Tessa – more so, Jem, I admit. But anyone would know Tessa can’t have them both. Too bad.
Actually, just have threesome! Problem solved. Why doesn't anyone think of that? Kid Cudi did.
I love Will. Really, I do. He’s hilarious, and cruel, and a jerk. He loves to read, and he loves poetry, and he's actually very thoughtful and wise. He grew up to fast, and yes - he's horrible to Tessa sometimes.But he has his reasons, and he'd gladly give up his life for her . . .
Like Jem.
Jem stole my heart from the first time, and he hasn’t given it back just yet. I am completely and utterly in love with Jem. Seriously. Just stalk my reviews and comments and stuff, and you'll see that 99% of them are about Jem and my intense, burning love and passion for him, along with various, various other literary boyfriends. But Jem is #1 on my list.
Both are in love with Tessa, and I just want Jem to be happy.
Characters
Clare manages to make amazing, funny, and heartfelt characters in her stories.
Tessa. The girl was okay enough. I honestly remain baffled at how she attracted the attention of the two most amazing guys in the universe, but I love how she has a smartass response to Will's douchy comments.
Jem is quiet, insanely kind, totally polite, and just plain AMAZING. There are no words to describe how loving this guy is. He'd never say a harmful word to anyone (unless he really needs to), and he's just ugh so bloody hot.
Thank you for ruining my chances of ever having a boyfriend, Ms. Clare. You must be so proud.
Will is hysterical and swoon-worthy. You know how a lot of YA authors (read: ALL) claim the new guy is “hot and mysterious”? Yeah, well, darlings, I’ve only known two guys in YA books that are that deserve to be called “hot and mysterious”. That’s Will and Ash.
The more minor characters are mostly are intriguing, and I liked most of them well enough.
But, wait, there's Magnus. MagnusMagnusMagnus, my love. I could read a whole book about this witty, hot, uproarious warlock.
Writing
I'm rather 'meh' about Clare's writing - I like it, I really do, but it's just so purple and metaphor-filled. You could slim down half the book if you just cut out all the similes in that brick. Such writing makes the story hard to follow and rather confusing.
I cracked up several times during Clockwork Prince, and this is why:
“Did you just kiss me?" Will inquired.
Magnus made a slip-second decision. "No."
"I thought-"
"On occasion the aftereffects of the painkilling spells can result in hallucinations of the most bizarre sort."
"Oh," Will said. "How peculiar.”
“Patriotic?” Will looked smug. “I’ll tell you what’s patriotic,” he said. “In honor of my birthplace, I’ve the dragon of Wales tattooed on my—”
One Last Thing . . .
Dear Ms. Clare,
Please don't kill of Jem, or many us us Jem lovers are going to die as well. There will be an outbreak of teen deaths (bitch please, we died of a cracked heart) around the world if he does die, or if Tessa dumps his poorsexy ass. Actually, it would be better if he stays with Tessa. Because it's time the good guy gets the girl. It's always the first guy who meets the girl who ends up with her . . . can you break the cycle? Give him a chance? We don't want Jem to end up with some random female character, or dead.
We just want him and Will happy.
Also, if you do hurt Jem, sorry, but . . .
We'll cut you.Obviously we're just kidding, but seriously. Don't.
I highly recommend THE INFERNAL DEVICES. In my opinion it is a million times better than THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS.
Find this review and more at my blog:
*sighs*
Clockwork Angel, why couldn't you be as awesome as Clockwork Prince?
I managed to love and hate Clockwork Prince at the same time, simply because the love triangle continues to rip out out my heart and splatter it all over the floor. It's *sobs* so *sobs* unfair.
I'm going to try to not, you know, fangirl over Jem. It's so hard for me, but - haha. I can't do it. I'm still going to fangirl.
Plot
Clockwork Prince continues Tessa's search for the Magister, and the stakes are higher than ever now - if Charlotte is replaced as head of the Institute, who gets kicked to the streets and made a valuable victim? Tessa, darlings. Then, of course, there's that crushing love triangle and action, action, and more action.
Love Triangle / Romance
So, I've never in my life read a book with a love triangle that wasn't blindingly obvious. Alright, that's actually a lie (just one, okay?), but I rarely come across any books with a good love triangle.
I mean, take Twilight, for example. Who thought that she would actually end up with Jacob? Even Jacob's fangirls knew that Bella wouldn't choose Jacob.
By the way... lord, I wouldn't want to kiss Taylor, despite his hotness. Look at the way he puckers his lips. Is he constipated?
The homeless man sleeping under the bridge knew Bella would end up with Edward! It was no surprise - it was a useless, angsty, infuriating shape (get it? get it? a love 'triangle'?) to put in that book.
Wait, holy crap, does he have abs?!
Now, I think that Clockwork Prince owns the damn thing . . . because you don't know who Tessa will end up with. Sure - most of us believe it'll be Will, because he was Tessa's first flame, he 'understands her', he's the badboy, and, like . . . stuff . . .
But, my dilemma? I want both Jem and Will to end up with Tessa – more so, Jem, I admit. But anyone would know Tessa can’t have them both. Too bad.
Actually, just have threesome! Problem solved. Why doesn't anyone think of that? Kid Cudi did.
I love Will. Really, I do. He’s hilarious, and cruel, and a jerk. He loves to read, and he loves poetry, and he's actually very thoughtful and wise. He grew up to fast, and yes - he's horrible to Tessa sometimes.But he has his reasons, and he'd gladly give up his life for her . . .
Like Jem.
Jem stole my heart from the first time, and he hasn’t given it back just yet. I am completely and utterly in love with Jem. Seriously. Just stalk my reviews and comments and stuff, and you'll see that 99% of them are about Jem and my intense, burning love and passion for him, along with various, various other literary boyfriends. But Jem is #1 on my list.
Both are in love with Tessa, and I just want Jem to be happy.
Characters
Clare manages to make amazing, funny, and heartfelt characters in her stories.
Tessa. The girl was okay enough. I honestly remain baffled at how she attracted the attention of the two most amazing guys in the universe, but I love how she has a smartass response to Will's douchy comments.
Jem is quiet, insanely kind, totally polite, and just plain AMAZING. There are no words to describe how loving this guy is. He'd never say a harmful word to anyone (unless he really needs to), and he's just ugh so bloody hot.
Thank you for ruining my chances of ever having a boyfriend, Ms. Clare. You must be so proud.
Will is hysterical and swoon-worthy. You know how a lot of YA authors (read: ALL) claim the new guy is “hot and mysterious”? Yeah, well, darlings, I’ve only known two guys in YA books that are that deserve to be called “hot and mysterious”. That’s Will and Ash.
The more minor characters are mostly are intriguing, and I liked most of them well enough.
But, wait, there's Magnus. MagnusMagnusMagnus, my love. I could read a whole book about this witty, hot, uproarious warlock.
Writing
I'm rather 'meh' about Clare's writing - I like it, I really do, but it's just so purple and metaphor-filled. You could slim down half the book if you just cut out all the similes in that brick. Such writing makes the story hard to follow and rather confusing.
I cracked up several times during Clockwork Prince, and this is why:
“Did you just kiss me?" Will inquired.
Magnus made a slip-second decision. "No."
"I thought-"
"On occasion the aftereffects of the painkilling spells can result in hallucinations of the most bizarre sort."
"Oh," Will said. "How peculiar.”
“Patriotic?” Will looked smug. “I’ll tell you what’s patriotic,” he said. “In honor of my birthplace, I’ve the dragon of Wales tattooed on my—”
One Last Thing . . .
Dear Ms. Clare,
Please don't kill of Jem, or many us us Jem lovers are going to die as well. There will be an outbreak of teen deaths (bitch please, we died of a cracked heart) around the world if he does die, or if Tessa dumps his poor
We just want him and Will happy.
Also, if you do hurt Jem, sorry, but . . .
We'll cut you.
I highly recommend THE INFERNAL DEVICES. In my opinion it is a million times better than THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS.
Find this review and more at my blog:
March 17, 2024
4 ⭐️
➢ spoilers are marked
let me first start off by saying HOW HAPPY I AM that i loved this book so much 🤧🤧 i am not a big fan of love triangles (i’m actually part of the love triangles hate committee), so i was pretty nervous going into this, BUT MF CASSIE DELIVERED SO HARD.
this book focuses more on the love triangle, character development, and giving the characters backstories, which i appreciate because i felt like that was missing from book 1, but i do miss the action (and the runes 😫). hopefully book 3 will be a good combination of the two!!
++ you don’t know angst and slow burn until you’ve read about tessa, will, and jem.
tessa gray ꒰ 🪞 ୧ ‧₊˚
i actually hated her in book 1 lmfao. and i don’t fully love her now, but at least i hate her less ?? i love that she’s getting out of her shell now that she knows more about herself/her past, and i love her determination to find out. SPOILERS!! but i think the fact that tessa thinking of will while she is with jem is such a big red flag… yet the two get engaged?? i honestly think tessa hasn’t officially confronted her feelings about either of them. jem 100% deserves better. END OF SPOILERS!!
𓏲 . ˙ ˖ ↷ “if no one in the entire world cared about you, did you really exist at all?”
william herondale ꒰ 🥀 ୧ ‧₊˚
i feel like will really redeemed himself in this book. learning about his childhood and the real reason why he was so rude/ignorant to tessa back in book 1 was honestly super heartbreaking. oh will, shakespeare was inspired to write all his love stories from your words 🙇♀️
SPOILERS!! i anticipated it for a long time, but his official confession at the end was HEARTBREAKING BEYOND BELIEF. he finally poured out his heart and soul just when it was too late :( he immediately shuts down his feelings and makes tessa promise to not tell jem, the one she tessa will marry instead, anything. will values everyone so much, putting them all above his happiness, and in a sense, i feel like i could relate. will wants more than anything for his parabatai to be happy, even if it is at his + his heart’s expense, and that was the saddest thing in this book. END OF SPOILERS!!
𓏲 . ˙ ˖ ↷ “when he saw her, he wanted to be with her; when he was with her, he ached to touch her; when he touched even her hand, he wanted to embrace her. he wanted to sit and listen to her talk about books until his ears fell off. but all these were things he could not want, because they were things he could not have, and wanting what you could not have led to misery and madness.”
jem cairstairs ꒰ 🎻 ୧ ‧₊˚
there is a jem cairstairs shaped hole in my chest rn. i know if i had to choose between the two, i’d choose jem within half of a heartbeat. PLS HE DESERVES SO SO MUCH and i KNOW my heart is gonna break into a million pieces for him in book 3 because he doesn’t deserve tessa and i’m gonna HATE her for whatever he’ll do to her.
𓏲 . ˙ ˖ ↷ “he half-closed his eyes for a moment, and when he opened them, he was smiling crookedly. “james," he said. “ordinany only will calls me that."
“i’m sorry-"
“no. don't be. i like the sound of it on your lips.”
also his terminal illness plotline is ripping me up inside like WTF 😭😭
side characters ꒰🪄୧ ‧₊˚
─ y’all don’t understand the JOY i felt reading “magnus said….” in this book. i was ECSTATIC. i was ALIVE. i was GIGGLING. i don’t even care what he said, he made more than one appearance and that itself is a star.
𓏲 . ˙ ˖ ↷ “who ever said we were owed happiness?" magnus said softly, and in his mind he saw the house of his childhood, and his mother flinching away from him with frightened eyes, and her husband, who was not his father, burning. “what about what we owe to others?"
─ SOPHIE & GIDEON IM LITERALLY CALLING IT
─ can i just say, henry & charlotte ARE SO CUTE. *argressively grabs them and protects them from the world*
─ nate, brother i know you did not just throw your sister under the bus like that. REPEATEDLY. i hope he burns in hell because honestly we could’ve gotten more magnus lines instead of him 🙄🙄
─ jessamine, idk why but i’m growing to like her a bit?? IK WRONG TIMING because i’m a bit nervous for her storyline in book 3, but idk i hope she makes it alive 😭
𓏲 . ˙ ˖ ↷ “you haven't broken his heart yet, have you?"
“no," tessa said. just torn my own in two. “i haven't broken his heart at all."
───────────── ♡𓂃 ࣪ ִֶָ☾.
🪞 ✧ ꒱ pre-review: "when two souls are as one, they stay together on the Wheel. i was born into this world to love you, and i will love you in the next life, and the one after that." WILLIAM HERONDALE 😭😭😭💔💔💔💔
rtc 💌
⚔️ ✧ ꒱ pre-read: FINALLY getting back into the shadow world 🥹❤️🩹 ++ praying to all the angels that i like the second book sm bc book 1 did not hit for me… 😖
➢ spoilers are marked
let me first start off by saying HOW HAPPY I AM that i loved this book so much 🤧🤧 i am not a big fan of love triangles (i’m actually part of the love triangles hate committee), so i was pretty nervous going into this, BUT MF CASSIE DELIVERED SO HARD.
this book focuses more on the love triangle, character development, and giving the characters backstories, which i appreciate because i felt like that was missing from book 1, but i do miss the action (and the runes 😫). hopefully book 3 will be a good combination of the two!!
++ you don’t know angst and slow burn until you’ve read about tessa, will, and jem.
tessa gray ꒰ 🪞 ୧ ‧₊˚
i actually hated her in book 1 lmfao. and i don’t fully love her now, but at least i hate her less ?? i love that she’s getting out of her shell now that she knows more about herself/her past, and i love her determination to find out. SPOILERS!! but i think the fact that tessa thinking of will while she is with jem is such a big red flag… yet the two get engaged?? i honestly think tessa hasn’t officially confronted her feelings about either of them. jem 100% deserves better. END OF SPOILERS!!
𓏲 . ˙ ˖ ↷ “if no one in the entire world cared about you, did you really exist at all?”
william herondale ꒰ 🥀 ୧ ‧₊˚
i feel like will really redeemed himself in this book. learning about his childhood and the real reason why he was so rude/ignorant to tessa back in book 1 was honestly super heartbreaking. oh will, shakespeare was inspired to write all his love stories from your words 🙇♀️
SPOILERS!! i anticipated it for a long time, but his official confession at the end was HEARTBREAKING BEYOND BELIEF. he finally poured out his heart and soul just when it was too late :( he immediately shuts down his feelings and makes tessa promise to not tell jem, the one she tessa will marry instead, anything. will values everyone so much, putting them all above his happiness, and in a sense, i feel like i could relate. will wants more than anything for his parabatai to be happy, even if it is at his + his heart’s expense, and that was the saddest thing in this book. END OF SPOILERS!!
𓏲 . ˙ ˖ ↷ “when he saw her, he wanted to be with her; when he was with her, he ached to touch her; when he touched even her hand, he wanted to embrace her. he wanted to sit and listen to her talk about books until his ears fell off. but all these were things he could not want, because they were things he could not have, and wanting what you could not have led to misery and madness.”
jem cairstairs ꒰ 🎻 ୧ ‧₊˚
there is a jem cairstairs shaped hole in my chest rn. i know if i had to choose between the two, i’d choose jem within half of a heartbeat. PLS HE DESERVES SO SO MUCH and i KNOW my heart is gonna break into a million pieces for him in book 3 because he doesn’t deserve tessa and i’m gonna HATE her for whatever he’ll do to her.
𓏲 . ˙ ˖ ↷ “he half-closed his eyes for a moment, and when he opened them, he was smiling crookedly. “james," he said. “ordinany only will calls me that."
“i’m sorry-"
“no. don't be. i like the sound of it on your lips.”
also his terminal illness plotline is ripping me up inside like WTF 😭😭
side characters ꒰🪄୧ ‧₊˚
─ y’all don’t understand the JOY i felt reading “magnus said….” in this book. i was ECSTATIC. i was ALIVE. i was GIGGLING. i don’t even care what he said, he made more than one appearance and that itself is a star.
𓏲 . ˙ ˖ ↷ “who ever said we were owed happiness?" magnus said softly, and in his mind he saw the house of his childhood, and his mother flinching away from him with frightened eyes, and her husband, who was not his father, burning. “what about what we owe to others?"
─ SOPHIE & GIDEON IM LITERALLY CALLING IT
─ can i just say, henry & charlotte ARE SO CUTE. *argressively grabs them and protects them from the world*
─ nate, brother i know you did not just throw your sister under the bus like that. REPEATEDLY. i hope he burns in hell because honestly we could’ve gotten more magnus lines instead of him 🙄🙄
─ jessamine, idk why but i’m growing to like her a bit?? IK WRONG TIMING because i’m a bit nervous for her storyline in book 3, but idk i hope she makes it alive 😭
𓏲 . ˙ ˖ ↷ “you haven't broken his heart yet, have you?"
“no," tessa said. just torn my own in two. “i haven't broken his heart at all."
───────────── ♡𓂃 ࣪ ִֶָ☾.
🪞 ✧ ꒱ pre-review: "when two souls are as one, they stay together on the Wheel. i was born into this world to love you, and i will love you in the next life, and the one after that." WILLIAM HERONDALE 😭😭😭💔💔💔💔
rtc 💌
⚔️ ✧ ꒱ pre-read: FINALLY getting back into the shadow world 🥹❤️🩹 ++ praying to all the angels that i like the second book sm bc book 1 did not hit for me… 😖
August 8, 2022
"We had an Irish cook once when I was a boy. Potato pie, potato custard, potatoes with potato sauce..."
This is going to come off as the same rant I've made after first three books of MI, but I don't know what else to say. It felt like the same thing for the most part in a different time line, with a different set of names. Another annoying love triangle, and another set of uninterestingly obvious characters. Take away the romance, the repetitive facial descriptions of the same people over and over again, and you end up with a very simple and short story without even a strong main plot.
At least Mortal Instruments had a bit of mystery and suspense going for it, with the concept of shadowhunters being new and everything, but I couldn't see Infernal Devices any other way than the same thing wrapped up differently. When it comes to fantasy, there should be a certain amount logic behind things, especially when used tech-aspects to have at least some adherence to timelines. Clare had thrown both out of window. Sure, such 'unbelievable' imagination could work in favor at times, but it certainly didn't work here. There was simply no harmony between different aspects of the plot, and the author had gone for sheer entertainment over quality.
I've come to the world of Shadowhunters from Jack Vance's Lyonesse, which had been the best surprise of the year for me, only to find the best disappointment in Cassandra Clare's MI and ID. Still, I've kept going through this trilogy as well, albeit with a lot of skimming over the romance parts, and still haven't completely convinced myself to given up on the author. Hopefully the Red Scrolls of Magic will be a turning point, but at the moment, it feels like wishful thinking.
This is going to come off as the same rant I've made after first three books of MI, but I don't know what else to say. It felt like the same thing for the most part in a different time line, with a different set of names. Another annoying love triangle, and another set of uninterestingly obvious characters. Take away the romance, the repetitive facial descriptions of the same people over and over again, and you end up with a very simple and short story without even a strong main plot.
At least Mortal Instruments had a bit of mystery and suspense going for it, with the concept of shadowhunters being new and everything, but I couldn't see Infernal Devices any other way than the same thing wrapped up differently. When it comes to fantasy, there should be a certain amount logic behind things, especially when used tech-aspects to have at least some adherence to timelines. Clare had thrown both out of window. Sure, such 'unbelievable' imagination could work in favor at times, but it certainly didn't work here. There was simply no harmony between different aspects of the plot, and the author had gone for sheer entertainment over quality.
I've come to the world of Shadowhunters from Jack Vance's Lyonesse, which had been the best surprise of the year for me, only to find the best disappointment in Cassandra Clare's MI and ID. Still, I've kept going through this trilogy as well, albeit with a lot of skimming over the romance parts, and still haven't completely convinced myself to given up on the author. Hopefully the Red Scrolls of Magic will be a turning point, but at the moment, it feels like wishful thinking.
July 5, 2015
Good God, this book has created quite the set-up for Clockwork Princess! It has all the makings of a brilliantly crafted tragic love story, and I CANNOT WAIT to find out what happens next! I don't even care that the main villain didn't even make an appearance, this love triangle has me so enthralled XD
Bring on the feels!!!
Bring on the feels!!!
March 20, 2016
Compelling plot-line: ✓
Superfluous mention of characters' eye colors: ✓
Demon pox: ✓
Romantic relationships galore: ✓
Character development: ✓✓✓✓✓
Superfluous mention of characters' eye colors: ✓
Demon pox: ✓
Romantic relationships galore: ✓
Character development: ✓✓✓✓✓
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