Review: Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

Goodreads Summary:

Magic is dangerous—but love is more dangerous still.

When sixteen-year-old Tessa Gray crosses the ocean to find her brother, her destination is England, the time is the reign of Queen Victoria, and something terrifying is waiting for her in London's Downworld, where vampires, warlocks and other supernatural folk stalk the gaslit streets. Only the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons, keep order amidst the chaos.

Kidnapped by the mysterious Dark Sisters, members of a secret organization called The Pandemonium Club, Tessa soon learns that she herself is a Downworlder with a rare ability: the power to transform, at will, into another person. What’s more, the Magister, the shadowy figure who runs the Club, will stop at nothing to claim Tessa's power for his own.

Friendless and hunted, Tessa takes refuge with the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, who swear to find her brother if she will use her power to help them. She soon finds herself fascinated by—and torn between—two best friends: James, whose fragile beauty hides a deadly secret, and blue-eyed Will, whose caustic wit and volatile moods keep everyone in his life at arm's length . . . everyone, that is, but Tessa. As their search draws them deep into the heart of an arcane plot that threatens to destroy the Shadowhunters, Tessa realizes that she may need to choose between saving her brother and helping her new friends save the world. . . . and that love may be the most dangerous magic of all.

Publication Date: August 31, 2010

I had delayed reading this book for a long time because I had mixed feelings over The Mortal Instruments series. I read the first book and although I liked the plot, I didn’t feel a major connection to the characters. Clockwork Angel was a far better read in my opinion and I really fell in love with Tessa, Will and Jem.

The action starts immediately in Clockwork Angel and the mysteries begin to build. I was eager to find out what happened to Tessa’s brother and also uncover the secrets surrounding Will and Jem. I loved the bromance thing the boys had going on as well as their individual interactions with Tessa.

Will was certainly a swoonworthy YA male lead. He’s arrogant, handsome and mysterious. I liked Jem, but I felt Will’s character dominated every scene he was in. I melted during a few scenes between him and Tessa.

The setting was intriguing as the different powers of the Shadowhunters and Downworlders are introduced. It was interesting to read about the politics of the different groups and how order was maintained in this world of magic. The Magister was a good pick as a villain and his acts towards humans and Shadowhunters were chilling.

I would highly recommend this book to fans of fantasy and steampunk. I’m hoping to start the sequel soon since I’m dying to know what happens between Tessa and Will.

 

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars