Barbara S. (barbsis) -
Helpful Score: 2
It jumps right into the story and oh what a beginning. Tessa is kidnapped by two old ladies who force her to Change and then attempt to foist her off on the Magister. Lucky for Tessa, she is rescued from the evil sisters by Will and his gang of Shadowhunters. All of this in the first 50 pages, just imagine what will happen in the next 428!
Tessa is brought to the Institute along with Will, Jem and the others. Tessa is not a Shadowhunter but quickly finds herself drawn to both Jem and Will. Jem is an enigma, surprisingly insightful and mature for a teenager. On the other hand, Will is a complete mystery. He flashes hot and cold without apparent reason.
The story is filled with danger for the Shadowhunters and Tessa specifically. She is something different and special that the Magister will do anything to possess. The Shadowhunters are drawn into a war against the vampires, demons, warlocks and even an automaton army. This is action packed from start to finish. An interesting novel with something different from the typical urban fantasy offerings. I do wonder why Will ends up at Magnus Bane's door. hmmm, interesting development.
Tessa is brought to the Institute along with Will, Jem and the others. Tessa is not a Shadowhunter but quickly finds herself drawn to both Jem and Will. Jem is an enigma, surprisingly insightful and mature for a teenager. On the other hand, Will is a complete mystery. He flashes hot and cold without apparent reason.
The story is filled with danger for the Shadowhunters and Tessa specifically. She is something different and special that the Magister will do anything to possess. The Shadowhunters are drawn into a war against the vampires, demons, warlocks and even an automaton army. This is action packed from start to finish. An interesting novel with something different from the typical urban fantasy offerings. I do wonder why Will ends up at Magnus Bane's door. hmmm, interesting development.
Helpful Score: 1
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. (part of summary from book)
It all starts with Will Hereondale, and Jem (James)Carstairs. Will, with his deep striking blue eyes and black hair (sound familiar? Like Alec maybe??) , with a personality very much like Jace Herondale (Lightwood/Wayland) So, we wonder if Jace is indeed related to Will, most of us think so, but you can decide for yourself. With Will we do get glimpses of when he is at his most vulnerable and makes you feel for him. There's just something holding him back from opening up to people, hopefully that will be explained further in the trilogy. Jem is the complete opposite of Will. He is so kind and loving and poetic with his words--really insightful. I could see Tessa falling for him eventually if Will doesn't get his act together.
Clockwork Angel is the first in Cassandra Clare's new Infernal Devices Trilogy, it's very descriptive, and enjoyable. I am sure it will be another knockout trilogy. It's set in the Victorian era, and takes about 30-40 pages I would say, to get to some familiar ground that we all would be looking for. But when it does, it takes off, and sucks you into the world of Shadowhunters in the 1800's London. You will get to know many ancestors of the current characters in The Mortal Instruments. Cassandra manages to sneak in plenty of humor alongside some of the darker and riskier action scenes. Will, is so witty, and fun, but so broken too, again you really do feel for him. There are many mysteries and secretes to these new characters, and for Tessa it is her heritage, and Will and Jem both have hazy backgrounds, that raise many questions. I am sure we will discover them as the next books come out, as I believe they are to become bigger issues later on.
Tessa's humor is dry and clever, and very funny. The way she can "handle" Will is pretty fun to read. There is a joke in there about a seven fingered dwarf named Nigel that cracked me up, had me laughing out loud, and embarrassing myself when reading that part in public. Lol
I thoroughly enjoyed Tessa, especially watching her mature and break free of the ideals for women in this era. She opens her eyes and understands that women are capable of more than swooning, batting of eyelashes and all the other delicate habits of the female persuasion in the 1800s. She learns to fight and stand up for herself. Very nice, strong lead character for sure.
I love that Magnus Bane and Camille are in this series, they are immortal after all. We get to learn more about Magnus, which is interesting.
Now, the Clockwork creatures were pretty scary, certainly far more frightening than their creator and master, who I was really disappointed in.
Magnus Bane is totally fabulous and I really enjoyed the witty banter between the two main characters.
I also loved that Church the cat, was alive in the 1800's , and Jem and Will were the ones to "rescue" him from some evil warlocks. So it gives us another mystery around Church, and how he is alive still, and how he ended up in the New York Institute in TMI.
Overall, it's a great read, a great new series, which ties nicely into TMI (The Mortal Instruments) series. But, still separate. I recommend anyone who liked TMI series, to read this one, you will not be sorry.
If you have not read any of the TMI books, that's ok, you can start with this series if you like. It's really a prequel to TMI anyway, but not something that HAS to be read to enjoy TMI.
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. (part of summary from book)
It all starts with Will Hereondale, and Jem (James)Carstairs. Will, with his deep striking blue eyes and black hair (sound familiar? Like Alec maybe??) , with a personality very much like Jace Herondale (Lightwood/Wayland) So, we wonder if Jace is indeed related to Will, most of us think so, but you can decide for yourself. With Will we do get glimpses of when he is at his most vulnerable and makes you feel for him. There's just something holding him back from opening up to people, hopefully that will be explained further in the trilogy. Jem is the complete opposite of Will. He is so kind and loving and poetic with his words--really insightful. I could see Tessa falling for him eventually if Will doesn't get his act together.
Clockwork Angel is the first in Cassandra Clare's new Infernal Devices Trilogy, it's very descriptive, and enjoyable. I am sure it will be another knockout trilogy. It's set in the Victorian era, and takes about 30-40 pages I would say, to get to some familiar ground that we all would be looking for. But when it does, it takes off, and sucks you into the world of Shadowhunters in the 1800's London. You will get to know many ancestors of the current characters in The Mortal Instruments. Cassandra manages to sneak in plenty of humor alongside some of the darker and riskier action scenes. Will, is so witty, and fun, but so broken too, again you really do feel for him. There are many mysteries and secretes to these new characters, and for Tessa it is her heritage, and Will and Jem both have hazy backgrounds, that raise many questions. I am sure we will discover them as the next books come out, as I believe they are to become bigger issues later on.
Tessa's humor is dry and clever, and very funny. The way she can "handle" Will is pretty fun to read. There is a joke in there about a seven fingered dwarf named Nigel that cracked me up, had me laughing out loud, and embarrassing myself when reading that part in public. Lol
I thoroughly enjoyed Tessa, especially watching her mature and break free of the ideals for women in this era. She opens her eyes and understands that women are capable of more than swooning, batting of eyelashes and all the other delicate habits of the female persuasion in the 1800s. She learns to fight and stand up for herself. Very nice, strong lead character for sure.
I love that Magnus Bane and Camille are in this series, they are immortal after all. We get to learn more about Magnus, which is interesting.
Now, the Clockwork creatures were pretty scary, certainly far more frightening than their creator and master, who I was really disappointed in.
Magnus Bane is totally fabulous and I really enjoyed the witty banter between the two main characters.
I also loved that Church the cat, was alive in the 1800's , and Jem and Will were the ones to "rescue" him from some evil warlocks. So it gives us another mystery around Church, and how he is alive still, and how he ended up in the New York Institute in TMI.
Overall, it's a great read, a great new series, which ties nicely into TMI (The Mortal Instruments) series. But, still separate. I recommend anyone who liked TMI series, to read this one, you will not be sorry.
If you have not read any of the TMI books, that's ok, you can start with this series if you like. It's really a prequel to TMI anyway, but not something that HAS to be read to enjoy TMI.
Jennifer W. (GeniusJen) reviewed Clockwork Angel (Infernal Devices, Bk 1) on + 5322 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Reviewed by Joan Stradling for TeensReadToo.com
Tessa goes to England to find her brother and ends up being kidnapped by the strange and mysterious Dark Sisters. As members of a secret organization, the Pandemonium Club, the sisters have a plan for Tessa and force her to experiment with a power she didn't even know she had; the power to transform into another person.
The Shadowhunters rescue Tessa and she finds herself drawn into their world of demon hunting. Her search to save her brother uncovers a plot that may destroy the world. Tessa and her new friends will put their lives in danger as they struggle to overthrow the evil forces.
This prequel to THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS series is full of beautiful prose and exciting adventure that pulls the reader into Victorian England and holds them there long after they close the book.
The twists and turns of the plot kept me guessing, hoping, longing, and ultimately satisfied. I loved CLOCKWORK ANGEL and can't wait for the next book in THE INFERNAL DEVICES series.
Tessa goes to England to find her brother and ends up being kidnapped by the strange and mysterious Dark Sisters. As members of a secret organization, the Pandemonium Club, the sisters have a plan for Tessa and force her to experiment with a power she didn't even know she had; the power to transform into another person.
The Shadowhunters rescue Tessa and she finds herself drawn into their world of demon hunting. Her search to save her brother uncovers a plot that may destroy the world. Tessa and her new friends will put their lives in danger as they struggle to overthrow the evil forces.
This prequel to THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS series is full of beautiful prose and exciting adventure that pulls the reader into Victorian England and holds them there long after they close the book.
The twists and turns of the plot kept me guessing, hoping, longing, and ultimately satisfied. I loved CLOCKWORK ANGEL and can't wait for the next book in THE INFERNAL DEVICES series.
Helpful Score: 1
I'm a fan of The Mortal Instruments series. Not classic lit, but good fun, so I thought I'd give this one a try. It was an ok-attempt at Victorian writing from a modern author, but I didn't really *feel* the era in the spoken words or thoughts of the characters much. I also thought that it was a bit too similar to the Mortal Instruments: lead female protagonist meets people in an institute: one snooty gal and two hunky guys. Oh, wait, guy # 2 is into her too, so that's different. A little disappointed but I will continue the series just to see Magnus again. :)
Once again, found the secondary characters often more entertaining than the primary. But that didn't steal focus of the primary characters... simply put it them a little bit to shame
Frances P. (franniekin) - , reviewed Clockwork Angel (Infernal Devices, Bk 1) on + 276 more book reviews
I was into it from the first page. The book is creepy, strange, quirky and completely charming. The characters are well drawn and unusual. No one is really what they seem. Lots of twists and turns with a bit of confusing romance. Very fun to read.
Frances P. (franniekin) - , reviewed Clockwork Angel (Infernal Devices, Bk 1) on + 276 more book reviews
Beautifully written prose taking the reader on a wild dangerous ride through Victorian England. Deeply written fascinating characters. First love that doesn't get a real chance to grow. Betrayal, loss and finding friends that can care for you no matter what or who you are.
My one complaint is that two of the characters seem to simply be a rehash of Clary and Jace, but like the Mortal Instrument series, the side characters were amazing and entertaining.
I can't believe I waited so long to read Clockwork Angel. Telling you that it is a captivating beyond breathtaking read barely expresses how much I fell in love with the world and the characters Cassandra Clare has created.
I would love to sit here and talk about every single character in the book since they all were remarkable in their own way but i'll just stick with the three main Tessa, Will and Jem.
I didn't know what to think of Tessa, but as the plot progressed not only did I learn she is a book lover but she is her own person. She does not sit back and just let things happen. She takes action and is not afraid to express herself.
Will, now he is a character I should dislike because of how harsh he is towards Tessa, but I can't help it I love him. We barely get a grasp of who and what he is about. I'm really eager to continue the series just to find out what happened in his past that has made him so "untouchable." The only person that gets through to him is Jem and of course now Tessa.
Jem, oh sweet Jem. I adore him. He is the complete opposite of Will. He is kind, humble, and not afraid to show Tessa he cares for her.
If someone asked me to pick between Will and Jem I would seriously be torn between the two. They are both amazing characters in their own way.
Clockwork Angel has definitely made my list of books to re-read. Usually I read a book - like it and then never pick it up again, but this is one of the rare ones where I will thrust myself into it's world over and over again.
I would love to sit here and talk about every single character in the book since they all were remarkable in their own way but i'll just stick with the three main Tessa, Will and Jem.
I didn't know what to think of Tessa, but as the plot progressed not only did I learn she is a book lover but she is her own person. She does not sit back and just let things happen. She takes action and is not afraid to express herself.
Will, now he is a character I should dislike because of how harsh he is towards Tessa, but I can't help it I love him. We barely get a grasp of who and what he is about. I'm really eager to continue the series just to find out what happened in his past that has made him so "untouchable." The only person that gets through to him is Jem and of course now Tessa.
Jem, oh sweet Jem. I adore him. He is the complete opposite of Will. He is kind, humble, and not afraid to show Tessa he cares for her.
If someone asked me to pick between Will and Jem I would seriously be torn between the two. They are both amazing characters in their own way.
Clockwork Angel has definitely made my list of books to re-read. Usually I read a book - like it and then never pick it up again, but this is one of the rare ones where I will thrust myself into it's world over and over again.
This being the first Cassandra Clare book for me, I had no idea what to expect. I was mildly surprised and very impressed! While there are some obvious similarities to other books like the Harry Potter series, "Clockwork.." does a very nice job of keeping it fresh and interesting. The setting of 19th century England creates a unique and creative twist to the glut of fantasy/paranormal plot lines. The characters are young, acting annoyingly irresponsible at times - as teenagers of any age would do - and the suspense, while not completely surprising, keeps one entertained and reading. The biggest downside is that all is left somewhat hanging with over a year to wait for the sequel.
A great book i thought its was one the best books I have read in 4ever
This is a prequel to the Mortal Instruments Series whcih takes place in Victorian London. The story line features Will, an independent young Shadowhunter with a chip on his shoulder, Jem (James) whose illness will eventually lead to his death and Tess, an American who discovers that she is a shape-changer. Is she even human? Lured to London by her brother, Nate who sends her tickets and letters, she is pursued by demons who appear to answer to someone known as Magister. Strange automatons attack mundanes and Shadowhunters alike in pursuit of Tess. The story unfolds in ways the reader cannot guess and Tess finds herself face-to-face with Magister. This is a most intriguing tale with new twists from the imaginative Cassandra Clare whose fertile imagination once again leads the reader into an entertaining reading experience. Well done, Ms. Clare!
Barbara F. (mama2timmy-daphne) reviewed Clockwork Angel (Infernal Devices, Bk 1) on + 35 more book reviews
Clockwork Angel is the first installment of The Infernal Devices series, a precursor to The Mortal Instruments series. The story is set in London in 1878 and it revolves around a young woman named Tessa & the London conclave of Shadowhunters. Tessa comes to London from New York to live with her brother Nathaniel, her only remaining relative. Upon arrival, she is taken by the Dark Sisters, who claim to have Nathaniel imprisoned, and is forced to comply with the Dark Sisters wishes in order to save her brother. Tessa learns that she has a very rare and unusual ability, one that is highly prized by members of a world she never even knew existed. She is rescued from the Dark Sisters by Will Herondale, a Shadowhunter, and is brought to the Institute where she meets Charlotte, Henry, Jessamine and Jem, all Shadowhunters. She is also befriended by the help, Agatha, Thomas & Sophie, who all have the Sight, which sets them apart from other humans, known as mundanes. Tessa adjusts to this new world and her new abilities rather well, perhaps out of necessity to retain her sanity, and does her best to aid her new friends in their attempt to bring down The Magister, the head of the notorious Pandemonium Club, a group of mundanes & Downworlders that is killing humans. Along the way, Tessa is thrown into a world of Shadowhunters, warlocks, vampires, werewolves and other beings she only believed existed in fairy tales. She finds out that her life is truly not as she thought: her brother, her parents & her Aunt Harriet seemed to be knowledgeable about her abilities, and yet all was kept from Tessa, presumably to keep her safe. She does not learn the truth of her existence, but as there are two planned sequels, one can not expect to find all the answers in a single volume.
Tessa also learns that her new friends, soon to become her second family, have secrets as well. Jem's unusual appearance and mysterious illness are explained later in the story, but there seems to be more to Jem's family and background that has yet to be explored. How Will came to be at the Institute and his reasons for keeping everyone, including Jem, at arm's length are barely touched upon. Jessamine's family, too, seems to hold secrets, as she, like everyone at the Institute, is an orphan and under mysterious circumstances.
Readers of The Mortal Instruments series will find some familiar names in the story. Benedict and Gabriel Lightwood are, most likely, ancestors of the Lightwood family found in the modern series. Will is Herondale, most likely an ancestor of Jace. We also find Magnus Bane in this series. Personally, Magnus is a favorite of mine from The Mortal Instruments series and I look forward to learning more about him in The Infernal Devices.
I really enjoyed this book. I particularly enjoyed how the women are not portrayed as typical of the time period. Even Jessamine, who is determined to leave the Institute and live as a lady should, is fully trained and capable of combat. Charlotte runs the Institute on her own and Tessa, sheltered her whole life, seems to find her inner strength and courage as the story progresses. Although I am not generally a fan of 'historical' fiction, Clare seems to use the time and place setting as merely the background for the story, without imposing the rules of polite society to the point of restraining her characters. I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of the next book in the series, Clockwork Prince, scheduled to be released in September 2011.
Follow my book review blog at: www.readerbarbara.blogspot.com
Tessa also learns that her new friends, soon to become her second family, have secrets as well. Jem's unusual appearance and mysterious illness are explained later in the story, but there seems to be more to Jem's family and background that has yet to be explored. How Will came to be at the Institute and his reasons for keeping everyone, including Jem, at arm's length are barely touched upon. Jessamine's family, too, seems to hold secrets, as she, like everyone at the Institute, is an orphan and under mysterious circumstances.
Readers of The Mortal Instruments series will find some familiar names in the story. Benedict and Gabriel Lightwood are, most likely, ancestors of the Lightwood family found in the modern series. Will is Herondale, most likely an ancestor of Jace. We also find Magnus Bane in this series. Personally, Magnus is a favorite of mine from The Mortal Instruments series and I look forward to learning more about him in The Infernal Devices.
I really enjoyed this book. I particularly enjoyed how the women are not portrayed as typical of the time period. Even Jessamine, who is determined to leave the Institute and live as a lady should, is fully trained and capable of combat. Charlotte runs the Institute on her own and Tessa, sheltered her whole life, seems to find her inner strength and courage as the story progresses. Although I am not generally a fan of 'historical' fiction, Clare seems to use the time and place setting as merely the background for the story, without imposing the rules of polite society to the point of restraining her characters. I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of the next book in the series, Clockwork Prince, scheduled to be released in September 2011.
Follow my book review blog at: www.readerbarbara.blogspot.com
Tessa is on her way to London to find her brother. What she doesn't expect to find is being kidnapped and tortured by two hideous psychos and thrown into a world she never knew existed. Suddenly she has this unknown power and the Dark Sisters are forcing her to learn how to harness it, even though it causes her immense pain. And to top it all off, they've promised her to some guy they keep calling The Magister and all she knows about him is that he wants her, power and all. How did she get herself into this mess? And being so far from home, how will she ever get out of it?
I was a little skeptical of this series at first. I'd heard mixed reviews but most of them said that it doesn't compare to the Mortal Instruments series. To me that's both right and wrong. It isn't as good (so far) as those books, but they really shouldn't be compared. This series is the prequel. There may be some similar things and topics and people (like my favorite person in the fiction world, MAGNUS) but this is what happened before the Mortal Instruments. This was a different time in a different situation. I thought this book was fabulous! The only thing making me rate it a 4 instead of a 5 is that I'm not a steampunk fan just yet. Granted this is only the second book I've read in the genre, but the whole concept turns me off. I know, you want to punch me in the face. But hey, this is my opinion.
Aside from the steampunk characteristics, I thought Clare did an outstanding job with this book. She always has a way with words that makes it possible to imagine that you're in this world with her characters. You know the surroundings, you understand what they're feeling, and you're right there with them in whatever they're going through. Cassandra Clare is a phenomenal writer and I think it's great that she created this prequel series. Now we can find out what happened prior to the world revolving around Jace.
I liked pretty much every character in this book. I didn't overly obsess over anyone except for Magnus, but everyone was very likeable. Tessa has a book fetish which is awesome. As a book lover, I love reading about characters who love books too. It helps me relate to them better, and I pretty much assume they're cooler than anyone else that pops up. If I had to choose between Will and Jem for the affection of Tessa I'd go with Jem. While I do like a guy with confidence, Will has entirely too much of it for my taste. Jem is a gentle soul with a soft hand. He may be frail but his heart is strong enough make up for that.
I'm really bummed that I don't have the next installment of this series right now. I usually don't start a series unless I have every book in it because the anticipation kills me, but I'll just have to suffer on this one. I will try to read the next one before Clockwork Princess comes out in the near future though. This series has captured me just like the first, and Cassandra Clare will stay at the top of my list of amazing authors. Now... who's ready for the City of Bones movie next August?
I was a little skeptical of this series at first. I'd heard mixed reviews but most of them said that it doesn't compare to the Mortal Instruments series. To me that's both right and wrong. It isn't as good (so far) as those books, but they really shouldn't be compared. This series is the prequel. There may be some similar things and topics and people (like my favorite person in the fiction world, MAGNUS) but this is what happened before the Mortal Instruments. This was a different time in a different situation. I thought this book was fabulous! The only thing making me rate it a 4 instead of a 5 is that I'm not a steampunk fan just yet. Granted this is only the second book I've read in the genre, but the whole concept turns me off. I know, you want to punch me in the face. But hey, this is my opinion.
Aside from the steampunk characteristics, I thought Clare did an outstanding job with this book. She always has a way with words that makes it possible to imagine that you're in this world with her characters. You know the surroundings, you understand what they're feeling, and you're right there with them in whatever they're going through. Cassandra Clare is a phenomenal writer and I think it's great that she created this prequel series. Now we can find out what happened prior to the world revolving around Jace.
I liked pretty much every character in this book. I didn't overly obsess over anyone except for Magnus, but everyone was very likeable. Tessa has a book fetish which is awesome. As a book lover, I love reading about characters who love books too. It helps me relate to them better, and I pretty much assume they're cooler than anyone else that pops up. If I had to choose between Will and Jem for the affection of Tessa I'd go with Jem. While I do like a guy with confidence, Will has entirely too much of it for my taste. Jem is a gentle soul with a soft hand. He may be frail but his heart is strong enough make up for that.
I'm really bummed that I don't have the next installment of this series right now. I usually don't start a series unless I have every book in it because the anticipation kills me, but I'll just have to suffer on this one. I will try to read the next one before Clockwork Princess comes out in the near future though. This series has captured me just like the first, and Cassandra Clare will stay at the top of my list of amazing authors. Now... who's ready for the City of Bones movie next August?
Stephanie S. (skywriter319) -
CLOCKWORK ANGEL is the first book in Cassandra Clares highly anticipated new series, The Infernal Devices, sort of a prequel to the Mortal Instruments series. It delivers Clares now-signature mix of gritty urban fantasy, fights, witty banter, and love triangles, and, while theres nothing really new about the setup, it will still satisfy TMI fans, and is one of those rare books that I know will get better with subsequent guilty-pleasure rereadings.
Theres a decent amount of good to be said about all of Cassandra Clares books. Technically, not that much happens in the 400 or so pages her books span, but you dont realize it because youre so caught up in the drama and the smirk-inducing dialogue that makes you wish you had thought of that quip yourself. Her books dont have the depth that the setup has the potential forthere is a LOT of political discussion that could surround the Shadowhunter/Downworlder dynamicbutat least for methe love triangle and the dialogue are typically so well done that I dont even care that the potential for deeper issues isnt explored.
CLOCKWORK ANGEL follows in this mold. The first 100 or so pages were frustrating for me because, Ill be honest here, I read Clares books for the love triangle and the snark, and it was mostly just Tessa being damsel-in-distress-y at the clutches of the nefarious Dark Sisters. Then suddenly it was Page 200 and Im wondering, Did anything actually happen, or was I once again seduced by Wills quips into not noticing that little has happened by way of plot so far?
The actual plot of CLOCKWORK ANGEL unfolds almost painfully slowly, if we were to actually examine it. Like in the Mortal Instruments series, the villain of the book, the Magister, retains a status of villainy that never fully manifests into true villainy. Like Valentine, the Magister is the villain mostly because all of the other characters insist that he is and whisper fearfully about him. I suppose, though, that this is part of my emotional disconnect from the book, in that reading it felt, for me, like watching a silly-good TV show in which everyone says funny things, and drama happens, but then I shut off the TV and their voices go quiet in my head.
This is not at all saying that this is a bad book, not at all! CLOCKWORK ANGEL is good at what it is: a sinfully entertaining paranormal series with lots of flashy fights and swoony romances. Will is too similar to Jace in his humor and mannerisms for me to actually crush on him (Jace is number one in my heart, after all), but Jems genuine (at least, lets hope its genuine) sensitivity towards Tessas endears him to me. The main female character is once again a breathless ninny inclined to shrieks and rescues, but hey, whatever, okay, if it floats your boat.
CLOCKWORK ANGEL once again displays Cassandra Clares writing strengths: snarky humor and swoon-worthy (albeit a bit predictably so) guys. Comparison to the Mortal Instruments series is inevitable, and there are a troubling number of similarities between the two books so far. Im hoping there will begin to be differences in the next installment, but meanwhile, Im keeping this on my shelf to reread whenever I need some smile-inducing, flutters-in-my-stomach pick-me-up reads.
Theres a decent amount of good to be said about all of Cassandra Clares books. Technically, not that much happens in the 400 or so pages her books span, but you dont realize it because youre so caught up in the drama and the smirk-inducing dialogue that makes you wish you had thought of that quip yourself. Her books dont have the depth that the setup has the potential forthere is a LOT of political discussion that could surround the Shadowhunter/Downworlder dynamicbutat least for methe love triangle and the dialogue are typically so well done that I dont even care that the potential for deeper issues isnt explored.
CLOCKWORK ANGEL follows in this mold. The first 100 or so pages were frustrating for me because, Ill be honest here, I read Clares books for the love triangle and the snark, and it was mostly just Tessa being damsel-in-distress-y at the clutches of the nefarious Dark Sisters. Then suddenly it was Page 200 and Im wondering, Did anything actually happen, or was I once again seduced by Wills quips into not noticing that little has happened by way of plot so far?
The actual plot of CLOCKWORK ANGEL unfolds almost painfully slowly, if we were to actually examine it. Like in the Mortal Instruments series, the villain of the book, the Magister, retains a status of villainy that never fully manifests into true villainy. Like Valentine, the Magister is the villain mostly because all of the other characters insist that he is and whisper fearfully about him. I suppose, though, that this is part of my emotional disconnect from the book, in that reading it felt, for me, like watching a silly-good TV show in which everyone says funny things, and drama happens, but then I shut off the TV and their voices go quiet in my head.
This is not at all saying that this is a bad book, not at all! CLOCKWORK ANGEL is good at what it is: a sinfully entertaining paranormal series with lots of flashy fights and swoony romances. Will is too similar to Jace in his humor and mannerisms for me to actually crush on him (Jace is number one in my heart, after all), but Jems genuine (at least, lets hope its genuine) sensitivity towards Tessas endears him to me. The main female character is once again a breathless ninny inclined to shrieks and rescues, but hey, whatever, okay, if it floats your boat.
CLOCKWORK ANGEL once again displays Cassandra Clares writing strengths: snarky humor and swoon-worthy (albeit a bit predictably so) guys. Comparison to the Mortal Instruments series is inevitable, and there are a troubling number of similarities between the two books so far. Im hoping there will begin to be differences in the next installment, but meanwhile, Im keeping this on my shelf to reread whenever I need some smile-inducing, flutters-in-my-stomach pick-me-up reads.
Christine H. (solarawynn) reviewed Clockwork Angel (Infernal Devices, Bk 1) on + 724 more book reviews
Was very intersting,enjoyed it alot
I absolutely LOVE this series. Right from the start this book had me. I had already read the Mortal Instruments series and with this being in the same world I was going in expecting great things. I was not disappointed. There are so many emotions that I went through with the characters that I could not put it down. I read it straight through in one day. If you've read the Mortal Instruments series I suggest you pick this one up.
I enjoyed this book. I'm a little out of order as far as the companionship of the books, so I'll have to get caught up.
The back story would have been nice to have prior to reading The City of Fallen Angels. Nice to get a take on Magnus Bane's and Camille's relationship.
I think this spin off/prequel series will be fun.
The back story would have been nice to have prior to reading The City of Fallen Angels. Nice to get a take on Magnus Bane's and Camille's relationship.
I think this spin off/prequel series will be fun.
This book looked very interesting when I read the description from the author, however I was let down. I kept reading waiting for something exciting to happen and it never did. The book tended to drag on with unneeded descriptions. If you like sci-fi, fantasy books that are set in old world England, than you may like this book. I think it is more appropriate for a teen than someone 25+.
I'd been waiting to read this book for some time. I was not disappointed. I love the characters and how they play off each other, they are not hard to follow. The story keeps you turning pages to find out about Tessa's powers as well as her relationship with Will.
Karissa E. (ophelia99) reviewed Clockwork Angel (Infernal Devices, Bk 1) on + 2527 more book reviews
I have had this book a long time to read but I keep putting it off. I read the first book in Clare's Mortal Instruments series and absolutely hated it. However this series is incredibly popular and I love steampunk, so I decided to go ahead and check this book out despite my dislike of the Mortal Instruments.
I listened to this on audiobook and the audiobook was well done. My only complaint is that some of the men's voices sounded very similar. Aside from that it was very well done.
Tessa Gray is going to join her brother in London after the death of her aunt. However, when she arrives her brother is not there but instead The Dark Sisters pick her up with a note from her brother ensuring her that he trusts them. Well, the Dark Sisters are not at all trustworthy and they imprison Tessa forcing her to use a strange shapeshifting power that she seems to possess. Tessa is desperate to escape and then Will breaks in to rescue her.
Will is part of the London Institute of Shadowhunters, an organization of nephilim dedicated to policing everything evil and dark. He rescues Tessa but her relief is short-lived. The head of the Pandemonium Club wants Tessa for his own nefarious purposes and will stop at nothing to obtain her. Thus Tessa is drawn into the world of Shadowhunters, demons, and vampires.
This book started out fairly slow. In fact I almost stopped listening to this after the first couple chapters. The story did get better though. Once you get Will, Jem, and Charlotte involved in the story things start to move a lot faster and the witty banter between all the characters is very entertaining.
I loved the idea of the Shadowhunters and the London setting. The book isn't all that creative but it is entertaining. The story is fairly engaging as you get into it and the characters are well done and entertaining.
My main complaint with this book is Clare's writing itself...I guess I am just not a fan. I felt like she over-explained a lot of things (I hate that, it makes me feel like the author is talking down to me). I also thought some of the dialogue was awkward sounding. It was weird because sometimes the dialogue was very witty and flowed well and sometimes it was sooo awkward I was a bit embarrassed for Clare.
The story stops at a good point. There is some steampunk stuff in here but it's all pretty basic: a clockwork army and Tess's clockwork angel. This isn't however a fully evolved steampunk type of world...in fact there isn't much world-building at all.
Overall this ended up being a good YA paranormal book. I enjoyed the characters and the idea of the Shadowhunters. I thought some of the writing was a bit awkward and didn't enjoy all the over explaining that went on. I am on the fence about whether or not I will read the next book in the series; I enjoyed Tess's character and kind of want to know what happens to her...but I also am not a fan of Clare's writing style. I would recommend to those who have enjoyed Clare's other books. I personally seem to have some issues with the way she writes on a very basic level...so I am not a huge fan.
I listened to this on audiobook and the audiobook was well done. My only complaint is that some of the men's voices sounded very similar. Aside from that it was very well done.
Tessa Gray is going to join her brother in London after the death of her aunt. However, when she arrives her brother is not there but instead The Dark Sisters pick her up with a note from her brother ensuring her that he trusts them. Well, the Dark Sisters are not at all trustworthy and they imprison Tessa forcing her to use a strange shapeshifting power that she seems to possess. Tessa is desperate to escape and then Will breaks in to rescue her.
Will is part of the London Institute of Shadowhunters, an organization of nephilim dedicated to policing everything evil and dark. He rescues Tessa but her relief is short-lived. The head of the Pandemonium Club wants Tessa for his own nefarious purposes and will stop at nothing to obtain her. Thus Tessa is drawn into the world of Shadowhunters, demons, and vampires.
This book started out fairly slow. In fact I almost stopped listening to this after the first couple chapters. The story did get better though. Once you get Will, Jem, and Charlotte involved in the story things start to move a lot faster and the witty banter between all the characters is very entertaining.
I loved the idea of the Shadowhunters and the London setting. The book isn't all that creative but it is entertaining. The story is fairly engaging as you get into it and the characters are well done and entertaining.
My main complaint with this book is Clare's writing itself...I guess I am just not a fan. I felt like she over-explained a lot of things (I hate that, it makes me feel like the author is talking down to me). I also thought some of the dialogue was awkward sounding. It was weird because sometimes the dialogue was very witty and flowed well and sometimes it was sooo awkward I was a bit embarrassed for Clare.
The story stops at a good point. There is some steampunk stuff in here but it's all pretty basic: a clockwork army and Tess's clockwork angel. This isn't however a fully evolved steampunk type of world...in fact there isn't much world-building at all.
Overall this ended up being a good YA paranormal book. I enjoyed the characters and the idea of the Shadowhunters. I thought some of the writing was a bit awkward and didn't enjoy all the over explaining that went on. I am on the fence about whether or not I will read the next book in the series; I enjoyed Tess's character and kind of want to know what happens to her...but I also am not a fan of Clare's writing style. I would recommend to those who have enjoyed Clare's other books. I personally seem to have some issues with the way she writes on a very basic level...so I am not a huge fan.
Clockwork Angel is the first book in a three book prequel to the wildly popular Mortal Instruments series and like its predecessor it deals with the secret world of the Nephilim. The part angel demon fighters are back, but this time we are introduced to a generation living in 1800s London. While reading this book, I couldnt help to draw connections to the Mortal Instruments, for example book revolves around a group of four teenagers (2 girls, 2 boys), with a girl who doesnt know what she is being brought into the others world and their institute.
Read more of my review at http://bourg.info/2011/01/17/clockwork-angel-by-cassandra-clare/
Read more of my review at http://bourg.info/2011/01/17/clockwork-angel-by-cassandra-clare/
The characters are essentially the same as in The Mortal Instruments, but with different names. I read about half of the book and then put it down.
Starting out a bit confusing but the more I read the better I understand the story. Cant wait to get the CW Prince and Princess next year. I can see the tie in to the Mortal Instruments.
I'm an avid reader, and if you like books, this book is one. If you like books with good pacing and engaging story lines, well this book might not be for you.
I obtained the book thinking it would either be a Victorian fantasy romance or a steam punk book. It is definitely not steam punk unless you count anything that happens to be set in a Victorian setting. Cogs and gears are mentioned (eventually and mostly in conjunction with the supernatural), but that doesn't make it steam or punk.
As for the plot, I can tell you that for the first 160 pages there isn't one. After that I put the book down. I have quite the reading list, and giving the plot 160 pages to go somewhere was more than generous.
I obtained the book thinking it would either be a Victorian fantasy romance or a steam punk book. It is definitely not steam punk unless you count anything that happens to be set in a Victorian setting. Cogs and gears are mentioned (eventually and mostly in conjunction with the supernatural), but that doesn't make it steam or punk.
As for the plot, I can tell you that for the first 160 pages there isn't one. After that I put the book down. I have quite the reading list, and giving the plot 160 pages to go somewhere was more than generous.
