Cassandra Clare’s work is well worth reading

Allison Althof, Staff Writer

If you haven’t heard of Cassandra Clare and “The Shadowhunter Chronicles” before, then it is time for you to learn about a collection of books full of adventure, comedy, romance, and some soul crushing writing.

Clare opened our eyes to the shadow world back in 2007 with the release of the first book in The Mortal Instruments series, “City of Bones,” which follows the story of young Clary Fray after she witnesses a murder that no one else can see. Clary is then thrust into the Shadowhunter’s world without warning and we follow her along this journey through the six book series.

In addition to the Mortal Instruments, Clare has written a prequel series called The Infernal Devices set in Victorian London. The first book in the series, “Clockwork Angel,” starts with Tessa Grey arriving in London in search of her brother. After discovering a shocking secret about herself she meets Will and Jem, two Shadowhunters she is attracted to who are helping her unravel the truth.

Now Cassandra Clare is showing us a new side of Los Angeles in her sequel series to The Mortal Instruments, The Dark Artifices, starting with the long awaited “Lady Midnight.” The book begins five years after the heart stopping events in “City of Heavenly Fire,” the final book of the Mortal Instruments, and follows Emma Carstairs as she tries to discover who killed her parents.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a lot I can write about the newest addition to The Shadowhunter Chronicles without spoiling key parts from the previous books, but that just gives readers more reason to start the books from the very beginning. I cannot tell you how many times I have recommended this author to people. These books have so much to offer and they are sure to provide you with many sleepless nights while you laugh about the funny things that come out of the characters mouth or the soul crushing moments that leave you wanting more.

Clare’s writing is witty, eloquent, and above all captivating. From the very first book you are sucked into this world full of myths and mysteries that you think you know until you start getting sucked into the shadow world.

These books are about doing what is right for the sake of other and learning when to follow your heart or your head. If you are a huge fantasy reader, I say that you need to pick up this book immediately. Cassandra Clare has over 36 million copies in print all over the world and they have been translated into thirty-five languages.

With that many fans reading her books you know she has to be doing something right, and trust me there are plenty more Shadowhunter adventure to come after The Dark Artifices.