Review: Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

CLOCKWORK ANGEL (The Infernal Devices Series #1) by Cassandra Clare

Pub. Date: August 2010

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

Format: Hardcover, 496pp

Age Range: Young Adult

Series: Infernal Devices Series, #1

Source: Publisher

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.

I've been anticipating this book - it seems like forever. To be able to continue visiting the world that Cassandra Clare has created is a special treat indeed. The Infernal Devices brings to readers a new cast of characters plus a few old ones from TMI (The Mortal Instruments).

It was easy to delve back into the world of Nephilim and Downworlders. CLOCKWORK ANGEL takes readers to the setting of London as Tessa Gray enlists the help of Will, Jem, Charlotte, Henry & Jessie to aid her in her search for her missing brother. My favorite warlock (Magnus Bane) also makes an appearance. I love the London setting in this book. Clare’s descriptions of 1800’s London put me smack-dead in the scenery right alongside the characters. The London setting also gives the story a whole new, dark and edgy feel as the cast set out on their mission to uncover the mystery behind the Magister and The Pandemonium Club.

I can't say enough great things about the cast in this book. Tessa is a heroine that I've enjoyed getting to know. Jem is a sweetheart and Will is mysterious as ever. Of course, Will is my favorite! I love the whole misunderstood thing he has going on - reminds me a bit of Jace Wayland from TMI. What’s not to like about that? Clare continues to lure me into the world that she's created. With a beautiful setting, fascinating characters, and dangerous intrigue, who could ask for anything more? No complaints here.

I can't wait to see what CLOCKWORK PRINCE - the next installment in this awesome series has in store. I don't think I could ever get tired of Clare's world. It’s so great to immerse yourself into her magical world for a little escapism!

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

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