A Must-Read YA Series for Fantasy and Action Fans
“City of Bones” is the first book in the “Mortal Instruments” series, written by Cassandra Clare, and it’s a page-turner from start to finish. I
It’s not as dark as the type of urban fantasy I normally read, but it was still a very enjoyable novel and is the only YA on our list of must-read urban fantasy novels.
Summary of City of Bones
“City of Bones” by Cassandra Clare is a thrilling YA novel that follows Clary Fray, a seemingly ordinary teenager in New York City. After witnessing a murder, she discovers the existence of the Shadowhunters, a group of warriors dedicated to protecting humanity from demons. With the help of fellow Shadowhunters Jace, Isabelle, and Alec, Clary embarks on a dangerous journey to uncover her past and save her mother. Filled with supernatural elements, unexpected twists, and a captivating cast of characters, “City of Bones” is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy and action.
Five Reasons to read City of Bones
Unique and Intriguing World-Building
The story takes place in present-day New York City, but it’s a world filled with supernatural elements. The Shadowhunters are warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons, and their world is well thought-out, with a secret place called “Idris” somewhere in Europe and neat angelic weapons like swords, daggers, and chakrams. The concept of “Marks” is also fascinating, where the Shadowhunters can draw strength and heal instantly through tattoos on their bodies.
Compelling and Relatable Protagonist
Clary is a relatable and likeable character who just wants to fit in and lead a normal life. When she witnesses a murder and discovers she has the Sight, her life is turned upside down. Her character development throughout the book is well-done, and you can’t help but root for her.
Cool and Complex Secondary Characters
Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks like an angel but acts like a jerk, is a standout character who develops throughout the story. The other Shadowhunters, Isabelle and Alec Lightwood, also have their own distinct personalities and are interesting in their own right.
Unpredictable and Exciting Plot
The plot is filled with twists and turns, and the unexpected revelation about Clary’s father, Valentine, is a major plot twist that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The Mortal Cup and the other two mortal instruments are intriguing elements that will make you want to keep reading to find out more.
Captivating and Well-Written
The book is incredibly well-written and captivating, with no dull moments throughout. If you’re a fan of “The Hunger Games,” “Divergent,” or “Twilight,” but with way more action, you’ll love “City of Bones.”
Overall, “City of Bones” is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy and action. Cassandra Clare has created a unique and intriguing world filled with compelling characters and an unpredictable plot that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Best City of Bones Quotes
If you aren’t sure City of Bones is for you, why don’t you take a look at these quotes from the novel:
“To love is to destroy, and that to be loved is to be the one destroyed.”
“The meek may inherit the earth, but at the moment it belongs to the conceited. Like me.”
“People aren’t born good or bad. Maybe they’re born with tendencies either way, but its the way you live your life that matters.”
“I don’t want tea,” said Clary, with muffled force. “I want to find my mother. And then I want to find out who took her in the first place, and I want to kill them.”
“I don’t want to be a man,” said Jace. “I want to be an angst-ridden teenager who can’t confront his own inner demons and takes it out verbally on other people instead.”
“As long as there was coffee in the world, how bad could things be?”
“Every teenager in the world feels like that, feels broken or out of place, different somehow, royalty mistakenly born into a family of peasants. The difference in your case is that it’s true.”
“It wouldn’t be my move,” Jace agreed. “First the candy and flowers, then the apology letters, then the ravenous demon hordes. In that order.”
“The boy never cried again, and he never forgot what he’d learned: that to love is to destroy, and that to be loved is to be the one destroyed.”
“As long as there was coffee in the world, how bad could things be?”