So, a while ago I posted a review on the first book of the Mortal Instruments series, City of Bones. I didn’t like it that much. But I gave the rest of the series a try, and here’s my opinion.
The story began to improve in book two (City of Ashes) and really hit its stride in book three (City of Glass) as it diverted from the encyclopaedia feel of book one and really got into plot development. Also, I found the story line became a bit less cliche, the plot twists more surprising. I began to settle into the world of the Shadowhunters, but it was a slow courtship.
I enjoyed the new story arcs involving Simon, Maia, and Isabelle. I enjoyed the lavish detail of world building, the idea of an invisible fantasy world enmeshed in an epic war. But though I wanted to root for the main characters, Clary and Jace, I still can’t shake the feeling that I don’t really know them, and when it all comes down to it, don’t really care what happens to them.
Although the interesting story and setting can almost make up for Cassandra Clare’s clunky, trying-too-hard prose, it still sticks out here and there to my writer’s eye. It makes me wonder how a good editor might have improved these books.
All in all, I’m not sorry I read these books, but alas, I don’t think I’ll be rushing to recommend them, either.
Erin E. M. Hatton 
I read the first book and was not impressed at all. Then, while reading your review, I thought “Well, maybe I should give them another try.” Then I got to the end of your review and I think you talked me back out of it.
But what would you recommend instead, for someone who wanted to like it but just couldn’t?
I have a number of other reviews on my site here if you’re interested. Off the top of my head, I’m really fond of the Divergent series and the Hunger Games, as far as YA goes. In terms of really good series you can sink your teeth into, hands down my favourite is the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon. Happy reading! 🙂
It looks like you did not enjoy these at all.
I’m sad to say I didn’t. 😦 They looked so promising, too.
I’ve never heard of the books. Thanks for sharing your opinion. I like reading reviews, even if the books aren’t on my to-read list right now. I’m always looking for more ideas to put on my to-read list. I don’t think this series will go on though.
Haha, yeah. I’ve got a few other reviews on here if you’re interested in building your to-read list. 🙂