Book Review: Cassie Clare's Clockwork Angel

The plot of this book may not have held any big surprises, but it was a fast, entertaining read. What really made it enjoyable were the characters, all of whom I found interesting and likable, and the world that Cassandra Clare has established.

I immediately liked the main character Tessa. It was hard not to - she's smart, with realistic strengths and weaknesses, and I love that she's a book nerd. I was really wary of her turning into a Mary Sue, especially given the love triangle described in the book's summary... But fortunately that never overshadowed the plot, and Tessa's character remained interesting independent of her love interests. Possibly my favorite character in the book though was Charlotte, the head of the Institute. I love that she's a very strong, organized woman- but that she still has some vulnerabilities. I think her role as a leader and her odd relationship with her husband make her really interesting.

Second to the characters, my favorite thing about the book was the world Cassandra created. I love urban fantasy, and while I can see the heavy influence of other urban fantasies on this series, it feels unique enough to make me want to know more about it. I also really like the Victorian setting in this novel.

And I really enjoyed the lit/poetry quotes! Especially since they were mostly taken from Victorian poets I really enjoy. I was kind of surprised how much Swinburne made it in there, but thinking about it, his poetry has just the gothic melodrama that really suits a YA fantasy novel.

I realize YA is not for everyone- but I think Clockwork Angel is entertaining and mature enough to be enjoyed by most fans of fantasy. Definitely a good read!

* Also, you can check out my friend Lucy's review of the first book in Cassie Clare's Mortal Instrument series, here!

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