By Mallory Cox
Clary Fray is your average 15 year old. She goes on dates, talks to her friends, and has boy troubles. But normality becomes a thing of the past when Clary witnesses a bizarre murder at the Pandemonium Club one night. A group of teenagers, tattooed with strange symbols, kills a seemingly typical boy who disappears into thin air after his death. Horrified, Clary tries to forget the encounter, but when her mother is kidnapped and Clary herself is attacked by a terrifying creature, she realizes that there’s no going back to the world she once knew.
The group of teenagers is known as Shadowhunters, who hunt down demons and send them back to their own dimensions. The Shadowhunters quickly realize that Clary is no ordinary mundane girl. She has the Sight, which is the ability to see the world as it really is. This is a very interesting facet of the book. It symbolizes how many people today try too hard to understand the world, and in doing so can’t appreciate the beauty of it. Clary can also withstand the Marks that Shadowhunters write upon their skin. The fact that they do this, which can be painful to them, shows a lot about the strength of their characters. Making sacrifices is something the Shadowhunters have to do, and do often, to protect the world. Although her encounter with the demon was frightening at the least, Clary finds out that there is much worse to come. The Shadowhunters’ worst enemy is rising again – and the life of Clary’s mother is at stake.
In the meantime, a romance forms between Clary and the violent but gorgeous leader of the group, Jace. Together, they fight to destroy the evils that are plaguing their world… and attempt to save Clary’s mother. City of Bones by Cassandra Clare is a thrilling, suspenseful story that is full of dark humor. The fast pace and twisting plot will keep you on the edge of your seat. Once you’re done with this book, there are multiple sequels to read, and prequels as well. So, whether you like a deep romance or an action-packed adventure, City of Bones is sure to please.
