Saturday, December 21, 2013

Clockwork Prince (Infernal Devices #2)

10025305In magical Victorian London, orphan Tessa found safety with the Shadowhunters, until traitors betray her to the Magister. He wants to marry her, but so do self-destructive Will and fiercely devoted Jem. Mage Magnus Bane returns to help them. Secrets to her parentage lie with the mist-shrouded Yorkshire Institute's aged manager Alyosius Starkweather.

*May Contain Spoilers*

The Infernal Devices trilogy by Cassandra Clare continues with Clockwork Prince. Picking up right where Clockwork Angel left off, the Shadowhunters and the Clave are looking for the Magister. But someone in the Clave might be under his mechanical eye, helping him at every turn. And what of the Institute? Could their be another traitor among them? 

Tessa is still the main focus in this novel, as the Magister is still after her and the reason still a mystery, though the Shadowhunters seem to be making progress on this front. Readers solidify the initial connection made in Clockwork Angel. More of her heart is exposed as she falls in love with both Will and Jem for many different reasons. Readers come to understand more of what makes her tick (pun intended) when she agrees to marry Jem. Her friendship blossoms with Sophie, revealing just how loyal Tessa can be. Throughout the story, she still struggles to discover where she came from and what she is exactly. 

Readers also get a deeper look into Will's character in this novel. It's revealed that he was cursed as a young child with the understanding that anyone who comes to love him will die. In the background, Will and Magnus Bane try to uncover the demon who cursed Will in effort to reverse the evil affliction. Readers are more able to connect with Will when this is discovered because they now understand his reasoning behind pushing people away and playing a villainous role. 

The plot of the novel is played out under a restraint from the Shadowhunter Clave: Charlotte and Henry have two weeks to track down the Magister or they forfeit their ruling positions at the London Institute. This ultimatum for the characters will undoubtedly hook the readers, as they continue in their Magister Mystery. Clare's wonderful storytelling and writing style make this book one of pure enjoyment, even if Tessa doesn't end up with the reader's hero of choice. 

Rating: 4/5 Cups

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