Reviewed by Emily McDonnell
Clockwrk Prince
by Cassandra Clare
Walker Books
ISBN: 9781406365276, Feb 2016, paperback
Picking up smoothly from Clockwork Angel, the second book in Cassandra Clare’s Infernal Devices series is breathtakingly executed and filled with exquisite language, dialogue and plots. This proceeding novel delves deeper into characters – old and new. Clockwork Prince left me shocked with tears in my eyes, the ending was incredible and whilst reading this book I lost track of everything around me, I was truly engrossed in the story, the characters, the world and time period.
We find out more in relation of Will’s past and the ambiguous ‘curse’ which haunts him throughout his life and in developing relationships with those around him. Also, we learn more of Tessa’s powers and endangerment from Mortmain and the Dark Sisters. Most importantly, throughout the course of Clockwork Prince we discover the severity of Jem’s health and the impact of this upon others, particularly his Parabatai, Will.
A more distinctive love triangle (between Jem, Tessa and Will) is formed in this book, and despite the typical, predictable trope which is common in young adult fiction – Clare has created a masterpiece within this dynamic. I was frantic and very emotional whilst reading and found myself distraught between my love for all these characters.
Side characters including Charlotte, Henry, Jessamine, Sophie and the Lightwood brothers make appearances and the London Institute prepares for the chance of a surprise attack. Mystery and fear surrounds the Shadowhunters when the news of betrayal from one of their own is known.
We also hear more about Magnus Bane, famous and glamorous warlock, and the relationship between him and Will. The clave, too, grows ever more prominent in this book with the enlarging clockwork army hunting those opposed to Mortmain.
The excitement and fear alike I felt when reading was insane. I adored this book and was incredibly shocked and energized as to what would happen next? What on earth would happen in the finale of TID – Clockwork Princess? Needless to say, I would, as I do for all Cassandra Clare’s books, highly, highly recommend it. If you are in search of a new series, books to end a reading slump or an incredible fantasy/romance – these books are for you! Anyone who has been let down by City of Bones, I encourage you to pick up The Infernal Devices. They are captivating from start to finish and the links between The Mortal Instruments and this series is executed without fail. I’ve never read something like this before.
For those who aren’t clear on what I’m saying, the way I read Clare’s books was in publication order. In this case, two of her series intertwine and provide the perfect opportunity to make connections between when the Mortal Instruments is set (c. 2009) and when the Infernal Devices is set (c. 1800s).
All these books blend fabulously and are unique and highly creatively written. Above all, the stakes are much higher in this book, with a cliff-hanger to leave you stunned and storytelling to make you sob, laugh and gasp. Clockwork Prince is another incredible novel in the universe of the Shadow world.
About the reviewer: Emily McDonell was first prize winner in the Hunter Writers’ Centre/Compulsive Reader book review competition. She is a high school student, an avid reader and has a passion for books. It was clear from a very early age that books would play a large part in her life. Emily has participated in the Premier’s Reading Challenge since starting her schooling and her favourite subject is English. Emily has also been a Girl Guide for the past nine years and is currently working to complete her Queen’s Guide Award. Emily also loves animals especially her dog Jersey.