Review first posted at http://unautrehistoire.blogspot.com/

Most of you have read Cassandra Clare's popular The Mortal Instrument series. And most of you were VERY excited when it was announced that it wasn't to end at City of Glass. That she was coming back with the much loved characters and keeping the story alive. I myself, really didn't care. Only because I had only read the first book- years ago when it first came out. I told myself I wasn't going to read anymore because I really hated the Clary and Jace were brother and sister, I was not happy, so I chose not to read further. It wasn't until Simon and Schuster Canada offered me a finished copy of City of Fallen Angels that I decided to find out what all the hoopla was about. Why did people love this series so much? Why were they so excited for it's return? So back in March I read both City of Ashes and City of Glass, and I really enjoyed them, a lot. However when my Copy of CoFA came in the mail, I did not immediately jump in and start reading.

Clare writes amazing characters. We all know that. And City of Fallen Angels brought to us the fabulous characters she does so well. In CoFA we got to see more of Simon's perspective on things. Which is something I really enjoyed. Simon was one of my favourite characters from The Mortal Instruments series. He was smart, totally dorky and completely endearing. How could you not like Simon? I really liked experiencing things from his point of view, and getting inside his head. I found reading about his concern when it came to his relationships with Isabelle and Maia. I could feel his concern and despair when his mother discovered him (that scene broke my heart), also when he attacked Maureen, the guilt he felt. Simon is one of Clare's more complex characters, and I was pleased to see more from him. Clary was the same old Clary we all know and love (sometimes), she's loyal to her friends and her sarcasm is renowned (maybe not like Jaces's but...). Her friendship with Simon makes me smile. I like Clary. I think she's a well developed, well rounded character. However, for me, for a female protagonist, she's not the most memorable for me. I sometimes felt like Clare felt like she had done all she could for Clary and focused more on others (this is just my perspective). I think there are certain character's in The Mortal Instrument series that are stronger than she is. In saying this, I need to reiterate; I liked Clary, however I just felt like she was left in the shadows more often then not. Jace, a crowd favourite. Normally I love Jace, his sarcasm and wit are legendary. Even at his lowest, Jace is known to be clever and always ready with a joke. I felt like this was missing in CoFA. Mostly because he was dealing with some heavy stuff. We still got Jace's jokes, and sarcasm, but it felt forced and sometimes it fell flat. He did have some great banter with Simon and some great one liners for sure, but they were few. His personal demons got in the way, and I was sad about that. Clare also introduces new characters in City of Fallen Angels. Kyle/Jordan is my favourite. I loved him. I loved what he brought to the story, and his attitude. I felt for him and Maia and I am curious about their story, I can't wait to explore that in future novels. I enjoyed seeing his friendship with Simon blossom. He even got along with Jace. It made for good reading. Magnus was another favourite of mine, and I was glad that him and Alec showed up in the end. I was worried I was going to miss them. I love Magnus, and he says one of the most remarkably romantic things to Alec, I was speechless, and saying "awwww," all at the same time.

Where I did enjoy reading CoFA for the most part, I had a few issues with things. When Jace started avoiding Clary, I didn't know why, I felt like that wasn't explained very well. One minute the two were getting along great, the next Jace is having huge issues with Clary and not speaking to her, this was so confusing to me. At first I thought that I had missed something and went back to check, but no, there was nothing to explain his sudden shift. I sometimes find that Clare over dramatizes things in her novels. Everything is such a big event, there is rarely anything subtle to be found in her books. Nothing is ever down played. This is partially why I didn't read this book when it first came to me. I had already read the two previous books in the series, and I wasn't sure that I could handle more. So I took a break, and I think that I enjoyed CoFA more then I would have if I had read it right away. I did not like the end of the novel mostly because it was so over played and so dramatic. It's like Clare asked "what the worst thing that could happen?" and then did exactly that. I was SO frustrated. I should have been expecting it. But It bugged me.

Even with all my hang ups with this book, I still really enjoyed it, and was pleased with what I got. Clare doesn't miss a beat with this book

I am so happy I finally got around to reading this. It is definatly a great contribution to the mortal instruments series. I really like how they start to incorporate characters from the Infernal Devices series. As ussually I Iove following Clary and Jace's relationship and it's up and downs, as well as Simons relationships. It was also nice to see more of Maia and to meet that new character Jordan. I didn't even see the ending coming it was quite a surprise Anyway I don't want to say to much, just that this is a really great book and it is definatly a must read.

First off I have to say I wasn't eager to read this one since I loved how City of Glass ended. Then I read the mixed reviews below and put off reading even longer. I started reading this book and could not put it down! I really enjoyed reading about Simon and his troubles rather then Clary and Jaces troubles for a change. Simon took on such a powerful role in this book that I can't wait to see what is to come for him in the next!

We find out in this book just how the "Mark of Cain" Clary etched on Simon's forehead really effects his life! He draws out the most powerful trying to harness him as a weapon and he learns quickly how many really do care about him!

This series is awesome city of glass for me felt like the end i was content with it ending there. But when i saw the new book i just had to get it, when i read it i was disapointed jace got on my nerves just like bella did in the twillight series, but the ending was the worst part, i threw the book across the room and didnt pick it up for days i was so mad that it ended like that. but on the bright side I like that Izzy became a more developed character.

The story was not but not nearly as good as the first three books. Jace actually got on my nerves reading the book, as like when Bella drove me nuts in "New Moon." Also, as the end I was VERY close to throwing the novel across the room because of the terrible ending. If you enjoy the series, read it, but don't expect it to be a good as the first three books of the series.

I've read all of the previous 'Mortal Instruments' books to date (including that ridiculous 'Prequel'), and this is the worst one of the series so far. The first couple books were exciting and original, but now I feel like the author is just killing the series. Why do authors find it necessary to drag on their series? Clare needs to realize that she's beating a dead horse. It's dead, move on. With every 'Prequel' and sequel that she's writing the plot just seems to drag on and on and then you finally get to the moment that you've been waiting for, and it's like 'That's it?'

Final Thoughts:
-This series needs to end...like yesterday.
-The cover art is kind of lame. I'm glad I had the hardcover so I could remove the sleeve.
-There's an unnecessary handwritten letter glued to the first page of the book...should have left that out. Stupid.

**Spoiler Free**
City of Fallen Angels is the fourth book in the Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare.

The 4th instalment starts us off with Clary back in New York after the Mortal war. Things turned out fairly well in the last book, leaving us thinking that was the final conclusion. But little did we know, the actions during the Mortal war with Valentine would have leave them all stuck with some serious consequences. Clary is excited for her Shadowhunter training and her blossoming relationship with Jace, since she's finally socially allowed to love him. Jace is in a darker mood than usual, and the reason why stays a mystery to not only Clary, but to us the readers, for a good length of the book. Simon battles with coming to terms with his curse of being a Daylighter vampire. He tries to live life like a normal human boy, but soon realizes none of the relationships in his life will ever be the same. His struggle seems overwhelming with the growing bloodlust, his unacceptance amongst his loved ones and knowing he's going to outlive everyone. Loneliness seems to be the theme of this book, accompanied by a few twists and turns to keep us sucked into this lovable series.

The rest of the gang is along for the angst filled ride that Clary, Jace and Simon go on, while bringing along new and fresh faces. Overall, the book was solid, but the first half felt a bit slow and dragging. The last half really picked up the pace, staying true to the rest of the MI books. Although, the feeling is darker than the previous books, I enjoyed it once I really got into it. I also feel this was more of a transition book for something way more epic to come, since we have a couple/few more books coming. Clare's writing style stays smooth and picturesque. I always feel like I'm right there with the characters. After the ups and downs I felt this book had, the ending was awesome, whether you like what happens or not, you will be left begging for the next book.

So I read the first three books, thought they were really good. I was a little scared when Ms. Clare announced a fourth, because I personally thought that the third book was a really good place to stop, but hey, if she's gonna go for a fourth book, it's completely her decision.

That being said, this fourth book was... not too bad, despite my misgivings. There is a genuinely good plot, despite the death of our main antagonist in the last book, and the action keeps things going nicely. I think the biggest problem with this book is the loss of actual romantic tension between Jace and Clary. They're together now, we KNOW they're together now, we know they're HAPPY together now... so why, in the name of all that is holy, does Jace still insist on being a secretive jerk? I thought there were no more secrets between them. I thought that they trusted each other absolutely. But this book really didn't do Jace justice, going backwards on his character instead of forwards. And because the series, in the past, has relied so much on the relationship between Clary and Jace and how their love makes each other grow, this surprising demoting of his character kept me from enjoying the book as much as I would've liked.

Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed most of the book. Having read the series up to now, I can say that fans should keep reading this series. Hopefully, things will pick up in the next book.

I was surprised that Ms. Clare wrote a 4th book in the Mortal Instruments series, as she seemed quite adamant on her website that it would conclude as a trilogy and her writing would be focused on her new series. I enjoyed City of Fallen Angels, although I wished I had reread City of Glass first as I had forgotten so many details and felt like I needed a recap. Also, I kept trying to figure out how characters from The Clockwork Angel fit into this storyline. It was a little confusing, and again, I wish I had the time to reread the original series as so much time has elapsed, but at no fault of the author. All the characters seem to be struggling with their relationships this time around (no simple happy endings here!) and what a cliffhanger at the end! I would also be interested to see what role the new Silent Brother plays in the upcoming book - or maybe I put too much credence into his statements to Jace. I was disappointed that my edition did not contain the letter from Jace to Clary that was supposed to be in the Chapters-Indigo copy. Regardless, it was a good book and I look forward to the next!

So it wasnt my favorite of the series. It was a good continuation, but IMHO I think this series should have ended as a trilogy. She took it into a story that has potential, but the original trilogy was amazing enough that any continuation just wont stand up to it. The ending made me really sad, just how much more crap will that poor man have to be put through?!? I still recommend everyone to read it!

Awesome. At first I thought, how could she possibly continue this series? But she has. This novel is good no doubt about that but I thought some parts were redundant but I'm sure the other books that she has planned will explain it all.

This book was amazing of course. Just as I had expected. I love the characters even more with every book. I can't wait to find out what happens next. The next book can not come out soon enough.

The fact that it took me just over two weeks to read this--by NO means--indicates I was bored or dissatisfied with it. It was killing me every day that I could not spend more time with my favourite Shadowhunters and Downworlders. How I love this intricate world that Cassandra Clare has created in her books. She is simply brilliant... I can't imagine anyone having these incredibly creative ideas floating around in their head... and yet, here it is... playing out like a movie going through my head. Great adventures, intriguing characters, strategically-injected humour, heart-stopping action, swoon-worthy romance, supernatural creatures and hot guys carrying swords and weapons. What more could I ask for? It was wonderful getting back to this world--especially since we originally thought that it was over with City of Glass. I remember finishing the last book in the original trilogy and desperately wanting more... and here it is in City of Fallen Angels... and I loved every minute of it.

Without going into a full synopsis of the book, I'll tell you what I loved most about this new installment.

When I first heard the rumblings of a continuation of The Mortal Instruments series, and that the focus was rumoured to be mostly on Simon... I have to admit that I felt a little deflated. Don't get me wrong... I ADORE Simon (especially now, after reading CoFA)... but one of my all-time favourite romantic couples--Clary and Jace--needed to have a huge presence for me in the story... and I was not disappointed.

As long as there was lots of Jace and Clary, I didn't mind Simon sharing the spotlight...at all. Simon stepped up as a wonderful leading man in his own right. As a new vampire, not belonging to any clan, not really fitting in with the Shadowhunters, and trying to resist his vampire nature, he takes his burden on his own and is left to stumble his way through, while he's also attracting all sorts of attention...romantic, political... and someone who wants him dead.

His adjustment to life as a vampire was not easy. Simon became even more endearing to me because he was not perfect... he faltered and has to live with the consequences. But I loved seeing how he matured and became more confident in himself while finding his way. And I enjoyed the little sparks of romance in his life... because he just deserves that kind of attention too. I wanted to jump into the pages so many times and just give him a hug.

The chemistry between all the characters is palpable. But... obviously... the most palpable is the one that exists between Jace & Clary. Now that Clary and Jace are free to pursue the kind of relationship they've always wanted--I was not surprised that they would also have to face more challenges. Their love blossomed even when it was taboo, even with the baggage they both still had from the previous events, and the new drama in their lives--it still continued to grow.

Individually... I felt all the characters matured at a reasonable and satisfying pace... and that is one of the main story line components I need to see in a book to win me over. Important secondary characters such as Isabelle, Alec, Magnus, Maia, Luke, Jocelyn and newcomers, Jordan (Kyle) and Maureen, all added so much richness to the story... I was never bored with their own more minor story lines that also continued to fit into the main story.

In many respects, the new villain, Lilith, made Valentine's plans look like they were hatched by a child. She was quite the puppet-master.

The ending... the last four pages had me shaking my head... no, no, NO! I nearly hurled the book against the wall!! I had this nagging feeling that something was coming that I was not going to like. I had that same feeling when I got to the end of City of Bones, where it was revealed that Jace and Clary were brother and sister, and I had to put my faith in Cassandra that it would all work out in the end. And now, once again, I have to put my faith in her because like everyone else... I have to wait for the next two installments over the next couple of years to see how this plays out. I honestly don't know how I'll survive it! I'm so looking forward to City of Lost Souls!!

It is going to be very hard not to do a spoilery review of this book, but I will do as best as I possibly can to keep the details as vague as possible.

First off, let me start by saying that I was extremely happy with the ending City of Glass provided - I actually thought this was going to be a trilogy? Imagine my surprise, last April, when I went into Chapters and saw this book... At first, I thought it was another series Clare was doing but I then saw "The Mortal Instruments" written on it. I was very sceptical and boy, was I wrong to worry! This book might as well be my favourite of the series.

Now, I have never seen the Mortal Instruments series as "dark". Of course, when there is evil, there's a dark side to it, but the overall feeling of these books, to me, has never been like this. I'm glad Cassandra Clare took a risk to make this book darker than its predecessors. This was a great gamble for her and she did it brilliantly.

I have always liked Simon through thick and thin, unlike most people, and was very glad to see him "blossom" in this novel. You really, really get to see a new side of the guy and the complex life he leads at the moment and it is hard not to want to just... grab the guy and hug him. Because he badly needs some love and support.

Clary and Jace... This will definitely not be an easy book to read for those of you who, like me, adore them. All I can say on them is that you root for them but you just don't know what to expect.

I did like the new main character introduced - I won't say more about him not to spoil anyone on this because this is someone from someone's past. Great addition to the gang and very fitting. I loved his interactions with Simon and Jace - especially those with Jace, they were hilarious together.

I thought Cassandra Clare's writing was somewhat better than I've seen her do before and I'm glad - she brings something else to the table with this and just knows just how to write her sentences to keep you hooked.

****SPOILERS FROM NOW ON****
The ending, although, reminded me a lot (maybe too much?) of Harry Potter. While I worship Harry Potter and J. K. Rowling, I also dislike anything that tries to come close to it. Those of you you have read both series probably know what part I am talking about and I wonder how this can affect the end of the series or next book (but I have a feeling this will go on till the end of the series.)

Seriously, while I had thought that something like this might happen (the ending, I mean), I never thought Cassandra Clare would have the guts to actually do this and leave us with such a cliffhanger. I'm glad she did because this will make me appreciate that much more the next book. And, anything that is dark, I love, so I am sure I will love the next book just as much as this one.

I loved this book. I really liked that Simon has a bigger role in this series. Don't like the big cliffhanger because it will be so long before the next one is released and will forget important details in the book.

I am a little disappointed in the struggle with Jace and Clary's relationship. I liked the struggles they had in the first 3 books, because that made the story but it is getting too much now. I would like to see them enjoy their relationship for a while without all the struggles.

But overall, Clare has created a wonderful 4th book to this series.

Cassandra Clare did another awesome job on the forth in this series! I loved seeing things from Simon's point of few and hope she keeps to that view with the others! The first three kept me hooked and this one was no different! Even with the gap in between the 3rd and 4th for me everything was laid out that you would have no problem picking it back up! I cannot wait for the next book to come out. I finished the third feeling ok with the ending, though still wanting more and when I heard this one was coming I couldn't wait for more and wasn't disapointed. I am eagerly waiting the next one :) keep them coming Cassandra!!!

It was pretty good despite the fact I was kind of confused at some parts. I kind of forgot what happened in City of Glass and they weren't really clear on what happened in previous books. I read the other books over two years ago. I wouldn't have minded a little recap. I didn't understand where the letter fits into the story. I wish they explained how all of a sudden Clary and Jace were fighting when the night before they were fine. Everything seemed rushed. This sounds like a bad review, but it's not! I loved the alley scene ;) The book was so funny. Humour is amazing. Ending was a cliffy! Gr! Can't wait to buy the next book!

City of Fallen Angels is the 4th book in the Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare. I received the book from the very generous Simon & Schuster Canada.

There are many elements of this series that interest me. I find the idea of tattoo runes fascinating, especially because the use of a pen like instrument (the steele) is what really seems to separate the Nephilim from other trained warriors. The pen is mightier than the sword, is an interesting topic in a book about teens raised to fight demons. I enjoyed Simon`s struggle with his vampire instincts, and the understanding that accepting our nature is the best way to control it.

Simon is really the most interesting person in this book, and there`s a little less about Jace and Clary`s drama. Which is a good thing because I still find their relationship to be icky. In fact, I think most relationships in this series are pretty unhealthy. This is a problem I have with a lot of books for teens; stalking your girlfriend because you are afraid that if you actually talk to her you will hurt her is creepy, weird and not a good example of love. Ever since Twilight this has been a trend, the brooding guy who follows the girl `to protect her`. At least in this novel Simon points out the creepiness of it all, and Clary gets mad at Jace (although not mad enough if you ask me).

I don`t really like that Jewish/Christian mythology is becoming quite so prominent in the series. It reminds me of the show Supernatural that I loved when it was two demon hunters fighting beasts from urban legends, but got annoyed with when the Heaven vs Hell battle got full blown with Lucifer and everything. I think a touch of mythology from religion makes things interesting but I`m not sure I like how far Clare takes it.

I enjoyed the book overall, but it didn`t have the same edgy sarcasm that was so delightful earlier in the series. I`ll keep reading, but I hope Clare steps it up in the next book, doesn`t just draw everything out. Enough with the Jace being bad for Clary but perfect at the same time. That`s been done. Maybe focus on Magnus and Alec??

I thought this book was amazing. Although it ended well with the 3rd book and she really didnt need to make a 4th, im so glad that Clare decided to make a 4th one, because i forgot how much I love the characters in this series.
The thing I hate most about good books is that they end when you just want them to keep going and going... and the fact that Clare left the ending of the book on possibly one of the biggest cliff hangers ever, and regardless of the fact that im going to have to wait another 6 months to get the 5th book (which by the way happens to piss me off) I still loved reading this book and I think it was money well spent, I seriously cant wait for the next book to see how things play out

I thought now that the triogy was over the series was screwed, but this is an amazing book! Loved it.