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City of Bones
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Clare, Cassandra - City of Bones (Mortal Instruments #1) "revisit" - Buddy Read - Start Date (December 2, 2014) - December 24, 2015
Mod
1. I am also seeing alot of HP similarities..."
I believe this is a series that started its life as Harry Potter fan fiction. Not to say that there isn't also a lot of or..."
Interesting! You are right. I just googled and found this on wiki:
In 2004, Clare started working on her first-published novel City of Bones, inspired by the urban landscape of Manhattan. City of Bones was released by Simon & Schuster in 2007. It is a reworking of her Harry Potter fanfic Draco Trilogy, written from 2000 to 2006. Clare's work has been controversial due to charges of plagiarism
Mod
LOL! Oh so true. I didn't even think about that similarity!!
Yup, that seems about right. I wish I'd read it. I wonder if "Clary" was originally framed as "Harry"? ;)
Mod
@Robin: I did not think about that at all, good point! I haven't checked the author's picture before, either. I am a rather ignorant reader, as long as I enjoy the story, not much else matters.July 17 Chapters 4-6 (pages 50-95)
4.Did you agree with Clary's decision to go back to her house after her mother called her begging her not to go? First, I would have been scared shitless. Second, I would not be able to think straight alike Clary and Third, I would run home just like her, thinking that must me a bad dream and finding out it isn't must be the worst nightmare ever ...
5.The Ravenor Demon said to itself "Valentine will never know". This is the second time we have heard of Valentine now. I do feel like there are alot of Harry Potter similarities (mundies v muggles ; valentine v voldermort ; The Institute v Hogwarts). Have you noticed that? Does it impact your feelings towards the book? Hopefully, Valentine makes a good villain, one that I love to hate :) I agree, there are a lot of similarities to HP, but just for now, I decide to ignore it and hopefully continue to enjoy City of Bones.
6. I was surprised with Luke's reaction when Clary called him. Do you think he is just trying to protect her (or himself?) by not helping her? Or is he just a jerk? Me too, I had the picture that they were really close, but with how he hung up the phone I thought: what a jerk, but then maybe he thinks only of her wellbeing, if it's only his, then I stay with "what a jerk!"
7. Valentine "died" 15 years ago along with his wife and child.... hmmm... sounds like he could be Clary's father and is actually still alive... Thoughts? convenient coincidence, the first puzzle about her heritage seems to be solved, then we can presume that her blood relation is the reason why she is able to see Jace and the demons.
8. The descriptions of the Institute were interesting - I always love it when authors describe libraries! What did you think of the Institute and it's inhabitants? I loved the intro to the Institute with the gloomy and dark corridors, the library with tons of books, I am a sucker for descriptions like that :) Hodge is interesting, and I dislike Alec and Isabelle.
9. Another horrible creature tries to kill Clary and it seems there is more than meets the eye with Dorothea! We hit another cliff hanger for a stopping point! Guesses on Dorothea's story? It seems to be too much of a coincidence that she was living in the same building as Clary and her mum.
Imke wrote: "July 17 Chapters 4-6 (pages 50-95)Mrs. Figg anyone ;)"
You got it :)
Mod
4. Good for you! I am a scardy-cat and would've listened to my mum and called the cops! ;)
6. You could be right. I didn't think about him protecting her mum
7. yes, I hope it isn't that obvious
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@Christine
4. lol!
7. Valentine is meant to be a villian, so it will be interesting is that is her dad!
8. Seems to be common amongst us all! I think Alec may end up being in the love triangle (or is that a square?!)
9. yes, I like Imke's Mrs Figg thought :)
Christine, you dislike Alec? Oh, but he's one of my favourite characters! I can't wait to read more :D
July 17 Chapters 4-6 (pages 50-95)4.Did you agree with Clary's decision to go back to her house after her mother called her begging her not to go?
Ummm, not really, but I understand it and probably would end up doing the same thing if it was MY mother!
5.The Ravenor Demon said to itself "Valentine will never know". This is the second time we have heard of Valentine now. I do feel like there are alot of Harry Potter similarities (mundies v muggles ; valentine v voldermort ; The Institute v Hogwarts). Have you noticed that? Does it impact your feelings towards the book?
Considering this book series started as HP fanfiction (if I remember correctly) and then evolved into something else, I'm not surprised at all. I loved Harry Potter, so if she can do it 10% as well as JKRowling, then I'm sure I'll enjoy it. :D
6. I was surprised with Luke's reaction when Clary called him. Do you think he is just trying to protect her (or himself?) by not helping her? Or is he just a jerk?
I feel like he is trying to both save his own skin AND stay disconnected from her in order to protect her (ie if they come after him, he doesn't know where she is, etc)
7. Valentine "died" 15 years ago along with his wife and child.... hmmm... sounds like he could be Clary's father and is actually still alive... Thoughts?
Definitely still alive. Thinking you're right about her parentage.
8. The descritions of the Institute were interesting - I always love it when authors describe libraries! What did you think of the Institute and it's inhabitants?
I want to see it! I would love to have a massive library and a cool crazy-smart cat!
9. Another horrible creature tries to kill Clary and it seems there is more than meets the eye with Dorothea! We hit another cliff hanger for a stopping point! Guesses on Dorothea's story? It seems to be too much of a coincidence that she was living in the same building as Clary and her mum.
Doubt it was a coincidence. And yay, more weird creatures! :) Love the mythology and world building going on!
I read the trilogy a while ago, right before it turned into a 6 book series, and I'm not in the mood to re-read it, but will follow this discussion to remember the book before the movie, yes, I know, I'm taking and not giving anything in return. But, since I read (listened) the three in a row, I'm having trouble separating the plots, so I'll try to add my 2 cents without any major spoiler, when in doubt, I'll be silent :)And I never thought about the HP similarities, now I can't think anything else. Even the series name - The Mortal Instruments - make me thing about the Deathly Hallows.
Sonia wrote: "I read the trilogy a while ago, right before it turned into a 6 book series, and I'm not in the mood to re-read it, but will follow this discussion to remember the book before the movie, yes, I kno..."I'm in the same boat, having read all this before. Only up to book 4, though, which I picked up out of curiosity after the movie deals were signed. I think that she wrapped things up nicely at the end of book 3 though, and haven't picked up 5 and 6.
I'm just loving reading peoples' reactions and getting nostalgic for my own first impressions of City of Bones!
Nicole wrote: "I'm in the same boat, having read all this before. Only up to book 4, though, which I picked up out of curiosity after the movie deals were signed. I think that she wrapped things up nicely at the end of book 3 though, and haven't picked up 5 and 6. I'm just loving reading peoples' reactions and getting nostalgic for my own first impressions of City of Bones! "
I couldn't motivate myself to read book #4 after the ending of book #3.
I have the Infernal Devices on waiting list and probably will read the rest of the Mortal Instruments just because I fell in love by Magnus Bane, or maybe I forgot the rest and focus only on the Bane Chronicles :)
Wait US $5.42 for the kindle edition of Vampires, Scones, and Edmund Herondale. It has 45 pages????? I probably misread something. It can't be right.
I'd probably wait and see if they make a compiled book of the 10 stories for a better price!
The plan is to published one per month during 2013, and then compiled all in a single volume in 2014. I thought a 40 page ebook was perfect for sneeking in during work... but not at that price.
Mod
5. I was totally clueless about that until Nicole pointed it out! I think it was the reference to "mundies" that made me (and Christine) start thinking of HP. You're right, that this is still a very enjoyable book so far!
9. Yes, I like that it is slowly introducing the world
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@Sonia
No problems - lurk away! I am hoping to put my HP hat away and enjoy the book, but it is hard when there are so many similarities!
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Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado
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10.Dorothea's place was interesting. Jace's future seems to be in the direction of violence, enemies and a love triangle. ;) Clary's was "blocked". Maybe her mum did this to protect her from that world? Thoughts?
11. Not a question, just some information, but feel free to comment! Clary picks The Ace of Cups tarot card. In tarot, cups is the suit of emotions and ace is new beginnings. So this card has meanings of the beginning of love, happiness and compassion. It can indicate the start of a new relationship, be it a friendship or a romance. The card itself has a picture of a dove and water flowing so it is considered a peaceful, postive card. If you are doing the tarot challenge you can use this book as a bonus
12. The house they live in is a sanctuary that hides "criminals" and protected by Dorothea. Did this surprise you? What/who do you think Jocelyn was hiding from?
13. I liked the idea of a portal. I hope we get to see this used to go to other cool places! Ideas about Luke? He aligned with Jocelyn while it suited - is he really keeping distant from the situation? What about the manacles they found with blood on them?
14. I'm enjoying the fast pace of the book, and now the introduction of the mortal cup being stolen and possibly hidden by Jocelyn, showing us the men that killed Jace's father, The Circle etc. How do you feel about the book? Are you still engaged? Enjoying the writing style?
I have my reading done for July 16th and part of it done for July 17th. I just got off from work a little while ago and I am really tired and must get to bed so I can get up early in the morning and go back to work LOL Soooooooo, when I get home tomorrow evening I will come back and answer my questions and make responses :)
Mod
July 18 Chapters 7-9 (pages 96-139)10.Dorothea's place was interesting. Jace's future seems to be in the direction of violence, enemies and a love triangle. ;) Clary's was "blocked". Maybe her mum did this to protect her from that world? Thoughts?
I think Clary is “blocked” because she hasn’t accepted the fact she’s a shadowhunter yet.
11. Not a question, just some information, but feel free to comment! Clary picks The Ace of Cups tarot card. In tarot, cups is the suit of emotions and ace is new beginnings. So this card has meanings of the beginning of love, happiness and compassion. It can indicate the start of a new relationship, be it a friendship or a romance. The card itself has a picture of a dove and water flowing so it is considered a peaceful, postive card. If you are doing the tarot challenge you can use this book as a bonus
It could then also mean a new life for Clary, one in which she knows her destiny and she will start training to be a shadowhunter?
12. The house they live in is a sanctuary that hides "criminals" and protected by Dorothea. Did this surprise you? What/who do you think Jocelyn was hiding from?
No I wasn’t surprised, I think Jocelyn was hiding from Valentine.
13. I liked the idea of a portal. I hope we get to see this used to go to other cool places! Ideas about Luke? He aligned with Jocelyn while it suited - is he really keeping distant from the situation? What about the manacles they found with blood on them?
Luke is still protecting Jocelyn and Clary, he does this by trying to keep his distance. At least we know now Clary’s mother is still alive. I think the blood on the manacles was Luke’s. I think he was held captive in his bookstore.
14. I'm enjoying the fast pace of the book, and now the introduction of the mortal cup being stolen and possibly hidden by Jocelyn, showing us the men that killed Jace's father, The Circle etc. How do you feel about the book? Are you still engaged? Enjoying the writing style?
Still like the book, it just keeps tossing out these cliff hangers and questions. I’m not sure for how much longer I can keep to the reading schedule I just want to keep going. I’ve already caught myself checking out the next installments of this series.
@Imke: I totally agree with your comment on #14.
Does anyone know if the movie only contains the first book or also the second and third?July 18 Chapters 7-9 (pages 96-139)
10.Dorothea's place was interesting. Jace's future seems to be in the direction of violence, enemies and a love triangle. ;) Clary's was "blocked". Maybe her mum did this to protect her from that world? Thoughts? Really interesting, to have a door to another dimension in the living room, I want that too ;) I think someone, most likely her mother, wants to protect Clary by having blocked her memories.
11. Not a question, just some information, but feel free to comment! Clary picks The Ace of Cups tarot card. In tarot, cups is the suit of emotions and ace is new beginnings. So this card has meanings of the beginning of love, happiness and compassion. It can indicate the start of a new relationship, be it a friendship or a romance. The card itself has a picture of a dove and water flowing so it is considered a peaceful, postive card. If you are doing the tarot challenge you can use this book as a bonus I think that the card shows a new beginning -> her training to be a shadow hunter
12. The house they live in is a sanctuary that hides "criminals" and protected by Dorothea. Did this surprise you? What/who do you think Jocelyn was hiding from? No, I wasn't surprised to learn that. Valentine
13. I liked the idea of a portal. I hope we get to see this used to go to other cool places! Ideas about Luke? He aligned with Jocelyn while it suited - is he really keeping distant from the situation? What about the manacles they found with blood on them? It teleports you anywhere you think of, sooo cool. So, it turned out that he is not a jerk and he thought of protecting Jocelyn and Clary. I thought they held him there and tortured him.
14. I'm enjoying the fast pace of the book, and now the introduction of the mortal cup being stolen and possibly hidden by Jocelyn, showing us the men that killed Jace's father, The Circle etc. How do you feel about the book? Are you still engaged? Enjoying the writing style?
Catching up with all of you :)So I start with answering the first segment of questions:
1. Lots of action in the first few chapters and new words! Mudies, shadowhunters, infernal worlds, "Hodge" and "The Institute", the night children.... Thoughts on the book so far?
I'm very intrigued so far. I haven't read a full blown fantasy novel in a long time and I really love all that supernatural stuff. Looking forward to see where all of this is going. Especially how the infernal worlds are like.
2.Do you think Clary's mum is (was?) a shadowhunter based on the clues given so far (no family history, no background prior to Clary, scars on her arms the same as Jace, her drawings, Luke's reactions)? Any guesses on why/how she can be seen by "mundies" if that is the case? Who has found her? I think she is a shadowhunter. It's like they rub it under your nose. It is also probably the reason why Clary can see all those things because she is the daughter of a shadowhunter which means she at least partly belongs to their world. The question as to ehy she can be seen by "mundies" is very interesting. Maybe when she got together with Clary's father she made a conscious decision to belong to our world? I'm also asking myself why Clary hasn't noticed the scars of her mother?
3. Clary is described as slender, 5ft tall, "carotty" hair, freckles and clumsy. She also seems a bit clueless about the world around her! Do you like Clary so far? And her relationship with Simon? I smell a YA love triangle on the horizon! ;)
I like her so far. Though after so few chapters it's hard to pinpoint her character. The clumsy part reminds me of myself. I can clearly see her age in some actions (it yells teenager to me) and sometimes that's a little difficult for me to relate to because I outgrew my rebellious face and find some actions of such teenager protagonists hard to fully understand and support. The relationship between her and Simon is very nice and I also fear a love triangle. He seems nice and his witty and sarcastic comments are just my sense of humor ;)
Christine wrote: "@Imke: I totally agree with your comment on #14."Just gave in and got the rest of the series. Will try to stay on schedule for this buddy read.
And now to the questions of the second segment:4.Did you agree with Clary's decision to go back to her house after her mother called her begging her not to go? Yes, Absolutely! Was it insane and dangerous? Yes. But did she know there would be a demon awaiting her? No! I would have done the exact same thing if it was my mother. However on my way I would have tried to get someone to call the police for backup.
5.The Ravenor Demon said to itself "Valentine will never know". This is the second time we have heard of Valentine now. I do feel like there are alot of Harry Potter similarities (mundies v muggles ; valentine v voldermort ; The Institute v Hogwarts). Have you noticed that? Does it impact your feelings towards the book? I think there are some similarities but we just have to see how the book/series progresses. I mean, even if some things seem to be similar they could develop into completely different directions. Also such similarities also exist between Harry Potter and other books. Nothings ever truly unique.
6. I was surprised with Luke's reaction when Clary called him. Do you think he is just trying to protect her (or himself?) by not helping her? Or is he just a jerk? I think he is trying to protect her. Maybe he knows the demons are coming for him or he is trying to keep a secret from her? Maybe in the end he has something to do with her mother's disappearance? We'll see.
7. Valentine "died" 15 years ago along with his wife and child.... hmmm... sounds like he could be Clary's father and is actually still alive... Thoughts? That was exactly my first thought. But somehow... I don't know. It's somehow too obvious for my taste. You know what I mean?
8. The descritions of the Institute were interesting - I always love it when authors describe libraries! What did you think of the Institute and it's inhabitants? I would love to explore it myself. Sounds pretty amazing. Love the cat already. Though about the inhabitants I don't want form an opinion too soon. Hodge seems interesting and kind though I sense that he has a dark secret hidden somewhere. Alec is pretty hostile and he'll either come around in the end and become friends with Clary (possibly more?) or he'll turn against them.
9. Another horrible creature tries to kill Clary and it seems there is more than meets the eye with Dorothea! We hit another cliff hanger for a stopping point! Guesses on Dorothea's story? It seems to be too much of a coincidence that she was living in the same building as Clary and her mum. I suspected from the beginning that something was up with Dorothea but when Jace said the he already looked into it I brushed it off only to discover I was right :) Her story though? No idea? with her threat to curse Jace maybe she is indeed a witch with the ability to conceal her power from shadowhunters? I guess we'll find out soon.
July 18 Chapters 7-9 (pages 96-139)10.Dorothea's place was interesting. Jace's future seems to be in the direction of violence, enemies and a love triangle. ;) Clary's was "blocked". Maybe her mum did this to protect her from that world? Thoughts?
I think her mom was on the run, so she needed to make sure that her daughter didn't find out this big family secret and force the issue?
11. Not a question, just some information, but feel free to comment! Clary picks The Ace of Cups tarot card. In tarot, cups is the suit of emotions and ace is new beginnings. So this card has meanings of the beginning of love, happiness and compassion. It can indicate the start of a new relationship, be it a friendship or a romance. The card itself has a picture of a dove and water flowing so it is considered a peaceful, postive card. If you are doing the tarot challenge you can use this book as a bonus
Tarot challenge??? What is this you speak of??? :D
12. The house they live in is a sanctuary that hides "criminals" and protected by Dorothea. Did this surprise you? What/who do you think Jocelyn was hiding from?
I think Jocelyn was hiding from everyone, Valentine, the Clave, the Circle, etc.
13. I liked the idea of a portal. I hope we get to see this used to go to other cool places! Ideas about Luke? He aligned with Jocelyn while it suited - is he really keeping distant from the situation? What about the manacles they found with blood on them?
I want one. Badly. I am not sure I like Luke at all.
14. I'm enjoying the fast pace of the book, and now the introduction of the mortal cup being stolen and possibly hidden by Jocelyn, showing us the men that killed Jace's father, The Circle etc. How do you feel about the book? Are you still engaged? Enjoying the writing style?
The book is fast paced and easy to read. Probably why I'm WAY ahead. Not groundbreaking literature by any means, but it's fun and entertaining... which is nice. :)
Time Lord Steven wrote: "July 18 Chapters 7-9 (pages 96-139)10.Dorothea's place was interesting. Jace's future seems to be in the direction of violence, enemies and a love triangle. ;) Clary's was "blocked". Maybe her mu..."
#11 - you can find the Tarot challenge here:
http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/1...
Thanks, Christine!!!!
*gasps*You really didn't know about our AMAZING tarot challenge???
*shakes head*
I want a portal too. That way I could visit you all and share books (an recipes) :)
Sonia wrote: "*gasps*You really didn't know about our AMAZING tarot challenge???
*shakes head*
I want a portal too. That way I could visit you all and share books (an recipes) :)"
I added it to my challenges to work on... I've got a secret group all to myself (with a few random peeps) where I work on planning and building.
Once I've worked out my August reads, I'll start piecing them into that :)
Sonia wrote: "I want a portal too. That way I could visit you all and share books (and recipes) :)"Yes! I'd get to visit you in Portugal!!! :D
That'd be AWESOME! :)
Time Lord Steven wrote: "Sonia wrote: "I want a portal too. That way I could visit you all and share books (and recipes) :)"Yes! I'd get to visit you in Portugal!!! :D
That'd be AWESOME! :)"
It would!
When you come to Europe just let me know. Even if you don't have the time or oportunity to visit Lisbon, I never went to London or Paris, so meeting you would be a great excuse to do exactly that!
Can you imagine us rocking the Tower of London or having a blast on the Champs Elisees?
:D
Sonia wrote: "Time Lord Steven wrote: "Sonia wrote: "I want a portal too. That way I could visit you all and share books (and recipes) :)"Yes! I'd get to visit you in Portugal!!! :D
That'd be AWESOME! :)"
I..."
It will be a few years away, unless I hit some windfall or lottery winnings haha.
I can imagine that. It would be AWESOME :D
I can already listen to the Tour Eiffel trembling in fear *giggles*We have time.
Oh..I know... We'll go to Romenia and visit Bran Castle!!! (aka Dracula's castle). And while we are there, maybe we spot a Romanian Longhorn Dragon.
Caught up with you!10.Dorothea's place was interesting. Jace's future seems to be in the direction of violence, enemies and a love triangle. ;) Clary's was "blocked". Maybe her mum did this to protect her from that world? Thoughts? Or maybe to protect her from a memory that can potentially endanger her? Like the location of the Mortal Cup?
11. Not a question, just some information, but feel free to comment! Clary picks The Ace of Cups tarot card. In tarot, cups is the suit of emotions and ace is new beginnings. So this card has meanings of the beginning of love, happiness and compassion. It can indicate the start of a new relationship, be it a friendship or a romance. The card itself has a picture of a dove and water flowing so it is considered a peaceful, postive card. If you are doing the tarot challenge you can use this book as a bonus.
12. The house they live in is a sanctuary that hides "criminals" and protected by Dorothea. Did this surprise you? What/who do you think Jocelyn was hiding from? Was kinda surprised but not surprised at the same time. And since Jocelyn was clearly afraid of "him" finding her, I strongly suspect she was hiding from Valentine.
13. I liked the idea of a portal. I hope we get to see this used to go to other cool places! Ideas about Luke? He aligned with Jocelyn while it suited - is he really keeping distant from the situation? What about the manacles they found with blood on them? I don't think he really is that distant. He cares and he wanted to keep Clary save.
14. I'm enjoying the fast pace of the book, and now the introduction of the mortal cup being stolen and possibly hidden by Jocelyn, showing us the men that killed Jace's father, The Circle etc. How do you feel about the book? Are you still engaged? Enjoying the writing style? I like it but I'm not blown away after all the hype that the book got. Somehow the story doesn't flow with me, the scenes seem rather like they are simply aligned not really fitting. Jumping from one event to another. Don't get me wrong, it' really good I just expected more.
Mod
10. That is true too.
11. I like it!
13. True, Jocelyn is around somewhere - there is still hope!
14. Self control is very hard sometimes! lol!
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@Christine
11. I wonder if she will train in this book or a future one? hmmmm
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@Franky
2. Yes, I wondered about the scars too. It was like she didn't know about them but then they also seemed familiar somehow
3. Glad you are enjoying the characters so far :)
4. me too. I wondered why she didn't call the cops on her way
5. That is true. everything has ben done in some way some where before
7. so obvious it can't be true? perhaps!
8. I want to take Church home too. Although a cat that can understand everything may be hard to live with...lol
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@Steven
10. The only thing I can't work out yet is why she suddenly was able to see them when they were "glamoured" but other mundies couldn't. It is like the block was still in place, but bits seeping through? I wonder if something happened we don't know about that enabled her mother to be found and her to get that ability back
11. Follow the link! ;) https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
13. I'm hoping Luke will come good at some point, but I'm not convinced. Do you need a portal when you have a TARDIS?
14. Agreed. I have stuck with the schedule like a good girl (plus I've been really busy this week...lol)
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@Allison
1. Yes I think you are right on both counts
3. lol true!
8. yes I thought that too. I hope Alec becomes good, but I'm wondering if he is the "Draco Malfoy"
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@Franky
10. Oo! I hadn't thought of that!
12. Which seems strange if he was her husband. I'm sure we will find out more soon!
14. I like it too, but I'm just kind of going along for the ride and didn't expect a very in-depth book ;)
July 17 Chapters 4-6 (pages 50-95)4.Did you agree with Clary's decision to go back to her house after her mother called her begging her not to go?
From a parent's stand point, no she really should've listened to her mother. But from the other perspective, yes. It's only human nature to do the opposite of what you are told in a situation like that.
5.The Ravenor Demon said to itself "Valentine will never know". This is the second time we have heard of Valentine now. I do feel like there are alot of Harry Potter similarities (mundies v muggles ; valentine v voldermort ; The Institute v Hogwarts). Have you noticed that? Does it impact your feelings towards the book?
Yes I have noticed and it doesn't really bother me. The stories are similar in some instances but also very different. I feel like the HP books are more on a juvenile level(although adults read the books and watched the movies and loved them) where these are more geared to teens/adults. There are lots of books out there that tend to have similar traits but take different paths. So far I like this book and hope that it only continues to get better :)
6. I was surprised with Luke's reaction when Clary called him. Do you think he is just trying to protect her (or himself?) by not helping her? Or is he just a jerk?
I was shocked at his reaction also. The first encounter with him was all about telling Clary the story/truth and then he slapped us in the face with he doesn't want to get involved...SO NOT COOL :( At this point I am not sure what is going on with all this. If he is doing this to protect all of them than I say GOOOOO LUKE...if it is ONLY for him then he is a JERK.
7. Valentine "died" 15 years ago along with his wife and child.... hmmm... sounds like he could be Clary's father and is actually still alive... Thoughts?
HMMMMMMM I thought the same thing. Did he go into hiding while Clary and her mom lived a life separate from him. Mysterious things are coming about :) IF he is her father then that answers the questions of her powers to see what she shouldn't as a mundie.
8.The descritions of the Institute were interesting - I always love it when authors describe libraries! What did you think of the Institute and it's inhabitants?
That's an awful big place to inhabit such few people. But I did find the library very interesting. I kind of wondered about the wallpaper and the rose lights LOL that kind of seemed "victorian-ish" to me. For now, I really like Hodge and his bird but Alec is a little too bullying for me. Isabelle I must say is not real like-able yet but I can deal with her a lot better than Alec.
9. Another horrible creature tries to kill Clary and it seems there is more than meets the eye with Dorothea! We hit another cliff hanger for a stopping point! Guesses on Dorothea's story? It seems to be too much of a coincidence that she was living in the same building as Clary and her mum.
I kind of like Dorothea...she cracks me up with some of the things she says LOL Coincident or not there is probably going to be a really good reason of why they lived in the same building. I am really liking the world building and how this story is unfolding. Makes me wonder why I kept putting it off **sighs**
Christine wrote: "@Robin: I did not think about that at all, good point! I haven't checked the author's picture before, either. I am a rather ignorant reader, as long as I enjoy the story, not much else matters.Ju..."
@ Christine Sometimes I am a rather ignorant reader too but something about the names and the descriptions just set me off and got my mind to thinking more into it :)
Mod
11. teehee
12. That is true about Dorothea. Maybe she is trying to keep her real self a secret (as when Jace looked into her he didn't see anything and was surprised she had that background). It seems odd she didn't try and help Jocelyn
13. lol!
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@Robin
6. I agree! I can't decide yet how I feel about him. We need to understand his motivations better
7. True. Although it seems too obvious. I hope it isn't that he had some fight with Jocelyn and then somehow killed clary's father but managed to pour a part of himself into Clary (maybe she has a lightning scar on her forehead?! lol!)
9. because there are so many books out there! And this has so much hype it can be disappointing sometimes ;)
message 91:
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Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado
(last edited Jul 18, 2013 10:52PM)
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15. What do you think are the significance of Clary's dreams? Is this somehow tied up with her mind being "blocked"?
16. Hodge said something about Valentine having a son, and then corrected himself and said he was just using a turn of phrase. I wonder?....
17. You are "born" or "made" into a shadowhunter and have no choice in the matter. At Bone City we see that when Shadowhunters die in battle they are burnt and then their bodies make up the marble arches. It doesn't seem to be a life of any freedoms or choices. Would you rather be a shadowhunter or a mundie?
18. The Bone City... literally! I loved the carriage ride and the descriptions of this place. What are your thoughts on the silent brothers?
19. I'm a bit surprised that Hodge would be put at the institute to train others although he is a "criminal" (and same for Alec and Isabelle's parents). Do you think this punishment fits the crime?
20. Part II begins with a line from The Aeneid by Virgil. Any scholars amongst us? I googled and found that it is the story of Aeneas' wanderings from Troy to Italy, and the poem's second half tells of the Trojans' ultimately victorious war upon the Latins. Ideas on the significance of this? (wiki link is here
21. There seems to be an increasing flirtation from Jace to Clary. And now Simon and Isabella seem to be spending more time together. Anyone want to take a bet on the love trinagle (square?) that will ensue?! ;)
22. Magnus Bane may hold the key to Clary's blocking. And he just happens to hand out flyers for his party the night that she is able to see them... Coincidence? Do you think this is a trap?
23. I found Jace's bedtime story pretty creepy! So you think it is a fable or did it happen (to him?)?
24. I'm not sure of the significance of Alec being gay other than he seems to fancy Jace. Theories?
July 19 Chapter 10&11 15. What do you think are the significance of Clary's dreams? Is this somehow tied up with her mind being "blocked"?
I think so.
16. Hodge said something about Valentine having a son, and then corrected himself and said he was just using a turn of phrase. I wonder?....
Hodge is definitely not telling everything. I do think Valentine has a son.
17. You are "born" or "made" into a shadowhunter and have no choice in the matter. At Bone City we see that when Shadowhunters die in battle they are burnt and then their bodies make up the marble arches. It doesn't seem to be a life of any freedoms or choices. Would you rather be a shadowhunter or a mundie?
A mundie, mundies seem to have a longer life expectancy. And they don’t wind up in buildings after death (usually).
18. The Bone City... literally! I loved the carriage ride and the descriptions of this place. What are your thoughts on the silent brothers?
Wouldn’t want to meet them in a dark alley (or anywhere else for that matter). They just creeped me out. I did like the descriptions not just of the carriage ride, but everything in the book is described really well and it still leaves enough for your own imagination.
19. I'm a bit surprised that Hodge would be put at the institute to train others although he is a "criminal" (and same for Alec and Isabelle's parents). Do you think this punishment fits the crime?
The punishment is exile and he did betray his country so yes I think it’s fitting.
20. Part II begins with a line from The Aeneid by Virgil. Any scholars amongst us? I googled and found that it is the story of Aeneas' wanderings from Troy to Italy, and the poem's second half tells of the Trojans' ultimately victorious war upon the Latins. Ideas on the significance of this? (wiki link is here )
21. There seems to be an increasing flirtation from Jace to Clary. And now Simon and Isabella seem to be spending more time together. Anyone want to take a bet on the love trinagle (square?) that will ensue?! ;)
No, Can’t see yet where everything is going with these “relationships”.
22. Magnus Bane may hold the key to Clary's blocking. And he just happens to hand out flyers for his party the night that she is able to see them... Coincidence? Do you think this is a trap?
Don’t think it’s a trap, it probably is just a coincidence.
23. I found Jace's bedtime story pretty creepy! So you think it is a fable or did it happen (to him?)?
I think it happened to him. Seems like he had a very harsh upbringing.
24. I'm not sure of the significance of Alec being gay other than he seems to fancy Jace. Theories?
I don’t think it’s significant.
July 19 Chapter 10&11 15. What do you think are the significance of Clary's dreams? Is this somehow tied up with her mind being "blocked"? I wonder if there is some truth behind these dreams, could it be that she ever was in Ildris (or Idris, I don't remember) with her mother?
16. Hodge said something about Valentine having a son, and then corrected himself and said he was just using a turn of phrase. I wonder?.... That would be really strange if she had a sibling, what if they have been separated when they were babies, the son with Valentine and the daughter with Jocelyn?
17. You are "born" or "made" into a shadowhunter and have no choice in the matter. At Bone City we see that when Shadowhunters die in battle they are burnt and then their bodies make up the marble arches. It doesn't seem to be a life of any freedoms or choices. Would you rather be a shadowhunter or a mundie? shadowhunter
18. The Bone City... literally! I loved the carriage ride and the descriptions of this place. What are your thoughts on the silent brothers? Simon said that he rather had his head messed with than be tortured, I would prefer to be physically tortured :) rather than someone messing with my head. The brothers are creepy. They use self-mutilation (no eyes etc.) *ugh*, i imagined standing before them like Clary and felt sick.
19. I'm a bit surprised that Hodge would be put at the institute to train others although he is a "criminal" (and same for Alec and Isabelle's parents). Do you think this punishment fits the crime? I found that interesting. Maybe he did something more than just stay until the Uprising? As for Alec/Isabelle parents I am not sure to think that it is fair in comparison to Hodge.
20. Part II begins with a line from The Aeneid by Virgil. Any scholars amongst us? I googled and found that it is the story of Aeneas' wanderings from Troy to Italy, and the poem's second half tells of the Trojans' ultimately victorious war upon the Latins. Ideas on the significance of this? (wiki link is here Thanks for the link Karen, I have no clue if this has any superior meaning though.
21. There seems to be an increasing flirtation from Jace to Clary. And now Simon and Isabella seem to be spending more time together. Anyone want to take a bet on the love trinagle (square?) that will ensue?! ;) I bet on Jace - Clary - Simon
22. Magnus Bane may hold the key to Clary's blocking. And he just happens to hand out flyers for his party the night that she is able to see them... Coincidence? Do you think this is a trap? Suspicious. Could be a trap and they are right running into it :)
23. I found Jace's bedtime story pretty creepy! So you think it is a fable or did it happen (to him?)? The story was well described and sounded realistic. I think his father really did this to him and it's sick. What kind of lesson is that from parent to child?
24. I'm not sure of the significance of Alec being gay other than he seems to fancy Jace. Theories? No theory yet.
I really itch to read more ... but so far I manage to hold back :) I like the plot so far and I start liking the chars more than I did earlier. I think it's an important aspect that you can connect to the chars.
Mod
16. I think you are right
18. That is true - I really like that the descriptions aren't overly done
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@Christine
15. Probably. There also seems to be a bit of seeing the future? I can't wait to find out!
16. Hmmm could be!
18. The mutilation was awful!
23. It is totally sick. explains alot about his personality I guess
Character driven novels are my favourite too :)
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@Allison
16. Possibly!
18. I think it is inevietable :(
19. That's what I don't understand
21. lol @ pentagon!
message 95:
by
Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado
(last edited Jul 19, 2013 11:42PM)
(new)
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rated it 3 stars
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25. Jace made a point of maing sure Clary knew that he would always want to know the truth. I wonder how this will be significant in the future?
26. Clary had to have the spell 'renewed' every 2 years to block her mind which explains how she has suddenly started to see their world (as the spell diminished). Her mother was trying to protect her, but it seems a short sighted solution. What do you think?
27. Simon getting turned into a rat seemed pretty funny, eventhough it ended pretty disastarously! I've noticed Clary seems to sort of forget he is around. I wonder if his family have noticed he is missing?
28. I found the party pretty strange how the vampires were blaming Magnus for their motorbikes, and then how quickly it all ended. Your thoughts?
29. Magnus reminded Clary that her mother ran from shadowhunters and now she is staying with them. But what are her options? Try and go back to Luke?
30. I was surprised Clary had never been into a church. That seemed like something a teenager would question their parents about. Or perhaps it isn't that unsual "these days"?
31. Another action packed end to this section with the hotel, Raphael, vampire nest and now wolves! I promise I did not intend for so many sections of reading to end on cliff-hangers! lol! Predictions... are the wolves there to help them or hurt them? Or some other reason?
July 20 Chapters 12-14 (pages 201-259)25. Jace made a point of maing sure Clary knew that he would always want to know the truth. I wonder how this will be significant in the future?
I don’t know about its significance in the future, it does tell us a lot about who Jace is.
26. Clary had to have the spell 'renewed' every 2 years to block her mind which explains how she has suddenly started to see their world (as the spell diminished). Her mother was trying to protect her, but it seems a short sighted solution. What do you think?
I understand why Jocelyn made this decision, but I don’t think it’s a smart one. She had to renew the spell and I think it was a short term solution.
27. Simon getting turned into a rat seemed pretty funny, eventhough it ended pretty disastarously! I've noticed Clary seems to sort of forget he is around. I wonder if his family have noticed he is missing?
Poor guy, but I can understand why Clary forgot about him, they were at the party to find a solution for her memory loss. And I think he was under Isabelle’s care, she lost sight of him. I’m wondering about his family too. Also when Jace and Clary found him in Luke’s backyard and he had stayed there for 3 days I wondered how his parents felt about that. Maybe he’s just someone people don’t miss very soon. He seems to be quiet.
28. I found the party pretty strange how the vampires were blaming Magnus for their motorbikes, and then how quickly it all ended. Your thoughts?
Well Magnus was the host, it’s the easiest way to just blame him. Magnus is very strange, he does seem to like Alec though another triangle?????????.
29. Magnus reminded Clary that her mother ran from shadowhunters and now she is staying with them. But what are her options? Try and go back to Luke?
She has no other option than to stay with the shadowhunters I think, and Clary’s mother was running from The Circle. I think staying with Luke will be even more dangerous, because they are watching him.
30. I was surprised Clary had never been into a church. That seemed like something a teenager would question their parents about. Or perhaps it isn't that unsual "these days"?
I don’t think it’s very usual these days.
31. Another action packed end to this section with the hotel, Raphael, vampire nest and now wolves! I promise I did not intend for so many sections of reading to end on cliff-hangers! lol! Predictions... are the wolves there to help them or hurt them? Or some other reason?
Very action packed, I don’t think thhe wolves are there to help maybe they are there to hurt.
Mod
26. yes, and has left Clary pretty vunerable
27. He is kind of like "Mr Cellophane" - no one really knows he is there (or not!)
28. lol!!
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@Allison
26. I understand she was trying to protect her, but it has left her in a pretty awful situation
27. I know. I'm trying to read it without seeing the HP influence, but it is pretty strong!
30. I know, but even just for a wedding or christening or something? Seems odd to me but I guess Jocelyn didn't have any family or friends
Mod
July 21 Chapters 15-18 (pages 260-320)
32. It seems the wolves were after Clary. More enemies? Do they think she has the cup?
33. The flying bike followed by the confrontation with Alec. I thought it was pretty unfair he was blaming Clary. You?
34. A bath of spaghetti! lol! Did you have any strange birthday requests when you were younger?
35. I'm not a fan of romance per-se, but I did like the romantic birthday picnic which, of course, brought about the declaration of love from Simon. Do you think Clary handled this situation well?
36. I found the way the mortal cup was hidden VERY clever! Do you think it is right that they intend to swap the cup for Jocelyn? Knowing how evil Valentine is that doesn't seem like something the Clave would agree to?
July 21 Chapters 15-18 (pages 260-320)32. It seems the wolves were after Clary. More enemies? Do they think she has the cup?
Not going to answer this, I have finished the book. *Hangs her head in shame*
I'm going to continue with the DQ's and try not to give anything away.
33. The flying bike followed by the confrontation with Alec. I thought it was pretty unfair he was blaming Clary. You?
It was very unfair, he loves Jace more than he leads on. Alec can’t see that Jace has his faults too.
34. A bath of spaghetti! lol! Did you have any strange birthday requests when you were younger?
Can’t remember, but I don’t think so. My parents never mentioned any.
35. I'm not a fan of romance per-se, but I did like the romantic birthday picnic which, of course, brought about the declaration of love from Simon. Do you think Clary handled this situation well?
I loved that scene. Clary could have handled things better, but she’s only 16 and I think she just never noticed Simon as boyfriend material, I think she sees him as a brother.
36. I found the way the mortal cup was hidden VERY clever! Do you think it is right that they intend to swap the cup for Jocelyn? Knowing how evil Valentine is that doesn't seem like something the Clave would agree to?
It was very clever, also how Clary found out that was the way it was hidden.
I fell behind on my reading :( due to real life issues. I hope to be caught up by today :)
Nothing But Reading Challenges
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4.Did you agree with Clary's decision to go back to her house after her mother called her begging her not to go?
Yes, you wouldn’t have been able to stop me after what she heard on the phone. I think anyone would have gone back home.
5.The Ravenor Demon said to itself "Valentine will never know". This is the second time we have heard of Valentine now. I do feel like there are alot of Harry Potter similarities (mundies v muggles ; valentine v voldermort ; The Institute v Hogwarts). Have you noticed that? Does it impact your feelings towards the book?
I didn’t notice this, but now you mentioned it. It doesn’t affect my feelings toward the book for now because this book seems to be more grown up there is also more action in this book.
6. I was surprised with Luke's reaction when Clary called him. Do you think he is just trying to protect her (or himself?) by not helping her? Or is he just a jerk?
I think Luke is definitely protecting someone, I think it’s her mother. When I read this part I got huh…But it felt to me that Hodge was expecting this phone call to go the way it did.
7. Valentine "died" 15 years ago along with his wife and child.... hmmm... sounds like he could be Clary's father and is actually still alive... Thoughts?
Same thoughts here, it’s kind of obvious. Maybe a bit to obvious…….
8. The descritions of the Institute were interesting - I always love it when authors describe libraries! What did you think of the Institute and it's inhabitants?
I feel the same way about descriptions of libraries (actually just libraries people have in mansions, those big floor to ceiling bookcases filled with the classics, nice comfy reading chairs) and books. I like the institute and I think Hodge is going to be a favorite character; I don’t care much for Alec and Isabelle yet.
9. Another horrible creature tries to kill Clary and it seems there is more than meets the eye with Dorothea! We hit another cliff hanger for a stopping point! Guesses on Dorothea's story? It seems to be too much of a coincidence that she was living in the same building as Clary and her mum.
Mrs. Figg anyone ;)
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