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Clare, Cassandra - City of Bones (Mortal Instruments #1) "revisit" - Buddy Read - Start Date (December 2, 2014) - December 24, 2015
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I'm a little behind, I'm still on chapter 5! But I promise to catch up...I'm thrilled that my theory about Clary's mom wasn't so wrong after all...at least Alec thinks very similar to us Drishti! :-)
@Natalia- No worries! I'm sure you'll catch up. :-)@Lisa- 1. It turns out that The Mortal Instruments started as fan fiction for Harry Potter. I guess this explains the similarity.
3. I love YA books, too. But, love triangles bore me sometimes. Also, I'm glad that Clary isn't a damsel in distress. TBH I'm really sick of them. :-/
Sorry everyone! Fell behind thanks to the holiday! spending this weekend getting all caught up! December 24 Chapters 1-3
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 really enjoying this so far and I don't want to put it down. But sometimes I have to :(
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 don't know what I think Clary's mom is yet but it's definitely something supernatural! Luke too! And my guess is that she's not a shadowhunter and that's why she can be seen by mundies. I think something demonic found her for sure.
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 hope Clary won't be a turned into a major clutz aka damsel in distress. When it was pointed out that she's not beautiful, she's clumsy, etc etc I gave a major eye roll but so far so good!
Lisa Marie wrote: "I am finally caught up! I could NOT put the book down last night! No worries I didn't read ahead :)4.Did you agree with Clary's decision to go back to her house after her mother called her beggin..."
I agree with you 1000%! On every point!
December 27 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"?
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?
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?
Lisa Marie wrote: "Drishti wrote: "Lisa Marie wrote: "I am finally caught up! I could NOT put the book down last night! No worries I didn't read ahead :)4.Did you agree with Clary's decision to go back to her house..."
LOL! Yes! =)
December 28 Chapters 12-14 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?
Great, Lisa! I still have to start chapter-10. =(
December 25 Chapters 4-64.Did you agree with Clary's decision to go back to her house after her mother called her begging her not to go?
After that phone call, I can't say I wouldn't have went too.! It was definitely a Stupid movie decision that will get a character killed, but one that I'd make myself. (Hey I'm one of those people who check to see what that noise is/was *shrugs*)
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 see the HP similarities but they haven't been so strong that they've disctracted me from 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's looking out for himself. Maybe knowing them or being associated with them has gotten him in too deep and he wants out. He seemed like he really wanted Clary to know before but now seems more like a jerk, looking out for himself.
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?
I'm not sure about Valentine being her father. There are hints so we'll see...! But I do believe he's still alive. Definitely. His name is playing too much of an important role.
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 love the worldbuilding in this book so far. Not too little where I can't imagine it and not too much that it's taking all day to describe and I begin to not care anymore. I love the institute and Hodge and hope they can truly be good allies to Clary throughout the series.
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.
My guess on Dorothea is that she had a bad mixup with feeling betrayed by shadowhunters just as Valentine did.... I don't feel as though she'll be a good character. Definitely in the middle, leaning more towards a villian or just a plain ol' villian eventually. Maybe one of those characters like Isabelle who hate you but help you.
December 26 Chapters 7-9
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 REALLY don't want a love triangle between Jace, Clary, &_(Probably Isabelle >.<) I definitely think Clary's mom put a block in her memory.! I first realized this when she remembered scars on her mom's back that she'd never seen.
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 she gets to have some peaceful love with her and anyone I'll be happy. But only at the end of the series because I'm loving the drama too much right now lol. I also hope the new relationship will be between her and Jace.
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?
Everything about Dorothea and her mother suprised me. I had a small feeling her mother was involved in the supernatural but had no idea about them living in a sanctuary and that nearly everyone she knows is supernatural. I think Jocelyn's hiding from her ex, 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 love the portal. I hope it gets put to great use.! I don't like Luke. He seems like a smart person but he's watching out for himself overall. I do get the sense that he wants them safe but he's not willing to risk his own safety for Clary and Jocelyn's.
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'm loving the fast pace especially when things are revealed. It's not too predictable. You get a feeling where you know something's up but then you get the answer and it's crazier than you expected.
December 27 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 Clary's dreams are of some of her repressed memories but also having to do with her being able to see the past. She thought of her dream of her and Jace dancing being a past vision of her mother and Valentine dancing.
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?....
Just what I stated above! What scares me is if Jace is Valentines son...or Simon...or Hodge...or just any guy she's gotten to know. Scary! (and gross if it's Jace...or Simon!)
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?
I'd rather be a shadowhunter. To live the life of purpose and excitement (don't get me wrong, my life's pretty great, but I love the thought of going around with a purpose of saving people and setting things right. It'd be like choosing between being Superman or a civilian. Then again I'd probably choose a civilian because Superman deals with too much...*rambles*)
18. The Bone City... literally! I loved the carriage ride and the descriptions of this place. What are your thoughts on the silent brothers?
At first I was terrifed and angry that Jace offered her up to them. But now I really like them. They seem very serious, straight-to-the-point, and tried to be helpful. (Even if they do look terrifying and can invade your thoughts.)
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?
Yes. They got out too late but still chose to leave. The punishment is harsh enough in that they can never permanently leave and still have to help out future shadowhunters. Which, since they eventually wanted to leave Valentine, they should'nt be against doing.
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?
All that I remember learning of this story (and of the movie Troy) is the wooden horse they hide inside. But! from the title of part two, and the engrave on the statue "The descent into hell is easy", I'm taking it as one of the characters may become bad? Because it's easy to become a villian? Or that it literally is foreshadowing the characters visiting the underworld/demons. I'm sticking more towards the former.
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?! ;)
Square?! Oh no! :P I can see it being Clary/Jace/Alec. Or Simon/Clary/Jace. Or Clary/Simon/Isabelle since she still gets very upset at any mention of Isabelle and 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?
My head is Screaming that it's a trap! No warlock would be handing out invitations to a party "beyond your wildest imaginations" especially at a place like Pandemonium unless he assumes his turnout will be young people interested in the supernatural world. Too interested for their own good probably...
23. I found Jace's bedtime story pretty creepy! So you think it is a fable or did it happen (to him?)?
Jace's bedtime story was definitely his explanation to Clary in why he doesn't believe in love and letting her in on a little bit more of his childhood. I remembed he got a bird from his dad and when the message of the story was to not love or be loved, I knew it was true.
24. I'm not sure of the significance of Alec being gay other than he seems to fancy Jace. Theories?
I'm thinking it will ultimately be used for more of people's favorite non-canon couples but I think it was placed in the book for a difference/uniqueness in characters. A great one may I add. I just feel bas for his unrequited love...
Lisa Marie wrote: "I am finally caught up! I could NOT put the book down last night! No worries I didn't read ahead :)4.Did you agree with Clary's decision to go back to her house after her mother called her beggin..."
I agree 100% with Alec being "salty" and lol'd at this description haha! That word fits him perfectly. I also can see that Isabelle has feelings for Jace. But I'm hoping the love triangle, if there is one, is between Simon/Clary/Jace not Isabelle/Jace/Clary >.<
December 28 Chapters 12-1425. 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'm thinking this will be significant with the truth about Alec's sexuality, Clary being warned to stay away from them, and/or Clary finding out the truth about Valentine and her mother.
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 think if it was the best her mom could come up with making her permanently damaged or insane, then it was good enough. Perfect timing for the book to start, with her being able to see again!
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?
I havent thought about what his family must wonder. Maybe they think he's with Clary? Also, to me, Clary does notice him. Although not when it's her and Jace all alone ;) but other than that, she definitely notices and seems to focus on trying not to notice! I hope he gets turned back and quickly though! I fear that throw from Ralphael is going to damage his human form too!
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?
I think the argument ended very quickly because they aren't stupid! They all respect Magnus' power!
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?
I don't feel as though her mother ran from the ones like Jace and Co. I feel it was shadowhunters gone bad like Valentine and everyone else who purposely or mistakenly joined him that she had to run from. She definitely shouldn't go back to Luke! Rather it be out of kindness or because he's an ass, Luke doesn't want to be bothered!
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"?
Clary was raised with alot of things kept from her. I think religion was one because some shadowhunters may be like Jace, non-religious. Also Clary may have begun to question things more.
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?
I feel (and hope!) the wolves are there to help them or atleast be a very helpful distraction! I'm loving the action in this book!
December 26 Chapters 7-9 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?
Yes, it is obvious that Jocelyn blocked Clary's mind. And, I think it is correct. Who would have not done this when you have enemies like Valentine trying to kill you and your daughter?
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.
It makes perfect sense. A love triangle is definitely on the horizon. I think it will be between Clary, Simon and Jace.
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?
The house being a sanctuary didn't surprise me. But yes, the house being a sanctuary to hide criminals was an interesting revelation. 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...... I'm still not sure about him. But, it is clear that he wants to protect himself. Keeping that aside, I think he still cares about Clary, because he didn't give information about her to Valentine's men.
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 definitely engaging and the writing style is fun, too.
December 27 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"?
Yes, it definitely is. I think Clary's dreams are definitely indicating something. But, she isn't able to understand their meaning because her mind is "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?....
My theory is that Hodge accidently let slip this information. And when everybody was astonished at this, he realized his folly and corrected himself. Because maybe, he thought that it was too much information for the kids to digest.
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?
I think I would rather be a shadowhunter. Many people prefer a simple life. But, I'm all for thrills and adventures.
18. The Bone City... literally! I loved the carriage ride and the descriptions of this place. What are your thoughts on the silent brothers?
I was as astonished as Clary. I didn't expect the silent brothers to travel in carriages! And, I think they are the equivalent of Dementors.
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?
Actually, I wasn't surprised. At all. They left Valentine, knowing the risk, because they recognised the error of their ways. And, I think that everybody deserves a second chance.
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?
I obviously didn't know that. But, I think it fits perfectly. I think it means that Clary will emerge victorious in the war with Valentine. And, will find her mother.
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 think Simon is with Isabelle because he wants to make Clary jealous and also because of Isabelle's beauty. And, the thing between Jace and Clary hasn't gone unnoticed by me. So, I still hold on to my hunch that there is a love triangle between Clary, Simon and Jace.
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?
No, I don't think that it is a trap. Nor a coincidence. But, other than that, I don't know.
23. I found Jace's bedtime story pretty creepy! So you think it is a fable or did it happen (to him?)?
It's so clear. It definitely did happen to him. Even Clary realized that.
24. I'm not sure of the significance of Alec being gay other than he seems to fancy Jace. Theories?
Neither am I. I think the author wanted to explain Alec's hatred for Clary. So, she added this tidbit.
♛Primadonna♛ wrote: If she gets to have some peaceful love with her and anyone I'll be happy. But only at the end of the series because I'm loving the drama too much right now lol. I also hope the new relationship will be between her and JaceI wish the same! The book is going so great that I don't want a love triangle addition at all right now.
♛Primadonna♛ wrote: Just what I stated above! What scares me is if Jace is Valentines son...or Simon...or Hodge...or just any guy she's gotten to know. Scary! (and gross if it's Jace...or Simon!)
I didn't think that. But now, you mention it. And, I'm wishing that nothing like this happens. It is definitely so gross!
December 29 Chapters 15-18 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?
December 30 Chapters 19-2137. So the greater demon Abbadon overtook Dorothea and was waiting for them! Were you surprised that Alec finally tried to kill a demon and Simon came to the rescue? Did Alec try to kill it because of the conversation with Clary or was he just not thinking and really concerned for Jace? Do you think Alec can survive?
38. Hodge shows his true self which explains why The Clave apparently "agreed" to them getting the cup. Did you expect this betrayal?
39. What would Valentine want with Jace? Why did he not even notice Clary?
40. Luke's story pretty much mirrored Lupin's in HP. Now we know his side of the story what are your thoughts on Luke? Should she trust him?
41. Valentine and Jocelyn did have a son (Jonathan) who we assume is now dead, and Valentine is Clary's dad. I wonder if he knows?
I have a bad feeling that Jace is actually Jonathan, but that seems a bit "Star Wars" so hopefully that is not the case!
Drishti wrote: I wish the same! The book is going so great that I don't want a love triangle addition at all right now.Exactly.! I figure it's going to have one but I love Clary and Jace's slight flirtation but no need to rush the romance along!
Drishti wrote: I didn't think that. But now, you mention it. And, I'm wishing that nothing like this happens. It is definitely so gross!
Me too! But once she questioned her dream by placing Valentine in Jace's place I was like "Whaaaaat?" lol
I'm so behind! Last night I catch up to chapter 6, so I'm just gonna comment those questions. I'm happy to see there's more people to discuss this reading!4. I do agree with her! As Drishti said, I think she had no choice. What else could she did?
5. You wont't believe me but I've never read Harry Potter...but I know what's the story about so yeah, is very similar! And now that I know that this was fanfiction at first, the similarities are very clear to me. I also find this very similar to Percy Jackson, but I think that's also based on HP so, it all comes back to it.
6. I think is very obvious that Luke is trying to protect Clary, but I think he's also trying to protect him and Clary's mom story. He knows something about Clary's dad that I'm sure will change the entire saga course...
7. That will be a major plot bombshell! It will be very predictable if it's real, and also devastating to Clary and her love story with Jace...I like this theory Drishti!
8. I love this libraries! I think every similar story has one of them, so majestic and glorious! I liked the Institute, is a very interesting place that I'm sure also hides a dark secret.
9. I've to admit that I was a little bored at this point...but this twist caught me up with the reading again! I think Dorotea knew Clary's mom story and that's the reason they live practically together. What if both of them have some similarities in their life story? I think we will discover some of that.
Natalia, is there any particular reason why you haven't given Harry Potter series a try? You should really read those books. They made me fall in love with books all over again. =)
December 28 Chapters 12-14 25. Jace made a point of making sure Clary knew that he would always want to know the truth. I wonder how this will be significant in the future?
Would somebody remind my ignorant mind that when Jace did this? It turns out that I've most certainly forgotten. What a shame!
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 think that there was virtually no other choice. As Magnus said, he hadn't ever seen or done such a thing. And, undoubtedly, Magnus seemed to be a powerful warlock. If he hadn't known such a thing, then I think Jocelyn's solution was their only choice.
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?
I thought the same. If I vanish for days without any information, my family would be pretty freaked out.
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?
I think it was because Magnus is really powerful. And, nobody wanted to get on his bad side. So, the argument didn't last long.
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. She can't go back to Luke. He doesn't want her around. It's never a good idea to be with a person when he/she doesn't want you. It would be like burdening him with herself.
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"?
Maybe, it isn' that unusual these days. But, in our (I mean Indian) culture, it is really unusual for parents to not take their children to a temple. (Though I have my own doubts like Jace.)
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?
I don't know what to make of the wolves appearing out of the blue like this. But, there's one thing I'm sure of. Their reason to do this would be very big and strong. As Jace said, vampires and werewolves never trespass on each other's lairs. So, I assume they have a good reason to do this because of Clary.
Not really Drishti, I'm a literature teacher so for a long time a tought those kind of books were crap. A few years ago I opened myself to read more YA novels with my students and that gave me a new understanding about teenagers interests about reading. I read The Hunger Games and that made me understand that I also enyojed some readings, so here I am. :-)
December 29 Chapters 15-18 32. It seems the wolves were after Clary. More enemies? Do they think she has the cup?
Actually, I have a theory here. More like a wild guess on my part. And, I think maybe it is a little far-fetched, too. Anyway, I think that the wolves think that Clary might have the cup/ know its location. And, maybe, they intend to trade the cup with something else to satisfy their own motives. (As I said, a wild guess.)
33. The flying bike followed by the confrontation with Alec. I thought it was pretty unfair he was blaming Clary. You?
Yes, it was unfair. He shouldn't blame Clary. It's not as if Jace is a puppet and Clary is making him dance around. Jace has quite a wild desire for everything dangerous. I think that maybe, Alec's attraction to Jace and concern for Jace are clouding his mind.
34. A bath of spaghetti! lol! Did you have any strange birthday requests when you were younger?
Not that I remember. And, I just asked my mother if I had and she said no. Normally, I don't even want anything for my birthday. Nor do I ever wish to celebrate. My birthday couldn't be more similar to my normal day.
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 don't know. But, I think she had a normal enough reaction.
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?
No, it is definitely not write to swap the cup for Jocelyn. As much as Clary loves her mother, it isn't a good enough reason to give Valentine the cup. That would be utter foolishness. I bet Jocelyn wouldn't ever want that. Nor will the Clave. And, I don't think Jace, Hodge, Isabelle and Alec will as well.
Natalia, I understand that. I started Harry Potter series this summer and finished in mid-October. And then, I realized my mistake and repented why I haven't read this series earlier. I hope you give it a try!I read the Hunger Games this summer. I loved it! So, I'm glad you loved it, too.
YA is a great genre (and one of my favorite ones, too!). One should really venture into it. It definitely has a lot more to offer other than teens whining.
Is hard when you come from an academic background, but that shows how wrong can prejudice be ;-)
December 29 Chapters 15-1832. It seems the wolves were after Clary. More enemies? Do they think she has the cup?
I hadn't thought they were after her because of the cup. My initial thought is that they were after her the same way the Forsaken were, because of Valentine.
33. The flying bike followed by the confrontation with Alec. I thought it was pretty unfair he was blaming Clary. You?
Alec blames Clary for Jace's feelings towards her. On one hand he doesn't want Jace hurt and on the other, I think he doesn't want Jace to care about Clary as much as he does. I also think he put away the arrows in favor of blades because of Jace saying he was attracted to people who kill things. Now let's just hope Alex doesn't nearly get himself killed trying to get his first kill.!
34. A bath of spaghetti! lol! Did you have any strange birthday requests when you were younger?
When I was younger I asked for as many gifts for my birthday that I got for christmas. I just wanted my living room to be piled with gifts for me more than once a year. Never got it though lol
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 think she did. I don't like ClaryxSimon. It reminds me of BellaxJacob. You've been there all along, if you were meant to be or if she wanted you, you'd be the one being kissed outside her bedroom door, not left laying in bed! haha
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?
I don't believe they're going to do it. I think they are going to try to get Jocelyn back and let Jace finally have his revenge. I see a
December 30 Chapters 19-2137. So the greater demon Abbadon overtook Dorothea and was waiting for them! Were you surprised that Alec finally tried to kill a demon and Simon came to the rescue? Did Alec try to kill it because of the conversation with Clary or was he just not thinking and really concerned for Jace? Do you think Alec can survive?
I wasn't surprised that Alec finally tried to kill a demon, especially since he'd just heard Jace say he's attracted to people who kill. I saw that coming ;) I believe Alec tried to kill it for Jace. To protect Jace, to impress Jace....for Jace.
38. Hodge shows his true self which explains why The Clave apparently "agreed" to them getting the cup. Did you expect this betrayal?
I DID NOT expect Hodge to betray them at all! My mouth dropped open for a good ten seconds and I had to pause my reading!
39. What would Valentine want with Jace? Why did he not even notice Clary?
I believe Valentine either wants Jace safe (and his name not in Hodge's mouth) because Jace is his son or because he's still taking care of what Michael would've wanted?? Seems the former. I really don't understand why he didn't notice Clary! I didn't even notice that he didn't notice Clary until now! O_o
40. Luke's story pretty much mirrored Lupin's in HP. Now we know his side of the story what are your thoughts on Luke? Should she trust him?
Ok ok Now I see the Harry Potter comparisions and they're legit. But! they don't distract from the story. Much. Hardly at all. I would...half-way trust Luke? But my number one priority would be getting back to Alec and Isabelle....who I think Clary can trust....
41. Valentine and Jocelyn did have a son (Jonathan) who we assume is now dead, and Valentine is Clary's dad. I wonder if he knows?
I have a bad feeling that Jace is actually Jonathan, but that seems a bit "Star Wars" so hopefully that is not the case!
Oh I've got a Horrible feeling it's going to be Very Star Wars-ish.! UGH I think Valentine doesn't know about Clary. I ALSO THINK Jonathan Christopher is JC=JaCe.! O_o
Happy New Year, guys!! December 31 Chapters 22-end
42. Ah, the big reveal about Jace! I was pretty disappointed with this turn of events as I think Jace and Clary worked well as a couple and that makes that whole picnic which I thought was lovely just a bit icky! Your thoughts?
43. Should Jace have killed Valentine when he had the chance? This man was pretty cruel to him, but he is still his father?...
44. Alec and Isabelle's characters seem to have completely changed now that Clary is "famous" and Jace's sister. They were both actually nice... Do you like the "new" Alec and Isabelle?
45. Final thoughts on the book? What will be your review and rating?
♛Primadonna♛ wrote: "December 30 Chapters 19-2137. So the greater demon Abbadon overtook Dorothea and was waiting for them! Were you surprised that Alec finally tried to kill a demon and Simon came to the rescue? Did..."
I agree 1000%.
And, I presume you didn't understand why Valentine didn't spot Clary (when Hodge called him to the Institute). It was because just before Valentine arrived, Hodge separated himself and an unconscious Jace from Clary by making an invisible barrier between them. And then, when Valentine arrived, it became like it is in an FBI interrogation room. Clary could see them through the barrier, but Valentine couldn't see Clary. This is my theory. I hope it explains everything.
Drishti wrote: "♛Primadonna♛ wrote: "December 30 Chapters 19-2137. So the greater demon Abbadon overtook Dorothea and was waiting for them! Were you surprised that Alec finally tried to kill a demon and Simon ca..."
Ooooooh.! That makes sense! I remember her thinking that it was like an interrogation glass, that you could'nt see into it only out. Thanks for reminding me! :)
December 31 Chapters 22-end42. Ah, the big reveal about Jace! I was pretty disappointed with this turn of events as I think Jace and Clary worked well as a couple and that makes that whole picnic which I thought was lovely just a bit icky! Your thoughts?
I think this may have ruined the series for me because even after finding out Clary didn't want to truly let her attraction go, or maybe just found it hard. Then there was a story titled When Midnight Comes in the back of the book showing Jace's pov when they had their picnic and it was really weird to read after finding out. I won't want to read their attraction in any more books nor see them with anyone else. ugh how I wish I would've stopped reading earlier and been in ignorant bliss! wait. eww. haha.
43. Should Jace have killed Valentine when he had the chance? This man was pretty cruel to him, but he is still his father?...
Despite the fact that Jace and Clary are brother and sister, nothing made me more angrier than Valentine not dying. And seeing Jace let go of everything in his personality that I loved because he finally found his father was sad.
44. Alec and Isabelle's characters seem to have completely changed now that Clary is "famous" and Jace's sister. They were both actually nice... Do you like the "new" Alec and Isabelle?
I like the "new" Alec and Isabelle and hope they're here to stay. I don't think they're only being nice because she's famous. Isabelle said she was worried about Isabelle before she found out she was Jace's sister. And Alec and her spoke through everything and there was no mention of her "fame" from Alec or Isabelle.
45. Final thoughts on the book? What will be your review and rating?
I Loved this book but wish that it hadn't ended up the way it did. But things can't be given over to us nicely without having to be a 2-3star only book which is why my rating for this will be 3-4.
I'm up for the next book! =)
So, when do you guys want to read the next one?
im doing one buddy read right now and one read2review. so anytime next week would be great for me! just let me know what's good for you guys!
I've quite many buddy reads this month. But, I've nothing scheduled for January 18-22. So, can we start January 18?
Jan 18 sounds great.!
Shall I request a thread then?
Sure! That'd be great.
Nothing But Reading Challenges
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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.
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?