- Title: Clockwork Prince (Infernal Devices)
- Classification: Young Adult (Ages 14 and up)
- Genre: Steampunk
- Format: Hardcover, 528 pages
- Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books; Stated 1st Edition edition (December 6, 2011)
- ISBN-10: 1416975888
- ISBN-13: 978-1416975885
- Author's Website: http://cassie-claire.com/cms/home
- Notes: Heavy kissing which looked like it would lead to far more as that is where the one characters thoughts were going.
"You are in love and you think that is all there is in the world. But the world is bigger than you, Will, and may have need of you. You are a Shadowhunter. You serve a greater cause. Your life is not yours to throw away."
The life of a Shadowhunter is one of dedication to the cause. To keep the mundanes/mankind safe from the supernatural world that exists under their radar. There is a reason most Shadowhunters don't reach a ripe old age, for their job is dangerous, stressful and never done. Magnus is correct in stating that the world needs Will, for he and his fellow Shadowhunters will play a crucial role if Mortmain is to be stopped.
Will, Tessa, Jem, Charlotte, Henry, and Jessamine are what stand in the way of Mortmain's evil plans for domination. What role Mortmain (aka the Magister) would have Tessa play is still a mystery, but more than likely he wants to utilize her talent of being able to become a virtual clone of any individual by touching them or any object they've owned. She's able to access their memories and fool all but their closest family and friends. Imagine what you could do with that ability?
"Then, my proposal is this: Let Charlotte and Henry Branwell have charge of the investigation into Mortmain's whereabouts. If by the end of two weeks they have not located him, or at least some strong evidence pointing to his location, then the challenge may go forward."
This time round, Mortmain is attempting to utilize those around him to achieve what he wants while he stays well within the shadows. Charlotte's and Henry's competency as heads of the London Institute are coming into question. They'll have 2 weeks to uncover Mortmain's whearabouts, but they don't have much to work with and two weeks isn't a whole heck of a lot of time. What they uncover is that Mortmain's vendetta is personal and aimed at the Shadowhunters. Something happened years ago and he's out for revenge.
The Clockwork Prince is the second book in the Infernal Devices trilogy, which is the prequel to the Mortal Instruments. In Clockwork Angel, we met Tessa. Mortmain (aka the Magister) had plans for Tessa and had her trained by the Dark Sisters so she could utilize her talents. Will and Jem saved Tessa from Mortmain's clutches, thereby, spoiling his plans for her.
In this book, we find out more about Jem's and Will's friendship. We find out what makes Will push everyone but Jem away. He's been hiding a devastating secret. Plus, no mater which guy is your favorite you will be equally impressed by each's feelings for Tessa. This book seemed more dedicated toward romance and relationships than I can recall in her previous books. Be prepared for some of Claire's steamiest scenes.
Things aren't always what they seem in the world of the Infernal Devices so prepared because new alliances will be forged, friendships will betrayed, lives will be lost and Tessa will decide who she will be with--Jem or Will. I have a feeling we'll have to wait till the next book to see if she sticks with that decision. Plus, we potentially find out what Tessa is, but the source of that information is questionable and taken at face value, seems unlikely. While I feel the information is true, I have a feeling there is more to Tessa's background that has yet to be revealed. Plus, if you read the book pay close attention to what the fairy says to Tessa when she attends the ball. You'll have a better idea of what I'm thinking.
Where did the book get it's name? From the following passage:
"Look well on this, my son," said the green-skinned man, "for one day I shall rule a clockwork kingdom of such beings and you shall be its prince...My little clockwork prince..."
Overall I'm giving this one 3 1/2 roses. Why only 3 1/2? Well, the entertainment value is definitely there, but there were no shocking revelations, the actions scene weren't up to the usual caliber of Ms. Claire's other books, and most importantly-- we didn't learn a heck of a lot. I kind of feel like I did at the end of a new episode of Seinfeld or Friends. Not a lot happened, but I was amused and kept entertained. Claire has made us fall so completely and utterly in love with the characters and world she's created that I think most will overlook those facts.
Overall I'm giving this one 3 1/2 roses. Why only 3 1/2? Well, the entertainment value is definitely there, but there were no shocking revelations, the actions scene weren't up to the usual caliber of Ms. Claire's other books, and most importantly-- we didn't learn a heck of a lot. I kind of feel like I did at the end of a new episode of Seinfeld or Friends. Not a lot happened, but I was amused and kept entertained. Claire has made us fall so completely and utterly in love with the characters and world she's created that I think most will overlook those facts.
Cassandra Claire discusses the making of Clockwork Prince:
Watch the book trailer:
Order of Series:
by Cassandra Clare
