A follow up to my expectations!

I really was looking forward to continue this series because I liked the Volume 1. I must say that it goes crescendo, such that in two days the book was read, or rather devoured. The more we advance in the reading, the more one feels this anxiety, this suspense take us to the guts, so much that it is hard to let go to do something else.

We thus find Clary and the whole gang to have to fight again Valentin and he prepares. Indeed, the end of volume 1 promised great adventures not always very positive, and we can say that the author has succeeded: we take completely and immerse ourselves even further in his universe. It spreads us clues all along and we play well proves that we have seen a small part of its history. The universe is well put together, so much so that one is surprised quite often twists that it offers to each chapter.

In this sequel, Valentin is furious for several reasons which I will not mention to not spoiler Volume 1. Now revenge is on, and our friends soon realize that they are more in danger than ever and they must constantly be on guard. If they thought they had some well deserved rest, the sudden death of a werewolf is going to change the life they lead. Valentin is back, and intends to prove it. Is he responsible for the deaths or is it one of the hated races that is the cause?

One thing is certain: during playback, we do not have time to get bored. As I was saying earlier, action and twists are indeed present throughout the volume. Clary saw hard times, along with Jace, Simon & Co. She is lost in her feelings and does not really know where to put himself. Well, romance is not what counts in this sequel, but it is also present. But do not worry, it is far from the rose water. Even here, events occur, changing the course of things.

I had already read this volume there some years and being reread allowed me to find things that I had forgotten. Therefore, I was much surprised if it had been a first reading, and this is what I liked most: being surprised at the things I had read. Then I liked to know more about Valentin, his past, his character, his thoughts, but also the world of shadow hunters and surrounding races. While it's packed early action to end, Cassandra Clare took the time to explain a few things, pushing us to continue our curiosity being pushed higher.

I would have so much to tell you about this second volume. There are a lot of things going on, so you learn a lot of stuff on the created universe, but I'd be too afraid of you to reveal much and thus ruin your discovery. What I can tell you is that the pen of the author is even more captivating than the 1. We really feel the change but mainly the passion she has for what she created.

In summary, a second volume to the height (or more) of my expectations. I laughed, vibrated, scared, was angry. In short, I completely adhered. Now I am very eager to read more (especially as Siham told the order in which they had to read, so there's more that!). I feel that we are not at the end of our surprises, and that the author has not finished talking and dissect his comprehensive and addictive world! A series that I recommend strongly!

* I thank Mary and PKJ for their trust! *

Justine P.