This novel was a great introduction to the Shadowhunter word. Though I had already read one book set in this fantasy world, this book did a great job introducing the reader to new terms, a myriad of creatures, weapons, and ideologies. We also had an interesting cohort of characters to work with right from the start.

What I found so interesting about these novels is the way we were able to switch and follow different characters, despite not utilizing first person POV. For me this writing style almost became an extension of the story, as if we the reader were some omniscient, all powerful being watching these characters scramble about after each other.

I found this first novel very predictable. There were no shocking moments, revelations, or plot twists that got my adrenaline pumping. While it was very enjoyable, the characters drove this story forward and kept my interest more than the plot itself.

As we are introduced to many characters through backstories, flashbacks, discussions of family heritage and origins, there were a handful of times when some of the comments came off with racially charged undertones. Am I being too perceptive? Was this a character flaw designed to signal the time period? As a white woman I don't feel qualified to decide, but I just wanted to mention that throughout this trilogy there were a handful of phrases or stereotypes used that made me pause, and squint at the page.

This first novel was incredibly character driven for me as the reader. While I was vaguely curious about what twists might happen in the next novel, I was more excited to have a chance to spend more time with these characters and watch watch shenanigans they'd get up to next.