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Which Shadowhunters Novel Should I Read First In The Series?
2025-04-22 01:08:18
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Craved (Book #10 in the Vampire Journals)
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If you’re diving into the Shadowhunters universe, start with 'City of Bones'. It’s the first book in 'The Mortal Instruments' series, and it sets the stage for everything that follows. Cassandra Clare introduces you to Clary Fray, a seemingly ordinary teenager who discovers she’s part of a hidden world of demon hunters, angels, and magical runes. The pacing is perfect, and the mix of urban fantasy and teen drama keeps you hooked. I remember picking it up on a whim and being completely absorbed by the world-building. The way Clare weaves together modern New York with this ancient, mystical society feels fresh and exciting.
What really drew me in was the complexity of the characters. Clary isn’t just a typical chosen one; she’s flawed, curious, and determined. Jace, the golden boy of the Shadowhunters, has this sharp wit and vulnerability that makes him more than just a love interest. And Simon, Clary’s best friend, adds this grounding, human element to the story. Their dynamics are messy and real, which makes the supernatural elements feel even more intense. The relationships are layered, and the stakes are high from the very beginning.
Another reason to start with 'City of Bones' is that it lays the groundwork for the entire Shadowhunters universe. You’ll meet key characters and learn about the Clave, the Downworld, and the Shadowhunters’ purpose. It’s the foundation that the rest of the series, like 'The Infernal Devices' and 'The Dark Artifices', builds upon. I found myself appreciating the later books even more because I had that solid base. Plus, the twists in this book are mind-blowing. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, Clare throws in something that completely changes the game.
Reading 'City of Bones' first also lets you experience the Shadowhunters world in the order Cassandra Clare intended. While you could technically jump into 'The Infernal Devices' or another series, starting here gives you a better sense of the overarching lore and how everything connects. It’s like getting the keys to a sprawling, magical kingdom—you’ll want to explore every corner once you’ve stepped inside. Trust me, once you finish this one, you’ll be itching to grab the next book in the series.
What really drew me in was the complexity of the characters. Clary isn’t just a typical chosen one; she’s flawed, curious, and determined. Jace, the golden boy of the Shadowhunters, has this sharp wit and vulnerability that makes him more than just a love interest. And Simon, Clary’s best friend, adds this grounding, human element to the story. Their dynamics are messy and real, which makes the supernatural elements feel even more intense. The relationships are layered, and the stakes are high from the very beginning.
Another reason to start with 'City of Bones' is that it lays the groundwork for the entire Shadowhunters universe. You’ll meet key characters and learn about the Clave, the Downworld, and the Shadowhunters’ purpose. It’s the foundation that the rest of the series, like 'The Infernal Devices' and 'The Dark Artifices', builds upon. I found myself appreciating the later books even more because I had that solid base. Plus, the twists in this book are mind-blowing. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, Clare throws in something that completely changes the game.
Reading 'City of Bones' first also lets you experience the Shadowhunters world in the order Cassandra Clare intended. While you could technically jump into 'The Infernal Devices' or another series, starting here gives you a better sense of the overarching lore and how everything connects. It’s like getting the keys to a sprawling, magical kingdom—you’ll want to explore every corner once you’ve stepped inside. Trust me, once you finish this one, you’ll be itching to grab the next book in the series.
2025-04-23 12:09:39
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Read NowRelated Questions
What order should I read the Shadowhunters series?
4 Answers2026-04-12 07:34:52
Man, the Shadowhunters universe is a wild ride, and figuring out the reading order can feel like deciphering one of those ancient runes from the books themselves! If you want to follow the core storyline chronologically, I'd start with 'The Infernal Devices' trilogy—it's set in the 1800s and gives you this rich, steampunk-ish backstory. Then jump into 'The Mortal Instruments' (starting with 'City of Bones'), which is where the modern-day action kicks off. After that, 'The Dark Artifices' trilogy dives deeper into the Los Angeles Institute, and 'The Last Hours' brings everything full circle with a new generation.
Personally, I think publication order works too—'The Mortal Instruments' first, then the prequels and sequels—because you get those 'aha!' moments when past events connect. But honestly? There's no wrong way as long as you're having fun. Cassandra Clare loves her Easter eggs, so no matter the order, you'll spot threads weaving through all the series. Just be prepared for emotional whiplash—her books are like emotional rollercoasters with fancy daggers.
What order should I read Shadowhunters: City of Bones books?
3 Answers2026-05-02 16:37:13
Let me geek out for a second about Cassandra Clare's Shadowhunter universe—it's like this sprawling, interconnected web of stories where every thread matters. The 'City of Bones' is just the first step into this world, and honestly, the best way to dive in is publication order. Start with 'The Mortal Instruments' series ('City of Bones', 'City of Ashes', etc.), then move to 'The Infernal Devices' (set in the past but best read after TMI for context). After that, 'The Dark Artifices' and 'The Last Hours' expand the lore even further. I accidentally read 'Chain of Gold' first and spent half the book googling references, so learn from my mistake!
If you’re into audiobooks, the narrators for these series are phenomenal—especially the ones for 'The Infernal Devices'. They add so much texture to the Victorian-era Shadowhunter drama. And if you ever feel overwhelmed, Clare’s short story collections like 'The Bane Chronicles' are perfect palate cleansers between the heavier main books. The world-building is dense, but that’s what makes it so rewarding when everything clicks into place.
How many books are in the Shadowhunters series?
4 Answers2026-04-12 08:34:38
The Shadowhunters universe is massive, and I love how Cassandra Clare keeps expanding it! The main series, 'The Mortal Instruments,' has six books: 'City of Bones,' 'City of Ashes,' 'City of Glass,' 'City of Fallen Angels,' 'City of Lost Souls,' and 'City of Heavenly Fire.' But that's just the beginning! There's also the prequel trilogy, 'The Infernal Devices,' with 'Clockwork Angel,' 'Clockwork Prince,' and 'Clockwork Princess.' Then comes 'The Dark Artifices' trilogy—'Lady Midnight,' 'Lord of Shadows,' and 'Queen of Air and Darkness.' And don't forget 'The Last Hours' series, set after 'The Infernal Devices,' which includes 'Chain of Gold,' 'Chain of Iron,' and 'Chain of Thorns.' Plus, there are standalone books like 'The Red Scrolls of Magic' and 'The Lost Book of the White,' which focus on Magnus and Alec. Honestly, it's a whole world to dive into, and I'm always excited for more.
If you count all the main series, prequels, sequels, and spin-offs, we're looking at over a dozen books. And with Cassandra Clare still writing, who knows how many more will join the collection? I adore how each series connects but also stands on its own, making it perfect for both binge-readers and those who like to take their time.
What order should I read Shadowhunter books?
3 Answers2026-04-07 02:44:04
Shadowhunter books? Oh, I love this universe! Cassandra Clare really built something sprawling and addictive. If you're diving in fresh, I'd say start with 'The Mortal Instruments' series—'City of Bones' is the gateway drug. It introduces Clary, Jace, and the whole Shadowhunter world in a way that feels organic. After that, you could pivot to 'The Infernal Devices' (starting with 'Clockwork Angel'), which is a prequel set in Victorian London. The tonal shift is gorgeous—steampunk meets demons. Then loop back to 'The Dark Artifices' ('Lady Midnight') for a modern sequel vibe. The beauty is, each series stands alone but rewards you for knowing the lore.
Personally, I shuffled 'The Last Hours' (starting with 'Chain of Gold') in after 'Infernal Devices' because it follows the next generation of those characters, and the emotional payoff hit harder that way. But honestly? There's no 'wrong' order—just different flavors of heartbreak and swoon-worthy moments. Clare's sneaky little Easter eggs between series make rereads a delight.
What order should I read The Mortal Instruments books?
4 Answers2026-05-03 01:54:07
If you're diving into Cassandra Clare's shadowy, demon-filled world for the first time, I'd absolutely recommend starting with 'City of Bones'—it’s the gateway to the entire Mortal Instruments series. The books follow a pretty intense arc, and jumping in later might leave you scratching your head at the lore. After the original trilogy ('City of Bones,' 'City of Ashes,' 'City of Glass'), you can move into the second set ('City of Fallen Angels,' 'City of Lost Souls,' 'City of Heavenly Fire'). Some fans argue you could pivot to 'The Infernal Devices' prequel trilogy after book three for chronological depth, but honestly? Stick with publication order first—it preserves all the twists.
One thing I love about this series is how Clare layers her universe. If you get hooked, there’s 'The Dark Artifices' and other spin-offs waiting, but Mortal Instruments is the heart of it. The characters’ growth feels so organic when read in order, especially Clary and Jace’s messy, heartbreaking dynamic. Pro tip: avoid spoilers like the plague—this series thrives on its reveals.
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