Clockwork princess by Cassandra Clare

The Infernal Devices series, bk 3. Walker, 2013. ISBN
9781406330403.
(Age: 14+) Recommended. The London Institute is facing its biggest
challenge. Mortmain aims to destroy the Shadowhunters with his
Infernal Devices, automatons that will raze down all within their
path. However Mortmain needs Tessa Gray to finally complete his
vicious plans. Tessa too is facing life changing decisions. Both
Will and Jem will do anything to protect Tessa but she realises that
she is the only person who can save herself. Will her Angel necklace
help her to survive and what boy will she choose?
Clare brings the 3rd and final book in The Infernal Devices
to a satisfying conclusion in a massive 568 pages. The fact that she
could hold my attention in such a long book is a testament to her
clever plotting, characterisation and action that brings an
alternative London to life. I spent most of the book wondering how
she would be able to resolve the tricky issue of the love triangle
that faces Tessa: which boy will she choose when she loves them
both. Clare did not disappoint and the ending was a very surprising
and gratifying one. The action was also brought to a breath taking
climax and the imagery was such that I won't forget Tessa's angel in
a hurry.
This book was more character driven than action driven (although the
action was great as well). It was wonderful to see Tessa coming of
age and coming into her power and Will finally coming to terms with
the curse that had haunted him for years. There were also heart
wrenching moments for Jem as he fought his illness while Charlotte
and her fight to keep the Institute and do what was right provided a
strong role model for women becoming leaders and still having loving
relationships. Many references to books and poetry will have readers
seeking out some of the classics and perhaps being introduced to
some renowned literature.
A family tree at the back of the book provides the links to the
characters found in The Mortal Instruments series and should
answer readers' questions about who is who and their relationships.
This is sure to be a winner with all the readers who have enjoyed
previous books in both The Infernal Devices series and The
Mortal Instruments series.
Pat Pledger
