Alrighty, folks. I actually didn’t hate this book. I loved it! People forget that The Mortal Instruments are ~technically~ two trilogies, so I understand why City of Fallen Angels may not live up to the rest of you don’t look at it as the start to a new trilogy. However, I thought this book was a great lead in to the last half of the series. It was a tiny bit slow, but I liked how it focused a lot on characters!

The storyline itself revolves around the murders of Downworlders, and eventually dead demon babies, but I would agree it is a bit overshadowed by Jace angst and Simon’s girl issues. Ah, there is also the Simon Mark of Cain plot, which intertwines with the main plot near the end. The plot was super slow to develop and then shot off right at the end, which I didn’t despise, I just wish the action was evenly spread. I think the plot definitely allowed for the second half of the series to succeed with the rise of Sebastian.

As for Jace, I genuinely liked seeing his mental struggle with the events in City of Glass. It is really important to see YA characters, especially boys, show emotion and struggle with mental health. I think Jace showed a side of vulnerability this book, which was extremely important in his character development.

Simon got the recognition he deserved! This book turned me into a Simon fan. He really stepped up to the plate and wasn’t annoying this book, yay! He took huge steps in being mature, despite the whole 2 girlfriends thing. I will say that he learned from his mistake, and I respect that. It was nice to see Jace and his relationship grow.

We do not see much from the Lightwood siblings this book, but alas. I was alright with seeing more from Simon. Overall, this book was enjoyable, but it lacked the usual plot depth of the other Mortal Instruments books.