Stad av skuggor
- First published 2005
- 526 pages
- Swedish
When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray witnesses a murder at a New York City nightclub, committed by three teenagers covered in strange tattoos, she expects the police to be involved. But the body vanishes into thin air, and nobody else can see the killers. Her first encounter with the Shadowhunters, a secret cadre of warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons, is also her first glimpse into a world she was never meant to see. Within a day, her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon, forcing her into the Shadowhunters' hidden world to survive.
Thrust among the demon-slaying Jace, Alec, and Isabelle, Clary is drawn deeper into their dangerous reality of warlocks, vampires, and werewolves. She discovers that her mother concealed a powerful secret, and that Clary herself possesses abilities she cannot explain. As she searches for her mother, she begins to uncover a past that was intentionally kept from her and a destiny that will require more courage than she ever imagined. The question is no longer just what happened to her mother, but why demons are suddenly interested in an ordinary girl like her, and how she can see a world that is supposed to be invisible.
Thrust among the demon-slaying Jace, Alec, and Isabelle, Clary is drawn deeper into their dangerous reality of warlocks, vampires, and werewolves. She discovers that her mother concealed a powerful secret, and that Clary herself possesses abilities she cannot explain. As she searches for her mother, she begins to uncover a past that was intentionally kept from her and a destiny that will require more courage than she ever imagined. The question is no longer just what happened to her mother, but why demons are suddenly interested in an ordinary girl like her, and how she can see a world that is supposed to be invisible.
- Genres
- Fiction › Speculative fiction › Horror & supernaturalFiction › Action & adventureFiction › Speculative fiction › Fantasy › Urban fantasyFiction › RomanceFiction › Speculative fiction › Fantasy › Romantasy
- Themes
- Mythical & supernatural beings › Demons MagicMythical & supernatural beings › Vampires Family
- Where and when
- New York City Big city
What readers say
4.06
2.2M ratings across the web 7 in 10 readers loved it, 1 didn't like it
The book is often praised for its engaging and imaginative world-building, seamlessly blending various supernatural creatures like angels, demons, vampires, werewolves, and warlocks into a vivid parallel New York City. Many readers found the concept of Shadowhunters – half-angel demon slayers – to be cool and compelling, appreciating the author's unique take on established mythical elements. The narrative is frequently described as fast-paced and action-packed, keeping readers invested with its dramatic sequences and intriguing mystery. The dialogue, particularly Jace's witty and sarcastic remarks, is a highlight for many, often eliciting laughter and contributing to a fun reading experience. Additionally, some commend the book for its early inclusion of LGBTQIA+ characters and themes, seen as progressive for its publication era.
However, a significant portion of the reviews criticizes the book for its perceived lack of originality, with many pointing out strong resemblances to popular series like Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The writing style is a common point of contention, cited for numerous editing errors, inconsistent points of view, repetitive phrasing, and excessive info-dumping rather than showing. Characters, especially the protagonist Clary, are often described as annoying, inconsistent, or embodying "not like other girls" tropes, while other characters are seen as flat or interchangeable in their sarcastic banter. The plot is frequently called predictable, uninspired, and at times boring, with some subplots deemed unnecessary. Inconsistencies in the magic system, particularly regarding the "stele," and a villain who fails to be genuinely menacing also draw criticism.
Ultimately, "City of Bones" elicits strong, often polarized reactions, with readers either loving or disliking it intensely. Those who enjoy fast-paced urban fantasy with a rich supernatural world, witty dialogue, and a focus on character dynamics, especially if they are new to the genre or can overlook perceived flaws, are likely to appreciate this book. However, readers seeking highly original plots, polished writing, or deep character development may find it falls short, particularly if they are sensitive to tropes or derivative elements.
However, a significant portion of the reviews criticizes the book for its perceived lack of originality, with many pointing out strong resemblances to popular series like Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The writing style is a common point of contention, cited for numerous editing errors, inconsistent points of view, repetitive phrasing, and excessive info-dumping rather than showing. Characters, especially the protagonist Clary, are often described as annoying, inconsistent, or embodying "not like other girls" tropes, while other characters are seen as flat or interchangeable in their sarcastic banter. The plot is frequently called predictable, uninspired, and at times boring, with some subplots deemed unnecessary. Inconsistencies in the magic system, particularly regarding the "stele," and a villain who fails to be genuinely menacing also draw criticism.
Ultimately, "City of Bones" elicits strong, often polarized reactions, with readers either loving or disliking it intensely. Those who enjoy fast-paced urban fantasy with a rich supernatural world, witty dialogue, and a focus on character dynamics, especially if they are new to the genre or can overlook perceived flaws, are likely to appreciate this book. However, readers seeking highly original plots, polished writing, or deep character development may find it falls short, particularly if they are sensitive to tropes or derivative elements.
Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first.
Details & editions
- This edition
- Bonnier Carlsen, 2013
- ISBN
- 9789163875052
- Language
- Swedish
Original edition City of Bones Originally published in 2005 · English · RecordedBooks
