Review of Chain of Iron (The Last Hours, #2) by Cassandra Clare
Oh, Cassandra Clare, how you’ve done it again! The moment I opened Chain of Iron, I knew I was in for another whirlwind of emotions. This series has been a staple in my reading life, and I couldn’t have been more thrilled to dive back into the intricate world of Shadowhunters. The way Clare weaves themes of love, betrayal, and the complexity of human relationships is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Set in 1903, following the tumultuous events of Chain of Gold, Chain of Iron brings us back to our beloved characters—Cordelia, James, Lucie, and more. Their fantastical lives seem glamorous on the surface, but Clare expertly unearths the tangled threads beneath. Cordelia and James’s engagement—originally intended to uphold Cordelia’s reputation—collides with personal truths that force them further into moral gray areas. James’s heart is entangled with Grace Blackthorn, while Cordelia’s Cortana burns her hand, signaling impending doom. The tension is palpable, and you can’t help but want to unearth every secret these characters are hiding.
Clare’s writing style remains captivating, filled with rich imagery and nuanced emotional depth. I often found myself laughing one moment, only to be wiping away tears the next. The pacing was brisk yet thoughtful, allowing me to savor the moments while propelling me to the next shocking twist. Speaking of which, I was left absolutely reeling from the plot turns! The intricate foreshadowing Clare employed had me second-guessing every character’s intentions, and honest to goodness, I screamed at the pages more than once.
One memorable quote that resonated deeply was, “You cannot save people who do not want to be saved.” It encapsulates the internal struggles our characters face, particularly Lucie, whose reckless decisions may have devastating consequences for those she loves. Cordelia’s strength and complexity shine with lines like, “That love is complicated,” and her journey of self-discovery and bravery grabs hold of your heart and refuses to let go.
As for the relationships, the drama is off the charts! I’m officially declaring myself a “Jordelia” shipper. Their dynamic is beautifully portrayed, fraught with misunderstandings but also filled with a camaraderie that pulls at your heartstrings. And can we talk about Matthew? I just want him to find happiness; his journey is too painful to watch without rooting for him fiercely.
In closing, Chain of Iron is a must-read for anyone who enjoys rich world-building, intricate plots, and unforgettable characters. It’s a gripping continuation of The Last Hours that left me desperate for the next installment, Chain of Thorns (seriously, I can’t handle the wait!). For anyone who loves a good mix of fantasy and heartfelt storytelling, this series will snag your heart and not let go.
So, if you haven’t yet picked it up, what are you waiting for? Grab a copy, grab your favorite cozy spot, and brace yourself for a beautiful, emotional ride—just be prepared to have your heart ripped out (in the best possible way). Happy reading!
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