The only reason I read this book was because of Sarah Rees Brennan, author of The Demon's Lexicon. Brennan is better know as "That chick who wrote all that awesome Harry Potter slash fic and is kind of crazy". She is always cavorting about with her YA author friends, one of whom is Cassandra Clare. Since Brennan is constantly comparing the male lead in City of Bones to the male lead in The Demon's Lexicon, I figured I'd give City of Bones a try. The first several chapters feel dull and uninspired, I won't lie. However, as the story progressed I found that I cared deeply about how the book would end, I really wanted to know how all the romantic subplots played out (they're kind of central and not nearly as trite as they first appear), and Clare successfully built an urban fantasy world that felt like it was an actual society, not just magic shit thrown on the page for magic's sake.
The basic plot is: Girl's mother is kidnapped by dark lord who is kind of racist against other magical (and non-magical) creatures. Only she can save her mother! (With the help of a group of lovable, moral, teenage warriors of course!)
Morals include: Racism is bad, incest is creepy, some people are naturally good at things, don't trust adults, girls should always be aware that their male bff may be madly in love with them and get kinda pissed when she doesn't notice.
Bottom Line: A more adult take on the Harry Potter story formula but with much better writing and a more political world. Due to strong language, several makeout sessions, and teenage angst, probably not appropriate for those under 12.
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