Status Updates From The Mortal Instruments, the...

City of Ashes:

Not the best book in the world. Lots of confusing business in the romance department, though I think the moral questions that are asked are interesting, if the answers are unsatisfying and thus controversial. The great character-building and world-building certainly helped fuel even more tumblr popularity. Cleverer than comparable sequels, even if the events are contrived. And ultimately it's fun!!

City of Bones:

Pros - The world is very immersive and digestible, and NYC is a great backdrop that I enjoy more now as an adult. The powers that these supernatural teenagers have provide a fun level of magical strength without removing tension. The romance twist at the end is at least fresh, ignoring that its weirdness will be pervasive in the next book. Great character.
Cons - Insta love; repetition; contrivances

Re-reading the entire series and choosing to mark it this way due to (1) reliance on audiobooks making this more of a skim compared to previous reads and (2) not wanting to taint my middle school reviews with adult jadedness 🙃🙃

That is to say I am enjoying City of Bones far more than expected!

I will write one overarching review at the end... we'll see how it comes out :)