This prequel to the terrifically entertaining and page-turning Mortal Instruments series is just as gripping and entertaining as one would expect. Yes, it is quite similar in plot and setup; there are just different characters in a different place and time: this book is set in London in the late 1800s. So while some of the social mores are slightly different, the characters are just as compelling and often brash — we are dealing with weapons-wielding, demon-killing Shadowhunters, after all.

In Clockwork Angel, a young woman from New York comes to London seeking her brother. But Tessa Gray gets more than she bargained for when she is taken by two warlock sisters and imprisoned, forced to use a magical power she never knew she had. She is at last liberated by Will Herondale and other Shadowhunters from the London Institute, and they all must figure out how Tessa fits into the larger, dark mystery involving an organization called the Pandemonium Club and its leader the Magister.

Cassandra Clare again spins a tale that is hard to put down, with characters who are colorful and complex and between whom there is great interaction and dialogue. Clockwork Angel sets readers down into a brewing mystery and dark events that will not be resolved until we finally get the last of the series.

Rated: Moderate, for some mild and moderate language, some oblique references to sexual activity and bloody violence.