Thoughts on the Excerpt for 'Chain of Gold' (The Last Hours #1)' by Cassandra Clare

     'Chain of Gold,' the first novel in the brand new upcoming series 'The Last Hours' by Cassandra Clare is set to release on March 3rd.. less than a three weeks away! Having never read any of Clare's previous series which have been on my to-be-read lists for years, I jumped at the chance to read an excerpt of the next foray into the Shadowhunters universe provided by NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing.
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Though I was concerned I might not know important facts from the author's earlier releases, I was pleased with the way she gently explained anything specific to her world. The details brief enough, so as to come across like a reminder, more than a list of things I might be quizzed on later.

The story seems to center around James Herondale, a Shadowhunter of unusual heritage, that's beginning to struggle with an old problem which could potentially endanger him and his team.. all the while trying to hide his connection to a young woman soon to arrive in London, where they're all living.

When he, his sister, and his mother.. greet a family of new arrivals, long time friends of the Herondales, there's a bit of a misunderstanding which I can't wait to watch unfold. Cordelia Carstairs, her pompous brother Alastair, and their mother are in town seeking allies.. as their father finds himself in jeopardy.

I was also thoroughly intrigued by the glimpse of a young Lucie Herondale, James' little sister, lost in a forest near her family home, in what I assume was some kind of flashback. I found myself desperate to know who her would-be savior was and exactly why he was there.. because it was no happenstance.. and he certainly drew my attention with his playfully dangerous energy.

Unfortunately, the excerpt is incredibly brief.. just a few pages here and there.. but it's more than enough for me to realize I'm going to have to get the book. In fact, Cassandra's note at the beginning of the book implies a fascinating overlay between the historic battle of World War I and whatever is coming for both the Herondales and the Carstairs as their families reunite.

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