
Cassandra Clare’s Shadowhunter Chronicles is a sprawling, interconnected series of novels that has captivated readers worldwide. With multiple series, novellas, and companion books, it can be daunting to figure out the best order to dive into this richly detailed universe. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned fan looking to revisit the series, understanding the reading order can enhance your experience and ensure you don’t miss any crucial details.
The Publication Order: A Traditional Approach
One of the most straightforward ways to approach Cassandra Clare’s books is to read them in the order they were published. This method allows you to experience the story as it unfolded for readers over the years, with each new book building on the foundation laid by its predecessors.
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The Mortal Instruments Series:
- City of Bones (2007)
- City of Ashes (2008)
- City of Glass (2009)
- City of Fallen Angels (2011)
- City of Lost Souls (2012)
- City of Heavenly Fire (2014)
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The Infernal Devices Series:
- Clockwork Angel (2010)
- Clockwork Prince (2011)
- Clockwork Princess (2013)
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The Dark Artifices Series:
- Lady Midnight (2016)
- Lord of Shadows (2017)
- Queen of Air and Darkness (2018)
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The Last Hours Series:
- Chain of Gold (2020)
- Chain of Iron (2021)
- Chain of Thorns (2023)
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The Eldest Curses Series (co-written with Wesley Chu):
- The Red Scrolls of Magic (2019)
- The Lost Book of the White (2020)
- The Black Volume of the Dead (forthcoming)
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Standalone Novels and Companion Books:
- The Bane Chronicles (2014)
- Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy (2016)
- Ghosts of the Shadow Market (2018)
Chronological Order: A Historical Perspective
For those who prefer to experience the Shadowhunter world in chronological order, starting with the earliest events in the timeline, this approach can provide a deeper understanding of the series’ lore and history.
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The Infernal Devices Series (set in the 19th century):
- Clockwork Angel
- Clockwork Prince
- Clockwork Princess
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The Last Hours Series (set in the early 20th century):
- Chain of Gold
- Chain of Iron
- Chain of Thorns
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The Mortal Instruments Series (set in the 21st century):
- City of Bones
- City of Ashes
- City of Glass
- City of Fallen Angels
- City of Lost Souls
- City of Heavenly Fire
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The Dark Artifices Series (set a few years after The Mortal Instruments):
- Lady Midnight
- Lord of Shadows
- Queen of Air and Darkness
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The Eldest Curses Series (set during and after The Mortal Instruments):
- The Red Scrolls of Magic
- The Lost Book of the White
- The Black Volume of the Dead
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Standalone Novels and Companion Books:
- The Bane Chronicles
- Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy
- Ghosts of the Shadow Market
Thematic Order: A Character-Centric Journey
Another way to approach the Shadowhunter Chronicles is to follow the thematic arcs of specific characters or groups. This method can be particularly rewarding for readers who are deeply invested in certain characters or relationships.
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The Mortal Instruments Series (focusing on Clary Fray and Jace Herondale):
- City of Bones
- City of Ashes
- City of Glass
- City of Fallen Angels
- City of Lost Souls
- City of Heavenly Fire
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The Infernal Devices Series (focusing on Tessa Gray, Will Herondale, and Jem Carstairs):
- Clockwork Angel
- Clockwork Prince
- Clockwork Princess
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The Dark Artifices Series (focusing on Emma Carstairs and Julian Blackthorn):
- Lady Midnight
- Lord of Shadows
- Queen of Air and Darkness
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The Last Hours Series (focusing on Cordelia Carstairs and James Herondale):
- Chain of Gold
- Chain of Iron
- Chain of Thorns
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The Eldest Curses Series (focusing on Magnus Bane and Alec Lightwood):
- The Red Scrolls of Magic
- The Lost Book of the White
- The Black Volume of the Dead
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Standalone Novels and Companion Books (exploring various characters and side stories):
- The Bane Chronicles
- Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy
- Ghosts of the Shadow Market
Hybrid Order: A Balanced Approach
For those who want a balanced experience that combines elements of publication order, chronological order, and thematic focus, a hybrid approach might be the best option. This method allows you to appreciate the series’ development while also following the chronological and thematic threads.
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The Infernal Devices Series:
- Clockwork Angel
- Clockwork Prince
- Clockwork Princess
-
The Mortal Instruments Series:
- City of Bones
- City of Ashes
- City of Glass
- City of Fallen Angels
- City of Lost Souls
- City of Heavenly Fire
-
The Dark Artifices Series:
- Lady Midnight
- Lord of Shadows
- Queen of Air and Darkness
-
The Last Hours Series:
- Chain of Gold
- Chain of Iron
- Chain of Thorns
-
The Eldest Curses Series:
- The Red Scrolls of Magic
- The Lost Book of the White
- The Black Volume of the Dead
-
Standalone Novels and Companion Books:
- The Bane Chronicles
- Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy
- Ghosts of the Shadow Market
Related Q&A
Q: Should I read The Bane Chronicles before or after The Mortal Instruments? A: The Bane Chronicles can be read at any point, but it’s best enjoyed after you’ve become familiar with Magnus Bane through The Mortal Instruments and The Infernal Devices.
Q: Is it necessary to read The Infernal Devices before The Last Hours? A: While not strictly necessary, reading The Infernal Devices first will provide valuable context and enhance your understanding of the characters and their relationships in The Last Hours.
Q: Can I skip The Dark Artifices and still understand The Last Hours? A: The Dark Artifices introduces important characters and events that are referenced in The Last Hours, so it’s recommended to read it for a fuller experience.
Q: Are the standalone novels essential to the main series? A: The standalone novels and companion books add depth to the Shadowhunter world and provide additional insights into various characters, but they are not essential to understanding the main series. However, they are highly recommended for fans who want to explore the universe more thoroughly.