This book starts out with gorgeous descriptions of magical forest that provides a real sense of place. Then we jump in sharp contrast from the prologue scene of days past to the excitement of fighting demons in the current day. I enjoy the humorous banter between James and his Shadowhunter friends (though they are all blending together a bit, I am looking forward to spending more time with them and differentiating their personalities). Once the Carstairs arrive in London, I don't fully understand the connections between the Herondales and the Carstairs, but with the sparks of romance, the makings of a few love triangles, and the animosity between the boys, I can't wait to read more and see where all of these dynamics end up! A lot of background and details drop hints at larger mysteries, so this is a must read!