City of Ashes is the second novel in the six-part Mortal Instruments series. The Mortal Instruments itself is part of author Cassandra Clare’s larger Shadowhunter Chronicles universe. In this universe, magical creatures such as warlocks, vampires, demons, and fairies are real, hidden from the eyes of mortals through “glamours.” An ancient race of demon-hunters, called Shadowhunters or Nephilim, protect the world from malevolent demons and maintain the order of the universe.

In the 11th century, the world was overrun by demons who had violated the wards between dimensions. Jonathan, the first Shadowhunter, invoked the help of the archangel Raziel. Raziel gave Jonathan three angelic objects known as the Mortal Instruments and his blood to partake in a cup, which granted Jonathan angelic powers. Jonathan used his own blood to create new Shadowhunters. Thus, all Shadowhunters claim angelic descent. Shadowhunters are trained in magic from the age of 10, and receive runes or Marks—angelic symbols—on their bodies as they move up the ranks of training. The Marks protect them from demons and provide Shadowhunters with special powers, such as speed and stealth.

In City of Bones, the first novel of the Mortal Instruments series, the

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