The Infernal Devices, A.K.A The Mortal Instruments set in 18th Century London 
 Checklist for The Mortal Instruments re-write: 
 Damsel in Distress heroine with latent supernatural powers: Check 
 Cocky and arrogant hero shrouded in mystery: Check 
 Puppy dog love story with teen angst complications: Check 
 Love Triangle: Check 
 Obnoxious, vain and drop dead gorgeous supporting female character: Check 
 Friendly male that is the exact opposite of the hero and is in love with the heroine: Check 
 Murderous sibling: Check 
 Over-achieving hard to murder villain: Check 
 Magnus Bane: Check 
 A shadow-hunter institute run by an older couple and housing 3 teenagers, 1 girl and 2 boys: Check 
 Now, how to make the story seem original? Oh, just set it in the 18th century and include some steam punk elements since that's the up and coming genre! 
 Ta-Da! Thus, The Infernal Devices was born! 
 Once I got over the repetitiveness, I had a few more qualms with the book: 
 - For a book set in the 18th century it read like a contemporary. Aside from the scattered mention of corsets and lady-like/ Gentlemanly behavior, the dialogue as well as the characters interaction seemed very much 21st century. 
 - Everyone was just so shallow. Maybe it's cause this is Y.A.? I don't know, but ugh they were as 3-dimensional as cardboard cut-outs. 
 - Jem's story was so lame. 
 On the other side of negativity, here are some positive notes: 
 - At least Clare was consistent. We had the Lightwoods and Magnus Bane, which feature in the Mortal Instruments. And the Shadowhunters retained the same backstory. 
 - It's a fun and fast read. I enjoyed reading it, as shallow as it was. Sometimes you need light and brainless books. 
 - I'm intrigued to find out Will's story and Tessa's full background. Clare has piqued my interest. 
 - I'm a sucker for arrogant messed up boys. I can't resist them. 
 I guess this means I will be reading the remaining 2 if only for Will's sake and my coveted happy ending.