** spoiler alert ** 
 I have to say that I knew Cassandra Clare was going to start off this new series with Sebastian (Jonathan) as the villain. 
 While the book proved to be a bit slow in the action department, I expected that, because it was the first book of the series. Although, I didn't expect there to be such a huge climax toward the end. 
 I liked the new character that was introduced, Jordan Kyle. And I liked that he and Maia have a thing for each other because I really want Isabelle with Simon. 
 Which brings me to Simon's character. I fell in love with Simon's character in the first Mortal Instrument series because he's just one of those dorky, geeky, sarcastic individuals who loves comic books and you can't just help but fall in love with him. Kinda like Seth Cohen in the OC. And I really liked that he sort of retained that personality even as a vampire. At first, I was skeptical about the next series being centered on his character because I was so much in love with Jace and Clary, but when I finished the book, I was more interested in seeing him and Isabelle. 
 The one thing I wasn't sure I liked was the fact that it seemed like an element of Jace (even though the book is centered around Simon) was missing. Plus there is only so much angst you can take with the whole Jace and Clary thing. Their romance sometimes seems like beating a dead horse. 
 Magnus and Alec were great! Having read Clockwork Angel, I was anticipating Alec's reaction to Camille and it didn't disappoint. I loved that the book also examined everyone's relationship, not just Jace and Clary. We got to see Simon and Isabelle, Luke and Jocelyn, Maia and Jordan, Alec and Magnus. It was very refreshing. 
 I liked the introduction of Lilith into the supernatural world. It was very interesting. Although, with the fact that she had been around for ages and never been mentioned tripped me off a bit. 
 I was slightly disappointed with the mention of the characters from Clockwork Angel. I expected them to mention something about Tessa, at least, or Jem. Will was mentioned. But Camille was the highlight. 
 There was a little detail that bugged me a bit about Sebastian being awake at the end. Especially when Simon had drank most of his blood. Simon never gave him blood, so for him to have that kind of power to intercept Jace's thoughts and command him to do that ritual was a bit surprising. Also I was curious to know why the rune hadn't healed itself during the time Jace was fighting with Lilith or the time Clary was talking to Jace. Why did it take so long...and at that moment (when Jace was alone with Sebastian) to heal? The events seemed too coordinated. 
 Overall, it was an interesting read and I can't wait to see what happens next. Now that Sebastien and Jace are joined together.