Ghosts of the Shadow Market

May 15, 2019
Ten short stories set in the expansive Shadowhunter universe introduced in the Mortal Instruments series. The enigmatic Brother Zachariah--formerly Shadowhunter James "Jem" Carstairs--and the darkly glittering fae magic of the Shadow Market, where werewolves, vampires, and warlocks roam, tie most of these stories together. Each story, co-authored by Clare (The Red Scrolls of Magic, 2019, etc.) with one of the other four writers, features Shadowhunter favorites in different eras and international locales. "Learn About Loss" is set in a Depression-era Tennessee carnival, and "A Deeper Love" finds Zachariah's one true love, the immortal warlock Tessa Gray, working as a nurse during the London Blitz. Other tales are set in contemporary New York and Buenos Aires. Clare's gift for melodrama is on fine display, and there's no shortage of atmosphere, emotion, and yearning hearts. Anna Lightwood's doomed attraction to a beautiful--and betrothed--young woman in "Every Exquisite Thing" is unrequited love at its most angst-y, and "Through Blood, Through Fire," which reunites Jem with Tessa--and then some--will warm even the coolest of hearts. While there are some standouts, the overall caliber of the stories is high and the voice feels consistent. However, this collection assumes readers know their stuff and isn't the best place for newcomers to this world to jump in. There is considerable diversity in ethnicity and sexual orientation. Fast food for dedicated fans. (about the authors) (Fantasy. 14-18)

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May 15, 2019
Grades 9-12 Like the magical Downworlders themselves, the Shadow Market is hidden from nonmagical eyes. Seated right next to human markets, the Shadow Market comes to life at night, full of magic, mystery, and mischief. Readers of Clare's other series will recognize familiar Shadowhunter family names: the Fairchilds, Herondales, and Lightwoods are the focus here, their histories explored in depth. Another familiar figure, the Silent Brother Zachariah?also known as Jem Carstairs?leads readers through this short-story collection. He chooses to keep Matthew Fairchild's secrets in "Cast Long Shadows," by Sarah Rees Brennan, and learns of his wife's demonic origins in "Every Exquisite Thing," by Maureen Johnson. He searches for an artifact in the stories' backgrounds, throughout different times and places throughout Clare's canon, always near the Shadow Market. The standout story here is Rees Brennan's "Forever Fallen," which is set in the modern day and offers an update on both Jem and original series star Jace. With the Shadowhunters television series ending, be sure to have a copy on the shelves for an expected uptick in interest.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2019, American Library Association.)