Book Review: Better in Black by Cassandra Clare
When I first heard about Better in Black, I felt a flutter of excitement—Cassandra Clare is back with a collection centered on our beloved Shadowhunter couples! As a longtime fan of the Shadowhunter Chronicles, I couldn’t help but be drawn in by the promise of romance, heartache, and, of course, all that classic Shadowhunter stylishness. With this anthology, Clare does not disappoint, delivering ten short stories that feel as rich and layered as a full-length novel.
At its core, Better in Black is about love in its myriad forms: the exhilarating highs, the heart-wrenching lows, and everything in between. I loved how Clare effortlessly weaves together the stories of iconic couples—from Will and Tessa’s amnesia-stricken honeymoon in Paris to the poignant longing of Luke and Jocelyn. Each story shines a light on the complexities of love, exploring not only romantic relationships but familial ties and the transformative power they hold.
Clare’s writing style is as engaging as ever—her knack for vivid descriptions and sharp dialogue remains intact. The pacing varies from story to story, giving us quick bursts of joy and gut-wrenching emotion when we need them most. I particularly found solace in the humor woven throughout, especially in City of Broken Hearts, where Simon’s unexpected proposal to Isabelle brings a lightness to an otherwise emotionally charged collection.
One standout for me was Too Wise to Love, where Nene, the Seelie Queen, grapples with her feelings for Sebastian and her role as a mother. In fewer than twenty pages, Clare manages to deliver a powerful exploration of love that is both calculated and genuine. I was stunned by how effectively it captured that feeling of wanting to protect yet being drawn toward hurt. The line that resonated with me the most was when Nene embraces Ash, realizing that familial love is the most unavoidable of all. It brought me to tears, blending heartbreak with raw emotional depth that showcases Clare’s masterful storytelling.
Of course, no anthology is without its missteps. For me, A Surfeit of Annas fell a bit flat—it felt like a brief stopover that didn’t quite land emotionally. However, even the weaker stories contribute to the overall tapestry of the collection. Each chapter adds a unique texture to the reader’s experience, maintaining the excitement that no one story can capture it all.
In terms of visual appeal, the two distinct covers are a feast for the eyes. The Kickstarter edition is gorgeously illustrated by Jenny Zemanek, featuring a collage of characters that entice newcomers and longtime fans alike. I found it a fitting visual representation of what to expect inside: a rich world filled with personality.
Overall, Better in Black is not just a celebration of the Shadowhunter universe; it’s a testament to the power and complexity of love itself. If you’re a fan of Clare’s work, this collection will feel like a warm hug, reuniting you with characters you adore. For newcomers, it’s an evocative introduction to a world where love and pain walk hand-in-hand, stylishly blotting out the shadows.
Whether you’re a reader seeking romance, drama, or a deep emotional connection, Better in Black is a must-read that will resonate on multiple levels. Grab your copy—this anthology is nothing short of iconic.
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