GHOSTS OF THE SHADOW MARKET

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.