Order of Dark Artifices Book Series

The "Dark Artifices" series by Cassandra Clare is a compelling continuation of the Shadowhunter Chronicles, set in the same richly imagined universe filled with supernatural beings, magic, and intricate relationships. The series follows the story of Emma Carstairs, an orphaned Shadowhunter who is determined to uncover the truth behind her parents' mysterious deaths while navigating her own complex emotions and connections.

Set in Los Angeles during a time of unrest in the Shadowhunter world, the series delves into the intricacies of forbidden love, the bonds of friendship, and the struggles against dark forces that threaten the stability of both the mundane and supernatural realms. Emma, alongside her parabatai Julian Blackthorn, faces daunting challenges as they try to protect their loved ones and combat the looming threat of an ancient curse.

Brought to life with Clare's signature blend of action, romance, and character depth, the "Dark Artifices" series expands the mythology of the Shadowhunter universe, introducing new characters, deeper lore, and the legacy of the past. It explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the moral complexities of love and duty, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a world where darkness and light constantly vie for dominance.

With its engaging plot twists, richly developed characters, and emotional depth, "The Dark Artifices" is a must-read for fans of urban fantasy and those who have followed the Shadowhunter saga, as it masterfully intertwines romance, adventure, and the struggle against overwhelming odds. The series consists of three main novels: "Lady Midnight," "Lord of Shadows," and "Queen of Air and Darkness," each contributing to an epic tale that resonates with heart and intensity.

Order of The Dark Artifices Series

# Title Year Rating Book Link
1Lady Midnight
By: Cassandra Clare
2016Amazon.com
2Lord of Shadows
By: Cassandra Clare
20174.7Amazon.com
3Queen of Air and Darkness
By: Cassandra Clare
2018Amazon.com

The Dark Artifices Series Books Description

The "Dark Artifices" series by Cassandra Clare is a fantasy trilogy set in the Shadowhunter Chronicles universe. The series follows the events of "The Mortal Instruments" and introduces new characters as well as returning ones. Here is a brief description of each book in the series:

  1. Lady Midnight (2016) The first book in the "Dark Artifices" series introduces readers to Emma Carstairs, a Shadowhunter who is determined to uncover the truth behind her parents' murder. Set in Los Angeles, Emma and her parabatai, Julian Blackthorn, become embroiled in a mystery involving a series of murders connected to the people they love. As they face off against powerful adversaries, Emma struggles with her feelings for Julian, while the bond between them is tested by the responsibilities of their Shadowhunter duties. Themes of love, loyalty, and the consequences of their choices play a central role in this installment.

  2. Lord of Shadows (2017) The second book continues the story of Emma and Julian, as they grapple with the consequences of their actions from "Lady Midnight." The events escalate as a dark power threatens the Shadowhunters and the mortal world. Emma and Julian, along with their friends, must navigate a web of deceit, betrayal, and dark magic while dealing with complex relationships and their conflicting feelings towards each other. New characters are introduced, including the enigmatic antagonist, the Consul, and the plot thickens as alliances are made and broken.

  3. Queen of Air and Darkness (2018) The concluding book of the trilogy ties together the threads from the previous installments. As Shadowhunters face the aftermath of the conflict with the Cohort, Emma and Julian must confront the repercussions of their choices and the sacrifices they have made. The battle against dark forces intensifies, leading to a climactic showdown that tests the limits of their love and their resolve as Shadowhunters. The book explores themes such as identity, sacrifice, and the nature of power, culminating in a resolution that changes the landscape of the Shadowhunter world forever.

Each book in the "Dark Artifices" series weaves together themes of love, family, loyalty, and the struggle between duty and desire within a richly constructed fantasy setting.

Who are the main characters of The Dark Artifices Series

The "Dark Artifices" series by Cassandra Clare is a popular urban fantasy series set in the Shadowhunter Chronicles universe. The main characters include:

  1. Emma Carstairs: The protagonist of the series, Emma is a strong and determined Shadowhunter with a deep personal quest. Orphaned as a child, she seeks to uncover the truth behind her parents’ deaths. She is fiercely loyal to her friends and has a strong sense of justice.

  2. Julian Blackthorn: Emma’s parabatai (a bond between two Shadowhunters that makes them fight as one) and the head of the Blackthorn family. Julian is caring and protective of his siblings, balancing his responsibilities with his feelings for Emma. He is brilliant and resourceful but carries the weight of family struggles.

  3. Mark Blackthorn: Julian’s brother, Mark is a half-Fae who was captured by the Wild Hunt. He struggles to fit in with his family and deal with his experiences in the Wild Hunt. Mark is adventurous and charming, but also faces internal conflict regarding his identity and loyalties.

  4. Cristina Rosales: A new addition to the Shadowhunter world, Cristina comes from the Institute in Mexico. She is brave, skilled, and has a strong moral compass. Cristina is a loyal friend and plays a crucial role in the group's dynamics.

  5. Diana Wrayburn: An experienced Shadowhunter and a mentor figure to the younger characters. Diana is strong-willed and skilled, and she has her own complicated past and personal struggles, particularly regarding her identity and the life she has chosen.

  6. Kieran: A conflicted character from the Faerie realm, Kieran is tied to Mark and is significant to the plot's exploration of love, loyalty, and the complexities of different worlds. His relationships and past are intricately woven into the series' themes.

  7. Tiberius (Ty) Blackthorn: Another of Julian’s siblings, Ty is highly intelligent and has a deep affinity for finding patterns and logic. He is a shadowhunter who struggles with social interactions due to being neurodivergent (specifically, he has traits of autism).

  8. Livvy Blackthorn: Ty's twin sister, Livvy is spirited, adventurous, and protective of her family. She balances Ty's more serious nature with her lively and impulsive personality.

These characters navigate a world filled with magical threats, family loyalty, and the challenges of love and friendship, all while dealing with the legacy of their family’s past and the ongoing struggles against dark forces. Their relationships and growth are central to the series' narrative.

Interesting facts about The Dark Artifices Series

The "Dark Artifices" series by Cassandra Clare is a thrilling continuation of her expansive Shadowhunter Chronicles universe. Here are some interesting facts about the series:

  1. Three-Book Series: The "Dark Artifices" trilogy consists of three main books: "Lady Midnight" (2016), "Lord of Shadows" (2017), and "Queen of Air and Darkness" (2018). Each book continues the story of Emma Carstairs and her fight against dark forces.

  2. Set in Los Angeles: Unlike some of Clare's other works, which are set in various locations around the world, the "Dark Artifices" series is primarily set in Los Angeles. This urban setting adds a unique backdrop to the Shadowhunter world, featuring a mix of urban fantasy and the portrayal of the City of Angels.

  3. Representation and Diversity: Clare has been praised for her efforts to include a diverse cast of characters. In the "Dark Artifices," she explores themes of identity, sexuality, and family, creating characters from different backgrounds and orientations, enhancing the series’ relatability and depth.

  4. Characters from Previous Series: The series features connections to characters from Clare's earlier works, such as "The Mortal Instruments." Fans of the original series will encounter some old favorites, including Jace Herondale and Clary Fray.

  5. Exploration of Grief and Loss: Central to the series is Emma's struggle with grief over the loss of her parents, which shapes her motivations and decisions throughout the story. The series delves deep into the emotional aftermath of loss and the process of healing.

  6. Sister Series: The "Dark Artifices" links to another series, "The Last Hours," which follows the next generation of Shadowhunters. This connection provides a broader exploration of the Shadowhunter universe, interweaving storylines and characters from different timelines.

  7. Strong Female Protagonists: Emma Carstairs, the series' heroine, is a strong, complex character who breaks traditional female archetypes. She is a skilled Shadowhunter, fiercely independent, and deeply loyal, pushing against gender norms within her society.

  8. A Blend of Genres: The series combines elements of fantasy, romance, and mystery, creating a rich tapestry of narrative styles. Readers can expect action-packed scenes alongside poignant moments of character development and emotion.

  9. Themes of Love and Friendship: The "Dark Artifices" explores various forms of love, including friendship, family bonds, and romantic relationships, showcasing the importance of these connections in the face of adversity.

  10. Expanded Universe: The success of the "Dark Artifices" has further expanded Clare's Shadowhunter Chronicles, leading to additional short stories, companion books, and ongoing discussions about future adaptations, including possible TV series.

The "Dark Artifices" series has garnered a dedicated fanbase and continues to be an integral part of Cassandra Clare's influential body of work in young adult fiction.