Last Updated on May 9, 2025
Cassandra Clare, a #1 New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, is celebrated for her expansive urban fantasy series, The Shadowhunter Chronicles, set in a hidden world of demon-hunting Nephilim. Born Judith Rumelt on July 27, 1973, in Tehran, Iran, to American parents, Clare grew up in Los Angeles, London, and Switzerland. A former entertainment journalist in Los Angeles and New York, she began writing fan fiction under the pseudonym Cassandra Claire before publishing her debut novel, City of Bones (2007), inspired by Manhattan’s urban landscape. With over 36 million copies sold, translated into 35+ languages, her works have earned awards like the 2010 Georgia Peach Book Award (City of Glass) and inspired adaptations, including a 2013 film (The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones) and a 2016–2019 Freeform series (Shadowhunters). As of May 10, 2025, Clare has published 33 books: 25 in The Shadowhunter Chronicles (six series, one companion), five standalones, and three co-authored non-Shadowhunter series. This article lists all her books in publication order, organized by series and standalones, with summaries, publication dates and reading guidance.
Why Read Cassandra Clare’s Books?
Clare’s Shadowhunter Chronicles weave intricate tales of love, friendship, and battles against demons, set in a richly detailed world of Shadowhunters, Downworlders (vampires, werewolves, faeries, warlocks), and mundanes. Her series—The Mortal Instruments, The Infernal Devices, The Dark Artifices, The Last Hours, The Eldest Curses, and The Wicked Powers—span centuries, blending YA urban fantasy with romance and political intrigue. Standalones like The Bane Chronicles and co-authored series (Magisterium, Ghosts of the Shadow Market) expand her universe. Known for “addictive” storytelling (Kirkus Reviews), Clare includes diverse characters, including LGBTQ+ leads, earning praise for representation (Goodreads). Reading in publication order is recommended to avoid spoilers and follow character arcs, though some series can be read independently. With The Ragpicker King (March 2025) continuing The Wicked Powers, Clare’s saga captivates fans of Sarah J. Maas or Leigh Bardugo.
Cassandra Clare’s Books in Publication Order
Clare has published 33 books: 25 in The Shadowhunter Chronicles (18 novels, six companion collections, one graphic novel), three in Magisterium, three in Sword Catcher, one in Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy, and one standalone. Below is the complete list in publication order, grouped by series and standalones, with upcoming releases through March 2025. Published by Margaret K. McElderry Books, Simon & Schuster, or Walker Books, titles are available in hardcover ($20–30), paperback, e-book, audiobook (narrated by Morena Baccarin, Natalie Moore, and others), and Kindle Unlimited.
The Shadowhunter Chronicles
The Shadowhunter Chronicles encompass six series and companion collections, set in the same universe. Series are listed in publication order, with recommended reading notes.
The Mortal Instruments (2007–2014)
Six novels set in modern New York, following Clary Fray, a teen discovering her Shadowhunter heritage. Read in order for Clary’s arc and world-building.
- City of Bones (March 2007, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Clary Fray, 15, witnesses a murder by Shadowhunters, learning she’s part of their world. With Jace Wayland, she uncovers her mother’s secrets and battles demons. A New York Times bestseller (4.07/5 Goodreads), adapted into a 2013 film and Shadowhunters series. - City of Ashes (March 2008, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Clary navigates her feelings for Jace and a new threat from her father, Valentine, who seeks the Mortal Cup. Political intrigue escalates. A bestseller with a 4.11/5 Goodreads rating. - City of Glass (March 2009, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Clary travels to Idris, the Shadowhunter homeland, to stop Valentine’s war. Secrets about Jace unravel. Won the 2010 Georgia Peach Book Award, with 4.29/5 Goodreads rating. - City of Fallen Angels (April 2011, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Simon, Clary’s friend and new vampire, faces a cult threatening Downworlders. Clary and Jace’s romance deepens. A darker shift, 4.08/5 Goodreads. - City of Lost Souls (May 2012, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Jace is bound to Clary’s evil brother, Sebastian, forcing Clary to infiltrate their plans. A New York Times bestseller, praised for “heart-pounding” stakes (Kirkus). - City of Heavenly Fire (May 2014, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Clary, Jace, and friends confront Sebastian’s demonic army, with losses that shape future series. Introduces The Dark Artifices characters. A New York Times bestseller (4.38/5 Goodreads).
The Infernal Devices (2010–2013)
Three novels set in 1878 Victorian London, following Tessa Gray, a shape-shifting warlock. Prequel to The Mortal Instruments. Can be read before or after but best after City of Glass (3) for spoilers (HowToRead.me).
- Clockwork Angel (August 2010, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Tessa Gray arrives in London, kidnapped by the Dark Sisters, and rescued by Shadowhunters Will Herondale and Jem Carstairs. She uncovers her powers and a mechanical army. A New York Times bestseller (4.31/5 Goodreads). - Clockwork Prince (December 2011, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Tessa, Will, and Jem hunt the Magister, facing betrayal and a love triangle. Political plots threaten the London Institute. A bestseller, 4.42/5 Goodreads. - Clockwork Princess (March 2013, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Tessa’s powers are key to stopping the Magister’s automatons. Her choice between Will and Jem resolves, with ties to The Mortal Instruments. A New York Times bestseller (4.55/5 Goodreads).
The Bane Chronicles (2014–2015)
A companion collection of 10 short stories (plus one bonus) about warlock Magnus Bane, co-authored with Sarah Rees Brennan and Maureen Johnson. Best read after City of Heavenly Fire (6) for spoilers.
- The Bane Chronicles (November 2014, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Stories span Magnus’ life, from 1791 Peru to modern New York, focusing on his romances (notably Alec Lightwood) and adventures. Includes What Really Happened in Peru, The Runaway Queen, and The Course of True Love. A New York Times bestseller (4.18/5 Goodreads).
The Dark Artifices (2016–2018)
Three novels set in 2012 Los Angeles, following Emma Carstairs post-City of Heavenly Fire. Read after The Mortal Instruments to avoid spoilers.
- Lady Midnight (March 2016, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Emma Carstairs, a Shadowhunter, investigates murders tied to her parents’ deaths, with parabatai Julian Blackthorn. Forbidden love brews. A New York Times bestseller (4.39/5 Goodreads). - Lord of Shadows (May 2017, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Emma and Julian face the Faerie Courts and a necromantic threat, complicating their bond. Introduces The Last Hours ties. A bestseller, 4.47/5 Goodreads. - Queen of Air and Darkness (December 2018, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Emma, Julian, and the Blackthorns battle a fascist Shadowhunter regime and demonic forces. A sprawling finale, 4.33/5 Goodreads.
Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy (2016)
A companion collection of 10 novellas about Simon Lewis, co-authored with Sarah Rees Brennan, Maureen Johnson, and Robin Wasserman. Best read after City of Heavenly Fire (6).
- Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy (November 2016, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Simon trains at the Shadowhunter Academy, exploring his past and future. Stories like Welcome to Shadowhunter Academy and Born to Endless Night tie to The Dark Artifices. A New York Times bestseller (4.31/5 Goodreads).
The Eldest Curses (2019–2023)
Three novels about Magnus Bane and Alec Lightwood, co-authored with Wesley Chu. Set during/after The Mortal Instruments. Read after City of Heavenly Fire (6).
- The Red Scrolls of Magic (April 2019, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Magnus and Alec, on vacation post-City of Glass, uncover a cult tied to Magnus’ past. A New York Times bestseller (4.12/5 Goodreads). - The Lost Book of the White (September 2020, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Magnus and Alec, with Clary and Jace, retrieve a stolen spellbook from a demon realm. Set post-The Dark Artifices. A bestseller, 4.02/5 Goodreads. - The Black Volume of the Dead (November 2023, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Magnus and Alec face a new supernatural threat, balancing family and duty. The trilogy’s finale, 4.15/5 Goodreads.
Ghosts of the Shadow Market (2019)
A companion collection of 10 short stories, co-authored with Sarah Rees Brennan, Maureen Johnson, Kelly Link, and Robin Wasserman. Spans Shadowhunter history. Best read after The Dark Artifices (11–13).
- Ghosts of the Shadow Market (June 2019, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Stories focus on Jem Carstairs, from 1878 London to modern Shadow Markets, with tales like Son of the Dawn and The Land I Lost. Ties to The Last Hours. A New York Times bestseller (4.27/5 Goodreads).
The Last Hours (2020–2022)
Three novels set in 1903 Edwardian London, following the children of The Infernal Devices characters. Prequel to The Mortal Instruments. Best read after The Infernal Devices and The Mortal Instruments.
- Chain of Gold (March 2020, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Cordelia Carstairs, daughter of Will and Tessa, battles demons in London with James Herondale and Lucie. A demonic plague looms. A New York Times bestseller (4.39/5 Goodreads). - Chain of Iron (March 2021, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Cordelia, James, and their friends uncover a serial killer tied to dark magic. Romance and betrayal intensify. A bestseller, 4.42/5 Goodreads. - Chain of Thorns (January 2022, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Cordelia and James face a demonic mastermind threatening the Shadowhunter world. The trilogy’s epic finale, 4.35/5 Goodreads.
The Shadowhunter’s Codex (2013)
A companion guide to the Shadowhunter world, co-authored with Joshua Lewis.
- The Shadowhunter’s Codex (October 2013, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
A faux guidebook detailing Shadowhunter history, runes, and creatures, narrated by Clary. Best read after City of Glass (3). A New York Times bestseller (4.04/5 Goodreads).
The Mortal Instruments Graphic Novels (2017–2023)
Adaptations of The Mortal Instruments as graphic novels, illustrated by Cassandra Jean.
- The Mortal Instruments: The Graphic Novel, Vol. 1 (October 2017, Yen Press)
Adapts City of Bones (1), following Clary’s introduction. Six volumes total, covering the series through 2023. A visual companion (4.21/5 Goodreads).
The Wicked Powers (2022–2025)
Three novels set in modern Los Angeles, focusing on Kit Herondale and Ty Blackthorn post-The Dark Artifices. Read after The Dark Artifices and The Last Hours.
- The Bone Raven (November 2022, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Kit Herondale and Ty Blackthorn reunite to stop a necromantic threat in L.A. Introduces new Shadowhunter conflicts. A New York Times bestseller (4.30/5 Goodreads). - The Ragpicker King (March 4, 2025, Margaret K. McElderry Books)
Kit, Ty, and Dru Blackthorn face a faerie war and ancient magic. The second book, pre-orderable (cassandraclare.com). The third, untitled, is planned for 2026.
Magisterium Series (2014–2018)
Five middle-grade fantasy novels, co-authored with Holly Black, set in a magical school. Unrelated to Shadowhunters. Read in order.
- The Iron Trial (September 2014, Scholastic Press)
Callum Hunt, 12, enters the Magisterium to train as a mage, uncovering dark secrets about his past. A New York Times bestseller (3.96/5 Goodreads). - The Copper Gauntlet (September 2015, Scholastic Press)
Callum’s powers grow, but a traitor threatens the Magisterium. A fast-paced sequel. - The Bronze Key (August 2016, Scholastic Press)
A murder at the Magisterium forces Callum and friends to confront a spy. A twist-filled installment. - The Silver Mask (October 2017, Scholastic Press)
Callum faces imprisonment and a battle against chaos magic. A darker turn, 4.03/5 Goodreads. - The Golden Tower (September 2018, Scholastic Press)
Callum and friends battle the ultimate evil to save the Magisterium. The series finale, 4.05/5 Goodreads.
Sword Catcher Series (2023–2024)
Three adult fantasy novels (one forthcoming), unrelated to Shadowhunters, set in the kingdom of Castellane. Read in order.
- Sword Catcher (October 2023, Del Rey Books)
Kel, a body double for Prince Conor, and Lin, a physician, navigate conspiracies in Castellane. Clare’s adult debut, a New York Times bestseller (3.79/5 Goodreads). - The Siren’s Call (October 2024, Del Rey Books)
Kel and Lin face new threats as Castellane’s underworld erupts. A “sweeping” sequel (Publishers Weekly). - The Blood-Dimmed Tide (October 2025, Del Rey Books)
The trilogy’s finale, details sparse, but expect political intrigue and romance. Pre-orderable (cassandraclare.com).
Standalone Novels
One standalone, unrelated to Shadowhunters.
- Vacations from Hell (May 2009, HarperTeen, co-authored with Libba Bray, Claudia Gray, Maureen Johnson, Sarah Mlynowski)
A YA anthology with Clare’s novella The Mirror House, about a teen’s supernatural vacation. A light read (3.67/5 Goodreads).
Reading Cassandra Clare’s Books: Tips and Guidance
- Shadowhunter Chronicles Reading Order: Read in publication order (1–25) for the optimal experience, as it follows the timeline and avoids spoilers for recurring characters (e.g., Magnus Bane, Jem Carstairs) across series (HowToRead.me). Alternatively, read by series in this order: The Mortal Instruments (1–6), The Infernal Devices (7–9), The Dark Artifices (11–13), The Last Hours (19–21), The Eldest Curses (15–17), The Wicked Powers (24–25). Companion collections (The Bane Chronicles (10), Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy (14), Ghosts of the Shadow Market (18), The Shadowhunter’s Codex (22)) are best read after their related series to avoid spoilers (see series notes). Graphic novels (23) are optional visual retellings.
- Non-Shadowhunter Series: Magisterium (26–30) and Sword Catcher (31–33) are unrelated to Shadowhunters and can be read anytime. Magisterium requires order for Callum’s arc, as does Sword Catcher for Kel and Lin’s story.
- Standalone: Vacations from Hell (34) is a quick, non-Shadowhunter novella, readable anytime.
- Content: Shadowhunter Chronicles and Magisterium are YA/middle grade with moderate violence (demon battles, murders), romance (2/5 spice per romance.io), and themes of identity, family, and prejudice. Suitable for ages 13+. Sword Catcher is adult, with darker themes and mild explicit content (3/5 spice). Trigger warnings for abuse, trauma, and homophobia (Goodreads).
- Starting Point: Begin with City of Bones (1) for the Shadowhunter Chronicles’ foundation (790,000+ Goodreads ratings), Clockwork Angel (7) for a historical entry, or Sword Catcher (31) for adult fantasy. The Iron Trial (26) suits younger readers.
- Adaptations: Watch The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones (2013 film) or Shadowhunters (2016–2019 Freeform) after reading The Mortal Instruments for context, though both deviate from the books. No adaptations exist for other series.
- Chronological vs. Publication Order: Publication order (as listed) is preferred, as chronological order (The Infernal Devices → The Last Hours → The Mortal Instruments → The Dark Artifices → The Wicked Powers) risks spoilers for later-published series (TLBranson).
- Companion Books: The Shadowhunter’s Codex (22) enhances world-building post-City of Glass. Short story collections (10, 14, 18) deepen character backstories but aren’t essential.
Where to Find Cassandra Clare’s Books
Available in hardcover, paperback, e-book, audiobook, and large print through:
- Retailers: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, ThriftBooks, PangoBooks, Indigo.
- Libraries: Most stock City of Bones, Clockwork Angel, and Lady Midnight.
- Digital Platforms: Kindle, Audible, Kobo, Libby, OverDrive. Many titles on Kindle Unlimited (Amazon.com).
- Official Website: cassandraclare.com for signed copies, excerpts, and The Ragpicker King updates. Tumblr (cassandraclare.tumblr.com) offers fan Q&As.
- Secondhand: ThriftBooks, PangoBooks for used copies ($3–10). Free U.S. shipping on orders over $15 (ThriftBooks).
Follow Clare on X (@cassieclare), Instagram (@cassieclare1), or her newsletter for book tours, giveaways, and The Wicked Powers news.
Why Cassandra Clare’s Books Resonate
Clare’s 33 books, with City of Bones earning 4.07/5 from 790,000+ Goodreads ratings and Clockwork Princess at 4.55/5, captivate for their “epic world-building” and “swoon-worthy” romance (Booklist). The Mortal Instruments launched her fame, while The Infernal Devices is a fan favorite for its love triangle (Goodreads). Readers on X praise her diverse representation (Magnus and Alec’s romance, autistic Ty Blackthorn), though some note pacing issues in later works (TLBranson). Living in Amherst, Massachusetts, with her husband, Joshua Lewis, and three cats, Clare’s background in fan fiction informs her serialized storytelling. Her 20+ New York Times bestsellers, Shadowhunters TV success, and fan-driven buzz cement her as a YA fantasy titan (cassandraclare.com).
Final Thoughts
Cassandra Clare’s bibliography, from City of Bones (2007) to The Siren’s Call (2024), offers a sprawling urban fantasy saga with The Shadowhunter Chronicles, plus middle-grade (Magisterium) and adult (Sword Catcher) ventures. Start with City of Bones for the Shadowhunter world, Clockwork Angel for historical romance, or Sword Catcher for adult intrigue. Read The Mortal Instruments, The Infernal Devices, The Dark Artifices, The Last Hours, The Eldest Curses, and The Wicked Powers in publication order (1–25) to avoid spoilers, with companions after their series. Magisterium and Sword Catcher are standalone series, and Vacations from Hell is a quick read. With The Ragpicker King (March 2025) and The Blood-Dimmed Tide (October 2025) looming, Clare’s “unforgettable” universe (Publishers Weekly) keeps growing. Dive in for demons, romance, and epic battles.