The Bane chronicles by Cassandra Clare, Sarah Rees Brennan, Maureen Johnson

Walker Books, 2014. ISBN 9781406352429
(Ages 14+) This is a companion volume of stories to accompany The Shadowhunter Chronicles written by Cassandra Clare - a series which has been consistently popular over the past five years. Clare has spoken of the fascination she had for the abandoned buildings in the large cities of the United States; places which evoked fantastical and historical imaginings and so, she began the stories of the warlocks, vampires and humans. These eleven stories give the reader some insight into the lives and loves of Magnus Bane, the leading character in the already published Chronicles. Warlocks live forever - so imagine what they have seen over time. Magnus is such a likeable, flamboyant and heroic character blessed with good looks, a fine sense of fashion and a great sense of humour plus amazing magical powers. I was very drawn to these stories, which encompass historical time periods from the 18th century through to the present day. With a consistently readable writing style, Clare has drawn her characters well; this special collection will be loved by her reading fans.
Julie Wells