Cassandra Clare's Gritty New Adult Novel After the Bridge

Introducing Cassandra Clare's Newest Novel

Cassandra Clare is best known for her young adult fantasy series The Mortal Instruments and The Infernal Devices. Her latest novel, After the Bridge, marks Clare's first foray into adult fiction and is already creating quite a buzz amongst her legions of loyal fans.

As the highly anticipated follow-up to Clare's short story of the same name, After the Bridge explores many themes familiar to those who have journeyed with Clare's shadowhunters before: love, loss, demon-slaying action and the enduring power of family.

A New Setting and Cast of Characters

Whereas The Mortal Instruments and The Infernal Devices trilogies took place in Clare's fictional Shadowhunter universe, After the Bridge introduces readers to 1970s New York City. Protagonist Elena Rojos is a brave, tough, demon-hunting Shadowhunter familiar with danger and violence. But when her closest parabatai and partner Matthew Fairchild abandons her without explanation, Elena struggles to carry on alone.

As she grieves the loss of her friend and fellow warrior, Elena discovers Matthew's disappearance may be tied to a string of grisly murders plaguing mundanes around the city. Determined to uncover the truth, Elena finds herself forging unexpected alliances with Downworlders and mundanes as she hunts a terrifying killer.

Exciting New Territory for Clare

While fantasy aficionados will notice references to familiar terms like the Shadow World, parabatai bonds and runes, Clare's first adult novel allows far grittier themes than her YA books. Reviewers have already praised After the Bridge's nuanced exploration of addiction, mental health struggles and sexuality.

And although Clare's LGBTQ representation, honest discussions of addiction and depiction of mental health have often pushed boundaries in YA lit, her newest book allows even more frank handling of these topics. Freed from the restrictions of young adult publishing, After the Bridge presents diverse relationships and identities in a normalizing light.

Early Reviews Full of Praise

Early readers have responded enthusiastically to Clare's expansion into new territory with After the Bridge. With its fierce heroine, rollercoaster plot full of action and a setting that calls to mind 1970's New York City, the book offers something for old fans and new readers alike.

Popular bookstagrammer @thebookishly reviews writes:

"Clare effortlessly blends the fantastical shadow world with a gritty, authentic 1970's New York City. After the Bridge draws you in from the very first page with mystery and action but keeps you reading with an incredibly moving exploration of mental health, sexuality and addiction."

Another early reviewer, @TBRandBeyond calls the book "a triumph", writing:

"Fierce, complex and deeply human, Elena leaps off the page in Clare's first adult novel. Thrilling action sequences tempered by vulnerable character moments make After the Bridge impossible to put down. Clare handles sensitive topics with grace -- this book left me in tears more than once. 2023's first must-read novel!"

Pre-Order Now

For longtime fans and new readers alike, After the Bridge is clearly a highly personal project close to Clare's heart. Early praise suggests the book delivers on multiple fronts with its winning combination of rich worldbuilding, inclusive representation, and nuanced handling of heavy themes.

You can pre-order your copy of After the Bridge now ahead of its summer 2023 release date. Cassandra Clare will also be touring several cities to promote the new book, with dates to be announced on her website and social media channels.

FAQs

Is After the Bridge set in the Shadowhunter universe?

Yes, After the Bridge takes place in Cassandra Clare's fictional Shadowhunter universe. Readers will recognize terms like parabatai, runes, and the Shadow World. However, the setting of 1970s New York City and grittier, more adult themes mark new territory for Clare.

Do you need to read Clare's other books to enjoy After the Bridge?

No, After the Bridge works as a standalone novel. While long-time Clare fans will appreciate references to her previous books, no prior knowledge of the Shadowhunter universe is necessary.

Why is the book called After the Bridge?

After the Bridge shares its title with a short story Clare published in 2012. The novel expands upon the characters and world first introduced in the original short story.

When is After the Bridge available?

After the Bridge hits shelves in summer 2023. Pre-orders are available now so readers can secure their copy well ahead of the release date.