In my opinion, *City of Ashes* really captures the feeling of how fragile peace can be. Clary seems to have everything she’s always wanted—training to be a Shadowhunter, a relationship with Jace, and peace between Downworlders and Shadowhunters—but the sudden unraveling of everything she holds dear adds so much suspense. I think the way her actions unknowingly set off a chain of events makes the story even more intense. It really shows how sometimes, even in the best of circumstances, things can quickly spiral out of control. The mystery and the personal stakes for Clary make this book a rollercoaster of emotions.