Book 2, The Lost Herondale: Shadowhunter Academy

Very frustrating it only being a chapter, wish it was just released as a full book. Do not enjoy having to wait a month for another chapter, makes me lose interest in the series which is a shame as I enjoyed the books. This is just ridiculous.

the title is misleading. Yes they tell you a story of a Herondale from long ago and hint that there might be another, but that's it. You don't meet a lost Herondale. So why even name it that? The one in the story dies. Simon is a jerk to all his old and new friends. He wasn't a jerk in the Mortal series, so why is he such a big one now? These stories are to expensive Simon is turning into a character I don't like and you learn nothing from these books. It's an expensive way to keep you reading something that in my opinion isn't worth it. I understand he's trying to find himself and sees himself as neither Simon but that doesn't mean he should be so cruel to Isabel or even the kids at the academy. He doesn't agree with the way they think obviously but he shouldn't just ignore them the way he does.

"The Lost Herondale" begins when Simon is warned about the deadly consequences of deserting your comrades in a fight after he and his elite friends are ordered to hunt down and kill a rogue vampire. From the tragic story of Tobias Herondale who abandoned his fellow Shadowhunters in the thick of battle Simon learns not only about the brutality of the Clave who murdered Tobias and his wife but that their child was rescued by the warlock Catarina Loss and raised as a mundane. Instead of Jace being the last of the Herondale line, Tobias has descendants left in the world where more Shadowhunters are needed after the Dark War killed so many.

Cassandra Clare sets the stage in the Shadowhunter Academy where mundanes who lack the genetic destiny of Shadowhunter families are instructed in rudimentary martial arts and memorize the Nephilim Covenant while the elite progeny are drilled in advanced skills and studies, learning about the runes that will protect them in a fight. The plot is fast-paced with twists that keep the reader captivated as the mission takes an unexpected turn, and Simon learns about a lost Herondale.

Feeling alone with only rare glimpses of his former life, Simon is constantly harangued about his lack of memory, and from Clary about the cost of his rejection on a fragile Isabella. Although frustrated, with little self-confidence, he is more determined than ever to take control of the life he's been given and move forward. In this decision he finds encouragement from Catarina Loss and Clary who want him to accept who he is whether he remains at the Academy or not.

Although the story is short there are unforgettable personalities that add spice to the drama; like thirteen year old Marisol who's feisty and never apologizes for being a mundane; Delaney Scarsbury the strict, no-nonsense physical instructor; and Simon's loyal friend, the athletic, strong and fast George Lovelace.

Although the plot lacks the depth and dimension of a novel, and there is little character development I liked "The Lost Herondale" and would rate it a 3.5 if the scale allowed.

This short story surpassed my expectations. Reading about Simon's adventures and struggles is pure joy to me, as I am a HUGE Mortal Instruments fan. Clare's amazing sense of humor and beautiful writing style are all displayed in this short story. I highly recommend this to any Simon Lewis fans out there.