Chain of Gold: The Last Hours, Book 1 Cassandra Clare – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Chain of Gold: The Last Hours, Book 1 Cassandra Clare

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

book

71%

WISE Score

4.7

Amazon

Edwardian demon-slaying meets ballroom romance in this violent, lush fantasy for teens who can handle the intensity.

Chain of Gold: The Last Hours, Book 1 Cassandra Clare

book

71%

WISE Score

4.7

Amazon

Edwardian demon-slaying meets ballroom romance in this violent, lush fantasy for teens who can handle the intensity.

4.7

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Screenwise Verdict

Chain of Gold delivers exactly what Cassandra Clare fans expect: lush world-building, swoon-worthy romance, and demon-slaying action set against Edwardian London ballrooms. It's well-written and engaging, with a protagonist who chooses agency over expectation.

But let's be real about the content. Parent reviews specifically flag 'too much violence,' and the demons here are described as 'hideously terrifying.' Add in romantic lust (not just hand-holding) and you've got a book that's firmly in the mature teen category. This isn't Percy Jackson-level safe.

The formula is familiar—Clare has written this structure before—but if your teen loved her other books, they'll be happy here. Just know this is a 700-page commitment with intense content. Not for sensitive readers or anyone under 14.

Age Fit

Best for mature teens 14+ who are comfortable with intense fantasy violence and romantic content. The 'hideously terrifying demons' and romantic lust push this beyond middle grade territory. Strong readers who loved Clare's other Shadowhunter books will devour this.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Models heroism, loyalty, and determination through Cordelia's character who wants to be a hero rather than just a bride. Features complex relationships and identity exploration appropriate for teens. Common Sense Media parent reviews note 'great role models.' However, contains romantic lust elements and intense emotional situations that push beyond younger wholesome territory.

Imaginative

Richly imagined Shadowhunter world mixing Edwardian London with vampires, warlocks, mermaids, and magicians. Publishers Weekly describes it as 'richly imagined...rife with action, intrigue.' The supernatural salon setting and demon-fighting premise invite readers into a detailed fantasy universe. However, follows Clare's established formula rather than breaking new ground.

Safe

Contains 'too much violence' per Common Sense Media parent reviews, with 'hideously terrifying demons' and demon attacks that devastate London. Features romantic lust alongside love, incurable demon poison, and brutal choices. Rated 'Moderate' by Rated Reads for content. Not appropriate for younger readers who might stumble upon graphic violence or mature romantic content unexpectedly.

Enriching

Explores themes of agency (Cordelia choosing heroism over arranged marriage), family honor, identity, and the cost of heroism. Characters navigate complex moral choices and relationships. The historical fantasy setting exposes readers to Edwardian London culture. Strong character development and relationship complexity provide emotional depth. However, primarily entertainment-focused rather than deeply educational.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Strong female protagonist who rejects marriage expectations to pursue heroism on her own terms
Gorgeously detailed world-building mixing historical London with supernatural creatures and magic
Complex relationships and identity exploration that resonate with teen experiences
Fast-paced action balanced with romance and intrigue keeps pages turning
Part of beloved Shadowhunter universe with interconnected characters and lore

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What to Watch For

Intense violence including terrifying demons, incurable poison, and devastating attacks—parent reviews specifically call out 'too much violence'
Mature romantic content including physical attraction and lust, not just sweet crushes
At 700+ pages, this is a commitment that requires strong reading stamina
Works better if you've read Clare's other Shadowhunter books, though not strictly required

Conversation Starters

"Cordelia wants to be a hero instead of getting married. What do you think makes someone a hero?"
"The characters have 'incredible powers' but face a 'brutal choice.' When is power worth the cost?"
"How would you handle being trapped in a quarantined city with demons walking in daylight?"
"Cordelia has to hide her feelings for James. Have you ever had to keep a secret that felt impossible to hold?"

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