Cassandra Clare
Author of The Mortal Instruments and Shadowhunters universe
Cassandra Clare (born July 31, 1973) is a British-American author renowned for her fantasy fiction, particularly the Shadowhunters universe. Born in Tehran, Iran to American parents, she grew up in various countries including France, England, and Switzerland before settling in the United States. She began writing fanfiction in her teens before transitioning to original fiction. Her debut novel, City of Bones (2007), launched The Mortal Instruments series, which became a global phenomenon spanning multiple book series set in the same universe. The franchise includes The Infernal Devices, The Dark Artifices, and other interconnected works, collectively known as the Shadowhunters Chronicles. Her books have been translated into dozens of languages and have inspired a feature film adaptation and the successful Shadowhunters television series on Freeform. Clare's intricate world-building, complex characters, and blend of urban fantasy with romance have garnered a devoted international fanbase. She continues to expand her universe while engaging actively with her readers through social media and fan communities.
Arts & Literature
British-American
1973
Thinking about the name
Casandra
Greek origin
“Derived from the Greek name Kassandra, meaning 'she who excels' or 'shines upon men.' In Greek mythology, Casandra was a Trojan princess and prophetess whose prophecies were always true but never believed. The name carries intellectual strength and tragic beauty, appealing to literary-minded parents drawn to mythological depth.”