The phrase refers to the practice of accessing a specific young adult fantasy novel, “City of Bones” (the first book in The Mortal Instruments series), through digital platforms without incurring a monetary charge. This often involves searching for unofficial online copies or taking advantage of limited-time promotional offers where the ebook version is temporarily offered at no cost. It signifies a consumers attempt to read the book without paying for it.
The appeal of obtaining digital content at no cost stems from various factors. Budgetary constraints often drive individuals to seek free alternatives to purchasing books. Additionally, the ease of accessing digital files online contributes to the popularity of this practice. Historically, the internet has fostered a culture of information sharing, which, while beneficial in many respects, has also led to the unauthorized distribution of copyrighted materials. The demand for accessible and affordable entertainment further fuels the search for such free resources.