Reviews

As we say in the business, a "pure 50%". Much less interesting than it had any right to be, given the concept. Also, I do not think that any subliminal themes were actually given much intention, and the "unexpected trauma causing society to confront its biases and ignorance" element seemed purely coincidental and projected. Was neither a compelling crime novel nor a social commentary, but was still intriguing enough to keep one hanging on.

2_legit_2_knit's review against another edition

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3.0

My journey with this book was a rollercoaster. This was my first Mieville and I wasn't aware that he kind of throws you into the world then explains later what is happening so I spent the first 30% or so extremely confused about what was happening. Once I got it, I was a little bored and I felt like the middle of the novel was repetitive. It picked up around the 60-70% mark. Overall, I liked it but it was just a little long for my taste.

ftairs's review against another edition

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adventurous dark mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

berlinbibliophile's review against another edition

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mysterious reflective tense slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

The worldbuilding is definitely the star of the book. So interesting, and so consequently brought into every single aspect of life in Bészel und Ul Qoma. The case is a bit convoluted, but then that makes sense in the grosstopology of the city and the city. It's very different from everything I've ever read, and fascinating for sure.

writingweb's review against another edition

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5.0

I am so curious about the ideas that triggered this book. Intriguing, original, creative, and well-executed.

alyfany's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional mysterious sad tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

limited_release's review against another edition

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adventurous dark mysterious reflective

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

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