Mortal Engines

by Philip Reeve
Mortal Engines cover
Good Books rating 4.38
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £8.99
Bookshop
Format • £9.49
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 2932
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-11-28
  • ISBN: 9781407189147
  • Publisher: HarperTeen
  • Published: 2003-11-01
  • Formats: 9
  • Reviews: 4

Set in a distant future where mobile cities roam the landscape, Mortal Engines follows the journey of Tom Natsworthy, a 15-year-old apprentice who is cast out of London by his mentor, Thaddeus Valentine. Tom's quest for answers leads him to the perilous Out-Country, where he encounters the enigmatic Hester Shaw and the memory of a girl named Anna Fiennes. Together, they uncover the dark secrets of London's predatory nature and the true intentions behind its relentless pursuit of smaller towns. /n/n The novel explores themes of survival, identity, and the consequences of unchecked ambition, all set against a backdrop of a world where technology and society have evolved in extraordinary ways. With its unique blend of action, adventure, and intricate world-building, Mortal Engines is a captivating tale that challenges the boundaries of traditional fantasy and science fiction.

Reviews
Lair of Reviews · 2023-04-18
excellent 4.50

The reviewer praises the book's imaginative world-building and unique concept. They find the story engaging and well-crafted, with a compelling narrative that keeps readers hooked.

The reviewer is captivated by the book's imaginative world-building and unique concept of mobile cities. They appreciate the intricate details and the way the story unfolds, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged. The reviewer also highlights the book's ability to blend action, adventure, and deeper themes seamlessly. They find the characters well-developed and the pacing excellent, making it a thrilling read from start to finish.

Quick quotes

    The book is set in a post-apocalyptic / dystopian world.

    Humanity needed to find a new way to live.

    The story is engaging and well-crafted.

Fun Fandom Blog · 2020-01-27
heartbreaking 4.50

The book is an emotional and heartbreaking series that reignites a love for reading. The world is enchanting but tragic, making it a memorable experience.

The reviewer at Fun Fandom Blog finds 'Mortal Engines' to be an emotional and heartbreaking series that reignites their love for reading. They are captivated by the enchanting yet tragic world that Philip Reeve has created. The reviewer appreciates the depth of emotion and the memorable experience that the book provides. They highlight the unique and imaginative setting as a standout feature, making it a memorable and impactful read.

Quick quotes

    For me, Mortal Engines was an emotional and heartbreaking series that reignited my energy for reading.

    I found the world enchanting but tragic, making it a memorable experience.

    The depth of emotion and the memorable experience that the book provides.

Book Series Recaps · 2019-01-12
great 4.00

The reviewer finds the book's world-building to be its strongest aspect, appealing to a niche audience. They suggest it's a must-read for those who enjoy unique and imaginative settings.

The reviewer is particularly impressed with the book's world-building, describing it as crazy and original. They believe it will appeal to a niche audience who enjoy unique and imaginative settings. The reviewer suggests that if you are someone who loves intricate world-building, this book is a must-read. They also mention that the book and its movie adaptation will likely appeal to those who enjoy complex and detailed worlds.

Quick quotes

    All in all, I think the book (and movie) will appeal to a niche audience who loves crazy world building.

    If that's you, then I say go for it!

    The setting and lore seem original enough that they piqued my interest.

Never Imitate · 2017-03-04
brilliant 4.50

The reviewer appreciates the polished and engaging writing, noting the depth and lack of moralizing. They commend the author for not shying away from tough decisions.

The reviewer is impressed by the polished and engaging writing style, which they find to be both deep and free from moralizing or sentimentality. They particularly appreciate the author's willingness to make tough decisions and kill off beloved characters, which adds a layer of authenticity to the story. The reviewer finds the narrative compelling and well-crafted, making it a standout in the genre. They also highlight the book's ability to balance action and deeper themes effectively.

Quick quotes

    The writing is polished and engaging, with sufficient depth to avoid moralising or schmaltz.

    The author is not afraid to kill his darlings.

    An engaging and well-crafted narrative.

Appears in Lists