The City and the City

by China Mieville
The City and the City cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Technical
  • ID: 4620
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Stuck in a Book · 2020-06-28
intriguing 3.50

The plot didn't overwhelm, but the unique setting and themes kept the reader engaged. It's not just a modern crime novel.

The reviewer notes that the plot of the book didn't particularly overwhelm them, but the unique setting and themes were compelling enough to keep them engaged. They appreciate that the book is more than just a modern crime novel, offering deeper layers of intrigue and thought-provoking elements. The reviewer suggests that while the plot might not be the strongest aspect, the overall experience is enriched by the book's unique setting and the questions it raises about societal structures and perceptions.

Quick quotes

    The City and the City isn't a novel I'd look twice at if it were just a modern crime novel, and the plot didn't overwhelm me.

    But what kept me ...

    It's not merely a cleverly structured detective novel, it is also a rather profound anthropological analysis.

The Guardian · 2014-07-20
great 4.00

The book is ambitious yet avoids pretentiousness, being lean, taut, and very atmospheric. It's a good book worth checking out.

The reviewer praises the book for its ambition and atmospheric setting, noting that it avoids becoming pretentious. They highlight the lean and taut narrative, which makes it a compelling read. The book's unique premise and execution are particularly noted, making it a standout in the genre. The reviewer suggests it's a good book worth exploring, especially for its atmospheric qualities and engaging storytelling.

Quick quotes

    It's ambitious, but Mieville doesn't get pretentious, it's lean and taught and very atmospheric.

    A good book, well worth checking out.

    Won a ...

Elitist Book Reviews · Alan · 2009-08-01
brilliant 4.50

The book offers an intelligent and brain-bending setting that leaves readers thinking long after they've finished it.

Alan highlights the book's intelligent and thought-provoking setting, which he finds both engaging and challenging. He appreciates the way the book makes readers think deeply about its themes and concepts. The reviewer also notes that the book's unique premise and execution set it apart from other novels in the genre, making it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    If you want an intelligent and brain-bending setting that will leave you thinking, THE CITY AND THE CITY is a book for you.

    It's a book that stays with you long after you've finished reading.

    The unique premise and execution make it a standout read.

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