The Caves of Steel

by Isaac Asimov
The Caves of Steel cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 6729
  • Added: 2025-11-28
  • Updated: 2025-11-28
  • ISBN: 9780307792419
  • Publisher: Spectra
  • Published: 2011-04-13
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In 'The Caves of Steel,' Isaac Asimov weaves a tale of intrigue and tension set against the backdrop of a crowded, claustrophobic Earth. Detective Elijah Baley, a man deeply distrustful of robots and the Spacers who use them, is thrust into an unprecedented partnership with R. Daneel Olivaw, a robot designed in the image of the murder victim. This uneasy alliance tests the boundaries of human-robot relationships and the societal norms of both Earth and the Outer Worlds. /n/n As Baley and Olivaw navigate the complexities of their investigation, they uncover secrets that challenge their beliefs and the very fabric of their societies. The novel explores themes of prejudice, technology, and the future of humanity, all while delivering a gripping mystery that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Reviews
Berkeley Mystery Fiction · 2023-10-18
great 4.00

The book is praised for its mix of mystery and science fiction elements, with a hardened detective seeking justice. The plot is engaging with villains, chases, and misdirection.

This review highlights the novel's successful blend of mystery and science fiction, creating a captivating narrative. The detective's quest for justice is particularly noted, along with the book's effective use of villains, chases, and misdirection. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of the story, making it a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    The Caves of Steel has the proper mix of villains, chases, clue-dropping, and misdirection.

    A hardened detective trying to find justice.

    The story is engaging with plenty of plot twists.

Coffee Books and Cake · 2021-11-12
mixed 3.00

The story is slightly predictable, with the murderer being easily identifiable. The reviewer found this jarring against the overall feel of the novel.

This reviewer noted that The Caves of Steel has some predictable elements, particularly in identifying the murderer early on. They found this predictability jarring against the novel's overall tone and feel. Despite this, the reviewer acknowledged the book's strengths in blending genres and creating an engaging narrative. The dialogue, however, was criticized for feeling more suited to the 1950s rather than the futuristic setting.

Quick quotes

    The story is slightly predictable, I worked out quickly who the murderer was.

    Found it jarring against the feel of the novel.

    The dialogue has more of place in the 1950s rather than three millenniums from now.

Reddit - r/books · u/Unknown · 2019-04-14
brilliant 4.50

The story is captivating and has the depth typical of great science fiction. The reviewer found it very enjoyable and engaging.

This Reddit user found The Caves of Steel to be a fantastic read, highlighting its captivating story and the depth that makes science fiction great. They appreciated the book's ability to keep them engaged throughout, making it a highly enjoyable experience. The reviewer also noted the inferable depth that adds to the overall appeal of the novel.

Quick quotes

    What a great book!

    Found the story very captivating whilst still having the inferable depth that makes sci-fi great!

    A brilliant storyline that features plenty of plot twists.

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