82 pages • 2 hours read
City of Thieves
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Book Brief
258
Novel • Fiction
Leningrad, Russia • 1940s
2008
Adult
18+ years
910L
Super Short Summary
City of Thieves by David Benioff follows Lev Beniov, a young Russian Jew, and Kolya, a Cossack soldier, during the Siege of Leningrad in World War II, as they embark on a perilous quest to find a dozen eggs for an officer's daughter's wedding to secure their freedom. The novel explores friendship, survival, and the brutality of war. The novel includes depictions of violence, torture, and sexual exploitation.
Dark
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Challenging
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
171,882 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
City of Thieves by David Benioff is widely praised for its engaging storytelling and vivid depiction of war-torn Leningrad. Readers commend the blend of dark humor and poignant moments, as well as the authentic character development. Some criticisms include occasional predictability and simplistic language. Overall, it's a compelling, character-driven historical novel.
Who Should Read City of Thieves?
City of Thieves by David Benioff is suited for readers who enjoy historical fiction with dark humor, compelling characters, and adventure. Fans of All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will find its blend of wartime struggles and personal growth particularly captivating.
171,882 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Kolya
Kolya
Charismatic and confident, Kolya is a soldier and intellectual whose quick wit and charm introduce humor into the narrative. His bravery and complex personality unfold as he embarks on a dangerous mission alongside Lev.
Vika
Vika
A skilled and fearless member of a partisan group, Vika defies traditional expectations with her proficiency in weapons. Her relationship with Lev reveals layers of her character beyond her tough exterior.
Colonel Grechko
Colonel Grechko
A powerful military figure who assigns a peculiar task to Lev and Kolya as a means of salvation, revealing glimpses of vulnerability beneath his authoritative demeanor. His interactions with Lev offer insight into survival in a harsh regime.
258
Novel • Fiction
Leningrad, Russia • 1940s
2008
Adult
18+ years
910L
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