City on Fire
City on Fire
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Brief
944
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1970s
2015
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
City on Fire, by Garth Risk Hallberg, published in 2015, is a historical novel set in New York City during the late 1970s. The story weaves together the lives of various characters affected by the shooting of a young girl named Samantha Cicciaro on New Year's Eve, culminating in a city-wide blackout in 1977. In doing so, the narrative explores the interconnectedness of different social classes and the diverse fabric of urban life.
Mysterious
Gritty
Suspenseful
Emotional
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
17,442 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Hallberg's City on Fire offers a vivid portrayal of 1970s New York, weaving complex characters and intricate narratives. The rich, immersive storytelling and period authenticity win praise, though some critics note its sprawling length and dense subplots can be overwhelming and detract from momentum. Overall, it is a commendable literary achievement but may test readers' patience.
Who Should Read City on Fire?
Readers who enjoy dense, multi-layered narratives like Jonathan Franzen's The Corrections or Donna Tartt's The Goldfinch will be captivated by City on Fire by Garth Risk Hallberg. This novel appeals to those who appreciate intricate storylines, rich character development, and historical settings, especially New York City during the 1970s.
17,442 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
944
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1970s
2015
Adult
18+ years
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