46 pages • 1 hour read
The City and the City
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Book Brief
336
Novel • Fiction
Besźel • Contemporary
2009
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The City and the City, Inspector Tyador Borlú investigates the murder of archaeology student Mahalia Geary in the unique setting of Besźel and Ul Qoma, two distinct cities/countries that occupy the same physical space but maintain separate cultures and laws. As Borlú delves deeper, uncovering political corruption, extremist group involvement, and mythical legacies, the investigation leads him to confront the mysterious enforcers called Breach. Sensitive topics include violence and political extremism.
Mysterious
Gritty
Suspenseful
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
76,806 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The City and the City by China Miéville has been highly praised for its inventive concept and skillful blending of genres, including crime and speculative fiction. Readers commend its thought-provoking exploration of perception and reality, though some find the dual-city premise initially confusing. Overall, its originality and depth make it a compelling read for fans of both mystery and fantasy.
Who Should Read The City and the City?
Readers who will enjoy The City and the City by China Miéville appreciate intricate, genre-blending mysteries with political undertones. Fans of Kafkaesque narratives, like those in 1984 by George Orwell and The Man in the High Castle by Philip K. Dick, will find this book’s surreal, dual-city setting enthralling.
76,806 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
336
Novel • Fiction
Besźel • Contemporary
2009
Adult
18+ years
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