Books matching: dystopian city
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- #1
Save:Set in a Lovecraftian universe, 'The Stars Were Right' follows Waldo, a caravan master framed for a series of gruesome murders in the city of Lovat. As he tries to clear his name, he becomes entangled in a web of cultist plots and demi-God worship, all while navigating the multilevel city inhabited by various races of humans and aliens. The noir, man-on-the-run feeling of the book is engaging, and the world-building is meticulous and fascinating, adding a layer of intrigue even for readers unfamiliar with Lovecraftian mythos.
I blew into town like the murmur of a warm sigh.The air was muggy and hot—high summer in Lovat. Clouds churned above the city like cake batter, promising rain. The island caravansara buzzed with activ... - #2
Save:In a biogenetic post-apocalyptic world, the book "Borne" by Jeff VanderMeer follows the journey of Rachel, Wick, and the shape-shifting entity named Borne as they navigate their relationships while fighting for survival. VanderMeer's imaginative storytelling delves into themes of love, identity, and the blurred lines between humanity and monstrosity. The narrative is described as a mix of dystopian elements, philosophical musings, and a focus on found families in a world overrun by biotech and monstrous creatures.
The book explores the strange and haunting cityscape created by an evil corporation's biotech experiments gone wrong, where characters encounter giant flying bears, shape-shifting entities, and deadly biotech creations. Through the eyes of the scavenger Rachel and her bond with Borne, the story delves into themes of survival, evolution, and the complexities of relationships in a world teetering on the brink of destruction.
I found Borne on a sunny gunmetal day when the giant bear Mord came roving near our home. To me, Borne was just salvage at first. I didn’t know what Borne would mean to us. I couldn’t know that he wou... - #3
Save:'The Sun's Blood' in the series 'Heirs of Sun and Storm' by author Jeremy Bai is a blend of cyberpunk, xianxia, and fantasy genres, set in a dystopian city teeming with life and secrets. The plot focuses on personal growth and discovery as characters uncover the mysteries of the city and the world they live in. The cultivation system is intricately woven into the story, shaping both the characters and the environment they inhabit. The writing style is described as clever, interesting, and well-thought-out, with each chapter peeling away layers of the narrative while leaving the reader eager for more revelations.
- #4
Save:In 2053, the book 'City of Bohane' by Kevin Barry presents a futuristic and dystopian town in Western Ireland, devoid of technology, where warring factions reminiscent of an old western clash. The language and prose used by Barry are incredibly creative, developing a vivid vision of the city, although the plot and character development are deemed thin by some readers. The narrative follows crime boss Logan Hartnett as he faces competition from younger rivals Jenny Ching and Gant Broderick, all set in a world filled with unique patois, fashion, and a dark, hedonistic atmosphere.
Whatever’s wrong with us is coming in off that river. No argument: the taint of badness on the city’s air is a taint off that river. This is the Bohane river we’re talking about. A blackwater surge, m... - #5
Save:"Batman: No Man's Land" is a collection of stories that take place in Gotham City after a massive earthquake leaves the city in ruins. The Federal Government declares Gotham a lost cause and cordons it off, leading to a lawless territory where various gangs and heroes vie for power and control. The plot delves into the struggles of Batman, Commissioner Gordon, and other characters as they navigate this chaotic and dangerous environment. The writing style is described as compelling, emotionally charged, and featuring a wide array of characters, both minor and major, woven into the narrative.
IT HAD TAKEN THEM A WEEK OF WORK TO get this far, digging out the site only at night, trying to stay safe from watching eyes. The two moved rubble and dug in silence, working mostly by feel. Each of t... - #6
Save:Dead Man in a Ditch is a captivating blend of a noir detective novel and a magical fantasy, following the protagonist Fetch Phillips on a quest to uncover his identity and purpose in a world devoid of magic. The book delves into themes of redemption, guilt, and the search for hope in a post-apocalyptic city. Luke Arnold's writing style is praised for its depth, engaging world-building, dark humor, and emotional complexity, making the reader feel deeply connected to the characters and their struggles.
I was as cold as a corpse in the snow. Cold as a debt collector’s handshake. Cold like the knife so sharp you don’t feel it till it twists. Cold like time. Cold as an empty bed on a Sunday night. Cold...
(Also, see 66 recommendations for the series Fetch Phillips ) - #7
Save:In 'City of Thieves' by David Benioff, the story unfolds during the siege of Leningrad in World War II, following Lev and Kolya, two unlikely companions tasked with finding a dozen eggs in a starving city to secure their freedom. The book blends humor, adventure, and tragedy as the characters navigate the harsh realities of war and the desperate conditions of the besieged city, providing a poignant and gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged till the end.
The book is praised for its vivid portrayal of the characters, the setting, and the historical context of the siege of Leningrad, offering a unique blend of humor, heart-wrenching moments, and realistic depictions of wartime struggles. The writing style is lauded for its fast pace, engaging plot twists, and the dynamic relationship between Lev and Kolya, creating a compelling and memorable story that resonates with readers.
You have never been so hungry; you have never been so cold. When we slept, if we slept, we dreamed of the feasts we had carelessly eaten seven months earlier—all that buttered bread, the potato dumpli... - #8
Save:In "The Man Who Japed," Philip K. Dick presents a post-apocalyptic society in 2114 where morality is strictly enforced through robotic spies and public trials. The protagonist, Allen Purcell, finds himself in a dilemma when he unwittingly commits a criminal act of humor by joking about a revered statue. As Allen grapples with the consequences and societal expectations, the narrative delves into themes of propaganda, morality, fascism, and the absurdity of a surveillance state. The story unfolds with a mix of social commentary, humor, and elements of paranoia, characteristic of Philip K. Dick's early works.
At seven A.M., Allen Purcell, the forward-looking young president of the newest and most creative of the Research Agencies, lost a bedroom. But he gained a kitchen. The process was automatic, controll... - #9
Save:In "Any Sign of Life" by Rae Carson, the story follows high school basketball star Paige as she wakes up after a week in a coma to find her entire family dead in a post-apocalyptic world. The plot revolves around Paige's journey to find other survivors, including two other survivors she comes across, as they try to uncover the reasons behind the end of humanity. The book combines elements of apocalyptic and extraterrestrial themes, with a focus on survival, mystery, and the emotional toll of being a survivor in a devastated world.
The writing style in "Any Sign of Life" by Rae Carson is described as fast-paced, dark, and suspenseful, with well-developed characters that feel very human. The plot includes elements of action, discovery, and emotional depth, as the characters navigate a world filled with death, grief, and the struggle to survive. The book also features a cute dog companion, Emmaline, who provides a sense of comfort and companionship in the midst of chaos and despair.
- #10
Save:'The Inverted World' by Christopher Priest is a science fiction novel that follows Helward Mann as he navigates a mysterious world where the city he lives in must constantly move on rails to survive. The book presents a unique setting where the laws of physics are distorted, and the narrative unfolds through a series of revelations that challenge both the protagonist and the reader's perception of reality. Priest's writing style is described as detailed, scientific, and intricate, creating a surreal and compelling atmosphere that keeps readers engaged till the end.
I had reached the age of six hundred and fifty miles. Beyond the door the guildsmen were assembling for the ceremony in which I would be admitted as a guild apprentice. It was a moment of excitement a...
