You need to sign in or sign up before continuing.

2.96k reviews for:

City of Thieves

David Benioff

4.23 AVERAGE


4/5

A really good historical fiction novel that blends heartbreak and a little comedy. This is an atmospheric story set in war ravaged Russia during the German invasion in World War 2. Well written, with great dialogue between its main characters as a particular highlight.

Excellent book. Engaging and informative.
I have to say that the story sounds a bit too contrived, and it may be. Like the father says, "You're a writer, make it up" Maybe he made it all up. I don't know, all I know is that I thoroughly enjoyed it
adventurous emotional medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense fast-paced

You can tell this guy was behind the movie 25th Hour and the Game of Thrones screenwriting. This reads like a movie - not an insult. It moves very quickly, and avoids long, drawn-out introspection, instead letting the reader draw conclusions. Perhaps because of his background, the writing is very brief, not dwelling on any one thing.

I would be very surprised if this was not indeed made into a movie someday. It appears to be written to be turned into a screenplay - again, not an insult.

A very enjoyable story. Nothing amazing. Does a great job of explaining the deprivations of the Soviets and those living under Nazi occupation during WWII.

A surprisingly fun read for what it's about. And very informative about life in Russia during WWII.
adventurous dark funny tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
emotional inspiring reflective tense fast-paced
adventurous emotional funny reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes