Paul DeSantis
A number of the stories in this collection are top tier and are worth a read considering their placement in time (~1950s). However, a few of these stories fall flat in their conclusion. Many tend to build and set the reader up for a Twilight Zone-esque big reveal that never comes. While I suspect the author is allowing the reader to imagine their own outcome to the narrative she has established, I would largely prefer to read the story as it was perceived--in its entirety.
Regarding the major themes, I enjoyed that many of the stories established these dark unknown characters. It can be fun to theorize and imagine what these characters look like or what their intentions are, but again I wish I could walk away with some confirmation at the story's conclusion. Another reoccurring theme is how many aspects of life that I consider "mundane" can be quite terrifying when considered from the female perspective. Running into a stranger on the street, a partner bringing a friend home, or a strange sound outside your bedroom window become more sinister when you already in a society that requires you be wary of everything around you.
While I would recommend this to fans of short stories and horror literature, prepare yourself for more of a focus on domestic life and a few endings that fall flat.
A number of the stories in this collection are top tier and are worth a read considering their placement in time (~1950s). However, a few of these stories fall flat in their conclusion. Many tend to build and set the reader up for a Twilight Zone-esque big reveal that never comes. While I suspect the author is allowing the reader to imagine their own outcome to the narrative she has established, I would largely prefer to read the story as it was perceived--in its entirety.
Regarding the major themes, I enjoyed that many of the stories established these dark unknown characters. It can be fun to theorize and imagine what these characters look like or what their intentions are, but again I wish I could walk away with some confirmation at the story's conclusion. Another reoccurring theme is how many aspects of life that I consider "mundane" can be quite terrifying when considered from the female perspective. Running into a stranger on the street, a partner bringing a friend home, or a strange sound outside your bedroom window become more sinister when you already in a society that requires you be wary of everything around you.
While I would recommend this to fans of short stories and horror literature, prepare yourself for more of a focus on domestic life and a few endings that fall flat.
A perfect split between absolutely grim and beautifully uplifting– my face was glued to this story as I yearned for it to unfold. Benioff did an amazing job with the pacing, the characters, and the perfect level of detail.
While this certainly falls under the category of historical fiction, I think it would appeal to both fans and enemies of the genre. At its core, it's just a great story with suspense, drama, and comedy. And I'm sure it even counts as learning about of the Siege of Leningrad, although you won't find any of the historical detail boring.
For those on the fence, I would highly recommend just giving it a try. City of Thieves just has a way of pulling you in and the characters are so genuine that I found myself hearing their laughter, feeling their hunger, and thinking of my own way out of their unique situations. You won't be able to predict where the story goes at any point.
I'm looking forward to checking out the rest of Benioff's work!
A perfect split between absolutely grim and beautifully uplifting– my face was glued to this story as I yearned for it to unfold. Benioff did an amazing job with the pacing, the characters, and the perfect level of detail.
While this certainly falls under the category of historical fiction, I think it would appeal to both fans and enemies of the genre. At its core, it's just a great story with suspense, drama, and comedy. And I'm sure it even counts as learning about of the Siege of Leningrad, although you won't find any of the historical detail boring.
For those on the fence, I would highly recommend just giving it a try. City of Thieves just has a way of pulling you in and the characters are so genuine that I found myself hearing their laughter, feeling their hunger, and thinking of my own way out of their unique situations. You won't be able to predict where the story goes at any point.
I'm looking forward to checking out the rest of Benioff's work!
Added to listOwnedwith 12 books.
