Wow. I have given everything I've read by China Miéville so far a high rating and this novella is no exception. My brother picked this one up, read it in one sitting, then told me in a text: "definitely recommend, doesn't disappoint, I don't want to say anything about it because the less you know going in the better, I think." I feel like this sums it up. I knew nothing going in and am left feeling like I've got more questions and wonderings than I do answers -- this is not a tidy story with a clear resolution, but rather a story made up of shadows and suggestions and rumours, so much uncertainty. Atmospheric and creepy.
content warning: clearly described violence against non-human animals, implied violence against humans
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EDIT: This book stuck with me. It got under my skin; I had conversations about it with others who read it and told those who hadn't read it about it. I don't think I've ever done this before but I've returned to my review to increase the star rating.