So, The Scar. I raved about Miéville a couple of posts ago and I was only a little way into reading my second book by him.

My opinion is no less positive to say the least. In fact it’s even higher.

The Scar is simply amazing. The unfolding world of Bas-Lag continues to amaze as China unveils more and more of it. It’s complex and rich, no less so than any of a number of fantasy worlds, from Middle Earth to the world of Tad Williams’ Memory, Sorry and Thorn.

The cast of characters is amazing. As the epic scope of what is going on in the floating city of Armada unfolds, you will love some, be amazed by others, and pity nearly all of them at one point or another. Your emotions and loyalties will shift along with characters’ as the intricate plots unfold.

Through these people, Miéville makes us care about places too: Armada and New Crobuzon (although, in this latter case, it might not if you haven’t read Perdido Street Station) become near and dear to our hearts. If you’ve watched The Red Violin you know what I mean.

So, by all means read this soon. Probably you should read Perdido first, but it’s not necessary – it’s just damn good too.

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