King Rat is a novel by China Miéville, first published in 1998. The story is set in London and follows the life of Saul Garamond, a young man who is half-human, half-rat.
Saul is a talented musician who lives in the shadows of London's underground music scene. He is also the leader of a group of rats who have formed their own society beneath the city.
When Saul is arrested for a crime he didn't commit, he is thrown into prison where he meets King Rat, the ruler of the rat society. King Rat helps Saul escape and together they begin a journey to uncover the truth behind Saul's arrest and the mysterious disappearance of his father.
The novel is a blend of urban fantasy, horror, and crime fiction. It explores themes of identity, belonging, and the struggle for power. It is notable for its vivid portrayal of London's urban landscape and its use of language to create a dark and atmospheric mood.
King Rat was Miéville's debut novel and was widely praised for its originality, imagination, and literary style. It won the August Derleth Award for best novel in 2000 and helped establish Miéville as one of the most innovative and exciting voices in contemporary fantasy and speculative fiction.
0