If there's one thing about me, I'm going to read a novel by an Irish author. Especially one who has written works that I've fallen in love with previously. In the case of Eimear McBride, they check both boxes. Irish writer and wrote one of my favorite novels of all time, A Girl is a Half-Formed Thing.

I'll say this and this only about The City Changes Its Face: it was superb and I have no notes. I want to read it again already.

this was so interesting! the way the book is written, very poetic, very gorgeous. it took me a while to get in to the flow and style of the book, and i think a physical copy would be much better to read and understand with.

besides that the actual story is very good, and emotional. thank you

A hypnotic, unconventional novel, The City Changes Its Face is a masterclass in poetic prose and psychological depth. Eily and Grace navigate a shifting urban landscape where emotions blur into fragmented thoughts and half-formed truths. McBride’s signature stream-of-consciousness style immerses readers in an intense, atmospheric experience—one that won’t be for everyone but will deeply resonate with those who appreciate literary experimentation. While the tonal shift in the second half may not land as strongly, the novel remains a haunting, thought-provoking read. Fans of plays, metaphor-laden narratives, and introspective fiction should not miss this.

The City Changes Its Face is a novel of observation and unique stylistic choice.

I feel the writing style may not be for everyone, but it was definitely for me! Metaphor and half formed enigmas are used to describe the true feelings of our characters.

Emotions are high at the start of this book, and that really drew me in. I highlighted almost every page in the first half of this novel. There's a change in tone in the second half that didn't work as well for me, but I still really respect.

If you enjoy reading plays, you will definitely love this. I also recommend this to those who delight in creative minds, and if you have been wanting a new kind of reading experience, please pick this up.

I love Eily as a character and Grace as well. I think they were very three-dimensional. It was very cool seeing their motives revealed after not quite understating some of their actions at times in the book.

Note that there are some darker themes in this book, so please check trigger warnings. However, this is the perfect read for those who want to spiral down into a relationship with some beautifully complex characters whose thoughts flow like poetry.

Thank you to NetGalley and Faber & Faber for providing an eARC of The City Changes Its Face in exchange for my honest opinions.