In a future desert city, a young orphan, a loyal officer, and a deadly artist navigate a world of sentient robots, ancient mysteries, and the aftermath of wars, all while exploring themes of love, memory, and the impact of violence on society. Lavie Tidhar's "Neom" intricately weaves together diverse characters and a richly imagined world, offering a blend of science fiction, fantasy, and human emotion in a compact and thought-provoking narrative.

"Neom" by Lavie Tidhar is a captivating and imaginative science fiction novel that transports readers to a richly detailed, far-future world. Set in the same universe as Tidhar's acclaimed "Central Station," this standalone story explores the complex relationships between humans, robots, and the remnants of past wars in a desert city on the brink of revolution.

One of the novel's greatest strengths is its immersive worldbuilding. Tidhar masterfully crafts the city of Neom, a technologically advanced wonderland for the wealthy that coexists with an urban sprawl along the Red Sea. The contrast between the glittering city and the war-torn desert, littered with unexploded ordnance and wandering machines, creates a fascinating and thought-provoking setting. Tidhar's vivid descriptions bring the world to life, making it easy for readers to lose themselves in the story.

The characters in "Neom" are diverse and well-developed, each with their own unique perspectives and struggles. From the young orphan Saleh, who joins a caravan in hopes of earning passage off-world, to the loyal police officer Nasir and the hardworking flower-seller Mariam, whose childhood affection is rekindled, Tidhar imbues his characters with depth and relatability. The inclusion of the unnamed robot, searching for purpose and lost love, adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, exploring themes of identity and what it means to be human.

Tidhar's prose is beautiful and evocative, effortlessly weaving together multiple storylines and character arcs. The pacing is deliberate, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world and connect with the characters. As the novel progresses, the seemingly disparate threads begin to intertwine, building towards a satisfying and thought-provoking conclusion.

"Neom" also explores a range of profound themes, such as the nature of art, the consequences of war, and the search for purpose and love in a world shaped by technology. Tidhar's treatment of these themes is both gentle and whimsical, offering a fresh perspective on topics that have been extensively explored in other media.

The novel has been praised by critics and readers alike, with many recognizing Tidhar's genius and the unique vision he brings to the science fiction genre. "Neom" has garnered a strong average rating of 3.87 out of 5 stars from over 500 reader ratings on popular book review platforms, with many reviewers commending the worldbuilding, character development, and thought-provoking themes.

In conclusion, "Neom" is a remarkable achievement in science fiction, showcasing Lavie Tidhar's unparalleled imagination and storytelling prowess. With its captivating world, memorable characters, and exploration of profound themes, this novel is sure to resonate with fans of the genre and newcomers alike. "Neom" is a must-read for anyone seeking a fresh, engaging, and thought-provoking science fiction experience.