This book is actually three stories in chronological order with the same characters and world. There isn't an overall story arc really, so calling this a novel is a little off.

It's an enjoyable read, although not nearly as deep as the story likes to think of itself. Some aspects between the different stories are irritatingly repetitive, as similar themes and idea get rehashed the same way in each story, with similar conclusions.

That being said, I quite appreciated the wry Russian humor in some parts, and the world that's created is certainly interesting. It's not a must-read, but if the description seems of interest, you will be entertained.