Pfitz by Andrew Crumey

The novel is set in a fantastical 18th-century European city, where a ruler commissions the creation of an imaginary city as a grand artistic project. The story follows the lives of various characters involved in this endeavor, including a cartographer and a librarian, as they navigate the blurred lines between reality and imagination. As the project progresses, the characters' lives become increasingly intertwined with the fictional city, leading to unexpected revelations and a deeper exploration of themes such as creativity, identity, and the nature of existence. The narrative weaves together elements of romance, mystery, and philosophical inquiry, creating a richly layered and thought-provoking tale.