I definitely found it a slog, which seemed apt given that so much of it very literally was for the two lead characters. I did enjoy the book, but as a mental exercise, and an opportunity to examine a famous book and see why it was famous. It was not a fun read, and not one I'd choose to read again. Mention of China Mieville reminds me of his Embassytown which dealt at more length on some of the issues of language Le Guin raises in this book. Embassytown I both enjoyed reading for the mental stimulation and liked as a pleasant recreational read.