Fiasco in New Crobuzon

From the introduction: Secret lovers make out furtively in the shadow of The Ribs, while sordid drug deals that could bring the City to its knees take place in the hovel behind them. A bitter-faced cactacae cocks his rivebow in a back alley before rampaging against the militiamen who killed his comrade in cold blood. That smell emanating from Salacus Fields has been there a week, and rumors have begun to spread about its terrifying origin. Better find a way to keep your head down, though that only works so long...