In the words of the modern British scholar of Russian and Georgian literature, Donald Rayfield, "his vivid story-telling, straight in medias res, his buoyant humour, subtle irony, and moral courage merit comparison with those of Stendhal, Guy de Maupassant, and Émile Zola. In modern Georgian prose only Konstantine Gamsakhurdia could aspire to the same international level."
In the words of a contemporary British scholar specializing in Russian and Georgian literature, Donald Rayfield, "his engaging narrative style, direct into the midst of things, his lively humor, subtle wit, and moral fortitude warrant comparison with those of Stendhal, Guy de Maupassant, and Émile Zola. In modern Georgian prose only Konstantine Gamsakhurdia could hope to attain an international standard comparable to theirs."