City of Stairs: A Novel

Robert Jackson Bennett

Sep 2014 · The Divine Cities Book 1 · Sold by Del Rey

About this ebook

An atmospheric and intrigue-filled novel of dead gods, buried histories, and a mysterious, protean city--from one of America's most acclaimed young fantasy writers.

The city of Bulikov once wielded the powers of the gods to conquer the world, enslaving and brutalizing millions—until its divine protectors were killed. Now Bulikov has become just another colonial outpost of the world's new geopolitical power, but the surreal landscape of the city itself—first shaped, now shattered, by the thousands of miracles its guardians once worked upon it—stands as a constant, haunting reminder of its former supremacy.

Into this broken city steps Shara Thivani. Officially, the unassuming young woman is just another junior diplomat sent by Bulikov's oppressors. Unofficially, she is one of her country's most accomplished spies, dispatched to catch a murderer. But as Shara pursues the killer, she starts to suspect that the beings who ruled this terrible place may not be as dead as they seem—and that Bulikov's cruel reign may not yet be over.

Ratings and reviews

The story itself was an interesting concept, and that's what drew me to start this book. I have never read anything by this author before, but overall, I would have to say I disliked it. I absolutely couldn't get over how many italics in dialogue that the author used! Every page had at least one italicized word; it was as if in my head they spoke like teenagers with emphasis on EVERY other WORD. The plot twists also were predictable, and offered no mystery. Which I was looking forward to. Too bad.

It got off to a slow start then introduced me to a believable and unforgettable new place. I could see myself living in Bulikov.

I Loved It. The Divine, the magic, everything, just wonderful. Can't wait to start the next book! Definitely give it a try, was a page turner for me.

About the author

ROBERT JACKSON BENNETT is the author of American Elsewhere, The Troupe, The Company Man, and Mr. Shivers. His books have been awarded the Edgar Award, the Shirley Jackson, and the Philip K. Dick Citation of Excellence. He lives in Austin with his wife and son.