Status
Available
Call number
Series
Genres
Publication
Broadway Books (New York, 2014). 1st edition, 1st printing. 464 pages. $15.00.
Description
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.… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member TadAD
Looking at the average rating for this book, I'm definitely bucking the trend. The book was certainly readable; I'm not saying differently. Yet, when I had finished, I was left disappointed and unsatisfied. This isn't a positive review and much of that is simply that I'm so frustrated: the buzz on
The problem was that I found everything to be too shallow. In a nutshell, we have a police procedural in a fantasy setting, with various subplots around both political and social revolutions, a semi-romance, and a lost prince. Had Bennett focused on any one or two of those...well, except for the cliché lost prince subplot...and repurposed the pages devoted to the others toward that end, I think I would have been pleased.
However, as it was written, the mystery component was transparent. Anyone paying attention figured out who most of the bad guys were and, if they were really paying attention, they knew who all the bad guys were. I honestly remember thinking around 50% of the way through the book, "It's going to be X and Y. I'm not sure how they're related, but it will be X and Y who did it." I was quite disappointed to find out that, not only was I right, but I had their motivations about 95% correct shortly thereafter.
The fantasy aspect was, in some ways, the most disappointing because it had so much potential. Bennett had some great ideas that weren't just Epic Fantasy Clone #173, but it's as if he didn't take the time to flesh them out beyond the "cool idea" stage into a real world in his own mind, one that he could show us rather than one to which he could only allude.
The premise that reality wasn't the same everywhere; the premise that people had come to rely on the constant intervention of the gods so much that they sometimes forgot how to do ordinary things; the premise that the pantheon didn't start out as a pantheon...and some other premises that would be spoilers if I mentioned them...all these were intriguing. Unfortunately, after tantalizing us with them, we got a listing of divine beings and some of their attributes and the rest was mostly left to "As you know, Bob" moments that absolutely grated in their artificiality. Far too much Tell and not enough Show for me.
As for the side plots, well, my opinion of the lost prince part is obvious. The romance was so superficial and so inconsequential to the story that the book would have been better served if it had simply been eliminated. The gay/straight tensions would have been interesting if explored but, given short shrift the way they were, the whole thing was a distraction. The social and political upheavals were good; I got a sense of the world through them. It wouldn't have been a mistake to focus even more on them but I was content with what I got.
As for the characters, there really was only one who is real: Shara, the protagonist. There was enough complexity to her personality that she felt human to me and she clearly has a fascinating backstory that I'd like to hear some day.
The other primary character, Sigrud, was an inhumanly competent, laconic, berserker-type fellow who I think had gotten lost from a Marvel comic somewhere. In fact, he and his story—Come on, it's not a spoiler who he is, is it? I mean, really, admit it, you know it from the instant it's mentioned, don't you?—seem like one of those Marvel things where an unrelated story is briefly mentioned in one panel so that we can have a spinoff story down the line.
The secondary character Mulaghesh, head of the local peace-keeping force, was interesting (she reminded me of the Roman general, Cincinnatus, for some reason). Although she's a minor player in this book, I can see a good character emerging from her. Everyone else in the story was a flat piece in the mystery puzzle, a name associated with a role and nothing more.
I'm so frustrated with this book. I wanted the possibilities of Bennett's ideas to be realized but they fell short and it's no more than an okay story, in my opinion.
Will I read a sequel if and when it comes out? Maybe, if I can get it inexpensively...just to find out whether practice makes better, or whether the promise inherent in this world is more than the author is able to deliver.
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this book had set expectations quite high and, as it started, the world seemed so completely fascinating. However...The problem was that I found everything to be too shallow. In a nutshell, we have a police procedural in a fantasy setting, with various subplots around both political and social revolutions, a semi-romance, and a lost prince. Had Bennett focused on any one or two of those...well, except for the cliché lost prince subplot...and repurposed the pages devoted to the others toward that end, I think I would have been pleased.
However, as it was written, the mystery component was transparent. Anyone paying attention figured out who most of the bad guys were and, if they were really paying attention, they knew who all the bad guys were. I honestly remember thinking around 50% of the way through the book, "It's going to be X and Y. I'm not sure how they're related, but it will be X and Y who did it." I was quite disappointed to find out that, not only was I right, but I had their motivations about 95% correct shortly thereafter.
The fantasy aspect was, in some ways, the most disappointing because it had so much potential. Bennett had some great ideas that weren't just Epic Fantasy Clone #173, but it's as if he didn't take the time to flesh them out beyond the "cool idea" stage into a real world in his own mind, one that he could show us rather than one to which he could only allude.
The premise that reality wasn't the same everywhere; the premise that people had come to rely on the constant intervention of the gods so much that they sometimes forgot how to do ordinary things; the premise that the pantheon didn't start out as a pantheon...and some other premises that would be spoilers if I mentioned them...all these were intriguing. Unfortunately, after tantalizing us with them, we got a listing of divine beings and some of their attributes and the rest was mostly left to "As you know, Bob" moments that absolutely grated in their artificiality. Far too much Tell and not enough Show for me.
As for the side plots, well, my opinion of the lost prince part is obvious. The romance was so superficial and so inconsequential to the story that the book would have been better served if it had simply been eliminated. The gay/straight tensions would have been interesting if explored but, given short shrift the way they were, the whole thing was a distraction. The social and political upheavals were good; I got a sense of the world through them. It wouldn't have been a mistake to focus even more on them but I was content with what I got.
As for the characters, there really was only one who is real: Shara, the protagonist. There was enough complexity to her personality that she felt human to me and she clearly has a fascinating backstory that I'd like to hear some day.
The other primary character, Sigrud, was an inhumanly competent, laconic, berserker-type fellow who I think had gotten lost from a Marvel comic somewhere. In fact, he and his story—Come on, it's not a spoiler who he is, is it? I mean, really, admit it, you know it from the instant it's mentioned, don't you?—seem like one of those Marvel things where an unrelated story is briefly mentioned in one panel so that we can have a spinoff story down the line.
The secondary character Mulaghesh, head of the local peace-keeping force, was interesting (she reminded me of the Roman general, Cincinnatus, for some reason). Although she's a minor player in this book, I can see a good character emerging from her. Everyone else in the story was a flat piece in the mystery puzzle, a name associated with a role and nothing more.
I'm so frustrated with this book. I wanted the possibilities of Bennett's ideas to be realized but they fell short and it's no more than an okay story, in my opinion.
Will I read a sequel if and when it comes out? Maybe, if I can get it inexpensively...just to find out whether practice makes better, or whether the promise inherent in this world is more than the author is able to deliver.
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LibraryThing member pwaites
Phenomenal. If I have to chose one word to describe City of Stairs, that would be it. Phenomenal.
City of Stairs is the story of two countries, the Continent with it’s divine city of Bulikov and Saypur, a land across the South Sea. For centuries Bulikov and the Continent were able to dominate
When a Saypuri historian is killed in Buikov, in steps Shara Komayd, a high ranking intelligence officer. She’s given one week to find the killer, but she starts to find a whole lot more in Buikov, the city of stairs.
One of the best aspects of City of Stairs was the world building. The world felt real, it breathed, it was vivid. Buikov and Saypur came alive. More so, the world felt unique.
In a genre filled with medieval Europe based worlds, I loved the diversity of City of Stairs. The cast was largely Saypuri and thus non-white. While I don’t know how accurate this is, I got the feeling that Saypur was based off India.
The characterization was also excellent. Shara was a great heroine, and I liked how she wasn’t the only important female character. In fact, she frequently works with Mulaghesh, the female governor of the area. The other secondary characters are fascinating as well.
City of Stairs also does a good job depicting moral ambiguity. It never falls into the trap of depicting one side as good and the other as evil. Instead, it creates a complex situation where it’s possible to feel sympathy for both sides. All of this fit well with its thematic exploration of colonialism and oppression, as well as ties to the past versus looking to the future.
About half way through, the pacing really took off, and the suspense ratcheted up. It was to the point where I stayed up three hours later than I planned to finish it.
I would recommend City of Stairs for fans of Three Parts Dead or for anyone else looking for an intriguing and well written novel.
Originally posted on The Illustrated Page.
City of Stairs is the story of two countries, the Continent with it’s divine city of Bulikov and Saypur, a land across the South Sea. For centuries Bulikov and the Continent were able to dominate
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Saypur through the might of Bulikov’s Divinities. Then, a Saypuri man called the Kaj figured out how to kill the gods. Now, the gods are dead and Saypur controls the Continent and the city of Bulikov.When a Saypuri historian is killed in Buikov, in steps Shara Komayd, a high ranking intelligence officer. She’s given one week to find the killer, but she starts to find a whole lot more in Buikov, the city of stairs.
One of the best aspects of City of Stairs was the world building. The world felt real, it breathed, it was vivid. Buikov and Saypur came alive. More so, the world felt unique.
In a genre filled with medieval Europe based worlds, I loved the diversity of City of Stairs. The cast was largely Saypuri and thus non-white. While I don’t know how accurate this is, I got the feeling that Saypur was based off India.
The characterization was also excellent. Shara was a great heroine, and I liked how she wasn’t the only important female character. In fact, she frequently works with Mulaghesh, the female governor of the area. The other secondary characters are fascinating as well.
City of Stairs also does a good job depicting moral ambiguity. It never falls into the trap of depicting one side as good and the other as evil. Instead, it creates a complex situation where it’s possible to feel sympathy for both sides. All of this fit well with its thematic exploration of colonialism and oppression, as well as ties to the past versus looking to the future.
About half way through, the pacing really took off, and the suspense ratcheted up. It was to the point where I stayed up three hours later than I planned to finish it.
I would recommend City of Stairs for fans of Three Parts Dead or for anyone else looking for an intriguing and well written novel.
Originally posted on The Illustrated Page.
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LibraryThing member LizzieD
This is review #14. The earlier 13 have all been positive, with 3½ stars being the lowest rating. I am very happy to fall right in line: City of Stairs is indeed a fascinating fantasy winner! It smacks a bit of the new weird of China Miéville, but it is very much its own thing, a thing that can
Shara Thivani, ostensibly a minor cultural diplomat, has been called to the Continent to the city of Bulikov with her hulking secretary Sigrud. In fact, she is a high-ranking operative of Saypur's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, niece of the Minister, and is in Bulikov to investigate the murder of a Saypuri national. That's about as straightforward as it gets.
Bulikov has been under the dominion of Saypur for two hundred years. For more hundreds before that, Saypur was dominated by Bulikov and its gods. A Saypuri hero has killed the gods, and in the Blink, the reality of the city changed. What was the gods' died with them, and what was human struggled to survive.
The plot progresses with mystery and adventure and monsters and a thoughtful working out of what happens to a people who make gods in their own image, endow them with power, and then worship them. I mentioned Miéville in the first paragraph. Bulikov does not have the power of his New Crobuzon (Perdido Street Station) or Besźel/Ul Qoma (The City and The City); I can live in those places in my mind years after having read them. The characters, however, are more finely drawn and more human than Miéville's, and I will be living with their companionship for quite some time. Thank you, Early Reviewers, for this experience!
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be read on at least a couple of levels.Shara Thivani, ostensibly a minor cultural diplomat, has been called to the Continent to the city of Bulikov with her hulking secretary Sigrud. In fact, she is a high-ranking operative of Saypur's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, niece of the Minister, and is in Bulikov to investigate the murder of a Saypuri national. That's about as straightforward as it gets.
Bulikov has been under the dominion of Saypur for two hundred years. For more hundreds before that, Saypur was dominated by Bulikov and its gods. A Saypuri hero has killed the gods, and in the Blink, the reality of the city changed. What was the gods' died with them, and what was human struggled to survive.
The plot progresses with mystery and adventure and monsters and a thoughtful working out of what happens to a people who make gods in their own image, endow them with power, and then worship them. I mentioned Miéville in the first paragraph. Bulikov does not have the power of his New Crobuzon (Perdido Street Station) or Besźel/Ul Qoma (The City and The City); I can live in those places in my mind years after having read them. The characters, however, are more finely drawn and more human than Miéville's, and I will be living with their companionship for quite some time. Thank you, Early Reviewers, for this experience!
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LibraryThing member lyrrael
Years ago, the city of Bulikov wielded the powers of the Gods to conquer the world. But after its divine protectors were mysteriously killed, the city's proud history has been erased and censored, progress has left it behind, and it is just another colonial outpost of the world's new geopolitical
I kept getting vibes of China Mieville’s City and the City while I was reading this for some reason -- probably the parallel worlds coexisting in one place. I have to admit, about 3/4s of the way through I started laughing out loud at some of the things being spouted -- it seemed like an indictment against those musty Old Testament rules that make no sense at all anymore, and I just couldn’t stop myself. 10/10, would read again, loved it.
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power. Into this musty, backward city steps Shara Divani. Officially, she’s just another lowly diplomat; unofficially, Shara is one of her country's most accomplished spymasters — dispatched to investigate the brutal murder of a seemingly harmless historian. As Shara pursues the mystery through the ever-shifting physical and political geography of the city, she begins to suspect that the beings who once protected Bulikov may not be as dead as they seem. I kept getting vibes of China Mieville’s City and the City while I was reading this for some reason -- probably the parallel worlds coexisting in one place. I have to admit, about 3/4s of the way through I started laughing out loud at some of the things being spouted -- it seemed like an indictment against those musty Old Testament rules that make no sense at all anymore, and I just couldn’t stop myself. 10/10, would read again, loved it.
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LibraryThing member reconditereader
I got this book free through LTER. Wonderfully, it reminded me of Max Gladstone's Three Parts Dead, which I loved. The similar part is the mixture of gods, humans, laws, miracles, and politics. However, City of Stairs is a very different book.
Things I enjoyed about this book included the strong
The ending is satisfying while still leaving a little window for more books in this universe (MOAR SIGRUD!!). When City of Stairs comes out, pick it up.
Things I enjoyed about this book included the strong
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female characters, the use of present tense, and the twisty plot. In fact, most of the characters (both male and female) were fascinating. Also, GIANT SEA MONSTER! The unique fantasy setting seems influenced by British colonization of India, but in this universe the long-term consequences are very back-and-forth. The ending is satisfying while still leaving a little window for more books in this universe (MOAR SIGRUD!!). When City of Stairs comes out, pick it up.
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LibraryThing member macsbrains
I admit to being wary of authors I've never heard of, but this book turned out better than I expected and was a surprise. I didn't think it was groundbreaking or outstanding like Jemisin's One Hundred Thousand Kingdoms trilogy, but it was definitely interesting and entertaining with much to like.
The city was an incredible setting. With its half-magical nature, the modern and the mundane built atop unstable magical bones, it had an old-school urban fantasy vibe which gave it very palpable life. The history and nature of the divinities in the world was the most fascinating aspect. I liked how the old stories would represent the divinities as light or running water or human-formed or a flock of starlings and all would be true. There was brief, but interesting discussion of the nature of reciprocity in a relationship with a divinity which informed the plot nicely.
The characters were decent. It was a nice change to have a main character who was an analytical woman, and I really liked that about her, but I never connected to her emotionally. I did adore Vohannes very much though. The big one-eyed northern giant Sigurd was cool, but he was designed to be cool and that rather took away from him. He had some awesome scenes full of swash and buckle, but... I don't know, I think also having the other characters comment on how cool he is made it all seem like the author was trying too hard.
Overall I had a good time reading it, and I'll be honest, giant squids are the way to my heart.
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The city was an incredible setting. With its half-magical nature, the modern and the mundane built atop unstable magical bones, it had an old-school urban fantasy vibe which gave it very palpable life. The history and nature of the divinities in the world was the most fascinating aspect. I liked how the old stories would represent the divinities as light or running water or human-formed or a flock of starlings and all would be true. There was brief, but interesting discussion of the nature of reciprocity in a relationship with a divinity which informed the plot nicely.
The characters were decent. It was a nice change to have a main character who was an analytical woman, and I really liked that about her, but I never connected to her emotionally. I did adore Vohannes very much though. The big one-eyed northern giant Sigurd was cool, but he was designed to be cool and that rather took away from him. He had some awesome scenes full of swash and buckle, but... I don't know, I think also having the other characters comment on how cool he is made it all seem like the author was trying too hard.
Overall I had a good time reading it, and I'll be honest, giant squids are the way to my heart.
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LibraryThing member dougcornelius
City of Stairs combines fantasy mythology with political intrigue and a murder mystery. At times it's good, at other times it's very mediocre, and then there's times it swirls around a confusing story.
The publisher's description sounded interesting so I took a review copy. I almost threw the book
There are a few compelling characters that improved the story. But the rest were flat or muddled.
The central mythology of the book had some interesting aspects. The central theme of the mythology resonated. As you moved from the center, it became confusing and less interesting.
In retrospect, I would have passed on this book and grabbed something else from my lengthy "to read" list.
The publisher's description sounded interesting so I took a review copy. I almost threw the book
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into my "didn't finish reading" stack. But by the time I reached my 10% decision-making point the story and the characters started making sense. I pushed on. There are a few compelling characters that improved the story. But the rest were flat or muddled.
The central mythology of the book had some interesting aspects. The central theme of the mythology resonated. As you moved from the center, it became confusing and less interesting.
In retrospect, I would have passed on this book and grabbed something else from my lengthy "to read" list.
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LibraryThing member Katyas
Book Info: Genre: Mystery/fantasy
Reading Level: Adult
Recommended for: Folks who like to think deep thoughts, enjoy a good story
Book Available: September 9, 2014 in paperback and Kindle formats
Trigger Warnings: murder, slavery (historically), religious persecution
My Thoughts: I really enjoy
And Olvos said to them: “Why have you done this, my children? Why is the sky wreathed with smoke? Why have you made war in far places, and shed blood in strange lands?
And they said to Her: “You blessed us as Your people, and we rejoiced, and were happy. But we found those who were not Your people, and they would not become Your people, and they were willful and ignorant of You. They would not open their ears to Your songs, or lay Your words upon their tongues. So we dashed them upon the rocks and threw down their houses and shed their blood and scattered them to the winds, and we were right to do so. For we are Your people. We carry Your blessings. We are Yours, and so we are right. Is this not what You said?”
And Olvos was silent.
I was very amused by the anti-bureaucracy sentiments expressed in the book, too, as shown in these segments:
There is no crueler hells then committee work.
Shara now sits on committees that decide who shall be nominated to be committee chairs for other committees, then, after these meetings, she sits on committee meetings to formulate agendas for future meetings, and after them, she attends committee meetings deciding who shall be appointed to appoint appointments to committees.
“These meetings, they're like thieves—they follow you around, wait until you're not looking, and pounce.”
I really liked the characters, and the development of those characters. The changes are slow and subtle, just like in life, but end up being life-altering in the end. It was very well done. I was left with a lot of lingering thoughts about power and powerlessness and how those who initially lacked power will often abuse it once they have it. The Saypuri were treated as slaves under the control of the Continentals, and when they finally rose up and overthrew them, the Saypuri persecuted the Continentals, refusing to allow them to so much as mention their gods (or Divinities), forbidding “miracles” (essentially magic spells), and denying the Continentals their own history or access to their own texts from the past. One would think that it would be common sense to not do something like that, as it just leads to more conflict, but then again, the lust for power rarely bows to common sense or logic.
So, a really good book. It made me think and ponder on various topics, many of them quite weighty, while at the same time providing an entertaining story. I recommend this to anyone who likes deep thoughts, a good story, and a cross-genre tale. This book won't be available until September, but you can pre-order it if it sounds like your thing.
Disclosure: I received an ARC/proof copy from the Amazon Vine program in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis: Years ago, the city of Bulikov wielded the powers of the Gods to conquer the world. But after its divine protectors were mysteriously killed, the conqueror has become the conquered; the city's proud history has been erased and censored, progress has left it behind, and it is just another colonial outpost of the world's new geopolitical power. Into this musty, backward city steps Shara Divani. Officially, the quiet, mousy woman is just another lowly diplomat sent by Bulikov's oppressors. Unofficially, Shara is one of her country's most accomplished spymasters—dispatched to investigate the brutal murder of a seemingly harmless historian. As Shara pursues the mystery through the ever-shifting physical and political geography of the city, she begins to suspect that the beings who once protected Bulikov may not be as dead as they seem—and that her own abilities might be touched by the divine as well.
Reading Level: Adult
Recommended for: Folks who like to think deep thoughts, enjoy a good story
Book Available: September 9, 2014 in paperback and Kindle formats
Trigger Warnings: murder, slavery (historically), religious persecution
My Thoughts: I really enjoy
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cross-genre stories, and this one hits a few of my favorite buttons: a mystery in a fantasy world. To make things even better, it is a multi-layered story that brings up issues of slavery, personal and religious freedom, and the abuse of power. It was a really excellent story. This little segment, which is before the first page of the first chapter, really encapsulates some of the ideas that are explored in the story, and also express my thoughts on organized religion pretty well.And Olvos said to them: “Why have you done this, my children? Why is the sky wreathed with smoke? Why have you made war in far places, and shed blood in strange lands?
And they said to Her: “You blessed us as Your people, and we rejoiced, and were happy. But we found those who were not Your people, and they would not become Your people, and they were willful and ignorant of You. They would not open their ears to Your songs, or lay Your words upon their tongues. So we dashed them upon the rocks and threw down their houses and shed their blood and scattered them to the winds, and we were right to do so. For we are Your people. We carry Your blessings. We are Yours, and so we are right. Is this not what You said?”
And Olvos was silent.
I was very amused by the anti-bureaucracy sentiments expressed in the book, too, as shown in these segments:
There is no crueler hells then committee work.
Shara now sits on committees that decide who shall be nominated to be committee chairs for other committees, then, after these meetings, she sits on committee meetings to formulate agendas for future meetings, and after them, she attends committee meetings deciding who shall be appointed to appoint appointments to committees.
“These meetings, they're like thieves—they follow you around, wait until you're not looking, and pounce.”
I really liked the characters, and the development of those characters. The changes are slow and subtle, just like in life, but end up being life-altering in the end. It was very well done. I was left with a lot of lingering thoughts about power and powerlessness and how those who initially lacked power will often abuse it once they have it. The Saypuri were treated as slaves under the control of the Continentals, and when they finally rose up and overthrew them, the Saypuri persecuted the Continentals, refusing to allow them to so much as mention their gods (or Divinities), forbidding “miracles” (essentially magic spells), and denying the Continentals their own history or access to their own texts from the past. One would think that it would be common sense to not do something like that, as it just leads to more conflict, but then again, the lust for power rarely bows to common sense or logic.
So, a really good book. It made me think and ponder on various topics, many of them quite weighty, while at the same time providing an entertaining story. I recommend this to anyone who likes deep thoughts, a good story, and a cross-genre tale. This book won't be available until September, but you can pre-order it if it sounds like your thing.
Disclosure: I received an ARC/proof copy from the Amazon Vine program in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis: Years ago, the city of Bulikov wielded the powers of the Gods to conquer the world. But after its divine protectors were mysteriously killed, the conqueror has become the conquered; the city's proud history has been erased and censored, progress has left it behind, and it is just another colonial outpost of the world's new geopolitical power. Into this musty, backward city steps Shara Divani. Officially, the quiet, mousy woman is just another lowly diplomat sent by Bulikov's oppressors. Unofficially, Shara is one of her country's most accomplished spymasters—dispatched to investigate the brutal murder of a seemingly harmless historian. As Shara pursues the mystery through the ever-shifting physical and political geography of the city, she begins to suspect that the beings who once protected Bulikov may not be as dead as they seem—and that her own abilities might be touched by the divine as well.
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LibraryThing member Ronercat
In Robert Jackson Bennett's City of Stairs I found a fantasy book unlike any other that I had read. Instead of taking place in a world that felt like Europe in the Middle Ages it takes a different approach and throws you in a world that feels more like Russia than anything else. I am no historian,
A big part of the premise of the book is trying to show you how our view of history can color all of our actions. It also discusses the effect history has on the perception of people. When we are introduced to this world we find out that the "divinities" (the local gods) have been killed off. The country that is currently in power had in the past been subjugated by the lands with divinities for their lack of a deity. Eventually a man discovered a method to kill the divinities and went to war and won. Now that they were in power they were doing their best to suppress all mentions of the divinities and to get rid of all the history that related to their power or the miracles they produced. This leads me to the magic system in the book.
Not only was the setting unique, the magic system was also unlike any other that I had read. While the divinities were alive they created many miracles. Some of them could be as simple as a stone cup that left in the sun would fill with goat's milk every morning. They could imbue an item with power or teach others certain steps to take to have a miracle take shape for them. For example if they drew on a mirror or window with a certain symbol they could create a visual connection with another room to have a conversation with the person there.
When the divinities died most of these stopped working, but not all of them. All items and books that discussed these things were destroyed or locked away for fear that they would be dangerous, in that they would cause the newly godless people to remember what they had lost and cause them to riot.
This book is very well written. It has interesting characters, spies, political intrigue, religious fanaticism and plenty more. I will admit that the first 30-50 pages were decent, but I wasn't hooked until a little bit past that. Once I was hooked however, I couldn't put the book down. I am very interested to see what Bennett will offer us in the future and I hope that this world gets visited at least once more.
Rating 4.5 Stars
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but that is what it felt like to me and I am sticking to it. A big part of the premise of the book is trying to show you how our view of history can color all of our actions. It also discusses the effect history has on the perception of people. When we are introduced to this world we find out that the "divinities" (the local gods) have been killed off. The country that is currently in power had in the past been subjugated by the lands with divinities for their lack of a deity. Eventually a man discovered a method to kill the divinities and went to war and won. Now that they were in power they were doing their best to suppress all mentions of the divinities and to get rid of all the history that related to their power or the miracles they produced. This leads me to the magic system in the book.
Not only was the setting unique, the magic system was also unlike any other that I had read. While the divinities were alive they created many miracles. Some of them could be as simple as a stone cup that left in the sun would fill with goat's milk every morning. They could imbue an item with power or teach others certain steps to take to have a miracle take shape for them. For example if they drew on a mirror or window with a certain symbol they could create a visual connection with another room to have a conversation with the person there.
When the divinities died most of these stopped working, but not all of them. All items and books that discussed these things were destroyed or locked away for fear that they would be dangerous, in that they would cause the newly godless people to remember what they had lost and cause them to riot.
This book is very well written. It has interesting characters, spies, political intrigue, religious fanaticism and plenty more. I will admit that the first 30-50 pages were decent, but I wasn't hooked until a little bit past that. Once I was hooked however, I couldn't put the book down. I am very interested to see what Bennett will offer us in the future and I hope that this world gets visited at least once more.
Rating 4.5 Stars
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LibraryThing member tdashoff
Shara Komayd is a bureaucrat for the Saypuri government, who defeated The Continent and the gods that protected it, leaving the city of Bulikov as a remnant of what had been. She has actually been sent to Bulikov to investigate the murder of a historian who was researching the gods and the fall of
This book reminded me a great deal of China Mieville's The City and the City; both books evoke the same sense of place and both involve an individual trying to solve a murder investigation in a location where they have to work at a disadvantage. The Mieville uses the Breach, a way to keep the citizens of one city from noticing their counterparts in the other city that occupies the same location. Bennett invokes the Wordly Regulations, which prevent citizens from even speaking of the gods or their history under penalty of prosecution. Despite the difficulties in making progress in her investigation, Shara persists until she finally discoveries the reasons behind the crime, and what it means to both the leaders of The Continent and of Saypur.
I first discovered Bennett via his novel The Troupe; this one is completely different and just as excellent. Highly recommended.
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Old Bulikov. Along with her assistant Sigrud, a Dreyling, who is also more than he seems, Shara discovers that history is written by the victors, and that there are secrets in Bulikov that others want to remain that way, including what happened to the gods and the items they left behind.This book reminded me a great deal of China Mieville's The City and the City; both books evoke the same sense of place and both involve an individual trying to solve a murder investigation in a location where they have to work at a disadvantage. The Mieville uses the Breach, a way to keep the citizens of one city from noticing their counterparts in the other city that occupies the same location. Bennett invokes the Wordly Regulations, which prevent citizens from even speaking of the gods or their history under penalty of prosecution. Despite the difficulties in making progress in her investigation, Shara persists until she finally discoveries the reasons behind the crime, and what it means to both the leaders of The Continent and of Saypur.
I first discovered Bennett via his novel The Troupe; this one is completely different and just as excellent. Highly recommended.
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LibraryThing member avanders
Review based on ARC.
I really enjoy Bennett's imagination and creativity. He creates whole new types of people and creatures and worlds, but still manages to make the whole story accessible and interesting.
In City of Stairs, we join Bulikov (aka City of Stairs) in the "present," after it has been
However, the Saypuri government forbids any worship or or even mention of the former Divinities, and so the story begins with the murder of a Saypuri historian who was studying the forbidden Bulikov history and Divinities.
Enter Shara Thivani, cultural ambassador from Saypur, who sets forth to investigate the murder. However, it is very quickly apparent (immediately to the reader) that Ms. Thivani is not actually Ms. Thivani at all, but rather one of the Saypuri ministry's top spies and perhaps much more well connected than initially divulged.
So yeah, it's a sophisticated murder mystery and a fantasy (think: American Gods) rolled into one. But then add the Romeo & Juliet love story, the Dreyling "man" who murders as a matter of course (and also, of course, works for the ministry), a local Saypuri "governor" with a snarky sense of humor, and a whole lot of anger and intrigue, and you've got City of Stairs.
It was complex and involved and thorough and satisfying. It drew me in right from the beginning, and I confess I was up well past "my bedtime" finishing the book. Although the first half takes a little while to really pick up pace, the character, plot, and scenic development is worth the pace. Then, when it starts to move, it MOVES.
The only real critique I have is that I wasn't ever really surprised or ... substantially moved. There is dark humor and dark romance and dark mystery, all my kind of thing and definitely done well, but those moments where you "A-Ha!" or "No!" or "Yes!!".... I don't remember having them. So it wasn't a book where I found myself attached to it, but it is one that I truly enjoyed, am glad I read, and definitely recommend.
Recommend to anyone who enjoys the meatier mysteries/fantasies, something a little smarter. Do not recommend to those who are queasy around fantasy.
FOUR of five stars.
I really enjoy Bennett's imagination and creativity. He creates whole new types of people and creatures and worlds, but still manages to make the whole story accessible and interesting.
In City of Stairs, we join Bulikov (aka City of Stairs) in the "present," after it has been
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conquered and re-established as an outpost of the now-powerful Saypur. Bulikov, formerly run by and taken care of by the Divinities, is now a relative wasteland, barely limping along. Somehow, historical hero The Kaj managed to kill the Divinities, free the Saypuri (Shallies) from their cruel slavery, and establish a government. However, the Saypuri government forbids any worship or or even mention of the former Divinities, and so the story begins with the murder of a Saypuri historian who was studying the forbidden Bulikov history and Divinities.
Enter Shara Thivani, cultural ambassador from Saypur, who sets forth to investigate the murder. However, it is very quickly apparent (immediately to the reader) that Ms. Thivani is not actually Ms. Thivani at all, but rather one of the Saypuri ministry's top spies and perhaps much more well connected than initially divulged.
So yeah, it's a sophisticated murder mystery and a fantasy (think: American Gods) rolled into one. But then add the Romeo & Juliet love story, the Dreyling "man" who murders as a matter of course (and also, of course, works for the ministry), a local Saypuri "governor" with a snarky sense of humor, and a whole lot of anger and intrigue, and you've got City of Stairs.
It was complex and involved and thorough and satisfying. It drew me in right from the beginning, and I confess I was up well past "my bedtime" finishing the book. Although the first half takes a little while to really pick up pace, the character, plot, and scenic development is worth the pace. Then, when it starts to move, it MOVES.
The only real critique I have is that I wasn't ever really surprised or ... substantially moved. There is dark humor and dark romance and dark mystery, all my kind of thing and definitely done well, but those moments where you "A-Ha!" or "No!" or "Yes!!".... I don't remember having them. So it wasn't a book where I found myself attached to it, but it is one that I truly enjoyed, am glad I read, and definitely recommend.
Recommend to anyone who enjoys the meatier mysteries/fantasies, something a little smarter. Do not recommend to those who are queasy around fantasy.
FOUR of five stars.
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LibraryThing member ljbryant
Spies, intrigue, back-room dealings, colonialism, sea monsters, and gods that can be killed. This book mixed two of my favorite genres quite masterfully -- spy thrillers and fantasy. The world building was superb, and I was drawn in from the first page.
The best part is that the story is complete,
The best part is that the story is complete,
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and will stand alone very well -- but the author left himself plenty of room for sequels without leaving a true cliff-hanger. I am quite hopeful that there WILL be sequels. Show Less
LibraryThing member auntmarge64
Science fiction (or fantasy, for some readers) with wonderful world-building and an interesting premise and characters.
On a planet much like Earth of the late 19th century, 80 years have past since the Saypuri, a long-enslaved people, defeated the gods who supported their oppressors. With the gods
This book kept me enthralled from the first few pages, although I have to admit that the wonder of it dulled a bit towards the end, when it became more of a thriller. But well worth the read and highly recommended, even for those who don't normally read sci-fi or fantasy.
On a planet much like Earth of the late 19th century, 80 years have past since the Saypuri, a long-enslaved people, defeated the gods who supported their oppressors. With the gods
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dead, the miraculous advantages they bestowed on the chosen "Continentals" have also disappeared, along with superior technology and immunity from illness. Huge parts of the population died when most of the massive infrastructure disappeared in one "blink", followed by a plague which decimated it further. The hated Saypuri now run the Continent, keeping its inhabitants in poverty and banned from talking or reading about the gods, or displaying symbols relating to them. Even mentioning their names or alluding to their prior existence brings serious punishment. In this hotbed of hate and near rebellion a Saypuri who had been researching the history of the gods has been murdered, and the main character, Shara, arrives under diplomatic cover to investigate his death. What she uncovers will bring about a sea change in racial identity and, possibly, alter the future of both peoples.This book kept me enthralled from the first few pages, although I have to admit that the wonder of it dulled a bit towards the end, when it became more of a thriller. But well worth the read and highly recommended, even for those who don't normally read sci-fi or fantasy.
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LibraryThing member MmeRose
Excellent world building in a story that transcends genres: fantasy, sci fi, philosophy, history, and a touch of thriller. The characters are complex though not always likeable.
I would recommend this highly.
I would recommend this highly.
LibraryThing member Strider66
Pros: intricate world-building, fascinating plot, diverse characters, thought provoking
Cons:
Three hundred years ago the people of Saypur rebelled against the Continent, killing its Gods and enslaving the populace as they had been enslaved. Continental history has been suppressed and any mention of
The idea that the Continent’s people were chosen of the Gods is central to the book. What does it mean when you’re backed by divine right? And conversely, what does it mean to those you enslave, that they are not? Turning the tables on their oppressors, the Saypuri have become what they once hated. It’s clear that despite the time that has passed both sides are still heavily influenced by their past, even if the people no longer have a proper understanding of their history. Old tensions and hatreds cloud modern judgement and ensure that the people of Saypuri keep those on the Continent in poverty, rather than letting them rebuild and start over.
Though the core cast of the book is fairly small, there’s a large enough supporting cast to give the book a grand, epic, feel. The cast is nicely diverse, with several people having visible disabilities (a limp, a missing eye, a facial scar), there’s a prominent homosexual who must hide what he is in the still ultra-conservative Bulikov, and the people of Saypur, we are told, are a dark skinned people. The Saypuri are an equal opportunity country with women in numerous positions of power, though the protagonist is still referred to as ‘my girl’ by an older gentleman of her nation, showing that not everyone there is progressive.
The book did a remarkable job of showing world building through subtleties rather than overt references or gratuitous scenes.
This is a brilliant novel, the kind of book aspiring authors should read over and over again to see how Bennett made his characters and places come alive. If you like intense world-building of the style used in Frank Herbert’s Dune or Max Gladstone’s Three Parts Dead, pick this up. If you’ve been looking for diverse characters, pick this up. Seriously, pick this book up. You won’t regret it.
Cons:
Three hundred years ago the people of Saypur rebelled against the Continent, killing its Gods and enslaving the populace as they had been enslaved. Continental history has been suppressed and any mention of
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the Gods and Their Miracles is considered a criminal act. With tensions high in the ancient capital of Bulikov, it’s not surprising when a Saypuri professor is killed while studying the history of the Continent. Shara Thivani, an intelligence officer with an unhealthy interest in said history, goes there to investigate, and finds more than a simple murder.The idea that the Continent’s people were chosen of the Gods is central to the book. What does it mean when you’re backed by divine right? And conversely, what does it mean to those you enslave, that they are not? Turning the tables on their oppressors, the Saypuri have become what they once hated. It’s clear that despite the time that has passed both sides are still heavily influenced by their past, even if the people no longer have a proper understanding of their history. Old tensions and hatreds cloud modern judgement and ensure that the people of Saypuri keep those on the Continent in poverty, rather than letting them rebuild and start over.
Though the core cast of the book is fairly small, there’s a large enough supporting cast to give the book a grand, epic, feel. The cast is nicely diverse, with several people having visible disabilities (a limp, a missing eye, a facial scar), there’s a prominent homosexual who must hide what he is in the still ultra-conservative Bulikov, and the people of Saypur, we are told, are a dark skinned people. The Saypuri are an equal opportunity country with women in numerous positions of power, though the protagonist is still referred to as ‘my girl’ by an older gentleman of her nation, showing that not everyone there is progressive.
The book did a remarkable job of showing world building through subtleties rather than overt references or gratuitous scenes.
This is a brilliant novel, the kind of book aspiring authors should read over and over again to see how Bennett made his characters and places come alive. If you like intense world-building of the style used in Frank Herbert’s Dune or Max Gladstone’s Three Parts Dead, pick this up. If you’ve been looking for diverse characters, pick this up. Seriously, pick this book up. You won’t regret it.
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LibraryThing member kiesa
Shara Thivani is one of the best spies her government has. When one of Shara's old friends is murdered in a rundown colonial outpost, she dispatches herself to catch his murderer.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Shara was an interesting character: smart, strong, and very interested in a history
I received this book via LibraryThing's Early Reviewer program.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Shara was an interesting character: smart, strong, and very interested in a history
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that is borderline taboo. The basic setup and side characters were also interesting. Sometimes the book recounts old events but does it well without it becoming confusing. Parts of it have a similar feel to Max Gladstone's _Three Parts Dead_.I received this book via LibraryThing's Early Reviewer program.
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LibraryThing member PaperChimera
Robert Jackson Bennett is one of my new favorite authors. I had never heard of him before this book, which is surprising given the awards his previous books have won and been nominated for, and I'm adding his other books to my to-read list. If you're reading this review, stop right now and go pick
City of Stairs is almost so many different genres, but though it firmly remains fantasy, it is by no means the medieval sword-and-sorcery fantasy so many of us are used to. It's almost historical, given the vast amount of history that Bennett builds into his world. It's almost "armchair travel" because it is international, but it doesn't seem to be any past or future version of our world. It's almost dystopian, but it's the dystopian future of a fantasy society after the deaths of their gods. It's almost mystery, because the main character comes to Bulikov to investigate a murder, but in the end that question is the least important thread of this story.
A prominent Saypuri historian is murdered in the Continental city of Bulikov, and shortly afterward, Shara, publicly a Saypuri bureaucrat and secretly a Saypuri intelligence officer, arrives in Bulikov to investigate the murder with her giant of a "secretary" in tow. She uncovers details about the Continent's history, the truth of the gods, and her own history that completely alter her worldview and that may mean the destruction of everything Saypur has built if she can't stop the people intent on restoring the Continent to its former glory.
A lot of people think that excellent world building takes epic-length tomes and sometimes multiple volumes, but in 448 pages, Bennett created an interesting, detailed, historied world so rich I could just sink into it, while simultaneously telling a story that was tightly-plotted, tense, and exciting. I also fell in love with the characters. Shara and Sigrud were both amazing, and all I can do is hope that there will be a sequel.
**Full disclosure: I received a free ARC copy of this book through Library Thing's Early Reviewers program in exchange for an honest review.**
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up this book. Get on the hold list at your local library (or request that they purchase a copy), pre-order it for your own home, but get a copy. If you're still reading, you must want me to tell you more about the book, so the rest of this is for you.City of Stairs is almost so many different genres, but though it firmly remains fantasy, it is by no means the medieval sword-and-sorcery fantasy so many of us are used to. It's almost historical, given the vast amount of history that Bennett builds into his world. It's almost "armchair travel" because it is international, but it doesn't seem to be any past or future version of our world. It's almost dystopian, but it's the dystopian future of a fantasy society after the deaths of their gods. It's almost mystery, because the main character comes to Bulikov to investigate a murder, but in the end that question is the least important thread of this story.
A prominent Saypuri historian is murdered in the Continental city of Bulikov, and shortly afterward, Shara, publicly a Saypuri bureaucrat and secretly a Saypuri intelligence officer, arrives in Bulikov to investigate the murder with her giant of a "secretary" in tow. She uncovers details about the Continent's history, the truth of the gods, and her own history that completely alter her worldview and that may mean the destruction of everything Saypur has built if she can't stop the people intent on restoring the Continent to its former glory.
A lot of people think that excellent world building takes epic-length tomes and sometimes multiple volumes, but in 448 pages, Bennett created an interesting, detailed, historied world so rich I could just sink into it, while simultaneously telling a story that was tightly-plotted, tense, and exciting. I also fell in love with the characters. Shara and Sigrud were both amazing, and all I can do is hope that there will be a sequel.
**Full disclosure: I received a free ARC copy of this book through Library Thing's Early Reviewers program in exchange for an honest review.**
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LibraryThing member bestem
This was quite an interesting book. As I read though, I kept wanting to know more about the past. Perhaps it is because we enjoying the story through the eyes of a historian, but even months after reading the book, I find myself wanting to know more about the nearly forgotten history. I want to
The book was decent, but it left me wanting more than the author delivered, more than he may ever deliver.
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know what was true and what was myth or legend. I also want to experience all the wonders the history in that place had, that they no longer have access to. Lastly, I want to know more about Shara's own history.The book was decent, but it left me wanting more than the author delivered, more than he may ever deliver.
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LibraryThing member twolfe360
When I received City of Stairs by Robert Jackson Bennett, my first thought was that it was another urban fantasy solely by looking at the cover. As I started I got to thinking it is one of those Victorian set fantasies again not a favorite but I was willing to give either of those a try. As luck
For me it is most reminiscent of Randall Garrett's Lord D'Arcy mysteries. We have a new world with it's own political and magical history which the reader discovers as a murder mystery investigation unfolds. The murder ends up having farther reaching political ramifications which lead to a thrilling suspenseful end.
I admit to no longer being able to read a book straight through in one sitting and with work and other time demands, books don't get read as fast as I would like. City of Stairs though kept me wanting to return and get to turning the pages. So I am looking forward to reading other books by Bennett since this one held my attention like no other book in my recent history. He created an interesting world not too far removed from our world's historical political structures so the reader isn't alienated while keeping a faced paced story going. Bennett unfolds the history of the Continent and Saypur as part of murder investigation. Also like any good murder political mystery, the pieces are laid out within the story. As the reveals happen at the end, I didn't feel that Bennett had pulled the proverbial magical rabbit out of the hat as many authors have done when dealing with a magical murder mystery.
My first 5 star book in a while.
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would have it City of Stairs ends up not being that easy to codify. For me it is most reminiscent of Randall Garrett's Lord D'Arcy mysteries. We have a new world with it's own political and magical history which the reader discovers as a murder mystery investigation unfolds. The murder ends up having farther reaching political ramifications which lead to a thrilling suspenseful end.
I admit to no longer being able to read a book straight through in one sitting and with work and other time demands, books don't get read as fast as I would like. City of Stairs though kept me wanting to return and get to turning the pages. So I am looking forward to reading other books by Bennett since this one held my attention like no other book in my recent history. He created an interesting world not too far removed from our world's historical political structures so the reader isn't alienated while keeping a faced paced story going. Bennett unfolds the history of the Continent and Saypur as part of murder investigation. Also like any good murder political mystery, the pieces are laid out within the story. As the reveals happen at the end, I didn't feel that Bennett had pulled the proverbial magical rabbit out of the hat as many authors have done when dealing with a magical murder mystery.
My first 5 star book in a while.
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LibraryThing member angee1011
This was an immensely enjoyable book. So intriguing and it kept me guessing. From start to finish, I was hooked.
I definitely recommend to everyone.
I definitely recommend to everyone.
LibraryThing member stefferoo
I’ve never actually read Robert Jackson Bennett before City of Stairs, despite owning several books by him (and I can see there’s my copies of The Troupe and American Elsewhere on my shelf right now, glaring down at me balefully as if to ask, “Why haven’t you read me yet?”) So though the
Years ago, magic was lost in the central city of Bulikov, then known as the Seat of the World, when its Divinities were killed by a Saypuri hero known as the Kaj. Throwing off the yoke of the Continentals, the Kaj led the rebellion to victory, conquering their conquerors and passing the Worldly Regulations which outlawed the possession and use of divine objects and miracles, even the worshipping of the old gods. With the passing generations, Bulikov went from being a shining capital to just another colonial outpost of world’s new authority
The story begins with the murder of Dr. Efrem Pangyui, the visiting Saypuri scholar who stationed himself in Bulikov to study and document the city’s history to the outrage of the locals who are prohibited from doing so themselves. Enter Shara Komayd, officially there as a lowly ambassador to smooth over matters, but she is not without her own secrets. A direct descendent of the great Kaj, Shara is really one of Saypur’s most accomplished spies, and she is determined to discover the truth behind the murder of the historian, who was also a very close personal friend.
First, let’s talk about the world-building, which is in a word: phenomenal. Admittedly, I wasn’t really convinced I was going to like this book from its first 50 pages or so. The story was slow to take off, but in truth, this had a lot to do with the author’s meticulous efforts to plunge the reader into the intricacies of his setting. Bennett has created many layers of context for this world and has left no stone unturned when it comes to achieving the effect of a living, breathing, working society with the kind of history that Bulikov’s people have endured. Everything from politics to religion has been touched upon, giving us a clear idea of the mood of the city.
The plot didn’t gain momentum until around after the first third of the book, but I can’t say I ever lost interest in reading, being completely captivated by the complexity of the world. Before the Kaj, the six Divinities of the Continentals each had their own worshippers, living by the rules and ideologies of the god they followed. After the Divinities were killed, Bulikov was also devastated by an event known as the Blink, causing chunks of the city to disappear or warp and resulting in a section filled with giant staircases that went nowhere, but which gave the book its title. There’s a lot of history here, not to mention the magic and the miracles described in this novel, which are just so creative and unique.
I also adored the characters. I have a feeling Shara’s companion, the unforgettable and indomitable Sigrud will be a clear fan favorite for many after reading this novel. However, I have to say the soft spot in my heart must go to Turyin Mulaghesh, the soldier turned governor who after years of dealing with the problems and instabilities and Bulikov just wants to be transferred to a quiet little coastal outpost where she can settle down and spend her days lying on the beach – ambitions be damned. But don’t let that fool you, for she is a force to be reckoned with. I love how this novel features two strong, spirited and over 30 women at the forefront, and they are just two of the many great characters in this refreshingly diverse cast.
It was hard to stop, once the story got going. The initial murder mystery deepens into shady political dealings and conspiracy, which ultimately leads to an incredible climax and final showdown that unfortunately was over far too quickly and neatly. But what an experience it was. And yet, City of Stairs is also about so much more than just the thrills and suspense. Bennett dives into some heavy topics here, exploring the significance of religion, attitudes regarding sexuality, and the ramifications of persecution and oppression.
Like I said, this was my first taste of Robert Jackson Bennett’s writing, and I am impressed. This really is an excellent novel, and it deserves to be a hit this year. I suppose I shouldn’t be too surprised to hear there will be a sequel, since this book is the sort that would open doors to many great and interesting possibilities, and its world simply begs to be further explored. Highly recommended. This is an enjoyable fantasy that also makes you think.
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name of the author is familiar to me, I really had no idea what to expect. All I knew was that this book’s description was tantalizing in its promise of an atmospheric, immersive fantasy world, with a touch of the otherworldly and bizarre. As it turns out, City of Stairs is all that and more, being a sophisticated and cerebral cocktail of a multitude of different genre elements, including magic, mystery, and philosophy.Years ago, magic was lost in the central city of Bulikov, then known as the Seat of the World, when its Divinities were killed by a Saypuri hero known as the Kaj. Throwing off the yoke of the Continentals, the Kaj led the rebellion to victory, conquering their conquerors and passing the Worldly Regulations which outlawed the possession and use of divine objects and miracles, even the worshipping of the old gods. With the passing generations, Bulikov went from being a shining capital to just another colonial outpost of world’s new authority
The story begins with the murder of Dr. Efrem Pangyui, the visiting Saypuri scholar who stationed himself in Bulikov to study and document the city’s history to the outrage of the locals who are prohibited from doing so themselves. Enter Shara Komayd, officially there as a lowly ambassador to smooth over matters, but she is not without her own secrets. A direct descendent of the great Kaj, Shara is really one of Saypur’s most accomplished spies, and she is determined to discover the truth behind the murder of the historian, who was also a very close personal friend.
First, let’s talk about the world-building, which is in a word: phenomenal. Admittedly, I wasn’t really convinced I was going to like this book from its first 50 pages or so. The story was slow to take off, but in truth, this had a lot to do with the author’s meticulous efforts to plunge the reader into the intricacies of his setting. Bennett has created many layers of context for this world and has left no stone unturned when it comes to achieving the effect of a living, breathing, working society with the kind of history that Bulikov’s people have endured. Everything from politics to religion has been touched upon, giving us a clear idea of the mood of the city.
The plot didn’t gain momentum until around after the first third of the book, but I can’t say I ever lost interest in reading, being completely captivated by the complexity of the world. Before the Kaj, the six Divinities of the Continentals each had their own worshippers, living by the rules and ideologies of the god they followed. After the Divinities were killed, Bulikov was also devastated by an event known as the Blink, causing chunks of the city to disappear or warp and resulting in a section filled with giant staircases that went nowhere, but which gave the book its title. There’s a lot of history here, not to mention the magic and the miracles described in this novel, which are just so creative and unique.
I also adored the characters. I have a feeling Shara’s companion, the unforgettable and indomitable Sigrud will be a clear fan favorite for many after reading this novel. However, I have to say the soft spot in my heart must go to Turyin Mulaghesh, the soldier turned governor who after years of dealing with the problems and instabilities and Bulikov just wants to be transferred to a quiet little coastal outpost where she can settle down and spend her days lying on the beach – ambitions be damned. But don’t let that fool you, for she is a force to be reckoned with. I love how this novel features two strong, spirited and over 30 women at the forefront, and they are just two of the many great characters in this refreshingly diverse cast.
It was hard to stop, once the story got going. The initial murder mystery deepens into shady political dealings and conspiracy, which ultimately leads to an incredible climax and final showdown that unfortunately was over far too quickly and neatly. But what an experience it was. And yet, City of Stairs is also about so much more than just the thrills and suspense. Bennett dives into some heavy topics here, exploring the significance of religion, attitudes regarding sexuality, and the ramifications of persecution and oppression.
Like I said, this was my first taste of Robert Jackson Bennett’s writing, and I am impressed. This really is an excellent novel, and it deserves to be a hit this year. I suppose I shouldn’t be too surprised to hear there will be a sequel, since this book is the sort that would open doors to many great and interesting possibilities, and its world simply begs to be further explored. Highly recommended. This is an enjoyable fantasy that also makes you think.
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LibraryThing member CinaChilders
This book started off kind of slow, but soon after it began to pick up and became really interesting. I didn’t know what to expect from City of Stairs as I read through pretty much the entire thing. Nothing was predictable, absolutely nothing. There were times, although, where I was confused
I liked the story and I was surprised because at first I was believing I wasn’t going to, due to the slowness of the book in the beginning. I liked how almost all the characters were portrayed. My favorite character was not the main character at all (hardly ever is). I felt indifferent about Shara to be honest. It was Sigrud. He was a total badass. Absolutely loved him. Sigh. As for the ending, I’m wondering, is there going to be a sequel? Because I hate when books just end without fixing all the problems presented in the story.
All in all, I think City of Stairs is interestingly written and original. I would rate it about four out of five stars.
Should you read it?
Yes, if for nothing else. Read it for Sigrud.
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about the setting and whatnot. I liked the story and I was surprised because at first I was believing I wasn’t going to, due to the slowness of the book in the beginning. I liked how almost all the characters were portrayed. My favorite character was not the main character at all (hardly ever is). I felt indifferent about Shara to be honest. It was Sigrud. He was a total badass. Absolutely loved him. Sigh. As for the ending, I’m wondering, is there going to be a sequel? Because I hate when books just end without fixing all the problems presented in the story.
All in all, I think City of Stairs is interestingly written and original. I would rate it about four out of five stars.
Should you read it?
Yes, if for nothing else. Read it for Sigrud.
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LibraryThing member yoyogod
City of Stairs is definitely not your typical otherworldly fantasy. For one thing, it eschews the typical pseudo-medieval setting in favor of something closer to the late 19th/early20th century. The world has trains, guns, gas lighting, cameras, and telegraphs. It is not a steampunk novel though
Besides having a fairly distinctive setting, this book also draws a good bit from the mystery and spy thriller genres. The main character is a spy who goes to the city of Bulikov to investigate the murder of a professor who she greatly admired. Along the way she finds rebellion, political intrigue, and gods.
The gods are what makes this book a fantasy. Long ago, the gods led the people of the continent to conquer the world. Two generation before this story began, a man called the Kaj led a rebellion against the continentals and killed their gods. Of course as you can guess, it turns out that some of the gods survived and their followers are causing trouble.
This was a really great book. Besides being a fantasy/mystery/thriller, it also deals with issues of colonialism, religious fanatacism, and the nature of divinity. This was a really great book.
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(if you were wondering).Besides having a fairly distinctive setting, this book also draws a good bit from the mystery and spy thriller genres. The main character is a spy who goes to the city of Bulikov to investigate the murder of a professor who she greatly admired. Along the way she finds rebellion, political intrigue, and gods.
The gods are what makes this book a fantasy. Long ago, the gods led the people of the continent to conquer the world. Two generation before this story began, a man called the Kaj led a rebellion against the continentals and killed their gods. Of course as you can guess, it turns out that some of the gods survived and their followers are causing trouble.
This was a really great book. Besides being a fantasy/mystery/thriller, it also deals with issues of colonialism, religious fanatacism, and the nature of divinity. This was a really great book.
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LibraryThing member StigE
Just read it. Re-shuffle your to-read pile to put this on top. You'll thank me later.
LibraryThing member jmchshannon
The difficulty with fantasy novels, and the reason why readers shy away from them, is typically the large amount of time spent world-building. For, one has to understand the setting before one can buy into the fantastic elements of the story or understand a character’s motivation. Mr. Jackson
However, it does not take long for readers to understand that Jackson’s world may look familiar but is anything but that. For, in City of Stairs, magic, also known as miracles, and the gods to whom each miracle can be attributed, continue to be a point of contention between the conquered Continentals and the conquering Saypuris. In fact, it may be the only remaining point of contention between the two cultures, and one that continues to cause issues hundreds of years after the first death of the gods. While elements of Shara’s world will be resoundingly well-known to readers, the theology of the gods as well as the politics behind the new world order changes the dynamics of the familiar to make them decisively foreign and fantastic.
Within his story about gods versus humans, religious worship and its place within a government, and conquerors versus the conquered, Jackson provides much food for thought for readers. The Saypuris’ treatment of the old ways and the ongoing Continental resentment is a great example of the delicacy needed by the victors of any war if one hopes to remain at peace. The questions Shara raises about the origins of the gods and their influence on shaping the world are stunning in their astuteness, while religion and politics is always a controversial topic and well worth debating. It may be a fictional world, but there are life lessons one can easily extrapolate for today’s society.
The writing within City of Stairs is outstanding. Every word and phrase serves a distinct purpose. There is an innate crispness to the narrative that keeps the story from wandering down extraneous avenues. Mr. Jackson balances the world-building with his main aim of telling a story, so that the numerous descriptions of this unfamiliar world never detract from the plot or divert a reader’s attention away from the increasing tension. His characters are alive, well-developed, and achingly human, while his descriptions are breathtakingly beautiful in their clarity and achievement. Bulikov is a strange city with unusual customs and a different culture, but Mr. Jackson makes everything crystal clear.
Robert Bennett Jackson may be new to the fantasy genre, but one would never know it. His secondary world is easily recognizable for its similarities to the real world, but it is in his use of magic and gods and the architecture within his secondary world where the story really shines. Not only does he provide readers with an intense, magical whodunit, but he also brilliantly explores the origins of theology and belief systems. Exciting, extremely well-written, and thought-provoking, City of Stairs is a perfect example of high fantasy and in general an amazing novel.
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circumvents this issue by creating a world that is eerily similar to reality but remains firmly rooted in fiction. Names, places, customs, food – they all have their essential origins in modern-day cultures. Shara drinks tea and makes curry. Many of the cities on the Continent end in “-stan.” The barbarian Dreylings, with their fair hair, blue eyes, and seafaring ways, are spitting images of Nordic Vikings. The familiar elements of Jackson’s world are so recognizable as to confuse readers as to whether this is a secondary world fantasy or a world-within-a-world.However, it does not take long for readers to understand that Jackson’s world may look familiar but is anything but that. For, in City of Stairs, magic, also known as miracles, and the gods to whom each miracle can be attributed, continue to be a point of contention between the conquered Continentals and the conquering Saypuris. In fact, it may be the only remaining point of contention between the two cultures, and one that continues to cause issues hundreds of years after the first death of the gods. While elements of Shara’s world will be resoundingly well-known to readers, the theology of the gods as well as the politics behind the new world order changes the dynamics of the familiar to make them decisively foreign and fantastic.
Within his story about gods versus humans, religious worship and its place within a government, and conquerors versus the conquered, Jackson provides much food for thought for readers. The Saypuris’ treatment of the old ways and the ongoing Continental resentment is a great example of the delicacy needed by the victors of any war if one hopes to remain at peace. The questions Shara raises about the origins of the gods and their influence on shaping the world are stunning in their astuteness, while religion and politics is always a controversial topic and well worth debating. It may be a fictional world, but there are life lessons one can easily extrapolate for today’s society.
The writing within City of Stairs is outstanding. Every word and phrase serves a distinct purpose. There is an innate crispness to the narrative that keeps the story from wandering down extraneous avenues. Mr. Jackson balances the world-building with his main aim of telling a story, so that the numerous descriptions of this unfamiliar world never detract from the plot or divert a reader’s attention away from the increasing tension. His characters are alive, well-developed, and achingly human, while his descriptions are breathtakingly beautiful in their clarity and achievement. Bulikov is a strange city with unusual customs and a different culture, but Mr. Jackson makes everything crystal clear.
Robert Bennett Jackson may be new to the fantasy genre, but one would never know it. His secondary world is easily recognizable for its similarities to the real world, but it is in his use of magic and gods and the architecture within his secondary world where the story really shines. Not only does he provide readers with an intense, magical whodunit, but he also brilliantly explores the origins of theology and belief systems. Exciting, extremely well-written, and thought-provoking, City of Stairs is a perfect example of high fantasy and in general an amazing novel.
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Awards
Locus Award (Finalist — Fantasy Novel — 2015)
World Fantasy Award (Nominee — Novel — 2015)
British Fantasy Award (Nominee — Robert Holdstock Award — 2015)
Gaylactic Spectrum Award (Nominee — Novel — 2014/2015)
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2014-09-09
Physical description
464 p.; 5.18 inches
ISBN
9780804137171