This is the sequel to [b:City of Stairs|20174424|City of Stairs (The Divine Cities, #1)|Robert Jackson Bennett|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1394545220s/20174424.jpg|28030792] and I liked this one at least as much, maybe more.

I have a bunch of books out from the library that I should have read sooner because they are due back earlier. But I once I started this one, I just had to keep going.

Technically, this is fantasy, but the magical part is so real and consistent that it is practically science fiction.

I think what really hooked me were the compelling characters. The protagonist in City of Blades was a minor character in City of Stairs. A highly competent general with a traumatic past that she needs to redeem.

It looks like there will be a third volume, [b:City of Miracles|28784121|City of Miracles (The Divine Cities, #3)|Robert Jackson Bennett|https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/book/50x75-a91bf249278a81aabab721ef782c4a74.png|48992784] and I am looking forward to it. Even though there is not a hint of a talking cat or talking rodent.