"City of Stairs" is a fantasy novel by Robert Jackson Bennett, set in the fictional city of Bulikov. The story follows Shara Thivani, a diplomat investigating the murder of a prominent historian, which leads her to uncover secrets about the city's past and its once-powerful gods. The novel explores themes of power, memory, and the impact of history on society. In Bulikov, the remnants of divine beings and their influence are evident, as the city grapples with the consequences of their past. The narrative combines mystery, political intrigue, and elements of magic.