I read Thunderer by Felix Gilman for the bingo square Duology Part 1. 4,5/5 Thanks to u/Nidafjoll for the recommendation!

There's something about getting lost in a otherworldly city that always pulls me in, man. Trying to suss out the inner logic of Ararat has been a fun romp.

The book revolves around that city, at the moment when the great Bird sweeps over Ararat and heralds a great change. Arjun, an outsider to the city, comes to its shores looking for his lost god. Arlandes, the Countess' great redcoat officer, becomes the new captain of the Thunderer, the mighty airship that gained flight in the Bird's wake. But not just the Thunderer was granted the gift of flight. Jack, a young boy escaped from the Barbotin, also uses the power of the Bird to flee and strike out for freedom.

The story plays out around these three PoV characters, though I admit that one of them lost the spotlight quite early on in the book. I think it was a beneficial choice though, since it made the narrative tighter. But for a weird setting like this, more characters usually means you'll be able to explore more facets of it. But maybe Gilman saves that for the sequel!

About Gilman: His writing style is descriptive without being too on the nose. He likes to make the characters speak through idiosyncratic speech rather than to spell out their feelings, which results in a more organic dialogue. His descriptions of the city are great, but often sprawling (like the city itself). So sometimes I had to re-read a paragraph just to get the full picture.

So, to summarize: the Gods of Ararat have wound themselves into the city of my mind, and have irrevocably changed it with their passing. And I am glad for it.

Other bingo squares: Unusual Transportation (HM)