A review by nclcaitlin
The Gutter Prayer by Gareth Ryder-Hanrahan

3.5

Cari, Rat, and Spar - a nomad girl, a ghoul, and a Stone Boy -three thieves pulled into a centuries old magical war between ancient beings, mages, and humanity.

Sadly, it is not the start of a joke and will probably end in the destruction of the city of Guerdon. A refuge from the war that rages beyond its borders.

The worldbuilding is definitely the highlight and strength of this book. The utter uniqueness of this steampunk world which creates an expansive and immersive city. 

Sometimes, I do feel that this overshadowed the plot as the worldbuilding overwhelms the story, the plot seeming to be driven by this element. 

I really liked the idea of saints and gods acting through vessels. It reminded me of T Kingfisher’s Saints of Steel series. 

The city was ready for change. The old order was starting to melt away, and we swam in the meltwater.

I think you could read this as a standalone without continuing with books two and three and still feel extremely satisfied with how it is wrapped up.