Full Fathom Five

Full Fathom Five - Max Gladstone

Kai is a builder of gods. When one of the gods is dying, she tries to save her and finds herself moved to an easier job. But, why did this god die? She is determined to find out. Izzy is a homeless kid trying to survive on the streets. She is part of a cult who worships a goddess - the same goddess that has just died. While trying to avoid the Penitents (big stone policemen that I picture as moving Easter Island statues with prisoners locked inside them), she tries to solve the mystery of her goddess' disappearance. Izzy and Kai eventually meet and solve the mystery together.

Gladstone has built an interesting world. Instead of money, people trade in souls. The gods do not act as typical deities demanding worship and sacrifice, but more like corporations demanding soulstuff as payment for their commodity. This is a worthwhile read for those who like fantasy and even though it's the third book in the series, can be read as a standalone novel.