56 pages • 1 hour read
Gideon the Ninth
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Book Brief
444
Novel • Fiction
2019
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir follows the story of 18-year-old swordswoman Gideon Nav, who is enslaved by the Ninth House. Desperate to escape but failing, she agrees to accompany necromancer Harrowhark Nonagesimus to the First House's Canaan House to compete in deadly trials to become a Lyctor for the Emperor. They face fierce rivals, uncover dark secrets, and confront personal demons in a blend of necromancy, space opera, and gothic horror. The book contains graphic violence, death, self-harm, suicide, and abuse.
Mysterious
Dark
Gritty
Humorous
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
164,786 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir is lauded for its unique blend of science fiction, fantasy, and gothic elements, featuring strong, witty characters and a fresh narrative voice. Critics praise its dark humor and intricate world-building. However, some find the plot complex and the pacing uneven. Overall, it’s a bold, captivating read with minor flaws.
Who Should Read Gideon the Ninth?
Fans of dark, witty, and complex sci-fi fantasy such as The Locked Tomb by Leigh Bardugo and The Broken Earth trilogy by N.K. Jemisin will relish Gideon the Ninth for its unique blend of necromancy, intricate world-building, and a fierce, snarky protagonist. Ideal for readers who appreciate intricate plots and morally grey characters.
164,786 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Harrowhark Nonagesimus
Harrowhark Nonagesimus
Harrow is the 17-year-old Reverend Daughter and ruler of the Ninth House, a highly skilled necromancer carrying the responsibilities and burdens of her family's legacy.
Palamedes Sextus
Palamedes Sextus
Palamedes is the 20-year-old Master Warden of the Sixth House, admired for his intellect and rational approach to problems. He is one of the few necromancers who earns Harrow's respect.
Ianthe Tridentarius
Ianthe Tridentarius
Ianthe is the second-in-line for the Third House and a clever necromancer who uses her position to gather information, aided by her sister Coronabeth, who presents a radiant public facade.
Coronabeth Tridentarius
Coronabeth Tridentarius
Coronabeth is the beautiful and charismatic Crown Princess of the Third House, closely allied with her sister Ianthe, with whom she navigates political intrigue.
Cytherea the First
Cytherea the First
Cytherea is a Lyctor from the Seventh House, thousands of years old, who expresses a tormented and complex relationship with the Empire's ruling structures.
444
Novel • Fiction
2019
Adult
18+ years
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