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Harrow the Ninth

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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Tamsyn Muir

Harrow the Ninth

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

507

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

The Nine Houses • Futuristic Fantasy World

Topic
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Harrow the Ninth, Harrow Nonagesimus wrestles with false memories and an imperfect ascension to power while a Resurrection Beast hunts down the Emperor’s Lyctors. She contends with a conspiracy against the Emperor, an angry revenant linked to her fallen cavalier's sword, and the return of supposedly dead individuals. Harrow's fragile mental state and hidden truths jeopardize her mission to prevent consuming Gideon's soul. This novel contains depictions of gore, child abuse and neglect, and references to genocide and suicidal thoughts and actions.

Mysterious

Dark

Melancholic

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.4

82,693 ratings

84%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Harrow the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir has captivated readers with its intricate plot and dark humor. Praise highlights Muir's innovative world-building and complex characters, though some find the narrative structure confusing. Its ambitious, genre-blending approach has secured a committed fanbase despite occasional pacing issues.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Harrow the Ninth?

Readers who enjoyed Gideon the Ninth, Neil Gaiman’s blend of horror and fantasy, or the intricate world-building of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series will revel in Harrow the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir. It’s optimal for fans of dark science fantasy, gothic elements, and complex, unreliable narrators.

4.4

82,693 ratings

84%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Harrowhark Nonagesimus

The heir apparent to the Ninth House, Harrow is a master of bone magic who navigates complex political intrigue while grappling with her own mental health challenges.

A foundling from the Ninth House known for her martial prowess and irreverent humor, Gideon has a complicated relationship with Harrow.

Harrow's only ally and eccentric, baroque antagonist from the previous book, known for her complicated relationships and ambition.

A former leader of a rebel group, Wake is a powerful revenant with intricate motivations and personal connections to several key characters.

The divine leader of the Nine Houses, his affable, seemingly benevolent nature conceals deeper complexities and secrets.

An enigmatic presence that follows Harrow, linked to deep emotions and mysteries within the world of the story.

One of the original Lyctors, known for her medical prowess and sardonic demeanor, involved in clandestine schemes.

Another original Lyctor with a strong sense of duty and devotion, balancing his pursuit of goals with a strategic mindset.

The Saint of Duty and a fiercely loyal Lyctor, he plays a significant role with his unique skills and disputed loyalties.

Harrow’s original cavalier from the Ninth House, characterized by his poetic nature and contrasting qualities to Gideon Nav.

The Sixth House duo, noted for their intelligence and loyalty, play a key supporting role throughout the narrative.

A couple from the Fifth House who offer wisdom and guidance, acting as nurturing figures within pivotal events.

Military-oriented representatives of the Second House, known for their disciplined and strategic approaches.

Seventh House candidates, both embodying distinct qualities of friendliness, strength, and poetic inclination.

The regal and ostentatious representatives of the Third House, tied to themes of identity and loyalty within their complex roles.

Book Details
Pages

507

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

The Nine Houses • Futuristic Fantasy World

Topic
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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