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.

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.

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

- Gideon the Ninth is notable for its unique blend of genres, combining elements of science fiction, fantasy, and horror with a distinctive gothic atmosphere.
- Tamsyn Muir, the author of Gideon the Ninth, was nominated for a Nebula Award for Best Novel in 2019, reflecting the book's significant impact in the speculative fiction community.
- The book is the first in Tamsyn Muir's "The Locked Tomb" series and has received praise for its intricate world-building and complex characters.

**Gideon Nav**  
Gideon is an 18-year-old swordswoman and indentured servant to the Ninth House, known for her irreverent humor. Raised in isolation, she knows little about the world outside the Ninth.

**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 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 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 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 is a Lyctor from the Seventh House, thousands of years old, who expresses a tormented and complex relationship with the Empire's ruling structures.

Tamsyn Muir

Adult

Novel

The Locked Tomb

Fiction

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Study Guide

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Explore Gideon the Ninth, where necromancers and secrets collide in a deadly test of skill. Read a detailed summary and thematic analysis here.

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Act 1

Act 1, Chapters 1-8

Gideon the Ninth Act 1, Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Act 2, Chapters 9-16

Gideon the Ninth Act 2, Chapters 9-16 Summary & Analysis

Act 3, Chapters 17-25

Gideon the Ninth Act 3, Chapters 17-25 Summary & Analysis

Act 4

Act 4, Chapters 26-36

Gideon the Ninth Act 4, Chapters 26-36 Summary & Analysis

Act 5

Act 5, Chapter 37-Epilogue

Gideon the Ninth Act 5, Chapter 37-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Gideon the Ninth Character Analysis

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Themes

Gideon the Ninth Themes

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Gideon the Ninth Literary Devices

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Important Quotes

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Gideon the Ninth

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