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.

Tamsyn Muir

Adult

Novel

The Locked Tomb

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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content

Overview

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

Gideon the Ninth Summary and Study Guide

Background

Get ready to explore Gideon the Ninth and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Gideon the Ninth Background

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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

character

Character Analysis

Gideon the Ninth Character Analysis

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Themes

Gideon the Ninth Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Gideon the Ninth Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

Gideon the Ninth Literary Devices

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Important Quotes

Gideon the Ninth Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Gideon the Ninth Essay Topics

Gideon the Ninth

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Gideon the Ninth?

Reading Age

Book Details