Book Summary
“Gideon the Ninth” is an enthralling mix of science fiction, fantasy, and gothic horror. It’s set in a universe of nine planets, each ruled by a House loyal to the immortal Emperor. The story follows Gideon Nav, an indentured servant and skilled swordswoman from the Ninth House, known for its necromancers and isolated existence. Gideon has spent her life trying to escape the Ninth House, only to be thwarted time and again by Harrowhark Nonagesimus, the Reverend Daughter of the Ninth House and her childhood nemesis. When Harrowhark is invited by the Emperor to compete in a deadly trial that could grant her immortality and make her a Lyctor, she forces Gideon to accompany her as her swordswoman. As the participants from the other Houses arrive, they find themselves in a decrepit, haunted palace filled with secrets and deadly traps. As members start dying under mysterious circumstances, Gideon and Harrowhark must unravel the palace’s secrets while keeping their own hidden. The novel combines a murder mystery with swordplay, necromancy, and a lot of bones, providing an engrossing reading experience.
Author Intro
Tamsyn Muir
Tamsyn Muir is a rising star in the world of speculative fiction. Born in New Zealand, Muir has been a lifelong writer and reader, drawn particularly to the realms of horror, science fiction, and fantasy. She’s a graduate of Clarion West 2010, a six-week workshop for writers preparing for professional careers in science fiction and fantasy. Her writing is known for its unique blend of genres, weaving together elements of horror, mystery, and dark humor. Her debut novel, “Gideon the Ninth,” is the first installment in a trilogy that has earned her international acclaim and solidified her place in the modern speculative fiction landscape.
Book Reviews
“Gideon the Ninth” is an epic, wildly imaginative novel that pulls together disparate genres to create a truly unique world. Tamsyn Muir’s genius shines through in the intricate, hauntingly beautiful universe she crafts, filled with necromancy, sword-fights, and biting humor. Gideon Nav, with her foul mouth and incredible strength, is an unforgettable protagonist, and her complicated relationship with Harrowhark adds a rich depth to the narrative. The unraveling of the mystery is paced just right, keeping the reader engaged till the end. It’s a riveting, bone-chilling, and darkly funny read that leaves one eagerly awaiting the next installment.
Tamsyn Muir’s “Gideon the Ninth” is a masterstroke of genre-blending, melding fantasy, science fiction, and horror into an exciting, pulse-pounding narrative. The story is dark, thrilling, and laced with a humor that complements the grim circumstances. Gideon Nav, in all her brashness, wit, and vulnerability, anchors the narrative, providing a counterpoint to the high stakes and dark magic. Muir’s world-building is meticulously detailed, and her ability to evoke both terror and humor in equal measures is remarkable. “Gideon the Ninth” is an intense, immersive, and entertaining read that promises even greater things to come in the rest of the trilogy.
In “Gideon the Ninth,” Muir presents an intriguing mix of elements from different genres to craft a distinct, darkly humorous, and captivating narrative. The protagonist, Gideon Nav, is a breath of fresh air with her sass, strength, and resilience, and her complicated relationship with Harrowhark adds emotional depth to the story. The narrative is intricately plotted, the world-buildingis impeccable, and the mystery at the heart of the story is engrossing. The characters are uniquely crafted, their interactions are engaging, and the dialogue is sharp and witty. While the narrative is dark and intense, it is interspersed with moments of humor and poignant introspection. “Gideon the Ninth” is a unique, memorable, and riveting novel that establishes Muir as a talented new voice in speculative fiction.
“Gideon the Ninth” is a dazzlingly inventive debut novel by Tamsyn Muir. It’s an impressive mix of genres, blending science fiction, fantasy, horror, and murder mystery into a uniquely captivating narrative. Gideon Nav is a standout protagonist—fierce, stubborn, and sarcastic, her voice gives the novel its distinctive tone. Her contentious relationship with Harrowhark adds another layer of intrigue to the story. The novel is gripping from start to finish, with an engaging mystery, a richly developed universe, and compelling, complex characters. Muir’s writing is sharp and evocative, effortlessly balancing the dark, the humorous, and the dramatic. “Gideon the Ninth” is a thrilling and mesmerizing read that is hard to put down.
