56 pages • 1 hour read
Tamsyn MuirGideon the Ninth
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
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.
Reviews & Readership
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.