Gideon the Ninth is a sci-fi-horror-fantasy-romance mashup that defies categorisation. Written by Tamsyn Muir, this novel is a captivating and unique read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
The story follows Gideon Nav, a young woman who has been raised by nuns and skeletons in an ancient castle. She dreams of escaping her life of servitude and becoming a swordswoman. When she is offered the chance to become a cavalier, she jumps at the opportunity.
Gideon’s new role requires her to serve as the bodyguard for Harrowhark Nonagesimus, the powerful necromancer who rules over their world. Harrowhark is one of eight necromancers who have been summoned to compete for an ultimate prize: godhood. The competition takes place on an isolated planet where they must solve puzzles and fight off enemies to prove their worthiness.
As Gideon and Harrowhark work together to survive, they begin to uncover secrets about each other that threaten to tear them apart. The novel is filled with twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end.
One of the most impressive aspects of Gideon the Ninth is its world-building. Muir has created a richly detailed universe filled with magic, technology, and complex political systems. The characters are equally well-developed, with distinct personalities and motivations that make them feel like real people.
The writing style is also noteworthy. Muir’s prose is sharp and witty, with plenty of snarky humour that keeps things light even in moments of darkness. The dialogue between characters crackles with energy, making it easy to get lost in their conversations.
Overall, Gideon the Ninth is an excellent debut novel from Tamsyn Muir. It’s a thrilling adventure full of magic, mystery, and romance that will appeal to fans of science fiction and fantasy alike.