Tamsyn Muir’s Gideon the Ninth is the first installment in the Locked Tomb Trilogy, blending necromancy, swordplay, and lesbian representation in a gripping space opera.
1.1 Overview of the Book
Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir introduces Gideon Nav, a reluctant swordswoman, and Harrowhark, the Ninth Necromancer, navigating undead trials and political intrigue. Set in a solar system ruled by the Emperor, the book combines necromancy, swordplay, and lesbian representation with sacrilegious humor, exploring identity and self-discovery in a unique science fantasy setting, blending Dune, Riddick, and Gormenghast influences.
1.2 The Locked Tomb Trilogy
The Locked Tomb Trilogy, beginning with Gideon the Ninth, is a groundbreaking science fantasy series by Tamsyn Muir. It follows Gideon Nav and Harrowhark Nonagesimus through a universe of necromancy, swordplay, and political intrigue, blending humor with dark, sacrilegious themes. The trilogy includes Gideon the Ninth, Harrow the Ninth, and Alecto the Ninth, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards.
1.3 Tamsyn Muir’s Unique Writing Style
Tamsyn Muir’s writing in Gideon the Ninth is a masterful blend of necromancy, swordplay, and dark humor. Her prose is deft, tense, and atmospheric, bringing characters to life with vivid precision. The novel’s unique voice and sacrilegious tone captivate readers, creating a heart-pounding epic that seamlessly merges science fantasy with intimate character dynamics.
Plot and Characters
Gideon the Ninth follows Gideon Nav, a reluctant swordswoman, and Harrowhark Nonagesimus, the Ninth Necromancer, as they navigate undead trials, political intrigue, and a complex web of loyalty and betrayal.
2.1 Gideon Nav: The Reluctant Swordswoman
Gideon Nav is a fiercely independent and skilled swordswoman raised by the Ninth House’s stringent nuns. She aspires to escape her indentured servitude and the world of necromancy, seeking freedom and adventure beyond the confines of her oppressive upbringing. Her journey is marked by her reluctance to conform to the expectations of her role, driving her to challenge tradition and authority in pursuit of her own destiny. Gideon’s character arc is a compelling exploration of identity, resilience, and the struggle for self-determination in a rigidly controlled society.
2.2 Harrowhark Nonagesimus: The Ninth Necromancer
Harrowhark Nonagesimus, the Ninth Necromancer, is a complex and enigmatic figure, wielding immense power as a bone witch. Her relationship with Gideon is fraught with tension, combining loyalty and resentment. As the Reverend Daughter of the Ninth House, Harrowhark embodies both brilliance and ruthlessness, driving the plot with her dark ambitions and unwavering dedication to her necromantic craft.
2.3 The Solar System of Swordplay and Politics
The story unfolds in a vast solar system where swordplay and political intrigue reign supreme. Gideon and Harrow navigate a complex web of alliances and rivalries, with necromancers vying for power under the Emperor’s watchful eye. This setting blends action, strategy, and dark humor, creating a gripping narrative that explores the intersection of personal ambition and systemic control.
The World of “Gideon the Ninth”
Gideon the Ninth is set in a sprawling solar system ruled by the Emperor, where necromancers wield immense power. The Ninth House, with its stern nuns and skeletal guardians, serves as a stark backdrop for Gideon’s journey, blending science fantasy with dark, atmospheric elements.
3.1 The Ninth House and Its Significance
The Ninth House, ruled by Harrowhark, is a place of ancient traditions and dark magic. Its stern nuns and skeletal retainers create a cold, unforgiving environment that shapes Gideon’s identity. The house’s rigid structure and centuries-old practices highlight its importance in the necromantic hierarchy, making it a pivotal setting for the story’s events and character development.
3.2 Necromancy and the Role of the Emperor
Necromancy is central to the Emperor’s power, with each noble house competing to prove their mastery. The Ninth House, led by Harrow, seeks to reclaim its prominence through necromantic prowess. The Emperor’s need for powerful necromancers drives the plot, as Gideon and Harrow navigate this dangerous world of magic and political intrigue, where the Emperor’s favor is both a goal and a gamble.
Themes and Style
Identity, self-discovery, and lesbian representation are central themes, intertwined with a wicked sense of humor and sacrilegious undertones, creating a unique blend of darkness and wit in Muir’s narrative style.
4.1 Identity and Self-Discovery
Gideon’s journey explores her struggle with identity, rejecting her mundane life as a swordswoman for the Ninth House. Her self-discovery intertwines with Harrow’s complex past, revealing how both characters navigate their roles, desires, and destinies in a universe of necromancy and politics. This theme is central to the novel’s emotional depth and character development.
4.2 Lesbian Representation in Science Fantasy
Gideon the Ninth offers groundbreaking lesbian representation in science fantasy. Gideon Nav and Harrowhark Nonagesimus’s complex, intimate relationship is portrayed with authenticity and depth, challenging traditional genre norms. Their dynamic, marked by fierce loyalty and unspoken feelings, resonates deeply with readers seeking diverse, meaningful LGBTQ+ narratives in speculative fiction.
4.3 Humor and Sacrilegious Undertones
Tamsyn Muir infuses Gideon the Ninth with wicked humor and sacrilegious undertones, creating a darkly comedic narrative. The novel balances gothic necromancy with irreverent wit, as Gideon’s sharp tongue and rebellious spirit clash hilariously with the grim, sacred traditions of the Ninth House, making the story both irreverent and refreshingly original.
Availability of “Gideon the Ninth” in PDF
Gideon the Ninth is widely available in PDF format for download through various platforms, including Google Play Books, Open Library, and direct eBook retailers, both free and paid.
5.1 Downloading the PDF Version
The PDF version of Gideon the Ninth is easily accessible through platforms like Google Play Books, Open Library, and direct eBook retailers. Readers can download it for free or purchase it, depending on the platform. The DRM-free version ensures compatibility with any PDF reader, making it convenient for offline reading on various devices.
5.2 Platforms for Free and Paid Downloads
Gideon the Ninth is available on platforms like Google Play Books, Open Library, and eBook retailers. Free PDF downloads can be found on Open Library and select forums, while paid versions are offered on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books. Ensure legality by purchasing from authorized sellers to support the author and publisher.
5.3 Legal Considerations for Digital Rights Management
Downloading Gideon the Ninth as a PDF requires adherence to copyright laws. The publisher has removed DRM, allowing DRM-free downloads, but unauthorized sharing or downloading from pirated sites is illegal. Always purchase or download from authorized platforms to support the author and publisher, ensuring compliance with digital rights management laws.
Reception and Awards
Gideon the Ninth won the 2020 Locus Award and was a finalist for the Hugo, Nebula, and Crawford Awards. It became a bestseller, praised by NPR, Amazon, and critics for its originality and compelling narrative, solidifying its place in modern science fantasy literature.
6.1 Critical Acclaim and Bestseller Status
Gideon the Ninth achieved widespread critical acclaim, topping The New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists. NPR, Amazon, and BookPage named it one of 2019’s best books, praising its unique blend of necromancy, space opera, and dark humor. Critics lauded its bold narrative, complex characters, and fresh take on science fantasy, making it a modern classic.
6.2 Nominations and Wins: Hugo, Nebula, and Locus Awards
Gideon the Ninth won the 2020 Locus Award and was a finalist for the Hugo, Nebula, and Crawford Awards. Its innovative storytelling and characters earned widespread recognition, solidifying its place in modern science fantasy. The Locked Tomb Trilogy also became a Hugo Award finalist for Best Series in 2023, further cementing its legacy.
The Locked Tomb Series
The Locked Tomb Trilogy includes Gideon the Ninth, Harrow the Ninth, and Alecto the Ninth, offering a captivating blend of necromancy, swordplay, and lesbian necromancers in a vast solar system.
7.1 Book 1: “Gideon the Ninth”
Gideon the Ninth introduces Gideon Nav, a reluctant swordswoman, and Harrowhark, the Ninth Necromancer, in a universe where the Emperor seeks powerful necromancers. The story unfolds with undead trials, political intrigue, and a unique blend of humor and sacrilege, setting the stage for the rest of the trilogy.
7.2 Book 2: “Harrow the Ninth”
Harrow the Ninth delves into the aftermath of the first book, focusing on Harrow’s journey as she grapples with her newfound powers and fractured identity. The narrative weaves through time and space, exploring themes of grief, power, and redemption, while maintaining Muir’s signature dark humor and intricate world-building.
7.3 Book 3: “Alecto the Ninth”
Alecto the Ninth concludes the Locked Tomb Trilogy, intensifying the stakes as Gideon and Harrow confront the culmination of their struggles. This final installment masterfully ties together the series’ complex threads, delivering a poignant and explosive resolution that underscores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the enduring bond between the two protagonists.
Author’s Background
Tamsyn Muir, a New Zealand author, rose to fame with Gideon the Ninth. Her short fiction earned Nebula and Shirley Jackson nominations, solidifying her in science fantasy.
8.1 Tamsyn Muir’s Career and Other Works
Tamsyn Muir’s career skyrocketed with Gideon the Ninth, the first in the Locked Tomb Trilogy. Her short stories have been nominated for prestigious awards like the Nebula and Shirley Jackson. Known for her unique voice, Muir blends horror and humor, captivating readers with her imaginative storytelling and complex characters across multiple genres.
8.2 Her Influence on Modern Science Fantasy
Tamsyn Muir’s Gideon the Ninth has redefined modern science fantasy, blending necromancy with space opera. Her unique voice and LGBTQ+ representation have inspired a new wave of authors, challenging genre boundaries. The Locked Tomb Trilogy has become a cultural phenomenon, influencing both readers and writers, and expanding the scope of speculative fiction with its bold creativity and originality.
Fan Engagement and Community
Fans of Gideon the Ninth have created vibrant communities online, sharing fan art, cosplay, and discussions. The book’s unique style and characters inspire creative engagement and enthusiasm worldwide.
9.1 Fan Art and Cosplay Inspired by the Book
Gideon the Ninth has inspired a wave of fan art and cosplay, with enthusiasts bringing characters like Gideon and Harrow to life through intricate designs and creative interpretations. The book’s unique blend of necromancy, swordplay, and queer themes has captivated artists, leading to a vibrant online showcase of digital art, fan comics, and cosplay renditions shared across social media and forums.
9.2 Online Discussions and Forums
Online forums and social media platforms like Reddit and Twitter are filled with lively discussions about Gideon the Ninth. Fans debate the intricacies of necromancy, swordplay, and the book’s genre-blending style. The LGBTQ+ community particularly praises the novel’s lesbian representation, while readers theorize about the Locked Tomb Trilogy’s deeper mysteries and character dynamics, fostering a vibrant, engaged fanbase.
Reading Formats and Editions
10.1 Hardcover, Paperback, and Digital Versions
Gideon the Ninth is available in hardcover, paperback, and digital formats, including PDF, EPUB, and MOBI. The DRM-free eBook versions are accessible across various platforms, ensuring wide readability.
Gideon the Ninth is available in hardcover, paperback, and digital formats, including PDF, EPUB, and MOBI. The DRM-free eBook versions are accessible across various platforms, ensuring wide readability. Fans can also enjoy the audiobook version, narrated by talented voice actors, bringing the story to life in an immersive experience.
10.2 Audiobook Availability
The audiobook of Gideon the Ninth offers an engaging narration, bringing the story’s vibrant characters and intricate world to life. Available on popular platforms like Audible and Google Play Books, it allows listeners to immerse themselves in the tale of Gideon and Harrow while on the go, enhancing the reading experience with compelling storytelling.
Gideon the Ninth is a captivating blend of necromancy, swordplay, and lesbian representation, marking the start of the Locked Tomb Trilogy. A must-read for sci-fi and fantasy enthusiasts, it offers a unique, unforgettable journey through a richly crafted universe.
11.1 Final Thoughts on “Gideon the Ninth”
Gideon the Ninth is a groundbreaking blend of necromancy, swordplay, and lesbian representation, set in a richly imagined universe. With its unique characters, dark humor, and emotional depth, it captivates readers, leaving a lasting impression. A must-read for fans of science fantasy, it sets the stage for the rest of the Locked Tomb Trilogy.
11.2 Recommendations for Further Reading
After Gideon the Ninth, explore Harrow the Ninth and Alecto the Ninth to complete the Locked Tomb Trilogy. For similar themes, try The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin or The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers. These works offer diverse characters and immersive worlds, perfect for fans of science fantasy and LGBTQ+ representation.