A review by orionmerlin
Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Characters: 10/10
Gideon Nav is one of the most memorable protagonists I’ve encountered, with her sharp wit and irreverence leaving a strong impression. Harrowhark Nonagesimus is equally compelling, layered with complexity and depth. The secondary characters were highly distinguishable and brought significant value to the story, each adding tension, nuance, or humor. While the large cast initially felt overwhelming, their distinct personalities and interactions solidified their importance. I was fully invested in what happened to the characters and found their dynamics unforgettable.
Atmosphere/Setting: 10/10
The setting is mesmerizing, drawing me into a gothic, eerie world filled with decayed necromantic houses and haunting labyrinths. The atmosphere was so immersive that I could vividly picture the environments and feel the tension of the scenes. The energy in both the action sequences and quieter moments was palpable, and I was completely convinced by the world Tamsyn Muir crafted. The combination of grim, unsettling tones with flashes of absurdity created a unique and unforgettable environment.
Writing Style: 10/10
Tamsyn Muir’s writing style captivated me with its sharp, witty prose and seamless blending of humor and gravity. I found the dialogue authentic and often laugh-out-loud funny, while the descriptive passages struck a balance between poetic and cutting. The stylized nature of the writing demanded my full attention, and though it required focus, it was deeply rewarding. The prose flowed beautifully and effortlessly, leaving me eager to read more of her work, regardless of the genre.
Plot: 9/10
The central mystery, combined with the competition and necromantic intrigue, kept me hooked. The twists and revelations were satisfying, and the plot built toward an emotional and climactic conclusion. I felt the middle section could have moved at a slightly faster pace, as the unraveling of secrets slowed the momentum. However, the complexity and intricacies of the plot made it stand out, and the payoff in the final chapters was worth every moment.
Intrigue: 10/10
I was completely engrossed in this book and often found myself choosing to read it over doing anything else. The layered mysteries and the fraught relationship between Gideon and Harrow maintained my interest throughout. Their dynamic was particularly engaging, creating a tension that kept me eager to see how their story evolved. The story’s intrigue held my attention from beginning to end, and I never found myself wavering in my investment.
Logic/Relationships: 9/10
The characters’ motives and actions felt authentic and consistent, and their relationships, especially between Gideon and Harrow, were emotionally charged and believable. The necromantic magic system fascinated me, and its rules were largely consistent. I felt that some aspects of the worldbuilding remained a little too vague, leaving a few unanswered questions. However, this ambiguity felt purposeful and added to the overall mystique, fitting the tone of the story and leaving me eager for the next installment.
Enjoyment: 10/10
I absolutely loved this book, from its unique tone to its emotional resonance. The mix of sci-fi, fantasy, gothic horror, and humor created a fresh and exciting experience. My enjoyment was consistent throughout, even during slower moments, and I was left eager to continue with the series. This story has lingered with me long after finishing, and I’m excited to revisit it in the future.