Is Gideon the Ninth a Series
Gideon the Ninth is a book that has captured the attention of readers across genres. With its blend of science fiction, fantasy, necromancy, and dark humor, it has sparked discussions far beyond the typical fantasy readership. Many people ask whether Gideon the Ninth is just a standalone novel or if it belongs to a larger series. The answer to that question opens up a fascinating world known as The Locked Tomb. To understand the full scope of the story, its characters, and its universe, it’s important to explore how the book fits into the series and what readers can expect if they continue past the first volume.
The Locked Tomb Series Overview
Is Gideon the Ninth a Series?
Yes, Gideon the Ninth is not a standalone book it is the first installment in an ongoing science fantasy series called The Locked Tomb, written by Tamsyn Muir. The series is known for its innovative genre-blending, combining space opera elements with gothic horror, necromancy, murder mystery, and sharp, irreverent dialogue. The books follow interconnected storylines involving necromancers and their sword-wielding cavaliers in a decaying, empire-like universe ruled by an immortal Emperor.
Books in the Series
As of now, the main entries in The Locked Tomb series include:
- Gideon the Ninth(2019) The first book, introducing the Ninth House necromancer Harrowhark and her cavalier Gideon Nav.
- Harrow the Ninth(2020) The sequel, focusing on Harrow as she trains to become a Lyctor and confronts the strange consequences of the events in the first book.
- Nona the Ninth(2022) The third book, shifting perspectives to a mysterious girl named Nona while expanding the universe further.
- Alecto the Ninth(forthcoming) The planned final book of the series, expected to resolve lingering questions and close the epic story arc.
About Gideon the Ninth
The Premise
The story of Gideon the Ninth follows Gideon Nav, an orphan raised in the gloomy and oppressive Ninth House, which is dedicated to necromancy and death. Her lifelong goal is to escape her life of servitude and join the military forces known as the Cohort. However, her plans are interrupted when Harrowhark Nonagesimus, the Reverend Daughter of the Ninth House and a powerful necromancer, forces her into a reluctant alliance.
Together, they are sent to participate in a trial at the First House, where necromancer-cavalier pairs from the other eight Houses compete for the opportunity to ascend to Lyctorhood immortal servants of the Emperor. The setting is part haunted mansion, part puzzle chamber, and the story unfolds as a locked-room murder mystery full of secrets, betrayal, and magical duels.
Genres and Themes
Gideon the Ninth defies easy classification. It blends elements of:
- Science fiction with space travel, futuristic technology, and interplanetary politics.
- Fantasy including necromancy, magical duels, and mythological overtones.
- Horror through gothic imagery, skeletal constructs, and unsettling mysteries.
- Dark comedy thanks to Gideon’s sarcastic voice and irreverent tone.
This genre-blending style is carried through the entire series, which is part of what makes The Locked Tomb such a standout in modern speculative fiction.
Continuing the Story
Harrow the Ninth
The second book in the series, Harrow the Ninth, shifts perspective from Gideon to Harrowhark. It is more experimental in structure, with nonlinear timelines, unreliable narration, and deeper insight into the magic system and metaphysical rules of the universe. Readers looking for straightforward storytelling might find it challenging, but for fans of complex narratives, it offers rich rewards and crucial answers to the questions raised in the first book.
Nona the Ninth
Nona the Ninth introduces an entirely new character Nona and explores themes of identity, memory, and rebirth. While it may seem disconnected at first, it gradually ties back into the broader narrative. The book expands the scope of the series, diving into the effects of necromantic warfare on ordinary people and how ancient secrets affect the present day. It’s both a character-driven story and a key puzzle piece in the overarching plot.
Alecto the Ninth
The fourth and final book, Alecto the Ninth, is highly anticipated. It is expected to conclude the series and resolve the mysteries introduced throughout the first three volumes. The title itself hints at revelations about a character who has remained largely unseen but central to the mythos of the Locked Tomb universe. Fans speculate it will tie together timelines, character arcs, and metaphysical questions in a dramatic and emotionally satisfying conclusion.
Why Is Gideon the Ninth So Popular?
Unique Voice and Humor
One of the reasons Gideon the Ninth and its sequels have gained a strong following is the voice of the protagonist. Gideon’s humor, modern slang, and pop-culture-inflected sarcasm stand out sharply against the dark, ancient world she inhabits. This contrast creates a unique tone that blends tragic storytelling with laugh-out-loud commentary.
Diverse Characters and Representation
The series features a wide range of characters in terms of race, gender identity, and sexuality. LGBTQ+ relationships are central to the story, especially the complex bond between Gideon and Harrow. These elements are presented not as token representation, but as integral to character development and plot.
Fan Community and Cultural Impact
The Locked Tomb series has inspired a passionate fan base. Readers create fan art, fan fiction, and theories about the deeper meaning of the books’ symbols and plot twists. The series has become a major touchstone in discussions of modern speculative fiction, praised for its originality, emotional depth, and intellectual complexity.
Do You Need to Read All the Books?
Reading in Order
While Gideon the Ninth can technically be read on its own, many of its mysteries and questions are only fully answered in the sequels. To get the most from the series, it’s recommended to read the books in order. Each installment builds upon the previous one and re-contextualizes earlier events. The payoff in emotional resonance and plot clarity is worth the investment.
Skippable or Essential?
Some readers wonder if they can skip Nona the Ninth, as it introduces a new character and seems like a detour. However, Nona provides crucial information about the cosmology of the world, the history of the necrolords, and the political stakes leading into Alecto the Ninth. Skipping it would leave gaps in understanding, especially in terms of emotional context and narrative continuity.
Gideon the Ninth Begins a Dark and Brilliant Series
So, is Gideon the Ninth a series? Absolutely. It is the gateway into a richly layered, ambitious saga known as The Locked Tomb. With complex characters, a twisted plot, gothic aesthetics, and brilliant prose, it’s more than just one novel it’s the beginning of a universe that continues to surprise, challenge, and enchant readers. Whether you’re drawn to necromancers in space, witty dialogue, or deep philosophical questions, this series offers something unique. Starting with Gideon the Ninth is just the first step into an unforgettable journey.