books like gideon the ninth

3 min read 23-11-2024

Meta Description: Craving more necromancer adventures after Gideon the Ninth? This guide explores books like Gideon the Ninth, offering similar blends of humor, horror, found family, LGBTQ+ representation, and thrilling space opera elements. Discover your next obsession with recommendations that capture the unique magic of Tamsyn Muir's masterpiece. Dive into this curated list of similar reads and prepare for your next literary adventure!

Beyond the Ninth House: Exploring Similar Reads

Tamsyn Muir's Gideon the Ninth captivated readers with its unique blend of humor, horror, found family, and thrilling space opera elements. The story's LGBTQ+ representation and unforgettable characters only added to its appeal. But what to read after you've devoured the entire Locked Tomb trilogy? Fear not, fellow space necromancer enthusiast, for there are many books out there that scratch a similar itch.

Sharing the Dark Humor & Found Family Tropes:

Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree: While lacking the necromancy, this book shares the found family and heartwarming aspects of Gideon. Gideon's gruff exterior and unexpected softness? You'll find echoes of that in this charming fantasy about an orc who opens a coffee shop.
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon: Shannon's epic fantasy boasts a compelling ensemble cast, powerful women, and a touch of the fantastical that evokes the otherworldly elements of Muir’s universe. The high stakes, political intrigue, and strong female friendships resonate with Gideon's themes.

For the Fans of Lesbian Necromancers (and their Swords):

The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri: While not directly about necromancy, this fantasy novel features a compelling lesbian relationship at its heart and delves into themes of power, rebellion, and found family within a richly detailed world. The slow-burn romance and strong female characters will definitely appeal to fans of Gideon and Harrow's relationship.
The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi: This historical fantasy weaves together a captivating story of magic, mystery, and found family, with strong female characters and a complex relationship dynamic. Though lacking the necromantic element, the adventure, magic system, and ensemble cast will resonate with Gideon fans.

If You Crave the Grimdark Space Opera:

A Memory Called Empire by Arkady Martine: This space opera offers a sophisticated exploration of political intrigue, cultural exchange, and identity. The richly detailed world-building, complex characters, and thoughtful exploration of empire rival Gideon's depth and scope.
Children of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky: This science fiction novel takes a different approach to the space opera, focusing on the evolution of a spider species on a distant planet. Its intricate world-building, fascinating creatures, and captivating narrative will appeal to those who appreciate Muir's imaginative world-building. While lacking the humor, it shares the unique and compelling universe exploration.

Addressing the Horror Elements:

The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow: This portal fantasy novel blends elements of mystery and horror, offering a captivating exploration of worlds beyond our own. While not as explicitly gruesome as Gideon, it shares a similar sense of wonder and unease.

Books Featuring Unique Magic Systems and Intriguing Worlds:

The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang: This epic fantasy takes a darker, more brutal approach than Gideon, but shares similar themes of found family and intense battles. The magic system is unique and captivating, though quite different from necromancy.

Beyond the Ninth: Your Next Literary Adventure Awaits

While no book perfectly replicates the unique blend of elements in Gideon the Ninth, these recommendations offer similar themes, tones, and styles that will delight fans of Muir's masterpiece. Whether you crave more humor, horror, found family, LGBTQ+ representation, or simply a thrilling space opera, this list offers a starting point for your next literary adventure. So grab a book, buckle up, and prepare for another unforgettable journey. Remember to check out reviews and summaries to find the perfect fit for your taste. Happy reading!