Content levels
Positive tags
Heroine archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Synopsis
The Emperor needs necromancers. The Ninth Necromancer needs a swordswoman. Gideon has a sword, some dirty magazines, and no more time for undead nonsense. Brought up by unfriendly, ossifying nuns, ancient retainers, and countless skeletons, Gideon is ready to abandon a life of servitude and an afterlife as a reanimated corpse. She packs up her sword, her shoes, and her dirty magazines, and prepares to launch her daring escape. But her childhood nemesis won’t set her free without a service. Harrowhark Nonagesimus, Reverend Daughter of the Ninth House and bone witch extraordinaire, has been summoned into action. The Emperor has invited the heirs to each of his loyal Houses to a deadly trial of wits and skill. If Harrowhark succeeds she will be become an immortal, all-powerful servant of the Resurrection, but no necromancer can ascend without their cavalier. Without Gideon’s sword, Harrow will fail, and the Ninth House will die. Of course, some things are better left dead.
Locked Tomb Series, Harrow the Ninth, Gideon the Ninth and Nona the Ninth, Set of 3 Books: content & age rating
Intended for adult readers (18+).
This darkly comic necromantic fantasy features graphic violence, body horror involving skeletons and reanimation, strong language throughout, and LGBTQ+ romantic content. The series deals with themes of death, grief, and trauma with intense emotional complexity.
What to know going in
This book has strong violence, moderate sexual content, and strong language. Content notes include child abuse, suicide, gore, death, and grief (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Teens and adults who love witty, complex sci-fi/fantasy mashups with sapphic romance, dark humor, and intricate worldbuilding will devour this necromantic space opera.