In the far reaches of space, the art of necromancy merges with swordplay to create a unique tapestry of intrigue and action. 'Gideon the Ninth,' by Tamsyn Muir, is the first novel of The Locked Tomb Trilogy, introducing Gideon, a sword-wielding, magazine-reading rebel, determined to escape her life of servitude. Raised among ossifying nuns and the undead, she is ready to claim her freedom. Standing in her way, however, is her nemesis, the brilliant bone witch Harrowhark Nonagesimus. When the Emperor summons the heirs of his loyal Houses to compete in a deadly trial of intellect and combat, Harrowhark must participate to secure immortal power and ensure the survival of their house. For success, she needs Gideon's blade. With no choice but to partner with Harrowhark, Gideon confronts a future where life, death, and loyalty are entwined, and some truths are best kept buried. Together, they navigate a labyrinth of alliances, ancient retainers, and life-threatening challenges that push the boundaries of what it means to live and to die.