Gideon the Ninth

In a galaxy ruled by necromancers, Gideon Nav is an orphan raised in the dilapidated Ninth House, a dominion of bones and dust. Yearning for freedom from a life of servitude and constant conflict with her childhood nemesis, Harrowhark Nonagesimus, Gideon plans a daring escape. However, her hopes are dashed when Harrowhark, the fierce bone witch and Reverend Daughter of the Ninth House, demands Gideon's service. The Emperor has summoned heirs from all nine Houses to a deadly, arcane trial at Canaan House, promising immense power and immortality to the victor. But no necromancer can ascend without their Cavalier. Gideon, a formidable swordswoman armed with wit and bravado, is forced to masquerade as Harrowhark's Cavalier. Together, these sworn enemies must navigate a labyrinthine mansion, ancient secrets, cut-throat politics, and lethal challenges posed by the other Houses, all while uncovering a deeper, more terrifying mystery. Their survival—and the future of the Ninth House—depends on their begrudging alliance.