Harrow the Ninth (The Locked Tomb Trilogy)

Overview of "Harrow the Ninth" by Tamsyn Muir

Plot Summary: "Harrow the Ninth" is the second installment in Tamsyn Muir's "The Locked Tomb" series, following "Gideon the Ninth." The novel is set in a science fantasy world where necromancy and advanced technology coexist. The story revolves around Harrowhark Nonagesimus, the heir to the Ninth House, who has ascended to Lyctorhood but finds her powers imperfect. Harrow is tasked with reviving her House by waking hundreds of new citizens from cryogenic sleep, a mission that is fraught with danger and mystery.

The narrative is presented in two formats: second-person narration in the present day, where Harrow grapples with her imperfect ascension and the consequences of her actions, and third-person narration in the past, which reveals events that contradict those in "Gideon the Ninth." In the past, Harrow and her cavalier, Ortus Nigenad, are part of a group at Canaan House, where they face a beast known as "the Sleeper." The novel also explores Harrow's hallucinations and her relationship with "the Body," a mysterious woman she saw in the Locked Tomb as a child.

Key Themes:

1. Identity and Purpose: Harrow's existence is deeply tied to her House, and she struggles to find her own identity beyond her role as a Lyctor.
2. Memory and Trauma: The novel delves into Harrow's fragmented memory and the traumatic events of her past, including her horrific childhood and her relationship with Gideon Nav.
3. Grief and Guilt: Harrow carries the weight of her House's downfall and the sacrifices made by others, leading to a deep sense of grief and guilt.
4. Necromancy and Power: The novel explores the complexities of necromancy and the power dynamics within the Houses, particularly the risks and consequences of Lyctorhood.
5. Relationships and Unrequited Love: Harrow's unrequited love for a corpse and Ianthe's growing crush on Harrow add layers to the narrative, highlighting themes of love, loss, and companionship.

Critical Reception: "Harrow the Ninth" has received widespread critical acclaim for its unique narrative structure, complex characters, and exploration of dark themes. Reviewers have praised Muir's writing for its depth and nuance, particularly in how it handles themes of grief, guilt, and devotion. The novel has been noted for its diverse cast of characters and its blend of science fiction and fantasy elements.

On Goodreads, the book has an average rating of 4.32 out of 5 stars, with many reviewers praising its intricate world-building and character development. The Catamount review highlights the series' ability to explore complex themes and emotions, noting that "Harrow lives not as a person, but as a purpose: to revive her House, so that her existence may be worth what it had cost" [3].

Overall, "Harrow the Ninth" is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged addition to "The Locked Tomb" series, offering a rich and immersive reading experience for fans of science fantasy and dark fantasy.

References:

1. The Locked Tomb Wiki - Fandom: Provides detailed information on characters, locations, and the overall universe of "The Locked Tomb" series.
2. Wikipedia - Harrow the Ninth: Offers a concise summary of the plot and key themes.
3. The Catamount Review: Offers a detailed analysis of the series, including its themes and character dynamics.
4. Bookycnidaria Review: Provides additional insights into the novel's plot and character relationships.
5. Goodreads - Harrow the Ninth: Offers reader reviews and ratings, providing a broader perspective on the book's reception.