Gideon the Ninth

I'm surprised no one mentioned the Locked Tomb Trilogy by Tamsyn Muir, that would be my personal recommendation! Take a look at this tagline from the first book, Gideon the Ninth: “The Emperor needs necromancers. The Ninth Necromancer needs a swordswoman. Gideon has a sword, some dirty magazines, and no more time for undead bullshit.” Doesn't this make you want to immediately read it?

The setting: it is wildly different from GB, it's mainly sci-fi with some elements of fantasy. It's really unique and compelling, it takes place in a solar system where humanity has achieved space travel and colonized other planets. It is ruled by an Emperor, who after a great cataclysm that wiped out humanity, resurrected them and is now worshipped by all as their savior. He taught humanity necromancy and now rules over the Nine Houses (that's what the empire is called).

The characters: The protagonist, Gideon, is basically Locke but if he were a woman, buff, and knew how to wield a sword. She is witty and funny, but also surprisingly caring. We also follow another protagonist, Harrowhark. She's sarcastic, cold and has kind of a stick up her butt, but she's also a very gentle person underneath her shell. Honestly, she reminds me a bit of Sabetha, but in a good way. The supporting cast is very memorable, all of them leave an impression on you.

The writing: oh my god, the writing. The banter. The memes. If you liked Scott Lynch's writing, then Tamsyn Muir's is definitely up your alley. It's both funny and serious, the interaction between Gideon and Harrow is the highlight of the book. They start off hating each other, but through trials and tribulations get to know one another and develop a friendship that is not unlike Jean and Locke's in that they'd literally die for one another.

I conjure you all to give this book a try if you haven't already! I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes from the first novel, in the hopes that it might pique your interest enough to head to your local bookstore and/or library.

“Nonagesimus,” she said slowly, “the only job I'd do for you would be if you wanted someone to hold the sword as you fell on it. The only job I'd do for you would be if you wanted your ass kicked so hard, the Locked Tomb opened and a parade came out to sing, ‘Lo! A destructed ass.' The only job I'd do would be if you wanted me to spot you while you backflipped off the top tier into Drearburh.”

“That's three jobs,” said Harrowhark.”