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A review by loganjana
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo
dark
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I really enjoyed this book! It was my first Leigh Bardugo novel and, I gotta say, it definitely made me want to pick up her others. Ive had a tragically difficult time finding adult fantasy novels that I like, and she has a beautiful writing style.
Here’s a warning, though; it’s not at all escapist fantasy. In fact, the fantasy element of the story was fairly muted. I really like that, but I was surprised by it and I imagine some people would be upset by it. I, personally, loved that she blatantly addressed a lot of issues that are often only alluded to in fantasy, if they’re addressed at all (sexism, racism, classism).
Also, I didn’t expect ghosts? I dunno if I missed that somewhere in the marketing or blip but that wasn’t at all what I thought I was in for. Not mad about it, just surprised.
That being said, the magic system is a little confusing. I’m still not really sure how it works, but I think the idea is that most of the characters don’t know how it works. What I did really like was the way it was used, and the motivation for using magic as a way to gain wealth is really unique.
Overall, if you’re looking for dark academia with a dash of magic and ghosties, this is right up your alley.
Here’s a warning, though; it’s not at all escapist fantasy. In fact, the fantasy element of the story was fairly muted. I really like that, but I was surprised by it and I imagine some people would be upset by it. I, personally, loved that she blatantly addressed a lot of issues that are often only alluded to in fantasy, if they’re addressed at all (sexism, racism, classism).
Also, I didn’t expect ghosts? I dunno if I missed that somewhere in the marketing or blip but that wasn’t at all what I thought I was in for. Not mad about it, just surprised.
That being said, the magic system is a little confusing. I’m still not really sure how it works, but I think the idea is that most of the characters don’t know how it works. What I did really like was the way it was used, and the motivation for using magic as a way to gain wealth is really unique.
Overall, if you’re looking for dark academia with a dash of magic and ghosties, this is right up your alley.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Addiction, Gore, Rape, Sexism, Sexual assault, and Injury/Injury detail