Ninth House: A Novel (Ninth House Series, 1) Leigh Bardugo

Leigh Bardugo's mesmerizing adult debut, "Ninth House," introduces readers to Galaxy 'Alex' Stern, an unlikely freshman at Yale with a troubled past. Raised in the outskirts of Los Angeles, Alex has faced adversity, including surviving a horrific, unsolved multiple homicide. At her lowest point, she's offered a second chance: a full scholarship to Yale. But there's a catch.

Tasked by mysterious benefactors, Alex is thrust into the world of Yale's secret societies, known for harboring the future elite. However, she soon discovers that their activities delve into the occult, revealing sinister secrets beyond her imagination.

Bardugo's narrative expertly blends elements of mystery, fantasy, and the occult, captivating readers with its intricate plot and compelling characters. "Ninth House" offers a journey into a world of hidden societies and dark magic, reminiscent of authors like Deborah Harkness, Neil Gaiman, Susanna Clarke, and Ben Aaronovitch.

Praised as a "master of fantasy" and hailed for creating "the best magic universe since Harry Potter," Bardugo's work has been lauded by critics and readers alike for its bewitching storytelling and immersive world-building. "Ninth House" promises an unforgettable reading experience, impossible to put down and perfect for fans of dark fantasy and supernatural mysteries.