Episode 4: Unlocking Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo

Story Deep Dive – Episode 4: Unlocking Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo

Show Notes:

Welcome to Story Deep Dive!

In this episode, Dana and Rachel wrap up their in-depth discussion of Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo.

Whether you're a writer, reader, or storyteller, you’ll gain valuable insights into crafting character-driven plots, navigating morally gray protagonists, and creating series that hook readers from book one.

You can also watch the video version of this podcast on YouTube!

[0:00] – Introduction: Wrapping Up Ninth House

Dana and Rachel set the tone for the final Ninth House episode, sharing reflections on how their opinions evolved throughout their deep dive. Dana recalls her initial hesitation due to the novel’s dark themes, while Rachel reflects on why she recommended this book in the first place.

[5:30] – Book Contrast and What’s Next

The hosts tease their next book discussion, Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score, highlighting the stark contrast between a gritty fantasy and a light-hearted romance. Rachel shares how rereading the new pick has been an enjoyable and refreshing experience, especially after Ninth House’s intensity.

[12:00] – Reading Across Genres

Rachel emphasizes the importance of reading outside your genre to grow as a writer and expand your creative toolkit. Dana agrees, noting that exposure to different storytelling styles can inspire fresh approaches to character and theme.

[22:00] – Plot Structure and Narrative Drive

The discussion shifts to the structure of Ninth House. Rachel highlights the importance of building subplots that enhance rather than distract from the core narrative. They examine how Bardugo uses the murder investigation to drive Alex Stern’s character growth and keep readers engaged.

[35:00] – Character Development and Identity

Dana and Rachel delve into the complexity of Alex Stern as a protagonist. They discuss how Bardugo explores Alex’s layered identities, trauma, and resilience, creating a character who defies stereotypes. Dana notes how Alex’s gritty realism makes her relatable despite her young age.

[50:00] – Thematic Depth and World-Building

Rachel praises Bardugo’s ability to set the tone for a dark, unpredictable world from the very first scene, preparing readers for the emotional and thematic journey ahead. The hosts discuss how Bardugo uses the setting of Yale’s secret societies to address issues of power, exploitation, and survival.

[1:05:00] – Series Continuity and “Soft” Cliffhangers

The hosts analyze how Bardugo balances resolution with anticipation in book one of a series. They reflect on the effectiveness of closing the murder mystery while leaving hints about future conflicts, creating a “soft cliffhanger” that keeps readers eager for the sequel.

[1:15:00] – Morally Gray Protagonists and Suspension of Belief

Dana and Rachel explore how Bardugo’s portrayal of Alex’s morally gray nature enhances the story. They discuss the importance of earning readers' trust when introducing darker themes and how Bardugo navigates this through consistent character motivation and stakes.

[1:25:00] – Lessons for Writers: Reading Like a Writer

The hosts underscore the importance of reading as a writer. Dana explains how analyzing another author’s work can illuminate storytelling strengths and weaknesses in one’s own writing. Rachel encourages writers to study how Bardugo handles tone, pacing, and theme to deepen their own craft.

[1:40:00] – Final Reflections

Dana and Rachel reflect on their experience reading and analyzing Ninth House. They emphasize how stories that challenge readers’ comfort zones can help clarify their own creative goals and inspire bold storytelling choices.

Book Selection

Galaxy “Alex” Stern is the most unlikely member of Yale’s freshman class. Raised in the Los Angeles hinterlands by a hippie mom, Alex dropped out of school early and into a world of shady drug-dealer boyfriends, dead-end jobs, and much, much worse. In fact, by age twenty, she is the sole survivor of a horrific, unsolved multiple homicide. Some might say she’s thrown her life away. But at her hospital bed, Alex is offered a second chance: to attend one of the world’s most prestigious universities on a full ride. What’s the catch, and why her?

Still searching for answers, Alex arrives in New Haven tasked by her mysterious benefactors with monitoring the activities of Yale’s secret societies. Their eight windowless “tombs” are the well-known haunts of the rich and powerful, from high-ranking politicos to Wall Street’s biggest players. But their occult activities are more sinister and more extraordinary than any paranoid imagination might conceive. They tamper with forbidden magic. They raise the dead. And, sometimes, they prey on the living.

Where to Find the Book

Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo is available in physical, ebook, and audiobook formats. It’s also widely available in libraries and online retailers. Details on the author’s website.

Next Episode:

In the next episode, Dana and Rachel will explore Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score, diving into a fun, romantic story filled with small-town charm and sizzling chemistry. Be sure to tune in!

Join the Conversation:

Like what you heard? Subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts! Follow Story Deep Dive on your favorite platforms and connect with Dana and Rachel to keep the discussion going!

Discussion Question:

How can writers effectively use plot events to challenge their characters’ core beliefs and drive their emotional growth without derailing the story’s pacing or thematic focus?