When Leigh Bardugo’s book, “Ninth House,” first hit the shelves, Stephen King had a secret prediction that Amazon’s upcoming TV adaptation of the dark fantasy series would be a resounding success. Following the popularity of Bardugo’s “Shadow & Bone,” which received its own Netflix adaptation, “Ninth House” is now in development for Amazon, offering a distinct tone from its predecessor.
“Ninth House” centers on Galaxy “Alex” Stern, a 20-year-old Yale University freshman with a troubled past as the survivor of a gruesome homicide. Alex possesses the extraordinary ability to see and interact with ghosts, whom she refers to as “Grays.” Despite her shadowy history, a mysterious benefactor grants her a full scholarship to Yale with one condition: she must use her unique talents to monitor the university’s secretive underground societies, engaged in dark occult practices. It’s a departure from the norm in television, but Stephen King, unbeknownst to many, has already offered insight into why it could become a massive hit.
Upon the release of the “Ninth House” novel, Stephen King hailed it as “the best fantasy novel [he’d] read in years.” He commended the book for its well-drawn characters and the gripping “shocks and twists” embedded in the narrative. It’s important to note that Stephen King has provided quotes for numerous debut novels in recent years, often associated with significant buzz and anticipation. Earning the endorsement of the literary giant can propel a book to greater recognition. However, King’s reputation for not endorsing subpar work suggests that his praise for “Ninth House” is a strong indicator of its quality.
This endorsement by Stephen King also hints at the potential success of Amazon’s adaptation of “Ninth House.” King’s recommendations span multiple genres, but he gravitates toward darker themes. His endorsement of “Ninth House” aligns with its tone, which blends elements of horror and fantasy. While categorized as “dark fantasy,” the series contains Gothic and supernatural elements that place it at the intersection of horror and fantasy. With its darker, more mature tone compared to Bardugo’s earlier work, “Ninth House” has the potential to attract three distinct audience groups: horror enthusiasts, young adult fantasy fans, and adult viewers seeking something unique.
Amazon, known for its successful original series, is in a prime position to score another hit with “Ninth House.” Among major streaming platforms, Amazon has demonstrated a willingness to explore darker and more mature themes in its series. This provides “Ninth House” the creative space to delve into deeper and more mature territory than it might on other platforms. Additionally, the series defies easy genre categorization, offering elements of fantasy, mystery, supernatural horror, and character-driven storytelling within the unique setting of Yale’s enigmatic underworld.
If executed effectively, “Ninth House” could become the type of show that captivates audiences, sparks discussions, and keeps viewers guessing. The mysteries surrounding Alex Stern and her narrative are richly developed, promising genuine intrigue without the need for contrived plot devices. The series incorporates both genuine horror and genuine emotional depth. Should the adaptation capture the essence that captivated Stephen King, “Ninth House” has the potential to be an exceptional addition to the world of television.
