Book Review: This Is How You Lose the Time War
When I first stumbled upon This Is How You Lose the Time War, I was instantly enamored by the rich possibilities of the title. Written by the ingenious duo of Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone, this novella promised an exploration of not just time travel, but the intricate, intertwining threads of love and rivalry. As a lover of both genre-bending stories and poetic prose, I felt a gravitational pull toward a book that blended science fiction with romantic epistolary elements—and I wasn’t disappointed.
The novella introduces us to two seemingly opposing forces: Red, an agent from the militaristic Commandant, and Blue, a guardian of a more organic existence. Their rivalry spins into a beautifully layered correspondence, igniting with a taunt in a letter that reads, “Burn before reading.” From that moment on, their exchanges evolve from playful barbs to delicate, heartfelt confessions, creating an illuminating canvas of longing and connection amidst the chaos of war.
What I found especially compelling was how El-Mohtar and Gladstone used language as a weapon, exploring themes of duality, time, and the cost of choices. Each beautifully crafted phrase felt like a carefully orchestrated dance, reflecting the complexity of both the world they inhabited and the bond they formed. The writing is lush yet precise; it invites readers to savor each sentence and uncover layers of meaning upon reflection. As one reviewer said, “[It] goes beyond that… It’s about a feeling.”
The pacing might feel like a slow burn initially, requiring an adjustment to the unique narrative style, but once you embrace it, you’ll find that the moments of tension are eclipsed by bursts of profound clarity and emotion. Each letter reads like poetry, laden with metaphor and imagery that resonate deeply. My personal favorite was a note etched into the rings of a centuries-old tree—the mere thought of it is enough to send shivers down the spine.
This Is How You Lose the Time War is not merely about love; it confronts the harsh realities of war while offering a bittersweet reflection on what it means to sacrifice for connection. It challenges societal norms and presents a sapphic romance that is as complex as it is beautiful.
For those who appreciate the blending of genres—where science fiction meets lyrical writing—you’ll find joy in this novella. It may not resonate with every reader; some might find its depth challenging, but for those willing to delve into its intricacies, the rewards are plentiful. This is a book that comes alive on re-readings, each pass revealing something new, as you peel back the layers of Red and Blue’s saga.
In short, This Is How You Lose the Time War not only lives up to its accolades—a Hugo, Nebula, and Locus Award winner—but also captures a part of my heart. It’s a book I’ll revisit, not only as a literary gem but as an emotional experience that lingers long after the last page. If you’re looking for a love story that transcends time and space, you’ve found it here.