A review by anapthine
Babel: Or the Necessity of Violence: An Arcane History of the Oxford Translators' Revolution by R.F. Kuang

dark emotional tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.75

 Thank you Net Galley and HarperCollins UK Audio for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Wow, this was incredible. 

Babel follows protagonist Robin, who has a skill with languages. After the death of his family, Robin Swift is taken to England by Professor Lovell. Here he joins the Royal Institute of Translation in Oxford University. When attending he meets Ramiz, Victoire and Letitia, who were all in very similar situations to him. Soon they become inseparable and work together to uncover the secrets of Babel. This novel shines a light on Colonialism in the Victorian Era and the effects on colonised communities having their existence diminished. Babel is full of love, betrayal, secrets and family. The language is compelling, emotional and incredibly skilled. R.F. Kuang is yet again a genius and I think this book deserves to be nominated for the Booker Prize. The way this book made me feel was incredible - I highly recommend it. 

 
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