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

challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense slow-paced

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

4.0

This is a great read, a fascinating magic system, and an intriguing storyline. It’s also a hard, heavy read. I’m glad I read it, but be prepared to leave brain space for heavy, real themes.

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Death, Domestic abuse, Gun violence, Physical abuse, Racism, Suicide, Violence, Grief, Murder, Colonisation, War, and Classism

Moderate: Child abuse, Toxic relationship, Forced institutionalization, Blood, Police brutality, Death of parent, Gaslighting, Toxic friendship, and Injury/Injury detail

Minor: Confinement and Alcohol