A review by pinkrosehip
Babel by R.F. Kuang

challenging dark tense medium-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? Yes

5.0

I am a Babel defender through and through.  While the magic system is a bit slippery and perhaps not passable for high fantasy fanatics, I think the idea of tying the colonial power of language to a magic system is incredibly brilliant.  I really appreciate how all characters relate to revolution.  I love the way Robin gets thrown into an "all or nothing" mindset, which is realistic.  I love that Letty has white girl moments and is able to remove herself from the narrative because of her privilege.  The intersection of characters is necessary and meaningful to the plot.   It's a bit dark, a bit twisted, it's not a happy ending, but it shouldn't be.