This is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone is a science fiction novella with a romantic subplot, focusing on two-time travelers, Red and Blue, as they aid their side in an ongoing war. The book has gained a lot of popularity which is why I initially picked it up. After completing it I understood why it received such high praise. First, the book is relatively short, making it a quick read. Along with its length, the romantic subplot between the two female time travelers makes the book a good representation for those looking for a queer romance. However, one setback from making this book great is that following the plot takes a lot of focus.
People who enjoy beautiful or flowy writing, want to see new formats in their book, or want a brisk read will appreciate this novella. The author’s mastery of descriptive storytelling paints a picture for the reader, further enhancing the quality of the story. With its short chapters, written in a letter-like format, and unpredictable plot twists, readers will find this novella more interesting than other books.
