This is How You Lose the Time War Review

I found this book through watching Joel at Fictional Fates on Youtube. I am glad I went on his recommendation because I do not read a lot of sci-fi. This one was definitely worth it. I found the context of the time war and how the timelines and communications actually worked somewhat confusing, but that did not dampen my enjoyment at all. I leaned into that confusion. I wish I had read it in one sitting, but unfortunately, I had “responsibilities” and “work,” so I spread it out over three days.

This book follows two fighters on opposite sides of a war in a dying world who start an unlikely correspondence when one of them finds a note that reads “burn before reading.” Finally, some appreciation for letter-writing in the twenty-first century. Sci-fi, but make it literary. The writing is beautiful and really made my experience of this book. I found it perfect to read alongside The Bone Season books, especially while I was waiting for The Mask Falling to come out.

This is How You Lose the Time War has a sapphic romance element to it, which is touching and heart-wrenching. In addition, it also has an action-adventure aspect to it, as both the main characters are agents in a war effort. I did not see any of the twists coming and was surprised (pleasantly!) by the ending. I was sad that the story ended, but it is perfect the way it is. Would recommend this novella!