In a world of so many stories, so many books adhere to existing genres and are never a surprise. It is here that readers most often want more: something original, something that breaks through with both narrative and structure.
But such a book is frustratingly hard to find. Many novels would have great stories, but few actually create that kind of read which stays in your mind long after you finished turning the last page. Very few books transcend genres of time-travel, war, or love.
This Is How You Lose the Time War, a novel that cares little about genre. Written by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone, this novel brings together elements of time travel, romance, and poetical prose in a way that is both captivating and challenging to its readers. If you’ve been looking for that kinda story, well, here it is.
Overview of This Is How You Lose the Time War
This Is How You Lose the Time War is a novella set in a future where two agents, Red and Blue, battle across different timelines. The two come from opposing factions: Red, who belongs to the technological Agency, and Blue, who represents the organic Garden. These factions are locked in an eternal conflict, trying to bend the timeline to their own ends.
Throughout the novella, Red and Blue exchange letters hidden in strange places and forms — woven into tree bark, encased in lava, or whispered through the wind. What starts as a form of taunting between rivals gradually evolves into a deep, intimate relationship. The novella’s structure is unconventional, composed of letters between the two agents, interspersed with short action sequences.
The writing itself is poetic and abstract, requiring readers to engage actively with the text. Though the novella is short (just under 200 pages), it packs an emotional punch. The balance of romance and time-traveling warfare makes This Is How You Lose the Time War a truly unique literary experience.
Themes and Concepts Explored in This Is How You Lose the Time War
The novella delves into several thought-provoking themes:
1. Time Travel and Manipulation
At its core, This Is How You Lose the Time War is about time travel, but it avoids the usual tropes. Time travel is used not just as a plot device but as a metaphor for the complexity of relationships. The agents manipulate time to gain advantages in the war, but as they exchange letters, time itself becomes secondary to the connection they build.
2. Love and Rivalry
The relationship between Red and Blue is deeply layered. On the surface, they are enemies, each working to undo the other’s actions. However, their rivalry evolves into something more profound as their letters reveal vulnerabilities, fears, and hopes. The gradual shift from hostility to love adds an emotional depth to the story.
3. Identity and Transformation
Red and Blue are not just warriors in a time war — they are symbols of larger, conflicting ideologies. As the story progresses, both characters begin to question their loyalties and identities. The letters allow them to break free from their predetermined roles and explore who they truly are, outside of the war.
4. The Power of Communication
The letters exchanged between Red and Blue serve as the central narrative device. Through these letters, they transcend time, space, and even their loyalties. The novella explores how communication can bridge divides and bring people closer, even in the most unlikely of circumstances.
Critical Reception and Awards
This Is How You Lose the Time War has received widespread critical acclaim since its release in 2019. The novella won several prestigious awards, including the Hugo Award for Best Novella in 2020, the Nebula Award for Best Novella in 2019, and the Locus Award. It has been praised for its lyrical prose, inventive structure, and emotional depth.
Readers and critics alike have noted the novella’s ability to blend genres. It appeals to fans of science fiction, romance, and literary fiction. The unconventional narrative style — focused on letters rather than traditional storytelling — has also been highlighted as one of the novella’s strengths.
What Sets This Is How You Lose the Time War Apart?
1. Innovative Structure
One of the standout features of This Is How You Lose the Time War is its structure. The novella is composed mainly of letters exchanged between the two protagonists. This format not only provides insight into their thoughts and emotions but also allows for a more intimate connection with the reader. Unlike traditional storytelling, where plot and action take precedence, the focus here is on communication and introspection.
2. Lyrical Writing Style
Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone have crafted a book that reads like poetry. The language is rich, evocative, and at times, surreal. Every letter is filled with metaphor and imagery, requiring the reader to slow down and savor each word. The prose doesn’t just tell a story — it immerses the reader in a world where time, love, and war intertwine.
3. Character Development Through Letters
The use of letters allows for deep character development. Through their written exchanges, Red and Blue reveal aspects of their personalities, pasts, and desires that wouldn’t have come to light through traditional dialogue or action scenes. As readers, we are privy to their most intimate thoughts, making their bond all the more poignant.
Why You Should Read This Is How You Lose the Time War
If you are looking for a book that challenges conventional storytelling, This Is How You Lose the Time War should be on your reading list. Here are some reasons why:
1. A Fresh Take on Time Travel
Unlike many other time-travel stories that focus on paradoxes and alternate realities, this novella uses time travel as a backdrop for a love story. The mechanics of time travel are not the central focus; rather, it’s the emotional journey of the characters that takes center stage.
2. A Quick Yet Impactful Read
At just under 200 pages, This Is How You Lose the Time War is a novella that can be read in a day. Despite its brevity, the emotional and intellectual weight of the story is immense. The novella lingers in your mind long after you’ve finished reading, making it a rewarding experience.
3. An Exploration of Love and Identity
The relationship between Red and Blue is beautifully complex. As they exchange letters, they move from being enemies to lovers, but their love is always tinged with uncertainty. Can they trust each other? Can they love each other while serving opposing sides in a war? These questions make their bond all the more compelling.
Final Thoughts on This Is How You Lose the Time War
This Is How You Lose the Time War is a masterful blend of science fiction, romance, and poetic prose. Its unconventional structure, coupled with its emotionally resonant themes, sets it apart from other books in the genre. For readers looking to explore a unique narrative that delves into love, time, and identity, this novella offers a thought-provoking and rewarding experience.
The novella doesn’t cater to every reader — its abstract style and fragmented storytelling may not appeal to those who prefer more traditional narratives. However, for those willing to engage with its lyrical prose and complex themes, This Is How You Lose the Time War is a journey worth taking.
If you enjoy books that challenge your perception of time and reality, and if you appreciate beautifully crafted language, this novella is a must-read. Its accolades and widespread acclaim speak to its ability to resonate with readers across genres. Whether you’re a fan of science fiction, romance, or literary fiction, This Is How You Lose the Time War is a book that offers something truly special.
How This Is How You Lose the Time War Stands Out in Modern Literature
This time literati, where stories often follow formulaic paths, This Is How You Lose the Time War stands out as a beacon of creativity. The novella pushes the boundaries of what a love story, a time travel tale, or even a war narrative can be. Its ability to blend these genres into a cohesive, emotional, and intellectual journey makes it one of the most intriguing reads in recent years.
The relationship between Red and Blue is at the heart of the story, but the world-building, the concept of time war, and the poetic language all contribute to making this novella a modern classic. The book asks deep questions about identity, loyalty, and the nature of love in a world where time is malleable and reality is constantly shifting.
For readers who are tired of predictable plots and are looking for something that challenges both the mind and the heart, This Is How You Lose the Time War offers a fresh and invigorating experience.