scijessreads

If you liked Babel by R.F. Kuang, or V for Vendetta, Ten Incarnations of Rebellion weaves a related story. One of an alternate history of India where the British manage to hold on to their colonial rule. Where they – as any colonizing force in history does – take a patronizing stance toward those they subdue in the name of “this is better for them than what they were doing on their own before we came to help them find the light.” Not a quote, that line, but more a sentiment.

What we get to read are the ten moments in Kalki’s life that mark her finding, participating in, and eventually leading a resistance-turned-rebellion. What we get to read are all of the smaller moments of selfishness and selflessness and love and heartbreak and betrayal that shape Kalki and Fauzia and Yashua. These three women take the embers of resistance and fan the flames, creating smoke and fire.

This is one of those books that is hard to read because it is rooted in history and the present. What we see here has happened, is happening, and will happen again. But what we look for is a reason to push back, to dream for better.

Who gets to measure the cost of freedom and determine if it is worth the price? Does it matter our motivations for taking part (or not)? In the end, Ten Incarnations of Rebellion leaves us with the story of women who take on power, brick by brick, and dare to try for freedom.

I read this early as an ARC. All opinions are my own.