A review by meep_7
The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley

adventurous emotional hopeful mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Forgiveness, which takes you back to the person you were and lets you reset them. Hope, which exists in a future in which you are new. Forgiveness and hope are miracles. They let you change your life. They are time-travel.

One of the most unique books I've read this year.I have a feeling I won't be forgetting anytime soon

In this story, time travel and government drama serve as the backdrop for some truly remarkable characters. Picture a near-future British-Cambodian woman and a man raised during the height of the British Empire living together in the same house. This setup leads to many hilarious moments and meaningful discussions about the changes that have occurred over time. The dynamic between the main characters with each other and with the side character is absolutely delightful.

“You’re a musician. How can you have no sense of time-keeping?”
“You are a larger instrument than a flute.”
“I bet you say that to all the girls.”

“I don’t dance. I took up the flute especially, in order that no one would ask me.”

“In this age, musicians are imprinted inside music boxes, and there is no need for the band to keep time,” said Margaret. “You will instruct me in the polka, or I will step on your toes.”
“I think ‘feminism’ has gone to your head. Ow!”

“Oh. Thank you. You—knew I played the flute?”
“A couple of extant letters from you and referring to you mention it.”

“Did you read the letters that mentioned my mania for arson and my lurid history of backstreet goose-wrestling?”
I turned around and stared at him.
“A joke,” he supplied.
“Ah. Are there going to be a lot of those?”
“It depends on how often you spring on me such statements as ‘I have read your personal letters.’

This novel is introspective, with a slow-burn romance that intensifies in the last 25%, but its dialogue-driven scenes keep the pace engaging. Bradley explores themes like colonialism, slavery, language, mixed-race identity, being white-passing, cultural exoticization, and inherited trauma. The main character carries the inherited trauma of the Cambodian genocide, which subtly affects her daily life and thoughts.

I loved the secondary characters, especially Margaret and Arthur. It's rare to find a book that's both entertaining and packed with important messages with exceptionally beautiful writing. Initially, I wanted more from the ending, but after some reflection, I think it struck the perfect balance, leaving me wanting more without going overboard.

This one will stay with me for a long time. 5 shinning stars for this stunning debut! The narrative, characters, and themes have left a profound impression, making it a memorable read that stands out among others.