Babel: Or the Necessity of Violence is a powerful blend of dark academia, historical fiction, and fantasy that explores language, colonialism, and resistance. Set in 1830s Oxford, the novel follows Robin Swift, an orphan from Canton who is brought to England to study translation at the prestigious Royal Institute of Translation—nicknamed Babel. But behind the scholarly prestige lies a brutal truth: Babel uses magical silverworking, powered by language, to maintain the British Empire’s dominance. As Robin uncovers the injustice embedded in the system, he is forced to choose between loyalty and rebellion. R.F. Kuang weaves complex themes with rich world-building and emotional depth. Intellectually sharp, morally bold, and deeply immersive, Babel is a must-read for fans of thought-provoking fantasy.