In the Watchful City

CW: suicide, mention of a suicide attempt, body mutilation, foot binding

I've only read one short story by the author before but I was so profoundly moved by it, that I had to add this novella to my tbr as soon as I got to know about it. And was doubly excited when I got the arc.

I will be honest and say it took me a few pages to get into this story and it was pretty slow going until then. Biocyberpunk is not a genre I would willingly pick up if not for being excited about the author's work, and it's also my shortcoming for not being aware enough about neopronouns that extensive usage of them in this story hindered my reading a bit at the beginning. But the author employs a story with the story kind of narrative device in this book, and by the time I was done with the first narrated “story”, I was totally hooked. Rooted in Asian history and culture, the author deeply explores themes of grief and oppression and trauma, and how they affect us, sometimes even without us knowing that we are experiencing the effects. Another thing that really connected to me was the subtle discussion about borders and immigration, and how this has a disparate impact on one's core identity as well as relationship with family.

Amina is a fascinating character. Æ became an extrasensory human to watch over the city of Ora because ær circumstances didn't leave Amina many choices. But new traumatic experiences has ær questioning if æ are truly protecting the citizens and if ær choices are correct. Meeting the enigmatic Vessel and ser cabinet of curiosities also opens up a whole new world of stories and possibilities to Amina, finally letting ær feel comfortable enough to make life altering decisions for ærself. We also meet many amazing characters within the narrated stories, who give us glimpses into understanding what having agency and being able to make choices means, and questioning us if we have the strength to face the consequences.

Overall, this was a very unique, one of a kind book which even if confusing at times, is something to be experienced. This queernormative Asian inspired futuristic world and it's deeply moving characters have left an impression on me and I would definitely want everyone to dive into it as well. Just remember that this novella is more on the profound and thought provoking side, and not a fast paced sci-fi adventure.