Who Would Like This Book:
If you love alternate history, adventurous what-if scenarios, and lush world-building, "Conquistador" is a real treat. Stirling has a knack for painting vivid landscapes - especially a wild, untouched California - that'll hook nature lovers and history buffs alike. The story throws you into a secret society running a modern colony in a parallel world, with political intrigue and suspense throughout. Fans of thought-provoking science fiction and those who've enjoyed works like "Dies the Fire" or even classic adventure tales should definitely check this out. There's even a touch of romance for those who like a bit of personal drama amid their alternate universe escapades.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers found the pacing on the slow side, especially with the sometimes dense descriptions of landscapes and ecological details. If you like tightly-plotted, action-heavy novels, you might get bogged down here. Others were put off by flat or stereotypical characters, particularly the "Mary Sue"-ish lead and the old-school tough guy types. If you’re uncomfortable with stories that center on unapologetically problematic or "deplorable" characters, or if you need a strong moral stance rather than shades of grey, this book might not be your cup of tea.
About:
In 'Conquistador', S.M. Stirling presents an alternate Earth where a group of individuals discovers a passage to a parallel world in California in 1946. They begin to colonize this new land, creating a new society and facing challenges such as political intrigue and the impact of European colonization on the indigenous population. The story unfolds with detailed descriptions of the alternate world, its political and social development, and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters as they navigate this unspoiled territory.
The plot of 'Conquistador' revolves around the exploration of a parallel Earth that diverged from history due to the absence of European exploration of the New World. The narrative spans across two universes, blending elements of mystery, action, and political intrigue. Stirling's writing style is described as descriptive and detailed, offering vivid depictions of battle scenes, world-building, and character development that immerse the reader in the story.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings may include depictions of violence, morally questionable actions, and themes of colonization that may be sensitive to some readers.
Has Romance?
There are elements of romance present, rating it medium in terms of prominence within the narrative.
From The Publisher:
"In this luscious alternative universe, sidekicks quote the Lone Ranger and Right inevitably triumphs with panache. What more could adventure-loving readers ask for?"-Publishers Weekly
Oakland, 1946. Ex-soldier John Rolfe, newly back from the Pacific, has made a fabulous discovery: A portal to an alternate America where Europeans have never set foot-and the only other humans in sight are a band of very curious Indians. Able to return at will to the modern world, Rolfe summons the only people with whom he is willing to share his discovery: his war buddies. And tells them to bring their families…
Los Angeles, twenty-first century. Fish and Game warden Tom Christiansen is involved in the bust of a smuggling operation. What he turns up is something he never anticipated: a photo of authentic Aztec priests decked out in Grateful Dead T-shirts, and a live condor from a gene pool that doesn't correspond to any known in captivity or the wild. It is a find that will lead him to a woman named Adrienne Rolfe-and a secret that's been hidden for sixty years…
Ratings (5)
Loved It (3) | |
Liked It (1) | |
Did Not Like (1) |
Reader Stats (16):
Read It (5) | |
Want To Read (9) | |
Not Interested (2) |
What can you read after
Conquistador?
About the Author:
S. M. Stirling is the author of many science fiction and fantasy novels, including the Novels of the Change and the Shadowspawn series. A former lawyer and an amateur historian, he lives in the Southwest with his wife, Jan.
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