The Guns of the South

Harry Turtledove

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Who Would Like This Book:

Ever wondered what would happen if time travelers handed AK-47s to Confederate soldiers during the Civil War? 'The Guns of the South' takes one of the wildest 'what ifs' in alternate history and spins it into an addictively readable blend of military strategy, political intrigue, and big moral questions. If you’re fascinated by history, love speculative fiction, or are just a fan of seeing how one change can spiral into a whole new world, this one’s for you. You’ll especially enjoy it if you like vivid characters (like a well-drawn Robert E. Lee), detailed battle scenes, and thought-provoking discussions about race, nationhood, and unintended consequences.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Not everyone is going to love this book’s sci-fi twist - a few found the time travel aspects a stretch too far, and some wished the focus had stayed on more subtle, realistic historical change rather than high-concept plot devices. The pacing can also lag in places, especially during long political or military discussions, and some characters (especially the time travelers) can come off a bit one-dimensional. If you’re looking for pure Civil War history without wild imaginings, or if over-the-top alternate history isn’t your thing, you might want to pass.

A wild, thought-provoking ride through an alternate Civil War - equal parts imaginative and grounded in historical detail. Perfect for fans of alternate history, but the time traveling twist won’t be for everyone.

About:

The Guns of the South by Harry Turtledove is an alternate history novel that explores the scenario where time-traveling white supremacists from the future provide the Confederate Army with modern weaponry like AK-47s during the American Civil War. The book delves into the consequences of this intervention, including the impact on historical events and the development of a newly empowered Confederacy. Through the perspectives of characters like Robert E. Lee and Nate Caudell, the story weaves a thought-provoking narrative that combines elements of historical fiction with speculative fiction, creating a captivating blend of realism and imagination.

Characters:

The characters are diverse, with nuanced portrayals of historical figures like Robert E. Lee and the contrast of ordinary soldiers, though some antagonists lack depth.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging, blending historical detail with imaginative elements, incorporating multiple viewpoints to enrich the narrative.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot uniquely intertwines time travel and alternate history, showcasing how the introduction of advanced weaponry alters the outcome of the American Civil War and prompts significant societal changes.

Setting:

The setting is grounded in the American Civil War era, evoking the historical context while introducing speculative elements.

Pacing:

The pacing varies, with action sequences interspersed with political discourse; it maintains reader engagement while allowing for deeper thematic exploration.

Headquarters January 20, 1864 Mr. President: I have delayed replying to your letter of the 4th until the time arrived for the execution of the attempt on New Berne. I regret very much that the boats o...

Notes:

The novel is set in 1864 during the American Civil War.

It features time travelers from 2014 who give the Confederate Army AK-47s.

The time travelers are white supremacists from South Africa.

Robert E. Lee serves as one of the main viewpoint characters.

Another main character is First Sergeant Nate Caudell, representing the common man's view.

The novel explores the implications of the South winning the Civil War, including political and social changes.

It critiques concepts of states' rights and slavery as the central themes of the Civil War.

The South faces diplomatic challenges with other nations due to its slaveholding status.

Lee contemplates emancipating slaves after the war, which goes against the time travelers' agenda.

The story involves military strategies and battles, with detailed historical elements incorporated.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers include themes of racism, violence, and historical context relating to slavery and its societal impacts.

Has Romance?

While romance is not the central theme, there are romantic elements that are woven into the narrative, particularly through the character of Nate Caudell.

From The Publisher:

"It is absolutely unique-without question the most fascinating Civil War novel I have ever read."

Professor James M. McPherson

Pultizer Prize-winning BATTLE CRY OF FREEDOM

January 1864-General Robert E. Lee faces defeat. The Army of Northern Virginia is ragged and ill-equpped. Gettysburg has broken the back of the Confederacy and decimated its manpower.

Then, Andries Rhoodie, a strange man with an unplaceable accent, approaches Lee with an extraordinary offer. Rhoodie demonstrates an amazing rifle: Its rate of fire is incredible, its lethal efficiency breathtaking-and Rhoodie guarantees unlimited quantitites to the Confederates.

The name of the weapon is the AK-47….

Selected by the Science Fiction Book Club

A Main Selection of the Military Book Club

1992

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561 pages

Ratings (9)

Loved It (6)
Liked It (1)
Did Not Like (2)

Reader Stats (41):

Read It (10)
Currently Reading (1)
Want To Read (18)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (11)

What can you read after
The Guns of the South?

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About the Author:

Harry Turtledove is the award-winning author of the alternate-history works The Man with the Iron Heart, The Guns of the South, and How Few Remain (winner of the Sidewise Award for Best Novel); the Hot War books: Bombs Away, Fallout,…

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