Books matching: alternate history
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Save:'The Man in the High Castle' by Philip K. Dick is an alternate history novel that explores a world where the Axis powers won World War II. The book delves into a post-war setting where America is divided between Japanese rule on the west coast, Nazi control on the east coast, and an independent state in the Rocky Mountains. Through multiple character perspectives and a nested narrative involving a book titled 'The Grasshopper Lies Heavy,' the story raises questions about reality, art, and the impact of historical events on individuals' lives.
For a week Mr. R. Childan had been anxiously watching the mail. But the valuable shipment from the Rocky Mountain States had not arrived. As he opened up his store on Friday morning and saw only lette... - #2
Save:'The Years of Rice and Salt' by Kim Stanley Robinson is an alternate history novel that explores a world where the Black Plague decimates Europe, leading to a timeline where Asia and the Middle East become dominant powers. The story follows interconnected souls reincarnated throughout centuries, offering a unique perspective on how history unfolds with Buddhism and Islam at the forefront. Readers experience a vast narrative spanning different eras, from the devastation of the plague to the rise of new civilizations, all intricately woven together through the reincarnations of characters and the exploration of philosophical themes like life, death, and progress.
The book presents a thought-provoking premise of a world shaped by different cultural influences and historical events, offering a rich tapestry of interconnected stories that delve into themes of spirituality, reincarnation, and the complexities of human progress. Through vivid storytelling and intricate world-building, Kim Stanley Robinson presents a compelling vision of an alternate reality where familiar historical events take unexpected turns, inviting readers to contemplate the impact of different belief systems and societal structures on the course of civilization.
Now he had taken on the form of a small Mongol named Bold Bardash, horseman in the army of Temur the Lame. Son of a Tibetan salt trader and a Mongol innkeeper and spirit woman, and thus a traveller fr... - #3
Save:Set in an alternate world where Germany won World War II, "Fatherland" by Robert Harris is a gripping thriller that combines elements of a murder mystery with a detective novel. The protagonist, a disillusioned detective named March, navigates a dystopian post-WWII Germany to uncover dangerous secrets and solve a series of murders. The novel delves into themes of history, memory, and collective responsibility, offering a chilling portrayal of a society ruled by fear and conformity. Harris weaves real historical events with fiction seamlessly, creating a believable and intriguing narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The book presents a dark and unsettling vision of a world where Hitler's Third Reich emerged victorious, exploring the consequences of such an alternate history with skillful storytelling. The plot is intricate yet clear, offering a thought-provoking exploration of what could have been if history had taken a different turn. Harris's writing style effectively blends historical facts with thriller elements, creating a compelling and immersive reading experience that lingers in the minds of readers long after the final page.
THICK CLOUD HAD pressed down on Berlin all night, and now it was lingering into what passed for the morning. On the city’s western outskirts, plumes of rain drifted across the surface of Lake Havel, l... - #4
Save:Philip Roth's 'The Plot Against America' is an alternative history novel that explores a world where Charles Lindbergh, a Nazi sympathizer, defeats Franklin Roosevelt in the 1940 presidential election. The story follows a Jewish family living in Newark, primarily through the eyes of a young Philip Roth, as they navigate the rise of anti-Semitism and the consequences of Lindbergh's presidency. The writing style is described as compelling, with long but readable sentences that present an altered reality that is both familiar and chilling.
Fear presides over these memories, a perpetual fear. Of course no childhood is without its terrors, yet I wonder if I would have been a less frightened boy if Lindbergh hadn't been president or if I h... - #5
Save:1632 by Eric Flint is an alternative history novel that explores the premise of a small mining town from West Virginia being transported back in time to the midst of the Thirty Years War in Germany. The book delves into the challenges faced by the townspeople as they navigate this new reality, introducing concepts of democracy, religious freedom, and modern technology to a historical setting. The plot follows individual characters as they adapt to their surroundings and make decisions that impact the course of history. The writing style blends elements of military science fiction, alternate history, and fantasy, creating an engaging and action-packed narrative.
Mike ducked, hunched. James Nichols' reaction was more dramatic. "Incoming!" he yelped, flinging himself to the floor and covering his head with his arms. He seemed utterly oblivious to any possible d... - #6
Save: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.
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... - #7
Save:In the book "The Yiddish Policemen's Union" by Michael Chabon, readers are taken on a journey through an alternate history where Jews settled in Alaska after the failure of Israel in 1948. The story follows Detective Meyer Landsman as he investigates a murder in Sitka, Alaska, uncovering a complex web of government conspiracy, personal tales of loss, and the use of chess as a metaphor throughout the narrative. Chabon's writing style is described as rich with metaphor, featuring frequent use of Yiddish words, and showcasing a unique blend of noir elements and hard-boiled detective fiction.
The novel delves into themes of religion, chess, and the diverse population within the Jewish district of Sitka, Alaska. Chabon's intricate plot intertwines murder mystery elements with a deep exploration of character motivations, government intrigue, and the complexities of a society on the brink of change. The book is praised for its detailed world-building, engaging writing style, and the way it seamlessly blends elements of speculative fiction, detective fiction, and alternate history.
Nine months Landsman's been flopping at the Hotel Zamenhof without any of his fellow residents managing to get themselves murdered. Now somebody has put a bullet in the brain of the occupant of 208, a... - #8
Save:In "His Majesty's Dragon," author Naomi Novik presents an alternate history during the Napoleonic Wars where dragons play a crucial role in warfare. The story follows Captain Will Laurence, who unexpectedly becomes a dragon rider after capturing a French ship carrying a dragon egg. Laurence forms a deep bond with the dragon, Temeraire, as they navigate through the challenges of joining the British Aerial Corps and fighting alongside each other in aerial battles. The book seamlessly blends elements of historical fiction with fantasy, exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and adaptation to new circumstances.
THE DECK OF the French ship was slippery with blood, heaving in the choppy sea; a stroke might as easily bring down the man making it as the intended target. Laurence did not have time in the heat of ... - #9
Save:'Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell' by Susanna Clarke is a mesmerizing blend of historical fiction and fantasy, set in an alternate version of nineteenth century England. The story follows two magicians, Mr. Norrell and Jonathan Strange, as they delve into the restoration of magic in England and eventually aid in the country's victory in the Napoleonic Wars. The book intricately weaves together intricate world-building, fascinating characters, and a plot that unfolds slowly but steadily, keeping readers engaged through its detailed descriptions and rich storytelling style.
The writing style of 'Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell' is described as dense, detailed, and somewhat long-winded, reminiscent of nineteenth-century literature. The author, Susanna Clarke, creates a world that is both captivating and immersive, with elements of humor, pointed digs, and a cynical outlook on the usefulness of magic. The book is known for its historical accuracy, extensive footnotes that add depth to the narrative, and its ability to transport readers to a world where magic and reality intertwine seamlessly.
They were gentleman-magicians, which is to say they had never harmed any one by magic – nor ever done any one the slightest good. In fact, to own the truth, not one of these magicians had ever cast th... - #10
Save:Set in an alternative history where the Germans won World War II in 1941, "SS-GB" by Len Deighton follows Detective Superintendent Douglas Archer as he investigates a murder trial with national and political implications in Nazi-occupied Britain. The story delves into the complexities of life under German control, the resistance movement, and the power struggles between different factions, all against the backdrop of a grim and oppressive reality in 1941 London.
The other man busied himself with the papers on his desk and made no comment. He thumped the rubber stamp into the pad and then on to the docket, ‘Scotland Yard. 14 Nov. 1941’. It was incredible that ...
