Books matching: what if scenario
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- #1
Save:'Part of Your World' in the 'A Twisted Tale' series by Liz Braswell is a dark twist on the classic Disney tale of 'The Little Mermaid'. The story explores an alternate reality where Ursula is victorious, Ariel remains voiceless and is now Queen of the Sea, and Eric is under a spell. The plot follows Ariel's journey to rescue her father, King Triton, defeat Ursula, and restore peace to both the land and sea. The book is told from multiple perspectives, providing a deeper insight into well-known characters like Ariel, Eric, and Ursula, while introducing new characters that add depth and heart to the story. The writing style is described as engaging, with a well-paced narrative that keeps the reader turning the pages eagerly.
It was a beautiful day, almost sparkling. The pines weren’t yet brittle from late summer heat and the deciduous trees were in full glory, their dark green leaves crackling in the wind. The mountains w...
(Also, see 15 recommendations for the series A Twisted Tale ) - #2
Save:"Heads You Win" by Jeffrey Archer is a gripping novel set in 1968 in Leningrad, Russia, where Alexander Karpenko's life takes a drastic turn after his father's assassination by the KGB. The story follows Alex and his mother as they escape Russia, facing the choice of stowing away on a ship to either the USA or Great Britain. The novel explores two parallel storylines, showcasing the outcomes of each choice made by Alex and his mother, with a childhood friend, Vladimir, reappearing in both scenarios. The book is praised for its intricate plot, historical references, and the brilliant juxtaposition of the main characters' lives in different countries over three decades.
‘No. Once Zenit F.C. reached the semi-finals, there was never any chance of someone like me getting a ticket. But surely as your father’s the docks’ supervisor, you’ll automatically be allocated a cou... - #3
Save:'Gettysburg' in the series 'Civil War/Gettysburg' by Newt Gingrich and William R. Forstchen presents an alternative fictional view of the US Civil War, focusing on the events surrounding the Battle of Gettysburg. The authors explore hypothetical scenarios where key decisions by historical figures like General Lee and General Meade lead to drastic changes in the outcome of the battle and the war. The writing style seamlessly blends fiction with factual events, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged and intrigued about the possibilities of how history could have unfolded differently.
The boy finished. The song had struck a nerve. More than one of the men coughed to hide the tears; there was a forced laugh, then another song; it sounded like “The Girl I Left Behind Me,” but the lyr... - #4
Save:Laurent Binet's 'Civilizations' is a captivating work of historical fiction that explores an alternative timeline where the New World conquers the Old World. The book delves into the consequences of this shift in power dynamics, imagining encounters between historical figures such as Atahualpa, Charles the Fifth, and Martin Luther. Binet weaves a rich tapestry of cultures, presenting a world where the Vikings, the Inca, and Spanish authors play pivotal roles in reshaping the history of Europe and the Americas. The writing style combines elements of satire, playfulness, and serious questions about tolerance and governance, keeping readers engaged throughout the thought-provoking narrative.
There was a woman named Aud the Deep-Minded, daughter of Ketill Flatnose, who had been queen. She was the widow of Olaf the White, the warrior-king of Ireland. Upon the death of her husband, she trave... - #5
Save:'Making History' by Stephen Fry is an alternative history novel that explores the consequences of preventing Adolf Hitler from being born. The story follows Michael Young, a PhD student at Cambridge, and Professor Leo Zuckerman as they attempt to change history by ensuring Hitler's non-existence. However, their plan goes awry, leading to a world where a different authoritarian leader rises to power. The narrative combines elements of science fiction, comedy, and time travel, with a writing style that alternates between novel and screenplay format.
It starts with a dream. This story, which can start everywhere and nowhere like a circle, starts, for me — and it is after all, my story and no one else’s, never could be anyone else’s but mine — it s... - #6
Save:"A Whole New World" in the series "A Twisted Tale" by Liz Braswell is a reimagining of the classic Disney movie Aladdin, where a small detail is altered, leading Aladdin to be trapped in the Cave of Wonders without the lamp. Jafar gains control of the genie and sets out to fulfill his desires, causing Aladdin and Princess Jasmine to team up with a network of thieves to start a revolution and save their city. The story closely follows the movie's plot until the divergence point, offering a deeper look into the characters' minds during familiar scenes, though lacking in character development and featuring a more mature and darker twist than the original movie.
A high white moon cast its light on the city below as brightly as the sun was said to shine in northern countries. White mud-brick buildings gleamed like pebbles from a faraway beach. The golden onion... - #7
Save:'The Third World War: August 1985' by John W. Hackett is a work of prescient fiction that depicts a hypothetical Third World War erupting in 1985. The plot revolves around the political tensions and military conflicts between NATO nations and the Warsaw Pact, set in the backdrop of the 1980s era. The writing style is described as fantastically written, with believable stories of combat and political maneuvering among nations, making it a compelling read for those interested in Cold War history and military scenarios. However, some readers find the book more of a thought-provoking piece rather than a traditional novel, as it delves into alternative history without reference to actual social divisions and power struggles.
large armored formation passed through inter-German border Zero Three Zero Five Zulu approximate brigade in size. Composed of Papa Tango 76s, Bravo Tango Romeo 62s, and Tango 72s. Inform Black Horse S... - #8
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... - #9
Save:'Rodham' by Curtis Sittenfeld is an alternative history novel exploring the premise of Hillary Rodham Clinton not marrying Bill Clinton. The book delves into the imagined relationship between Hillary and Bill at Yale Law School, where they fall in love but ultimately part ways due to Bill's womanizing behavior. The story follows Hillary's life as a senator, her political ambitions, and a fictionalized version of the 2016 election, incorporating real-life events and characters like Donald Trump.
THE FIRST TIME I SAW him, I thought he looked like a lion. He was six foot two, though I knew then only that he was tall. And in fact, his height seemed even greater because he was big-tall, not skinn... - #10
Save:'Back When We Were Grownups' by Anne Tyler follows the story of Rebecca Davitch, a 50-year-old widow who reflects on her life choices and the unexpected path she has taken. Rebecca finds herself questioning her role as the matriarch of her late husband's family, caring for her stepdaughters and daughter while managing the family business of hosting parties. As she reconnects with her past and old relationships, she contemplates whether the life she is living is truly the one she was meant for, leading to a journey of self-discovery and introspection. The narrative delves into themes of identity, family dynamics, and the complexities of navigating middle age.
The writing style of 'Back When We Were Grownups' is described as typical Anne Tyler, focusing on everyday people and their relationships with sympathy and depth. The novel presents a character-driven story with well-drawn, quirky characters and explores the nuances of family interactions and personal growth. Through Rebecca's journey of self-exploration and reflection, the book offers a mix of humor, introspection, and poignant moments that resonate with readers.
She was fifty-three years old by then—a grandmother. Wide and soft and dimpled, with two short wings of dry, fair hair flaring almost horizontally from a center part. Laugh lines at the corners of her...
