Books Like...

Another Girl, Another Planet by Lou Antonelli is a science fiction novel set in an alternate timeline where the Cold War never occurred, leading to a joint Soviet NATO mission on Mars and a thriving Moon settlement. The story follows a man named Dave Shuster who uncovers a plan involving advanced robotics to overthrow the established order on Mars, where the future of humanity hangs in the balance. Through an unreliable narrator, the reader is taken on a journey of mystery, love, political intrigue, and the complexities of an alternate history filled with real-world characters in different professions.

In "The Tranquillity Alternative" by Allen M. Steele, set in an alternate history where the United States embarks on a mission to the moon to destroy nuclear missiles hidden there, a hero must uncover a plot to misuse the missiles. The novel weaves together elements of space exploration, political intrigue, and thriller, unfolding through interviews and news stories that reveal a world where space exploration has advanced but taken a step back politically. With a unique spin on science fiction, the book explores the consequences of losing interest in space exploration, offering a thought-provoking narrative that balances between slow-paced introspection and page-turning excitement.

In an alternative past where Britain surrendered to Nazi Germany in 1940, 'Dominion' by C.J. Sansom unfolds in 1952, depicting a smog-bound London under German rule. The narrative follows civil servant David Fitzgerald, a spy for the Resistance, who navigates through a world of collaborationist governments, corrupt politicians, and a British Resistance movement led by an underground Winston Churchill. The story delves into espionage, political intrigue, and the struggle to prevent a nuclear weapons secret from falling into Nazi hands, all set against the backdrop of a grim and oppressive society.

Sansom's writing style in 'Dominion' is reminiscent of an old black and white British film, evoking a sense of austerity and oppression in a Nazi-dominated England. The novel weaves together elements of historical fiction and alternate history, exploring themes of nationalism, resistance, and the consequences of political appeasement. Through meticulous details and well-researched world-building, Sansom crafts a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of loyalty, betrayal, and the fight for freedom in a society on the brink of collapse.

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.

In 'The Impeachment of Abraham Lincoln' by Stephen L. Carter, the author presents an alternate history where Lincoln survives Booth's assassination attempt and faces an impeachment trial for war crimes. The novel delves into the intrigues among radical Abolitionists, former Confederates seeking revenge, and the spectrum of black responses to emancipation. The book is praised for its deep research into historical details, creating a vivid backdrop of the wealthy elite, black population integration struggles, and the political landscape of the time.

The writing style of the book is noted for its blend of fictitious elements with reality-based material, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged. The character development, particularly of Abigail Canner, a black woman working on Lincoln's legal defense team, is highlighted as a strong point in the novel, adding depth and realism to the story.

'American Front' in the series 'The Great War' by Harry Turtledove delves into an alternate history where the United States is split into the United States of America and the Confederate States of America, leading to a scenario where the First World War starts in Europe and draws the opposing sides in the Americas into the battle. The plot follows the ongoing war, side stories such as the growth of the Socialist Party in the USA, the beginnings of an African American revolt in the CSA, and the lives of civilians during the conflict. The writing style is engaging, with short snapshots of main characters ensuring readers keep turning the pages.

'Weapons of Choice' by John Birmingham is an alternate history novel where a 21st-century naval task force is transported back to 1942 in the Pacific. The story explores the interactions between mid-20th century Americans and their future counterparts, as well as the axis and allies. The book delves into the impact of technological advancements and cultural differences on the unfolding events, setting the stage for a series of compelling stories in this alternate world.

In an alternate history where the Spanish Armada triumphs in 1588, 'Ruled Britannia' by Harry Turtledove explores a London under Spanish control. The story follows the struggles of England under the Spanish Inquisition, with a focus on William Shakespeare as a key figure in a plot to inspire a revolt against the Spanish occupiers. The book delves into the political intrigue of the time, showcasing the tensions between Shakespeare and a Spanish playwright, Lt. Lope de Vega, as they navigate loyalty to their respective monarchs while collaborating on a dangerous game of rebellion.

The narrative of 'Ruled Britannia' is filled with detailed portrayals of late 16th-century London under Spanish dominion, offering a realistic and grim depiction of life under occupation. The book cleverly incorporates Shakespearean quotes and themes, immersing readers in the world of Elizabethan theater amidst a backdrop of religious conflicts and power struggles. Through the eyes of Shakespeare and Lope de Vega, the story unfolds with a mix of historical accuracy and fictional intrigue, culminating in a tale of betrayal, loyalty, and the fight for freedom in a society rife with oppression and deception.

Hunter's Run is a sci-fi quasi space adventure written by George R.R. Martin, Gardner Dozois, and Daniel Abraham. The story follows Ramon Espejo, a down-on-his-luck prospector who finds himself fleeing to an unexplored and desolate area on the planet of Sao Paulo after committing a crime. His discovery of aliens in this area sets off a chain of events that lead to a thrilling and engaging plot with unexpected twists and turns. The writing style is described as tight and well-done, with a nice flow from start to finish, creating a vivid picture of the alien world and its inhabitants.

In a world where Nazi Germany emerged victorious in World War II, 'In the Presence of Mine Enemies' by Harry Turtledove explores the lives of hidden Jews in Berlin, striving to survive under the oppressive regime by blending in as perfect Aryans. The novel follows the Gimpel family, as they navigate the daily struggles of concealing their identity, passing on their heritage in secret, and living in constant fear of exposure. Turtledove's writing style intricately weaves together the intricate details of a society where one wrong move could lead to devastating consequences, creating a tense and psychological narrative that delves into the complexities of living under a totalitarian regime.

As the story unfolds, Turtledove masterfully builds a world where the remnants of Jewish families must adapt and survive in a society that seeks their destruction. The book delves into the psychological pressure, casual racism, and constant threat faced by the main family, offering a poignant exploration of the challenges and sacrifices required to maintain their hidden identity in a world dominated by Nazi ideology.