Genre: Alternate History
Setting: In an alternate version of Europe and the Mediterranean, 115 years after the third Punic War. A version of history in which Rome was defeated by the Carthaginians .
First Sentence: Behind them were the seven hills and the sacred city of Quirinus.
This novel is an example of alternate history. The author choses a point of departure from our historical time line. then the author tells how history might have happened.
In this novel, the point of departure is at the end of the third Punic War. At this time, in our history Rome utterly destroyed the Carthaginian empire. In this version, Hannibal defeats the Romans and sends them into exile.
So, the Romans move north and settle in lands that once belonged to the barbarian hordes. While in exile, the Romans continue their civilization and prepare for the day they when can conquer the Carthaginians and return to Rome.
After 115 years, envoys are sent out to assess the situation, and determine if the time has come for the conquest of Rome.
Is it time for the conquest to begin?
This was an okay book. Once the change of timeline has occurred, the novel reads like a normal novel about Rome.
I you like reading about Rome and Romans, check out this book.
Showing posts with label Alternate History. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Alternate History. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 25, 2017
Sunday, November 27, 2016
Destroyermen: Blood on the Water By Taylor Anderson
Genre: Alternate History
Setting: During the World War II time frame, on a different version of Earth.
Blood on the Water is the eleventh novel in Anderson's Destroyermen series.
In this novel the author picks up the story where he left off in the previous novels. Captain Reddy, his destroyermen, and their allies are spread across the globe. In the East they are battling the minions of the Holy Dominion. In the West, they fight the lizard-like Grik and the insane Japanese leader Kurokawa.
In this episode of the series, we learn more about the other human factions that inhabit this version of Earth. Some are enemies of the Dominion. Some are enemies of the Grik. And some have nefarious objectives which make them the political enemies of all the sides of the war.
Anderson uses a large cast of characters to tell his story. Keeping track of so many characters must be a challenge for the author. To help the reader, Anderson has included a ten page longest of characters. When the author introduces a new character, or reintroduces a character from past novels, he does an adequate job of providing the exposition needed to identify the character. With so many characters, so much exposition could become tedious. But the author deals with the exposition quickly and gets us back to the action.
I have really enjoyed the Destroyermen series. The plot moves along briskly and there is lots of action.
I strongly advise readers to start at the beginning and read the novels in sequence. It looks like it's going to be a long ride.
Setting: During the World War II time frame, on a different version of Earth.
Blood on the Water is the eleventh novel in Anderson's Destroyermen series.
In this novel the author picks up the story where he left off in the previous novels. Captain Reddy, his destroyermen, and their allies are spread across the globe. In the East they are battling the minions of the Holy Dominion. In the West, they fight the lizard-like Grik and the insane Japanese leader Kurokawa.
In this episode of the series, we learn more about the other human factions that inhabit this version of Earth. Some are enemies of the Dominion. Some are enemies of the Grik. And some have nefarious objectives which make them the political enemies of all the sides of the war.
Anderson uses a large cast of characters to tell his story. Keeping track of so many characters must be a challenge for the author. To help the reader, Anderson has included a ten page longest of characters. When the author introduces a new character, or reintroduces a character from past novels, he does an adequate job of providing the exposition needed to identify the character. With so many characters, so much exposition could become tedious. But the author deals with the exposition quickly and gets us back to the action.
I have really enjoyed the Destroyermen series. The plot moves along briskly and there is lots of action.
I strongly advise readers to start at the beginning and read the novels in sequence. It looks like it's going to be a long ride.
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
The Big Switch by Harry Turtledove
Genre: Alternate History
Setting: An alternate version of World War II, in 1940 and 1941.
First Sentence: Vaclav Jezek slogged up a dirt track in Eastern France.
This novel is the third in Turtledove's War That Came Early series. This series currently runs to six novels.
The point of departure from our timeline is 1938. What if English Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain stood up to Hitler rather than attempting to appease him? In the author's view, the war would have begun early, and the European nations would have been unprepared for the ensuing war.
Midway through this novel the author gives us another important shift from our timeline. In 1941, German official Rudolph Hess flew solo to Scotland in an attempt negotiate a peace between England and Germany.
What if the English government accepted his proposal?
This is the big switch referred to in the title of this novel. In the middle of the war England and France broker a peace with Germany. Then they ally themselves with Germany to fight the Russians on the eastern front.
In this novel Turtledove uses his usual style of story telling. We follow a group of soldiers, sailors, airmen, and non-combatants. The author relates different episodes in each character's life. Through their eyes we see how the was has impacted them. Rather than getting the big picture view of the war from the point of the generals and other leaders, we experience the "boots on the ground" view of the war from those on the front lines.
For me, this was an OK read. Keeping track of the characters was a challenge. I wish the author had included a dramatis personae to aid the reader in keeping track of the characters.
If you are interested in this novel, I suggest that you read them in order.
Setting: An alternate version of World War II, in 1940 and 1941.
First Sentence: Vaclav Jezek slogged up a dirt track in Eastern France.
This novel is the third in Turtledove's War That Came Early series. This series currently runs to six novels.
The point of departure from our timeline is 1938. What if English Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain stood up to Hitler rather than attempting to appease him? In the author's view, the war would have begun early, and the European nations would have been unprepared for the ensuing war.
Midway through this novel the author gives us another important shift from our timeline. In 1941, German official Rudolph Hess flew solo to Scotland in an attempt negotiate a peace between England and Germany.
What if the English government accepted his proposal?
This is the big switch referred to in the title of this novel. In the middle of the war England and France broker a peace with Germany. Then they ally themselves with Germany to fight the Russians on the eastern front.
In this novel Turtledove uses his usual style of story telling. We follow a group of soldiers, sailors, airmen, and non-combatants. The author relates different episodes in each character's life. Through their eyes we see how the was has impacted them. Rather than getting the big picture view of the war from the point of the generals and other leaders, we experience the "boots on the ground" view of the war from those on the front lines.
For me, this was an OK read. Keeping track of the characters was a challenge. I wish the author had included a dramatis personae to aid the reader in keeping track of the characters.
If you are interested in this novel, I suggest that you read them in order.
Saturday, January 17, 2015
Himmler's War by Robert Conroy
Genre: Alternate History
Setting: The European Theater of WWII, In the Summer of 1944.
First Sentence: The B17G bomber was almost universally referred to as the "Flying Fortress," and for good reason.
Alternate history is one of my favorite genres of fiction. In these novels, the author chooses an interesting point of divergence from our historical timeline. Then, the author weaves a tale to show us how history might have turned out differently.
In my opinion well written alternate history novels read like historical fiction. The changes in the timeline are what holds the reader's attention. Robert Conroy's novels are examples of well written alternate history novels.
In this novel, Conroy explores what might have happened if Hitler had been killed by an act of war during the summer of 1944. Hitler was known to be an irrational reader. With Hitler dead, Germany might have been lead by someone more rational. As the title suggests, that leader might have been Heinrich Himmler. Obviously, Himmler would have made different choices.
What would have happened with Himmler in command of Germany?
I enjoyed this novel. Conroy has an easy to read style which make the book fun to read. His characters and plot lines are believable.
If you're into alternate history or military fiction you're sure to enjoy this novel.
Setting: The European Theater of WWII, In the Summer of 1944.
First Sentence: The B17G bomber was almost universally referred to as the "Flying Fortress," and for good reason.
Alternate history is one of my favorite genres of fiction. In these novels, the author chooses an interesting point of divergence from our historical timeline. Then, the author weaves a tale to show us how history might have turned out differently.
In my opinion well written alternate history novels read like historical fiction. The changes in the timeline are what holds the reader's attention. Robert Conroy's novels are examples of well written alternate history novels.
In this novel, Conroy explores what might have happened if Hitler had been killed by an act of war during the summer of 1944. Hitler was known to be an irrational reader. With Hitler dead, Germany might have been lead by someone more rational. As the title suggests, that leader might have been Heinrich Himmler. Obviously, Himmler would have made different choices.
What would have happened with Himmler in command of Germany?
I enjoyed this novel. Conroy has an easy to read style which make the book fun to read. His characters and plot lines are believable.
If you're into alternate history or military fiction you're sure to enjoy this novel.
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Rising Sun by Robert Conroy
Genre: Alternate History, Military Fiction
Setting: The Pacific Theater during an alternate version of World War II.
FYI: Some adult content.
First Sentence: Lieutenant Tim Dane, USNR, couldn't sleep.
After the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, the U. S. Navy was reeling. Although many of battle ships had been damaged or destroyed, the Navy still had its aircraft carriers. Six months after Pearl Harbor the Navy dealt the Japanese Navy a stunning blow. In its first naval defeat since 1863, Japan lost four of its carriers at the Battle of Midway.
Japan did not have the manpower or resources to fight a war of attrition with the United States. The inevitable result of the battle ultimately was the defeat of Japan.
What if the U. S. Navy had lost the Battle of Midway?
This is the point of departure for Conroy's novel. In this alternate scenario, the U. S. Navy suffers a massive defeat. The American naval forces retreat to California. There they brace for the inevitable bombardment, and possible invasion.
Through the experiences of a cast of characters, Conroy shows us how the battle for the Pacific might have been fought. From invasion in Alaska, to air raids in California, Conroy describes exciting and realistic battles on land, in the air, and at sea.
Eventually, the cultural differences between Japan and America determine the ultimate victor in this alternate version of the war in the Pacific.
I really enjoyed this novel. For me it was a real page turner. The author moved the plot along with plenty of action and the right amount of description. In the end, it was a very enjoyable read.
I am a big fan of Conroy's alternate history novels. Each of them are stand alone tales. And all of them are enjoyable reads.
Setting: The Pacific Theater during an alternate version of World War II.
FYI: Some adult content.
First Sentence: Lieutenant Tim Dane, USNR, couldn't sleep.
After the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, the U. S. Navy was reeling. Although many of battle ships had been damaged or destroyed, the Navy still had its aircraft carriers. Six months after Pearl Harbor the Navy dealt the Japanese Navy a stunning blow. In its first naval defeat since 1863, Japan lost four of its carriers at the Battle of Midway.
Japan did not have the manpower or resources to fight a war of attrition with the United States. The inevitable result of the battle ultimately was the defeat of Japan.
What if the U. S. Navy had lost the Battle of Midway?
This is the point of departure for Conroy's novel. In this alternate scenario, the U. S. Navy suffers a massive defeat. The American naval forces retreat to California. There they brace for the inevitable bombardment, and possible invasion.
Through the experiences of a cast of characters, Conroy shows us how the battle for the Pacific might have been fought. From invasion in Alaska, to air raids in California, Conroy describes exciting and realistic battles on land, in the air, and at sea.
Eventually, the cultural differences between Japan and America determine the ultimate victor in this alternate version of the war in the Pacific.
I really enjoyed this novel. For me it was a real page turner. The author moved the plot along with plenty of action and the right amount of description. In the end, it was a very enjoyable read.
I am a big fan of Conroy's alternate history novels. Each of them are stand alone tales. And all of them are enjoyable reads.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Destroyermen: Deadly Shores by Taylor Anderson
Genre: Alternate History
Setting: An alternate version of Earth during the World War II era, the action takes place mainly in the Indian and South Pacific oceans.
First Sentence: Ten days after the great battle that drove General Hisashi Kurosawa and the tattered remnants of his once-mighty fleet from Madras, only two of his little squadron of Grik-built cruisers, Nachi and Tatsuma, remained to steam into the port of Cochin.
This novel is the ninth in Anderson's Destroyermen alternate history series.
During a fierce sea battle, the USS Walker steamed into a strange storm cloud, and emerged into an Earth very different than the one she had left. Soon the destroyer and her crew were embroiled in a war between the peaceful sentient mammals called Lemurians, and the vicious reptilian creatures called the Grik.
As the Destroyermen novels have progressed, we have learned that throughout history different groups of humans have some how been transported to this alternate Earth. There have been 15th century Spanish missionaries, 18th century English explorers as well as World War I Germans and a World War II Japanese battleship.
In this installment of the series, the author reveals that some of the humans have arrived from different versions of Earth, with different time lines.
As the novel begins, the Allied forces of Lemurians and humans are now strong enough to take the fight to the homelands of their two main enemies. To the East is the Holy Dominion. The Dominion is a culture formed from the blend of the Spanish Inquisition with the ancient Aztec religions. To the West is the Empire of the Griks. The Griks are the mortal enemies of the Lemurians. Until the Destroyermen arrived, the Lemurians had no chance of defeating the Grik.
Captain Reddy, the commander of the Walker, has proposed a raid on the Grik capital reminiscent of General Doolittle's raid on Tokyo during World War II. Although he views the plan as a raid, the Lemurians perceive the raid as a chance to regain their ancient ancestral home.
Will the Allied forces be victorious in their attacks?
As they explore this alternate Earth, what other groups of humans will they encounter?
In my opinion, this novel is a satisfying return to the Destroyerman universe. This is the offensive battle that we have been waiting for. The grand battle scene is exciting with lots of action. And once again Anderson's great character, Silva, goes off on a heroic expedition.
I enjoyed this book. And since the author dropped many tantalizing hints for the surprises in upcoming installments, I eagerly await the next novel.
If you are interested in reading the Destroyermen series, I strongly suggest that you read them in order.
Setting: An alternate version of Earth during the World War II era, the action takes place mainly in the Indian and South Pacific oceans.
First Sentence: Ten days after the great battle that drove General Hisashi Kurosawa and the tattered remnants of his once-mighty fleet from Madras, only two of his little squadron of Grik-built cruisers, Nachi and Tatsuma, remained to steam into the port of Cochin.
This novel is the ninth in Anderson's Destroyermen alternate history series.
During a fierce sea battle, the USS Walker steamed into a strange storm cloud, and emerged into an Earth very different than the one she had left. Soon the destroyer and her crew were embroiled in a war between the peaceful sentient mammals called Lemurians, and the vicious reptilian creatures called the Grik.
As the Destroyermen novels have progressed, we have learned that throughout history different groups of humans have some how been transported to this alternate Earth. There have been 15th century Spanish missionaries, 18th century English explorers as well as World War I Germans and a World War II Japanese battleship.
In this installment of the series, the author reveals that some of the humans have arrived from different versions of Earth, with different time lines.
As the novel begins, the Allied forces of Lemurians and humans are now strong enough to take the fight to the homelands of their two main enemies. To the East is the Holy Dominion. The Dominion is a culture formed from the blend of the Spanish Inquisition with the ancient Aztec religions. To the West is the Empire of the Griks. The Griks are the mortal enemies of the Lemurians. Until the Destroyermen arrived, the Lemurians had no chance of defeating the Grik.
Captain Reddy, the commander of the Walker, has proposed a raid on the Grik capital reminiscent of General Doolittle's raid on Tokyo during World War II. Although he views the plan as a raid, the Lemurians perceive the raid as a chance to regain their ancient ancestral home.
Will the Allied forces be victorious in their attacks?
As they explore this alternate Earth, what other groups of humans will they encounter?
In my opinion, this novel is a satisfying return to the Destroyerman universe. This is the offensive battle that we have been waiting for. The grand battle scene is exciting with lots of action. And once again Anderson's great character, Silva, goes off on a heroic expedition.
I enjoyed this book. And since the author dropped many tantalizing hints for the surprises in upcoming installments, I eagerly await the next novel.
If you are interested in reading the Destroyermen series, I strongly suggest that you read them in order.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Destroyermen: Storm Surge by Taylor Anderson
Genre: Alternate History
Setting: In an alternate version of Earth during the World War II time period.
First Sentence: Lieutenant Commander Matthew Reddy, High Chief of the Amer-i-caan Clan, Supreme Commander (by acclimation) of All Forces United Beneath (or beside) the Banner of the Trees, and Captain of the old Asiatic Fleet four-stacker destroyer USS Walker (DD-163, loved baseball.
This novel is the seventh in Anderson's Destroyermen alternate history series.
The series begins in the Western Pacific at the very start of World War Two. The USS Walker, attempting to evade a Japanese battleship, enters a strange storm cloud. The ship emerges in an alternate version of Earth. There they become involved in a war between two sentient species: the peaceful lemur-like Lemurians and the vicious, reptilian Griks.
At first the destroyermen believe that they are the only humans in this alternate world. They soon discover that the are several different groups of humans who have arrived at different times throughout Earth's history.
As the series has progressed, the scope of the "known" world has widened. At the beginning of this novel the destroyermen have encountered humans from the South American continent westward across the Pacific and Indian oceans to Africa.
Central to the plot of this novel is the battle against the evil Grik. The novel begins slowly as the author reintroduces us to the characters of the novel, where they are, and what they are doing. The Americans and their allies are gathering ships, planes and other technologies for a grand attack. Led by the traitorous Japanese admiral Kukokawa the Grik have been improving their weapons and battle tactics.
When the action of the battle begins, the pace of the novel picks up. Soon the pages fly by. Victory is not assured. It takes the might of the combined allied forces, along with some interesting surprises, to determine the outcome of the battle.
At the end of the novel, Anderson leaves us some interesting clues about several new human, lemurian, and reptilian cultures. Some may be friendly to the allied cause. Some may be friendly to the Grik cause. And some may have their own ideas about conquering the world.
I read this book voraciously. I like Anderson's writing style. The battle scenes are especially interesting to read. I can't wait for the next novel of the series.
If you are interested in the Destroyerman series, I strongly suggest that you begin with the first book: "Into the Storm". There are so many characters that starting in the middle of the series might be confusing.
It's a great well-written series. Check it out!
Check out my eBook!
Setting: In an alternate version of Earth during the World War II time period.
First Sentence: Lieutenant Commander Matthew Reddy, High Chief of the Amer-i-caan Clan, Supreme Commander (by acclimation) of All Forces United Beneath (or beside) the Banner of the Trees, and Captain of the old Asiatic Fleet four-stacker destroyer USS Walker (DD-163, loved baseball.
This novel is the seventh in Anderson's Destroyermen alternate history series.
The series begins in the Western Pacific at the very start of World War Two. The USS Walker, attempting to evade a Japanese battleship, enters a strange storm cloud. The ship emerges in an alternate version of Earth. There they become involved in a war between two sentient species: the peaceful lemur-like Lemurians and the vicious, reptilian Griks.
At first the destroyermen believe that they are the only humans in this alternate world. They soon discover that the are several different groups of humans who have arrived at different times throughout Earth's history.
As the series has progressed, the scope of the "known" world has widened. At the beginning of this novel the destroyermen have encountered humans from the South American continent westward across the Pacific and Indian oceans to Africa.
Central to the plot of this novel is the battle against the evil Grik. The novel begins slowly as the author reintroduces us to the characters of the novel, where they are, and what they are doing. The Americans and their allies are gathering ships, planes and other technologies for a grand attack. Led by the traitorous Japanese admiral Kukokawa the Grik have been improving their weapons and battle tactics.
When the action of the battle begins, the pace of the novel picks up. Soon the pages fly by. Victory is not assured. It takes the might of the combined allied forces, along with some interesting surprises, to determine the outcome of the battle.
At the end of the novel, Anderson leaves us some interesting clues about several new human, lemurian, and reptilian cultures. Some may be friendly to the allied cause. Some may be friendly to the Grik cause. And some may have their own ideas about conquering the world.
I read this book voraciously. I like Anderson's writing style. The battle scenes are especially interesting to read. I can't wait for the next novel of the series.
If you are interested in the Destroyerman series, I strongly suggest that you begin with the first book: "Into the Storm". There are so many characters that starting in the middle of the series might be confusing.
It's a great well-written series. Check it out!
Check out my eBook!
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
The Tears of the Sun by S. M. Stirling
Genre: Fantasy, Alternate History
Setting: A fantasy version of Western North America
First Sentence: Rudi Mackenzie -
Artos the First, High King of Montival though yet to be formally crowned - finished the last crusty bite of the ham sandwich, savoring the smoky taste of the cured meat and sharp cheese, and washed it down with the last swallow in the clay crock of beer.
This novel is the eleventh in Stirling's Change series.
Twenty-five years ago and event occurred which changed life on Earth forever. The people living on or near the island of Nantucket were transported thousands of years into the past. Their struggles to survive formed the first three novels of Stirling's Change series.
For the rest of the planet, the laws of physics were drastically changed. Almost all technology created after the Industrial Revolution were rendered useless. The struggles of humans to survive and adapt to a new reality form the plot of the next three novels in the series.
In the ensuing four novels, the plot follows characters born after the change event. They trek across the North American continent to the island of Nantucket. There they encounter powerful supernatural forces. And Rudi acquires the magical Sword of the Lady. In these novels we learn that there is an evil which wishes to destroy the powers of good. As Rudi Mackenzie and his band return to Montival they gather warriors to join them in the fight.
In this novel, the focus of the plot has returned to the Kingdom of Montival. Rudi is now recognized as the High King. He possesses the powerful Sword of the Lady. It is believed that the sword will give Rudi and his followers an advantage in the decisive battle against the evil Church United and Triumphant (CUT) and its evil prophet. Montival is marshaling all of its forces to fight against the evil CUT. And even the most skeptical leaders of Montival have come to realize how truly evil and supernatural the CUT and its prophet are.
The first half of this novel was a struggle for me to get through. The novel is heavy on exposition as the author reintroduces us to a host of characters who have been waiting in the wings for the last four novels of the series. In the last half of the story, the action picks up, and the book becomes more enjoyable to read.
Stirling uses a third person omniscient point of view to relate the story. One of his devices is to reveal not only the thoughts of his characters but their inner self-talk. He uses this device to deliver much of the exposition. I found this device to be somewhat distracting.
The author moves back and forth between characters. He also has his characters relate in flashbacks action that occurred when the focus of the plot was on the quest for the sword. For me, the large cast of characters and the number of flashbacks made the plot a bit confusing at times.
Stirling can be heavy on detailed description. I found the detailed descriptions of entrees and side dishes at every meal, of each character's apparel, of the many heraldic coats of arms, and of the swept out and beflowered fireplaces (including a list of every bloom on display) in each baron's solar to be unnecessary.
I didn't dislike this book. For me this novel felt like a set up for the finale. The author is putting all his characters in place for the final battle. And, I will be reading the next book to find out what happens next.
If you are interested in this book, I suggest you go back to Dies the Fire and read the books in order.
Check out my eBook!
Setting: A fantasy version of Western North America
First Sentence: Rudi Mackenzie -
Artos the First, High King of Montival though yet to be formally crowned - finished the last crusty bite of the ham sandwich, savoring the smoky taste of the cured meat and sharp cheese, and washed it down with the last swallow in the clay crock of beer.
This novel is the eleventh in Stirling's Change series.
Twenty-five years ago and event occurred which changed life on Earth forever. The people living on or near the island of Nantucket were transported thousands of years into the past. Their struggles to survive formed the first three novels of Stirling's Change series.
For the rest of the planet, the laws of physics were drastically changed. Almost all technology created after the Industrial Revolution were rendered useless. The struggles of humans to survive and adapt to a new reality form the plot of the next three novels in the series.
In the ensuing four novels, the plot follows characters born after the change event. They trek across the North American continent to the island of Nantucket. There they encounter powerful supernatural forces. And Rudi acquires the magical Sword of the Lady. In these novels we learn that there is an evil which wishes to destroy the powers of good. As Rudi Mackenzie and his band return to Montival they gather warriors to join them in the fight.
In this novel, the focus of the plot has returned to the Kingdom of Montival. Rudi is now recognized as the High King. He possesses the powerful Sword of the Lady. It is believed that the sword will give Rudi and his followers an advantage in the decisive battle against the evil Church United and Triumphant (CUT) and its evil prophet. Montival is marshaling all of its forces to fight against the evil CUT. And even the most skeptical leaders of Montival have come to realize how truly evil and supernatural the CUT and its prophet are.
The first half of this novel was a struggle for me to get through. The novel is heavy on exposition as the author reintroduces us to a host of characters who have been waiting in the wings for the last four novels of the series. In the last half of the story, the action picks up, and the book becomes more enjoyable to read.
Stirling uses a third person omniscient point of view to relate the story. One of his devices is to reveal not only the thoughts of his characters but their inner self-talk. He uses this device to deliver much of the exposition. I found this device to be somewhat distracting.
The author moves back and forth between characters. He also has his characters relate in flashbacks action that occurred when the focus of the plot was on the quest for the sword. For me, the large cast of characters and the number of flashbacks made the plot a bit confusing at times.
Stirling can be heavy on detailed description. I found the detailed descriptions of entrees and side dishes at every meal, of each character's apparel, of the many heraldic coats of arms, and of the swept out and beflowered fireplaces (including a list of every bloom on display) in each baron's solar to be unnecessary.
I didn't dislike this book. For me this novel felt like a set up for the finale. The author is putting all his characters in place for the final battle. And, I will be reading the next book to find out what happens next.
If you are interested in this book, I suggest you go back to Dies the Fire and read the books in order.
Check out my eBook!
Sunday, October 28, 2012
West and East: The War that Came Early by Harry Turtledove
Genre: Alternate History
Setting: Earth, during the late 1930's in an alternate version of World War II
First Sentence: Theo Hosbach lay on a con in a military hospital in Cambrai.
This novel is the second in Harry Turtledove's "The War that Came Early" series.
In this version of World War II, Hitler attacked France in 1938. Because Germany was not quite ready for war, the Blitzkrieg bogged down. England, France and England are mired in a trench war reminiscent of World War I. On the eastern front, Germany and Poland are allies fighting against the Soviet Union. In Asia, Japan and the Soviet Union are at war. Japan has conquered China. The United States is neutral, but American citizens are involved in the war.
Turtledove uses a wide variety of characters to tell his tale. Among them are:
I liked this novel. The fun of reading alternate history novels is to see how history plays out in the author's imagination. Turtledove's plot is different yet plausible. In this novel, he has delivered an enjoyable story.
West and East
Check out my eBook!
Setting: Earth, during the late 1930's in an alternate version of World War II
First Sentence: Theo Hosbach lay on a con in a military hospital in Cambrai.
This novel is the second in Harry Turtledove's "The War that Came Early" series.
In this version of World War II, Hitler attacked France in 1938. Because Germany was not quite ready for war, the Blitzkrieg bogged down. England, France and England are mired in a trench war reminiscent of World War I. On the eastern front, Germany and Poland are allies fighting against the Soviet Union. In Asia, Japan and the Soviet Union are at war. Japan has conquered China. The United States is neutral, but American citizens are involved in the war.
Turtledove uses a wide variety of characters to tell his tale. Among them are:
- A German sniper, and a Czech sniper out to nail each other,
- An American woman trapped in Germany,
- A French soldier leading a machine gun crew,
- A German pilot with ideas about how to make his dive bomber more lethal to tanks,
- A British infantry sergeant fighting in Norway,
- An American marine stationed in Shanghai,
- A Japanese soldier fighting the Russians in Siberia,
- A Jewish girl and her family trying to survive in Nazi Germany.
I liked this novel. The fun of reading alternate history novels is to see how history plays out in the author's imagination. Turtledove's plot is different yet plausible. In this novel, he has delivered an enjoyable story.
West and East
Check out my eBook!
Friday, March 2, 2012
Destroyermen: Firestorm by Taylor Anderson
Genre: Alternate History
Setting: A parallel version of Earth during World War II
Firestorm is the sixth novel in Anderson's Destroyermen series.
In early days of World War II, a Navy destroyer is locked in a life or death struggle with a Japanese battleship. In a last ditch attempt to escape, the USS Walker heads into a strange violent squall. When the destroyer emerges from the storm, its crew finds themselves in a very different world.
There they discover two nonhuman sentient races: the Lemurians, a relatively peace loving mammalian species, and the Grik, a violent reptilian species bent on conquering and consuming the Lemurians.
Eventually, they find that there are other humans who have entered this strange Earth at various times in the past. One group is descended from British explorers from the 18th century who now occupy what in our world is the Hawaiian islands. Another has its roots in Spanish explorers and missionaries from the 16th century. This group of humans have created a twisted religion formed from the marriage of the Spanish Inquisition and Aztec human sacrifice.
The crew of the Walker join with the Lemurians to help them survive the Grik onslaught. As the story progresses through Anderson's novels, the war with the Grik grows. A Japanese battleship has also entered this world. Its crew join with the Grik in order to fight and defeat the Americans helping the Lemurians.
In this novel the scope of the conflict has widened from Ceylon in the West, to the what we would call the California coast. In the West the battle with the Grik continues as the Grik become more technologically and mentally advanced. In the East, the Destroyermen, aided by the Lemurians, fight the evil Holy Dominion. There are defeats and victories as the war progresses. This novel is an interesting and exciting chapter in a fantastic Alternate History series.
I really enjoyed this book. I found it to be a real page turner. The battle scenes are exciting without excessive descriptions of blood and violence. And Anderson has created a memorable character in Chief Gunners Mate Silva. I like Anderson's writing style. It makes it easy to read and understand the plot.
I would make one suggestion to the author. As the series progresses there are many characters to keep track of. A list of the characters would aid the reader in remembering who is who.
Destroyermen: Firestorm
Into the Storm - the first book in the series.
Check out my eBook
Setting: A parallel version of Earth during World War II
Firestorm is the sixth novel in Anderson's Destroyermen series.
In early days of World War II, a Navy destroyer is locked in a life or death struggle with a Japanese battleship. In a last ditch attempt to escape, the USS Walker heads into a strange violent squall. When the destroyer emerges from the storm, its crew finds themselves in a very different world.
There they discover two nonhuman sentient races: the Lemurians, a relatively peace loving mammalian species, and the Grik, a violent reptilian species bent on conquering and consuming the Lemurians.
Eventually, they find that there are other humans who have entered this strange Earth at various times in the past. One group is descended from British explorers from the 18th century who now occupy what in our world is the Hawaiian islands. Another has its roots in Spanish explorers and missionaries from the 16th century. This group of humans have created a twisted religion formed from the marriage of the Spanish Inquisition and Aztec human sacrifice.
The crew of the Walker join with the Lemurians to help them survive the Grik onslaught. As the story progresses through Anderson's novels, the war with the Grik grows. A Japanese battleship has also entered this world. Its crew join with the Grik in order to fight and defeat the Americans helping the Lemurians.
In this novel the scope of the conflict has widened from Ceylon in the West, to the what we would call the California coast. In the West the battle with the Grik continues as the Grik become more technologically and mentally advanced. In the East, the Destroyermen, aided by the Lemurians, fight the evil Holy Dominion. There are defeats and victories as the war progresses. This novel is an interesting and exciting chapter in a fantastic Alternate History series.
I really enjoyed this book. I found it to be a real page turner. The battle scenes are exciting without excessive descriptions of blood and violence. And Anderson has created a memorable character in Chief Gunners Mate Silva. I like Anderson's writing style. It makes it easy to read and understand the plot.
I would make one suggestion to the author. As the series progresses there are many characters to keep track of. A list of the characters would aid the reader in remembering who is who.
Destroyermen: Firestorm
Into the Storm - the first book in the series.
Check out my eBook
Sunday, November 13, 2011
The High King of Montival by S. M. Stirling
Genre: Fantasy, Alternate History
Setting: A post apocalyptic North America, 25 years after the "Change"
This novel is the tenth in Stirling's Change series.
In Stirling's alternate universe, March 17, 1998 is the day the world changed. A mysterious event centered around Nantucket Island transported the island into the past. The story of how the Nantucket survivors adapted form the first three novels of the Change series.
With the next three novels in the series, Stirling tells the tale of present day Earth after the event. There has been a fundamental change in the laws of the universe. Electricity, gasoline engines, steam engines and gunpowder no longer work. Earth has returned to a pre-Industrial Revolution state. These three novels are mostly centered around Portland, Oregon. They describe how the people survive and reorganize themselves in this post apocalyptic world.
In the next four novels, the world has been invaded by a force of evil. The terrible Prophet, and his evil minions, the Cutters, are planning to take over the world. Rudi Mackenzie has been visited by spiritual Lady. She has given him the task to travel to Nantucket and retrieve a magic sword. Rudi then must use The Sword of the Lady to defeat the Prophet and his followers.
This novel picks up the action after Rudi has received the sword. He must return to Oregon with the sword. Along the way Rudi must organize his followers and assemble an army to defeat the Cutters. Rudi must also learn to control the magic of the sword so that he can rid the world of this evil threat. The plot follows Rudi and his followers. There are descriptions of destroyed cities and wild uncivilized people. There are desperate battles using swords, spears and shields. Along the way back to Oregon, Rudi becomes Artos, the High King of Montival.
The warriors that Rudi collects are an eclectic group of knights, cowboys, Vikings, Islamic pirates and Celtic archers. The religious beliefs of the people play an important part in the plot of the story. There are Christians, both Catholics and Protestants. There are believers in the old Norse religion of Odin and Thor. And there are those who practice the Wiccan beliefs.
An interesting part of the plot is that some of the characters have modeled thamselves after the Rangers in
J. R. R. Tolkein's Lord of the Rings trilogy. In fact they refer to Tolkein's writings as the "Histories". These are mostly characters who were born just before, or after, the Change.
I enjoyed reading this book. By itself, the book is fair. However, the main point of the book is to set up the plot for the final decisive battle of good versus evil.
Normally, I am not a fan of fantasy stories that have too much magic in them. In this book, the bad guy has a magical power, and the good guy has a magical power. The rest of the characters and plot are pretty realistic with people, animals, and objects acting realistically.
If you are interested in reading this series, I would suggest that you begin with Dies the Fire which is the first book in the series.
The High King of Montival
Dies the Fire
Island in the Sea of Time - The first Change series novel.
Setting: A post apocalyptic North America, 25 years after the "Change"
This novel is the tenth in Stirling's Change series.
In Stirling's alternate universe, March 17, 1998 is the day the world changed. A mysterious event centered around Nantucket Island transported the island into the past. The story of how the Nantucket survivors adapted form the first three novels of the Change series.
With the next three novels in the series, Stirling tells the tale of present day Earth after the event. There has been a fundamental change in the laws of the universe. Electricity, gasoline engines, steam engines and gunpowder no longer work. Earth has returned to a pre-Industrial Revolution state. These three novels are mostly centered around Portland, Oregon. They describe how the people survive and reorganize themselves in this post apocalyptic world.
In the next four novels, the world has been invaded by a force of evil. The terrible Prophet, and his evil minions, the Cutters, are planning to take over the world. Rudi Mackenzie has been visited by spiritual Lady. She has given him the task to travel to Nantucket and retrieve a magic sword. Rudi then must use The Sword of the Lady to defeat the Prophet and his followers.
This novel picks up the action after Rudi has received the sword. He must return to Oregon with the sword. Along the way Rudi must organize his followers and assemble an army to defeat the Cutters. Rudi must also learn to control the magic of the sword so that he can rid the world of this evil threat. The plot follows Rudi and his followers. There are descriptions of destroyed cities and wild uncivilized people. There are desperate battles using swords, spears and shields. Along the way back to Oregon, Rudi becomes Artos, the High King of Montival.
The warriors that Rudi collects are an eclectic group of knights, cowboys, Vikings, Islamic pirates and Celtic archers. The religious beliefs of the people play an important part in the plot of the story. There are Christians, both Catholics and Protestants. There are believers in the old Norse religion of Odin and Thor. And there are those who practice the Wiccan beliefs.
An interesting part of the plot is that some of the characters have modeled thamselves after the Rangers in
J. R. R. Tolkein's Lord of the Rings trilogy. In fact they refer to Tolkein's writings as the "Histories". These are mostly characters who were born just before, or after, the Change.
I enjoyed reading this book. By itself, the book is fair. However, the main point of the book is to set up the plot for the final decisive battle of good versus evil.
Normally, I am not a fan of fantasy stories that have too much magic in them. In this book, the bad guy has a magical power, and the good guy has a magical power. The rest of the characters and plot are pretty realistic with people, animals, and objects acting realistically.
If you are interested in reading this series, I would suggest that you begin with Dies the Fire which is the first book in the series.
The High King of Montival
Dies the Fire
Island in the Sea of Time - The first Change series novel.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Destroyermen: Rising Tides
Genre: Alternate History
Setting: On a parallel version of Earth during the WWII era.
At the beginning of WWII in the southwestern Pacific ocean. The destroyer USS Walker is locked in battle with the Japanese battle ship Amagi. The captain of the Walker, Lieutenant Commander Matthew Reddy, in a desperate move to save his ship and crew from destruction steers toward a fierce rain storm.
The squall is no ordinary meteorological event. It is a portal to a parallel Earth. The sailors aboard the Walker discover an Earth very different than the one they left. There they encounter new forms of animal and plant life, some very dangerous to the crew and the ship. The destroyermen also meet two sentient species: the peaceable, lemur-like Lemurians and the carnivorous, lizard-like Grik.
How the sailors from the Walker explore this alternate Earth, and join forces with the Lemurians, is the basis of the first installment of the Destroyermen series.
In the next four novels, the destroyermen aid the Lemurians in their fight against the Grik. They also discover that they are not the only humans in this version of Earth. A group of English ships entered in the 1800's. Another group of Spanish ships entered in the 1500's. And possibly some primitive peoples before that.
In this installment of the series, Lt. Commander Reddy and the USS Walker are headed east to New Britain, the islands inhabited by the descendants of the British explorers. Reddy's love, Nurse Tucker, with the Princess of New Britain and some others have been kidnapped. Reddy means to find them.
Unfortunately, Nurse Tucker and the princess, and their group have escaped and found refuge on a desolate, dangerous atoll. The Lumurian alliance with the humans continues to build its forces and train for the next big battle. The Grik are using lessons they have learned in past fights to improve their own forces. And to complicate matters, a volcano is threatening to "go Krakatoa" and disrupt everyone's plans.
Will Lt. Commander Reddy and the Walker find Nurse Tucker and the Princess? Or will the Alliance be plunged into another war? And will the pause in the battle with the Grik benefit the Alliance or the Grik?
I am really enjoying the Destroyermen series. Taylor Anderson has created an exciting parallel Earth. He has created fantastic, imaginative creatures to populate his Earth. Anderson's descriptions of the battles are enthralling. The books are real page turners. My only complaint is that they end too soon. I can't wait to read the next Destroyermen novel.
Into the Storm, Destroyermen Book 1
Setting: On a parallel version of Earth during the WWII era.
At the beginning of WWII in the southwestern Pacific ocean. The destroyer USS Walker is locked in battle with the Japanese battle ship Amagi. The captain of the Walker, Lieutenant Commander Matthew Reddy, in a desperate move to save his ship and crew from destruction steers toward a fierce rain storm.
The squall is no ordinary meteorological event. It is a portal to a parallel Earth. The sailors aboard the Walker discover an Earth very different than the one they left. There they encounter new forms of animal and plant life, some very dangerous to the crew and the ship. The destroyermen also meet two sentient species: the peaceable, lemur-like Lemurians and the carnivorous, lizard-like Grik.
How the sailors from the Walker explore this alternate Earth, and join forces with the Lemurians, is the basis of the first installment of the Destroyermen series.
In the next four novels, the destroyermen aid the Lemurians in their fight against the Grik. They also discover that they are not the only humans in this version of Earth. A group of English ships entered in the 1800's. Another group of Spanish ships entered in the 1500's. And possibly some primitive peoples before that.
In this installment of the series, Lt. Commander Reddy and the USS Walker are headed east to New Britain, the islands inhabited by the descendants of the British explorers. Reddy's love, Nurse Tucker, with the Princess of New Britain and some others have been kidnapped. Reddy means to find them.
Unfortunately, Nurse Tucker and the princess, and their group have escaped and found refuge on a desolate, dangerous atoll. The Lumurian alliance with the humans continues to build its forces and train for the next big battle. The Grik are using lessons they have learned in past fights to improve their own forces. And to complicate matters, a volcano is threatening to "go Krakatoa" and disrupt everyone's plans.
Will Lt. Commander Reddy and the Walker find Nurse Tucker and the Princess? Or will the Alliance be plunged into another war? And will the pause in the battle with the Grik benefit the Alliance or the Grik?
I am really enjoying the Destroyermen series. Taylor Anderson has created an exciting parallel Earth. He has created fantastic, imaginative creatures to populate his Earth. Anderson's descriptions of the battles are enthralling. The books are real page turners. My only complaint is that they end too soon. I can't wait to read the next Destroyermen novel.
Into the Storm, Destroyermen Book 1
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Red Inferno: 1945 by Robert Conrad
Genre: Alternate History
Alternate History is one of my favorite genres of literature. In this genre, the author picks a critical moment in time to change. And then describes how history would have been different.
In Red Inferno, the critical moment is near the end of World War II. The Allied and the Russian Armies are approaching Berlin. Stalin wants to limit Allied influence in Europe. He has received covert intelligence about the atomic bomb in development in America. Stalin sees that he has a window. If he attacks immediately, and swiftly, he might conquer all of Europe before the atomic bomb is operational. Thus, his army attacks the American army outside of Berlin.
Conroy weaves a story using multiple characters. Some are real figures of history, some are fictional. The novel is a nice easy read. Each page furthers the plot. His descriptions of the horror of war are realistic without being overly graphic. While there are scenes of sex and rape, Conroy has avoided being overly graphic here as well. In the end, it all hinges on if, when, and where the atomic bomb is used.
This is Conroy's fifth Alternate History novel. Every one has been an enjoyable read.
Red Inferno: 1945
Conroy's First novel: 1901
Alternate History is one of my favorite genres of literature. In this genre, the author picks a critical moment in time to change. And then describes how history would have been different.
In Red Inferno, the critical moment is near the end of World War II. The Allied and the Russian Armies are approaching Berlin. Stalin wants to limit Allied influence in Europe. He has received covert intelligence about the atomic bomb in development in America. Stalin sees that he has a window. If he attacks immediately, and swiftly, he might conquer all of Europe before the atomic bomb is operational. Thus, his army attacks the American army outside of Berlin.
Conroy weaves a story using multiple characters. Some are real figures of history, some are fictional. The novel is a nice easy read. Each page furthers the plot. His descriptions of the horror of war are realistic without being overly graphic. While there are scenes of sex and rape, Conroy has avoided being overly graphic here as well. In the end, it all hinges on if, when, and where the atomic bomb is used.
This is Conroy's fifth Alternate History novel. Every one has been an enjoyable read.
Red Inferno: 1945
Conroy's First novel: 1901
Monday, July 18, 2011
The First Heroes edited by Harry Turtledove and Noreen Doyle
Genre: Historical Fantasy Fiction, Alternate History
This book is an anthology of original short stories set in the Bronze Age. The Bronze Age is an important era in human development. It signals an important advance in technology. Also, since bronze was an expensive metal to create and use, it had a significant effect in the cultures of ancient peoples.
Turtledove and Doyle have assembled an interesting group of fantasy stories. There are tales of the Bronze Age set in Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, China, England, Central Europe and South America. Each tale relates a unique perspective of the life and times of characters in the Bronze age. The elements of fantasy vary widely from story to story.
Harry Turtledove is a master of alternate history novels. He contributes a story of a world in which mythical creatures co-exist with humans. S. M. Stirling is another master of the genre. He adds a story set in his Nantucket universe.
The book was dedicated to Poul Anderson, who died in 2001. He is the author of the final tale of the book. His story comes at the end of the Bronze age when warriors fought against iron wielding foes.
When I am looking for something new to read, I find that anthologies are an excellent means to explore new authors. This anthology would help the reader explore some of the authors in the Fantasy and Alternate History genres.
This book is an anthology of original short stories set in the Bronze Age. The Bronze Age is an important era in human development. It signals an important advance in technology. Also, since bronze was an expensive metal to create and use, it had a significant effect in the cultures of ancient peoples.
Turtledove and Doyle have assembled an interesting group of fantasy stories. There are tales of the Bronze Age set in Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, China, England, Central Europe and South America. Each tale relates a unique perspective of the life and times of characters in the Bronze age. The elements of fantasy vary widely from story to story.
Harry Turtledove is a master of alternate history novels. He contributes a story of a world in which mythical creatures co-exist with humans. S. M. Stirling is another master of the genre. He adds a story set in his Nantucket universe.
The book was dedicated to Poul Anderson, who died in 2001. He is the author of the final tale of the book. His story comes at the end of the Bronze age when warriors fought against iron wielding foes.
When I am looking for something new to read, I find that anthologies are an excellent means to explore new authors. This anthology would help the reader explore some of the authors in the Fantasy and Alternate History genres.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Liberating Atlantis by Harry Turtledove
Genre: Alternate History
Liberating Atlantis is the third novel in Turtledove's three novel alternate history Atlantis series. In this series, Atlantis is a continent that is discovered by English explorers in the late 15th century. Atlantis is populated with native peoples, and incredible exotic plants and animals. The history of Atlantis parallels the history of the United States in our timeline.
Liberating Atlantis covers the civil war period of history. In Atlantis, the southern states have plantations and slaves, the northern states do not have slavery. In this retelling of history, the slaves rise up against their masters, and the government sends the army to quell the rebellion.
Opening Atlantis, the first book in the series, covers the initial period of discovery and exploration. Early explorers of Atlantis must learn about this strange land and its incredible and dangerous creatures.
The United States of Atlantis, the second book in the series, covers the revolutionary period. Colonists must battle the British to find freedom and liberty, and create a new government.
Liberating Atlantis is the third novel in Turtledove's three novel alternate history Atlantis series. In this series, Atlantis is a continent that is discovered by English explorers in the late 15th century. Atlantis is populated with native peoples, and incredible exotic plants and animals. The history of Atlantis parallels the history of the United States in our timeline.
Liberating Atlantis covers the civil war period of history. In Atlantis, the southern states have plantations and slaves, the northern states do not have slavery. In this retelling of history, the slaves rise up against their masters, and the government sends the army to quell the rebellion.
Opening Atlantis, the first book in the series, covers the initial period of discovery and exploration. Early explorers of Atlantis must learn about this strange land and its incredible and dangerous creatures.
The United States of Atlantis, the second book in the series, covers the revolutionary period. Colonists must battle the British to find freedom and liberty, and create a new government.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
The Nomad of Time by Michael Moorcock
Genre: Science Fiction, Time Travel, Alternate History
This book contains three short novels about the main character Oswald Bastable. Bastable is a soldier in the British army serving in India in 1903. He mysteriously gets transported into the future: the year 1973. But his 1973 is not our 1973. There are steam powered cars, and gigantic airships.
Bastable survives his first time traveling experience, and travels to two other twentieth century "futures". In each, he finds many differences, but he finds some similarities. The world seems to always be at war, although the countries and reasons are varied. In each future time, someone invents nuclear weapons.
I enjoy science fiction. I find the sub-genre of alternate history very enjoyable. In these novels, the author presents a "what-if?" version of the past. Moorcock's vision of Bastable's future makes for an enjoyable, yet somewhat pessimistic view of the future and human nature.
This book contains three short novels about the main character Oswald Bastable. Bastable is a soldier in the British army serving in India in 1903. He mysteriously gets transported into the future: the year 1973. But his 1973 is not our 1973. There are steam powered cars, and gigantic airships.
Bastable survives his first time traveling experience, and travels to two other twentieth century "futures". In each, he finds many differences, but he finds some similarities. The world seems to always be at war, although the countries and reasons are varied. In each future time, someone invents nuclear weapons.
I enjoy science fiction. I find the sub-genre of alternate history very enjoyable. In these novels, the author presents a "what-if?" version of the past. Moorcock's vision of Bastable's future makes for an enjoyable, yet somewhat pessimistic view of the future and human nature.
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