FallenKingdomReads’ list of 7 Alternate History Science Fiction Books That Will Make You Rethink the Past.
Alternate history science fiction is a fascinating subgenre that explores what could have happened if certain events in history had taken a different turn. These books are often thought-provoking and imaginative, and they offer readers a chance to see the past in a whole new light. Here are seven alternate history science fiction books that will make you rethink the past.
The Man in the High Castle by Philip K. Dick
This classic novel imagines a world in which the Axis powers won World War II and divided the United States into two separate territories. The book explores themes of identity, memory, and the nature of reality in a way that is both intriguing and unsettling.
Dread Nation by Justina Ireland
In this fast-paced and action-packed novel, the Civil War ends when the dead rise up and start attacking the living. The book follows the adventures of a young African American girl named Jane as she navigates this new and dangerous world. Dread Nation offers a fresh and exciting take on the zombie apocalypse genre.
Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke
Set in an alternate version of early 19th-century England, this novel imagines a world in which magic is real and has been lost for centuries. The book follows two magicians who try to bring magic back to England, with sometimes disastrous consequences. Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell is a beautifully written and deeply imaginative novel that will transport readers to another world.
The Calculating Stars by Mary Robinette Kowal
In this alternate history, a catastrophic meteorite strike in the 1950s leads to a race to colonize space before Earth becomes uninhabitable. The book follows a female astronaut as she struggles to overcome sexism and racism in order to help save humanity. The Calculating Stars is a thrilling and inspiring novel that combines science fiction with social commentary.
Darwinia by Robert Charles Wilson
This novel imagines a world in which Europe was completely transformed in 1912 by a mysterious event known as the “Miracle.” The book follows a team of explorers who venture into this strange and unpredictable new world, encountering bizarre creatures and ancient ruins along the way. Darwinia is a haunting and thought-provoking novel that will stay with readers long after they finish it.
Voyage by Stephen Baxter
In this novel, NASA decides to send a manned mission to Mars in the 1980s, despite political and economic challenges. The book follows the crew of the Ares as they journey to Mars and encounter unexpected challenges along the way. Voyage is a meticulously researched and thrilling novel that offers a realistic and compelling look at space exploration.
Transition by Iain M. Banks
This novel imagines a world in which a secret organization called the Concern can travel between parallel universes, manipulating events and people for their own purposes. The book follows several characters as they navigate this complex and dangerous world, facing moral dilemmas and personal challenges along the way. Transition is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that will keep readers guessing until the very end.
These seven alternate history science fiction books offer readers a chance to see the past in a whole new light, imagining what could have been and exploring the consequences of different choices and events. Each of these novels is unique and thought-provoking, offering a glimpse into alternate worlds that will stay with readers long after they finish the last page.
