"Terrific alternate military history collection"

The premise of this terrific alternate military history collection is to change circumstances of famous war heroes (depending on which side the reader is on) by placing them in some other scenario whether that is Joan of Arc not being burned or Robert E Lee named as ambassador to England for the triumphant Confederacy, etc. Modifying a pivotal moment or placing a victorious leader into a difference circumstance to "determine" whether they would remain winners are the underlying themes behind this strong anthology. Readers will appreciate all thirteen tales starring a diverse bunch of conquerors and generals, but not quite in the role that history reveals to us. Each tale is well written and fans of alternate history will complete the book in one sitting. Especially enlightening is how much other factors besides strong leadership play in success and how easily yet disconcertingly the Iraq freedom invasion seems so analogous even when looking for a missing elephant in Ancient Rome. This is a great series of tales that will keep the audience reflecting on war and leaders.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted July 4, 2005

Summary

History shows that leadership is crucial in war, but there are other factors at work. What if history were given a twist or two, and great commanders on land and sea fought their greatest battles under different circumstances? Turtledove and his colleagues turn the past upside down and inside out, and the possibilities are endless. . . .

The historical Flora MacDonald helped Bonnie Prince Charlie escape Scotland after his failed rebellion in 1745. Captured by the English, said she would have helped his enemy, the Duke of Cumberland, if he had needed her assistance. So, in Over the Sea from Skye by Lillian Stewart Carl, Bonnie Prince Charlie wins his battle and Cumberland arrives destitute on Flora's doorstep, testing Flora's intelligence and resolve. Because Cumberland's personality is far from "bonnie", and Flora has to think as fast in dealing with him as she does in dealing with his pursuers.