Drive to the East
by Harry Turtledove
Published by Ballantine Books
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Reviewed by Guy Wegener
I've always enjoyed alternative history. Harry Turtledove is the master and Drive to the East (the second book in the trilogy) is no exception.
Confederate president and dictator Jake Featherston learns that his own aircraft have killed U.S. president Al Smith who was in Philadelphia. Following in Smith's footsteps is the vice president, who has little experience.
The United States, at war, has been effectively cut in two parts with one side gaining back some ground in a divided nation. There is a black holocaust in Texas, led by Featherston's Freedom Party, and chaos and evil reign supreme throughout the land.
Turtledove's characterization is rich and thorough and the storyline is intriguing, captivating and frightening at the same time. I believe, however, it would be a stronger book with fewer characters and storylines. That is a minor issue however. Turtledove's novel will keep you turning the pages.
Armchair Interviews says: Turtledove's alternative history is a grand read!