15 Best Alternate History Books of 2025 Reviewed
Explore the world of alternate history with our top pick: 'The Plot Against America' – a rollercoaster of imagination!
Alternate history books take us on mind-bending journeys where history takes a thrilling twist. When picking our top 15, we look for imaginative plots, well-crafted characters, and a blend of the familiar with the unexpected. We hunted down books that transport you to worlds where JFK survives or the South wins the Civil War. Join us as we explore these captivating narratives.
On this list:
15 The Man in the High Castle by Philip K. Dick
This book paints a world where the Axis powers won World War II. We weren’t sure how much we’d like it, but Dick’s knack for bending reality kept us hooked.
14 11/22/63 by Stephen King
King takes us on a wild ride as a man tries to prevent JFK’s assassination. We loved the blend of suspense and historical detail.
13 Fatherland by Robert Harris
This one imagines a world where Nazi Germany triumphed. We enjoyed the grim atmosphere and gripping plot.
12 The Yiddish Policemen’s Union by Michael Chabon
Imagine Alaska as a Jewish homeland post-Holocaust. We marveled at Chabon’s use of language and twisty, noir mystery.
11 The Plot Against America by Philip Roth
Roth delivers a chilling take on a fascist America. We found it eerily plausible and thought-provoking.
10 The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
Although more dystopian than alternate history, it offers a haunting what-if scenario of fundamentalist government. We admired Atwood’s masterful storytelling.
9 The Guns of the South by Harry Turtledove
Time-traveling racists give AK-47s to the Confederacy. We reveled in Turtledove’s imagination and detailed historical insight.
8 The Book of Koli by M.R. Carey
Set in a post-apocalyptic Britain, it’s sci-fi meets alternate history. We enjoyed Koli’s journey and the vivid world-building.
7 Underground Airlines by Ben H. Winters
Slavery still exists, and a Black man hunts runaway slaves. We found it both uncomfortable and compelling.
6 The Years of Rice and Salt by Kim Stanley Robinson
Explore a world where the Black Death wipes out Europe. We were intrigued by its scope and philosophical depth.
5 The Alteration by Kingsley Amis
Set in a world where the Protestant Reformation didn’t occur. We were hooked by its dark humor and satire.
4 Bring the Jubilee by Ward Moore
The Confederacy wins the Civil War. We found its detailed world-building and strong character arcs captivating.
3 SS-GB by Len Deighton
Germany invades Britain in WW2. We enjoyed its gripping detective plot, set against an alternate historical backdrop.
2 Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro
In an alternate 1990s, human clones exist for organ donation. We were mesmerized by its emotional depth and ethical dilemmas.
1 Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke
Our top pick because it masterfully blends history and fantasy, setting a tale of magic against the Napoleonic Wars. The book is a doorstopper, but every page is a delight. Its alternate history is rich with detail, and the characters are unforgettable. Clarke’s dry wit and imagination kept us spellbound. A great read for anyone who loves intricate plots and wordplay. There’s a reason it’s won awards and stayed on bestseller lists for years. It’s a masterpiece, and the only downside is that it eventually ends.
