The Guns of the South

The Guns of the South cover
Good Books rating 3.67
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Technical
  • ID: 9491
  • Added: 2025-12-24
  • Updated: 2025-12-24
  • ISBN: 9780345384683
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 1993-09-01
  • Reviews: 3

In January 1864, General Robert E. Lee faces imminent defeat. The Army of Northern Virginia is in tatters, and the Confederacy's hopes seem dashed after the Battle of Gettysburg. However, a mysterious man named Andries Rhoodie appears with an extraordinary offer: a weapon of unparalleled power, the AK-47, which could turn the tide of the war. This novel, praised by Pulitzer Prize-winning historian James M. McPherson, is a unique blend of historical fiction and science fiction, exploring the 'what if' scenarios of the Civil War with a twist of time-traveling technology. /n/nThe Guns of the South is not just a tale of war and strategy, but also a commentary on the consequences of altering history. The novel delves into the ethical and practical implications of changing the course of events, making it a thought-provoking read for fans of both historical and speculative fiction. Selected by the Science Fiction Book Club and a Main Selection of the Military Book Club, this book offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in American history.

Reviews
Reddit - ShermanPosting · 2025-12-24
controversial 3.00

The book is influenced by the Lost Cause narrative, which may affect its portrayal of historical events. The reviewer acknowledges the book's impact but notes its controversial undertones.

This reviewer discusses the book's influence by the Lost Cause narrative, which presents a controversial perspective on the Civil War. They acknowledge the book's impact and engaging storyline but also highlight the problematic undertones that may affect its portrayal of historical events. The reviewer suggests that readers should be aware of these elements when approaching the book. Despite the controversial aspects, the book is seen as a significant work in the genre of alternative history.


Quick quotes

    Yeah, Guns of the South is absolutely influenced by the Lost Cause, regardless of whether Turtledove is actually a decent guy or not.

    It's a significant work in the genre of alternative history.

    The book's impact and engaging storyline are acknowledged, but the problematic undertones are noted.

Bookshelf Fantasies · 2020-09-02
fascinating 4.00

The book offers a unique and fascinating take on the Civil War, with a gripping and semi-plausible story. It effectively conveys the feel of the historical period.

This reviewer highlights the book's unique and fascinating perspective on the Civil War. They found the story gripping and semi-plausible, appreciating how it effectively captures the historical period. The book's ability to present a different narrative of the Civil War is particularly praised. The reviewer also notes that the book is enjoyable in parts, especially near the beginning, and conveys a strong sense of the historical context.


Quick quotes

    Rhoodie demonstrates an amazing rifle: Its rate of fire is incredible, its lethal efficiency breathtaking–and Rhoodie guarantees unlimited ...

    This is a book I enjoy in parts, especially near the beginning.

    It has a gripping and semi-plausible story, and conveys something of the feel ...

engaging 4.00

The story is well-written and engaging, with characters that readers grow to care about. The narrative is easy to follow and maintains a good pace throughout.

This reviewer found the story to be quite engaging and well-crafted. The characters are well-developed, and readers are likely to become invested in their journeys. The narrative flows smoothly, making it an enjoyable read. The reviewer also appreciated the historical elements and the thought-provoking scenarios presented in the book. Overall, it's a compelling read for those interested in alternative history and the Civil War.


Quick quotes

    The story is fairly contiguous and easy to follow.

    The characters are well-written and we grow to care about them, moreso I felt than in some of ...

    The narrative flows smoothly, making it an enjoyable read.