It’s not hard to understand why alternate history series are seeing an all-time popularity right now. (No joke, the phrase “darkest timeline” was recently trending on Google.) Regardless of how you might be feeling about the world around you, one thing is certain: alternate history series offers the perfect opportunity to get completely immersed in a universe separate from our own.
So, dear readers, if you’re looking for a little escapism these days, fear not. We’ve compiled this list of the ten best alternate history series to get you through.
Let’s get lost.
10. Heirs of Alexandria series by Mercedes Lackey, Eric Flint, and Dave Freer
Books in the series:
- The Shadow of the Lion
- This Rough Magic
- A Mankind Witch
- Much Fall of Blood
- Burdens of the Dead
- All the Plagues of Hell
Set in the 1530s Republic of Venice, this alternate history series masterfully blends elements of historical fiction, fantasy, and magic. It imagines a world in which the Library of Alexandria was never destroyed.
The series’ three authors have crafted a beautiful alternate history series perfect for fans of political intrigue and dreamy Mediterranean landscapes.
Why we recommend it: I love the detail and love that was so clearly put into the world-building of this series.
9. The Sky Crawlers series by Hiroshi Mori
Books in the series:
- The Sky Crawlers
- None But Air
- Down to Heaven
- Cradle the Sky
- Sky Eclipse
From one of Japan’s most innovative contemporary writers comes a thrilling thrilling alternate history series.
Set in an alternate timeline where war has become a commodity and form of entertainment, it tells the story of a group of fighter pilots who participate in combat for corporate militaries.
Why we recommend it: I was moved by the series’ exploration of identity and responsibility.
RelatedThe 10 Best Historical Fiction Books for Young Adults
8. Small Change trilogy by Jo Walton
Books in the series:
- Farthing
- Ha’penny
- Half a Crown
This alternate history series perfectly captures the “what-if” appeal of the genre. It takes place in a world where, in World War II, Britain made peace with Nazi Germany. The result is a chilling and stark portrayal of the rise of fascism.
Why we recommend it: I was hooked by the detective novel elements in this alternate history series, as well as the character development.
7. Temeraire series by Naomi Novik
Books in the series:
- His Majesty’s Dragon
- Throne of Jade
- Black Powder War
- Empire of Ivory
- Victory of Eagles
- Tongues of Serpents
- Crucible of Gold
- Blood of Tyrants
- League of Dragons
Dragons are having their moment, from the Game of Thrones spin-off series to an upcoming, live-action remake of the runaway success How To Train Your Dragon. (I don’t care what anyone says, you’re never too old to love dragon stories!)
This alternate history series is the perfect choice for readers who love dragons, battles, or just plain old fantasy. It tells the story of a naval officer and his dragon who, during the Napoleonic Wars, fought to maintain alliances and defeat Napoleon at any cost.
Why we recommend it: I enjoyed the relationships in this alternate history series.
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Subscribe to our weekly newsletter6. Axis of Time trilogy by John Birmingham
Books in the series:
- Weapons of Choice
- Designated Targets
- Final Impact
A modern-day naval task force is sent back to 1942 in this alternate history series. Their arrival, along with their technology and perspective, fundamentally changes the course of World War II.
Why we recommend it: I loved the military action in this alternate history series.
5. Worldwar series by Harry Turtledove
Books in the series:
- In the Balance
- Tilting the Balance
- Upsetting the Balance
- Striking the Balance
An unbelievably unique combination of science fiction and alternate history, the Worldwar series is an absolute must-read for fans of World War II alternate history.
Aliens invade Earth in the midst of World War II, but they’re confronted with a humanity far more resilient and combative than they ever could have expected.
Why we recommend it: I admired the original premise of this series, which was endlessly fun to read.
RelatedBeyond The History Books: 10 Most Gripping Alternate History Books
4. Noughts and Crosses series by Malorie Blackman
Books in the series:
- Noughts and Crosses
- Knife Edge
- Checkmate
- Double Cross
- Crossfire
- Endgame
Ideas of race are entirely upended in this thought-provoking alternate history series, which mixes elements of young adult fiction and dystopian novels.
Why we recommend it: I found this series addictive and wonderfully philosophical.
3. His Dark Materials series by Philip Pullman
Books in the series:
- Northern Lights
- The Subtle Knife
- The Amber Spyglass
Phillip Pullman’s iconic alternate history series might have come out almost thirty years ago, but his writing stands the test of time. (What’s more, the readers who were inspired by his writing to see the aurora borealis have recently had their dreams come true.)
Why we recommend it: I love this series so much, particularly the relationship between Lyra and Pantalaimon.
2. 1632 series by Eric Flint
Books in the series:
- 1632
- 1633
- 1634: The Galileo Affair
- 1634: The Baltic War
Borrowing heavily from a tradition started by books like Aristopia, this alternate history series follows one West Virginia town as they’re thrust from the year 2000 to 1631 Germany.
Why we recommend it: I loved the emphasis on community and resilience in this series.
1. Southern Victory series by Harry Turtledove
Books in the series:
- How Few Remain
- The Great War: American Front
- The Great War: Walk in Hell
- The Great War: Breakthroughs
Harry Turtledove’s acclaimed Southern Victory series is one of the finest works of alternate history. It tells the story of a timeline in which the Confederate States of America won the American Civil War.
Why we recommend it: I was blown away by the differences and similarities to our real world in this alternate history series. A must-read.
From dragon soldiers to magical companions to technological warfare, this list of alternate history series is as diverse as it gets. No matter what your taste, we hope you’ve found inspiration for your TBR list. Do you have a favorite alternate history series to share? Let us know in the comments.
As always, happy reading!
