How Few Remain

A Novel of the Second War Between the States

By: Harry Turtledove

Narrated by: George Guidall

Length: 24 hrs and 21 mins

Publisher's summary

From the master of alternate history comes an epic of the second Civil War. It was an epoch of glory and success, of disaster and despair.

1881: A generation after the South won the Civil War, America writhed once more in the bloody throes of battle. Furious over the annexation of key Mexican territory, the United States declared total war against the Confederate States of America in 1881. But this was a new kind of war, fought on a lawless frontier where the blue and gray battled not only each other but the Apache, the outlaw, the French, and the English.

As Confederate General Stonewall Jackson again demonstrated his military expertise, the North struggled to find a leader who could prove his equal. In the Second War Between the States, the times, the stakes, and the battle lines had changed—and so would history....

©1997 Harry Turtledove (P)2002 Recorded Books

Not bad

This story wasn't bad; if I hadn't already been very familiar with this sub-genre, alternate history, I might have rated How Few Remain more favorably. As it is, I have read the best, so this was just good, not great. There are many, "what ifs" the author considered well and I was very pleased to get some up close time with my favorite man from this time, Frederick Douglass. As always George Guidall did a masterful job of narrating this novel.

If you were looking for something like Inglourious Basterds (not my misspelling) or Burning Paradise, this might not be for you. If, however, you're new to the genre, have at it.

Two words: Phe. Nominal.

The author has captured these real historical figures and their personalities in a compelling new environment.

Enjoyed Fully!

Fascinating alternative history novel. The character of Teddy Rosevelt was outstanding! Great narration of characters.

My first foray into alternate history.

What did you love best about How Few Remain?

The plotline and narration. Guidall's great with accents, without overdoing them.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Afraid I can't pick one. All were excellent.

Have you listened to any of George Guidall’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I have. All of his narrations are quite good. This is his best so far I believe.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Afraid I can't think of one.

Any additional comments?

A must-have I feel for any alternate history fans.

Great alternate History

Being Alternate Reality it was very interesting listening as individuals that’s lead history debated their corse of moral thought, political intent and shifting ideologies

Great Idea, Engaging Story, Awkward Execution

How Few Remain is a fascinating story. It gives a fascinating "what if" glance at the United States history and makes humans out of larger-than-life figures from history.

If I had to select a favorite character, it would have to be Samuel Clemens (aka Mark Twain). Turtledove does a masterful job of mimicking the writing style of most of the characters, but he nails it with Clemens. Every time one of his portions popped up, I found myself listening more intently.

The story's action and politics are well paced, and no part of the book seems to drag on. Guidall's read of it helps, keeping the character's varied dialects convincing and interesting. He really helps you hate the unlikable characters (like Pope) and empathize with the sympathetic characters (like Douglass).

The main problem with the book stems from the actual narrative crafting. There are several detailed romantic encounters in the book, all of which are remarkably awkward to listen to and add no relevant detail or character development. Further, all of the story's main plot arcs end in anti-climatic fizzles, rather than a thunderous boom. Also, the tone is very depressing and pessimistic. I was curious if this was a product of Turtledove's time, but was surprised to find out the publication date was 1997.

If you're looking for a convincing alternate history reconstruction or a critical look at how politics shape the world we live in, this book is a good fit for you. If you have thin skin about national pessimism, racial relations or adhering to traditional storytelling, you might want to let this one pass you by.

Excellent book. Excellent narration. But a warning

I have nothing but praise for this book. Guidall’s narration is excellent. He voices each character in a distinct way.

Just be aware: the narrator changes at the eighth book, and the new narrator is awful. Go listen to a sample so you can make an informed decision. I wish I had before I invested time in the series.

Surprised!

Was unsure how well I would like an alternate history title but this was great. Liked seeing how differently things could've ended up for prominent historical figures should the south have won. The characters where very well built and while obviously I wasn't alive in this period, I felt that the prejudice of the people was neither overblown or glossed over. The narrator was skilled and had distinct voices for most characters. Can't wait to try the next book in the series!

It was a good book.

It was a very decent book. My only issue is is the book ended to fast and there was a lot of a plots that I wish you could’ve develop more. For example, the issue between Custard and Roosevelt would’ve been really interesting to see how that turned out. Hopefully he’ll consider doing a sequel book.

A story that holds your attention.

As a fan of history I thought I'd give a chance to a book with alternate history moments. This book did not let me down. I'd highly recommend this book and series.