Harry Turtledove – Noir Fantasy, Alternate Histories & Writing the What-Ifs

In this fascinating episode of Miles Beyond the Page, Michelle sits down with none other than Harry Turtledove, the acclaimed “Master of Alternate History.” Known for his award-winning historical and speculative fiction, Turtledove takes us into new territory with his latest release, Twice as Dead—a gritty urban fantasy noir where the supernatural collides with the shadows of a haunted city.

We discuss the twists and turns of Twice as Dead, his upcoming dystopian novel Powerless, and how writing across genres—from fantasy and mystery to hard-hitting alternate history—has shaped his legendary career. With a PhD in Byzantine history and decades of genre-defining stories under his belt, Turtledove shares how historical depth and imagination create the perfect storm for unforgettable fiction.

This episode is packed with insight on worldbuilding, genre-blending, and what it means to stand by your principles in fiction and life. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his work, this is a must-watch conversation with one of speculative fiction’s greats.

ABOUT HARRY TURTLEDOVE:

He’s been dubbed “The Master of Alternate History,” –but now author Harry Turtledove’s latest book, Twice as Dead, is a thriller, urban fantasy into a world where the supernatural and the human realm intersect in shadowy corners.

A hard-boiled detective is drawn into a maze of mystery and danger, where every step can be his last. This sleuth navigates through a city that breathes secrets, facing threats both human and otherworldly. Added to that he’s confronting his own internal demons.

This noir fantasy expertly weaves a tale of suspense, intrigue and supernatural – a tightrope between the real and the unreal.

Turtledove won the Homer Award for Short Story in 1990 for Designated Hitter, the John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction in 1993 for The Guns of the South, and the Hugo Award for Novella in 1994 for Down in the Bottomlands. “Must and Shall was nominated for the 1996 Hugo Award and Nebula Award for Best Novelette and received an honorable mention for the 1995 Sidewise Award for Alternate History. Two Georges also received an honorable mention for the 1995 Sidewise Award for Alternate History.

WHERE TO FIND HIM AND HIS BOOKS:

Amazon Author Page | BlueSky

BUY AT AMAZON

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