Pavane by Keith Roberts

Pavane by Keith Roberts

History took a sharp, dark turn in 1588: Queen Elizabeth assassinated, the Spanish Armada victorious. Centuries later, the England of Keith Roberts’ Pavane lives under the long shadow of the Papal throne, a land where scientific progress has stalled, and faith and fear permeate daily life. Steam lorries trace paths through ancient forests, their progress relayed by clattering semaphore signals under the watchful eyes of the Church. This hauntingly realized world unfolds through interconnected stories, drawing you into the lives shaped by this altered destiny. Travel with lonely signalmen keeping watch on desolate hills, follow the hauliers navigating treacherous routes, and glimpse the quiet defiance simmering just beneath the surface of absolute authority. Roberts paints a poignant, atmospheric portrait of a society held captive by its past, yet alive with the enduring, resilient pulse of the human spirit yearning for something more.

Why You’ll Love This Book

Keith Roberts' novel stands as a haunting masterpiece of alternate history, renowned for its lyrical prose and meticulously realized world-building. The interconnected stories create a rich, atmospheric tapestry, thoughtfully exploring the consequences of a history that diverged centuries ago. Readers will be captivated by the poignant mood, the insightful look at societal stagnation versus human spirit, and the sheer artistry of this speculative fiction classic.