And the Last Trump Shall Sound

And the Last Trump Shall Sound is a three-part alternate history novel by Harry Turtledove, James K. Morrow, and Cat Rambo that imagines a near-future United States after Donald Trump's presidency and death in 2024. The book follows the succession of Mike Pence to the presidency and the dramatic transformation of America that follows. The narrative explores a divided nation where the West Coast states secede to form Pacifica, while the remaining United States becomes increasingly authoritarian. Under Pence's leadership, the government implements sweeping changes affecting religious freedom, civil rights, immigration policy, and press independence. The book consists of three interconnected stories: "The Breaking of Nations" by Turtledove, "The Purloined Republic" by Morrow, and "Because it is Bitter" by Rambo. Each author contributes a distinct perspective on this alternate timeline and its consequences. This political speculative fiction examines themes of religious fundamentalism, democratic erosion, and regional division in America. The work serves as a commentary on contemporary political tensions and their potential long-term implications for American society.

Readers view this alternate history collection as an uneven trio of connected novellas exploring a post-Trump America. Readers praised: - Strong world-building and plausible near-future scenarios - Harry Turtledove's opening story sets up the premise effectively - Dark humor throughout, especially in Morrow's contribution Common criticisms: - Stories feel rushed and underdeveloped - Heavy-handed political messaging - Third story significantly weaker than first two - Characters lack depth Several readers noted the collection works better as political commentary than as cohesive fiction. One reviewer stated "the premise deserved a full novel treatment rather than these abbreviated takes." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.5/5 (62 ratings) Amazon: 3.7/5 (43 ratings) The book generated stronger reviews from readers who align with its political perspective. Those seeking pure alternate history fiction found it less satisfying, with one noting "the message overwhelms the storytelling."

The Plot Against America by Philip Roth This alternate history novel depicts a United States where Charles Lindbergh wins the 1940 presidential election, leading to increasing authoritarianism and antisemitism in America.

American War by Omar El Akkad The story takes place in a future America torn apart by civil war due to political divisions and climate change policies.

The Man in the High Castle by Philip K. Dick This classic alternate history book presents a post-World War II America divided between Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan after the Axis powers win the war.

It Can't Happen Here by Sinclair Lewis The narrative follows the rise of a populist politician to the American presidency and the subsequent transformation of the nation into a totalitarian state.

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood The book depicts a future America transformed into a theocratic state where religious fundamentalism controls society and restricts individual freedoms.

★ "And the Last Trump Shall Sound" is a collaborative work by three acclaimed science fiction authors, each contributing a distinct novella to create a cohesive alternate history narrative. ★ Harry Turtledove, one of the anthology's authors, is known as "The Master of Alternate History" and has written over 60 novels exploring different historical "what-if" scenarios. ★ The book's title alludes to the biblical reference in 1 Corinthians 15:52: "In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible." ★ The concept of West Coast secession featured in the book mirrors real-world movements like "Calexit," which gained attention following the 2016 presidential election. ★ This anthology represents one of the first major alternative history works to explore a near-future scenario involving the aftermath of the Trump presidency, published while he was still in office.