1945: A Novel

An alternate history novel that considers what might have happened had, when japan was about to surrender in 1945, the japanese army launched a coup, taken over the country, and carried on fighting. In a country where there's nothing much left to bomb, but with a fanatical populace and army prepared to die to defend their shores, america [britain and other allies are still fighting in south east asia, so don't worry, they do get mentioned] has to invade. Facing suicide bombers and human shields a very bloody conflict ensues.The home front is in turmoil as people weary of war, but one secret agent landed in japan might just be able to perform above and beyond the call of duty.a story complete in one volume, and running to 432 pages, this follows the usual format for alternate history novels, with characters both real and created by the writer. All of whom are quite good, and generally fit in with the style of the times. also as usual for this kind of book the broad sweeping canvas means you don't see some events firsthand such as the initial landings. but it's very effective to see what the second wave of troops experience as they go ashore.And this is very readable stuff. if you like this kind of thing, you shouldn't go wrong with this book

I chose this book as I haven't read much alternate history before, and was more than pleasantly surprised. The writer obviously knows what he is doing, as the story was convincing, and seem to accurately convey what it might have been like to assault the Japanese Home Islands. The depiction of the effects of the Atom Bombs was horrific, and the agony of Truman over what to do next when they did not work was very well done. I like the fact that there was evidence of tension between Truman and McArthur, and how all the characters interacted with each other. The coup against the Emperor at the beginning of the book just shows how finely balanced events are, and how anything can change a situation wen its balanced on a knife edge. We should all be thankful this is fiction, and did not happen, because it could so easily have done.

When I first started reading this, I was concerned that it would be set at too low a level in terms of the characters. But after a while when men such as MacArthur and Bradley are brought in, plus some big action pieces are described, I was hooked! The author resists the inevitable temptation to accelerate technological developments too far (no jet bombers or secret weapons etc) to splice things up. Instead it plays out in what I would imagine to be a fairly realistic and possible way. I'll definitely be buying some more of his works!

After reading a few reviews of Robert Conroy's books, I nearly did not buy '1945'. But the reviews for this one were good, and I went for it... I'm glad I did. It was an excellent read; well researched, fast paced, and thought provoking.One of the reasons that Truman gave the order to drop the atomic bomb on Japan was to end the war and save lives in the long run. This book considers what would have happened if the bombs had failed, and a coup by fanatics in Japan had prolonged the war. The shocking casualties that the USA would have received if they had launched a conventional invasion are really brought home, as are the different character traits amongst the commanding officers on both sides. I suspect that Conroy is not very good at hiding his own sympathies and dislikes for certain real life characters; but I am looking forward to trying out another one of his novels soon!

Great read if you're an alternative history reader. Have now read ALL Robert Conroys books and gutted that he died recently.

Starts out good - but then turns 'happy ever after' - which is a shame. Author doesnt really explore the 'what if' opportunities of the scenario.

o.k. but not outstanding.

Interesting read especially after watching "Man in High Castle"