Homeward Bound

In the climactic conclusion to Harry Turtledove's monumental alternate history saga, "Homeward Bound" propels humanity into the vast unknown. Decades after the alien Race's initial invasion during WWII and the subsequent uneasy truce, Earth's inventiveness has paradoxically accelerated its technological development, particularly in nuclear arms. This forced détente, however, masks a simmering tension. Driven by an audacious spirit and advanced propulsion, a pioneering human expedition embarks on an unprecedented journey across interstellar space, aiming directly for the Race's home planet. As the 20th century draws to a close, this small, daring crew arrives at the heart of the alien empire – 'Home.' Their unexpected presence on the ancestral world of their former invaders ignites a volatile flashpoint. The Race now faces an agonizing choice: integrate this unpredictable, rapidly evolving species into their ancient galactic order, or unleash the ultimate cataclysm to prevent what they perceive as the spread of a dangerous 'human contagion.' The fate of two species, and potentially the galaxy, hangs precariously in the balance.