The Difference Engine is a captivating alternative history mystery novel written by William Gibson and Bruce Sterling. Set in Victorian England, the story imagines a world where Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine was successfully built, leading to an early information age. Amidst political intrigue and technological advancements, the novel follows a group of characters who become entangled in a conspiracy involving a mysterious set of punched cards. With its blend of steampunk aesthetics, historical figures, and thrilling mystery, The Difference Engine is a must-read for fans of alternative history and speculative fiction.