When I think of fiction and alternative futures (or pasts?), I expect drastic changes from the status quo.

This is a nice observation, something I hadn't actually thought about before -- but about which you are certainly right.

I have never read any of Saif's books. I'm not sure why. This alternative history was the first one that actually appealed to me. But based on your review (and the various passages you quote), I don't think I'll be looking to pick it up.