I like it!
I love historical fiction, and although the "alternate history" books have never been of particular interest to me...it seems like you are on to something.

I read your passage aloud to my wife, who is a published author and editor, and she thinks you have the potential to go far with your writing!

You can check out her website at: http://suzannekingsbury.net/editing/
(that link is specifically for her editing services, but you can browse her complete website as well...)

You might want to send her an email, if you are interested in working with an editor who can help you through the whole process;from rough draft to publication. She has helped over 45 books come to publication!

Whatever you do with it, keep writing and sharing. Good writing is becoming a lost art!

Thanks for sharing with us!