"Underground Airlines" is a novel that presents an alternate history where the Civil War did not occur, and slavery is still institutionally recognized in several states. The story follows a black man named Victor, who works as a bounty hunter. His job is to track down and apprehend escaped slaves, highlighting the moral conflict he faces as a black individual participating in this oppressive system.
The plot deepens as Victor is given a particular case involving a runaway slave. This mission leads him to uncover larger conspiracies and systemic corruption, as he wrestles with his own identity and ethical dilemmas. The narrative challenges readers to consider the implications of slavery and the realities of oppression, prompting reflection on issues of freedom and justice.