Blog
Press Release - HTF Publishing Signs Author Karla Cruise
HTF Publishing proudly signs Karla Cruise, author of The Water Lilies of Mishipeshu. This debut novel weaves history, mythology, and environmental themes into a thrilling saga about a botanical manuscript's secrets and the fight to preserve indigenous culture. Discover the power and mystery within its pages.
History Through Fiction Partners with The History Shelf!
We’re excited to announce a new chapter for our Historical Readers Club!
History Through Fiction has officially partnered with The History Shelf, a trusted and widely followed source for in-depth, thoughtful book reviews. Beginning next month, club members will enjoy exclusive written reviews from The History Shelf—available only through your membership.
Announcing our Third Annual Short Story Contest
History Through Fiction is thrilled to announce our Third Annual Short Story Contest! Writers of historical fiction—this is your chance to share your work, receive personalized editorial feedback, and potentially see your story in print.
Iron-Hand
Augustus II, known as "the Strong," was a paradoxical ruler excelling in cultural achievements but failing in war and politics. Ascending to power in Saxony and Poland, his reign saw religious tensions, military defeats, and lavish cultural projects. Inspired by Louis XIV, Augustus transformed Dresden into a Baroque masterpiece, amassing porcelain, live menageries, and taxidermy collections. Despite his cultural legacy, his reign left debts and political challenges for his successor.
The History of Jesters
Darryl King's blog, The History of Jesters, explores the evolution of jesters from ancient Egypt to modern entertainment. Known for their wit and influence, jesters entertained and critiqued rulers, with figures like Twisty Pole and Will Sommers standing out. King, founder of Jester Planet and author of the In All Jest series, celebrates their enduring legacy.
A Crown Divided
Grace E. Turton's blog post, A Crown Divided, explores the enduring religious divisions in Britain, rooted in the English Reformation under Henry VIII. It examines the political and social consequences of shifting religious policies through the Tudor and Stuart reigns, highlighting key events like the Reformation, Elizabeth I's Religious Settlement, and the Glorious Revolution. These divisions shaped British history, with lasting impacts still evident today.
Introducing HTF Romance and HTF Fantasy
Exciting news from History Through Fiction! We're thrilled to announce the launch of our new imprints, HTF Romance and HTF Fantasy. Dive into captivating stories that blend historical authenticity with imaginative storytelling. Submissions are open year-round.
Best New Historical Fiction - April 2025
March into history with our top picks for new historical fiction! This month, explore tales that span from the Dust Bowl to the Civil War, each weaving unforgettable stories of resilience, love, and intrigue. Discover how these narratives echo with warnings and hopes for our world today.
Press Release - Forsberg Named Community Engagement and Development Lead
History Through Fiction is excited to announce Jillian Forsberg as the new Community Engagement and Development Lead. A historian, author, and passionate advocate for historical storytelling, Jillian will play a key role in growing the Manuscript Matchup Beta Reader Program and fostering a collaborative environment for authors and readers.
Honky-Tonk Heaven: Bandera, Texas
Arkey Blue's Silver Dollar Saloon in Bandera, Texas, embodies the spirit of Texas Hill Country, country music, and Western culture. Established in the 1920s, it became a hub for honky-tonk music under Arkey Juenke in 1968. Hosting legends like Willie Nelson and George Strait, its rustic charm, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere make it a timeless haven for music lovers and cowboys alike.
Cowboys and Camels?
The U.S. Army Camel Corps experiment at Camp Verde, Texas, introduced camels to the American West in the mid-1800s to address challenges of westward expansion. Despite their transport efficiency, camels were unpopular due to their smell and behavior. The Civil War ended the experiment, but the camels’ legacy includes wild herds, historical inspiration, and the enduring legend of the ghostly “Red Ghost.”
The Pioneer Women of Bandera, Texas: Inspiration for The Wretched and Undone by J. E. Weiner
"The Pioneer Women of Bandera, Texas: Inspiration for The Wretched and Undone by J. E. Weiner" highlights the courageous women who defied traditional roles to shape the American West. Drawing from J. Marvin Hunter's 1922 oral histories, it features stories of women like Constantina Adamietz and Martha "Mattie" Jones, who faced hardships, fear, and isolation but also found moments of joy. These narratives inspired characters in Weiner's novel, honoring the resilience of Bandera's pioneer women.
Announcing the Next Round of Manuscript Matchup: April - June 2025
Join the Manuscript Matchup from April to June 2025, hosted by History Through Fiction. Connect with fellow writers, receive invaluable feedback, and enhance your manuscript. Even without a manuscript, apply to be a beta reader. Don't miss this chance for growth and community.
Boots on the Ground: Researching Historical Fiction IRL
In "Boots on the Ground: Researching Historical Fiction IRL," Valerie Nieman shares her immersive journey through Scotland to authentically capture the setting for her novel, "Upon the Corner of the Moon." By hiking the Highlands and engaging with locals, she enriched her storytelling with vivid details and historical insights, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of firsthand experience in writing historical fiction.
Best New Historical Fiction - March 2025
March into history with our top picks for new historical fiction! This month, explore tales that span from the Dust Bowl to the Civil War, each weaving unforgettable stories of resilience, love, and intrigue. Discover how these narratives echo with warnings and hopes for our world today.
The Rise and Fall of the USSR
Grace E. Turton's article explores the rise and fall of the USSR, highlighting Joseph Stalin's pivotal role. Stalin's leadership was marked by power struggles, brutal policies, and the implementation of Five-Year Plans. His reign led to significant events like the Great Terror, World War II, and the Cold War. Ultimately, Mikhail Gorbachev's reforms and the USSR's economic struggles contributed to its dissolution in 1991.
The Origins of the USSR
Grace E. Turton's article "The Origins of the USSR" explores the formation of the USSR, highlighting key figures like Lenin and Trotsky, who built on Marx and Engels' ideas. The article traces the downfall of Tsarist Russia, catalyzed by military defeats and social unrest, leading to the 1917 revolutions. Lenin's Bolsheviks eventually seized power, establishing a communist regime. The Russian Civil War solidified Bolshevik control, culminating in the creation of the USSR, setting the stage for Stalin's rise.
Announcing the Historical Readers Club
Unlock the world of historical fiction with the Historical Readers Club, brought to you by History Through Fiction. For just $12 a year, enjoy exclusive content crafted by talented authors, blending fact and fiction for both entertainment and education. Members gain…
Meet the Intern: Zipporah. K.
Simple intelligent girls win, am I right? Hi, I’m Zipporah Kuteesa (Zee), a writer and advocate with a First Class degree in Mass Communication. I write stories and blogs that put bullies to shame and manage projects for Mercy Hands Uganda. A bully hates to see me coming!
Harrison Hurst on Ibrahim ibn Yaqub and his award-winning story “The Dog Star"
This interview with Harrison Hurst explores Ibrahim ibn Yaqub, a 10th-century Sephardic Jewish explorer, and his influence on Hurst’s story "The Dog Star." The narrative follows Yaqub's trade endeavors in Hedeby, blending historical accounts with fiction. Hurst emphasizes authenticity and historical accuracy in storytelling. As a historian and writer, he aims to create meaningful art.