A Writing Revolution
History Through Fiction Conference
March 28-29, 2026, Wylie Center & Tupper Manor, Beverly, MA
Join us for the History Through Fiction Conference, a unique gathering of writers and history enthusiasts, taking place March 28-29, 2026, at the beautiful Wylie Center & Tupper Manor at Endicott College in Beverly, MA. Hosted by History Through Fiction, this conference coincides with the United States Semiquincentennial, embracing the theme "A Writing Revolution."
Discover the Perfect Venue for Your Writing Conference
Join us at the Wylie Center at Tupper Manor, nestled on Boston’s scenic North Shore. This historic yet modern venue offers the ideal setting for a writing revolution.
Wylie Center & Tupper Manor at Endicott College consists of multiple buildings that all share a unique history, interwoven with the growth and history of this great New England setting. Immerse yourself in the charm of Beverly North Shore while enjoying a comfortable and engaging experience.
The Wylie Center at Tupper Manor blends tradition with innovation, inspiring creativity and collaboration. Located just 20 miles from Logan International Airport, it’s easily accessible for all attendees.
A Writing Revolution
The theme "A Writing Revolution" celebrates the transformative power of storytelling. As we mark the United States Semiquincentennial in 2026, this theme invites writers to explore how narratives can shape our understanding of history and influence the present. Historical fiction offers a unique lens to revisit the past, uncovering untold stories and giving voice to diverse perspectives. By reimagining history, writers can inspire change and spark new conversations about our shared future. This theme is a call to action for writers to craft stories that challenge, enlighten, and revolutionize the way we perceive both history and the world today.
Keynote Speaker
We are thrilled to welcome Finola Austin, author of "Bronte's Mistress," as our keynote speaker. Prepare to be inspired by her insights into the world of historical fiction.
Finola Austin, born in Gravesend, England, moved to Whitehead, Northern Ireland, at five. She attended Methodist College Belfast for its drama and Latin offerings. Returning to England, she earned a BA in Classics & English and an MSt in English Literature from Oxford. Finola founded the Secret Victorianist blog and published Brontë’s Mistress in 2020. She works in digital advertising and lives in Brooklyn with her cat, Arabella.
Special Guests
We’re excited to welcome an incredible lineup of special guests. This event will feature a diverse group of authors, editors, publishers, podcasters, and publicists, each bringing unique insights into the world of historical fiction.
Our own talented authors from History Through Fiction and HTF Publishing will also be present, sharing their experiences and expertise. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with industry leaders and fellow enthusiasts, all passionate about the power of storytelling to transform history and inspire change. Don’t miss out on this chance to engage with some of the brightest minds in the field!
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Sarah Penner
Sarah Penner is the New York Times and internationally bestselling author of The Lost Apothecary and The London Séance Society. Her books have been translated into more than forty languages and her debut, The Lost Apothecary, has sold over one million copies worldwide.
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Madeline Martin
Madeline Martin is a New York Times, USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly, and internationally bestselling author of historical fiction and historical romance with books that have been translated into over twenty-five different languages.
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Addison Armstrong
Addison Armstrong is the author of The Light of Luna Park and The War Librarian. With a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and Language & Literacy Studies and a Master’s in Reading Education, Armstrong teaches English language learners in Queens, New York.
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Jillian Forsberg
HTF Author, The Porcelain Menagerie, The Rhino Keeper
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Elizabeth R. Andersen
HTF Author, Forthcoming
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Amanda Symes
HTF Editor
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J. E. Weiner
HTF Author, The Wretched and Undone
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Carol Cram
HTF Author, Forthcoming
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Alina Adams
HTF Author, Go On Pretending, My Mother’s Secret
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C.W. Towarnicki
HTF Author, Notes from a Deserter
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Eric Z. Weintraub
HTF Author, South of Sepharad
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Patricia Bernstein
HTF Author, A Noble Cunning
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Ron Blumenfeld
HTF Author, The King’s Anatomist
Virtual Guests (Appearing via Zoom)
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Marthese Fenech
Marthese Fenech is a best-selling author of epic historical novels set in 16th-century Malta and Türkiye and has written a TV pilot based on her books.
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Georgie Blalock
Georgie Blalock writes historical fiction and romance, combining her love for history and period films. She also writes under the name Georgie Lee.
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Edwina Kiernan
Edwina Kiernan is the Christian author of eight novels, including four award-winners, known for crafting hope-infused historical tales.
Agent Pitch Sessions
Take advantage of a unique opportunity to meet with top literary agents. This is your chance to pitch your work, gain valuable insights, and receive feedback from industry professionals who are passionate about historical fiction.
Connecting with literary agents can be a game-changer for your writing career. They can offer guidance, help refine your manuscript, and potentially open doors to publishing opportunities. Don't miss this chance to network with experts who can help you navigate the publishing world and bring your stories to a wider audience.
List of Agents and Editors
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Kate McKean (in-person)
Kate McKean is a literary agent at Howard Morhaim Literary Agency, where she has represented diverse clients like Daniel M. Lavery and Alix E. Harrow since 2006. She discovered her passion for this career during MFA workshops. Kate also writes "Agents & Books" and lives in Brooklyn.
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Annie Bomke (virtual)
Annie Bomke, a literary agent with over a decade of experience, represents diverse genres, including lit/erary horror and historical fiction. Known for her keen eye, she champions quality writing and enjoys reading, walking, and dancing.
Sponsorship Opportunities for the History Through Fiction Conference
Capture the attention of a highly targeted niche audience by sponsoring the History Through Fiction Conference. With our theme, "A Writing Revolution," your brand will be showcased to a select group of historical fiction writers and readers, offering a unique chance for meaningful engagement.
With attendance limited to about sixty attendees, your sponsorship ensures direct access to passionate individuals deeply invested in historical fiction. This intimate setting allows for personalized interactions, making your brand stand out and resonate with this dedicated community.
Our sponsorship packages offer various ways to connect, from delivering speech before the keynote, to displaying your materials in the swag bags or Reader Room. Each option is designed to maximize your brand's visibility and impact.
Seize this opportunity to align your brand with a revolutionary event that celebrates the power of storytelling. Secure your sponsorship today and make a lasting impression on an audience that values history and narrative.
$500 - Premium Sponsor (1 spot available)
Deliver a ten-minute speech at the Keynote, include your marketing materials in the swag bag, and enjoy prominent placement on our website and program.
$300 - Revolutionary Sponsor (2 spots available)
Deliver a pre-recorded three-minute video message displayed on our Conference website, include your marketing materials in the swag bag, and enjoy prominent placement on our website and program.
$150 - Conference Sponsor (6 spots available)
Include your marketing materials in the swag bag and secure placement on both the program and website.
$100 - Book Signing (TBD)
Reserve a table in the exhibitor hall/room to sign and sell your books during exhibit hall hours while also having an unmanned exhibit throughout the conference.
$50 - Reader Room Display (TBD)
Showcase your book and marketing materials continuously in the Reader Room.
$50 - Session Sponsor (12 spots available)
Gain recognition in the program and session introduction, plus distribute your marketing materials during a session.
To reserve your sponsorship, email us at editor@historythroughfiction.com
Manuscript Contest
Showcase your talent in our manuscript contest. Submit the first fifty pages of your historical manuscript for a chance to win a $200 cash prize, speak at the final dinner, and gain serious consideration for a traditional publishing contract with History Through Fiction. This is a unique opportunity to have your work recognized and propel your writing career forward. Don't miss out on this chance to make your mark in the world of historical fiction!
Conference Schedule
at a glance
Pre-Conference (March 28, 2026)
Historical Outing/Tour: Explore local history with a special tour (separate registration required).
Networking/Social Event: Connect with fellow attendees at a local bookstore or rented restaurant space.
Day 1—March 29, 2026
Networking/Book Exchange: All-day book exchange near the water station.
8:30am - 9:15am: Opening Remarks/Welcome
9:30am - 10:30am: Panels 1 & 2
10:45am - 11:45am: Panel 3 & Workshop 1
11:45am - 1:15pm: Lunch Break
1:15pm - 2:15pm: Panels 4 & 5
2:30pm - 3:30pm: Panel 6 & Workshop 2
3:45pm - 5:00pm: One-on-One Meetings with HTF Authors & Pitch Sessions with Agents (pre-registration required)
5:30pm - 7:30pm: Dinner & Keynote Speech
Day 2—March 30, 2026
Networking/Book Exchange: Continues all day.
8:30am - 9:30am: Panels 7 & 8
9:45am - 10:45am: Panels 9 & Workshop 3
11am - 11:45am: Open Mic (pre-registration required)
11:45am - 1:15pm: Lunch Break
1:15pm - 2:15pm: Panels 10 & 11
2:30pm - 3:30pm: Panel 12 & Workshop 4
3:30pm - 5:00pm: Critique Sessions & Exhibit Hall Open
5:30pm - 7:30pm: Dinner, Manuscript Winner Announcement, Closing Remarks
All Registrations Include…
Two dinners
Access to all panels and workshops
Opportunity to schedule an open mic session
One-on-one meeting with an HTF author
Registration Add-Ons
Pre-conference historical outing
Pre-conference social event
Agent pitch session
Manuscript contest
Manuscript and query critique
Join us for an unforgettable experience where history and fiction come together to ignite change and inspire revolutions in writing. Register now and be part of the History Through Fiction Conference: A Writing Revolution!
Early Bird Registration is open from June 1, 2025, to November 30, 2025. Starting December 1, 2025, the full price registration will be $450. Hurry and grab the special early bird price as seats are filling up fast. To ensure a high-quality conference, registration is limited to 50 attendees.