Blog
Cover Reveal! The Boy with the Jade by Charles Bush
We are thrilled to reveal the stunning cover for The Boy with the Jade, the highly anticipated historical novel by Charles Bush—coming September 16, 2025, from HTF Publishing.
The Aziola’s Cry Wins Gold in Historical Fiction at 2025 IBPA Book Awards
We’re proud to announce that The Aziola’s Cry by Ezra Harker Shaw is gold winner of the 2025 IBPA Book Award for Historical Fiction!
Go On Pretending: From Stalin’s Doctors Plot to Soviet Central Television
Alina Adams post explores the creation of Dennis Kagan, a fictional Soviet media elite in the novel “Go On Pretending,” inspired by real-life Soviet propagandist Vladimir Pozner. Through Kagan’s story—shaped by personal trauma from Stalin’s Doctors Plot and cynical opportunism—the post examines Soviet media manipulation, propaganda, and shifting allegiances. Ultimately, Kagan’s character highlights how survival and self-interest often outweighed ideology in the USSR’s media landscape.
The Rhino Keeper Named a Finalist for the Midwest Book Awards
We’re thrilled to announce that The Rhino Keeper by Jillian Forsberg has been named a finalist for the 2025 Midwest Book Awards in the Historical Fiction category! Published by History Through Fiction, The Rhino Keeper is a powerful exploration of empathy and displacement set against the backdrop of 18th-century Europe—and it’s receiving well-deserved recognition.
Go On Pretending: African-Americans and the USSR
Alina Adams explores the complex relationship between African-Americans and the USSR, focusing on Paul Robeson’s admiration for Stalin and the Soviet Union’s supposed racial equality. Through her novel’s characters, Adams highlights how some African-Americans, like Robeson, overlooked Soviet atrocities in hopes of a better life, only to confront harsh realities. The story questions the cost of “going on pretending” about utopian ideals.
Best New Historical Fiction - May 2025
Happy May! From the early 20th century fashion industry to the sweeping history of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, discover our top picks for the best new historical fiction this month.
Women at War: Media Coverage Then… and Now
Explore the evolving portrayal of women in war, contrasting historical male-focused narratives with increasing recognition of women’s roles. Alina Adams highlights her novels, “My Mother’s Secret” and “Go On Pretending,” which spotlight women in underrepresented conflicts like the Spanish Civil War and Rojava Revolution. Adams critiques media coverage of women in war, noting progress yet lingering novelty in their portrayal. She advocates for equal focus on women’s experiences and contributions, akin to the treatment of men in similar contexts.
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.