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A researcher's rest journal: Some writing done!
In this weekly series A researcher’s rest journal, intern Ian Tan managed to insert a lull in between endless research to get some long-awaited writing done. Sometimes, a break from relentless time scouring e-library textbooks and Reddit discussions is simply that - time set aside to write!
What did he write though? Find out in the post! And more importantly, what have you been writing lately?
Book & Author Spotlight: Ribbon of Dreams by Randy O’Brien
Step into 1970s Tennessee with Randy O’Brien’s Ribbon of Dreams, a heartfelt coming-of-age story about identity, family, and hope. As teenager Skid navigates love, loss, and a changing America, he faces the tension between his stepfather’s expectations and his own creative ambitions. With vivid portraits of rural life, social upheaval, and the aftermath of the Vietnam War, Ribbon of Dreams captures the bittersweet journey of growing up and finding your place in the world.
A researcher’s rest journal: Indulgence week
How often do we historical writers rest in a way that isn’t in some way productive, but solely indulgent? In this week’s journal entry, Ian Tan shares about his first time watching the Pirates of the Caribbean series and his latest favorite movie Rango, and how recharging it can occasionally be to just watch movies.
He also shares about buying more books (historical fiction, you got it), and drops some impressive titles that you might want to check out, if you have not heard of them. From new movies to new books, sometimes we just need to indulge some freshness before we get back to our routine.
How do you indulge?
Rags of Time: Michael Ward’s Mystery in 17th-Century London
Historical crime writer Michael Ward brings 17th-century London to life in Rags of Time, blending political turmoil, vivid detail, and a reluctant sleuth.
Best New Historical Fiction - March 2026
From ancient Egypt to World War II resistance, from the Irish War of Independence to the Australian outback and Victorian Boston, March’s best new historical fiction delivers sweeping stories of courage, sacrifice, love, and resilience. Discover five unforgettable novels that illuminate the past—and the human heart.
A researcher’s rest journal: Rereading and a cover reveal
What happens when a researcher slows down, rereads a favorite novel, and reflects on the balance between historical accuracy and creative freedom? In this week’s journal entry, Ian Tan shares moments of rest, insights from revisiting Ken Follett’s The Evening and the Morning, and thoughtful takeaways from an exclusive cover reveal event.
From medieval social dynamics to audiobook collaboration—and a powerful reminder that historical fiction is, at its heart, about storytelling—this post is full of fresh perspective. Plus, there’s a journal question for writers and a sneak peek at an exciting upcoming release.
Life in a “Back-to-Back” House in Northern England
Chances are good that anyone who can trace their heritage to working-class people in Northern England had at least a few ancestors who lived in “back-to-back” housing.
These cramped, terraced houses were home to millions of people from the late eighteenth century through the early twentieth century, particularly throughout the North of England and parts of the Midlands.
A Researcher’s Rest Journal: An Introduction
In A Researcher’s Rest Journal, Ian Tan reflects on the familiar rhythm of writers and historians who can spend endless hours chasing research threads—through archives, podcasts, JSTOR, Reddit, and meticulously organized folders—while quietly neglecting rest, leisure reading, and creative exploration. This thoughtful introduction invites fellow scholars and storytellers to consider the discipline of stepping back: to read for pleasure, reconnect with story ideas, and find a healthier balance between research and renewal.
Northern England’s Industrial Legacy
Northern England’s industrial past comes alive at Quarry Bank Mill, a beautifully preserved cotton mill museum in Cheshire. Follow Carol Cram on a visit exploring the mill’s history, machinery, and the harsh realities faced by workers—especially children.
“Let’s Go Exploring!”: An American Cartoonist’s Farewell and a Send-off into New Beginnings, Dec 31, 1995
On December 31, 1995, Bill Watterson ended his beloved comic strip Calvin and Hobbes, choosing artistic integrity over commercialization. Facing industry pressures and burnout, Watterson’s farewell encouraged readers to embrace new beginnings, creativity, and courage—reminding us that endings can be beautiful opportunities to explore fresh possibilities.
Meet the Intern: Ian Tan
From fairy tales and encyclopedias to medieval Italy and the Natchez Trace, Ian Tan’s path to historical fiction has been shaped by curiosity, empathy, and a deep love of story. In this Meet the Intern post, Ian reflects on the books that first transported him, the authors who shaped his editorial philosophy, and why honoring both the beauty and the pain of history matters. Join us in welcoming Ian to History Through Fiction this spring.
Learning to Stay with the Work: A Writer’s Journey Through Revision
Lisa E. Oakley reflects on her journey from genealogist to historical fiction writer, highlighting the challenges of revising her debut novel. Guided by supportive mentors and editors, she learns to embrace feedback, overcome self-doubt, and grow as a writer. Her story emphasizes perseverance, community, and the transformative power of revision in the creative process.
Best New Historical Fiction - February 2026
February 2026 delivers an extraordinary slate of historical fiction—novels that span centuries, continents, and conflicts while asking urgent questions about power, survival, and voice. From the frozen edges of the eighteenth-century Arctic to the storm-battered hills of 1930s Jamaica, from covert psychological warfare in World War II to the redemptive force of music in Victorian England, these books showcase the genre at its most ambitious and emotionally resonant. Whether driven by greed, resistance, love, or collective courage, each of these stories reminds us why historical fiction matters: it doesn’t just revisit the past—it interrogates it.
Travelers in a Psychedelic Universe
A late-night pizza delivery. A cemetery by the river. A sound that shouldn’t exist—and a moment when reality begins to slip.
In this reflective and haunting essay, Karla Cruise explores the terror and allure of mystical journeys—whether sparked by psychedelics, fasting, or deep immersion in the natural world. Drawing on personal anecdote, cultural history, and the themes behind her newly released novel The Water Lilies of Mishipeshu, Cruise asks why encounters with the unknown so often require a passage through darkness—and what we are willing to risk for the possibility of transformation.
Cover Reveal: The Blood of Englishmen
Unveiling the striking cover of The Blood of Englishmen, designed by Steph Ross! Discover a powerful collection of prize-winning tales that span continents and centuries, exploring resilience, belief, and transformation with History Through Fiction’s second short story anthology. Don’t miss our virtual launch celebration on March 3, 2026, for live readings and exclusive discounts!
Book & Author Spotlight: Victor’s Blessing by Barbara Sontheimer
In this Book & Author Spotlight, we explore Victor’s Blessing by Barbara Sontheimer—an award-recognized saga featuring an unforgettable hero—and talk with the author about research, sacrifice, and why some endings can’t be changed.
HTF Publishing Signs Author Tim Schooley; Will Publish The Circus of the Vanishing Elephant on September 15, 2026
We’re thrilled to announce that HTF Publishing has signed Tim Schooley, author of The Wool Translator, for his highly anticipated second novel, The Circus of the Vanishing Elephant, releasing September 15, 2026. Drawing on his own early years as a circus clown and set against the vibrant yet turbulent backdrop of 1974 America, Schooley’s new novel promises a captivating journey of family, loyalty, and adventure—featuring an elephant at the heart of the story. Learn more about Tim, the novel, and the shared launch with Jane D. Cairns’ Exalted Objects in our latest blog post.
Book & Author Spotlight: Perfect Cadence by Tamar Anolic
Step into the booming Los Angeles rock scene of 1978 with Tamar Anolic’s newest novel, Perfect Cadence—a gripping story of two small-town musicians who chase fame, fortune, and a dream that threatens to consume them. Featuring a behind-the-scenes interview with the author, this spotlight explores the inspirations, research, and emotional stakes behind a novel that blends glamour with grit.
Best New Historical Fiction - January 2026
Step into the past with our curated picks for the most captivating historical fiction of January 2026. From time-spanning botanical mysteries and swashbuckling pirate adventures to post-war Hollywood intrigue and intimate portraits of iconic figures, Best New Historical Fiction – January 2026 has something for every history lover. Discover your next unputdownable read today.
History Through Fiction: Purpose & Direction for 2026
As 2025 comes to a close, History Through Fiction enters a new chapter. In this post, Founder and Editor Colin Mustful reflects on the growth of the press, shares key milestones from the past year, and outlines a clear, sustainable vision for 2026. From expanded publishing programs and reader initiatives to new workshops, events, and the inaugural History Through Fiction Conference, this statement offers a transparent look at where HTF is headed—and why historically grounded storytelling remains at the heart of everything we do.