HTF PUBLISHING SIGNS AUTHOR LYNNLEE SCHMIDT; WILL PUBLISH DEBUT NOVEL OPERATION OKAPI ON JULY 27, 2027

LynnLee Schmidt, author of Operation Okapi

History Through Fiction Publishing is delighted to announce that LynnLee Schmidt has signed a publishing contract for her debut novel, Operation Okapi.

Operation Okapi is a dual-timeline narrative that spans two eras of twentieth-century Congo. It explores life under Belgian colonial rule and its fraught aftermath through the lens of okapi conservation. The novel follows Lyda Johnson as she grieves the loss of her husband and journeys to colonized Congo. There she sets out to establish an okapi sanctuary, but must protect it against suspicion and destruction at the hands of colonial officials.

Decades later, in the 1960s, Congo is newly independent. Clarke Abbott, a French mercenary with a violent past, is hired to escort a herd of okapis through rebel territory. It is a journey that will put his humanity to the test as morals and money collide.

Combining true historical events with universal truths about grief, healing, and courage, Operation Okapi explores the often-overlooked intersection between animal conservation and the human fight against oppressive forces. In doing so, it shows how our relationships with animals bring us closer to ourselves and the people around us.

Before taking up the mantle of author, Schmidt built a long and varied career, from marketing to zookeeping. Away from her writing desk, Schmidt leads the team at Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Operation Okapi intertwines Schmidt’s profound love for animals with her enchanting storytelling.

Colin Mustful, founder and publisher of History Through Fiction, is excited about this new novel on HTF’s list and said, “At its heart, Operation Okapi shows how our connection to the natural world can help us process painful and profound emotions like grief. I can’t wait for Schmidt to introduce our readers to the incredible and almost mystical okapi.” The okapi, a mammal native to Congo, has markings like a zebra and a face like a giraffe.

Operation Okapi will be published in paperback, hardcover and eBook editions by HTF Publishing on July 27, 2027. Keep an eye out for the cover reveal and pre-order details for the novel in the lead-up to publication.