HTF PUBLISHING SIGNS AUTHOR BARBARA MARSHAK; WILL PUBLISH THE LAST FUGITIVE ON JANUARY 12, 2027
Author Barbara Marshak
Minneapolis, MN – HTF Publishing is pleased to announce that award-winning writer, conference speaker, and photographer Barbara Marshak has signed a publishing contract for her forthcoming novel, The Last Fugitive, scheduled for release on January 12, 2027.
The chilling mystery-thriller will be Marshak’s sixth novel, inspired by Sara Jane Olson, former member of the 1970s militant Symbionese Liberation Army (SLA). Following the group’s disbandment, Olson’s arrest over two decades later proved controversial given her humanitarian contributions to her St. Paul community under a new identity.
The Last Fugitive acts as Marshak’s vehicle for navigating complex questions: What is the right way to face accountability for past harm caused? How many would do the responsible thing, at the cost of their comforts and security?
Marshak explores both this theme and the true story with sensitivity and respect, consulting various sources and professional references to understand it properly. It’s the same care found in her other novels like Painted Skies and Seeds of Salton, both honor-winning works among other books and short stories. These include recognition from The BookFest Awards, a residency at Devils Tower National Monument, and even a place in the HTF Short Story Contest with the longlisted piece A Voice in the Ravine.
Beyond the literary skill reflected in these awards, the reading and writing community’s appreciation of Marshak also stems from her eagerness to share her camaraderie and experiences at multiple book events and writers’ conferences. Her down-to-earth nature is also reflected in her love for her Minnesotan home, which carries deep family roots.
In her own space, Marshak enjoys a quiet, simple life with her husband John, visited by six grown children and thirteen grandchildren, who know them affectionately as Nana and Papa.
There, her creativity continues to thrive not just in the form of writing, but also in pottery, painting, and photography. She has alluded that her inspiration comes from these various arts, as well as cowboy boots, rocks, yellow labs, the promises of God, and of course, history.
The Last Fugitive will be available in paperback, hardcover, and eBook formats through HTF Publishing beginning January 12, 2027. Pre-orders and media materials will be released in fall 2026.