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."

Call for Proposals – Coming Soon –

Call for Proposals – Coming Soon –

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!

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Jillian Forsberg

    HTF Author, The Porcelain Menagerie, The Rhino Keeper

  • Elizabeth R. Andersen

    HTF Author, Forthcoming

  • Amanda Symes

    HTF Editor

  • J. E. Weiner

    HTF Author, The Wretched and Undone

  • Carol Cram

    HTF Author, Forthcoming

  • Alina Adams

    HTF Author, Go On Pretending, My Mother’s Secret

  • C.W. Towarnicki

    HTF Author, Notes from a Deserter

  • Eric Z. Weintraub

    HTF Author, South of Sepharad

  • Patricia Bernstein

    HTF Author, A Noble Cunning

  • Ron Blumenfeld

    HTF Author, The King’s Anatomist

Virtual Guests (Appearing via Zoom)

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Rachel McMillan (virtual)

    Rachel McMillan is a multi-published author, publishing professional, and sought-after speaker. With over 20 years in the industry, she brings expertise in sales, marketing, editing, and agenting. Known for her industry savvy and collaborative approach, Rachel helps authors build long-term careers while pairing them with the right editorial candidates.

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!

Schedule at a Glance

Friday, March 27 - Pre-Conference

  • 4pm - Private tour of the Cabot House Museum and a walking tour of Revolutionary and Witch Hunt history of the local area - Registration Required

  • 6pm - 8pm The Fiction Rebellion - Join us for a social rendevous at the Bookshop of Beverly Farms - No Registration Required

Saturday, March 28 – Day 1

  • All Day – Networking & Book Exchange (The Salon)
    Connect with fellow writers, swap books, and spark new ideas—all in this dedicated space for conversation and community.

  • 8:30am - 9:15am – Opening Remarks (Room Name)
    Speaker: Sarah Penner

  • 9:30am - 10:30am – Panels
    Panel 1: (Panel Title with Finola Austin and xxxxx) (Room Name)
    Panel 2: (Panel Title with HTF Authors)

  • 10:45am - 11:45am – Workshops
    Workshop 1: (Workshop title with Madeline Martin) (Room Name)
    Workshop 2: (Workshop title with HTF authors) (Room Name)

  • 11:45am - 1:15pm – Lunch Break

  • 1:15pm - 2:15pm – Panels
    Panel 3: (Title of Panel moderated by Sarah Penner) (Room Name)
    Panel 4: (Title of Panel moderated by HTF) (Room Name)

  • 2:30pm - 3:30pm – Special Guest Presentation (Room Name)
    Speaker: Addison Armstrong

  • 3:45pm - 5:00pm – Meetings
    One-on-Ones with HTF Authors (Room Name) Registration Required
    PitchSessions with Agents (Room Name) Registration Required
    AGENT in-person with Kate McKean
    AGENT Zoom with Annie Bomke
    AGENT Zoom with Rachel McMillan

  • 5:30pm - 7:30pm – Keynote Speech (Includes Dinner) (Room Name)
    Speaker: Finola Austin

Sunday, March 29 – Day 2

  • All Day – Networking & Book Exchange (The Salon)
    Connect with fellow writers, swap books, and spark new ideas—all in this dedicated space for conversation and community.

  • 8:30am - 9:30am – Panels 6 & 7
    Panel 6: (Panel Title moderated by Madeline Martin) (Room Name)
    Panel 7: (Panel Title moderated by Addison Armstrong) (Room Name)

  • 9:45am - 10:45am – Workshop
    Workshop 4: (Workshop title with Sarah Penner) (Room Name)

  • 11am - 11:45am – Open Mic & Virtual Presentation
    Open Mic (Room Name) Registration Required
    Virtual Guest Presentation Speaker: (Presentation Title with Edwina Kiernan) (Room Name)

  • 11:45am - 1:15pm – Lunch Break

  • 1:15pm - 2:15pm – Virtual Guest Sessions
    Presentation/Workshop: (Workshop title with Marthese Fenech) (Room Name)
    Presentation/Workshop: (Workshop title with Georgie Blalock) (Room Name)

  • 2:30pm - 3:30pm – Panel 10 & Workshop 6
    Panel 10: (Panel Title with HTF Authors) (Room Name)
    Workshop 6: (Workshop Title with Finola Austin) (Room Name)

  • 3:30pm - 5:00pm – Critique Sessions & Exhibit Hall
    Critique Sessions (Room Names) Registration Required
    Exhibit Hall Open (Room Name) Registration Required

  • 5:30pm - 7:30pm – Closing Remarks (Includes Dinner) (Room Name)
    Speaker: Madeline Martin

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
$450.00
One time
$225.00
For 2 months

Early Bird Registration is open from August 1, 2025, to August 31, 2025. Starting September 1, 2025, the full price registration will be $525. 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.

 FAQs

  • The 2026 History Through Fiction Conference: A Writing Revolution will be held March 28–29, 2026, at the Wylie Center & Tupper Manor at Endicott College in Beverly, MA.

  • Writers, readers, historians, educators, and anyone who loves historical fiction! Whether you're a seasoned author or a curious reader, there’s something for everyone.

  • At this time, the conference is in-person only. We’ve chosen to focus all of our energy on creating a rich, immersive, and community-centered experience onsite. We believe that true creative revolutions happen face-to-face—in the hallways between sessions, during book signings, and over shared meals. We hope you’ll join us in person in Beverly, MA!

  • Registration will open August 1, 2025. You can register through our clicking the registration button on the very top of this page. Registration is limited.

  • Not at all! While we encourage attendees to consider staying on-site for convenience and community, lodging at the Wylie Center or nearby accommodations is entirely optional. You're welcome to book a hotel, Airbnb, or make other arrangements that suit your needs.

  • Absolutely! The Exhibit Hall, also known as The Revolution Emporium, will feature book signings and sales from participating authors and vendors.

  • Yes! Your registration includes two group dinners (one each evening), daily lunch on-site, and access to a snack and beverage station that will be available throughout the conference. We’re committed to keeping you well-fed and energized so you can focus on the conversations, connections, and creativity.

  • The event is hosted by History Through Fiction, an independent press committed to publishing engaging and informative historical fiction.

  • If you have any more questions, please contact Colin Mustful, Chairperson of the conference, at editor@historythroughfiction.com