Season 9, Episode 5 - Sarah Landenwich

Sep 29

In this intriguing episode of History Through Fiction the podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews Sarah Landenwich, author of The Fire Concerto. Discover the story of Clara Bishop, a former piano prodigy drawn into a historical mystery after inheriting a 19th-century metronome linked to a famous composer’s death. Sarah discusses blending fact and fiction, the challenges of writing about classical music, and her journey to publication. Tune in for insights on craft, musical ancestry, and the power of perseverance in writing.

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**About the Author**

Sarah Landenwich is a writer, pianist, and former community college instructor whose fascination with musical ancestry inspired her novel, The Fire Concerto. Drawing on her own lineage as a “descendant” of Franz Liszt, Sarah explores the complexities of mentorship, trauma, and artistic legacy. Her work delves into the lives of women musicians across centuries, challenging familiar narratives and celebrating the profound, lasting impact of teachers—both good and bad.

**"This is a brilliant debut, filled with remarkable and haunting characters, gorgeous scenes, and enthralling writing about music on par with James Baldwin’s masterpiece Sonny’s Blues."**

-Paul Grinerauthor of *The Book of Otto and Liam*

After a tragic fire ends her promising piano career, Clara Bishop inherits a mysterious 19th-century metronome from her late mentor. As she unravels its secrets, Clara is drawn into the unsolved murder of composer Aleksander Starza and the fate of pianist Constantia Pleyel. Her search for truth challenges history—and offers Clara a chance at redemption and a new beginning.

Get the Book

PodcastHistory Through FictionSarah LandenwichThe Fire Concerto

Colin Mustful

Colin Mustful is the founder and editor of History Through Fiction, an independent press dedicated to publishing historical narratives rooted in factual events and compelling characters. A celebrated author and historian whose novel “Reclaiming Mni Sota” recently won the Midwest Book Award for Literary/Contemporary/Historical Fiction, Mustful has penned five historical novels that delve into the complex eras of settler-colonialism and Native American displacement. Combining his interests in history and writing, Mustful holds a Master of Arts in history and a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing. Residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota, he enjoys running, playing soccer, and believes deeply in the power of understanding history to shape a just and sustainable future.