History Through Fiction - The Podcast: Recent Episodes
History Through Fiction
History Through Fiction founder and editor Colin Mustful talks with historical novelists about their craft of weaving history and fiction to create engaging, historically detailed stories.
This episode is sponsored by Anne Dean, author of Far Side of Revenge – Filled with captivating, complex characters, Far Side of Revenge is a remarkable feat of storytelling. The world of medieval Ireland springs to life before your eyes.In the final episode of Season 8, Alina Adams and Kyra Davis Lurie engage in a compelling conversation. They discuss the inspiration behind The Great Mann, focusing on the two Black characters from The Great Gatsby. Alina shares the "What if?" question that led to Go On Pretending. The authors address cultural appropriation, differentiating genuine representation from inauthenticity, and talk about facing pushback. They also explore the literary thirst for trauma and the interplay of history and fiction in their novels. Don't miss this insightful discussion on storytelling and authenticity.
In Season 8, Episode 12 of "History Through Fiction: The Podcast," host Colin Mustful welcomes Billie-Hanson Dupree, author of the upcoming novel Still Kicking. Inspired by her father, a World War II veteran, Billie shares the journey of crafting a historical fiction narrative that explores themes of trauma, resilience, and racial inequality. Set in post-war California, the novel follows Bill and two women navigating personal struggles and societal challenges. Billie also reflects on her writing process, historical research, and the importance of storytelling in addressing complex histories.
In Season 8, Episode 11 of "History Through Fiction: The Podcast," host Colin Mustful interviews bestselling author Sarah Penner about her latest novel, The Amalfi Curse. Sarah discusses the dual timelines of her story, featuring a present-day nautical archaeologist and a 19th-century sea witch, Mari. She shares insights into her meticulous research process, including scuba diving and consulting experts, and reflects on the challenges of drafting the novel. Sarah also teases her upcoming sequel to The Lost Apothecary.
In Season 8, Episode 9 of "History Through Fiction: The Podcast," host Colin Mustful speaks with authors Robert Dugoni, Jeff Langholz, and Chris Crabtree about their novel Hold Strong. The book explores the tragic story of the Arisan Maru, a Japanese "hellship" carrying Allied POWs during World War II. The authors discuss their 11-year journey of extensive research, including declassified documents and firsthand exploration, to uncover this untold history. They share insights into their collaborative writing process, balancing historical accuracy with compelling storytelling, and honoring the heroism of figures like Father Thomas Cecina.
In Season 8, Episode 9 of "History Through Fiction: The Podcast," host Colin Mustful sits down with C.W. Towarnicki, author of Notes from a Deserter. They delve into the intriguing story behind the gravesite on Towarnicki's property that sparked the novel's creation. The conversation explores the craft of constructing a short story cycle, offering diverse perspectives from the Civil War era. Towarnicki also shares insights on how his MFA program has shaped his writing journey and contributed to his development as an author. Tune in for a captivating discussion on history, storytelling, and the art of writing.
In Season 8, Episode 8 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews author Shara Moon about her novel Let Us March On, which tells the story of Elizabeth McDuffie, FDR's maid and an influential yet overlooked historical figure. Shara discusses Lizzie's rise from modest beginnings to her role in the White House, where she advocated for civil rights and social change. The conversation explores Lizzie's relationship with the Roosevelts, her impact on political shifts in the African American community, and the challenges of writing historical fiction. Shara also shares her passion for uncovering untold stories and offers a preview of her next project about the segregated Gold Star Mothers pilgrimage.
In Season 8, Episode 7 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews Margaret Pinard, author of Orla Rafferty Seeks Her Fortune. Margaret discusses her novel set in 1830s Scotland, exploring themes of women's independence, political reform, and social change through the lens of historical fiction. She shares her journey from international development to indie publishing, her creative process, and her passion for addressing inequality through storytelling.
In Season 8, Episode 6 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful sits down with J. E. Weiner, author of The Wretched and Undone. Dive into the southern gothic genre as Weiner discusses the sweeping history from the Civil War to WW1 that forms the backdrop of his novel. Explore the captivating and distinctive setting of the Texas Hill Country, and discover how it shapes the narrative. Join us for an insightful conversation that blends history, fiction, and the haunting beauty of the South.
In Season 8, Episode 5 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews Costanza Casati, author of "Babylonia." Casati shares her fascination with the ancient world, focusing on the legendary queen Semiramis. She discusses the vibrant world of Mesopotamia, her research surprises, and the roles of characters like Onnes, Ninus, and Ribat. Casati also reflects on her lyrical writing style, the challenges of depicting ancient times, and the significance of leopards on her book cover. The episode explores mythological retellings and the enduring lessons of female leadership.
In Season 8, Episode 4 of "History Through Fiction: The Podcast," host Colin Mustful interviews Hilary Coyne, author of "An End of Troubles," the winning entry in the History Through Fiction short story contest. The story centers on Mary, Queen of Scots, exploring her historical significance and personal struggles through the fictional lens of a servant girl named Agnes. Coyne discusses the blend of history and fiction, the themes of power and captivity, and her writing journey. She also shares insights into her upcoming novel set in Oxford and the historical context of Castle Campbell.
Join host Colin Mustful in Season 8, Episode 3 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, as he chats with N.J. Mastro, author of Solitary Walker, a novel about Mary Wollstonecraft. Discover what inspired Nancy to spotlight this pioneering figure and how she navigated the challenges of bringing Wollstonecraft's story to life. Tune in for insights on historical fiction and the enduring impact of women's stories.
In Season 8, Episode 2 of "History Through Fiction: The Podcast," host Colin Mustful chats with Jillian Forsberg about the release of the audiobook for The Rhino Keeper. Discover the fascinating story of Clara, the Indian rhino, and the immersive experience brought to life by narrator Carolyn Hewitt. Forsberg shares insights on character development and the magic of audiobooks, offering a fresh perspective on historical storytelling.
In Season 8, Episode 1 of "History Through Fiction: The Podcast," host Colin Mustful chats with author Charlotte Whitney about her novel "A Tiny Piece of Blue," set in 1934 Michigan. Whitney shares her inspiration from her family's Great Depression stories and explores themes like child trafficking. She describes her writing journey, including past works and her transition from nonfiction to historical fiction. Whitney also highlights her upcoming co-authored novel about a family's escape from slavery. The episode emphasizes the importance of community in writing and publishing.
Announcing Season 8 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, hosted by the founder of History Through Fiction Colin Mustful! This season is packed with engaging stories and fascinating insights from a diverse group of authors. Highlights include Costanza Cosati's exploration of ancient civilizations in Babylonia and Sarah Penner's intriguing mystery, The Amalfi Curse. We'll also have episodes from four History Through Fiction authors, C.W. Towarnicki, Jillian Forsberg, Alina Adams, and J. E. Weiner. From historical narratives to thrilling mysteries, each episode promises to captivate and inspire. Join us as we explore new perspectives and delve into the rich tapestry of history through fiction. Tune in weekly beginning February 10 for a season filled with compelling storytelling and thought-provoking discussions.
In the final episode of Season 7 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful sits down with Greg Houle, author of The Putnams of Salem. They discuss how Houle's novel offers a fresh perspective on the Salem Witch Trials, the enduring fascination with this period, and the challenges of sifting through historical interpretations. Houle shares insights into his podcast journey and offers tips for authors venturing into podcasting. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on history's lessons for today.
In Season 7, Episode 11 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews A.D. Rhine, the dynamic duo of Ashlee Cowles and Danielle Stinson. They discuss their epic duology, "Horses of Fire & Daughters of Bronze," which reimagines the Trojan War through the eyes of its women. With insights into blending myth and history, the authors reveal how their military upbringing and academic backgrounds in medieval history and law shaped their storytelling. Discover the emotional depth and character development that bring this classic tale to life, and learn about the challenges and joys of their collaborative writing journey.
In Season 7, Episode 10 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews Sian Ann Bessey about her novel "A Kingdom to Claim." Set in Wessex in AD 878, the story explores the lives of Aisley and Brecc amidst political turmoil. Bessey discusses her passion for historical storytelling, the challenges of weaving romance into her narratives, and the intricacies of capturing authentic historical details. She also shares insights into her writing journey and the lessons learned along the way.
In Season 7, Episode 9 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful sits down with renowned author Bernard Cornwell to explore his fascination with the Peninsular War and the art of weaving fictional characters into historical events. Cornwell shares insights into his writing journey, the evolution of his craft, and the thrill of seeing his characters come to life on screen. He discusses the lessons learned throughout his prolific career and offers advice to aspiring novelists. Tune in to discover what makes Cornwell's historical thrillers resonate with readers and how they reflect on today's world.
In Season 7, Episode 8 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews Stephen E. Yoch, author of "Becoming Benedict Arnold." They explore Yoch's decision to write about Arnold after his success with "Becoming George Washington." The conversation delves into Arnold's rise in the Continental Army, his overlooked promotion, and the impact of his injury at Saratoga. Yoch discusses Arnold's lavish lifestyle in Philadelphia, his court martial, and the factors leading to his treachery. They also touch on the novel's fictional elements, Yoch's legal background, and the shared audiobook narrator. Discover a nuanced view of Arnold's legacy.
In season 7, episode 7 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful talks with Emily Bleeker, author of When We Chased the Light. During the interview, Bleeker talks about Vivian Snow, the main character in her new novel and a character readers met in her previous novel When We Were Enemies. Bleeker also discusses her own family history, her success and growth as an author, and her background as an actor. Don’t miss it!
In this bonus episode of "History Through Fiction: The Podcast," host Colin Mustful chats with Alison Haselden, author of Wicked Dames. Alison dives into the creation of her audio drama, exploring the characters' arcs and the historical research behind the story. She shares insights into the journey from inspiration to publication, including the intricacies of audio drama production and shooting the trailer. Alison also discusses her background in acting, writing, and marketing, as well as the challenges of sharing her art. Tune in to discover her future ambitions and the unique appeal of Wicked Dames.
In season 7, episode 6 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful talks with Jillian Forsberg about her debut novel The Rhino Keeper. During the interview, Mustful chats with Forsberg her love of animals and how it inspired her to write a novel about an 18th century rhino named Clara. They also discuss Forsberg’s fascination with the 18th century, her long journey to publication, and her life outside of writing as the owner of a bridal store. Don’t miss it!
In Season 7, Episode 5 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews Laura C. Rader, author of "Hatfield 1677." They discuss King Philip's War and the events in Hatfield that year. Rader shares insights into her characters—Benjamin, Martha, and Ashpelon—and her personal connection to the history. She reveals surprising discoveries from her research and the resources she relied upon. Rader also talks about the challenges of crafting and publishing a novel, her career as a teacher, and her journey to becoming a writer. Don't miss it!
In the fourth episode of Season 7 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews Kimberly Brock, author of The Fabled Earth. They explore the enchanting setting of Cumberland Island and the historic Dungeness mansion, delving into the inspiration behind the story. Brock discusses the development of her characters, the dual timelines of 1932 and 1959, and the challenges of intertwining these narratives. She also highlights the importance of myths and folklore in storytelling, and how her background as an actor and special needs educator influences her writing. Tune in for an insightful conversation on evocative storytelling and Southern landscapes.
In the third episode of Season 7 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews Alix Rickloff, author of The Last Light Over Oslo. They explore the life of Florence Harriman and her role in Norway during WWII, including the German invasion and the rescue of the Norwegian Crown Princess. Rickloff delves into the character of Cleo Jaffray and her journey, balancing historical accuracy with personal drama. She discusses her research, Harriman's memoirs, and the influence of her own family history and living environment on her storytelling. Rickloff hopes readers are able to really think about when to sit on the sidelines and when to take action in difficult times.
In the second episode of Season 7 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful engages with author Aurélie Thiele, discussing her novel, The Paris Understudy, set in 1938 Paris and inspired by opera singer Germaine Lubin. They delve into the lives of characters Madeleine Moreau and Yvonne Chevallier, against the backdrop of pre-war France and the grand opera house central to the story. Thiele shares her journey from France to publication with Alcove Press, her experiences at Bennington Writing Seminars, and the interweaving of music, history, and fiction in her writing, offering listeners a glimpse into the emotional narrative and historical depth of her work.
See this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/tBxDb-VEM70
**About the Author**
Aurélie Thiele is French and American and lives in Dallas, TX. She holds a certificate in writing, with distinction, from the UCLA Writers’ Program and is a MFA candidate at the Bennington Writing Seminars in Bennington, VT. At the UCLA Writers’ Program, her writing was nominated twice for the James Kirkwood Award and once for the Allegra Johnson Award. Her novel THE PARIS UNDERSTUDY was selected by the Washington Post as one of ten noteworthy books for September 2024.
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In the Season 7 premiere of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Madeline Martin, author of "The Booklover's Library." They delve into the life of widow Emma Taylor, exploring the legal constraints she faced in wartime Nottingham and the heart-wrenching choices of the Blitz, including pet sacrifices and sending children to safety. Martin shares insights on Emma's bond with books and introduces us to a vibrant cast of characters. She reflects on personal connections, the emotional craft of storytelling, and the significance of the novel's cover, all while celebrating literature's power to unite us.
See this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6motK50yWNU
**About the Author**
Madeline Martin is a New York Times, USA Today, and International Bestselling author of historical fiction and historical romance with books that have been translated into over twenty different languages. She lives in sunny Florida with her two daughters (known collectively as the minions), two incredibly spoiled cats and a man so wonderful he's been dubbed Mr. Awesome. She is a die-hard history lover who will happily lose herself in research any day. When she's not writing, researching or 'moming', you can find her spending time with her family at Disney or sneaking a couple spoonfuls of Nutella while laughing over cat videos. She also loves research and travel, attributing her fascination with history to having spent most of her childhood as an Army brat in Germany. Check out her website for book club visits, reader guides for her historical fiction, upcoming events, book news and more: https://madelinemartin.com
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Get ready for Season 7 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, launching on Monday, September 16th! We're back with a fresh roster of authors who skillfully blend historical events with captivating fiction. Tune in weekly to meet these creative minds and dive into the stories where history comes alive.
Madeline Martin opens the season with her novel The Booklover’s Library, setting the stage for a series of engaging discussions. Following her, we'll feature Aurélie Thiele, Alix Rickloff, Kimberly Brock, and many more, each sharing their unique spin on the past's untold tales. Plus, don't miss out on our special episode with Jillian Forsberg, our very own author of The Rhino Keeper, as she sheds light on the art of storytelling.
Make sure you're subscribed on your go-to podcast platform so you won't miss any of these incredible conversations. Join us weekly and let's explore the mysteries behind the pen, unearth history's hidden treasures, and get inspired by the experts of historical narrative.
Let's bring history to life, one story at a time!
**September 16 - Madeline Martin**
Madeline Martin is a New York Times, USA Today, and International Bestselling author of historical fiction and historical romance with books that have been translated into over twenty different languages. She lives in sunny Florida with her two daughters (known collectively as the minions), two incredibly spoiled cats and a man so wonderful he's been dubbed Mr. Awesome. She is a die-hard history lover who will happily lose herself in research any day. When she's not writing, researching or 'moming', you can find her spending time with her family at Disney or sneaking a couple spoonfuls of Nutella while laughing over cat videos. She also loves research and travel, attributing her fascination with history to having spent most of her childhood as an Army brat in Germany. Check out her website for book club visits, reader guides for her historical fiction, upcoming events, book news and more: https://madelinemartin.com
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**September 23 - Aurélie Thiele**
Aurélie Thiele is French American and lives in Dallas, TX. She has studied writing at the UCLA Extension School and Bennington Writing Seminars.
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**September 30 - Alix Rickloff**
Award-winning historical fiction author Alix Rickloff's family tree includes a knight who fought during the Wars of the Roses and a soldier who sided with Charles I during the English Civil War. With inspiration like that, what else could she do but write her own stories? She lives in Maryland in a house that's seen its own share of history so when she's not writing, she can usually be found trying to keep it from falling down.
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**October 7 - Kimberly Brock**
Kimberly Brock is the award-winning author of The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare and The River Witch. She is the founder of Tinderbox Writers Workshop and has served as a guest lecturer for many regional and national writing workshops including at the Pat Conroy Literary Center. She lives near Atlanta with her husband and three children. Visit her online at kimberlybrockbooks.com; Instagram: @kimberlydbrock; Facebook: @kimberlybrockauthor; X: @kimberlydbrock
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**October 14 - Laura C. Rader**
Laura C. Rader earned a BA in psychology from San Diego State University, where she minored in history and took creative writing and literature classes. She drew on those passions in her thirty-year career as a history and English teacher of elementary and middle school students. Now, a full-time historical fiction writer, Laura also enjoys studying genealogy, attending neighborhood book club meetings, taking forest walks with her Rough Collie, and visiting her adult daughter in Brooklyn. Originally from California, Laura lives twenty miles north of Raleigh, North Carolina.
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**October 21 - Jillian Forsberg**
Jillian Forsberg is a historian and author with a master's degree in public history from Wichita State University. Her research on little-known historical events led her to discover the true story behind her first novel, The Rhino Keeper. In addition to being the former editor for Wichita State's The Fairmont Folio, Jillian is an essayist whose articles have been published in academic journals. With a passion for 18th-century history, Jillian can also be found gardening, exploring antique malls, or reading every label at a museum. Vintage dresses are Jillian's clothing of choice, except when she's at the zoo. She lives in Wichita, Kansas, with her husband, child, and pets.
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**October 28 - Emily Bleeker**
Emily Bleeker is the bestselling author of six novels. Combined, her books have reached more than two million readers. She is a two-time Whitney Award finalist as well as an Amazon Charts and Wall Street Journal bestseller. Emily lives in the northern suburbs of Chicago with her husband, their kids, and her kitten/muse--Hazel. Between writing and being a mom, she performs with a local improv troupe, sings karaoke like no one is watching, and embraces her newfound addiction to running. Connect with her or request a Zoom visit with your book club at www.emilybleeker.com.
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**November 4 - Stephen Yoch**
Stephen Yoch is an award-winning historical fiction author who was named a 2016 Literati by the St. Paul Landmark Center and a Finalist for the 2016 Next Generation Indie Book Awards. Yoch graduated with honors from Boston College and the University of Minnesota Law School. He has enjoyed over three decades of practicing law in the Twin Cities. He and his two adult children enjoy supporting the Minnesota Aurora, a women's soccer team founded by his wife and other community leaders.
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**November 11 - Bernard Cornwell**
Bernard Cornwell is the author of over fifty novels, including the acclaimed New York Times bestselling Saxon Tales, which serve as the basis for the hit Netflix series The Last Kingdom. He lives with his wife on Cape Cod and in Charleston, South Carolina.
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**November 18 - Sian Ann Bessey**
Sian Ann Bessey was born in Cambridge, England, and grew up on the island of Anglesey off the coast of North Wales. She left her homeland to attend university in the United States, where she earned a bachelor's degree in communications, with a minor in English. She is a USA Today best-selling author. Sian and her husband, Kent, are the parents of five children and the grandparents of four girls and two boys. They live in Idaho, and although Sian doesn't have the opportunity to speak Welsh very often anymore, Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch still rolls off her tongue.
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**November 25 - A.D. Rhine**
A. D. Rhineis the pseudonym and debut venture of Ashlee Cowles and Danielle Stinson. The authors, previously published in the YA space (by S&S and Macmillan, respectively), are united by their military "brat" upbringing, childhood friendship spanning two decades, and love of classical literature. Ashlee holds graduate degrees in Ethics of War and Peace from Duke University and history from the University of St. Andrews. Danielle holds a master's degree in Law and Diplomacy from Tufts. Horses of Fire and Daughters of Bronze are the books they have always dreamt of writing together.
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**December 2 - Greg Houle**
Greg Houle is a writer and storyteller living in Los Angeles. His work has appeared in numerous publications and he is the creator and host of the Salem Witch Trials Podcast. The Putnams of Salem is his first novel.
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**December 9 - Winner of the History Through Fiction Short Story Contest**
The final episode of season 7 will feature the winner of the History Through Fiction Short Story Contest!
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In this special bonus episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, we dive into the world of literature, business, and entertainment with the multi-talented Ciera Horton McElroy. As the CEO of Clover & Bee Communications and author of "Atomic Family," Ciera shares the intriguing literary reference that inspired her company's name and her journey from freelance writer to successful business owner.
Ciera opens up about her ideal clients—authors looking for the right tools to thrive in the publishing world—and how she offers affordable services, like her Marketing Master Ebook, to help those on a budget. We also get a behind-the-scenes look at her work on the film "Jesus Revolution" and discuss the unique feeling of finally getting your novel published.
But it's not all work and no play; Ciera reveals her love for reality TV, including shows like The Bachelor and Love is Blind. With her Masters-level training in fiction writing and extensive experience in faith-based messaging, Ciera brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to our conversation.
Don't miss this engaging discussion with a shamelessly multi-passionate creative who's making waves in both the literary and marketing worlds. Tune in to hear Ciera's story and maybe even find some inspiration for your own creative endeavors!
See this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1JNXRp6-ECk
**About the Author**
Ciera Horton McElroy is a shamelessly multi-passionate creative and marketing strategist. She brings her Masters-level training in fiction writing to her years of expertise in faith-based messaging. Ciera led communications for the 2023 smash hit JESUS REVOLUTION, a Kingdom Story Company and Lionsgate film starring Jonathan Roumie (The Chosen.)
Her debut novel ATOMIC FAMILY is out now from Blair. For more information on her creative work, please visit www.cieramcelroy.com
The final episode of season 6 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Jill George, author of the novel A Hopeless Dawn. During the interview, host Colin Mustful chats with George about the painting that inspired her novel, what life was like for the people of Cornwall—the 19th century fishing village featured in her novel—, and the character profiles she creates before starting any novel. Don’t miss it!
See this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/HgLMn91qkDQ
**About the Author**
Jill George, Ph.D., is an industrial psychologist who has worked in the organizational and leadership consulting space for thirty years. As part of this work, she has travelled the world extensively and met with thousands of leaders. She has published several books and many articles on leadership in engaging work cultures. She employs her competency and assessment skills to build deep and intriguing profiles for her characters. Jill has been a lifelong history enthusiast and lover of all things Victorian. She has been thrilled to partner with true historian, John Dirring, Ph.D., of Devon, UK, on this project. Her next novel is called Illuminating Darwin: Arabella Buckley’s Story about the only woman who was a close friend to and discussant with Charles Darwin. Jill lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with her husband and three teenage children, whom she adores.
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Season 6, Episode 12 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features our very own Ezra Harker Shaw, author of the novel The Aziola’s Cry: A Novel of the Shelleys. During the interview, host Colin Mustful chats with Harker Shaw about the values and ideals extolled by Mary and Percy Shelley during their lifetimes, the influence of Lord Byron on the lives and writings of the Shelleys, and the story behind the title of The Aziola’s Cry. Don’t miss it!
See this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/W0atRjfxOrQ
**About the Author**
Born in Scotland and now living in London, Dr. Ezra Harker Shaw is a non-binary writer who loves all things Gothic. While earning their PhD, Harker Shaw explored the collaborative writing of Percy Byssche Shelley and Mary Shelley, a project that led them to write The Aziola’s Cry. A celebrated performance poet, Harker Shaw regularly hosts poetry nights in London and was nominated for the Outspoken Prize for Poetry. Harker Shaw has also showcased their talent as a playwright with works such as Tolstoy Tried to Kill My Partner and The Grouchy Octopus Story, both of which were performed in London by the esteemed Pajoda Theatre Co. Possessing a profound passion for teaching, Harker Shaw often conducts university lectures and workshops with aspiring young writers. To further inspire and educate others, Harker Shaw hosts the Meliorist Writes podcast, where they provide valuable writing tips and engage in insightful interviews with fellow creatives.
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Season 6, Episode 11 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Yangsze Choo, author of the novel The Fox Wife. During the interview, host Colin Mustful chats with Choo about the mythology of the fox in east Asian culture, the tradition of detective novels in Chinese literature, and the years Choo spent writing her first manuscript that was never published. Choo also talks about the joy and challenges of narrating her own audiobook. Don’t miss it!
See this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZjCGEumFcmU
**About the Author**
Yangsze Choo is a NYTimes bestselling novelist and a fourth generation Malaysian of Chinese descent. After graduating from Harvard, she worked in various corporate jobs and had a briefcase, while writing fiction on a coffee table at home in her spare time. Her debut novel, The Ghost Bride, was a New York Times bestseller and now a Netflix Original series. Her second novel, The Night Tiger, was a Reese Witherspoon Bookclub pick and a Big Jubilee Read selection for Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. She lives in California with her family and loves to eat and read (often at the same time).
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Season 6, Episode 10 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Marthese Fenech, bestselling author of historical novels set in 16th-century Malta and Turkey. During the interview, host Colin Mustful chats with Fenech about the rich history of the island country of Malta, her dedication to her craft, and the inspiration that led her to write her Knights of Malta series. Don’t miss it!
See this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_dMl55U5c14
**About the Author**
Marthese Fenech is the bestselling author of historical novels set in 16th-century Malta and Turkey, and has written a TV pilot based on her novels. Her research adventures have taken her worldwide, inspiring her writing. Born in Toronto to Maltese parents, she's lived in Malta and has a Master’s in Education, and is a former high school English teacher. Fluent in Maltese and French, she also enjoys archery, kickboxing, and various extreme sports. Mar lives near Toronto with her husband and their musically talented Siberian husky.
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Season 6, Episode 9 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features historical fiction editor and founder of Historical Editorial, Jenny Quinlan. During the interview, host Colin Mustful chats with Quinlan about when she discovered her love for historical fiction, how and why she started Historical Editorial, what advice she has for authors when working with an editor, and the challenges and rewards of chairing the Historical Novel Society North American Conference. Don’t miss it!
See this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/aR8LB5vT5c4
**About the Editor**
Jenny Quinlan, known as Jenny Q, is a dedicated editor and book coach with a focus on historical fiction and romance. Since founding Historical Editorial in 2011, she's edited nearly 400 manuscripts. With a BA in history and a copyediting certification, Jenny is deeply involved in the historical fiction community, contributing to the Historical Novel Society and chairing conferences. She enjoys travel, photography, and reading.
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Season 6, Episode 8 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Jennifer Ryan, author of the novel The Underground Library. During the interview, host Colin Mustful chats with Ryan about how she creates authentic characters, how the Bethnal Green Library became an underground library during The London Blitz, and how Ryan’s grandmother inspired this and other stories. Don’t miss it!
See this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Oq8ydlWuflM
**About the Author**
Jennifer Ryan is the author of National Bestseller The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir, The Spies of Shilling Lane, The Kitchen Front, The Wedding Dress Sewing Circle, and The Underground Library. Her writing has been featured in Literary Hub, Moms Don’t Have Time to Write, The Daily Mail, The Irish Times, The Express, BBC Online, YOU Magazine, The Simple Things Magazine, and Good Reading Magazine. Previously a book editor with The Economist, DK, and the BBC, she moved from London to Washington, DC after marrying, and she now lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and two children. Her novels are inspired by her grandmother's tales of the war in Britain.
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Season 6, Episode 7 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast has Robin Oliveira, the author of A Wild and Heavenly Place. Host Colin Mustful talks with Oliveira about immigration to Seattle in the late 1800s, her dedication to the facts and extremely thorough research, and how she combined her ancestry with her love of the Pacific Northwest to write this novel. Don't miss!
See this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7H2r1VQnZKI
**About the Author**
Robin Oliveira grew up just outside Albany, New York in the town of Loudonville. She holds a B.A. in Russian from the University of Montana, and studied at the Pushkin Language Institute in Moscow, Russia. She worked for many years as a Registered Nurse, specializing in Critical Care and Bone Marrow Transplant. In 2006 she received an M.F.A. in Writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts. She lives outside of Seattle, Washington, with her husband, Andrew Oliveira. She has two children, Noelle Oliveira and Miles Oliveira. All three are the loves of her life.
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Season 6, Episode 6 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features ReShonda Tate, author of The Queen of Sugar Hill. Host Colin Mustful chats with Tate about the challenges, personally and professionally, Hattie McDaniel faced after becoming the first black woman to win an Oscar, the relevance of Hattie’s story today, and the reasons behind Tate’s decision to write historical fiction. Be sure to tune in!
**About the Author**
ReShonda Tate is a national bestselling author with over 53 books to her name, including adult and teen fiction, as well as nonfiction. Her second novel, Let the Church Say Amen, was turned into a film by Regina King. ReShonda also appeared in this film and another adaptation of her work, The Secret She Kept. An award-winning poet and motivational speaker, she's won an NAACP Image Award and has been recognized for her writing talents with numerous accolades. Known as a top African-American writer, her works are bestsellers and widely acclaimed.
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This episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast is sponsored by Brock Meier, author of the novel The Stone Cutter. A doomed quest of love and ambition, awash in the glories of the Nabataean Kingdom.
Season 6, Episode 5 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast has Candace Simar, the author of Sister Lumberjack. During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Simar about how her own family history inspires her stories, what life was like for 19th century lumberjacks, and the history behind the Benedictine Health System. Don't miss this great chat!
See this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4VqZmWdcE70
**About the Author**
Candace Simar is a celebrated author who blends her Scandinavian roots with a passion for history in her novels about Minnesota and North Dakota's early days. She has won the Spur Award and been a finalist for her Abercrombie Trail series, and her work extends to award-winning short stories and poetry. Candace's books include historical novels like Escape to Fort Abercrombie and collections such as Dear Homefolks. Her writing has earned accolades from various contests, including the Bob Dylan Creative Writing Contest. She loves discussing her work with book clubs and groups around the country.
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Season 6, Episode 4 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Elizabeth R. Andersen, author of The Alewives. Host Colin Mustful chats with Andersen about beer vs. ale, how her tech and journalism experience helped her write historical novels, and her choice to go for independent publishing right away. They also discuss the stunning Pacific Northwest, where Elizabeth lives and enjoys hiking. Be sure to tune in!
See this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lf4qqUajJ_c
**About the Author**
Elizabeth R. Andersen is a passionate historical fiction author residing in the picturesque Pacific Northwest of the United States. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges, Elizabeth draws inspiration from her environment, whether she's hiking through the great outdoors or cozying up with a book during the region's frequent rains. With a journalism degree under her belt, she has a keen eye for detail and a deep-seated love for research, which she pours into her writing. Elizabeth shares intriguing medieval facts on Instagram, creates engaging videos on TikTok, and maintains a professional presence on Facebook. To keep up with her latest works, followers can track her on Amazon, BookBub, or Goodreads.
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Season 6, Episode 2 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast has Brock Meier, the author of The Stone Cutter. Host Colin Mustful talks with Meier about the history of the Nabataean Kingdom, the biblical origins of his main character Nahor, and the unique rock-cut architecture of Petra. Don't miss this great chat!
See this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9ZD_AFStDZ8
**About the Author**
Brock Meier, an award-winning author with a background in science, now captivates readers with his historical fiction. His debut novel, "The Stone Cutter," received the prestigious 2023 Gold Award for its portrayal of the ancient world. In addition to writing, Meier indulges in creating unique wines and desserts while immersing himself in jazz, opera, and classical music. Residing in Texas Hill Country, he uses storytelling as a means to delve into life's profound mysteries.
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Season 6, Episode 2 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast has Angie Elita Newell, the author of All I See is Violence. Host Colin Mustful talks with Newell about the history of the American Indian Wars and the Battle of the Little Big Horn, how to make historical events into a compelling fictional narrative, and what it means to infuse history with emotion so we don't repeat the mistakes of the past. Don't miss this great chat!
See this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a6vodw8PzIs
**About the Author**
Angie Elita Newellbelongs to the Liidlii Kue First Nation from the Dehcho, the place where two rivers meet. A trained historian, she blends a tradition of oral stories with academic history and holds university degrees in English literature, creative writing, and First Nations history with an emphasis on colonialism.
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Season 6, Episode 1 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast has Eric Z. Weintraub, the author of South of Sepharad. Host Colin Mustful talks with Weintraub about developing his characters Vidal and Bonadonna, the Jewish diaspora after the Alhambra Decree, and how his MFA program helped him craft his first novel. Don't miss this great chat!
Watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XdFBKxQDtTI
**About the Author**
Eric Z. Weintraub earned an MFA in Creative Writing from Mount St. Mary’s University where he wrote his debut novel South of Sepharad. Growing up in Los Angeles, CA, he came from a family of filmmakers, writers, and educators stirring in him a passion for storytelling from a young age. His short fiction has appeared in Tabula Rasa Review, Halfway Down the Stairs, The Rush, and elsewhere. His novella Dreams of an American Exile won the 2015 Plaza Literary Prize and was published by Black Hill Press. His short story collection The 28th Parallel was a finalist for the 2021 Flannery O’Connor Award in Short Fiction. When not writing fiction, Eric profiles true stories of complex medical cases where he works at the Keck School of Medicine of USC.
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History Through Fiction: The Podcast is about to launch its thrilling 6th season! Starting on Monday, February 19th, we're kicking things off with a lineup of authors who have mastered the art of weaving historical facts with riveting fiction. Every week, you'll get to meet these talented writers and hear about their experiences turning the rich tapestry of history into spellbinding stories.
Eric Weintraub will be our first guest, discussing his novel South of Sepharad. Angie Elita Newell follows with her powerful work, All I See is Violence, a story that promises to grip your heart with its intensity and depth. But that's just the beginning! We've got an entire season filled with authors like Yangsze Choo, Elizabeth R. Anderson, and Candace Simar, each bringing their unique perspective on history's untold stories. We even have historical fiction editor Jenny Quinlan who’ll be talking about how she helps authors craft their stories.
Don't miss out on conversations these fantastic conversations. Hit subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and join us every week for a new episode. Together, let's uncover the secrets behind the pen, discover history's hidden gems, and get inspired by the masters of historical storytelling.
Join us, as we bring history to life, one story at a time!
**February 19 - Eric Z. Weintraub**
Eric Z. Weintraub earned an MFA in Creative Writing from Mount St. Mary’s University where he wrote his debut novel South of Sepharad. Growing up in Los Angeles, CA, he came from a family of filmmakers, writers, and educators stirring in him a passion for storytelling from a young age. His short fiction has appeared in Tabula Rasa Review, Halfway Down the Stairs, The Rush, and elsewhere. His novella Dreams of an American Exile won the 2015 Plaza Literary Prize and was published by Black Hill Press. His short story collection The 28th Parallel was a finalist for the 2021 Flannery O’Connor Award in Short Fiction. When not writing fiction, Eric profiles true stories of complex medical cases where he works at the Keck School of Medicine of USC.
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**February 26 - Angie Elita Newell**
Angie Elita Newellbelongs to the Liidlii Kue First Nation from the Dehcho, the place where two rivers meet. A trained historian, she blends a tradition of oral stories with academic history and holds university degrees in English literature, creative writing, and First Nations history with an emphasis on colonialism.
Get the Novel
**March 4 - Brock Meier**
Brock Meier, an award-winning author with a background in science, now captivates readers with his historical fiction. His debut novel, "The Stone Cutter," received the prestigious 2023 Gold Award for its portrayal of the ancient world. In addition to writing, Meier indulges in creating unique wines and desserts while immersing himself in jazz, opera, and classical music. Residing in Texas Hill Country, he uses storytelling as a means to delve into life's profound mysteries.
Get the Novel
**March 11 - Elizabeth R. Anderson**
Elizabeth R. Andersen is a passionate historical fiction author residing in the picturesque Pacific Northwest of the United States. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges, Elizabeth draws inspiration from her environment, whether she's hiking through the great outdoors or cozying up with a book during the region's frequent rains. With a journalism degree under her belt, she has a keen eye for detail and a deep-seated love for research, which she pours into her writing. Elizabeth shares intriguing medieval facts on Instagram, creates engaging videos on TikTok, and maintains a professional presence on Facebook. To keep up with her latest works, followers can track her on Amazon, BookBub, or Goodreads.
Get the Novel
**March 18 - Candace Simar**
Candace Simar is a celebrated author who blends her Scandinavian roots with a passion for history in her novels about Minnesota and North Dakota's early days. She has won the Spur Award and been a finalist for her Abercrombie Trail series, and her work extends to award-winning short stories and poetry. Candace's books include historical novels like Escape to Fort Abercrombie and collections such as Dear Homefolks. Her writing has earned accolades from various contests, including the Bob Dylan Creative Writing Contest. She loves discussing her work with book clubs and groups around the country.
Get the Novel
**March 25 - ReShonda Tate**
ReShonda Tate is a national bestselling author with over 53 books to her name, including adult and teen fiction, as well as nonfiction. Her second novel, Let the Church Say Amen, was turned into a film by Regina King. ReShonda also appeared in this film and another adaptation of her work, The Secret She Kept. An award-winning poet and motivational speaker, she's won an NAACP Image Award and has been recognized for her writing talents with numerous accolades. Known as a top African-American writer, her works are bestsellers and widely acclaimed.
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**April 1 - Robin Oliveira**
Robin Oliveira grew up just outside Albany, New York in the town of Loudonville. She holds a B.A. in Russian from the University of Montana, and studied at the Pushkin Language Institute in Moscow, Russia. She worked for many years as a Registered Nurse, specializing in Critical Care and Bone Marrow Transplant. In 2006 she received an M.F.A. in Writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts. She lives outside of Seattle, Washington, with her husband, Andrew Oliveira. She has two children, Noelle Oliveira and Miles Oliveira. All three are the loves of her life.
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**April 8 - Jennifer Ryan**
Jennifer Ryan is the author of National Bestseller The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir, The Spies of Shilling Lane, The Kitchen Front, The Wedding Dress Sewing Circle, and The Underground Library. Her writing has been featured in Literary Hub, Moms Don’t Have Time to Write, The Daily Mail, The Irish Times, The Express, BBC Online, YOU Magazine, The Simple Things Magazine, and Good Reading Magazine. Previously a book editor with The Economist, DK, and the BBC, she moved from London to Washington, DC after marrying, and she now lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and two children. Her novels are inspired by her grandmother's tales of the war in Britain.
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**April 15 - Jenny Quinlan**
Jenny Quinlan, known as Jenny Q, is a dedicated editor and book coach with a focus on historical fiction and romance. Since founding Historical Editorial in 2011, she's edited nearly 400 manuscripts. With a BA in history and a copyediting certification, Jenny is deeply involved in the historical fiction community, contributing to the Historical Novel Society and chairing conferences. She enjoys travel, photography, and reading.
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**April 22 - Marthese Fenech**
Marthese Fenech is the bestselling author of historical novels set in 16th-century Malta and Turkey, and has written a TV pilot based on her novels. Her research adventures have taken her worldwide, inspiring her writing. Born in Toronto to Maltese parents, she's lived in Malta and has a Master’s in Education, and is a former high school English teacher. Fluent in Maltese and French, she also enjoys archery, kickboxing, and various extreme sports. Mar lives near Toronto with her husband and their musically talented Siberian husky.
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**April 29 - Yangsze Choo**
Yangsze Choo is a NYTimes bestselling novelist and a fourth generation Malaysian of Chinese descent. After graduating from Harvard, she worked in various corporate jobs and had a briefcase, while writing fiction on a coffee table at home in her spare time. Her debut novel, The Ghost Bride, was a New York Times bestseller and now a Netflix Original series. Her second novel, The Night Tiger, was a Reese Witherspoon Bookclub pick and a Big Jubilee Read selection for Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. She lives in California with her family and loves to eat and read (often at the same time).
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**May 6 - Ezra Harker Shaw**
Born in Scotland and now living in London, Dr. Ezra Harker Shaw is a non-binary writer who loves all things Gothic. While earning their PhD, Harker Shaw explored the collaborative writing of Percy Byssche Shelley and Mary Shelley, a project that led them to write The Aziola’s Cry. A celebrated performance poet, Harker Shaw regularly hosts poetry nights in London and was nominated for the Outspoken Prize for Poetry. Harker Shaw has also showcased their talent as a playwright with works such as Tolstoy Tried to Kill My Partner and The Grouchy Octopus Story, both of which were performed in London by the esteemed Pajoda Theatre Co. Possessing a profound passion for teaching, Harker Shaw often conducts university lectures and workshops with aspiring young writers. To further inspire and educate others, Harker Shaw hosts the Meliorist Writes podcast, where they provide valuable writing tips and engage in insightful interviews with fellow creatives.
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**May 13 - Jill George**
Jill George, Ph.D., is an industrial psychologist who has worked in the organizational and leadership consulting space for thirty years. As part of this work, she has travelled the world extensively and met with thousands of leaders. She has published several books and many articles on leadership in engaging work cultures. She employs her competency and assessment skills to build deep and intriguing profiles for her characters. Jill has been a lifelong history enthusiast and lover of all things Victorian. She has been thrilled to partner with true historian, John Dirring, Ph.D., of Devon, UK, on this project. Her next novel is called Illuminating Darwin: Arabella Buckley’s Story about the only woman who was a close friend to and discussant with Charles Darwin. Jill lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with her husband and three teenage children, whom she adores.
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In our final episode of the season, Season 5, Episode 14 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features J.L. Oakley, author of the novels The Quisling Factor and The Jøssing Affair. During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Oakley about the Norwegian resistance movement during WWII, the important reason her main character can speak in sign language, and how her own family history helped make her into a storyteller. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Award-winning author J.L. Oakley writes historical fiction that spans the mid-19th century to WWII with characters standing up for something in their own time and place. Her writing has been recognized with a 2006 Surrey International Writer's Non-fiction award, a 2013 Bellingham Mayor’s Arts Award, the 2013 Chanticleer Grand Prize, the 2014 First Place Chaucer Award, the 2015 WILLA Silver Award for Timber Rose, and the 2016 Goethe Grand Prize for The Jøssing Affair. When not writing, she demonstrates 19th century folkways in the schools and at San Juan Island National Park. In her novels The Jossing Affair and The Quisling Factor, British-trained Norwegian intelligence agent Tore Haugland is on a mission to free Norway from German occupation during WWII.
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Season 5, Episode 13 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Marlie Parker Wasserman, author of the novel Path of Peril. During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Wasserman about why President Theodore Roosevelt was the first U.S. president to travel abroad while in office, the career of White House Secretary Maurice C. Latta who served for nine different presidents, and how she went from a university press publisher to writing historical crime fiction. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Marlie Parker Wasserman writes historical crime fiction. Her debut novel, THE MURDERESS MUST DIE, tells the story of Martha Place, the first woman to die in the electric chair. Her second novel, PATH OF PERIL, is a twisty tale of multiple assassins scheming to murder Teddy Roosevelt in 1906 at the Panama Canal. Her forthcoming novel, INFERNO ON FIFTH, is based on the true story of a deadly hotel fire in Manhattan in 1899. When she is not writing, Marlie sketches and travels. Topping her bucket list is a visit to each of the United States’ sixty-two national parks. She has visited forty-two to date. Her newest novel Path of Peril, imagines what the newspapers feared to report and what historians never discovered about Roosevelt's risky trip to Panama in 1906.
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Season 5, Episode 12 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features D.G. Schulman, author of the novel Anna’s Promise. During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Schulman about the circumstances facing Poland during WWI, her extremely positive experience working with Wild Rose Press, and what it means to hold tight to one’s faith, religious or otherwise. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
D.G. Schulman is a publishing executive who married the boy next door and lives in the Midwest where she and her husband raised their two daughters. She is a night owl who loves to write fiction into the wee hours of the morning. When she's not in front of a keyboard, she enjoys making chocolate, growing herbs, cooking, reading, and spending time with her married children and growing brood of grandkids. Her debut novel Anna’s Promise, slips between war-torn Poland and modern American life, telling one family's story woven together across three generations.
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Season 5, Episode 11 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Cy Stein, author of the novel A Time for Lies. During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Stein about the rise of McCarthyism in the 1950s and the danger it represented, why he chose to write alternate history instead of historical fiction or nonfiction, and the direct links he sees between McCarthyism of the past and what’s happening today. Don’t miss it!
In this very special bonus episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Ellen O’Brien, author of The Hills That Hold Meandgrand prize winner of History Through Fiction’s first annual short story contest. During the interview, Mustful talks with O’Brien about Melangell, the Catholic Saint upon which her story is based, the value of studying landscapes to bring historical narratives to life, and her research into servant narratives buried within the English country house tradition. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Ellen (she/her) is a secondary teacher from Western Australia, where she lives with her husband and their perpetually furious rabbit, George. Having completed her doctorate on the servant narratives buried within the English country house tradition, Ellen enjoys any story that brings a hidden voice into the light. She is the author of The Hills That Hold Me, grand prize winner of History Through Fiction’s first annual short story contest.
Season 5, Episode 10 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features USA Today bestselling author Jennifer Cody Epstein, the author of The Madwomen of Paris. During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Epstein about the history of the Salpêtrière asylum, the curious, startling nature of Victorian death photography, and the realities and consequences of gender inequity in health care. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Jennifer Cody Epstein is the USA Today bestselling author of the novel Wunderland. Some of her other works include The Gods of Heavenly Punishment, winner of the 2014 Asian Pacific Association of Librarians Honor award for outstanding fiction, as well as the international bestseller The Painter from Shanghai. Epstein has written for The Wall Street Journal, The Asian Wall Street Journal, The Nation (Thailand), Self and Mademoiselle magazines, and the NBC and HBO networks, working in Kyoto, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Bangkok as well as Washington D.C. and New York. Epstein has an MFA from Columbia, a Masters of International Relations from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, and a BA in Asian Studies/English from Amherst College. She lives in Brooklyn, NY with her husband, filmmaker Michael Epstein, her two amazing daughters and an exceptionally needy Springer Spaniel. Her newest novel, The Madwomen of Paris, two women fall under the influence of a powerful doctor in Paris's notorious women's asylum in this gripping historical novel inspired by true events.
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Season 5, Episode 9 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features actor, playwright, and author Gin Hammond, author of the novel Returning the Bones. During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Hammond about the amazing accomplishments of her aunt, Dr. Caroline Beatrice Hammond, the travel research she did to create more authentic scenes and settings, and her method of teaching accent and dialects in a way that deepens our humanity and makes a better world. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Gin Hammond is a graduate of Harvard University and Moscow Art Theatre. She has performed nationally and internationally at theatres such as the Guthrie, the Long Wharf Theatre, and the Studio Theatre in Washington, DC, where she won a Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Lead Actress. A certified associate teacher of Fitzmaurice Voicework™, Hammond teaches voice, voiceover, public speaking, and dialect coaching. Hammond’s debut novel, Returning the Bones, explores the question: How do you choose between your country, your people, and yourself? ... and brings you on a journey of many miles, perspectives, and epiphanies.
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Season 5, Episode 8 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Lola Jaye, author of the novel The Attic Child. During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Jaye about the practice of capturing African children and bringing them to Great Britain to act as “companions”, something that happened to her main character, how she went from hating to loving history, and using her writing to contribute to making a better world. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Lola Jaye was born and raised in London, England, where she still makes her home; she has also lived briefly in Nigeria. By the Time You Read This--Lola's first U.S. novel--was published by HarperCollins in 2009. Her inspirational essay "Reaching for the Stars: How You Can Make Your Dreams Come True," in which she charted her journey from foster child to author, was released in 2009 as part of the U.K.'s wildly popular Quick Reads program. Her novel, The Attic Child, has been called a hauntingly powerful and emotionally charged novel about family secrets, love and loss, identity and belonging.
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Season 5, Episode 7 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features New York Times bestselling author Amy Harmon, author of the novel A Girl Called Samson. During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Harmon about Deborah Sampson, the woman upon which her novel is based, the process of relying on peripheral research to tell Deborah’s story, and Harmon talks about her own journey going from a school teacher to a bestselling novelist. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Amy Harmon is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and New York Times bestselling author. Her books have been translated into thirty languages around the world. Amy has written nineteen novels in multiple genres, including the bestsellers, WHAT THE WIND KNOWS and WHERE THE LOST WANDER. Her fantasy novel, THE BIRD AND THE SWORD was a Goodreads Best Book finalist. FROM SAND AND ASH was named the 2016 Whitney Award winner for Book of the Year. Her latest novel, A Girl Called Samson, is the saga of a young woman who dares to chart her own destiny in life and love during the American Revolutionary War.
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This special Bonus Episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features K.M. Butler, author of the novel House Aretoli. During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Butler about how to create historically authentic fiction characters, the influential role of women in Medieval Venetian society, and the craft of balancing history and fiction. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
KM Butler is an author of historical novels that highlight the similarities between modern readers and their ancestors. His debut Viking-Age novel, The Raven and the Dove, portrays the struggles of identity, culture, and religion when Norse settlers and Christians in northern France lived together. His next book, The Welsh Dragon, tells the story of Henry Tudor's 14-year exile that transformed him into the man who defeated Richard III at Bosworth. His newest release, House Aretoli, takes readers on a historical adventure in medieval Venice. KM Butler lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and two daughters, who always want more blood and talking animals in his stories.
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Season 5, Episode 6 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features S. Lee Fisher, author of the novel Becoming Olive W.During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Fisher about the challenges each female main character in her Women of Campbell County Saga faces, her brilliant organization method to keep all the details in her writing straight, and her own determination to be independent in a male dominated world. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
S. Lee Fisher is the pen name of clinical pharmacist Dr. Sherri Lee Fisher Progar. Retired from pharmacy practice in 2015, Fisher decided to use her 'right brain' to pursue more creative endeavors. Now a full-time novelist, Fisher lives on the gulf coast of Florida with her husband of 37 years, Ralph. Her novel series, The Women of Campbell County Saga, features amazingly brave female main characters of Campbell County who survive two world wars, an economic depression, and the Korean war, molding strong relationships while struggling with minimal resources.
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This episode is sponsored by Barbara Sontheimer, author of the novel Victor’s Blessings: A meticulously researched tale of a half-Osage Union soldier, torn between honor, duty and perhaps the most difficult human emotion of all... forgiveness.
Season 5, Episode 5 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Emily Hourican, author of Mummy Darlingsand the Glorious Guiness Girls novels series. During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Hourican about relying on fictional characters to provide more history to the reader, using her background as a journalist to provide an objective, impartial view of the past, and her experience turning out a book a year writing commercial fiction. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Emily Hourican is a journalist and author. She has written features for the Sunday Independent for fifteen years, as well as Image magazine, Condé Nast Traveler and Woman and Home. She was also editor of The Dubliner Magazine. Emily's first book, a memoir titled How To (Really) Be A Mother was published in 2013. She is also the author of the novels The Privileged, White Villa, The Outsider and The Blamed, as well as two bestselling novels about the Guinness sisters: The Glorious Guinness Girls and The Guinness Girls: A Hint of Scandal. She lives in Dublin with her family. The latest installment of the Glorious Guiness Girls series, Mummy Darlings, follows the three enigmatic Guinness sisters as they take on married life and motherhood at the beginning of the 1930s.
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Season 5, Episode 4 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features an interview with Colin Mustful, author of the novel Reclaiming Mni Sota, with special guest host Stephanie Landsem. During the interview, Landsem talks with Mustful about what inspired his years of research on the U.S. - Dakota War, the work he did in order to convey Dakota and Ojibwe history and culture, and the literary diversity initiative he’s started in order to raise $10,000 for one Indigenous writer from Minnesota. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Colin Mustful is an independent historian, author, and publisher. His work, which includes five historical novels, focuses on the tumultuous and complicated periods of settler-colonialism and Native displacement in American history. He has a Master of Arts degree in history and a Master of Fine Arts degree in creative writing. He is the founder and editor of History Through Fiction, an independent press that publishes compelling historical novels that are based on real events and people. As a traditional publisher, he works with authors who want to share important historical stories with the world. He believes that learning history is vital to understanding our world today and finding just, long-lasting solutions for the future. In his new novel, Reclaiming Mni Sota, Mustful has created an alternate history that asks the question, “What if Minnesota were Mni Sota Makoce, a Native held and governed land?”
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Season 5, Episode 3 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Tracey D. Buchanan, author of the novel Toward the Corner of Mercy and Peace. During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Buchanan her love for her hometown of Paducah, Kentucky, the ghost tours that inspired her novel, and the challenges of going from journalist to a fiction writer. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Tracey D. Buchanan is an award-winning journalist and has worked as a magazine editor and freelance writer for over thirty years. She’s now happily planted in the world of fiction with her debut novel, Toward the Corner of Mercy and Peace. She and her husband Kent live in the UNESCO Creative City of Paducah, Ky. They have two married sons, seven shockingly perfect grandchildren, and one very mixed-up dog. In her debut novel, Toward the Corner of Mercy and Peace, readers are introduced to heart-warming and unforgettable characters, including the wonderfully complex Minerva Place.
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Season 5, Episode 2 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Linda Joy Myers, author of the novel The Forger of Marseille.During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Myers about Varian Fry, the American journalist who ran a rescue network in Vichy France that helped 2,000 to 4,000 anti-Nazi and Jewish refugees to escape Nazi Germany and the Holocaust, the surprising moment of inspiration that led from being a memoirist to a novelist, and her new interview series called The Story Behind the Story. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Linda Joy Myers has always been haunted by the power of the past to affect people in the stream of time. Her grandmother's stories about World War II sparked her interest in history, which she later integrated into her personal struggles with intergenerational trauma and her work as a therapist and writer. As the founder of the National Association of Memoir Writers, Linda Joy has authored four books on memoir writing, including The Power of Memoir and Journey of Memoir. Her own memoirs, Don't Call Me Mother and Song of the Plains, have received prestigious awards. When she's not writing, Linda Joy enjoys traveling, tending to her garden, and sharing her passion for history with her children and grandchildren. In her newest novel, The Forger of Marseille, Sarah, a nineteen-year-old Jewish artist living in Paris at the outset of World War II, joins a secret network in Marseille dedicated to saving political refugees, writers, and artists from arrest by Hitler's Gestapo.
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Season 5 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast kicks off with Vanessa Riley, author of Queen of Exiles. During the interview, host Colin Mustful talks with Riley about the history of the Haitian Revolution, the rise to power and then exile of Queen Marie-Louise Christophe, and the issue of reparations for Haiti. Riley also delves into her past, going from a mechanical engineer to a prolific and successful novelist. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Vanessa Riley is an award-winning author of Island Queen, A Good Morning America Buzz Pick and her newest novel Queen of Exiles. Riley's historical novels showcase the hidden histories of Black women and women of color, emphasizing strong sisterhoods and dazzling multicultural communities. Her works encompass historical fiction, historical romance, and historical mystery and have been reviewed by the Washington Post, Entertainment Weekly, NPR, Publisher Weekly, and the New York Times. Her most recent novel, Queen of Exiles, is based on the life of an extraordinary Black woman from history: Haiti's Queen Marie-Louise Coidavid, who escaped a coup in Haiti to set up her own royal court in Italy during the Regency era, where she became a popular member of royal European society.
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Get ready for an exciting new season of History Through Fiction: The Podcast! Season 5 is starting on Monday, September 18 and includes a fantastic lineup of fourteen weekly episodes that you won't want to miss.
To kick off the season, we have an engaging interview with Vanessa Riley, the esteemed 2023 Georgia Author of the Year in Literary Fiction. But that's not all! We also have special episodes featuring our very own founder, Colin Mustful, author of Reclaiming Mni Sota, as well as Gin Hammond, a talented actor, playwright, and author of Returning the Bones. And if that wasn't enough, we're thrilled to have New York Times bestselling author Amy Harmon joining us for an insightful interview.
In a new twist for this season, each episode will include a captivating excerpt from the author's latest novel, read by the author themselves. So you can truly immerse yourself in their storytelling.
Make sure to subscribe to History Through Fiction: The Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts, so you don't miss out on these incredible conversations with historical novelists. They'll be sharing fascinating insights about their books and their craft. Don't wait – mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable journey through history!
In this special bonus episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with author Linda Ulleseit about her recently released novel, The River Remembers. During the conversation, Linda talks about how, as a 5th generation Californian, she became interested in the history of Fort Snelling in Minnesota Territory. She also talks about the challenges of writing outside of her own cultural viewpoint, the similarities and differences between the struggles faced by the women in her novel, and her transition from schoolteacher to award-winning novelist. Don’t miss it!
This episode of Author Spotlight is sponsored by D.G. Schulman, author of the novel Anna’s Promise - A journey of rebellion and transformation threatens the bonds of love and family.
In the final episode of our Author Spotlight series, founder and editor of History Through Fiction, Colin Mustful, chats with Lauren Belfer, author of the novel Ashton Hall. During the interview, Belfer talks about how we go about rediscovering the past, using authentic historical details to create and maintain trust with her readers, and the challenges and importance of writing a neurodivergent character. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Lauren Belfer was born in Rochester, New York, and grew up in Buffalo, where she attended the Buffalo Seminary. At Swarthmore College, she majored in Medieval Studies. After graduating, she worked as a file clerk at an art gallery, a paralegal, an assistant photo editor at a newspaper, a fact checker at magazines, and as a researcher and associate producer on documentary films. She has an MFA from Columbia University. Belfer’s debut novel, City of Light, was a New York Times bestseller, as well as a New York Times Notable Book, a Library Journal Best Book, and a Main Selection of the Book of the Month Club. City of Light was a bestseller in Great Britain and has been translated into six languages. Her newest novel, Ashton Hall, tells the story of an American woman and her son who unearth the buried secrets and past lives of an English manor house.
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In episode 13 of our Author Spotlight series, founder and editor of History Through Fiction, Colin Mustful, chats with Nicola Matthews, author of the novel Kitty Canham. During the interview, Matthews talks about the local lore of the real Kitty Canham, the rhythm of the seasons she experiences living in North Essex, and her journey from theater acting to fiction writing in her forties. She also talks about the challenges of overcoming dyslexia to become a successful fiction novelist. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Nicola Matthews lives on the ragged coastline of North Essex. In 1720 Kitty Canham was born nearby. It was their shared landscape and Kitty’s fascinating story that inspired Matthews to write her debut novel. Matthews comes from a family of actors and didn’t discover her love of writing until her mid-forties. Strangely, it was in going to art school to study sculpture that she discovered she could write. She also has a love of poetry, which she’s written on and off through life. Her debut novel, Kitty Canham: Love, Loss, and Necessary Lies, is a fictional story woven around real life events that took place on the North Essex coast in the early 18th century.
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In episode 12 of our Author Spotlight series, founder and editor of History Through Fiction, Colin Mustful, chats with Robert Bruton, author of the Double Edged Sword Series: Empire Resurgent, Empire in Apocalypse, and Empire in Twilight. During the interview, Bruton talks about the life of Byzantine Military Commander Belisarius, the reason he writes fiction instead of nonfiction, and how 6th century history relates to us today. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Robert Bruton was born in Detroit but grew up in Minnesota. In college he studied Greek and Roman history and spent a year at the University of Leuven in Belgium, where he studied philosophy and classical languages. Bruton also attended Seminary school. Afterward, he took a job with the CIA as an intelligence officer and developed a fascination with political intrigue. Bruton served in several overseas assignments, including one country that was once part of the Eastern Roman Empire. It was there that he gained a love for the region's hospitality and tradition of toasting. Bruton has traveled extensively throughout the countries that once constituted the Roman Empire and spent a great deal of time in Rome and Istanbul, where his three-part historical fiction series takes place. His novel series called The Double Edged Sword Series, tells the the story of General Flavius Belisarius, a 6th century military commander of the Byzantine Empire.
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This episode of Author Spotlight is sponsored by D.G. Schulman, author of the novel Anna’s Promise - A journey of rebellion and transformation threatens the bonds of love and family.
In episode 11 of our Author Spotlight series, founder and editor of History Through Fiction, Colin Mustful, chats with Stephanie Landsem, author of the novel Code Name Edelweiss. During the interview, Landsem talks about the rise of facism in the 1930s, the life and heroism of Leon Lewis, and the way she defines success as an author. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Stephanie Landsem writes about women in history for women who love history. She is the author of In A Far-Off Land, a story of murder, mystery and mercy set in the glamour of 1930s Hollywood and the grit of the Great Depression. She is also the author of The Living Water series — stories of women transformed by encounters with Jesus. Stephanie has traveled on four continents and dozens of countries. When she can’t travel, she reads fiction and history and dreams of her next adventure — whether it be in person or on the pages of her novels. In her new historical novel, Code Name Edelweiss, a Jewish spymaster and his courageous spies uncover a storm of Nazi terror in their own backyard.
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In episode 10 of our Author Spotlight series, founder and editor of History Through Fiction Colin Mustful chats with David Tory, author of the Stanfield Chronicles: Exploration and Retribution.During the interview, Tory talks about the English Separatists of the 16th and 17th centuries and why they came to the “New World.” He also talks about his career as a computer engineer and philanthropist, his thirty years of sailing off the eastern shore of the U.S., and the challenges of narrating his own books. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
After 30 years in the computer industry, and 13 years with the Essex County Community Foundation, author David Tory began researching philanthropy in 17th century New England. His research uncovered facts about the early settlements that appeared to be generally unknown. As he delved deeper, the character Isaac Stanfield evolved to become the observer and participant in that early history in what became his novel series The Stanfield Chronicles. Tory is also a lifelong sailor. Born in the UK, he moved to the United States in 1980 and now lives on Cape Ann, Massachusetts, with Helen, his wife of 48 years. Tory’s Stanfield Chronicles tell the story of Isaac Stanfield, a young man with a thirst for adventure.
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This episode of Author Spotlight is sponsored by D.G. Schulman, author of the novel Anna’s Promise - A journey of rebellion and transformation threatens the bonds of love and family.
In episode 9 of our Author Spotlight series, Founder and Editor of History Through Fiction, Colin Mustful, chats with Chaya Rochel Zimmerman, author of the novel The Next Pair of Shoes. During the interview, Zimmerman talks about her grandparents and their escape from the Pogroms in Poland, the challenges for today’s Jewish Orthodox community, and the meaning of communal self-reflection. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Chaya Rochel Zimmerman was born and raised in Staten Island, New York, by her immigrant Polish father and her Brooklyn-born mother. From an early age, Chaya was drawn to the world of education and its endless possibilities. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Education from Brooklyn College and her Master’s in Math Education from the University of Maryland. Subsequently, she attended Machon Chana and Bais Rivka Seminary in New York to deepen her Jewish knowledge. Her writing takes the common experience of contemporary Jewish Orthodox life, highlighting challenges and illuminating and validating them. In Zimmeran’s novel, The Next Pair of Shoes, readers step into the shoes of Froyim and Fraidel Leah as they struggle to build a brighter future, one footstep at a time.
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This episode of Author Spotlight is sponsored by Kirsteen M MacKenzie, author of the novel La Garde Ecossaise : The Life of John Hamilton 1620-1689: Part 1 - A secret war rages between Louis XIV and William of Orange.
In episode 8 of our Author Spotlight series, founder and editor of History Through Fiction Colin Mustful chats with our very own Patricia Bernstein, author of the novel A Noble Cunning. During the interview, Bernstein talks about the history of Catholic persecution in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries, her transition from writing nonfiction to fiction, and her route to publication. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Patricia Bernstein was born in El Paso and grew up in Dallas. She earned a Degree of Distinction in American Studies from Smith College and taught English at Smith for four years before returning to Texas. In Houston she founded a public relations agency and published dozens of articles in media venues as varied as Texas Monthly, Cosmopolitan and The Smithsonian. She is the author of three nonfiction books including Ten Dollars to Hate: The Texas Man Who Fought the Klan which was named one of the 53 best books ever written about Texas by the Austin American Statesman. Her debut novel, A Noble Cunning: The Countess and the Tower, is a thrilling tale, based on a true story, of one woman’s tremendous courage and incomparable wit in trying to rescue her husband from the Tower of London the night before he is to be executed.
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In episode 7 of our Author Spotlight series, founder and editor of History Through Fiction Colin Mustful chats with Edie Cay, author of A Viscount’s Vengeance. During the interview, Cay talks about her decision to write regency romances, some of the famous female boxers that have inspired her stories, her route to indie publishing, and the author marketing collective she belongs to, Paper Lantern Writers. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Edie Cay writes hard-hitting Feminist Pugilist Regency Romances. Her debut, A Lady’s Revenge won the Golden Leaf Best First Book in 2020. The next in her series, The Boxer and the Blacksmith won the Hearts Through History Legends Award as an unpublished manuscript in 2019. She has dual BAs in Creative Writing and Music, and an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Alaska Anchorage. She is a member of The Regency Fiction Writers, the Historical Novel Society, and a founding member of Paper Lantern Writers. Edie’s newest novel, A Viscount’s Vengeance, tells the story of an unassuming woman who accepts the marriage proposal of a viscount only to learn that secrets are hidden around ever corner.
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In episode 6 of our Author Spotlight series, founder and editor of History Through Fiction Colin Mustful chats with Wanda M. Morris, author of Anywhere You Run. During the interview, Morris talks about the historical background of the novel, her decision to alternate between third and first-person points of view, using her writing to highlight important civil rights issues, and the Spotify playlist she created for the novel. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Wanda M. Morris is the acclaimed author of All Her Little Secrets, which won the 2022 Lefty Award for Best Debut Mystery Novel, was a Georgia Author of the Year Finalist for Best First Novel, and has been nominated for an 2022 Anthony Award for Best First Novel. Wanda is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and Crime Writers of Color. A corporate attorney, Wanda has worked in the legal departments of some of America’s top Fortune 100 companies. She is an accomplished presenter and leader. As a former President of the Georgia Chapter of the Association of Corporate Counsel, she established a signature female empowerment program known as the Women’s Initiative. She is married, the mother of three and lives in Atlanta, Georgia. Her newest novel, Anywhere You Run, is a gripping, suspenseful novel where, after the murder of a white man in Jim Crow Mississippi, two Black sisters run away to different parts of the country . . . but can they escape the secrets they left behind?
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In episode 5 of our Author Spotlight series, founder and editor of History Through Fiction Colin Mustful chats with Gail S. Fraser, author of the novel Song for the Widowmaker. During the interview, Fraser talks about the history of jute spinning, the value of fiction to fill in historical gaps, travel research she did for the novel, and the way she incorporated authentic music into the story. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Gail S. Fraser is a professor in the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change at York University, Toronto, Ontario and conducts interdisciplinary research on extractive industries. She lives in Toronto with her husband, two cats, and occasional house guests. Her debut novel, Song for the Widowmaker, is an engaging, deeply moving tale of two Scottish immigrants, from their arduous life in Scotland, to the adversities and dangers of mining work in America.
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In episode 4 of our Author Spotlight Series, founder and editor of History Through Fiction Colin Mustful chats with Ciera Horton McElroy, author of the novel Atomic Family. During the interview, McElroy talks about her process of revising first drafts, how her own family history relates to her new novel, and the connections that the Cold War era has with political and social issues of today. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Ciera Horton McElroy is a shamelessly multi-passionate creative: she’s worked as a collegiate writing instructor, a consultant for film campaigns, a journalist on Capitol Hill, a photographer and painter, and a fiction writer, among other ventures. She served as the Communications Director on the faith campaign for the Academy Award-nominated A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD (2019) and also PAUL, APOSTLE OF CHRIST (2017). Ciera has worked as Editor-in-Chief at Kodon literary magazine and The Wheaton Record newspaper. Ciera has also published work in AGNI, The Chattahoochee Review, The Crab Orchard Review, Iron Horse Literary Review, Bridge Eight, Little Fiction, Lumina, and Flash Fiction Magazine among others. Her debut novel, Atomic Family, tells the story of a South Carolina family that endures one life-shattering day in 1961 in a town that lies in the shadow of a nuclear bomb plant.
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In episode 3 of our Author Spotlight series, founder and editor of History Through Fiction Colin Mustful chats with Joanna Davidson Politano, author of the novel The Lost Melody. During the interview, Joanna talks about the science behind music therapy, the asylum system during the Victorian era, and where she gets the ideas for her novels. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Joanna Davidson Politano is an author and freelancer who spends much of her time spinning tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives. Her manuscript for Lady Jayne Disappears was a finalist for several contests, including the 2016 Genesis Award from ACFW, and won the OCW Cascade Award and the Maggie Award for Excellence. She is always on the hunt for random acts of kindness, people willing to share their deepest secrets with a stranger, and hidden stashes of sweets. She lives with her husband and their two children in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan. Her newest novel, The Lost Melody, gives readers a lyrical look into the nature of women's independence and artistic expression during the Victorian era--and now.
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In episode 2 of our Author Spotlight podcast series, founder and editor of History Through Fiction Colin Mustful chats with Alina Rubin, author of the novel A Girl With A Knife. During the interview, Alina talks about her inspiration to begin writing after years of working in IT, the historical women who inspired her main character Ella Parker, and some important advice she received from an editor that helped propel her forward. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Alina Rubin is an IT professional and a mom, who, during the pandemic, used the time and energy saved on the commute to write her first book. Alina has a B.S. and M.S. in Business and Information Technology from DePaul University. She lives near Chicago with her husband and daughter. When not working or writing, she enjoys yoga, hiking, and traveling. A Girl with a Knife is her debut novel, the first book of the Hearts and Sails series. She also writes short stories, features about historical women, and personal and travel accounts on her A Girl On Adventure Blog.
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In episode 1 of our Author Spotlight series, founder and editor of History Through Fiction Colin Mustful chats with Elan Barnehama, author of the novel Escape Route. During the interview, Barnehama talks about the influence Bob Dylan’s music had on him in his youth, the importance of breaking the cycle of generational trauma, and what it truly means to be a New Yorker. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Elan Barnehama is a writing and literature professor whose writing has appeared in Rough Cut Press, Red Fez, Boston Accent, Jewish Fiction, Drunk Monkeys, Writer’s Digest, HuffPost, the New York Journal of Books, public radio, and elsewhere. He is a New Yorker by geography and a Mets fan by default. His new novel Escape Route is a powerful coming of age story set against the tumult of the 1960s, the War in Vietnam, and the power of memory and Jewish identity in a family of Holocaust survivors.
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History Through Fiction is proud to announce our upcoming podcast series “Author Spotlight”, featuring fourteen new interviews with historical novelists talking about their books, their craft, and their journeys to publication. New episodes will be released weekly beginning Monday, January 16.
**January 16 - Elan Barnehama** Elan Barnehama is a writing and literature professor whose writing has appeared in *Rough Cut Press, Red Fez, Boston Accent, Jewish Fiction, Drunk Monkeys, Writer’s Digest, HuffPost*, the *New York Journal of Books*, public radio, and elsewhere. He is a New Yorker by geography and a Mets fan by default. In this episode, we’ll be chatting with Elan about his novel *Escape Route* which is set in NYC during the late 1960s.
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**January 23 - Alina Rubin** Alina Rubin is an IT professional and a mom, who, during the pandemic, used the time and energy saved on the commute to write her first book. Alina has a B.S. and M.S. in Business and Information Technology from DePaul University. She lives near Chicago with her husband and daughter. When not working or writing, she enjoys yoga, hiking, and traveling. *A Girl with a Knife* is her debut novel, the first book of the *Hearts and Sails* series. She also writes short stories, features about historical women, and personal and travel accounts on her *A Girl On Adventure Blog*.
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**January 30 - Joanna Davidson Politano** Joanna Davidson Politano is an author and freelancer who spends much of her time spinning tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives. Her manuscript for *Lady Jayne Disappears* was a finalist for several contests, including the 2016 Genesis Award from ACFW, and won the OCW Cascade Award and the Maggie Award for Excellence. She is always on the hunt for random acts of kindness, people willing to share their deepest secrets with a stranger, and hidden stashes of sweets. She lives with her husband and their two children in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan. In this episode, we’ll be chatting with Joanna about her newest novel, *The Lost Melody.*
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**February 6 - Ciera Horton McElroy** Ciera Horton McElroy is a shamelessly multi-passionate creative: she’s worked as a collegiate writing instructor, a consultant for film campaigns, a journalist on Capitol Hill, a photographer and painter, and a fiction writer, among other ventures. She served as the Communications Director on the faith campaign for the Academy Award-nominated A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD (2019) and also PAUL, APOSTLE OF CHRIST (2017). Ciera has worked as Editor-in-Chief at *Kodon* literary magazine and *The Wheaton Record* newspaper. Ciera has also published work in *AGNI, The Chattahoochee Review, The Crab Orchard Review, Iron Horse Literary Review, Bridge Eight, Little Fiction, Lumina*, and *Flash Fiction Magazine* among others. In this episode, we’ll be chatting with Ciera about her debut novel, Atomic Family.
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**February 13 - Gail S. Fraser** Gail S. Fraser is a professor in the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change at York University, Toronto, Ontario and conducts interdisciplinary research on extractive industries. She lives in Toronto with her husband, two cats, and occasional house guests. In this episode, we’ll be chatting with Gail about her debut novel, *Song for the Widowmaker*.
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**February 20 - Wanda M. Morris** Wanda M. Morris is the acclaimed author of All Her Little Secrets, which won the 2022 Lefty Award for Best Debut Mystery Novel, was a Georgia Author of the Year Finalist for Best First Novel, and has been nominated for an 2022 Anthony Award for Best First Novel. Wanda is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and Crime Writers of Color. A corporate attorney, Wanda has worked in the legal departments of some of America’s top Fortune 100 companies. She is an accomplished presenter and leader. As a former President of the Georgia Chapter of the Association of Corporate Counsel, she established a signature female empowerment program known as the Women’s Initiative. She is married, the mother of three and lives in Atlanta, Georgia. In this episode, we’ll be chatting with Wanda about her newest novel, *Anywhere You Run.*
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**February 27 - Edie Cay** Edie Cay writes hard-hitting Feminist Pugilist Regency Romances. Her debut, *A Lady’s Revenge* won the Golden Leaf Best First Book in 2020. The next in her series, *The Boxer and the Blacksmith* won the Hearts Through History Legends Award as an unpublished manuscript in 2019. She has dual BAs in Creative Writing and Music, and an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Alaska Anchorage. She is a member of The Regency Fiction Writers, the Historical Novel Society, and a founding member of Paper Lantern Writers. In this episode, we’ll be chatting with Edie about her genre, her path to publishing, and her love of adventure.
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**March 6 - Patricia Bernstein** Patricia Bernstein was born in El Paso and grew up in Dallas. She earned a Degree of Distinction in American Studies from Smith College and taught English at Smith for four years before returning to Texas. In Houston she founded a public relations agency and published dozens of articles in media venues as varied as *Texas Monthly, Cosmopolitan* and *The Smithsonian*. She is the author of three nonfiction books including *Ten Dollars to Hate: The Texas Man Who Fought the Klan* which was named one of the 53 best books ever written about Texas by the *Austin American Statesman*. In this episode, we’ll be chatting with Patricia about her debut novel, *A Noble Cunning: The Countess and the Tower**.*
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**March 13 - Chaya Rochel Zimmerman** Chaya Rochel Zimmerman was born and raised in Staten Island, New York, by her immigrant Polish father and her Brooklyn-born mother. From an early age, Chaya was drawn to the world of education and its endless possibilities. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Education from Brooklyn College and her Master’s in Math Education from the University of Maryland. Subsequently, she attended Machon Chana and Bais Rivka Seminary in New York to deepen her Jewish knowledge. Her writing takes the common experience of contemporary Jewish Orthodox life, highlighting challenges and illuminating and validating them. In this episode we’ll be chatting with Chaya about her novel *The Next Pair of Shoes.*
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**March 20 - David Tory** After 30 years in the computer industry, and 13 years with the Essex County Community Foundation, author David Tory began researching philanthropy in 17th century New England. His research uncovered facts about the early settlements that appeared to be generally unknown. As he delved deeper, the character Isaac Stanfield evolved to become the observer and participant in that early history in what became his novel series *The Stanfield Chronicles*. Tory is also a lifelong sailor. Born in the UK, he moved to the United States in 1980 and now lives on Cape Ann, Massachusetts, with Helen, his wife of 48 years. In this episode, we’ll be chatting with David about novels *Exploration* and *Retribution*
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**March 27 - Stephanie Landsem** Stephanie Landsem writes about women in history for women who love history. She is the author of *In A Far-Off Land*, a story of murder, mystery and mercy set in the glamour of 1930s Hollywood and the grit of the Great Depression. She is also the author of *The Living Water* series — stories of women transformed by encounters with Jesus. Stephanie has traveled on four continents and dozens of countries. When she can’t travel, she reads fiction and history and dreams of her next adventure — whether it be in person or on the pages of her novels. In this episode, we’ll be chatting with Stephanie about her new historical novel *Code Name Edelweiss.*
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**April 3 - Robert Bruton** Robert Bruton was born in Detroit but grew up in Minnesota. In college he studied Greek and Roman history and spent a year at the University of Leuven in Belgium, where he studied philosophy and classical languages. Bruton also attended Seminary school. Afterward, he took a job with the CIA as an intelligence officer and developed a fascination with political intrigue. Bruton served in several overseas assignments, including one country that was once part of the Eastern Roman Empire. It was there that he gained a love for the region's hospitality and tradition of toasting. Bruton has traveled extensively throughout the countries that once constituted the Roman Empire and spent a great deal of time in Rome and Istanbul, where his three-part historical fiction series takes place. In this episode, we’ll be chatting with Robert about his books series called *The Double Edged Sword Series*.
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**April 10 - Nicola Matthews** Nicola Matthews lives on the ragged coastline of North Essex. In 1720 Kitty Canham was born nearby. It was their shared landscape and Kitty’s fascinating story that inspired Matthews to write her debut novel. Matthews comes from a family of actors and didn’t discover her love of writing until her mid-forties. Strangely, it was in going to art school to study sculpture that she discovered she could write. She also has a love of poetry, which she’s written on and off through life. In this episode, we’ll be chatting with Nicola about her debut novel, *Kitty Canham: Love, Loss, and Necessary Lies*.
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**April 17 - Lauren Belfer** Lauren Belfer was born in Rochester, New York, and grew up in Buffalo, where she attended the Buffalo Seminary. At Swarthmore College, she majored in Medieval Studies. After graduating, she worked as a file clerk at an art gallery, a paralegal, an assistant photo editor at a newspaper, a fact checker at magazines, and as a researcher and associate producer on documentary films. She has an MFA from Columbia University. Belfer’s debut novel, *City of Light*, was a New York Times bestseller, as well as a New York Times Notable Book, a Library Journal Best Book, and a Main Selection of the Book of the Month Club. *City of Light* was a bestseller in Great Britain and has been translated into six languages. In this episode, we’ll be chatting with Lauren about her novel *Ashton Hall*.
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In our final episode of Season 3, host Colin Mustful chats with Addison Armstrong about her new novel The War Librarian. During the conversation, Armstrong talks about her love of words and reading, the challenges of writing a dual timeline narrative, and the inspiration she receives from her sister who is studying professional aviation at Auburn University. She also talks about the history of war librarians during WWI and the strange irony of the U.S. government's effort to censor books while at same time promoting them. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Addison Armstrong graduated from Vanderbilt University in 2020 with degrees in elementary education and language and literacy studies. She received her master’s degree from Vanderbilt in Reading Education in 2021. The Light of Luna Park was her first novel. She lives with her husband in New York City where she teaches elementary school. Her newest novel, The War Librarian, is a dual timeline narrative set among the first female volunteer librarians in 1918 during World War I and the first women accepted into the U.S. Naval Academy in 1976.
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In Season 3, Episode 14 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Elizabeth Churchill, author of the novel Desolation of the Wicked City. During the conversation, Churchill talks about the history of piracy in Jamaica, the challenges of being a lawyer and fiction writer, and the process of starting her own press, Baroness Publishing. Finally, she inspires listeners by talking about how to handle rejection while making your own path to success. Don’t miss it! Seriously, it’s very uplifting.
**About the Author**
Elizabeth Churchill is an author, playwright and screenwriter, born and raised in Saint Andrew, Jamaica, in the West Indies. She attributes her love of reading and writing to Sunday evenings, spent with her mother, reading books such as Ian Serraillier’s The Silver Sword, and C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Elizabeth is also a trained Attorney, and holds a master’s degree in Intellectual Property Law. She enjoys taking trips to exotic locations, throwing parties, and writing over a glass of wine. Elizabeth is an avid TV fan, loves going to the theatre and cinema, and is a self-proclaimed history buff. In 2019, Elizabeth published her debut novel, The Time Trap’s Captive, which has been described as “a fun, imaginative and truly captivating historical read”. Her newest novel is titled Desolation of the Wicked City.
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In Season 3, Episode 13 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Eileen Brill, author of the novel A Letter in the Wall. During the conversation, Brill talks about the letter she found the wall of her home that inspired this story. She also talks about the research she did to learn more about the women who write the letter, how she creates relatable, complex characters, and her experience publishing the novel with a hybrid press. Don’t miss it!
**About the Author**
Eileen Grace Brill is a painter, writer, and Sign Language Interpreter who grew up outside of Philadelphia and graduated from Carnegie Mellon with a B.S. in Economics. She has written professionally for the restaurant, hotel, and commercial real estate industries. A Letter in the Wall is her first novel, though she has been a writer all her life, beginning at age four when she wrote a poem (filled with spelling errors!) for her babysitter. Eileen’s short story “Christmas Angel” appeared in the international literary magazine Beyond Words in 2021. She and her husband Eli raised their sons in her hometown of Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, where they still live, along with their two adopted mutts, Athena and Gaia.
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In Season 3, Episode 12 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Taylor Brown, author of Wingwalkers. During the conversation, Brown talks about the unique tidbit of information in William Faulkner’s biography that inspired him to write this story. He also talks about the history of Barnstorming, his long and precarious road to success as an author, and his own background in aviation. Don’t miss it!
In Season 3, Episode 11 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Liza Nash Taylor, author of the novel In All Good Faith. During the conversation, Taylor talks about using her home at Keswick farm as a prominent setting for her novels. She also talks about the history of candy making (yum!), her background in the fashion industry, and the transition to writing fiction after becoming an empty-nester. Don’t miss it!
In Season 3, Episode 10 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Alina Adams, author of My Mother’s Secret: A Novel of the Jewish Autonomous Region. During the conversation, Adams talks about basing the novel on the family stories she heard growing up as an immigrant from the Soviet Union. She also talks about the history of the Jewish Autonomous Region, her experience leaving the Soviet Union at age 7, and the decision to publish her book with History Through Fiction, a micro-press, instead of one of the Big 5. Don’t miss it!
In Season 3, Episode 9 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Michael X. Wang about his new novel Lost in the Long March. During the conversation, Wang talks about leaving medical school to pursue being a writer, the Communist propaganda he discovered that led him to research Mao’s Long March, and the advantage of using fiction to give readers a fuller view of history. Don’t miss it!
In Season 3, Episode 8 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Roberta Seret about her new three part historical novel series Transylvania Trilogy. During the conversation, Seret talks about creating a hybrid voice that combines history and fiction, the history of Romania and how it became a part of the European Union and NATO, and about Romania’s involvement in the Russia-Ukraine War. Finally, she talks about her love of film and the value of combining art, politics, and history on the screen. Don’t miss it!
In Season 3, Episode 7 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, guest host and HTF author Alina Adams chats with L. Bordetsky-Williams, author of Forget Russia. During the conversation, Adams and Bordetsky-Williams talk candidly about their families’ histories in Soviet Russia and the improbable notion of returning to the Soviet Union from America. They also talk about their thoughts on cultural appropriation, Jewish identity in Russia, and the reasons Bordetsky-Williams choose fiction instead of nonfiction to tell her family’s story. It is a great conversation and you don’t want to miss it!
In Season 3, Episode 6 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Alena Dillon about her new novel Eyes Turned Skyward. During the conversation, Dillon talks about the Women Airforce Service Pilots or W.A.S.P. program, the decade-long process of revising the novel, her long and uncertain path to publication, her transition from nonfiction to fiction, and the perseverance that led her to where she is today. Dillon also talks about high standards that female characters have been held to, but that are now changing to include flawed and fully-human female protagonists. Don’t miss it!
In Season 3, Episode 5 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Julie Janson about her newly republished novel Benevolence. In this conversation, Janson talks about a lot of important topics related to Indigenous land rights and history in Australia. As a Burruberongal woman of the Darug Aboriginal Nation she talks about growing up in the Australian Bush and learning about her family history. Finally, she provides readers a list of other Indigenous Australian writers she recommends. Don’t miss it!
In Season 3, Episode 4 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Judith F. Brenner about her new novel The Moments Between Dreams. During the conversation, Brenner talks about the challenges faced by her characters who must overcome Polio and Intimate Partner Violence. Brenner also talks about her decision to set the novel in post-WWII Chicago and her experience publishing with Greanleaf Book Group. While the novel was published in May, the interview with Brenner is being published in October because it is Polio Awareness Month and National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Please follow the links to learn more.
In Season 3, Episode 3 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Georgie Blalock, author of The Indiscreet Princess. During the conversation, Blalock talks about Princess Louise, the daughter of Queen Victorian and the main character of her novel, and her struggle to pursue her passion as an artist. Blalock also talks about going from screenwriting to narrative fiction, the discipline required to meet deadlines as an author, and the routines that get her maintain her discipline. Don’t miss it!
In Season 3, Episode 2 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with K.M. Butler, author of the historical Viking Normandy novel The Raven and the Dove. During the conversation, Butler talks about the Norse settlement of Francia during the late 9th century which is the setting featured in his novel. He also talks about the opening scenes of his novel, his fascination with transitional moments in history, and the important lessons history has for us today. Finally, Butler shares his insight about the publishing process. Don’t miss it!
In Season 3, Episode 1 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful chats with Yvette Manessis Corporon, author of the novel Where the Wandering Ends. During the conversation, Corporon, whose family descends from Greece, talks about the history of the Greek Civil War, the heroism of Queen Frederica, and the beautiful Greek of Corfu that acts as the setting of her novel. Finally, she talks about the years of rejection she faced before finding success as a historical novelist. Don’t miss it!
We’re so excited for Season 3 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, we made a teaser! Season 3 features fifteen episodes with historical novelists who’ll be talking about their books and their craft. A new episode will be released every Monday beginning September 12, 2022. The teaser includes one quote from each of the fifteen authors. Check it out and don’t forget to subscribe for alerts about each new episode!
History Through Fiction is proud to announce that season 3 of our podcast is kicking off on Monday, September 12! Hosted by founder and editor Colin Mustful, season 3 includes fifteen episodes released weekly. Each episode features a historical novelist who will be talking about the craft of weaving elements of history and fiction to create engaging and enlightening stories. Notable interviews include International Best-Selling author and Emmy Award winning producer Yvette Manessis Corporon, winner of the Montana Prize in Fiction Taylor Brown, and Burruberongal writer from the Darug Aboriginal Nation Julie Janson. The podcast also features an interview with History Through Fiction’s own New York Times bestselling author, Alina Adams whose Soviet-Jewish historical novel, My Mother’s Secret, comes out November 15.
This special bonus episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Allegra O’Neill and Katie Wilson, 2 of the 3 co-founders of Simily, a self-publishing platform that elevates creative writing. In this special episode, host Colin Mustful chats with the two co-founders about their groundbreaking online platform that connects writers with readers, democratizes the way stories gets seen, and pays writers for each unique view of their work. The co-founders also talk about the community-oriented features of the platform and their goals to make Simily the place to go for a personalized reading experience. If you’re a reader or a writer you don’t want to miss this episode!
In this special bonus episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, HTF intern Reina Markert talks with Sheila O’Connor about her novel Evidence of V: A Novel in Fragments, Facts, and Fictions. Called an ambitious blend of fact and fiction, Evidence of V explores history of incarcerating young girls for the crime of “sexual immorality”, something that happened to the author’s maternal grandmother at the age of 15. In the episode, host Reina Markert talks with O’Connor about some of the obstacles to her research, the challenge of being an author, character, and narrator, and the importance of starting conversations about incarceration and the criminal justice system. Don’t miss it!
Time for another Bonus Episode! This special episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Adele Myers, debut author of The Tobacco Wives. Called "a beautifully rendered portrait of a young woman finding her courage and her voice” by New York Times bestselling author Lisa Wingate, The Tobacco Wives is a coming-of-age novel set among the tobacco fields of North Carolina that sheds light on the hidden history of the tobacco industry. We chat with Myers about her background in advertising, the long and uncertain publishing process, and the important lessons her story has for readers today. Don’t miss it!
Time for a Bonus Episode! This special bonus episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Marlie Wasserman, author of The Murderess Must Die. Host Colin Mustful talks with Wasserman, a debut novelist, about her choice to tell the story of Martha Place, the first women executed by the electric chair. Wasserman also talks about the yellow journalism that plagued media coverage in the late 1890s, and she reflects on how she brought her characters to life using an up close and personal writing style. Don’t miss it!
Season 2 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast is coming to end, but we have one more interview for your listening pleasure! Episode eleven features Rachel McMillan, author of numerous books and novels including The London Restoration and her upcoming The Mozart Code. In this episode we talk with McMillan about her love of historical fiction, what architecture can teach us about the past, and the way the aftermath of war shapes us and our relationships. McMillan also tells us about the responsibility she has to be upfront about the differences between history and fiction. She also considers issues of appropriation by asking herself the questions, “Is it valid that I am telling this viewpoint? Is it right for me to tell this viewpoint? Am I the best person to tell this viewpoint?” Don’t miss this fantastic conversation!
We’re ready for episode ten, are you? History Through Fiction: The Podcast continues with Amy Belding Brown, author of Emily’s House, a novel about Emily Dickinson's longtime maid, Irish immigrant Margaret Maher, whose bond with the poet ensured Dickinson's work would live on. In this episode we chat with Brown about her choice to write a story about Margaret Maher rather than Emily Dickison. We also learn about Brown’s writing process in order to discover her character’s voices, and about the teacher that influenced Brown to become an author. Check it out!
Moving on to episode nine in Season 2 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast. This episode features writer, professor, scholar, and interpreter Julieta Almeida Rodrigues, author of the Eleonora and Joseph: Passion, Tragedy, and Revolution in the Age of Enlightenment. In this episode we chat with Rodrigues about using fiction to go beyond facts, the role women play in revolutions, and the connection that the past has to today. As Rodrigues states, just like they did during The Enlightenment, “we want to be equal, we want to be fraternal, we want to have solidarity. We might not achieve it, but I think it’s the goal of this century.” Don’t miss this fun, wide-ranging conversation!
It’s time for episode eight in Season 2 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast. This episode features Mark Sullivan, author of the World War II historical novels Beneath a Scarlet Sky and The Last Green Valley. During our insightful conversation with the author, we chat about The Long Trek faced by Black Sea Germans during WWII, an event that is the centerpiece of his newest novel. We also talk to Sullivan about his background as an investigative journalist, how he uses travel to fill gaps in his research, and the value historical fiction has by bringing history to life. Don’t miss out on this fantastic insight from bestselling author Mark Sullivan!
Season 2 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast continues with special guest Lindsey Fera, author of the just released historical novel Muskets and Minuets. A debut novel by Fera, Muskets and Minuets tells the story of Annalisa Howlett who masquerades as a man to join the colonial rebellion against the British. In this interview with the author, Fera talks about the rich history of her New England home, the challenge of portraying the mindsets of historical characters, and she shares a little bit of her perspective working as a nurse during the bleakest periods of the Covid-19 pandemic. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation!
On to episode 6 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast. This week we feature Mally Becker, author of the Revolutionary War-era novel The Turncoat’s Widow. In this episode, we talk with Becker about the volunteer role at the Morristown National Historical Park that helped her uncover some surprising information and inspired her to write The Turncoat’s Widow. We also talk about how she wrote a female protagonist in a male dominated society, what she discovered about George Washington, and her path to publication with Level Best Books. Put in your earbuds, sit back, and enjoy!
Next up on History Through Fiction: The Podcast is our very own Ron Blumenfeld, author of the historical mystery novel The King’s Anatomist: The Journey of Andreas Vesalius. In this episode we talk with Blumenfeld about the biography of Andreas Vesalius that sat on his shelves for fifty years before it finally inspired him to write his debut novel. We also chat about the challenges of studying anatomy during and before the Renaissance, the magnificent works of art included Blumenfeld’s novel, and about the risks and obstacles encountered by travelers in 16th century Europe. It was a fun, informative conversation and we think you’ll enjoy it!
This week History Through Fiction: The Podcast keeps rolling with Sadeqa Johnson, author of Yellow Wife. Named an O, the Oprah Magazine and SheReads, Most Anticipated Historical Fiction Books of 2021 Pick, Yellow Wife tells the story of Lumpkin’s Slave Jail as seen through the eyes of Pheby Delores Brown. In our conversation with Johnson, we chat about the moment that inspired her to tell this story, the importance of reading to inform your writing, and her secret to getting to know her characters on a deeper level. It’s a great conversation and you don’t want to miss it!
Episode 3 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features historian Christopher D. Stanley, author of the historical novel trilogy A Slave’s Story. We chat with Stanley about his travel research through the Greco-Roman world, the life of a slave in ancient Rome, and the differences between sharing history through fiction and nonfiction. We also talk with Stanley about the importance of history and how historical fiction can make history relatable to us today. As Stanley says, “a good historical novel can make us also ask us questions about our own world?”
Next up on History Through Fiction: The Podcast is Stephanie Landsem, author of the stunning 1930s-era novel In a Far-Off Land. In this episode we talk with Landsem about some of the important social issues raised by her novel such as women’s rights and Mexican repatriation. Landsem also talks about the joy in watching old films to research 1930s Hollywood, the birth of celebrity, and her unique way of recreating the biblical parable of The Prodigal Son. You won’t want to miss this episode, it’s the cat’s pajamas!
Leading off Season 2 of History Through Fiction: The Podcast is Sarah Penner, author of the New York Times Bestseller The Lost Apothecary. In this episode we chat with Penner about the incredible success of her debut novel and her experience transitioning from being a writer who works full-time to being a full-time writer. We also chat with her about overcoming rejection, the importance of portraying women’s stories, and her role encouraging writers who are not as far along in the process. As she states, “I think it’s important for people to know that these dreams are not inaccessible to them.” Don’t miss it!
After a fantastic first season, History Through Fiction is proud to announce that season 2 kicks off on Monday, September 13! Hosted by founder and editor Colin Mustful, season includes eleven episodes released weekly. Each episode features a historical novelist who will be talking about the craft of weaving elements of history and fiction to create engaging and enlightening stories. Notable interviews include New York Times bestselling author Sarah Penner and author of the bestselling novel Beneath a Scarlet Sky, Mark Sullivan. The podcast also features an interview with History Through Fiction’s own author, Ron Blumenfeld whose historical mystery novel, The King’s Anatomist, comes out October 12.
In this bonus episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, we step away from elements of writing to talk with Oanh Jordan, the founder of Tiny Triumph Co., about elements of marketing—relationship marketing. Jordan, who operates her own literary marketing consulting firm, talks with host Colin Mustful about how she went from being an engineer to helping authors discover and design purpose-driven marketing strategies. She also talks about using social media to reach a larger audience and what the book industry will look like in the post-pandemic world. If you’re an author with an upcoming or published book, don’t miss this insightful interview!
Bonus Episode! In the first-ever bonus episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast we bring you publisher, entrepreneur, and book lover, Sue Arroyo. Unlike our usual episodes, we break away from the craft of historical fiction to take an insider look at publishing. Founder of History Through Fiction Colin Mustful talks with the Arroyo, the founder of CamCat Books, about her long and challenging path to publishing, the importance of establishing an author platform, and the joy in finding what she calls “books to live in.”
In our final episode of season one, host Colin Mustful talks with novelist, memoirist, playwright, and screenwriter Dale Swanson. Author the historical novels The Thirty-Ninth Man and Tears of Sorrow, Swanson discusses the intricacies of his research, the process of working with an editor to cut 80,000 words from his manuscript, and his goal of inspiring readers toward forgiving but never forgetting. You don’t want to miss it!
History Through Fiction: The Podcast continues with episode nine featuring F.M. Deemyad, author of the upcoming historical novel The Sky Worshipers. A novel of Mongol conquests, The Sky Worshipers tells history from a new perspective, showing readers how the vast Mongol empire was transformed from within by three captive princesses. Deemyad, who was born in Iran and developed a love of English literature at an early age, talks with host Colin Mustful about her desire to share the stories of the captive and conquered. She also talks about the her intensive, systematic research, the emotional connections created through well-developed fictional characters, and the overall impacts of the Mongol Empire on culture, religion, and science.
Next up on History Through Fiction: The Podcast is historical novelist and writer of women’s adventure stories set in the West, Ashley E. Sweeney. Her novels include Eliza Waite, which tells the story of widow who heads north during the Alaskan gold rush of 1898, and Answer Creek, a gripping tale of adventure and survival based on the true story of the ill-fated Donner Party on their 2,200-mile trek on the Oregon-California Trail from 1846 to '47. In this episode, Sweeney talks about the importance and challenge of adhering to historical accuracy, the value of having deadlines, and the discoveries she made traveling along the Oregon trail.
Episode seven features Jason Lee Willis, a prolific author with a passion for storytelling. In this conversation, the author, who is also a High School English teacher, talks to us about his love of writing, his daily routine of writing 1,000 words every morning, and the research that’s led him to make a series of YouTube videos about explorer Joseph Nicollet. We also talk with Jason about writing Native characters and how he confronts issues of cultural appropriation. Don’t miss it!
In this episode, we chat with Elizabeth Wetmore, the New York Times bestselling author of the historical thriller, Valentine. A native of West Texas, Wetmore talks about her deep connection to the landscape, the people, and the challenges they face. She also talks about what it’s like to be a working-class writer, the way she allowed her characters’ voices to direct her writing, and the months and years when she thought about walking away from her manuscript. Don’t miss this fantastic and inspiring conversation.
Episode five of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features our own Nancy Burkhalter, author of the novel, The Education of Delhomme: Chopin, Sand, & La France. With Chopin’s Nocturne Op. 9, No. 2, as intro and outro music, listeners will enjoy some great music along with great literary conversation. In this episode, Nancy Burkhalter talks about writing fiction as therapy, the unique symbiosis that exists between tuner and musician, and the craft elements she used to bring to life famed composer Frédéric Chopin as well as many other famous and infamous historical figures.
If you love stories, you’ll love this interview with Thomas Maltman—a magnificent storyteller and author of The Land. Listen as host of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, Colin Mustful, chats with the historical novelist and mystery writer about the challenges of mixing genres, the value of fiction to keep stories alive, and the importance of going deep into the lives of his characters to reveal emotional truths that are central to the human experience.
This episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast features Finola Austin, author of the wildly popular historical novel Brontë’s Mistress. Austin, who is also known as The Secret Victorianist, talks with host Colin Mustful about her love of nineteenth century English literature, her transition from academia to becoming a novelist, and the moment she knew she had a story to tell.
In episode two we talk with Stephen Yoch, author of the novel Becoming George Washington. Yoch, a lawyer by day, discusses the value of research while noting the importance of precision in his writing so that readers know what’s real and what’s not real. He also talks about the long but rewarding process of bringing history to life stating, “adding human detail to history, I think, is the great quest of historical fiction.”
William Kent Krueger is a nine time New York Times bestselling author. Known for his Cork O’Connor mystery series set in the north woods of Minnesota, Krueger is also the author of several stand alone novels such as The Devil’s Bed and Ordinary Grace. Krueger, who grew up in Oregon and now lives in St. Paul, Minnesota, is the recipient of numerous awards including the Minnesota Book Award and Edgar Award, given by the Mystery Writers of America for his book Ordinary Grace. His most recent novel, set in 1932 at an Indian boarding school in Central Minnesota, is titled This Tender Land.
Host Colin Mustful introduces listeners to a brand new podcast featuring historical novelists talking about their craft.
