How to Write History Through Fiction
A four-part virtual workshop that helps you write engaging, accurate historical fiction—with expert tips, author Q&As, and hands-on support.
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About this event
Historical fiction transports readers to another time and place, illuminating the past through the lens of compelling characters and imaginative storytelling. But how do writers balance historical accuracy with narrative drive? In this four-part virtual workshop, author, historian, and History Through Fiction founder Colin Mustful guides participants through the craft of writing historical fiction that is both engaging and true to the past. Each session focuses on a different storytelling technique—mining history for plot, crafting dual timelines, developing powerful character arcs, and navigating the publishing process—using exemplary novels from HTF authors. Featuring live Q&As with Alina Adams, Jillian Forsberg, and Charles Bush, the workshop also includes writing prompts, breakout sessions, and an optional add-on for writers preparing to query or publish. Whether you're just starting your novel or refining a final draft, this series will help you bring history to life on the page.
Session 1: Building a Powerful Character Arc – Using excerpts from The Boy with the Jade by Charles Bush, instructor Colin Mustful will teach attendees how to develop meaningful character arcs that reflect both personal growth and historical circumstance. Includes a live Q&A with Charles Bush.
Session 2: Using History to Write Historical Fiction – Using excerpts from Go On Pretending by Alina Adams, instructor Colin Mustful will teach attendees how to build compelling historical fiction by drawing directly from real people, places, and events. Includes a live Q&A with Alina Adams.
Session 3: The Dual Timeline – Using excerpts from The Porcelain Menagerie by Jillian Forsberg, instructor Colin Mustful will teach attendees how to construct an effective dual timeline narrative that enhances character, deepens historical context, and builds tension. Includes a live Q&A with Jillian Forsberg.
Session 4: The Query and Publishing Process (Add-on Session) - Co-instructors Colin Mustful and Robin Henry will teach readers about the query and publication process while helping them understand the differences between independent, hybrid, and traditional methods of publishing.
Frequently asked questions
To register, simply select any workshop date to access the registration page. Choose the ticket labeled "Sessions 1–3" to attend the first three sessions—there’s no need to register for each session individually. The $95 registration fee covers all three. Select the add-on to register for session 4.
Writers at any stage—whether you're just starting a novel or refining a final draft—will benefit from this series. It’s especially suited for those writing or interested in writing historical fiction.
The workshop takes place on Mondays beginning September 22, 2025, from 7:00 to 8:30 PM Central Time. The first three sessions will run 90 minutes each, while the fourth and final session will be one hour.
Yes! Each session includes a live Q&A with featured authors, as well as breakout sessions for small group discussion and writing prompts.
Yes. The cost for the first three sessions is $95. The fourth add-on session is $20.
While each session can stand on its own, we recommend attending the full series for a comprehensive understanding of writing historical fiction. Recordings will be available for all registrants.
Yes. All registered participants will receive access to session recordings and materials after each event.
The workshop is limited to just 10 writers to ensure an intimate, interactive experience where everyone has the opportunity to participate, ask questions, and receive personalized feedback.
Session 1: Building a Powerful Character Arc (feat. Charles Bush) Session 2: Using History to Write Historical Fiction (feat. Alina Adams) Session 3: The Dual Timeline (feat. Jillian Forsberg) Session 4: The Query and Publishing Process (with Colin Mustful & Robin Henry)
This three-part virtual workshop with a fourth session add-on that is designed to help writers create engaging and historically accurate fiction. Led by author, historian, and HTF founder Colin Mustful, each session focuses on a different element of storytelling.
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At History Through Fiction, our mission is to address the gap between history and storytelling through well-researched, engaging, and diverse narratives.