History Through Fiction - The Podcast

In this episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful sits down with Carol M. Cram, author of The Choir. Set in 1890s Victorian England, this compelling novel explores the lives of two estranged friends, Eliza Kingwill and Ruth, against the backdrop of a fictional mill town and the vibrant world of choir competitions. Carol shares the inspiration behind the story, rooted in her own family history, and delves into the challenges faced by working-class women like Eliza, who dreams of escaping an abusive marriage. Meanwhile, Ruth, a once-famous singer, grapples with a fall from grace as she becomes a choir adjudicator. Together, their journeys highlight themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the redemptive power of music. Discover the historical significance of choir competitions in late Victorian England, the creative process behind crafting authentic characters, and how Carol’s lifelong passion for the arts shapes her storytelling. Plus, hear about her upcoming novel set in post-war Canada and her dedication to celebrating the arts through her podcast, Art and Fiction, and other creative endeavors. 📚 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about history, music, and the transformative power of community.

In this episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful talks with Mirta Ojito, author of Deeper Than the Ocean. Mirta shares the real-life shipwreck that inspired her novel and discusses the dual timelines of her story, following Catalina, an early 20th-century immigrant, and Mara, a modern journalist. The conversation explores themes of migration, family secrets, and the enduring impact of history, blending personal experience with historical research to bring forgotten stories to light. History Through Fiction is more than a podcast — it's a home for stories, community, and craft. Explore our growing catalog of historical novels, attend workshops and events, connect with fellow readers and writers, and be part of a mission dedicated to celebrating the power of history through narrative. Discover more at historythroughfiction.com.

In this episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful talks with Loretta Ellsworth about her novel, The Jilted Countess. Inspired by a true story, the book follows a Hungarian countess who, after World War II, travels to Minnesota to marry a soldier—only to discover he has wed someone else. Facing deportation, she becomes the subject of a newspaper appeal and receives nearly 1,800 marriage proposals. Ellsworth discusses her research, the blend of fact and fiction, and the resilience of her unforgettable heroine. History Through Fiction is more than a podcast — it's a home for stories, community, and craft. Explore our growing catalog of historical novels, attend workshops and events, connect with fellow readers and writers, and be part of a mission dedicated to celebrating the power of history through narrative. Discover more at historythroughfiction.com.

In this episode of History Through Fiction, host Colin Mustful interviews Deepa Anappara, author of "The Last of Earth." Anappara discusses her historical novel set in 19th-century Tibet, exploring themes of colonialism, cartography, and identity through the perspectives of Balram, an Indian schoolteacher turned explorer, and Catherine, a determined female adventurer. The conversation delves into the novel’s historical context, the challenges of writing overlooked voices, and the enduring impact of imperialism on personal and national identity. History Through Fiction is more than a podcast — it's a home for stories, community, and craft. Explore our growing catalog of historical novels, attend workshops and events, connect with fellow readers and writers, and be part of a mission dedicated to celebrating the power of history through narrative. Discover more at historythroughfiction.com.

In this episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews Lynn Cullen, author of "When We Were Brilliant." Cullen discusses her inspiration for the novel, focusing on the unique relationship between photographer Eve Arnold and Marilyn Monroe. The conversation explores Eve’s groundbreaking career, her empathetic approach to photography, and the challenges both women faced in a male-dominated world. Cullen also shares insights into her writing process and passion for historical fiction. History Through Fiction is more than a podcast — it's a home for stories, community, and craft. Explore our growing catalog of historical novels, attend workshops and events, connect with fellow readers and writers, and be part of a mission dedicated to celebrating the power of history through narrative. Discover more at historythroughfiction.com.

In this episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews Gabriella Saab, author of The Star Society. Inspired by Audrey Hepburn’s early life, the novel follows Ada, a Dutch resistance survivor who reinvents herself in postwar America. As Ada’s twin sister, Ingrid, investigates communist influences in Hollywood, the sisters’ bond is tested by secrets and political intrigue. Saab discusses her research, writing process, and the importance of sisterhood and loyalty at the heart of her historical fiction. History Through Fiction is more than a podcast — it's a home for stories, community, and craft. Explore our growing catalog of historical novels, attend workshops and events, connect with fellow readers and writers, and be part of a mission dedicated to celebrating the power of history through narrative. Discover more at historythroughfiction.com.

In this episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews Vanessa Riley, author of Fire, Sword, and Sea. Riley discusses the chaotic world of 17th-century Caribbean piracy, the challenges faced by women and Black pirates, and the research behind her heroine, Jacquotte Delahaye. Listeners will hear about the realities versus myths of piracy, the importance of telling untold stories, and Riley’s passion for bringing overlooked historical figures to life through engaging, well-researched fiction. History Through Fiction is more than a podcast — it's a home for stories, community, and craft. Explore our growing catalog of historical novels, attend workshops and events, connect with fellow readers and writers, and be part of a mission dedicated to celebrating the power of history through narrative. Discover more at historythroughfiction.com.

In this episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews author Karen Essex about her two-volume novel on Cleopatra. Essex reveals the real Cleopatra—an intelligent, multilingual ruler—contrasting her with the seductive figure from pop culture. She discusses her extensive research, including graduate studies and travel, and shares insights into the challenges of both traditional and independent publishing. Essex also talks about her broader storytelling career in film and television, her bestselling novel Leonardo’s Swans, and her upcoming book Run, Darling, about the Gabor Sisters’ dramatic escape from Nazi-occupied Hungary.

In this episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful talks with Herb Williams-Dalgart, author of the novel "Jingle Boys." Set in Brooklyn during World War II, the story follows Wally Lipkin, a young man facing the draft and struggling with anxiety neurosis—a condition that could either send him to war or to a sanatorium. Herb discusses the inspiration behind Wally’s unique journey, including a real-life jingle contest that offers a chance at a safer, stateside job, and the fascinating history of music’s role in wartime. The conversation also explores Herb’s personal connection to WWII and his research process.

In this episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful talks with Wendy Holden, author of "The Teacher of Auschwitz." Holden shares the remarkable story of Freddie Hirsch, a Jewish youth leader who became a beacon of hope for children during the Holocaust. Through resilience, compassion, and courage, Hirsch fought to protect and inspire young lives in the darkest of times. Holden discusses her research, the challenges of fictionalizing history, and the enduring importance of remembering stories like Freddie’s today.

In this episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews J. Suzanne Wilson, author of The Death and Life of Iphigenia. Jenny shares her inspiration for reimagining the myth of Iphigenia, daughter of Agamemnon, and discusses her journey from academic study to crafting historical fiction. Discover how Jenny blends research, imagination, and personal experience to bring ancient Greece to life, and hear about her path as an independent author, her travels, and what’s next in her myth-inspired series.

In this episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews Dennard Tyler Dayle, author of How to Dodge a Cannonball. Dayle shares an excerpt and discusses his satirical take on the Civil War through the eyes of Anders, a teenage flag twirler. They explore the novel’s humor, unique structure, and the complexities of loyalty and survival. Dayle also reflects on his research, character development, and publishing journey, offering insight into the importance of staying sane amid chaos.

In this episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful speaks with with Meagan Church, author of "The Mad Wife." Meagan begins by reading a powerful excerpt from her novel, setting the stage for a deep dive into the story’s themes and historical context. The conversation explores the life of Lulu Mayfield, a 1950s housewife whose seemingly perfect suburban existence unravels as she confronts societal expectations, mental health struggles, and the mysterious new neighbor across the street.

In this episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful sits down with Katherine Reay, author of The English Masterpiece. Set in 1973 London, this gripping historical novel follows Diana Gilden, the first female keeper of the modern collections at the Tate Gallery, and her assistant, Lily Summers, as they navigate the high-stakes world of art forgery. When Lily identifies a Picasso painting as a forgery, a scandal erupts, threatening careers and the reputation of the Tate Gallery. Katherine shares her meticulous research process, from exploring the archives of the Tate Gallery to interviewing art insurance experts. She also delves into the fascinating history of forgeries, the psychology of forgers, and the challenges of weaving historical, thriller, and romantic elements into a cohesive narrative. Tune in to hear Katherine discuss her creative process, her love for history, and her upcoming project, The Undercover Bookshop.

In this intriguing episode of History Through Fiction the podcast, host Colin Mustful welcomes back Jillian Forsberg to discuss her new novel, The Porcelain Menagerie, a companion to The Rhino Keeper. Jillian shares the real history behind her characters, the challenges of writing about dark truths, and the importance of artistic legacy. The conversation explores the novel’s blend of art, intrigue, and animal stories, as well as Jillian’s writing journey, her partnership with History Through Fiction, and the value of collaboration in publishing.

In this intriguing episode of History Through Fiction the podcast, host Colin Mustful speaks with author Angela Shupe to discuss her debut novel In the Light of the Sun, inspired by her own family history. Set during World War II in both Italy and the Philippines, the novel explores resilience, faith, and the power of music amid wartime upheaval. Shupe shares how opera, resistance movements, and personal memory shaped her storytelling in this moving conversation.

In this intriguing episode of History Through Fiction the podcast, host Colin Mustful speaks with author Kristen Loesch to discuss her novel The Hong Kong Widow, a sweeping historical mystery set across 1930s Shanghai, 1950s Hong Kong, and modern-day Hong Kong. Loesch shares how family history, urban legends, and the idea of a “collective hallucination” shaped her story. She reveals the challenges of weaving multiple timelines, creating atmospheric settings, and balancing research with character-driven storytelling.

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

In this intriguing episode of History Through Fiction the podcast, host Colin Mustful interviews Joy Calloway, author of The Star of Camp Green, a novel inspired by Broadway star Elsie Janis and set in a World War I army training camp. Joy discusses her research into Camp Green’s history, the real-life inspirations behind her characters, and the challenges of blending fact with fiction. Listeners will hear about the home front during WWI, the creative process, and Joy’s journey from marketing director to published author.

In this episode of History Through Fiction the podcast, author Charles Bush joins host Colin Mustful to discuss his novel The Boy with the Jade, a reimagining of the Chinese classic Dream of the Red Chamber. Charles shares his process of adapting the epic story, focusing on the character Bao Yu, and explores the novel’s historical context, symbolism, and philosophical themes. Discover how Charles’s personal journey and research brought new life to this timeless tale for modern readers.Rhys shares insights into her meticulous research process, the historical backdrop of pre-WWII France, and the themes of resilience and reinvention that shape Ellie’s story. She also reflects on the power of community, the role of women during WWII, and her own journey as an author. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about history, fiction, and the courage to start anew.