Episodios

  • Bonus Episode - Sparks of the Revolution with Todd Otis

    Bonus Episode - Sparks of the Revolution with Todd Otis
    Jul 4 2025
    In this special bonus episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful sits down with Todd Otis, author of Sparks of the Revolution. The conversation dives into the life and legacy of James Otis, a pivotal yet often overlooked figure in the early resistance against British rule. Todd shares insights into Otis’s legal battles, his mental health struggles, and his influence on key revolutionary figures like Sam Adams and Mercy Otis Warren. The discussion also explores the relevance of Otis’s story to today’s political climate and the enduring power of the written word in shaping democracy. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that bridges history and the present.
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    28 m
  • Season 8, Episode 13 - Alina Adams and Kyra Davis Lurie

    Season 8, Episode 13 - Alina Adams and Kyra Davis Lurie
    May 5 2025
    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.
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    47 m
  • Season 8, Episode 12 - Billie Hanson-Dupree

    Season 8, Episode 12 - Billie Hanson-Dupree
    Apr 28 2025
    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.
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    26 m
  • Season 8, Episode 11 - Sarah Penner

    Season 8, Episode 11 - Sarah Penner
    Apr 21 2025
    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.
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    32 m
  • Season 8, Episode 10 - Robert Dugoni, Jeff Langholz, and Chris Crabtree

    Season 8, Episode 10 - Robert Dugoni, Jeff Langholz, and Chris Crabtree
    Apr 14 2025
    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.
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    35 m
  • Season 8, Episode 9 - C.W. Towarnicki

    Season 8, Episode 9 - C.W. Towarnicki
    Apr 7 2025
    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.
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    34 m
  • Season 8, Episode 8 - Shara Moon

    Season 8, Episode 8 - Shara Moon
    Mar 31 2025
    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.
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    27 m
  • Season 8, Episode 7 - Margaret Pinard

    Season 8, Episode 7 - Margaret Pinard
    Mar 24 2025
    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.
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    27 m