Historical Fiction
Sic Parvis Magna Sample Chapter—Family Dinner
I'm thrilled to share this early glimpse into my historical fiction novel. Please keep in mind that while this chapter is nearly complete, it may still include minor typos or be changed slightly before release. Your early interest means a great deal—thank you for taking this journey with me. If you enjoyed the read, please consider subscribing to my updates and posting about this on your social media.
Sic Parvis Magna Sample Chapter—The Heretic
I'm thrilled to share this early glimpse into my historical fiction novel. Please keep in mind that while this chapter is nearly complete, it may still include minor typos or be changed slightly before release. Your early interest means a great deal—thank you for taking this journey with me. If you enjoyed the read, please consider subscribing to my updates and posting about this on your social media.
Sic Parvis Magna Sample Chapter—Going On Delivery
In the opening scene of Sic Parvis Magna, young Francis Drake leaves his family's farm on an ordinary errand and walks into a Tavistock darkening with rumor, alarm bells, and the first signs of the Western Rebellion. The boy will run. The man will cross oceans, challenge the power of Spain, and alter the course of English history.
The Last Song - Historical Flash Fiction
In the opulent and treacherous court of Henry VIII, a low-born musician Mark Smeaton strums a defiant, treasonous melody...
Historical Fiction Announcements
Stay informed with the latest announcements about Paul Jariabek's historical fiction. This section's posts are about new book releases and website content to upcoming appearances, signings, contests, and special events, to keep you up to date. Never miss a moment in this historical adventure!
Who Was Francis Drake? The Legend Behind Sic Parvis Magna
Discover the real Francis Drake behind the legend — a man of daring voyages, ruthless ambition, and moral complexity. This in-depth historical fiction profile explores Drake's rise from humble beginnings to privateer, circumnavigator, and Spanish nemesis. His life inspires the adventures in my historical fiction novel Sic Parvis Magna, where Tudor politics, personal ambition, and the harsh realities of the Age of Discovery collide. Dive into Drake's world of high-seas adventure, betrayal, and shifting loyalties that helped shape England's naval empire.
Book Review: Historical Fiction Novel The Order by Peter Portelli
Peter Portelli's The Order offers a gripping, unvarnished retelling of the Great Siege of Malta. With sharp character portrayals and a spotlight on the often-overlooked role of the Maltese, this historical fiction novel challenges heroic myths and exposes the brutal cost of war. Read more to explore how power, pride, and sacrifice collide in one of history's most dramatic sieges.
Mystery Book Review: Vicar Brekonridge by Richard Helms
A review of Vicar Brekonridge, a gripping historical mystery novel that retells the real-life M'Naughten trial—a turning point in British legal history. Set in the period of real political unrest and radical ideas, this story blends criminal intrigue with 19th-century social upheaval which challenged the meaning of justice.
Villain Sketch: Pirate Captain Guy Alfonse Guichenot
Discover the historical fiction villain Captain Guichenot from Sic Parvis Magna. This behind-the-scenes character sketch reveals how the ruthless 16th-century privateer was originally crafted to challenge Francis Drake, embodying the brutal world of early modern piracy. Explore the creative process, historical details, and psychology that shaped this dark figure from the novel.
Book Review: Historical Fiction Novel Ben's Bones by Robert Gioconda
In this richly layered historical fiction novel, Joseph Gioconda explores the dawn of modern medicine through the eyes of William Hewson, a real-life anatomist caught between scientific discovery and moral sacrifice. Set in 1750s London, Ben's Bones intertwines medical breakthroughs, personal ambition, and ethical dilemmas—perfect for fans of historical fiction vividly grounded in true events.
Sic Parvis Magna Meaning: Francis Drake's Motto Explained
In this post, I look at how the phrase became linked to Drake, what it suggests about his rise, and why it became the title of my Tudor-era historical fiction novel.
Historical Fiction Villain Sketch of James Reynard
Historical fiction thrives on complex characters shaped by real events. In this exclusive character sketch from Sic Parvis Magna, explore the troubled past of James Reynard—a fictional villain born amid the brutal upheavals of Tudor England. Inspired by history, Reynard's personal tragedy, betrayal, and violent path offer a gripping portrait of survival, ambition, and revenge in a world torn by religious and political turmoil.