Historical Fiction
St. Elmo's Fire by Oliver Theakston: Historical Fiction Review
Oliver Theakston's St. Elmo's Fire is a maritime historical fiction novel about Magellan's 1519 voyage in search of a westward route to the Spice Islands. It is a sober, thoughtful story of ambition, violence, mutiny, and empire, with strong period detail and an unsentimental view of Magellan's command. Readers interested in Magellan, Elcano, sea voyages, and exploration will find it a worthwhile read.
Book Review: Historical Fiction Novel Trust and Treason by JR Tomlin
In this gripping work of historical fiction, JR Tomlin brings 14th-century Scotland to life through the eyes of Sir Archibald Douglas, a warrior torn between loyalty, betrayal, and survival. Set amid the fallout of Neville's Cross and the ravages of the Black Plague, Trust and Treason immerses readers in a vivid world of political intrigue and personal sacrifice. A must-read for fans of medieval historical fiction seeking rich atmosphere and emotional stakes.
Fantasy Book Review: Alchemy Thief by R A Denny
A reader's review of The Alchemy Thief, a richly layered historical fiction novel with elements of time travel and historical fantasy. Follow Peri, a modern college student, as she's thrust into 17th-century New England and Morocco, crossing paths with pirates, Puritans, and more. Fans of immersive historical fiction and character-driven fantasy will find much to enjoy in this well-researched story.
AI-Generated Illustrations for Historical Fiction: A Visual Experiment
In this visual experiment, I explore how AI-generated illustrations can support the worldbuilding of historical fiction. Using prompts inspired by 16th-century sailing, piracy, and Sir Francis Drake, I tested how well an image generation model interprets historical themes. The results range from surreal abstractions to surprisingly accurate graphics. While hardly final covers, the images offer inspiration and serve as creative aids for artists.
Book Review: Historical Fiction Novel Wall of Tears by David Kerr
In Wall of Tears, David Kerr weaves Holocaust legacy, biblical allegory, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict into a powerful tale of love, loss, and forgiveness. Rich with emotional depth and historical resonance, this novel offers a rare lens into generational trauma and cultural reconciliation—making it a must-read for fans of the best historical fiction books.
Historical Fiction Short Story Retribution By Paul Jariabek
The historical fiction short story Retribution follows a young Francis Drake in 1557 as he volunteers for a daring cut-out raid to reclaim the captured English ship Lionheart from French privateers. Drake is still uncertain of his future but finds clarity and resolve through this early brush with conflict and risk. The story explores his formative years under the patronage of the powerful Hawkins family, setting the stage for his transformation into one of England's most feared naval commanders. Retribution is set between the series opener Sic Parvis Magna and the upcoming novel First Blood
Book Review: Historical Fiction Novel Airy Nothing by Clarissa Pattern
In this vivid and moving historical YA novel set in Elizabethan England, a lonely, effeminate boy named John escapes abuse and seeks magic and belonging in Shakespearean London. Along the way, he forms an unexpected friendship with a streetwise pickpocket and discovers his place in the world through theatre. This is a tender, richly detailed coming-of-age story that explores identity, resilience, and the transformative power of art. A highly recommended read for fans of historical fiction and LGBTQ+ narratives.
Researching Francis Drake's Ship the Tiger
What kind of ship did Francis Drake first sail on? In this behind-the-scenes post about the research that went into writing Sic Parvis Magna, I explore the real historical vessels—like the Gresham Ship, and the Newport Ship—that helped shape my portrayal of Drake's early years at sea on a armed merchantman the Tiger. From piracy to trade this post is a deep dive into the ships that helped to forge a legend.
Book Review: The Heretic Wind by Judith Arnopp
Step into the mind of "Bloody" Mary Tudor in this quiet historical fiction novel that challenges everything you thought you knew. Judith Arnopp's The Heretic Wind offers a deeply human portrayal of one of England's most controversial queens, weaving personal struggle with political turmoil in Tudor England. A must-read for historical fiction fans seeking understand the woman behind the myth.
The Art in Retribution: Illustrating Francis Drake
A historical fiction book allows the reader to experience what it could have been like "back then." Vivid descriptions are one way to start this experience for the reader. Theme-appropriate artwork is another. Read about the artwork in the historical fiction short story Retribution.
Opening Scene of the Historical Fiction Short Story Retribution
I'm thrilled to share the first scene of the historical fiction short story Retribution. Your interest means a great deal—thank you for taking this journey with me. If you enjoyed the read, please consider reviewing Retribution on Amazon or goodreads, subscribing to my updates and posting about this on your social media.
Paul Jariabek's Historical Fiction Blog
A curated collection of historical fiction essays, explorations of characters, and reflections times past.