About
- Established in 1997, the Historical Novel Society is an international literary society devoted to promotion and advocacy for the genre of historical fiction.
Membership
- Historical Novel Society members include authors, readers, librarians, editors and industry professionals – membership is entirely open, and anyone enthusiastic about the genre is welcome.
Events
- Our worldwide membership loves to meet. Many travel thousands of miles to attend our conferences in person; many more enjoy our virtual options from home. Others form member connections in their area through regular Local Chapter meet-ups. Discover what’s on with conferences, Local and Virtual Chapters, and more.
Book Reviews
- Our exclusive, members-only print magazine, the Historical Novels Review, publishes reviews of hundreds of historical fiction books each quarter, in addition to features and columns. Become a member to receive the magazine and enjoy all our other benefits.
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Articles
- We publish articles in our members-only print magazine, Historical Novels Review, as well as web features exclusive to this site. All are original pieces, commissioned by our Features Editors based on topics of interest to members – interviews with historical fiction authors, publishers, and agents; explorations of novels and subgenres; guides, and regular columns on historical fiction market news, debut authors, and more. Articles are written by vetted contributors, most of whom are Society members. If you’re a member interested in joining the team, Contact Us.
Awards
- HNS Awards have helped discover authors and launch their careers (e.g., Michel Faber, Ruth Downie, Nikki Marmery, Hilary Green, Elizabeth Macneal, and many more) and provided vital support for others. Our ARA Award is one of the most generous of all literary prizes. If you’d like to partner to sponsor an award, Contact Us.
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HNR Issue 116 (May 2026)

May 1, 2026 1:00 am

This issue contains:

Cover Story, Nero: History, Fiction, Or Just for Fun | by Susie Helme
Historical Fiction Market News, a column with the latest book deals and publications in historical fiction, including new books by HNS members | by Sarah Johnson
New Voices, a column focusing on debut novelists Judy Batalion, Moorea Corrigan, Jiyoung Han
& Laura Vogt | by Myfanwy Cook
History & Film, Barry Lyndon | by Ben Bergonzi
Interviews with Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie (by Kate Braithwaite), Ian McGuire (by Bethany Latham), Eve J. Chung (by Edward James), Sharon Spaulding (by Trish MacEnulty) and Shona MacLean (by Lucinda Byatt),
Reviews of more than 300 of the latest and greatest books in historical fiction and nonfiction, including Editors’ Choice titles

Members can read our magazines online

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HNR Issue 116 (May 2026)

Members can read our magazines online

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