SUBJECT GUIDES
The Historical Novel Society offers guides to assist those interested in historical fiction. You'll find here information on a variety of subjects useful for historical research, as well as information on the writing and publishing process.
Forthcoming Children’s and YA Historical Novels for 2026
Subject:
The Historical Novel Society lists mainstream and small press titles for readers aged 4 – 18, with settings from ancient times to the mid 1970s. Details are pulled from publisher catalogues and websites; Amazon; NetGalley; Publishers Weekly forecasts; Edelweiss US... Read More
Story ideas from U.S. university digital collections sites
BY B.J. SEDLOCK Are you an author stuck for a story idea? You can find some interesting ones by browsing U.S. universities’ digital collections websites for primary source documents, such as these examples below. To explore beyond this list, use... Read More
Is your protagonist an orphan? Some research ideas
BY B.J. SEDLOCK A search for “orphan” on the HNS website will retrieve over 400 book reviews that mention the word. Incorporating an orphaned character is a popular option for many historical fiction authors. Not having parents gives a young... Read More
Medieval Weapons and Warfare: Research Sources
Subjects:
Early Medieval (through 1337)Late Medieval (1337-1485)Military
BY B.J. SEDLOCK A scan of the Historical Novels Review shows that there are fewer historical novels set in the Middle Ages than those set in more recent centuries. But authors and readers with a passion for medieval times may... Read More
India in Children’s Historical Fiction
Subjects:
Children & Young AdultHistorical Novels Review
WRITTEN BY ANN LAZIM There has been an increase in UK children’s publishing in books that are set in India and also some that feature characters of Indian/South Asian heritage in a UK historical setting. This includes a recent mini... Read More
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