In this Office Hours conversation, Colin Mustful and Melissa Makarewicz move from the mechanics of storytelling to the realities of building a sustainable writing life. They unpack the difference between interiority and foreshadowing, why subtlety matters on the page, and how writers can trust readers more while still guiding emotion and tension.
From there, the discussion turns to something just as essential: support. Melissa shares why authors and creatives thrive when they build intentional communities—through coaching, peer groups, Substack connections, and collaborative spaces like History Through Fiction’s team time. Colin reflects on recent events as well, including a conversation with Rob Hardy, a BIPOC historical fiction panel, and the ongoing challenge of balancing literary values, diversity, and sustainability in publishing.
They also preview upcoming workshops, events, and opportunities for writers and readers to connect more deeply with the History Through Fiction community.
If you’re thinking about craft, community, publishing, or the future of historical fiction, this conversation offers practical insight, honest reflection, and encouraging next steps.
