Historical Fiction Markets 10 Steps to Publishing Success

Historical fiction markets can feel tricky, right? You might think breaking into this genre is tough considering there’s tons of competition out there, and perhaps you’re unsure where to even begin.

But here’s the thing—by the time you’re done reading this guide, you’ll have clear steps to find publishers and agents who actually want your historical fiction, tackle common market challenges head-on, and strategically position your story for success.

Let’s jump straight into it and start making this market work for you!

Step 1: Understand the Current Historical Fiction Market Trends

First things first, let’s talk about why knowing the recent trends in historical fiction actually matters. Sales of fiction books, including historical fiction, make up about 20–30% of the global trade publishing revenue, meaning there’s a huge market and lots of readers interested in exploring the past through exciting stories. But historical fiction itself is changing lately, with readers gravitating toward two main areas: hidden history and contemporary spins on historic events. In other words, they’re looking for fresh, surprising angles about history instead of just another well-known story.

One example is the popularity of novels like “The Four Winds” by Kristin Hannah or “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett, both fictional yet grounded in real historical contexts but with unique characters and perspectives we haven’t necessarily heard before. If you’re considering this genre, dig deeper into what hasn’t been told or how to twist familiar events into something original.

Another real trend is the shift toward digital and audio formats. In fact, audiobooks have enjoyed double-digit growth consistently over recent years. People love listening to stories set in a different era while commuting or running errands. So consider whether your writing style suits itself well to audiobook formats and try breaking chapters into shorter sections to keep listeners engaged on-the-go.

If you’re just starting out, analyzing what’s currently doing well is key. Explore bestseller lists on platforms like Amazon or Bookshop.org, but also browse real-world bookstore shelves or libraries to get inspiration. Pay close attention to what’s selling consistently and, even better, ask librarians or bookstore staff what’s frequently requested by readers but harder to find.

Step 2: Identify Publishers Seeking Historical Fiction Manuscripts

Now you know what’s hot in historical fiction, the next obvious step is finding publishers who actually want your manuscript. Not every publisher accepts historical fiction, especially niche or specialty subgenres like historical mysteries, romance, or military history novels. So focusing your submissions where they’ll have the best chance is crucial.

Begin by observing imprints specifically known for historical fiction. Publishers like HarperCollins’ historical-focused imprints and Penguin Random House’s historical divisions are a great start. Indie presses like Sourcebooks Landmark or Kensington are also often open to historical fiction writers, particularly debut and mid-list authors.

A reliable way to discover such publishers is using industry tools. Platforms like Publishers Marketplace or Duotrope can streamline this search and help you find accurate submission guidelines, contact details, and the history of past publications. Don’t waste your time sending queries or manuscripts to places that never touch your genre—it’s like trying to sell ice cream on a snowy day.

Another useful step: keep track of who’s shopping deals. Subscribe to publishing newsletters like Publishers Weekly or BookBub to see who recently signed historical fiction authors, as this usually suggests they’re actively acquiring manuscripts like yours. Also check their websites thoroughly to review submission guidelines and see what particular era, topics, or subgenres the publisher likes.

Step 3: Target Literary Agents Interested in Historical Fiction Topics

A publisher-significant step is connecting with a literary agent. Agents who handle historical fiction specifically are basically your best allies in getting your book published—they know editors, publishers, and know how to pitch your story most effectively.

Start with trusted databases like QueryTracker or Manuscript Wish List to find agents actively looking for historical fiction. Ideally, filter your search by agents who are recently acquiring historical novels similar in style or theme to yours. Read agents’ individual wish lists and submission guidelines carefully, and follow them precisely.

Before submitting, ensure your manuscript is absolutely polished and professional-looking. Presenting your work professionally adds credit to your query. Using writing software or reliable proofreading tools can help you finalize your manuscript fully, making it ready for submission without embarrassing mistakes. If you’re unsure about formatting or presentation details, check out guides on what a professional manuscript looks like first.

One particular tip worth mentioning—remember agents are humans, too. Mention why you chose to approach them specifically—maybe you liked an interview they gave, discovered their favorite historical novels mentioned online, or appreciate their expertise in your particular subgenre. Personalize your query letter without sounding forced or overly-flattering; make it natural, respectful, and clearly show you’ve done your homework.

Step 4: Evaluate Self-Publishing Platforms for Historical Fiction Authors

If you’re not having luck landing a traditional deal, don’t worry—plenty of historical fiction authors find success by self-publishing.
But not all platforms are created equal, so let’s quickly sort out your best options.

Amazon KDP is probably the big player you’ve already heard about, especially since it holds a massive chunk of today’s e-book market—you know, those digital sales growing annually and reached over $90 million back in August 2022.
KDP is a solid choice because of its huge audience and easy-to-use tools.
Just remember, with great power (and audience) comes tough competition—so you’ll need a standout book cover, a professionally edited manuscript, and a killer description.

Another smart alternative is IngramSpark, especially useful if you dream of seeing your novel in physical bookstores.
Bookstores order primarily through distributors, and IngramSpark connects you directly with them.
Just a heads-up: Ingram does charge setup fees, unlike KDP, and requires your manuscript and cover to be meticulously formatted beforehand.

Don’t overlook e-book specialists like Draft2Digital or aggregators like Smashwords (now merged together), because they’ll get your historical saga onto multiple platforms at once—Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, and more.
Their automated formatting is handy if you’re not tech-savvy, though the dashboard might not always offer the depth of analytics you’d want.

Whichever platform or combination you choose, give yourself the best chance by focusing on genre consistency, professional formatting, and excellent metadata—that means categories, keywords, and a stellar blurb. Here’s an insightful guide on how to increase book sales on Amazon without feeling overwhelmed.

Step 5: Choose Popular Historical Fiction Subgenres and Niches to Write In

Here’s a little secret of historical fiction: Not all periods or subgenres sell equally.
Some niches have dedicated, passionate readers actively searching for that next great read.

A current hot favorite among readers is historical mysteries—combining crime-solving narratives with period dramas is winning over lots of fans (think about novels like “The Alienist” by Caleb Carr).
Another growing area is historical romance—if you can create characters readers truly connect with, historical romance could be your sweet spot.
Then there’s military historical fiction, especially around WWI and WWII, where a dedicated reader base eagerly awaits new takes on these eras.

Alternatively, explore areas people haven’t overdone yet—hidden historical fiction is grabbing attention right now.
Readers love it when you find overlooked events or tell stories from angles less frequently represented.
Also, consider contemporary retellings of significant events that resonate with today’s readers, as done effectively by authors like Taylor Jenkins Reid (“Daisy Jones & The Six”).

But don’t choose a niche solely based on popularity.
It helps if you’re passionate about the era or subject matter—you’ll inevitably research more effectively and write more engaging stories.
Read widely within your chosen niche, but also look for clever ways to blend or twist several styles together to set your book apart—like mixing thriller elements into historical romance plots.

Stay aware of over-saturated timeframes like Tudor England and Victorian England, unless you’re offering a truly fresh angle, because you’ll face a massive competition there.
If you’re stuck brainstorming ideas, here are plenty of fresh historical fiction writing prompts to get your creative gears turning.

Step 6: Create Effective Marketing Campaigns for Historical Fiction Books

Success in historical fiction isn’t just about writing a fantastic book—you’ve also gotta help the right people discover it.
First off, define clearly who your ideal readers are.
Is it older history fans, romance lovers, young adults looking for accessible narratives, or niche-specific groups interested in certain eras?

Email marketing remains one of your most reliable tools—a list of engaged readers eager for your style can really impact sales.
Offer teasers, share fun historical tidbits related to your book, or even exclusive short stories in your newsletters.
Make sure your emails sound conversational, informal, and friendly, not sales-y.

Social media can help, of course, but don’t spread yourself thin everywhere—pick platforms wisely.
TikTok (#BookTok) can skyrocket book awareness if your target readers tend toward younger demographics.
Instagram offers you visual storytelling opportunities—share behind-the-scenes historical research adventures, character aesthetics boards, or reader reviews.

Book bloggers and influencers within your subgenre can amplify your reach significantly, but personalize your outreach emails rather than sending mass requests—show them you’ve read their reviews.
Also, consider limited Facebook or Amazon ads targeting readers specifically interested in historical fiction, ensuring your marketing budget goes further.

Another often-overlooked trick—create groups or discussions around historical eras your book covers.
Join history forums, Reddit communities, or Facebook groups where members genuinely appreciate your niche, but avoid spammy promotions; authentic conversations lead naturally to interest in your writing.

Step 7: Overcome Historical Fiction Market Challenges and Genre Competition

Historical fiction has stiff competition—everyone and their aunt seems to have penned some historical tale these days.
So—how do you actually stand out?

First, original, well-researched content is your strongest advantage.
Readers notice authenticity; if historical details feel half-hearted or sloppy, you lose trust fast.
Secondly, your unique voice matters hugely—never underestimate it.
Avoid falling back on clichés, overly predictable romance setups, or flat characters; give readers something fresh or unexpected instead.

Another market challenge often faced by writers is that historical fiction can seem intimidating or boring unless you market it properly.
Think of ways to connect deeply with modern audiences—explore universal themes like friendship, heartbreak, or personal ambition—but do it against an exciting historical backdrop.

Also, make your novel accessible with clear cover designs hinting historical without looking overly stuffy.
Don’t scare potential readers away with overly complex historical terminology in your blurbs or marketing materials.

Finally, be consistent and persistent; most historical fiction successes don’t happen overnight.
You might want to check out a few stories of authors who learned how to get a book published without an agent after repeatedly hitting walls—and found their way around obstacles by self-publishing or niche publishing.

Step 8: Use Essential Historical Research Resources and Networking Opportunities

No historical fiction succeeds without solid research backing it up—trust me, readers love spotting inaccuracies and they’re very vocal about it.
Online digital libraries such as JSTOR, Google Scholar, or Project Gutenberg offer extensive resources full of credible, detailed research.

Historical archives and museums often provide valuable primary sources online, plus curators or archivists may even answer specific inquiries from authors (bonus!).
Local libraries and historical societies often stock regional-specific resources that websites might not have.

Networking should never be underestimated either.
Historical societies, writer forums, author events, and genre-specific groups, both digital and offline, connect you with peers who understand your unique challenges and opportunities.
Attending events like the Historical Novel Society Conference can offer inspiration, practical advice, and friendship with fellow authors.

Lastly, remember there’s no replacement for hitting the books (the nonfiction kind)—reading extensively around your chosen topic will help your storytelling sound genuinely knowledgeable.

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