Over the last several months, we've mentioned a lot of works of historical fiction, but we've never really talked about historical fiction much at all: it's purpose, some of our favorite works, and does it include room for speculative fiction, too. So, now we're going to! Listen in as we discuss:

• The difference between period fiction and historical fiction (and if we're just splitting hairs on this)
• If alternative history works (e.g. "What if JFK was never assassinated?") count as historical fiction
• Buzz Aldrin sucker punching people
• What are a few good recommendations for those looking to start reading historical fiction
• Dave's accusation that someone might have said a word that we would not dare say on a family-friendly show like this one

Thanks to Gospel-Centered Discipleship for sponsoring this episode. If you're an aspiring writer who wants to learn from the likes of Jen Wilkin, Hannah Anderson, Jared Wilson, and our own Barnabas Piper, sign up to take part in their new writers cohort at tailored.coach/gcdwriters.

And, of course, thanks to our friends at Lagares Coffee Roaster for partnering with us to make the Table of (mal)Contents blend. Order all the bags you can handle today.

A few of the books we mention on this episode:

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

11/22/63 by Stephen King

The Man In The High Castle by Philip K. Dick

The Frozen Hours by Jeff Shaara

The Conqueror series by Conn Iggulden

The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead 

The Winds of War by Herman Wouk

Alaska by James Michener

Byzantium by Stephen R. Lawhead

Master and Commander by Patrick O'Brian

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