Making Connections at the HNSNA Conference

Guest Post by Tanya Williams –

What happens at an HNS conference doesn’t always stay at an HNS conference, but in this case, that’s a good thing.

When I attended my first conference in 2019, I felt as though I had found “my people.” Authors I had long admired, new friends whom I share a love of history with, and a few memorable historical figures who delighted the crowds as they moved through the halls. Three days passed in a whirl of laughter, connection, and knowledge.

I tucked those memories into my luggage and eagerly looked forward to the next HNS Conference. With the pandemic canceling the usual gathering ritual that, for many, filled us up and carried us through writing and more during the time between conferences, the virtual conference was not only a balm to our weary souls but a reminder that as writers and creators, we are wired to connect with one another.

Enter the HNS After Party Zoom Group. Immediately following the virtual HNS conference, a small group of us who had met at a workshop or via the EventMobi app decided to try meeting up regularly to stay in touch. And meet, we did! Every month for the past several years we join together and chat about all things historical and bookish.

Whether we are taking notes from an industry expert or supporting one another as books launch, agents are acquired, and hidden bits of research are deftly uncovered, we are there for one another. Despite not having met in person, we are fierce allies in offering support and friendship. As life throws us curve balls, our HNS After Party meet-ups are a safe place to land. And when it’s time to celebrate, we are one another’s loudest cheering section. I personally couldn’t imagine my life or my writing career without each and every one of my After Party friends, and it is all because we decided to keep the HNS Conference party going. In 2025, I am looking forward to meeting some of my dearest friends in person in Las Vegas.