Picture an American storyteller who swapped corporate boardrooms for the battlefields of history—meet Alan Hlad! This internationally bestselling author of historical fiction has a knack for unearthing little-known tales from World War I and II, weaving them into gripping novels that blend heart, courage, and meticulous research. From homing pigeons delivering wartime messages to librarian spies outwitting the enemy, Hlad’s stories spotlight the unsung heroes who shaped history.
With a light touch and a deep respect for the past, Hlad’s books, like the USA Today bestseller The Long Flight Home, have captivated readers worldwide. His journey from executive to novelist is as inspiring as the characters he creates, proving it’s never too late to chase a dream.
The Making of Alan Hlad
Born and raised in Ohio, Alan Hlad’s love for storytelling was sparked by his artistic mother, who filled his childhood with books and music. At eight, he pecked out his first story on an old typewriter, selling it to his uncle for a quarter—a humble start for a future bestseller! Though he pursued a business degree at Bowling Green State University, Hlad never abandoned his passion, sneaking in creative writing classes. His corporate career soared, culminating in a senior vice president role, but the pull of writing was stronger. He founded an executive search firm, gaining the flexibility to write daily, and joined the Akron Writers’ Group, honing his craft.
Alan Hlad’s Unforgettable Stories
Hlad’s historical fiction is a masterclass in blending fact with feeling. His debut, The Long Flight Home (2019), follows Susan, a young woman raising homing pigeons for Britain’s war effort, and Ollie, an American soldier. Inspired by Operation Columba, where pigeons carried coded messages, it’s a tale of love and sacrifice that hooked readers and critics alike. Churchill’s Secret Messenger (2021) dives into the shadowy world of the Special Operations Executive, with typist-turned-spy Rose parachuting into Nazi-occupied France. The novel, rooted in the mysterious Operation Jericho, thrums with espionage and heroism.
A Light Beyond the Trenches (2022) explores a WWI nurse and the origins of guide dogs for blinded soldiers, while The Book Spy (2023) uncovers WWII librarian spies in neutral Lisbon. His latest, Fleeing France (2024), tackles the Dunkirk evacuation. Hlad’s style—vivid, empathetic, and grounded in obscure historical nuggets—brings the past to life, earning praise from authors like Rhys Bowen and Paula McLain.
Why Alan Hlad Matters
Alan Hlad’s novels do more than entertain; they illuminate the resilience of ordinary people in extraordinary times. By spotlighting overlooked corners of history—like pigeon trainers or librarian spies—he honors the unsung. His work resonates with fans of Kate Quinn and Pam Jenoff, offering a fresh lens on wartime courage. A member of the Historical Novel Society and a frequent speaker, Hlad inspires aspiring writers, showing that passion and persistence can rewrite your story.
- Key Works: The Long Flight Home, Churchill’s Secret Messenger, The Book Spy, Fleeing France
- Hometown: Ohio, USA
- Fun Fact: Hlad splits his time between Ohio and Portugal!
Snag The Long Flight Home and dive into Alan Hlad’s thrilling world of historical fiction!