About Jillian
Kansas author Jillian holds a master’s degree in public history from Wichita State University and a bachelor’s degree in communication and history from McPherson College. Her research on little-known historical events led her to discover the true story behind her first novel, The Rhino Keeper.
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Jillian is a regular contributor to Writer Unboxed and leads the Manuscript Matchup beta reader program through History Through Fiction.
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You can find Jillian gardening, browsing the closest antique mall, or reading every label at a museum. She'll most likely be wearing vintage dresses, except when she's at the zoo.
Jillian owns a bridal store and has worked in bridal since 2007. She lives in Wichita, Kansas, with her husband, child, and pets.
Jillian’s second novel is written and she's working on a third. She will always write animal stories.
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Agents: Jillian is open to representation.
Praise for
The Rhino Keeper
Paste Magazine’s “The Most Anticipated Historical Fiction Books of Fall 2024”
​“Why We’re Excited: Based on the true story of a Dutch sea captain who traveled with an Indian rhinoceros called Clara across 18th-century Europe (during a time when almost no living European would have ever seen one before), this particular historical fiction release has strong “you’re going to read it in book club” vibes.​​“
“They must have been bonded. And so begins the harrowing, heart-wrenching tale of a man and his beloved rhinoceros, Clara. Inspired by real-life events, The Rhino Keeper by debut novelist Jillian Forsberg illuminates the extraordinary connection between humans and animals. Spanning two centuries, The Rhino Keeper is both a historical mystery and a tale of old-world adventure, reminding us that even the wishes we take to our grave may someday come true after all.”
~Sarah Penner, NYT Bestselling Author of The Lost Apothecary and The London Séance Society
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"Rich with adventure, historical detail, and love of all kinds, THE RHINO KEEPER is an enchanting true story. Jillian Forsberg brings Clara the rhinoceros and the humans who cared for her to vivid life, deftly interlacing the dual timelines to create a poignant tale that spans both continents and centuries. Just as the 18th century Europeans who flocked to meet Clara could not help but be changed by knowing her, readers of Forsberg's accomplished debut will find their hearts expanded with each page they turn."
~Molly Greeley, author of MARVELOUS
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“Jillian Forsberg has crafted a masterful tale of mystery, love, and the magic of discovery. The Rhino Keeper explores the deep relationships that are possible between humans and the animals who choose them. Forsberg takes a compassionate look at the history of mid-18th century Europe’s only living rhinoceros and the people who loved and protected her, while simultaneously weaving in a modern-day story of how greed can infiltrate everything from wildlife conservation to archaeology. She adeptly intertwines an 18th century adventure that spans two continents into a 21st century story of a woman’s self-discovery—and does it so seamlessly that the story flows without feeling interrupted. And how can anyone resist a tale about a rhinoceros named Clara and the salty seaman who loves her?”
~Elizabeth R. Andersen, author of The Alewives
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"The Rhino Keeper will fascinate, enchant, and steal your heart as you follow Clara's wondrous journey from the tropics of India to the sparkling courts of Europe alongside her devoted human companions. Poignant and tender, this impeccably researched novel marks Forsberg as a writer to watch. A captivating debut you'll never forget."
~Paulette Kennedy, bestselling author of The Witch of Tin Mountain
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"An absorbing delight from start to finish, The Rhino Keeper deftly weaves a very modern tale of a young historian who makes a life-changing discovery with the true story of an eighteenth-century Dutch sea captain who toured Europe with a fully-grown female Indian rhinoceros called Clara. Readers will be pulling for the central characters, past and present, as we follow in Clara’s outsize footsteps to discover her history and final fate. Jillian Forsberg is deeply engaged in this remarkable story and, after reading The Rhino Keeper, you will be, too.”
~Glynis Ridley, author of Clara’s Grand Tour. Travels with a Rhinoceros in Eighteenth-Century Europe
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“A charming page turner perfect for animal and history lovers alike.”
~Diana Giovinazzo, author of Antoinette’s Sister
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"​​Filled with the thrill of discovery and resonant with the special bond between man and animal, The Rhino Keeper is an unusual delight that will enrapture fans of historical fiction. Jillian Forsberg makes a strong debut with this unforgettable tale!"
~Olivia Hawker, bestselling author of One for the Blackbird, One for the Crow
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