My name is Alen Sambolec, and I'm the author of four novels, three of which have already been published. I write historical and engaged literature, and this time, I want to share a story with you that left its mark on Croatian history, especially in two cities: Varaždin and Zagreb.

I'm working on independently publishing my latest novel, "The Fire," which is inspired by a real event: the great fire that destroyed the city of Varaždin in 1776. This fire wasn't just a local tragedy—it changed the political map of Croatia because Varaždin lost its status as the capital city. That status was then taken over by Zagreb, which retains it to this day.

The novel follows the fate of a boy named Jakov Verček, a boy whose carelessness burned down an entire city.

The novel features 13 interconnected stories that progressively reveal more and more about power, social classes, revenge, compassion, and historical oblivion. The book is based on thorough research but is told through a powerful literary style and psychological realism.

The manuscript is complete and editorially prepared. Now, I need your help for:

• Printing the novel in a softcover edition, or hardcover if we reach the goal
• Proofreading and graphic design for print
• Promotions in libraries, schools, and cultural centers
• A digital campaign and translation of the novel into English (if we reach an additional goal)

This story is more than a novel. It's a cultural document, a monument to the small and the great, the known and the unknown people who bore the consequences of major political decisions. Writing this novel is an act of preserving collective memory for me, but also a matter of justice—because history must not remain the privilege of the powerful.

Your funds will be spent on:

Every contribution, big or small, means that the story of Varaždin and the fire that changed Croatia will not be forgotten.

Thank you for supporting culture, truth, and books that endure.

The name and surname of every donor, with their consent, will be recorded in the acknowledgments section of the book—as proof that you believed in this story when it needed it most.

• A donation of 25 euros secures you a signed copy of the printed novel.
• A donation of 500 euros grants you 10 signed copies of the novel + a 1/4 color page on one inner page of the first edition for your content.
• A donation of 750 euros grants you 10 signed copies of the novel + a 1/2 color page on one inner page of the first edition for your content.
• A donation of 1,000 euros grants you 10 signed copies of the novel + one full color page on one inner page of the first edition for your content.

I thank everyone who recognizes the value of supporting historical novels.