When I wrote my first non-fiction book, Painting the Past: A Guide for Writing Historical Fiction, I was drawing on more than two decades of experience reading, writing, and publishing historical fiction. I enjoyed writing that book because I love sharing the lessons I’ve learned about writing. Painting the Past was published in 2021, five … Continue reading The Truth About Historical Fiction Research: Mistakes Are Inevitable
Historical Fiction
How to Write a Historical Mystery That Brings the Past To Life
Historical fiction is kind of my thing. I was the executive editor of a literary journal of historical fiction for more than 20 years, and most of the novels I've written are historical. Last week I shared some general mystery writing tips. This week, I want to share what I've learned specifically about writing historical … Continue reading How to Write a Historical Mystery That Brings the Past To Life
The Secret Weapon of Historical Novelists: Research That Captivates
I recently read Leigh Bardugo’s The Familiar, a historical fantasy novel. Where Bardugo's Ninth House was a five-star read for me, I'd place The Familiar at four stars. I liked the story, and the main character Luzia grew on me as the story progressed. I didn't love the Hunger Games-type magic show, and though I … Continue reading The Secret Weapon of Historical Novelists: Research That Captivates
Delve into ‘Victory Garden’ and the Suffrage Movement History
One of My Favorite Books As much as I love the Loving Husband Series and the Hembry Castle Chronicles, one of my books that really stands out to me is Victory Garden, a novel of the American women's suffrage movement. I've been so caught up writing about James and Sarah for the past few years … Continue reading Delve into ‘Victory Garden’ and the Suffrage Movement History
Happy Holidays: Christmas Eve at Hembry Castle
I hope everyone has been having a joyous holiday season. I love this time of year with the multi-colored twinkle lights, the Christmas movies, and the holiday spirit everywhere. I'm looking forward to a restful winter holiday, which can't begin soon enough. As I've been enjoying my peppermint hot chocolates and winter blend teas, I … Continue reading Happy Holidays: Christmas Eve at Hembry Castle
Guest Post: Historical Novelist Mary Anna Evans
Mary Anna Evans' Life As a Writer A few years ago, I was speaking to the Institute for Learning in Retirement in my hometown, Hattiesburg, Mississippi. It was a large crowd of people who thought that retirement was great because it gave them more time to learn things. In other words, these were my kind … Continue reading Guest Post: Historical Novelist Mary Anna Evans
What I’m Reading: Witches, 16th Century Life, and Demon Copperhead
As always, summer is a wonderful time for reading. While I haven't had a chance to visit the beach, summer days are perfect for lazing around with a good book and a glass of iced tea. Here's a bit of what I've read this summer. The Practical Magic Series by Alice Hoffman So far, I've … Continue reading What I’m Reading: Witches, 16th Century Life, and Demon Copperhead
Down Salem Way a Semi-Finalist for the Chaucer Award
I'm pleased to say that Down Salem Way, the prequel to the bestselling paranormal historical Loving Husband Series, made it as far as a semi-finalist for the Chaucer Award in Early Historical Fiction Pre-1750s. The Joy of Being Nominated It was a thrill watching Down Salem Way make its way from longlisted to shortlisted to … Continue reading Down Salem Way a Semi-Finalist for the Chaucer Award