The Truth About Historical Fiction Research: Mistakes Are Inevitable

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

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

What is the One Thing a Writing Book Can’t Teach You?

How-To Writing Books Can Be Inspirational Since Painting the Past: A Guide for Writing Historical Fiction was released I’ve been thinking a lot about writing books. I’ve read many of them, believe me, especially when I was a fresh-faced writer dutifully taking my English, screenwriting, and creative writing courses as an undergrad. I combed through … Continue reading What is the One Thing a Writing Book Can’t Teach You?

It’s Here: A Guide for Writing Historical Fiction

I’m so happy that I can finally share my first nonfiction book—Painting the Past: A Guide for Writing Historical Fiction—with everyone. Already, on its first day of release, Painting the Past has been named the #1 New Release in Authorship. Amazing. Thank you to everyone who helped to make this happen. I came up with … Continue reading It’s Here: A Guide for Writing Historical Fiction