#8: Creating compelling characters in historical fiction
Episode 8 Creating compelling characters in historical fiction, with Katherine Clements 9 February, 2024 Join bestselling novelist and writing coach Katherine Clements as she discusses the deep, human connection between reader and characters that distinguishes...
Making research pay
Many of us find that research is the best part of writing. We spend years hunting down every conceivable detail. Knowing how New York might have smelt on 4th July 1776, the taste of a roasted dormouse in Pompeii’s heyday, whether Cardinal Langton, author of the Magna...
Why you should consider submitting to indie presses (with our recommendations)
When it comes to getting a finished manuscript out into the world, there are more avenues available than ever before. Self-publishing is no longer the domain of the downtrodden and the desperate, while traditional publishers are constantly on the hunt for fresh new...
Bonus episode: how to succeed in historical fiction
Bonus episode How to succeed in historical fiction 24 January, 2024 We’re excited to bring you this special bonus episode. Two successful authors, traditionally published Gill Paul and independently published David Penny, explore what success means to them and...
#7: Dark pages: writing epics, myths and legends
Episode 7 Dark pages: writing epics, myths, and legends, with Giles Kristian 24 January, 2024 For the first episode of season two, returning hosts Theo and Julia are joined by bestselling author of Lancelot, Camelot and the Raven and Sigurd trilogies, Giles Kristian....
Bringing historical festivities back to life
Celebrations, feasts and traditions have always been part of what makes us human. They bound our ancestors to their ancestors and can do the same for characters in historical fiction. Some feasts are moveable; all can be moving, both to characters and to readers. Some...
In tune with the past: using music to set the tone for your historical fiction
You’ve researched, you’ve developed your characters and plot, and you are ready to write. Perhaps you’ve already begun writing, but something is not working. It’s difficult to pinpoint, but the feeling of your story doesn’t seem authentic. How can you capture what it...
How to write convincing male characters in historical fiction
Even taking into account titans like Bernard Cornwell, the vast majority of historical fiction authors are women. As are their readers. Now, you should be incredibly suspicious of anyone who claims to be an expert in masculinity. Chances are, they are trying to sell...
Dictation for historical fiction authors: speed up the research process (and your first draft)
You just might have an invaluable writing tool in your pocket or sitting on your desk right now. A smartphone. It’s a modern gadget with a key function that can have a fantastic impact on your life as a historical fiction author. It has on mine. From note-taking to...