A successful historical novel transports the reader

to a reconstructed time period

with characters that act and speak with authenticity.

To write great historical fiction, start by becoming a fan of the genre. Reading with a discerning and appreciate eye will improve your own skills. Take note of approach and style, with a goal of finding inspiration for your own voice, style, and story. The prospect of writing historical fiction can be incredibly daunting. Particularly if one is starting with little background knowledge in that area. 

1. Do your research.

Research is the most vital step in recreating any historical setting. Start taking notes. Historical fiction typically requires far more research and attention to chronology. World events matter. If one of the world wars or a pandemic breaks out during the novel, it should have a passing impact on the characters. Consider the lack of cures for diseases, the unfamiliar fashions, beliefs, or philosophies. 

2. Immerse yourself in the environment.

Keep in mind currency, landmarks and locations that appear in your novel. Immerse yourself with books and films set as close to your setting. Some historical settings have long been ignored or misrepresented. Examples of historical fiction may be sparse. You will have to act as a historian, as you wade through colonialism and historical revisionism. Make sure you find the truth. 

3. Learn to look past literary bias and assumptions.

Often existing historical depictions of your time period are rife with inaccuracies. History is a complicated and nuanced subject. Look between the lines to uncover fascinating insights into the lives of people of different classes, races, genders, sexualities, and religions. Find what is hidden behind our prevailing notion of what constitutes ‘history’. 

4. Language in historical fiction 

Your reader needs to feel transported to the past and the language you use is how they move through time into your chosen era. Dialect helps the story seem realistic . If the author writes the story in a dialect, it is much easier to read and understand. Victorians did speak English, albeit in quite a different manner than we do today. A novel set around the 12th century should not be written in contemporary prose. However some concessions needed to be made. Ancient languages are not easily understood. 

5. People are humans regardless of the century

People have always sung, painted, and carved toys for children. And come together as families in communities. Laughs and jeers – during Oliver Cromwell’s time men would laugh at different things than men of the early twentieth century.

Think about your character’s:
  • height and weight
  • education 
  • sexuality
  • family
  • ambition 
  • gait 
  • philosophy and beliefs  

Once you’ve found your story, make certain the writing is authentic. It is not necessary to become an academic expert about your historical period. Read  voraciously, take notes, and conduct interviews. Pepper your narrative with specifics about day-to-day life. Write dialogue that reflects the times and rings true. Paying attention to the fine points will make your historical fiction smile. Research, take your time, and seek advice and help when needed. 

Unleash the novel inside you

with compelling characters,

intricate worlds,

and fine-tuned prose.

 

“Linda has published twenty books. She blogs about the publishing world, posts useful tips on the challenges a writer faces, including marketing and promoting your work, how to build your online platform, how to get reviews and how to self-publish. She has mentored many authors and edited their work.” 

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