Historical fiction is a literary genre wherein the plot evolves in a time and place somewhere in the past with a crucial component of historical fiction being that it explores the prejudices, prevailing social conditions and trends of the period depicted. It’s a broad term for a genre that has evolved to include many subgenres with examples including alternate history, historical fantasy to name but two. Of course, all genres attract their share of critics and the Historical Fiction genre is no different. From online reader reviews to literary commentators Historical Fiction novels are often criticized for their lack of authenticity because of inaccuracies in the events recounted. Because of this definitions differ as to what constitutes a ‘genuine’ historical novel and when the term ’historical novel’ might properly be used. More importantly it begs the question as to What Makes Bestselling Historical Fiction Novels.
It’s not a debate with an easy answer but what we can say for sure is that Historical Fiction has rich and diverse roots, especially in the UK and the USA. With notable luminaries including American James Fenimore Cooper, English author Georgette Heyer and Scottish novelist and poet Naomi Mitchison though the genre has since significantly evolved. Interest has waxed and waned over the years but works like Ken Follett‘s Pillars of the Earth, Neal Stephenson‘s Baroque Cycle and Pat Barker‘s Regeneration Trilogy have laid the foundations for an enthusiastic readership which continues to grow. Indeed, there are few fans of the genre who haven’t read The Other Boleyn Girl, by British historian and author Philippa Gregory, Water for Elephants by Canadian-American writer Sara Gruen, Wolf Hall by English writer Hilary Mantel or Beloved by the iconic American writer Toni Morrison. This brings us back to the debate as to what constitutes a ‘genuine’ historical novel and what all the aforementioned authors have in common is exceptional attention to detail. They bring the periods about which they write to life and in doing so add an all-prevailing sense of authenticity to their works.
The key is robust research. It’s time-consuming but can never be overrated. Google ‘Writing Historical Fiction’ and there is plenty of advice to be had but research by necessity should always be at the top of an aspiring or established Historical Fiction authors list.
A taut, exciting read that throws surprises at the reader on a regular basis Assignment Potsdam; Countdown To War proves a powerful debut for Charlie FitzGerald’s Colonel McDesmond Series and a must-read for fans of Military and Historical Fiction Espionage Thrillers.
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Brian. H. Butler’s theological experience is evident in this organic examination of the existence of God and the Bible as God’s word. With incredible detail, well-versed and researched, he guides his reader in a thorough examination, affording his reader respect by backing his findings with evidence and scriptural references.
Near Death Experience’s or NDEs as they are more commonly called are not a new phenomenon; they’ve been reported throughout history and yet few subjects create so much division.
Complete with engaging and high-quality professional illustrations, this beautiful book invites children to use their imaginations, explore the world around them, and gain a better understanding of themselves and others.
Divided into the topics of ‘Pandemic’, ‘Injustice’, ‘Courage’, ‘Love and ‘Hope’ Schneider does each one justice in an explorative journey into each. The variety ensures there is something to read for each mood and meditation.
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