writing craft – Dena Weigel

What Does It Take to Write Great Historical Fiction?

One of my favorite genres is historical fiction. It acts as a time portal that can lift you up and transfer you years into the past. With vivid details and sometimes language of the time, you get to experience a world that was well-known to our ancestors but is only a blurred image in our minds today.

A large, open book with miniature knights on horseback emerging from its pages, surrounded by greenery, set against a backdrop of bookshelves.

I recently discussed a few tips to writing historical fiction in a post I wrote for Chanticleer Book Reviews. If you are interested in writing historical fiction, or just want to learn more about how your favorite authors can conjur up the past, I invite you to read my article; “Three Rules for Writing Historical Fiction That Will Transport Readers Back in Time.”

Effective Strategies for Book Research

To efficiently research for a book, define a focused topic, create a plan, gather diverse sources, evaluate their credibility, organize findings, and begin writing early while integrating research seamlessly.

To streamline research for a book, begin with a focused topic, create a research plan, and utilize various information sources like books, articles, interviews, and online resources. Organize your findings systematically, evaluate sources critically, and consider using tools like RSS feeds or note-taking apps to manage information efficiently.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

1. Define Your Topic and Scope:

Identify a specific and manageable topic: This will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed and ensure focused research.
Create an outline or research plan: This will help you stay organized and track your progress.
Consider your target audience: Tailor your research and writing style to resonate with your intended readers.

2. Gather Information:

Start with a preliminary search:Get a general overview of your topic and identify potential areas for deeper investigation, according to a LinkedIn article.
Utilize diverse resources:
- Books: Use books for in-depth coverage, check tables of contents and indexes for relevant sections, and explore bibliographies for further leads, according to Elmira College.
- Journal articles: Access scholarly articles through databases and online platforms.
- Online resources: Leverage websites, online archives, and digital libraries.
- Interviews: Conduct interviews with experts or individuals with relevant experience, says Writer’s Digest.
- RSS feeds: Subscribe to relevant RSS feeds for updates on new research and publications, according to a Reddit thread.
Evaluate sources:Use the CARS checklist (Credibility, Accuracy, Reasonableness, Support) to assess the reliability of your sources.

3. Organize and Analyze

Use a note-taking system:Employ note-taking apps (like Milanote) or dedicated software to organize your findings.
Categorize information:Organize notes by topic, source, or other relevant criteria.
Summarize and synthesize:Instead of simply compiling quotes, try to synthesize information from multiple sources and identify key themes and arguments.
Connect the dots:Look for patterns, relationships, and contradictions in the information you’ve gathered.

4. Write and Refine:

Start writing early: Don’t wait until all research is complete; begin writing while you’re still gathering information.
Integrate research into your narrative: Seamlessly incorporate your findings into the text, rather than presenting them as separate chunks of information.
Cite your sources properly: Give credit where credit is due to avoid plagiarism.
Proofread carefully: Ensure accuracy, clarity, and coherence in your writing.

By following these steps, you can streamline your research process and create a well-researched and engaging book.

Click here to streamline your research further with these tips from Chanticleer Book Reviews!

The Power of Small Details in Character Development

Subtle character hints make a big impact on shaping your characters.

Have you ever met a character in a book or movie who felt real before they even said a word?

Maybe it was the way they adjusted their sleeves when nervous, or how they always paused a beat too long before answering a question. These small, almost invisible cues are what give characters depth—and they’re often more powerful than flashy backstories or dramatic dialogue.

They are the hints that provide readers with the essence of who that character is. Picture a character at the grocery store checkout who writes a check for sixty-seven cents when buying half and half. We know he’s probably broke, doesn’t seem in control of their life, and he doesn’t really care.

I recently wrote about subtle character hints for work about how using subtle character hints can breathe life into your creations and make them feel authentic, layered, and alive on the page. I’ve also highlighted different ways you can add new, unique subtle character hints into your story.

Click here to read the article

I hope you find it valuable!