The History Quill Podcast: Writing and Publishing Historical Fiction

All Episodes (11)

From new to old

From new to old From old to new

1. 

   1. How to use archives to enhance your historical fiction, with Steve Dacus

   Research is so important to piecing together the material world of your novel. Not only are archives an important tool in helping you avoid anachronisms that can be jarring for readers, but good archival research can have a huge positive impact, helping you access primary details that make your setting and characters come alive. In this episode, Julia and Theo speak with Steve Dacus, founder of The Research Arsenal, which offers keyword searchable access to thousands of American Civil War docume

   Apr 24,2024 55:10
2. 

   2. Writing dual timelines and co-writing historical fiction, with Hazel Gaynor

   Hazel Gaynor, bestselling author on both sides of the Atlantic, joins Theo and Julia to talk about the processes and priorities for writers of dual-timelines. She explains how weaving back and forth between characters and eras can create mystery and allow the author to provide both light and shade in order to ensure variety in tone and mood.  Having written novels set both close to home and far afield, Hazel is also eager to talk about how to find the right story for you. She explains how she fi

   Mar 27,2024 53:30
3. 

   3. Creating compelling characters in historical fiction, with Katherine Clements

   Join bestselling novelist and writing coach Katherine Clements as she discusses the deep, human connection between reader and characters that distinguishes historical fiction from history. This episode also takes in topics including how to remain teachable as a writer, following your gut, and what a meaningful and bold writing career looks like. Those wanting more detail on this crucial topic or to learn directly from Katherine in an interactive setting can also join her upcoming masterclass of

   Feb 09,2024 54:40
4. 

   4. Dark pages : writing epics, myths and legends with Giles Kristian

   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.  Although best known for writing bloodthirsty but heartfelt, lyrical tales set in the Dark Ages, the former pop star is a renaissance man. His many talents have seen him collaborate with Wilbur Smith, release the captivating contemporary thriller Where Blood Runs Cold, and put the expertise forged while working on novels int

   Jan 24,2024 58:36
5. 

   5. Elevate your writing: the power of critique groups, with Syd Young

   In this episode, hosts Theo and Julia are joined by Syd Young, an author, lawyer, and longstanding participant in The History Quill’s group coaching programme. Syd's debut novel is a biographical contemporary historical fiction piece, centered around Lady Bird Johnson in the aftermath of the Kennedy assassination. Together with our hosts, she explores the unique challenges and opportunities of writing about more recent historical figures. During the conversation, Syd discusses how working with a

   Aug 22,2023 53:23
6. 

   6. Writing gothic historical fiction, with Anna Mazzola

   In today’s episode, Theo and Julia are joined by Anna Mazzola, the award-winning and bestselling author known for her captivating gothic historical novels. With a background in law as a human rights and criminal justice solicitor, Anna brings a unique perspective to her storytelling, exploring the impact of crime and injustice in her works. Throughout the conversation, Theo, Julia, and Anna discuss writing across different genres, the importance of confidence in one's own writing, and how to bal

   Jul 26,2023 53:20
7. 

   7. Unearthing forgotten tales, with Piper Huguley

   In this episode, hosts Theo and Julia are joined by author Piper Huguley to explore the power of historical fiction in uncovering hidden narratives, and the art of crafting compelling biographical stories.  Piper's dedication to writing about African American characters shines through as we delve into the lesser-known story of Ann Lowe for her historical fiction work, By Her Own Design. Listeners can expect to gain insights into the challenges and rewards of exploring and resurrecting these narr

   Jun 28,2023 47:11
8. 

   8. Creating a community of readers, with Octavia Randolph

   ​​In today’s episode, hosts Theo and Julia are joined by Octavia Randolph, author of the critically acclaimed Circle of Ceridwen Saga. With eleven books (and counting) set in 9th century England and Scandinavia during the Viking incursions, Octavia's meticulously researched and imaginatively crafted Norse sagas have gained a cult following among readers and listeners worldwide.  During the conversation, Octavia shares insights into the challenges and rewards of building a community of loyal read

   May 31,2023 48:39
9. 

   9. How to find a good literary agent, with Charlotte Colwill

   ​​In this episode, hosts Theo and Julia sit down with Charlotte Colwill, co-founder of the independent literary agency Colwill & Peddle, to discuss how both aspiring and established authors can find the right literary agent for them.  Charlotte brings a wealth of experience to the conversation, having worked in bookselling before transitioning to the world of literary representation, where she currently represents authors of fiction, nonfiction, and children's literature. Listeners can expect to

   Apr 26,2023 46:53
10. 

    10. Historical research and writing WW2 fiction, with Madeline Martin

    For our first ever episode of The History Quill Podcast, our expert hosts (and authors in their own right) Theo Brun and Julia Kelly are joined by New York Times and International bestselling author of WW2 historical fiction and historical romance Madeline Martin. Based in sunny Florida, Madeline is a die-hard history lover with her works spanning medieval castles and Regency ballrooms.In this episode, Madeline shares why she loves writing about the WW2 period, what goes into her historical rese

    Mar 29,2023 41:33
11. 

    11. Welcome to The History Quill Podcast: Writing and Publishing Historical Fiction

    The History Quill Podcast is all about writing and publishing historical fiction. Brought to you by The History Quill and hosted by historical fiction authors Julia Kelly and Theodore Brun, each episode features a special guest sharing their insights and experiences. Some are bestselling historical fiction authors, others are aspiring writers sharing their journey so far, and others are industry insiders and experts. We cover writing craft, research, traditional publishing, self-publishing, book

    Feb 27,2023 01:41