Every time I read historical fiction I am stunned by the amount of detail that goes into every page. Historical fiction authors, on top of developing a plot and writing a novel, spend a lot of time conducting research and confirming facts. It seems like a daunting task to me and I’ve always wanted to hear about the process from the perspective of a historical fiction author. Thankfully I had the chance when local author Jennie Marsland presented at the Keshen Goodman Library on Tuesday evening.
During her presentation Marsland talked about her writing process and shared her experiences. From Marlsand I discovered that that conducting research for historical fiction is indeed a complex process, however if you have the passion and the organizational skills the process will not be so daunting. In fact it can actually be fun!
Marsland also had the chance to read from her new historical-romance novel Shattered (M) – a love story set in 1917, on the cusp of the Halifax Explosion. Shattered is a novel that impressed me with its historical detail and it has the added local history appeal. It is a great read for anyone who enjoys locally set books or for anyone who enjoys a good-old fashioned love story.
For those looking for books similar to Shattered you may be interested in:
Black Snow: a story of love and destruction (M)
by Jon Tattrie
Black Snow is another love story set during the Halifax Explosion and should appeal to those who like the Halifax Explosion aspect of Shattered.
by Ami McKay
For those who enjoyed the local setting of Shattered. The Birth House takes place in early twentieth century rural Nova Scotia.
by Diana Gabaldon
Outlander will appeal to readers looking to indulge their romantic side. With a time-travel twist Gabaldon successfully takes on both the post-WWII era and 1743 Scotland.
Source: http://www.thereader.ca/2012/01/shattered-historical-fiction-by-jennie.html
