How to Write a Great Historical Novel
By amy wilson
editor and writing teacher.
The historical novel has long been popular. Library circulation figures show that genre historical fiction, as well as historical novels that cross genres such as historical mysteries and romances, are steady reads for many demographics.
There is a market for a historical novel, and authors from underrepresented groups are gaining more opportunities to tell their own stories and write about historical characters who share their identities. The historical novel for indie writers is also becoming increasingly popular. If you have a passion for history and an eye for detail, writing a historical novel might be the right choice for you
What is a Historical Novel?
When writing a historical novel, authors must develop techniques to create stories set in a different time period. This includes researching the period, creating believable characters, creating authentic settings, and avoiding seeing the past through the lens of the present (presentism). Freewriting can help authors brainstorm ideas, and they should find an interesting way into a time period. They should also research the period thoroughly, build a world, avoid getting bogged down in dialogue, and add fictional characters who are true to your chosen time period but also play a role in moving the action forward.
Authors should also remember to save in-depth dialogue writing for the key interactions that they want to emphasize the most, and to be able to quickly tell a potential reader precisely what their story is about. Avoid sitting around and talking about the time period—this is not realistic. Characters who are living a historical period wouldn’t look at it through any eyes other than theirs. Their only reference point is their past, rather than our contemporary future.
To make a historical novel interesting, authors should consider using a historical time period as a backdrop and placing fictional characters and events within that world. Or, they can choose historical events and create fictional characters who experienced it and whose lives were affected by it in some meaningful way. The time period in a historical novel needs to be necessary to the story. Otherwise, why use the time period setting in the first place? If your story can take place in any time period, you need to examine whether you’ve truly written a compelling historical novel.
A Historical Novel Follows the Same Fiction Rules
When writing a good historical fiction novel, authors should keep in mind that the goals of a historical novel are the same as the goals of any novel: to write a story that entertains readers. They should not let historical novel research get in the way of their story, but instead use it to support the construction of story elements of character, setting, and plot. A historical novel should still be a compelling read, even though the requirements are more specific to portray the historical period in a realistic and well-researched way. Once you master the art form of the historical novel, you will encounter many readers who are hungry for what you bring to the table.
unlock your writing potential
As an agented writer and highly experienced editor, Amy Wilson can quickly identify strengths and opportunities for growth in your plot and prose, help you build a compelling submission package, and provide the encouragement you need to reach your writing goals. Take your writing to the next level with Amy’s professional eye.
