Rowena House·Great post, thanks very much. There’s so much that can go wrong with historical fiction, but it’s so satisfying when it feels right. I find the protagonist’s core goal is vital here: so long as it resonates (maybe it’s a love story, or the heroine is fighting to save the family home or setting an injustice to rights) my empathy is aroused even when the societal expectations of the story world feel deeply alien.
- Cindy Anstey·
Absolutely. Hopes, dreams and happiness are timeless.
- Angelica Hagman·
Thank you for sharing your perspective! Writing a historical is tricky business and I admire authors who succeed at making their historicals (mostly) accurate AND approachable. Thanks again!
- Cindy Anstey·
You are most welcome. It is tricky but very satisfying when it works.
- Brenda S Cox·
Thanks for this article, Cindy. One reason I signed up for this conference was that I saw your session listed. I am working on a Regency romance for the first time (actually a Jane Austen variation), after mostly writing children’s nonfiction, and I didn’t even realize there were YA Regencies! I just bought a copy of your first book, since it deals with science in the Regency, another interest I have; I look forward to reading it.
Thanks for your insights on how to stay in period but still connect with modern readers.Another great YA regency is Garth Nix’s NEWT’S EMERALD — really fun!
- Cindy Anstey·
Glad that my post resonated. Good luck with your own Regency!
- Brenda S Cox·
Thanks for the recommendation; I’m checking it out!
Cindy, I’d love to ask you more questions, if you’re willing to connect; I messaged you on your facebook page. I really enjoyed this post. Sometimes I read so much period fiction, I forget that not everyone is familiar with calling their friends Mr. SuchandSuch. It’s good to be reminded that writing for YA comes with a few adjustments.
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