N.L. LaFoille

Do you get that buzzing, sweaty-palm excitement that I do at the mention of FREE BOOKS? That means you're a bibliophile too! Check out the Free and Discounted book sale hosted by the Indie Author group, Support for Indie Authors , from October 28 to October 31. Over 75 free and discounted books in a wide range of genres; you're sure to find something you'll love! *cough* Nautical Miles will be FREE October 28th only! Pick it up and support indie authors!

Research is a critical step in writing. Historical fiction especially, but research when writing any kind of fiction is imperative. Unless you’re writing about exactly what it is that you do all day, some research is necessary. Nothing throws a reader off like the misuse of a term. Anything that distracts from the narrative, or pulls the reader out of your world is something that hurts you as an author. So what is the best way to go about your research? Yes, Google is your friend, but to truly immerse yourself in a time period or region, go a little deeper. While reading other fiction novels set in the same era is recommendable, you don’t want to simply be regurgitating facts or scenes someone else has already written. To be truly unique and credible as a historical fiction writer, find your own take on the period, your own details to incorporate. Watch documentaries, or even T.V. series set in your time period. Downton Abby comes to mind. Go to museums with artifacts...