How to Research when Writing Historical Fiction
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...