Authors of historical fiction get their inspiration from many sources. Sometimes it comes from a fascination with certain famous individuals (you will find plenty of books about various kings and queens and famous artists in our catalog) or specific events (wars in particular seem fertile ground for inspiration.) Sometimes the… Read More »My inspiration for Deadly Proof by M. Louisa locke
In the year 1597, Sir Frances Drake did not discover San Francisco Bay. He did find Drake’s Bay, a rather small cove near Point Reyes. He landed his ship for overhaul and spent more than a month exploring the neighborhood. The natives were friendly, since they yet failed to realize… Read More »How Old is San Francisco Bay? (With Addendum) by Steve Bartholomew
The Trojan War threatens Troy’s allies and the Greek supply raids spread. A young healing priestess, designated as future queen, must defend her city against both divine anger and invading Greeks. She finds strength in visions of a handsome warrior god. Will that be enough when the half-immortal Achilles attacks?… Read More »Giving Briseis her Voice by Judith Starkston
Lighthouses have been manned since ancient times and most of us feel it must be a very lonely occupation. And indeed it can be and there are terrible tales of lighthouse keepers going mad. The 19th century in particular seemed to have many tales of madness, murder and suicide on… Read More »Are Lonely Lighthouses for Lonely Men? by Loretta Proctor
Everywhere in medieval life, you read about ‘rushes’ on the floor. However, I question the image of women in long gowns walking around on loose rushes, whether or not they were sprinkled with herbs. Wouldn’t the rushes catch in the dress? This page has this to say, and started off… Read More »Rushes on the Floor by Sarah Woodbury