Margie Lawson
Make your writing soar
There are so many questions when you begin (or get in the middle of!) writing historical fiction. What should I research? When should I research? How much research should I put in the book? Why don’t my characters feel historical? Why does my prose seem to clash with my story?
Writing good historical fiction means navigating the tightrope between historical fact and your fictional story. And there are so many places where it is easy to step off that tightrope and into the abyss of mediocre historical fiction. In this class, we will consider and practice several elements of historical fiction as well as learn by example from authors who have navigated the balance in their work.
If you desire to write historical fiction or are wanting to up your game in creating historical fiction that immerses your reader in another era, this class is for you.
D'Ann Mateer has loved the marriage of history and fiction since she first began reading. Armed with a B.A. in history from Southern Methodist University, she has authored four traditionally published historical novels first under the name Anne Mateer which are now re-releasing under her given name, D’Ann Mateer. She is currently writing for the upcoming Guideposts’ series Secrets From Grandma’s Attic.
D’Ann is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Writers’ League of Texas, and Historical Novel Society. She enjoys helping other writers through freelance editing, judging writing contests, and teaching online classes. D'Ann and her husband, Jeff, enjoy reading, exploring historical sites and historical homes, and spending time with their grown children—and now grandchildren! D'Ann and Jeff live in the Dallas area.
To learn more about D’Ann, visit her website or her social pages:
As a novice to Historical writing, I found this course valuable. Each lesson provided a new challenge and new paths to explore to make the timeline of my story world believable. It was encouraging to share the journey with more experienced Historical writers. With the support and feedback from class and teacher I have gained confidence in my ability to succeed.
I don't normally give reviews, but this deserved a five star rating. Anne is very detailed when critiqueing paragraphs of your wip. She is very honest, which helps you become a better writer. Honest but constructive. Good advice on writing historical fiction. She helped me make my dialogue sound more historical. The best fiction writing teacher I've had so far.
This course helped move me to the next level. Some things you can glean as a writer of historical fiction by reading it, but this course helped synthesize and organize the approach that is so critical to make a story in another time period and world ring true.
I enjoyed the class taught by Anne Mateer immensely. It helped me focus on what historical fiction is and the necessary tools to be confident in the book I’m writing. The lessons provided once a week emphasized proper use of period language, daily chores, and situations. Learning about other authors in this genre were fantastic examples. I recommend this class to others as it provides the foundation of getting you well on your way to writing your historical fiction novel.
I took Navigating the Tightrope when I decided to switch over from contemporary romance to historical fiction. I'd written three novels, with no offers, and thought I'd try the genre I love most. But writing historical fiction intimidated me; I didn't know where to start.
This class helped me learn how to use the setting and historical details to make my stories come alive. It offered me the confidence to write a book set in 19th century India. And because of it, that book was contracted by my top-choice publisher (along with an additional two books.) I'm so grateful to Anne and this class. She's a fantastic teacher and mentor.
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