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| Image: A glimpse of the Swan Mountain Range in Montana by MK McClintock |
The process of writing historical fiction is a simple one,
but quite time-consuming. For every hour that I write, another hour has
been spent on research; whether online or by reading historical tombs
and texts written from the time period. There are times when I have to
contact an historical society for a little help and guidance; I’ve
always found them willing and eager to assist. Lucky for me, I enjoy the
research as much as I do the writing.
Did that word exist in 1875? How long did train or sea travel
take in 1892? What style of furniture were commonly found in the
bedrooms in 1883? What was the name of that town in that region of
Scotland in 1882 and what year did it change? A new question arises on
every page!
There’s an amazing world filled with adventure, romance,
heartache, devastation, hope, progress, and people doing everything they
can to survive, and it can all be found in our world’s fascinating
history.
I knew that when I wrote the short stories for A Home for Christmas,
I wanted Rocky Mountain settings. This was an easy feat since I’ve
spent most of my life in the Rocky Mountains. I don’t have to wonder
what they look like because I’ve climbed the mountains, swam in the
lakes and rivers, and stared up at the star-filled skies on a cold
winter’s night. Of course there is still research involved, but once you
become familiar with a time period, it’s like visiting an old friend
whose secrets, dreams, and fears you already know.
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This post was original written for and posted on the blog of author June McCrary Jacobs.
