Surprising Friends for the Historical Author

By Sandra Merville Hart

Let’s face it. Historical authors spend many hours researching – perhaps as much time as on writing the novel. This happened for me on my last novel but that’s unusual. Here are three ways to reap the greatest benefits from research: take detailed notes; jot down seemingly unrelated yet interesting facts; and maintain an accurate bibliography.

It is important to take detailed notes of important information. Stay organized. Create a word document for research notes and save it in the same folder with the manuscript and supporting documents. Begin with listing the source for the book or article. In short, write the bibliography information. This not only helps relocate the book again but it also builds a bibliography.If something fascinates you, chances are good that it will also fascinate readers. #writing #HistNovel Share on X

Take copious notes on vital facts. Always include the page number where the information is found. It may surprise an author the number of times he or she refers to notes or resource materials while writing a novel.

Authors may search for specific facts at the beginning of their historical research and skim over other interesting information. If something fascinates you, chances are good that it will also fascinate readers.

Even if the information does not appear to fit in the story at the early stages, take note of the facts. Jot down the book or article citing the information along with the page number to find it easily later. The perfect place for the fascinating fact may appear while writing the novel to add authenticity and flavor to the story.

If the fascinating tidbit does not fit the novel, don’t use it. You may use the information in a future book or article. Then you’ll be happy you waited for the right time.

Lastly, remember to maintain a bibliography of all research materials. Even if publishers do not require the document, authors are often requested to speak at book clubs about their novels. It’s helpful to refer back to source material to prepare discussion notes.

Bibliographies can be a time saver when our novels are not accepted right away. My agent recently suggested polishing the cobwebs off a romance I completed five years ago. I’m not only a better writer now, my research skills have improved. Some previous resources bear a second reading. Had I not maintained an accurate bibliography, I would start almost from scratch to refresh myself on the history.

Making the effort to take detailed notes, document fun historical facts, and maintain an accurate bibliography actually saves time later. Good luck!