Make your historical fiction immersive, compelling, and unforgettable!
Writing Historical Fiction
Strengthen your historical fiction and get your book written confidently with this course taught by an award-winning instructor.
Online. 6 weeks from 7 May to 11 June
7 pm - 9 pm Amsterdam Time / 1 pm - 3 pm New York Time
"The author picks up the story where the historian stops," novelist Hilary Mantel once said.
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Have you ever wanted to step into the shoes of a historical figure and imagine their untold story? Whether you’re inspired by real-life events or simply love history, this beginner-friendly course will help you develop the skills to write compelling historical fiction.
Leave dry history behind and dive into the techniques that make the best historical fiction feel vivid, authentic and alive.
About the instructor
Maggie Holman has more than forty years of teaching experience. She writes speculative fiction, and has published five books including The Wishing Sisters, The Knocking and Save the White Stag.
Maggie teaches our fiction courses and runs the weekly write-ins.
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Her writing has been longlisted at the Mogford Prize and the National Literacy Trust UK, and shortlisted by the Nature of Cities and SaveAs Writers.
What you'll learn
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How to develop historical character and setting with immersive detail
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Learn difference between showing & telling in historical fiction
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Build a compelling plot that fits within a historical context
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Improve your editing skills to refine your final piece
This course is perfect for
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Beginner or advanced beginner writers who want to explore historical fiction
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Writers who love history and want to explore it creatively
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Anyone curious about blending research and fiction to craft compelling stories
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No prior experience in fiction writing is required!
Student, Netherlands
The workshop was useful in breaking down the daunting task of writing fiction into more manageable tasks e.g. thinking of different introductions. I learnt about different POV of characters and how to set a scene/introduce a story.
What you'll get
Live sessions
6 live sessions to help you develop a toolkit for writing historical fiction. Each week focuses on a different aspect.
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Writing prompts​
Each week you'll receive a writing prompt and accompanying worksheet based on that week's technique. These are yours to keep and use!
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Guidance for your project​
You'll receive constructive feedback on your writing in each session from the instructor and your peers.
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Lisa, Czechia
I learned how to inject detail and emotion in my writing. I really enjoyed reading the sample exercises to gain insight. I do look forward to more opportunities with The Writing Grove - online and in-person :)
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How much writing experience do I need?None! Just a love of reading and storytelling. Our students range from aspiring writers to experienced authors. Everyone is welcome.
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Can I bring my kids/partner?Sorry, but no. This retreat is just for those who want to focus on their writing without distractions.
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Are there shared rooms?The palazzo you'll stay at only has single-occupancy rooms.
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Where do I fly into?Nardò is an just an hour's flight from Rome. There are 2 airports you can fly into. Brindisi Airport: 1 hour drive from Nardò Bari Airport: About 2 hour drive from Nardò You can also take a train to the beautiful city of Lecce from anywhere in Italy. Lecce is about a 25-minute drive from Nardò. The trains in Italy are wonderful - clean, safe and modern. It's also a great way to see the country. We can arrange a transfer from either of the two airports or the train station. If you would also like recommendations for booking travel, don't hesitate to contact me at Lloyd@writinggrove.com.
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Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?Yes! Don't hesitate to contact me at Lloyd@writinggrove.com with your needs or requirements.
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How can I offset the impact of my travelling by plane?For every participant, I donate to a local biofarming regeneration project that sequesters 600kg (.7 tons) of carbon per year. If you'd like to make an additional donation, let me know!
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What to expect on a writing retreatIn short: rest, inspiration, relaxation and focus! You can read more about what to expect on writing retreats here: https://www.writinggrove.com/post/why-you-should-go-on-a-writing-retreat