A Novelist’s Muse

Published: February 1st, 2026

Calling all fiction writers. I salute you! Writing novels is hard work. But what a relief when a finished book is eventually published and out there for millions to enjoy. If only! And that is where I am now. Following twenty four previously published non-fiction books (fourteen by Routledge, the educational publisher), my two novels are now published and well reviewed by those who have read them. And, having discovered that non-fiction authors can also write fiction, what a pleasure it has been, creating my characters’ dramatic plot lines.  

Contrary to how we may imagine – characters in fiction do become real. At least, in the minds of writers. How else could we create page-turning stories that engage readers if the characters do not live and breathe in our minds: telling us what to write, and directing their own actions, so to speak – at least for the duration of the writing process.

So, having recently published my two novels on paperback and on Kindle, I am getting on with the third captivating tale in this historical saga. My main character, has led me through her many challenges and traumas: from the death of Queen Victoria in 1901 (A Lie Never Dies), through the terrible events of WW1, into the 1920’s (Love, Lies… and Loss). Her story, and lingering presence, hover in my mind… to be continued. 

Many heartfelt thanks to those who have read my novels, including members of my local reading group, whose positive comments have also indicated how they welcome the intrigue and action that remains strong throughout the plot. 

A fellow self-published author (Elaine Powell), who has managed to build up a loyal band of followers for her historical fiction, once shared the following advice: that in a historical novel, readers desire three main ingredients – history, mystery and soap-opera.

Let’s examine briefly how these novel ingredients fit together. Firstly, the history. It goes without saying that like ourselves, characters in novels live within their specific era, experiencing the social and political views, and significant events, of their time. My character lived through 1914, so had to experience the horrific events of the First World War, mainly told by the soldiers to whom her own story was linked. I have recently read the celebrated Pulitzer Prize-winning classic, ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ (published 1960, Harper Lee): a shockingly racist story that is, of course, true to the cruelties of its historical era. Indeed might the success of that novel be attributed, not only to the quality of the book itself, but to its historical significance in US society?

Where does the mystery fit in? Most humans experience traumas and challenges. Stories come alive from the ‘what ifs’ that cause readers to wonder what will happen to the main characters. Will they live or die? Be happy or sad? Gain or lose? Kill or be killed?

Now, the soap-opera, with its reference to such programmes as Coronation Street and Eastenders. Is the sheer wonder of being human, also that each of us is so different: that having been allocated the same human traits, and depending on situations such as upbringing and social class, that often define life chances and opportunities, we use and develop those common traits in order to evolve as individuals? So, in my view, soap-opera refers to the range of human values and emotions portrayed by the characters in the novel. Evil, liar, selfish …or kind, caring generous and good? Manipulating and controlling? Strong or weak? Introvert or extrovert? 

So, to my novelist’s muse – and third book. Which of my characters’ soap opera dramas need to be continued? Which key historical events will feature? And what mysteries will there be to intrigue and capture readers? 

We wait and see. Meanwhile books 1 and 2 are out there. ‘A thumping good read.’and ‘I read this book in two days, couldn’t put it down!’ – are just two of many received comments.

Enjoy!  

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