Pat here with today’s Ask A Wench "Why do we write historicals and not contemporaries?"
I can’t say that I don’t want to write contemporaries since I have, but historicals are my main love. I researched contemporary subjects for the contemporaries, but researching a town or a career isn’t quite the same as digging into the culture and politics of two hundred years ago. I can put my 1830 people on the cutting edge of industry and inventions and know those industries and inventions won’t be outdated tomorrow, they’ll always be fixed in 1830. But if I write, as I have, about a techie in the 21st century who uses the latest greatest device, a thumb drive—by the next year, that book is completely outdated. And man, cell phones really ruin suspense!
And then, of course, there’s the sex thing. When I first started writing, romance of the contemporary category variety was relatively “clean.” But historical romance broke onto the lists with lush, exotic scenes fraught with tension, because historically sex was taboo outside of marriage. Creating plots where I could bring my disparate characters together in bed made writing exciting. These days, all romance Must Have Sex, and it’s become a giant yawn, but I still have the traditional fall back that the characters can’t have sex unless they’re married or under exceptional circumstances. Having that ax hanging over the characters’ heads is much more interesting to me than having them fall in bed at first sight.
Mary Jo: 
This one is easy–I LIKE writing historicals. <G> I like history–my sophomore year of college, I sat in on an English history class that met Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 8:00 am just because the subject interested me. (To be fair, the professor was a great storyteller which made it fun, but really—8:00 am on Saturdays? And not even taking the course for credit? In retrospect, I impress myself. <G>)
Historical stories have a mythic element that's hard to achieve in contemporary stories. Characters can be larger than life and even over the top–because it's fun. <G> Ditto outrageous plot twists as long as they can be made plausible, if not likely.
History is also a good lens for discussing contemporary issues at a safe distance. Plus, you can pick a time period or historical situation that will highlight the themes you choose to emphasize. History can also provide conflicts that wouldn't make sense in modern times. All that, plus fun clothing!
Really, what's not to like?
Mary Jo, admitting that she actually has written three contemporaries.
Anne:
I've written one contemporary — a romantic comedy and I would like to write more one day. But I chose historicals—and specifically Regency-era historicals—for several reasons. I grew up reading and rereading Georgette Heyer, so when I realized there was a market for new Regency-era stories, it felt like I’d come home. Writing stories set during that period of history, I can play in glamorous ballrooms, or go to war (Gallant Waif). I can be part of the industrial revolution (The Perfect Waltz) or sail the seas as part of the British Empire (An Honorable Thief). I can explore Egypt (To Catch a Bride), visit post-war Spain (Bride By Mistake) or go on the Grand Tour (Tallie's Knight.)
There were such contrasts in wealth and opportunities — rags to riches and back again — and I love to show people who've fallen through the cracks in society, and somehow get themselves back, finding love and happiness along the way. History is such a fabulous adventure playground, and I feel I've barely scratched the surface.
Andrea/Cara:
Even as a child, I was fascinated by history. I loved reading about knights in armor, Colonial America, pirates sailing the Spanish Main . . . I think one of the things that appealed to me about the past was that it sparked my imagination in a way that the present didn’t. It offered so many worlds for limitless exploration.
I fell under the spell of Regency England when I read Austen and Heyer, and it just struck a chord. I knew that was what I wanted to write. I love the era because it was such a fabulously interesting time and place—it was a world aswirl in silks, seduction and the intrigue of the
Napoleonic Wars. Radical new ideas were clashing with the conventional thinking of the past, and as a result, people were challenging and changing the fundamentals of their society. In so many ways, it was the birth of 
the modern world, and for me, its challenges, its characters and its conflicts have such relevance to our own times. I love the language, the glamor, the heady mix of exotic and familiar, the contrast of formal ballrooms and swashbuckling adventure. It’s a perfect era in which to create heroines and heroes who question convention and explore their own inner doubts and fears as they seek to define their own place in the world. Not to mention there’s something about a man in breeches and boots . . .)
That said, I’m toying with some contemporary ideas, but I still haven’t found the right voice.
Susan:
I wrote history academically years before I wrote historical fiction, although as a kid I dabbled in writing a little historical fiction on the side (or imagined I was!). I've always preferred historical fiction, which for me 
may have started with the fairy tales that I loved above all. It was a quick leap from fairy tales to reading whatever historically-set story I could find, such as Little Women and The Witch of Blackbird Pond. As an adult reader, I came a little late to historical romance. I was in graduate school studying medieval art and reading medieval poetry and romans before I read medieval romance, but I was quickly hooked—here were the great fairy tales of my childhood in a new incarnation. Within a few years, I tried my hand at writing fiction while I was still writing scholarly papers.
Historical fiction has a magical way of opening doors to other realms, and I am always happier in some other century, especially some century in Scotland. What captures my imagination and keeps me in historical fiction is not just a deep love and curiosity about history, but the mythic and archetypal connection to the fairy tales I adored as a child, and the history, artworks, myths and legends I studied in grad school. History and fairy tales are filled with heroes and heroines, with romance and danger and a sense of magic. I'm content there, with much to explore yet in my own writing. I haven't written contemporary settings, but I do love to read them: a heroine who wears jeans and eats pizza is—really—just a plain relief to read about sometimes. Someday, I admit, I'd like to play with writing a contemporary setting—particularly one with a historical spin!
Nicola:
These days I am fortunate that I combine both in my dual time or time-slip novels, so I get the best of both worlds. For years I was a history girl; studying, writing and reading history was my favourite pastime from childhood, so it felt natural to write historical romance rather than contemporary romance. Besides, I had tried writing contemporary fiction a few times and failed spectacularly. There are a couple of manuscripts still under the bed to prove it. 
So when it came to combining a contemporary and a historical strand—or two—in my time-slip books, I was naturally apprehensive. Would I be able to make the present come alive in the same way that I hope I do with my historical novels? It felt very difficult to portray the modern world; oddly more difficult than creating a vivid world of the past. Over the last few years, though, I have come to enjoy it. I like observing modern language and modern dialogue and contrasting it with the historical. I particularly enjoy looking for the traces of history that still exist in the present—the old place names, buildings that have stood for hundreds of years, folklore and legends that have been passed down for generations. Historical and contemporary lives are not as far apart as they sometimes seem and I am so lucky to be able to combine both in my writing.
How about you? Do you prefer reading historicals or contemporaries—and why?
I love romance and I love history, so it’s only natural that I would prefer the historical. I do read some contemporary (Sherryl Woods, Emily March, Jayne Ann Krentz) but most of my hero and heroines are from another era. I don’t know exactly why, but for some reason, the past “seems” more romantic to me.
As far as sex in stories – I don’t mind, as long as it’s not over done. I have always thought that sex is like desert. It’s good and yummy and most people enjoy it, but it’s not meat and potatoes. If your story has good bones (well defined characters and story ploy) a sex scene won’t make it or break it.
I love romance and I love history, so it’s only natural that I would prefer the historical. I do read some contemporary (Sherryl Woods, Emily March, Jayne Ann Krentz) but most of my hero and heroines are from another era. I don’t know exactly why, but for some reason, the past “seems” more romantic to me.
As far as sex in stories – I don’t mind, as long as it’s not over done. I have always thought that sex is like desert. It’s good and yummy and most people enjoy it, but it’s not meat and potatoes. If your story has good bones (well defined characters and story ploy) a sex scene won’t make it or break it.
I love romance and I love history, so it’s only natural that I would prefer the historical. I do read some contemporary (Sherryl Woods, Emily March, Jayne Ann Krentz) but most of my hero and heroines are from another era. I don’t know exactly why, but for some reason, the past “seems” more romantic to me.
As far as sex in stories – I don’t mind, as long as it’s not over done. I have always thought that sex is like desert. It’s good and yummy and most people enjoy it, but it’s not meat and potatoes. If your story has good bones (well defined characters and story ploy) a sex scene won’t make it or break it.
I love romance and I love history, so it’s only natural that I would prefer the historical. I do read some contemporary (Sherryl Woods, Emily March, Jayne Ann Krentz) but most of my hero and heroines are from another era. I don’t know exactly why, but for some reason, the past “seems” more romantic to me.
As far as sex in stories – I don’t mind, as long as it’s not over done. I have always thought that sex is like desert. It’s good and yummy and most people enjoy it, but it’s not meat and potatoes. If your story has good bones (well defined characters and story ploy) a sex scene won’t make it or break it.
I love romance and I love history, so it’s only natural that I would prefer the historical. I do read some contemporary (Sherryl Woods, Emily March, Jayne Ann Krentz) but most of my hero and heroines are from another era. I don’t know exactly why, but for some reason, the past “seems” more romantic to me.
As far as sex in stories – I don’t mind, as long as it’s not over done. I have always thought that sex is like desert. It’s good and yummy and most people enjoy it, but it’s not meat and potatoes. If your story has good bones (well defined characters and story ploy) a sex scene won’t make it or break it.
oh, oh – make that dessert, not desert (smile).
oh, oh – make that dessert, not desert (smile).
oh, oh – make that dessert, not desert (smile).
oh, oh – make that dessert, not desert (smile).
oh, oh – make that dessert, not desert (smile).
Well said, Mary!
Well said, Mary!
Well said, Mary!
Well said, Mary!
Well said, Mary!
Maybe we find more meat and potatoes in historicals? All those contemporary heroines go around eating salads and yogurt. 😉 And yes, sex as dessert!
Maybe we find more meat and potatoes in historicals? All those contemporary heroines go around eating salads and yogurt. 😉 And yes, sex as dessert!
Maybe we find more meat and potatoes in historicals? All those contemporary heroines go around eating salads and yogurt. 😉 And yes, sex as dessert!
Maybe we find more meat and potatoes in historicals? All those contemporary heroines go around eating salads and yogurt. 😉 And yes, sex as dessert!
Maybe we find more meat and potatoes in historicals? All those contemporary heroines go around eating salads and yogurt. 😉 And yes, sex as dessert!
I’ve always been a history lover and an avid reader so mixing the two just came naturally. I read contemporary so to speak, usually Susanna Kearsley or Kate Morton, but then again, they are historical too. I just prefer it. The gallantry, the pageantry, the traditions, the “rules”, the times when it wasn’t “anything goes” like it is today. The things that formed our world and our ancestors. I have no problem with sex in my reading, as long as it’s not the ENTIRE book. LOL I also don’t mind suspending reality for a moment to time slip along but I always go back to the history.
I’ve always been a history lover and an avid reader so mixing the two just came naturally. I read contemporary so to speak, usually Susanna Kearsley or Kate Morton, but then again, they are historical too. I just prefer it. The gallantry, the pageantry, the traditions, the “rules”, the times when it wasn’t “anything goes” like it is today. The things that formed our world and our ancestors. I have no problem with sex in my reading, as long as it’s not the ENTIRE book. LOL I also don’t mind suspending reality for a moment to time slip along but I always go back to the history.
I’ve always been a history lover and an avid reader so mixing the two just came naturally. I read contemporary so to speak, usually Susanna Kearsley or Kate Morton, but then again, they are historical too. I just prefer it. The gallantry, the pageantry, the traditions, the “rules”, the times when it wasn’t “anything goes” like it is today. The things that formed our world and our ancestors. I have no problem with sex in my reading, as long as it’s not the ENTIRE book. LOL I also don’t mind suspending reality for a moment to time slip along but I always go back to the history.
I’ve always been a history lover and an avid reader so mixing the two just came naturally. I read contemporary so to speak, usually Susanna Kearsley or Kate Morton, but then again, they are historical too. I just prefer it. The gallantry, the pageantry, the traditions, the “rules”, the times when it wasn’t “anything goes” like it is today. The things that formed our world and our ancestors. I have no problem with sex in my reading, as long as it’s not the ENTIRE book. LOL I also don’t mind suspending reality for a moment to time slip along but I always go back to the history.
I’ve always been a history lover and an avid reader so mixing the two just came naturally. I read contemporary so to speak, usually Susanna Kearsley or Kate Morton, but then again, they are historical too. I just prefer it. The gallantry, the pageantry, the traditions, the “rules”, the times when it wasn’t “anything goes” like it is today. The things that formed our world and our ancestors. I have no problem with sex in my reading, as long as it’s not the ENTIRE book. LOL I also don’t mind suspending reality for a moment to time slip along but I always go back to the history.
Interesting that you want the “rules” that made up so much of society back then! I need to ponder that as a reflection of today’s no-holds-barred culture.
Interesting that you want the “rules” that made up so much of society back then! I need to ponder that as a reflection of today’s no-holds-barred culture.
Interesting that you want the “rules” that made up so much of society back then! I need to ponder that as a reflection of today’s no-holds-barred culture.
Interesting that you want the “rules” that made up so much of society back then! I need to ponder that as a reflection of today’s no-holds-barred culture.
Interesting that you want the “rules” that made up so much of society back then! I need to ponder that as a reflection of today’s no-holds-barred culture.
As I’ve said before, I have read historical fiction since childhood, and still remain true to it. I also like modern romance: Roberts, Krentz, Neggars, Linda Howard, Linda Lael Miller. And I read Science Fiction, and lighthearted mysteries (both historical and modern).All three of these genres explore sociology in specific times and places. (The sociology appears in the books I read, rather than in all books in these genres.)
Nowadays I probably read more historical romance than the others. Much modern romance and much SF has wandered off into disutopias; I have NO interest in such negativism! (See the posts in the previous blog “The Happy Ending.”
As I’ve said before, I have read historical fiction since childhood, and still remain true to it. I also like modern romance: Roberts, Krentz, Neggars, Linda Howard, Linda Lael Miller. And I read Science Fiction, and lighthearted mysteries (both historical and modern).All three of these genres explore sociology in specific times and places. (The sociology appears in the books I read, rather than in all books in these genres.)
Nowadays I probably read more historical romance than the others. Much modern romance and much SF has wandered off into disutopias; I have NO interest in such negativism! (See the posts in the previous blog “The Happy Ending.”
As I’ve said before, I have read historical fiction since childhood, and still remain true to it. I also like modern romance: Roberts, Krentz, Neggars, Linda Howard, Linda Lael Miller. And I read Science Fiction, and lighthearted mysteries (both historical and modern).All three of these genres explore sociology in specific times and places. (The sociology appears in the books I read, rather than in all books in these genres.)
Nowadays I probably read more historical romance than the others. Much modern romance and much SF has wandered off into disutopias; I have NO interest in such negativism! (See the posts in the previous blog “The Happy Ending.”
As I’ve said before, I have read historical fiction since childhood, and still remain true to it. I also like modern romance: Roberts, Krentz, Neggars, Linda Howard, Linda Lael Miller. And I read Science Fiction, and lighthearted mysteries (both historical and modern).All three of these genres explore sociology in specific times and places. (The sociology appears in the books I read, rather than in all books in these genres.)
Nowadays I probably read more historical romance than the others. Much modern romance and much SF has wandered off into disutopias; I have NO interest in such negativism! (See the posts in the previous blog “The Happy Ending.”
As I’ve said before, I have read historical fiction since childhood, and still remain true to it. I also like modern romance: Roberts, Krentz, Neggars, Linda Howard, Linda Lael Miller. And I read Science Fiction, and lighthearted mysteries (both historical and modern).All three of these genres explore sociology in specific times and places. (The sociology appears in the books I read, rather than in all books in these genres.)
Nowadays I probably read more historical romance than the others. Much modern romance and much SF has wandered off into disutopias; I have NO interest in such negativism! (See the posts in the previous blog “The Happy Ending.”
I can tell you why easily. It was the structure of society and, as human nature tends to, it was the task of living with them and around them that caused so much of the drama that we like to read about. Today, no one raises an eyebrow unless you’re running for president. LOL But in all seriousness, it was that structure that made people who they were and what fascinates us about other time periods, well, me anyway.
I can tell you why easily. It was the structure of society and, as human nature tends to, it was the task of living with them and around them that caused so much of the drama that we like to read about. Today, no one raises an eyebrow unless you’re running for president. LOL But in all seriousness, it was that structure that made people who they were and what fascinates us about other time periods, well, me anyway.
I can tell you why easily. It was the structure of society and, as human nature tends to, it was the task of living with them and around them that caused so much of the drama that we like to read about. Today, no one raises an eyebrow unless you’re running for president. LOL But in all seriousness, it was that structure that made people who they were and what fascinates us about other time periods, well, me anyway.
I can tell you why easily. It was the structure of society and, as human nature tends to, it was the task of living with them and around them that caused so much of the drama that we like to read about. Today, no one raises an eyebrow unless you’re running for president. LOL But in all seriousness, it was that structure that made people who they were and what fascinates us about other time periods, well, me anyway.
I can tell you why easily. It was the structure of society and, as human nature tends to, it was the task of living with them and around them that caused so much of the drama that we like to read about. Today, no one raises an eyebrow unless you’re running for president. LOL But in all seriousness, it was that structure that made people who they were and what fascinates us about other time periods, well, me anyway.
I was just thinking about contemporaries, and decided I like it when they are set in a certain time period. I know of at least one romance publisher that has a “vintage” contemporary line, where they’ll take stories about – e.g. – September 11.
I think “contemporary” works best when you can give it a date, rather than pretending it’s just any random year.
I LOVED it recently when US gymnast Simone Biles met Zac Efron, and she wanted to put something of them together on social media, and he had NO idea how it worked. I still think of him as a Disney movie kid, and even HE was out of date when it came to social media!
I was just thinking about contemporaries, and decided I like it when they are set in a certain time period. I know of at least one romance publisher that has a “vintage” contemporary line, where they’ll take stories about – e.g. – September 11.
I think “contemporary” works best when you can give it a date, rather than pretending it’s just any random year.
I LOVED it recently when US gymnast Simone Biles met Zac Efron, and she wanted to put something of them together on social media, and he had NO idea how it worked. I still think of him as a Disney movie kid, and even HE was out of date when it came to social media!
I was just thinking about contemporaries, and decided I like it when they are set in a certain time period. I know of at least one romance publisher that has a “vintage” contemporary line, where they’ll take stories about – e.g. – September 11.
I think “contemporary” works best when you can give it a date, rather than pretending it’s just any random year.
I LOVED it recently when US gymnast Simone Biles met Zac Efron, and she wanted to put something of them together on social media, and he had NO idea how it worked. I still think of him as a Disney movie kid, and even HE was out of date when it came to social media!
I was just thinking about contemporaries, and decided I like it when they are set in a certain time period. I know of at least one romance publisher that has a “vintage” contemporary line, where they’ll take stories about – e.g. – September 11.
I think “contemporary” works best when you can give it a date, rather than pretending it’s just any random year.
I LOVED it recently when US gymnast Simone Biles met Zac Efron, and she wanted to put something of them together on social media, and he had NO idea how it worked. I still think of him as a Disney movie kid, and even HE was out of date when it came to social media!
I was just thinking about contemporaries, and decided I like it when they are set in a certain time period. I know of at least one romance publisher that has a “vintage” contemporary line, where they’ll take stories about – e.g. – September 11.
I think “contemporary” works best when you can give it a date, rather than pretending it’s just any random year.
I LOVED it recently when US gymnast Simone Biles met Zac Efron, and she wanted to put something of them together on social media, and he had NO idea how it worked. I still think of him as a Disney movie kid, and even HE was out of date when it came to social media!
I should say, though, that I love all kinds of books. I don’t really like when people say they refuse to read anything other than one sort of book.
Sometimes it’s nice to read about heroines who have some rights, and have a much lower chance of having ten+ children and dying giving birth…
On the other hand, there’s no denying the past has some real romance to it.
I should say, though, that I love all kinds of books. I don’t really like when people say they refuse to read anything other than one sort of book.
Sometimes it’s nice to read about heroines who have some rights, and have a much lower chance of having ten+ children and dying giving birth…
On the other hand, there’s no denying the past has some real romance to it.
I should say, though, that I love all kinds of books. I don’t really like when people say they refuse to read anything other than one sort of book.
Sometimes it’s nice to read about heroines who have some rights, and have a much lower chance of having ten+ children and dying giving birth…
On the other hand, there’s no denying the past has some real romance to it.
I should say, though, that I love all kinds of books. I don’t really like when people say they refuse to read anything other than one sort of book.
Sometimes it’s nice to read about heroines who have some rights, and have a much lower chance of having ten+ children and dying giving birth…
On the other hand, there’s no denying the past has some real romance to it.
I should say, though, that I love all kinds of books. I don’t really like when people say they refuse to read anything other than one sort of book.
Sometimes it’s nice to read about heroines who have some rights, and have a much lower chance of having ten+ children and dying giving birth…
On the other hand, there’s no denying the past has some real romance to it.
I’m someone who dislikes structure, so I haven’t given this much thought, which is why it fascinates me now. You may be on to something!
I’m someone who dislikes structure, so I haven’t given this much thought, which is why it fascinates me now. You may be on to something!
I’m someone who dislikes structure, so I haven’t given this much thought, which is why it fascinates me now. You may be on to something!
I’m someone who dislikes structure, so I haven’t given this much thought, which is why it fascinates me now. You may be on to something!
I’m someone who dislikes structure, so I haven’t given this much thought, which is why it fascinates me now. You may be on to something!
Totally hear you on negativism! And yes, I tend to migrate toward authors who write about people and how they work within the society they are given. It’s not as easily done with contemporaries, but a good author does that world-building. Nice point!
Totally hear you on negativism! And yes, I tend to migrate toward authors who write about people and how they work within the society they are given. It’s not as easily done with contemporaries, but a good author does that world-building. Nice point!
Totally hear you on negativism! And yes, I tend to migrate toward authors who write about people and how they work within the society they are given. It’s not as easily done with contemporaries, but a good author does that world-building. Nice point!
Totally hear you on negativism! And yes, I tend to migrate toward authors who write about people and how they work within the society they are given. It’s not as easily done with contemporaries, but a good author does that world-building. Nice point!
Totally hear you on negativism! And yes, I tend to migrate toward authors who write about people and how they work within the society they are given. It’s not as easily done with contemporaries, but a good author does that world-building. Nice point!
Huh, that’s what I’ve been doing with my Family Genius mysteries–I’ve assigned them the year 2011 so the world stays static. I hadn’t thought about deliberately writing in a particular contemporary year–wouldn’t that eventually make them historicals?
Huh, that’s what I’ve been doing with my Family Genius mysteries–I’ve assigned them the year 2011 so the world stays static. I hadn’t thought about deliberately writing in a particular contemporary year–wouldn’t that eventually make them historicals?
Huh, that’s what I’ve been doing with my Family Genius mysteries–I’ve assigned them the year 2011 so the world stays static. I hadn’t thought about deliberately writing in a particular contemporary year–wouldn’t that eventually make them historicals?
Huh, that’s what I’ve been doing with my Family Genius mysteries–I’ve assigned them the year 2011 so the world stays static. I hadn’t thought about deliberately writing in a particular contemporary year–wouldn’t that eventually make them historicals?
Huh, that’s what I’ve been doing with my Family Genius mysteries–I’ve assigned them the year 2011 so the world stays static. I hadn’t thought about deliberately writing in a particular contemporary year–wouldn’t that eventually make them historicals?
I read both historical and contemporary romance. I feel there is more drama in the historical romances because of the limitations of technology, communication etc. Contemporary times demand stories that are grounded more in reality. I cannot explain properly but there is a certain quality in the Historicals that can create more intrigue and keep us reading.
I read both historical and contemporary romance. I feel there is more drama in the historical romances because of the limitations of technology, communication etc. Contemporary times demand stories that are grounded more in reality. I cannot explain properly but there is a certain quality in the Historicals that can create more intrigue and keep us reading.
I read both historical and contemporary romance. I feel there is more drama in the historical romances because of the limitations of technology, communication etc. Contemporary times demand stories that are grounded more in reality. I cannot explain properly but there is a certain quality in the Historicals that can create more intrigue and keep us reading.
I read both historical and contemporary romance. I feel there is more drama in the historical romances because of the limitations of technology, communication etc. Contemporary times demand stories that are grounded more in reality. I cannot explain properly but there is a certain quality in the Historicals that can create more intrigue and keep us reading.
I read both historical and contemporary romance. I feel there is more drama in the historical romances because of the limitations of technology, communication etc. Contemporary times demand stories that are grounded more in reality. I cannot explain properly but there is a certain quality in the Historicals that can create more intrigue and keep us reading.
I love historical romance novels. I love the history the culture the food I love to read the descriptions of the houses and everything. I enjoyed studying history in school and I love romances so reading historical romance is a given. I have read some contemporary romance but usually it’s like Nora Roberts romantic suspense.
Always love reading about the Wenches, thanks.
I love historical romance novels. I love the history the culture the food I love to read the descriptions of the houses and everything. I enjoyed studying history in school and I love romances so reading historical romance is a given. I have read some contemporary romance but usually it’s like Nora Roberts romantic suspense.
Always love reading about the Wenches, thanks.
I love historical romance novels. I love the history the culture the food I love to read the descriptions of the houses and everything. I enjoyed studying history in school and I love romances so reading historical romance is a given. I have read some contemporary romance but usually it’s like Nora Roberts romantic suspense.
Always love reading about the Wenches, thanks.
I love historical romance novels. I love the history the culture the food I love to read the descriptions of the houses and everything. I enjoyed studying history in school and I love romances so reading historical romance is a given. I have read some contemporary romance but usually it’s like Nora Roberts romantic suspense.
Always love reading about the Wenches, thanks.
I love historical romance novels. I love the history the culture the food I love to read the descriptions of the houses and everything. I enjoyed studying history in school and I love romances so reading historical romance is a given. I have read some contemporary romance but usually it’s like Nora Roberts romantic suspense.
Always love reading about the Wenches, thanks.
I think because we know modern times so well, we know there are only so many possible outcomes–I think you’re right. Historically, we have so many lovely unexpected choices!
I think because we know modern times so well, we know there are only so many possible outcomes–I think you’re right. Historically, we have so many lovely unexpected choices!
I think because we know modern times so well, we know there are only so many possible outcomes–I think you’re right. Historically, we have so many lovely unexpected choices!
I think because we know modern times so well, we know there are only so many possible outcomes–I think you’re right. Historically, we have so many lovely unexpected choices!
I think because we know modern times so well, we know there are only so many possible outcomes–I think you’re right. Historically, we have so many lovely unexpected choices!
Thank you, Roseanna! I love enthusiasm.
Thank you, Roseanna! I love enthusiasm.
Thank you, Roseanna! I love enthusiasm.
Thank you, Roseanna! I love enthusiasm.
Thank you, Roseanna! I love enthusiasm.
In reply to prema, historical romance had no cell phones, no phones period. Letters took time, even a ride or drive from London to wherever took time. And with time, say a two week period, or a month, lots of other things could happen – complications galore were possible.
Had an unusual (for me) thought today as Bill and I turned the need for some stove blacking and high temp black paint for our wood burning stoves into an excuse for a drive heading to northern Michigan to see some of our fall/autumn color. We stopped at a McDonald’s for a cup of coffee and I thought, “This is not nearly as appealing as say a stop at a coffee house or tea shop, or even milk from a cow in Green Park.” But, of course, the whole trip in a part of a day’s time would not have been possible back then.
As far as sex in my historical romance, or whatever book I’m reading, it dawned on me recently that a little goes a long way. Of course, that thought occurred at the end of a supposedly historical romance that started in bed shortly after the introduction and continued in bed for most of the book. Years ago, a hint, even just the closing of a bedroom door, was sufficient. Now authors (or their editors) seem to feel they have to describe sex in detail, right down to an individual whorl of hair on someone’s belly or lower! Very little is left to the reader’s imagination by some author’s any more.
In reply to prema, historical romance had no cell phones, no phones period. Letters took time, even a ride or drive from London to wherever took time. And with time, say a two week period, or a month, lots of other things could happen – complications galore were possible.
Had an unusual (for me) thought today as Bill and I turned the need for some stove blacking and high temp black paint for our wood burning stoves into an excuse for a drive heading to northern Michigan to see some of our fall/autumn color. We stopped at a McDonald’s for a cup of coffee and I thought, “This is not nearly as appealing as say a stop at a coffee house or tea shop, or even milk from a cow in Green Park.” But, of course, the whole trip in a part of a day’s time would not have been possible back then.
As far as sex in my historical romance, or whatever book I’m reading, it dawned on me recently that a little goes a long way. Of course, that thought occurred at the end of a supposedly historical romance that started in bed shortly after the introduction and continued in bed for most of the book. Years ago, a hint, even just the closing of a bedroom door, was sufficient. Now authors (or their editors) seem to feel they have to describe sex in detail, right down to an individual whorl of hair on someone’s belly or lower! Very little is left to the reader’s imagination by some author’s any more.
In reply to prema, historical romance had no cell phones, no phones period. Letters took time, even a ride or drive from London to wherever took time. And with time, say a two week period, or a month, lots of other things could happen – complications galore were possible.
Had an unusual (for me) thought today as Bill and I turned the need for some stove blacking and high temp black paint for our wood burning stoves into an excuse for a drive heading to northern Michigan to see some of our fall/autumn color. We stopped at a McDonald’s for a cup of coffee and I thought, “This is not nearly as appealing as say a stop at a coffee house or tea shop, or even milk from a cow in Green Park.” But, of course, the whole trip in a part of a day’s time would not have been possible back then.
As far as sex in my historical romance, or whatever book I’m reading, it dawned on me recently that a little goes a long way. Of course, that thought occurred at the end of a supposedly historical romance that started in bed shortly after the introduction and continued in bed for most of the book. Years ago, a hint, even just the closing of a bedroom door, was sufficient. Now authors (or their editors) seem to feel they have to describe sex in detail, right down to an individual whorl of hair on someone’s belly or lower! Very little is left to the reader’s imagination by some author’s any more.
In reply to prema, historical romance had no cell phones, no phones period. Letters took time, even a ride or drive from London to wherever took time. And with time, say a two week period, or a month, lots of other things could happen – complications galore were possible.
Had an unusual (for me) thought today as Bill and I turned the need for some stove blacking and high temp black paint for our wood burning stoves into an excuse for a drive heading to northern Michigan to see some of our fall/autumn color. We stopped at a McDonald’s for a cup of coffee and I thought, “This is not nearly as appealing as say a stop at a coffee house or tea shop, or even milk from a cow in Green Park.” But, of course, the whole trip in a part of a day’s time would not have been possible back then.
As far as sex in my historical romance, or whatever book I’m reading, it dawned on me recently that a little goes a long way. Of course, that thought occurred at the end of a supposedly historical romance that started in bed shortly after the introduction and continued in bed for most of the book. Years ago, a hint, even just the closing of a bedroom door, was sufficient. Now authors (or their editors) seem to feel they have to describe sex in detail, right down to an individual whorl of hair on someone’s belly or lower! Very little is left to the reader’s imagination by some author’s any more.
In reply to prema, historical romance had no cell phones, no phones period. Letters took time, even a ride or drive from London to wherever took time. And with time, say a two week period, or a month, lots of other things could happen – complications galore were possible.
Had an unusual (for me) thought today as Bill and I turned the need for some stove blacking and high temp black paint for our wood burning stoves into an excuse for a drive heading to northern Michigan to see some of our fall/autumn color. We stopped at a McDonald’s for a cup of coffee and I thought, “This is not nearly as appealing as say a stop at a coffee house or tea shop, or even milk from a cow in Green Park.” But, of course, the whole trip in a part of a day’s time would not have been possible back then.
As far as sex in my historical romance, or whatever book I’m reading, it dawned on me recently that a little goes a long way. Of course, that thought occurred at the end of a supposedly historical romance that started in bed shortly after the introduction and continued in bed for most of the book. Years ago, a hint, even just the closing of a bedroom door, was sufficient. Now authors (or their editors) seem to feel they have to describe sex in detail, right down to an individual whorl of hair on someone’s belly or lower! Very little is left to the reader’s imagination by some author’s any more.
I do read some contemporary and some paranormal, but the vast majority of my reading is historical romance and history research books about the Regency era.
I got an early start on historical romance – Jane Austen at the age of nine, started Georgette Heyer at the age of ten. Perhaps I never stood a chance. And living in England as a child pretty much sealed the deal.
I think because today’s world moves so quickly, so noisily, so thoughtlessly at times and with hardly any rules, manners or gentility at all historical romance is a welcome respite from the insanity.
And in a great many historical romances love is all about love. In a great many contemporary and paranormal and even romantic suspense novels love seems to be more about sex. Don’t get me wrong, I like my historical romances hot, but I also like the sex to come from love and not the other way around.
I do read some contemporary and some paranormal, but the vast majority of my reading is historical romance and history research books about the Regency era.
I got an early start on historical romance – Jane Austen at the age of nine, started Georgette Heyer at the age of ten. Perhaps I never stood a chance. And living in England as a child pretty much sealed the deal.
I think because today’s world moves so quickly, so noisily, so thoughtlessly at times and with hardly any rules, manners or gentility at all historical romance is a welcome respite from the insanity.
And in a great many historical romances love is all about love. In a great many contemporary and paranormal and even romantic suspense novels love seems to be more about sex. Don’t get me wrong, I like my historical romances hot, but I also like the sex to come from love and not the other way around.
I do read some contemporary and some paranormal, but the vast majority of my reading is historical romance and history research books about the Regency era.
I got an early start on historical romance – Jane Austen at the age of nine, started Georgette Heyer at the age of ten. Perhaps I never stood a chance. And living in England as a child pretty much sealed the deal.
I think because today’s world moves so quickly, so noisily, so thoughtlessly at times and with hardly any rules, manners or gentility at all historical romance is a welcome respite from the insanity.
And in a great many historical romances love is all about love. In a great many contemporary and paranormal and even romantic suspense novels love seems to be more about sex. Don’t get me wrong, I like my historical romances hot, but I also like the sex to come from love and not the other way around.
I do read some contemporary and some paranormal, but the vast majority of my reading is historical romance and history research books about the Regency era.
I got an early start on historical romance – Jane Austen at the age of nine, started Georgette Heyer at the age of ten. Perhaps I never stood a chance. And living in England as a child pretty much sealed the deal.
I think because today’s world moves so quickly, so noisily, so thoughtlessly at times and with hardly any rules, manners or gentility at all historical romance is a welcome respite from the insanity.
And in a great many historical romances love is all about love. In a great many contemporary and paranormal and even romantic suspense novels love seems to be more about sex. Don’t get me wrong, I like my historical romances hot, but I also like the sex to come from love and not the other way around.
I do read some contemporary and some paranormal, but the vast majority of my reading is historical romance and history research books about the Regency era.
I got an early start on historical romance – Jane Austen at the age of nine, started Georgette Heyer at the age of ten. Perhaps I never stood a chance. And living in England as a child pretty much sealed the deal.
I think because today’s world moves so quickly, so noisily, so thoughtlessly at times and with hardly any rules, manners or gentility at all historical romance is a welcome respite from the insanity.
And in a great many historical romances love is all about love. In a great many contemporary and paranormal and even romantic suspense novels love seems to be more about sex. Don’t get me wrong, I like my historical romances hot, but I also like the sex to come from love and not the other way around.
It *would* eventually make them historicals! I do think it’s a nice idea, however. If you give your book a date – and it’s a date you know you can get right – they’ll be the most historically accurate historicals ever written. 🙂
I read some rereleased contemporary category romances where the characters use typewriters… I think it would have been better to give them a date than to pretend they’re from 2016!
It *would* eventually make them historicals! I do think it’s a nice idea, however. If you give your book a date – and it’s a date you know you can get right – they’ll be the most historically accurate historicals ever written. 🙂
I read some rereleased contemporary category romances where the characters use typewriters… I think it would have been better to give them a date than to pretend they’re from 2016!
It *would* eventually make them historicals! I do think it’s a nice idea, however. If you give your book a date – and it’s a date you know you can get right – they’ll be the most historically accurate historicals ever written. 🙂
I read some rereleased contemporary category romances where the characters use typewriters… I think it would have been better to give them a date than to pretend they’re from 2016!
It *would* eventually make them historicals! I do think it’s a nice idea, however. If you give your book a date – and it’s a date you know you can get right – they’ll be the most historically accurate historicals ever written. 🙂
I read some rereleased contemporary category romances where the characters use typewriters… I think it would have been better to give them a date than to pretend they’re from 2016!
It *would* eventually make them historicals! I do think it’s a nice idea, however. If you give your book a date – and it’s a date you know you can get right – they’ll be the most historically accurate historicals ever written. 🙂
I read some rereleased contemporary category romances where the characters use typewriters… I think it would have been better to give them a date than to pretend they’re from 2016!
I have had an additional thought. Many of the books readers here are discussing as historical novels were originally contemporaries — time has made them into historical romances. Jane Austen and Little Women are two instances that come to mind.
I have had an additional thought. Many of the books readers here are discussing as historical novels were originally contemporaries — time has made them into historical romances. Jane Austen and Little Women are two instances that come to mind.
I have had an additional thought. Many of the books readers here are discussing as historical novels were originally contemporaries — time has made them into historical romances. Jane Austen and Little Women are two instances that come to mind.
I have had an additional thought. Many of the books readers here are discussing as historical novels were originally contemporaries — time has made them into historical romances. Jane Austen and Little Women are two instances that come to mind.
I have had an additional thought. Many of the books readers here are discussing as historical novels were originally contemporaries — time has made them into historical romances. Jane Austen and Little Women are two instances that come to mind.
Since a horse pulling a carriage could only go about ten miles without need of rest, our characters had lots of lovely opportunities to stop for tea in charmingly eccentric inns. But they probably wouldn’t have gone far for stove blacking.
I’m afraid publishers are responding to reader purchases by insisting on so much sex. We have to take the cycle to its end before we wear it out and start over. I’m hoping that will be soon because there isn’t anything new a story can say about sex!
Since a horse pulling a carriage could only go about ten miles without need of rest, our characters had lots of lovely opportunities to stop for tea in charmingly eccentric inns. But they probably wouldn’t have gone far for stove blacking.
I’m afraid publishers are responding to reader purchases by insisting on so much sex. We have to take the cycle to its end before we wear it out and start over. I’m hoping that will be soon because there isn’t anything new a story can say about sex!
Since a horse pulling a carriage could only go about ten miles without need of rest, our characters had lots of lovely opportunities to stop for tea in charmingly eccentric inns. But they probably wouldn’t have gone far for stove blacking.
I’m afraid publishers are responding to reader purchases by insisting on so much sex. We have to take the cycle to its end before we wear it out and start over. I’m hoping that will be soon because there isn’t anything new a story can say about sex!
Since a horse pulling a carriage could only go about ten miles without need of rest, our characters had lots of lovely opportunities to stop for tea in charmingly eccentric inns. But they probably wouldn’t have gone far for stove blacking.
I’m afraid publishers are responding to reader purchases by insisting on so much sex. We have to take the cycle to its end before we wear it out and start over. I’m hoping that will be soon because there isn’t anything new a story can say about sex!
Since a horse pulling a carriage could only go about ten miles without need of rest, our characters had lots of lovely opportunities to stop for tea in charmingly eccentric inns. But they probably wouldn’t have gone far for stove blacking.
I’m afraid publishers are responding to reader purchases by insisting on so much sex. We have to take the cycle to its end before we wear it out and start over. I’m hoping that will be soon because there isn’t anything new a story can say about sex!
Yes, I think you were doomed from childhood. As we learned from another of our blogs, readers do tend to favor the types of books they read as young people. But oh, I envy you having the English countryside so you could actually see what I could only imagine at the time!
Yes, I think you were doomed from childhood. As we learned from another of our blogs, readers do tend to favor the types of books they read as young people. But oh, I envy you having the English countryside so you could actually see what I could only imagine at the time!
Yes, I think you were doomed from childhood. As we learned from another of our blogs, readers do tend to favor the types of books they read as young people. But oh, I envy you having the English countryside so you could actually see what I could only imagine at the time!
Yes, I think you were doomed from childhood. As we learned from another of our blogs, readers do tend to favor the types of books they read as young people. But oh, I envy you having the English countryside so you could actually see what I could only imagine at the time!
Yes, I think you were doomed from childhood. As we learned from another of our blogs, readers do tend to favor the types of books they read as young people. But oh, I envy you having the English countryside so you could actually see what I could only imagine at the time!
Ohhh, you’re so right, Sue! Now I must ponder that. What contemporaries today will make it to the historicals of tomorrow? Now there’s a topic to drive us crazy!
Ohhh, you’re so right, Sue! Now I must ponder that. What contemporaries today will make it to the historicals of tomorrow? Now there’s a topic to drive us crazy!
Ohhh, you’re so right, Sue! Now I must ponder that. What contemporaries today will make it to the historicals of tomorrow? Now there’s a topic to drive us crazy!
Ohhh, you’re so right, Sue! Now I must ponder that. What contemporaries today will make it to the historicals of tomorrow? Now there’s a topic to drive us crazy!
Ohhh, you’re so right, Sue! Now I must ponder that. What contemporaries today will make it to the historicals of tomorrow? Now there’s a topic to drive us crazy!
My first reading love is and always will be historical, mainly English historical and set between around 1750 and 1830, which takes in lovely range of exquisite clothing, a dash of highwaymen and regency and some fabulous historical events. Georgette Heyer was one of the first authors I read when I graduated from primary school reading and she’/ bren a favourite ever since, though I’ve since added a host of contemporary writers of historical romance, and of course Jane Austen is up there among my favourites too. I love wit and humour in the novels I read and like Pat, I am quite happy if the bedroom is alluded to rather than presented for my voyeuristic pleasure. Of course if a sex scene is appropriate to the setting, and is written well then I won’t even notice it beyond feeling as though it’s a natural progression in the relationship. Goodness! I didn’t plan to go there. Oddly, while I don’t like reading fantasy that seems to be what I am most comfortable writing.
My first reading love is and always will be historical, mainly English historical and set between around 1750 and 1830, which takes in lovely range of exquisite clothing, a dash of highwaymen and regency and some fabulous historical events. Georgette Heyer was one of the first authors I read when I graduated from primary school reading and she’/ bren a favourite ever since, though I’ve since added a host of contemporary writers of historical romance, and of course Jane Austen is up there among my favourites too. I love wit and humour in the novels I read and like Pat, I am quite happy if the bedroom is alluded to rather than presented for my voyeuristic pleasure. Of course if a sex scene is appropriate to the setting, and is written well then I won’t even notice it beyond feeling as though it’s a natural progression in the relationship. Goodness! I didn’t plan to go there. Oddly, while I don’t like reading fantasy that seems to be what I am most comfortable writing.
My first reading love is and always will be historical, mainly English historical and set between around 1750 and 1830, which takes in lovely range of exquisite clothing, a dash of highwaymen and regency and some fabulous historical events. Georgette Heyer was one of the first authors I read when I graduated from primary school reading and she’/ bren a favourite ever since, though I’ve since added a host of contemporary writers of historical romance, and of course Jane Austen is up there among my favourites too. I love wit and humour in the novels I read and like Pat, I am quite happy if the bedroom is alluded to rather than presented for my voyeuristic pleasure. Of course if a sex scene is appropriate to the setting, and is written well then I won’t even notice it beyond feeling as though it’s a natural progression in the relationship. Goodness! I didn’t plan to go there. Oddly, while I don’t like reading fantasy that seems to be what I am most comfortable writing.
My first reading love is and always will be historical, mainly English historical and set between around 1750 and 1830, which takes in lovely range of exquisite clothing, a dash of highwaymen and regency and some fabulous historical events. Georgette Heyer was one of the first authors I read when I graduated from primary school reading and she’/ bren a favourite ever since, though I’ve since added a host of contemporary writers of historical romance, and of course Jane Austen is up there among my favourites too. I love wit and humour in the novels I read and like Pat, I am quite happy if the bedroom is alluded to rather than presented for my voyeuristic pleasure. Of course if a sex scene is appropriate to the setting, and is written well then I won’t even notice it beyond feeling as though it’s a natural progression in the relationship. Goodness! I didn’t plan to go there. Oddly, while I don’t like reading fantasy that seems to be what I am most comfortable writing.
My first reading love is and always will be historical, mainly English historical and set between around 1750 and 1830, which takes in lovely range of exquisite clothing, a dash of highwaymen and regency and some fabulous historical events. Georgette Heyer was one of the first authors I read when I graduated from primary school reading and she’/ bren a favourite ever since, though I’ve since added a host of contemporary writers of historical romance, and of course Jane Austen is up there among my favourites too. I love wit and humour in the novels I read and like Pat, I am quite happy if the bedroom is alluded to rather than presented for my voyeuristic pleasure. Of course if a sex scene is appropriate to the setting, and is written well then I won’t even notice it beyond feeling as though it’s a natural progression in the relationship. Goodness! I didn’t plan to go there. Oddly, while I don’t like reading fantasy that seems to be what I am most comfortable writing.
I read a few contemporary authors, but 90% of my fiction reading is historical. Somehow the stakes are higher. Class differences were a much more serious obstacle, and just a woman’s decision to have sex could be a matter of life or death and ruin her whole future. You can make the characters larger than life without seeming ridiculous.
Plus the settings and clothes are so much more fun, and I learn so much about history!
I read a few contemporary authors, but 90% of my fiction reading is historical. Somehow the stakes are higher. Class differences were a much more serious obstacle, and just a woman’s decision to have sex could be a matter of life or death and ruin her whole future. You can make the characters larger than life without seeming ridiculous.
Plus the settings and clothes are so much more fun, and I learn so much about history!
I read a few contemporary authors, but 90% of my fiction reading is historical. Somehow the stakes are higher. Class differences were a much more serious obstacle, and just a woman’s decision to have sex could be a matter of life or death and ruin her whole future. You can make the characters larger than life without seeming ridiculous.
Plus the settings and clothes are so much more fun, and I learn so much about history!
I read a few contemporary authors, but 90% of my fiction reading is historical. Somehow the stakes are higher. Class differences were a much more serious obstacle, and just a woman’s decision to have sex could be a matter of life or death and ruin her whole future. You can make the characters larger than life without seeming ridiculous.
Plus the settings and clothes are so much more fun, and I learn so much about history!
I read a few contemporary authors, but 90% of my fiction reading is historical. Somehow the stakes are higher. Class differences were a much more serious obstacle, and just a woman’s decision to have sex could be a matter of life or death and ruin her whole future. You can make the characters larger than life without seeming ridiculous.
Plus the settings and clothes are so much more fun, and I learn so much about history!
Thank you for the thought provoking post and comments. I like to read both historical and contemporary romances. I also like paranormal, fantasy, and science fiction romances. (Just call me an omnivorous romance reader!) I will read nearly anything so long as it’s well written and has a good story. Why? Because reading a well-told romance brings me pleasure.
Thank you for the thought provoking post and comments. I like to read both historical and contemporary romances. I also like paranormal, fantasy, and science fiction romances. (Just call me an omnivorous romance reader!) I will read nearly anything so long as it’s well written and has a good story. Why? Because reading a well-told romance brings me pleasure.
Thank you for the thought provoking post and comments. I like to read both historical and contemporary romances. I also like paranormal, fantasy, and science fiction romances. (Just call me an omnivorous romance reader!) I will read nearly anything so long as it’s well written and has a good story. Why? Because reading a well-told romance brings me pleasure.
Thank you for the thought provoking post and comments. I like to read both historical and contemporary romances. I also like paranormal, fantasy, and science fiction romances. (Just call me an omnivorous romance reader!) I will read nearly anything so long as it’s well written and has a good story. Why? Because reading a well-told romance brings me pleasure.
Thank you for the thought provoking post and comments. I like to read both historical and contemporary romances. I also like paranormal, fantasy, and science fiction romances. (Just call me an omnivorous romance reader!) I will read nearly anything so long as it’s well written and has a good story. Why? Because reading a well-told romance brings me pleasure.
that’s interesting that you grew up reading historical romance but turned to fantasy in writing. Of course, now that I think about it, I didn’t even know historical romance existed outside of Austen until long after I’d left school. So maybe it’s not so odd after all. I grew up reading mysteries and classics, and those reading habits haven’t changed.
that’s interesting that you grew up reading historical romance but turned to fantasy in writing. Of course, now that I think about it, I didn’t even know historical romance existed outside of Austen until long after I’d left school. So maybe it’s not so odd after all. I grew up reading mysteries and classics, and those reading habits haven’t changed.
that’s interesting that you grew up reading historical romance but turned to fantasy in writing. Of course, now that I think about it, I didn’t even know historical romance existed outside of Austen until long after I’d left school. So maybe it’s not so odd after all. I grew up reading mysteries and classics, and those reading habits haven’t changed.
that’s interesting that you grew up reading historical romance but turned to fantasy in writing. Of course, now that I think about it, I didn’t even know historical romance existed outside of Austen until long after I’d left school. So maybe it’s not so odd after all. I grew up reading mysteries and classics, and those reading habits haven’t changed.
that’s interesting that you grew up reading historical romance but turned to fantasy in writing. Of course, now that I think about it, I didn’t even know historical romance existed outside of Austen until long after I’d left school. So maybe it’s not so odd after all. I grew up reading mysteries and classics, and those reading habits haven’t changed.
Yes, yes, exactly! So much more drama in costume.
Yes, yes, exactly! So much more drama in costume.
Yes, yes, exactly! So much more drama in costume.
Yes, yes, exactly! So much more drama in costume.
Yes, yes, exactly! So much more drama in costume.
Bless you and everyone like you out there! Without readers, writers would spend all their time navel-gazing, wouldn’t they?
Bless you and everyone like you out there! Without readers, writers would spend all their time navel-gazing, wouldn’t they?
Bless you and everyone like you out there! Without readers, writers would spend all their time navel-gazing, wouldn’t they?
Bless you and everyone like you out there! Without readers, writers would spend all their time navel-gazing, wouldn’t they?
Bless you and everyone like you out there! Without readers, writers would spend all their time navel-gazing, wouldn’t they?
Little late to this conversation guys as I’ve been away for a few days. It’s historical’s all the way for me. I LOVE history and when it’s combined with a romance story it’s heaven. I don’t read contemporaries at all. I live life everyday and mine has been quite varied so I don’t want to read about other peoples problems. I do like time-slip novels so the bit of contemporary that comes with that is fine. I learn so much from historical’s and my education was curtailed early in life so this makes up for it.
Little late to this conversation guys as I’ve been away for a few days. It’s historical’s all the way for me. I LOVE history and when it’s combined with a romance story it’s heaven. I don’t read contemporaries at all. I live life everyday and mine has been quite varied so I don’t want to read about other peoples problems. I do like time-slip novels so the bit of contemporary that comes with that is fine. I learn so much from historical’s and my education was curtailed early in life so this makes up for it.
Little late to this conversation guys as I’ve been away for a few days. It’s historical’s all the way for me. I LOVE history and when it’s combined with a romance story it’s heaven. I don’t read contemporaries at all. I live life everyday and mine has been quite varied so I don’t want to read about other peoples problems. I do like time-slip novels so the bit of contemporary that comes with that is fine. I learn so much from historical’s and my education was curtailed early in life so this makes up for it.
Little late to this conversation guys as I’ve been away for a few days. It’s historical’s all the way for me. I LOVE history and when it’s combined with a romance story it’s heaven. I don’t read contemporaries at all. I live life everyday and mine has been quite varied so I don’t want to read about other peoples problems. I do like time-slip novels so the bit of contemporary that comes with that is fine. I learn so much from historical’s and my education was curtailed early in life so this makes up for it.
Little late to this conversation guys as I’ve been away for a few days. It’s historical’s all the way for me. I LOVE history and when it’s combined with a romance story it’s heaven. I don’t read contemporaries at all. I live life everyday and mine has been quite varied so I don’t want to read about other peoples problems. I do like time-slip novels so the bit of contemporary that comes with that is fine. I learn so much from historical’s and my education was curtailed early in life so this makes up for it.
I prefer historicals. I never was one for contemporaries because they’re too much like real life, although I read a few, mainly romantic suspense.
I do like to read about gutsy heroines, and they’re easier to do in contemporaries. But every era has its heroines, and I use the term in the sense of a woman who fights for what she wants against the prevailing expectations of her society. I like heroes like that, too, although they’re harder to do because men have more choices than women do.
As an example, my type of heroine would be a woman who fights to become an astronomer, and my hero the man who helps her.
I prefer historicals. I never was one for contemporaries because they’re too much like real life, although I read a few, mainly romantic suspense.
I do like to read about gutsy heroines, and they’re easier to do in contemporaries. But every era has its heroines, and I use the term in the sense of a woman who fights for what she wants against the prevailing expectations of her society. I like heroes like that, too, although they’re harder to do because men have more choices than women do.
As an example, my type of heroine would be a woman who fights to become an astronomer, and my hero the man who helps her.
I prefer historicals. I never was one for contemporaries because they’re too much like real life, although I read a few, mainly romantic suspense.
I do like to read about gutsy heroines, and they’re easier to do in contemporaries. But every era has its heroines, and I use the term in the sense of a woman who fights for what she wants against the prevailing expectations of her society. I like heroes like that, too, although they’re harder to do because men have more choices than women do.
As an example, my type of heroine would be a woman who fights to become an astronomer, and my hero the man who helps her.
I prefer historicals. I never was one for contemporaries because they’re too much like real life, although I read a few, mainly romantic suspense.
I do like to read about gutsy heroines, and they’re easier to do in contemporaries. But every era has its heroines, and I use the term in the sense of a woman who fights for what she wants against the prevailing expectations of her society. I like heroes like that, too, although they’re harder to do because men have more choices than women do.
As an example, my type of heroine would be a woman who fights to become an astronomer, and my hero the man who helps her.
I prefer historicals. I never was one for contemporaries because they’re too much like real life, although I read a few, mainly romantic suspense.
I do like to read about gutsy heroines, and they’re easier to do in contemporaries. But every era has its heroines, and I use the term in the sense of a woman who fights for what she wants against the prevailing expectations of her society. I like heroes like that, too, although they’re harder to do because men have more choices than women do.
As an example, my type of heroine would be a woman who fights to become an astronomer, and my hero the man who helps her.
Never too late! Time-slip novels are a pretty cool way of letting the reader relate to a character, then sneaking them in the back door to our historical world.
Never too late! Time-slip novels are a pretty cool way of letting the reader relate to a character, then sneaking them in the back door to our historical world.
Never too late! Time-slip novels are a pretty cool way of letting the reader relate to a character, then sneaking them in the back door to our historical world.
Never too late! Time-slip novels are a pretty cool way of letting the reader relate to a character, then sneaking them in the back door to our historical world.
Never too late! Time-slip novels are a pretty cool way of letting the reader relate to a character, then sneaking them in the back door to our historical world.
Woman’s power is definitely part of this discussion. I just read a blog about women authors in times past (it also applies today!) who had to use a man’s name to be taken seriously. As long as we have our historical heroines recognize the limitations of society, they can do anything!
Woman’s power is definitely part of this discussion. I just read a blog about women authors in times past (it also applies today!) who had to use a man’s name to be taken seriously. As long as we have our historical heroines recognize the limitations of society, they can do anything!
Woman’s power is definitely part of this discussion. I just read a blog about women authors in times past (it also applies today!) who had to use a man’s name to be taken seriously. As long as we have our historical heroines recognize the limitations of society, they can do anything!
Woman’s power is definitely part of this discussion. I just read a blog about women authors in times past (it also applies today!) who had to use a man’s name to be taken seriously. As long as we have our historical heroines recognize the limitations of society, they can do anything!
Woman’s power is definitely part of this discussion. I just read a blog about women authors in times past (it also applies today!) who had to use a man’s name to be taken seriously. As long as we have our historical heroines recognize the limitations of society, they can do anything!
May I just say “thank you”? Any day that includes a photo of Sean Bean as Sharpe is by definition a good day.
And yes, I love historicals because I enjoy learning a bit of history, and these novels often have history at both the macro and micro levels. The micro, the relationships, play out against the backdrop of the macro, such as the Peninsular Wars or the Industrial Revolution. It is an adventure to see how people live within the constraints established by society at a time when that society is either in transition or faces a crisis. There may not even be a crisis-in-capital letters, but as the post illuminates, perhaps it is a woman (or a man) trying to find a way in a world that does not recognize their merits or even their right to define their own lives. I do enjoy the occasional wallpaper historical, but it is the authors who bring the past to life who earn my admiration.
May I just say “thank you”? Any day that includes a photo of Sean Bean as Sharpe is by definition a good day.
And yes, I love historicals because I enjoy learning a bit of history, and these novels often have history at both the macro and micro levels. The micro, the relationships, play out against the backdrop of the macro, such as the Peninsular Wars or the Industrial Revolution. It is an adventure to see how people live within the constraints established by society at a time when that society is either in transition or faces a crisis. There may not even be a crisis-in-capital letters, but as the post illuminates, perhaps it is a woman (or a man) trying to find a way in a world that does not recognize their merits or even their right to define their own lives. I do enjoy the occasional wallpaper historical, but it is the authors who bring the past to life who earn my admiration.
May I just say “thank you”? Any day that includes a photo of Sean Bean as Sharpe is by definition a good day.
And yes, I love historicals because I enjoy learning a bit of history, and these novels often have history at both the macro and micro levels. The micro, the relationships, play out against the backdrop of the macro, such as the Peninsular Wars or the Industrial Revolution. It is an adventure to see how people live within the constraints established by society at a time when that society is either in transition or faces a crisis. There may not even be a crisis-in-capital letters, but as the post illuminates, perhaps it is a woman (or a man) trying to find a way in a world that does not recognize their merits or even their right to define their own lives. I do enjoy the occasional wallpaper historical, but it is the authors who bring the past to life who earn my admiration.
May I just say “thank you”? Any day that includes a photo of Sean Bean as Sharpe is by definition a good day.
And yes, I love historicals because I enjoy learning a bit of history, and these novels often have history at both the macro and micro levels. The micro, the relationships, play out against the backdrop of the macro, such as the Peninsular Wars or the Industrial Revolution. It is an adventure to see how people live within the constraints established by society at a time when that society is either in transition or faces a crisis. There may not even be a crisis-in-capital letters, but as the post illuminates, perhaps it is a woman (or a man) trying to find a way in a world that does not recognize their merits or even their right to define their own lives. I do enjoy the occasional wallpaper historical, but it is the authors who bring the past to life who earn my admiration.
May I just say “thank you”? Any day that includes a photo of Sean Bean as Sharpe is by definition a good day.
And yes, I love historicals because I enjoy learning a bit of history, and these novels often have history at both the macro and micro levels. The micro, the relationships, play out against the backdrop of the macro, such as the Peninsular Wars or the Industrial Revolution. It is an adventure to see how people live within the constraints established by society at a time when that society is either in transition or faces a crisis. There may not even be a crisis-in-capital letters, but as the post illuminates, perhaps it is a woman (or a man) trying to find a way in a world that does not recognize their merits or even their right to define their own lives. I do enjoy the occasional wallpaper historical, but it is the authors who bring the past to life who earn my admiration.
It seems to me that writing historical novels gives authors (at least the one’s that I like) permission to use a different kind of voice– more like that of Jane Austen.–longer sentences, etc. And I love that kind of voice and wit. I often don’t want to read contemporaries because the voice is more clipped. I often won’t read a book if I don’t like the writing style of the first page. This difference in style is less true lately than it used to be, and of course, is a big over-generalization, but it seems like the discussion above has focused on content rather than style.
It seems to me that writing historical novels gives authors (at least the one’s that I like) permission to use a different kind of voice– more like that of Jane Austen.–longer sentences, etc. And I love that kind of voice and wit. I often don’t want to read contemporaries because the voice is more clipped. I often won’t read a book if I don’t like the writing style of the first page. This difference in style is less true lately than it used to be, and of course, is a big over-generalization, but it seems like the discussion above has focused on content rather than style.
It seems to me that writing historical novels gives authors (at least the one’s that I like) permission to use a different kind of voice– more like that of Jane Austen.–longer sentences, etc. And I love that kind of voice and wit. I often don’t want to read contemporaries because the voice is more clipped. I often won’t read a book if I don’t like the writing style of the first page. This difference in style is less true lately than it used to be, and of course, is a big over-generalization, but it seems like the discussion above has focused on content rather than style.
It seems to me that writing historical novels gives authors (at least the one’s that I like) permission to use a different kind of voice– more like that of Jane Austen.–longer sentences, etc. And I love that kind of voice and wit. I often don’t want to read contemporaries because the voice is more clipped. I often won’t read a book if I don’t like the writing style of the first page. This difference in style is less true lately than it used to be, and of course, is a big over-generalization, but it seems like the discussion above has focused on content rather than style.
It seems to me that writing historical novels gives authors (at least the one’s that I like) permission to use a different kind of voice– more like that of Jane Austen.–longer sentences, etc. And I love that kind of voice and wit. I often don’t want to read contemporaries because the voice is more clipped. I often won’t read a book if I don’t like the writing style of the first page. This difference in style is less true lately than it used to be, and of course, is a big over-generalization, but it seems like the discussion above has focused on content rather than style.
I feel that if the story did not depend so much on sex then the author has to spend a lot more time on holding the attention of the reader with complex characters and elaborate plots. So many authors that I read are doing the mix so wonderfully — that is why there are so many readers of historical romances. As always the reader gets to choose those that appeal.
I feel that if the story did not depend so much on sex then the author has to spend a lot more time on holding the attention of the reader with complex characters and elaborate plots. So many authors that I read are doing the mix so wonderfully — that is why there are so many readers of historical romances. As always the reader gets to choose those that appeal.
I feel that if the story did not depend so much on sex then the author has to spend a lot more time on holding the attention of the reader with complex characters and elaborate plots. So many authors that I read are doing the mix so wonderfully — that is why there are so many readers of historical romances. As always the reader gets to choose those that appeal.
I feel that if the story did not depend so much on sex then the author has to spend a lot more time on holding the attention of the reader with complex characters and elaborate plots. So many authors that I read are doing the mix so wonderfully — that is why there are so many readers of historical romances. As always the reader gets to choose those that appeal.
I feel that if the story did not depend so much on sex then the author has to spend a lot more time on holding the attention of the reader with complex characters and elaborate plots. So many authors that I read are doing the mix so wonderfully — that is why there are so many readers of historical romances. As always the reader gets to choose those that appeal.
Arent the images just yummy? And yes, I love the big/little picture we can create in historicals!
Patricia Rice
http://patriciarice.com
Arent the images just yummy? And yes, I love the big/little picture we can create in historicals!
Patricia Rice
http://patriciarice.com
Arent the images just yummy? And yes, I love the big/little picture we can create in historicals!
Patricia Rice
http://patriciarice.com
Arent the images just yummy? And yes, I love the big/little picture we can create in historicals!
Patricia Rice
http://patriciarice.com
Arent the images just yummy? And yes, I love the big/little picture we can create in historicals!
Patricia Rice
http://patriciarice.com
Now that is an intriguing comment! I used to do a historical voice but it meant adding unnecessary clauses and using words that modern readers no longer recognize. I was often told readers needed a dictionary to read my books. So Ive been moving toward a more concise voice. But I do remember with great fondness the lush voices we used in the past.
Patricia Rice
http://patriciarice.com
Now that is an intriguing comment! I used to do a historical voice but it meant adding unnecessary clauses and using words that modern readers no longer recognize. I was often told readers needed a dictionary to read my books. So Ive been moving toward a more concise voice. But I do remember with great fondness the lush voices we used in the past.
Patricia Rice
http://patriciarice.com
Now that is an intriguing comment! I used to do a historical voice but it meant adding unnecessary clauses and using words that modern readers no longer recognize. I was often told readers needed a dictionary to read my books. So Ive been moving toward a more concise voice. But I do remember with great fondness the lush voices we used in the past.
Patricia Rice
http://patriciarice.com
Now that is an intriguing comment! I used to do a historical voice but it meant adding unnecessary clauses and using words that modern readers no longer recognize. I was often told readers needed a dictionary to read my books. So Ive been moving toward a more concise voice. But I do remember with great fondness the lush voices we used in the past.
Patricia Rice
http://patriciarice.com
Now that is an intriguing comment! I used to do a historical voice but it meant adding unnecessary clauses and using words that modern readers no longer recognize. I was often told readers needed a dictionary to read my books. So Ive been moving toward a more concise voice. But I do remember with great fondness the lush voices we used in the past.
Patricia Rice
http://patriciarice.com