Historical fiction is a topic that many people are
talking about at the moment, especially during “The White Queen” series on the
BBC. All of a sudden there is usually an explosion of arguments – is it
accurate enough? Does the language reflect the times? Are they wearing the
right clothes, eating the right food, fighting with the right swords?
As an author, it is always a difficult balance. If I'm
honest, when writing historical fiction that is any earlier than the 1700s, the
language is not exact – but that’s because to our modern day ears, the book
would be completely incomprehensible!
“Palmeres for to seken straunge strondes, to ferne
halwes, kowthe in sondry londes…”
How many people do you think would want to pick up a book
full of language like that? Many readers don’t want to hear about digging cess
pits, picking lice, or the pungent aroma of a butchers’ lane. Historical
snobbery cannot have it both ways: historical fiction is either brutally
accurate, or palatable for the modern reader.
I try to dance the line between the two. I'm currently
finishing my Masters degree in Medieval Studies, so I know enough about my time
period to fill it with interesting and unusual facts. But I’m also a writer at
heart, and I want my reader to be able to dive in head first into the medieval
world that I create – not be put off by words they don’t understand, or graphic
descriptions. That’s the decision I’ve made, and I’ve found writing it such a
rewarding experience.
# # #
Conquests: Hearts Rule Kingdoms
England, 1069: The nation is still recovering from the Norman invasion
three years earlier - and adjusting to life under its sometimes brutal new
rulers. A young girl trembles in
the shadows of what was once her home. Avis
is homeless and penniless, and with no family left alive she is forced to
become a ward of Richard, the Norman lord who has taken her home. But when King
William decrees that Norman lords must marry Anglo-Saxon women Avis must make a
terrible choice. Either marry the
repulsive Richard or take a else chance on another Norman, Melville, a man she
has never met.
Soon she realises that survival in a time of turmoil and
war depends of putting aside the prejudices of the past. And if she can do so, kingdoms and hearts
can still be among her 'Conquests'.
'Conquests' is a brilliantly researched and involving
historical drama that is perfect for fans of Alison Weir and Philippa Gregory.
# # #
About The Author
Emily Murdoch is a
medieval historian who has worked at the Bodleian Library in Oxford
transcribing documents, and designing part of an exhibition for the Yorkshire
Museum. She has a degree in History and English, and is finishing her Masters
thesis. Emily is currently working on the sequel to “Conquests: Hearts Rule
Kingdoms”, as well as working as a script advisor,
researcher, copy writer, and conservation assistant.
Conquests: Hearts Rule Kingdoms is
and also on Goodreads
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