Hello, dear readers!
As we inch closer to the release of “From Rebellion to Nation: The Flame of Liberty,” I am excited to share some behind-the-scenes insights into the making of this historical novel. This journey has been one of immense research, deep reflection, and creative synthesis, and I hope you find this glimpse into the process as fascinating as the final product.
The Inspiration:
The seed for “From Rebellion to Nation” was planted during a visit to the historical sites of Philadelphia, where the echoes of the past are almost palpable. Walking the same streets that revolutionaries once did, I was struck by the profound sacrifices they made and the complexities of their lives and decisions. This experience compelled me to explore the untold stories of the American Revolution—those of lesser-known figures whose lives were swept up in the tide of history.
Research Deep Dive:
The backbone of any historical novel is research, and for this project, it was extensive. I spent countless hours at libraries, poring over journals, letters, and documents from the 18th century. I consulted with historians to ensure the accuracy of events and visited museums to get a sense of the everyday artifacts of colonial American life.
Key resources included:
- Primary documents: Diaries and correspondence of the era provided invaluable insights into the language, concerns, and daily experiences of 18th-century Americans.
- Academic works: Scholarly articles and books on the Revolutionary War helped contextualize the broader political and social movements of the time.
- Visual aids: Paintings and prints from the period were crucial in visualizing settings and costumes for my characters.
Challenges and Triumphs:
One of the greatest challenges was balancing historical accuracy with narrative drive. The Revolutionary War is a well-documented period, and staying true to history while crafting a compelling story required careful plotting and character development. The triumph, however, came in those moments when the characters seemed to speak through history, their desires and dilemmas mirroring those of today, reminding us that the past is never as distant as it seems.
Character Creation:
Creating characters like Margaret and James involved weaving together historical facts with fictional elements. For instance, Margaret’s involvement in the underground networks of revolutionaries was inspired by real accounts of women who risked everything for their cause. James’s character was shaped by the stories of British soldiers who found themselves torn between duty and conscience.
A Writer’s Reflection:
This novel has been a journey back in time, but also a reflection on the enduring themes of freedom, justice, and the human spirit. Writing it has reaffirmed my belief in the power of historical fiction to illuminate our past and influence our understanding of the present.
Looking Ahead:
I am eagerly anticipating the book’s release and your thoughts on it. In the next blog post, I will share some exclusive excerpts and discuss the major themes of “From Rebellion to Nation.” Stay tuned for more, and thank you for being a part of this historical adventure.
Warm regards,
Michael J. McDermott