How to Write Historical Fiction: a masterclass with Emma Darwin & Sanjida O’Connell
Event date: 26th Nov 2025
7-8.30pm GMT 26 November 2025
A 90-minute online masterclass on writing powerful, authentic historical fiction — with an expert on historical fiction, including a Q&A and take-home handout with tips and practical exercises.
Learn how to weave research and imagination into unforgettable historical fiction.
Join Dr Emma Darwin, author of The Bruegel Boy, the prize-nominated and best selling historical novels, The Mathematics of Love and A Secret Alchemy, and the acclaimed guide Get Started in Writing Historical Fiction, together with award-winning novelist, Dr Sanjida O’Connell, author of two historical novels, The Priest and the Lily and Sugar Island for a 90-minute online masterclass.
20% discount for subscribers to our Substacks:
This Itch of Writing & Wild Writing with Sanjida
We’ll explore:
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The inspiration behind Emma’s new book, The Bruegel Boy and what it took to write a novel set in sixteenth century Holland
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What makes historical fiction resonate with modern readers
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How to balance research with storytelling
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Create authentic characters and dialogue
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Find the right voice for your period
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Avoid common pitfalls in the genre
You’ll also receive a downloadable handout of writing exercises to develop your skills further. The session will finish with a live Q&A, giving you the chance to ask your own questions about writing and publishing historical fiction.
Whether you’re just starting out or polishing your novel for submission, this session will equip you with the tools and confidence to write compelling historical fiction.
