29-Writing Historical Fiction in a Changing Publishing Industry, interviewing Alison Stuart

Show notes
The conversation delves into the challenges of sustaining a long-term writing career, the transition to indie writing, the financial realities of publishing, the persistence and joy of writing, balancing writing with work, and the allure of historical fiction and costumes. The conversation delves into the challenges of writing historical fiction, the impact of historical accuracy, and readers' preference for escapism. Alison Stuart shares insights on the decline of historical romance, the influence of education on historical interest, and the changing reading patterns. The discussion also explores the impact of feminism on historical romance, the challenges of historical representation, and the perception of historical fiction by readers. Additionally, the conversation touches on the balance between historical realism and fantasy, the writing of uncomfortable truths, and the transition to a new series. Finally, Alison provides advice for writers, emphasizing the importance of learning the craft and seeking professional editing.

Takeaways

• Long-term writing career challenges
• Balancing writing with a full-time job Historical fiction challenges
• Impact of historical accuracy
• Readers' preference for escapism

Chapters

• 00:00 The Reality of a Writing Career
• 05:54 Traditional vs. Indie Publishing
• 11:08 Advances and Royalties
• 20:00 Balancing Writing and Work
• 28:47 Historical Fiction and Costumes
• 34:11 Impact of Education on Historical Interest
• 40:00 Impact of Feminism on Historical Romance
• 45:46 Historical Realism vs. Fantasy
• 53:31 Transition to New Series

​Connect with Alison Stuart
Alison Stuart is an Australian author of historical fiction whose work spans centuries—from medieval England to colonial Australia. Her novels dig into power, politics, and the personal cost of history, but what stands out is her persistence. This is someone who built a writing career alongside a full professional life, adapted to a changing publishing landscape, and kept going when plenty of people would have quietly stopped.
​
Website: https://www.alisonstuart.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alison_stuart14/