In July 2017, Maria’s debut novel, THE LAST LOST GIRL, was published by Poolbeg Press. The book went on to be shortlisted for the Kate O’Brien Debut Award 2018 and the Annie McHale Debut Award 2018. Maria’s second novel, ON BONE BRIDGE was published in July 2018, also by Poolbeg Press. Her third novel, BAD SWEET THINGS, a Crime Thriller/Police Procedural was published in 2021.
Maria has also published a children’s book, The Little Book of Irish Saints, with Poolbeg Press, and has been teaching creative writing for several years.
Start Date: 8th January, 2025
Duration: Six Weeks
Price: £160
3 places remaining
Mastering the Past: Enrol in Our Historical Fiction Writing Course
Step into the world of historical fiction with our immersive six-week online course. Whether you’re a budding writer eager to explore new creative territories or an experienced author looking to deepen your historical storytelling, this course offers the tools, insights, and inspiration you need to bring captivating narratives to life.
Under the guidance of expert instructors and within a supportive community, you’ll sharpen your writing skills while deepening your understanding of history and its impact on storytelling. You’ll craft compelling characters, build richly detailed settings, and weave intricate plots that blend fact with fiction to create unforgettable stories. By the end, you’ll be equipped to write historical novels or short stories that resonate across generations.
Enrol in our Writing Historical Fiction course today and unlock a world where past and present converge, where storytelling transcends time, and where your creative journey begins.
Personalised Tutor Feedback
Our dedicated online tutors provide personalised attention throughout the course. With weekly written assignments and one-on-one guidance, you’ll receive tailored feedback to help you refine your skills and stay motivated.
Global Access & High Demand
No matter where you are in the world, you can join our Writing Historical Fiction course. We welcome students from across the globe, offering a rich, diverse learning experience. Due to the course’s popularity, early registration is encouraged to secure your place.
Lifetime Access to Course Materials
Once the course concludes, you’ll retain lifetime access to all course materials. This allows you to revisit lessons and refresh your skills at your own pace, whenever you need a boost of inspiration.
Weekly Modules & Flexible Learning
Designed to fit into your busy schedule, the course features weekly modules that can be completed at your own pace. Each module includes text-based lessons and engaging exercises focused on the essentials of historical fiction writing. We recommend dedicating 2-3 hours per week for optimal progress. Upon enrolment, our tutor will send you the first module to get you started.
Course Outline
Week One – Basics of Historical Fiction
We consider the building blocks of historical fiction, how to research and write your own story and what themes to include.
Week Two – Historical Characters
In the second week, we ask, what makes a good character in historical fiction? We discuss characters based on historical figures and entirely fictional ones. There is then a chance to create a character for your own story.
Week Three – Setting the Past
How do you create a historical setting? This is the primary question of week three. We use our characters to create interesting settings alongside expert advice
Week Four – Plotting the Past
In week four, we discuss how to create an exciting plot for your historical fiction. We show how to use your characters to set up and pay off important events for the best effect.
Week Five – Writing Authentic Dialogue
In the penultimate week, we question how to write authentic and compelling dialogue. We practice writing dialogue between characters and adding some to your historical fiction.
Week Six – Pitfalls of Historical Fiction
In the final week, we discuss the common mistakes beginner historical fiction writers make and how to avoid them. There is also the chance to polish your work and receive feedback on it.
Sign Up Today
Take advantage of this amazing opportunity to sharpen your historical fiction writing skills, learn from industry experts, and craft stories that immerse readers in another era. Enrol now and begin your path to becoming a successful historical fiction author!
