Blog
Restoring Women’s Voices through Historical Fiction: The Beecher-Tilton Scandal as Told by Elizabeth
Barbara Southard explores the Beecher-Tilton scandal, focusing on Elizabeth Tilton's perspective. Initially overlooked, Elizabeth's story reveals the gender inequalities of her time. Inspired by Elizabeth's personal letters, Southard aims to write a novel portraying her as a complex figure navigating societal constraints, highlighting her resilience and nuanced understanding of her lovers amidst public scandal.
An Interview with Jo Carthage, Author of “Monsoon Queen”
"Monsoon Queen," set in the spice markets of 1812 Tajoura, explores a unique historical moment in East African and Yemeni history. Author Jo Carthage blends her knowledge of the Middle East with imaginative storytelling to create a vivid narrative. The novel features complex relationships, including a polyamorous dynamic, and intertwines magic with historical elements. Carthage's writing process involves daily word goals and a focus on character perspectives, weaving romance, fantasy, and history into a compelling story.