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: 15th May, 2024
Duration: Six Weeks
Price: €170
3 places remaining
Mastering the Past: Join Our Writing Historical Fiction Course
Step into history and explore the world of historical fiction with our engaging six-week online Writing Historical Fiction course. Whether you’re an aspiring writer seeking new horizons or an experienced author ready to dive into historical storytelling, this course is your opportunity to unlock your creative potential and craft captivating historical novels or short stories.
Guided by experts and surrounded by a supportive learning environment, you’ll embark on a journey that not only hones your writing skills but also deepens your understanding of history and the human experience. Expect to meet diverse characters, explore intricately detailed settings, and unravel gripping plots as you master the art of blending fact and fiction, creating narratives that resonate with readers for generations to come.
Join our Writing Historical Fiction course today and discover a world of endless possibilities where past and present converge, and storytelling transcends time itself.
Personalised Tutor Feedback
Each participant receives personalised attention and feedback from our dedicated online tutors. Weekly written assignments and one-on-one guidance will help you stay on track and advance your skills throughout the course.
Global Accessibility and High Demand
You don’t need to be based in Ireland to enrol in our Writing Historical Fiction course. We welcome students from all around the globe, offering a unique and enriching learning experience. Due to the high demand for our courses, early registration is recommended to secure your spot.
Lifetime Access to Course Materials
Even after the course concludes, you’ll retain access to all course materials, allowing you to revisit lessons and refresh your skills as needed.
Weekly Modules and Flexible Schedule
Our course is designed to accommodate your busy lifestyle. Each week, you’ll find modules that can be completed at your own pace, featuring text lessons covering the essentials of historical fiction writing and engaging exercises. We recommend dedicating 2-3 hours per week to get the most from the course. On the course start date, our tutor will email the first module to all enrolled students.
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.
Join Us Today
Seize this incredible opportunity to refine your historical fiction writing skills, learn from the best, and create narratives that transport readers to another time and place. Enrol now and embark on your journey toward becoming a successful historical fiction author!