Rachel Huffmire's Blog

Before Snow White became Disney’s first beloved princess, she was the heroine of a much darker fairy tale recorded by the Brothers Grimm in

In February 2023, a friend and I sat down with a Hollywood producer at a cozy little bistro in Los Angeles. We had co-written a TV show, and to our absolute joy, the producer wanted to work with us. That single meeting changed the next two years of my life.

Since then, I’ve been writing and editing scripts for producers and directors in Los Angeles and New York, juggling exciting opportunities that were graciously handed to me by incredible creatives. But as the screenwriting projects kept coming, I had to make a choice.

I needed to push pause on my publishing career.

I didn’t expect that pause to last so long. But finally, in January, I felt confident that I could manage both careers simultaneously. So, February became the month of picking up the pieces—but in the best way possible. And wow, did I hit the ground running. In a single month, I...

✔ Reclaimed the rights to my audiobooks

✔ Redesigned lost cover art files

✔ Wrote a brand-new prologue for Shattered Snow

✔ Produced the audiobook for Sculpting Fables, Book 3 in The Mirror Chronicles

Whew.

So, what did I learn while basically resurrecting my publishing career? Let’s talk about it.

Reconnecting is Key

Just like in fairy tales, true friendships withstand time and distance. If you’ve been away from publishing for a while, it’s easy to feel like you’re starting over—but you’re not. The connections you made with fellow creatives, readers, and industry professionals don’t disappear just because you stepped away.

Reconnecting with the people who were part of the major milestones of my publishing career was one of the best things I did when stepping back in. But I didn’t just wait for people to notice I was back—I took intentional action to rebuild those relationships.

Get Visible on Social Media / Newsletters (and Be Proactive About It!)

The moment I hit “post” on that first Instagram picture, messages flooded in: "Welcome back!" "So excited to see you here again!" It reminded me that I was never truly alone on this journey. Whatever medium you were using to connect with your audience in the beginning, start showing up for them again.

But here’s the thing: algorithms don't always show your posts to everyone—only a small portion of your followers will see them. So instead of waiting for a computer to reconnect me with my audience, I took control.

✔ I used Gary Vee's Dollar-Eighty method—leaving meaningful comments on recent posts from my audience and fellow creatives.

✔ I scrolled through my followers list and left comments on their latest posts—an easy way to re-enter conversations.

✔ I started privately messaging friends, and within days, my feed was filled with familiar faces again, and I was having genuine conversations with bookish friends like we had never stopped chatting

Action Step: Pick 10-15 people per day—readers, authors, industry friends—and engage meaningfully. Comment, share, reply to stories. Let people know you’re back!

Reach Out Personally—Yes, People Want to Hear from You!

At first, imposter syndrome whispered that reaching out to old contacts would feel like a burden—like I was showing up after two years saying, "Hey, remember me?"

That fear? Completely unfounded.

✔ I went through tagged photos from other accounts and prioritized reconnecting with my old besties. These people got personal messages, more than just comments and replies.

✔ I checked in with past critique partners and fellow authors in my email contacts, just to catch up.

✔ I quickly realized I wasn’t a burden—people were excited to reconnect! Many responded with, "I always meant to read the next book!" or "So excited to hear from you!"

Action Steps: Make a short list of 10-20 people—past readers, reviewers, fellow authors, or industry contacts—and send them a message. Keep it simple and personal!

"Hey [name], I was thinking about you today! It’s been a while, but I wanted to check in and see how you’re doing."

Hire Other Creatives—Let People Help You Build Momentum

One of the best decisions I made? Hiring other creatives to work on new projects.

✔ I hired my audiobook narrator to start recording my next book.

✔ I had my illustrator update my cover art—instantly making my books feel fresh and exciting again. (Check out the subtle changes she made below)

✔ I joined an Instagram Reel monthly challenge that gave me daily prompts about what to post.

While I was picking up the pieces, other people were working behind the scenes—moving things forward even when I wasn’t actively doing the work myself.

Action Steps: Even if you’re not fully ready to dive back in, commission one creative project related to your books. It could be:

✔ Hiring a cover designer for a refresh

✔ Booking an editor for your next manuscript

✔ Ordering new book promo graphics

Your Story Isn’t Over—It’s Just Beginning Again

If you’ve been away from publishing—whether for months or years—you are not starting from scratch. You’re starting from experience.

Rebuilding a creative career isn’t about doing everything at once. It’s about reconnecting with your support system, taking small steps forward, and letting go of the idea that everything has to be perfect before you begin.

Fairy tales remind us that heroes don’t always feel ready when they start their journey. They take one step, then another, and suddenly, they’re no longer the person who started.

And you? You can do this.

So whether it’s hitting publish, reaching out to a reader, hiring a designer, or simply writing one new sentence today—take the step. Even if it feels small. Even if it feels like you’re just picking up broken pieces. Because before you know it, those pieces will come together into something whole, something powerful—something only you can create.

Shattered Snow first hit the shelves in January 2019. It was my debut novel—a time-traveling, fairy-tale retelling that blended historical fiction with the magic of Snow White. And now, after getting all of my rights back, I finally get to make a change that I’ve wanted to make since the very beginning.

Shattered Snow gets a brand-new prologue from Margaretha's point of view.

When I first wrote Shattered Snow, it opened with a young Margaretha von Waldeck, hearing a story about her mother sewing by the window. It was a quiet, intimate scene—one that I loved—but my editors at the time thought it started the novel off too slowly. And honestly? They had a point. This is a time-travel adventure, after all! So, we bumped Margaretha's opening to chapter 4. But over the years, one thing kept nagging at me: This book needed a stronger opening with Snow White herself.

So, to celebrate this second edition, Shattered Snow is getting a brand-new prologue! This time, we step directly into Margaretha’s world, where a chilling winter night sets the stage for her dismal fate. It’s a scene that was alluded to throughout the book, but never shown... The dismal end of her original timeline.

And because I love my readers (seriously, you guys are the best), I’m sharing the new prologue with you right here! Whether you’ve read Shattered Snow before or are just discovering it now, I hope you enjoy this new beginning.

Without further ado, here is the updated prologue of Shattered Snow…

Coudenburg Palace, Brussels, Duchy of Brabant, Holy Roman Empire24 December 1554

         

Margaretha stopped outside the dining hall door and adjusted her gown. The fitted bodice was tighter than she liked and her seamstress had insisted her low neckline was a necessity. They hadn’t considered her nerves on a night like this, or that she might prefer a dress to hide behind.

She took a deep breath, as far her bodice would allow, then stepped inside. The glow of countless candles illuminated the vast hall from the chandeliers overhead. Warm tapestries lined the walls, depicting courtly histories and epic stories. Music and chatter filled every corner. But it was the scent of spiced drinks, savory roast meats, and warm sweet bread that almost convinced Margaretha the room was welcoming.

One glance from the king, and the illusion was shattered. His eyes were narrowed, lips drawn tight, as if she had just ruined his evening. Margaretha lifted her chin and waited for an attendant to lead her to her seat. The servants placed her in the furthest reaches of the room, most certainly at His Majesty’s request.

From here, she could barely see the king’s magnificent banquet table. She didn’t have to search to feel Philip’s gaze on her. The prince of Spain didn’t attempt to hide his fascination. Margaretha’s mouth ran dry. She wished he were more discreet. The prince was ignorant of the trail of eyes that followed his gaze. Pretending not to notice him, Margaretha took her seat.

She pasted on a thin smile as a servant brought out the first course. A thin broth. She tried to keep her hand steady as she lifted her spoon.

The prince’s chamberlain cleared his throat behind her, startling her. “Lady von Waldeck, His Highness, Prince Philip, extends his warmest wishes for a joyous Christmas Eve.”

He laid a small platter covered by a handkerchief beside her. The prince’s own initials were embroidered in the corner. Margaretha’s heart stopped.

Philip had brazenly moved from staring from afar to offering her gifts in public. She felt heat rising to her cheeks. Too many eyes were on her. She couldn’t refuse his gift, could she? What happened to one who rejected a prince’s advances? What happened to their family?

With perfect posture, Margaretha slid the handkerchief off the platter, revealing a small leather-bound book. She picked it up.

“Das Buch der Liebe” by Georg Wickram.

Margaretha quickly hid the book in her lap and nodded at the chamberlain. “Please tell his Majesty that I am grateful.”

The chamberlain bowed and stepped back. Margaretha’s heart pounded. She looked up at the dais and saw the king glaring down at her.

She wished above all else that she could run.

Servants brought around the second course to her table; suckling pig with roasted apples and spiced honey. Margaretha picked around the edges of her food, taking just enough bites of apple to dissuade anyone from questioning her health. The fruit was bitter. She shifted against the hard wooden seat.

It was true, she had come to Brussels in search of a husband. Anything to get away from her stepmother’s control. And while Philip was handsome, kind, and according to the book resting on her lap, genuinely romantic, he could never be hers. The alliance between a small duchy in German and the kingdom of Spain was useless to the king. And yet the prince persisted against his father’s wishes.

She was stuck with attention from a man she couldn’t pursue, while every other suitor stayed at a distance, so as not to upset their dignitary. Perhaps she ought to return home. Her loving father would likely be thrilled for her return. But her step-mother, Katherina, had made it clear she wasn’t welcome.

Margaretha winced, feeling as if a rock had been placed inside her stomach. Curse this dress. She took another bite of apple, hoping it would help. A trickle of sweat ran down her neck. The room grew too hot. The king’s glare burned like a hot knife on her skin. She looked at him and found his gaze fixed on her. Instead of his normal, stern displeasure, he seemed smug. Satisfied. Was he happy at her discomfort?

It was growing difficult to breathe. Her heartbeat leapt, unnaturally struggling to maintain itself. She could sit here no longer.

Grasping the book in her hands, Margaretha excused herself and fled from the hall. She heard Philip call out for her, but she continued. Staggering into the corridor, a wave of dizziness rushed over her. A large mirror reached from the ceiling to the floor, making the room seem like it stretched on into eternity. Her face reflected back to her, blanched white.

Something was wrong. She couldn’t think clearly. Where was her room?

She stumbled and fell, her hands pressed against the cold marble floor.

A servant knelt beside her. “Milady. Are you alright? Someone, bring the salts!”

She felt a hand on her forehead and looked up at the mirror.

Beyond the glass, she swore she could see the face of a man staring back at her. A man with dark hair and penetrating eyes who studied her with a look of sympathy and curiosity. And as the world slowed around her, she felt herself reaching out to him. Somehow sure that he meant her no harm.

“Help me,” she asked the specter.

She fell to the floor; the bitter taste of apple was the last thing she felt before her breath grew cold on her lips.

Leave a comment and tell me what you think about this new addition to Shattered Snow! I'd love to know your thoughts!

-Rachel

When I first sat down to write Granted: Curse of the Emerald Jinn, I had no idea how much it would change my life. It wasn’t just the first book I ever wrote—it was the story that taught me how to be a writer. It shaped my voice, challenged my creativity, and brought a little bit of magic into my world. Now, years later, I’m thrilled to share that this special story is getting a fresh start with a brand-new book cover and audiobook refresh!

For those who might be new to Granted, it’s a story full of mystery, friendship, and danger—perfect for fans of YA fantasy looking for something magical to devour. Here’s a quick peek into the adventure:

Sixteen-year-old Liam Covington is the only one who sees colorful shadows following him around school. They're brightest whenever someone messes with him. That's why Liam lives by a short code: keep a low profile, stay away from the colors, and don't talk to Kenna Berlin.

But today Kenna saved his life. And he just made enemies with the biggest jock in school. And worst of all, the strange conch shell he brought home from the dunes today is making the colors brighter.

A Fresh New Look

As part of this relaunch, I teamed up with the incredibly talented Kaelin John (the original cover designer) to give the covers an update. Kaelin did an amazing job keeping the essence of the original design while breathing new life into the visuals. The updated covers capture the magic and intrigue of the story so beautifully—What do you think? Leave a comment!

Advance Review Copies Available!

To celebrate this audiobook relaunch, I have 24 Audible Advance Reviewer copies to give out! If you love YA fantasy and are interested in diving into Liam’s adventure, I’d love to have you on my review team. Simply click below to apply for a review copy.

What This Book Means to Me

While this may have been my first written novel, it was the fourth story I had published. I’ll always treasure it as the book that started my journey as an author. It taught me resilience (check out my blog post on rejection letters here), growth, and how to trust the process of storytelling. I’m so excited to share this new edition with readers, and I can’t wait to hear what you think.

Thank you so much for supporting me and my work. Whether this is your first time stepping into Liam’s world or you’re revisiting it, I hope it brings a little magic into your life, just like it did mine.

—Rachel Huffmire

(Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. This compensation does not influence our reviews. )

There's nothing more inviting than nestling into a plush armchair with a warm blanket draped over your lap and a steaming mug of cocoa sending swirls of its comforting aroma into the air. Now imagine a fairy tale retelling in the picture and you have *chefs kiss* perfection.

Winter can be a bustle of activity, but if you're like me, a quiet afternoon reading is always on my seasonal bucket list. That's where this handpicked collection of winter-themed fairy tale retellings comes in. Whether you live in a foot of snow, or you're like me with far too much sunshine for a "white Christmas", these frost-laden adventures and icy enchantments are the perfect companion to your winter reverie. Here's what you should be reading this season:

East by Edith PattouAN EAST OF THE SUN and west of the moon fairy tale retelling

Rose has always been different.

Since the day she was born, it was clear she had a special fate. So when an enormous white bear shows up one cold autumn evening and asks Rose to come away in exchange for health and prosperity for her ailing family, she agrees.

This retelling is set in gorgeous sixteenth century Scandinavia. If you're as obsessed as I am with empty castles, mysterious strangers, cursed princes, and a princess who must save their true love, then this book will be the perfect snuggle-worthy read for you.

Shattered Snow by Rachel HuffmireA SNOW WHITE FAIRY TALE RETELLING

What if the magic mirror wasn't magic. Wat if he was a time traveler? This historical retelling is fast-paced, beautifully written, and full of twists on the familiar classic tale. Based on the real life history of Margaretha von Waldeck, you'll dive deep into 16th century Germany and learn all about the true countess who is thought to be the inspiration for Grimm Brothers' fairy tale.

Wander into a tale full of snow covered woods, white stone castles, woodland cottages, handsome huntsmen, and gasp-worthy twists on this favorite fairy tale.

Followed by Frost by Charlie N. Holmbergan original fairy tale

17-year-old Smitha's life takes a drastic turn when she harshly rejects a marriage proposal from an enchanter. Angered by her rejection, he curses Smitha to become the bearer of eternal winter. Everything she touches turn to ice, and she brings a blizzard wherever she goes.

Just like classic fairy tales, this is such a creative exploration of how our hearts change our circumstances. It reminded me of the Beauty and the Beast trope, except this curse had no contingency for how it could end. All in all, this story was a beautiful new classic-style fairytale that I will absolutely be reading again.

Wintersong by S. Jae-JonesA Goblin Market Classic Novel Retelling

This is on the top of my winter TBR list.

Liesl can’t help but feel that her musical dreams and childhood fantasies are slipping away. But when her own sister is taken by the Goblin King, Liesl has no choice but to journey to the Underground to save her.

I have heard this explained as a Hades/Persephone trope (which I am all in for), and perfect for fans of Labyrinth and Iron King. I'm eager to jump in and experience this new magical world. Feel free to discover it along with me!

The Ten Thousand Doors of JanuaryBy Alix E. HarrowAn original fairy tale

There's nothing more wintery than January. This feels like a book that belongs to another time, where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur. It made me long for adventure, exploration, and the power of storytelling within myself. Here's a little bit about it:

In a sprawling mansion, January Scaller is a curiosity. As the ward of Mr. Locke, she feels like another one of his artifacts that decorates the halls. When she finds a strange book that carries the scent of other worlds, January discovers a story increasingly entwined with her own.

What's on your wintery list of favorite books? Drop a comment and I'll add them to my TBR! Happy reading!

-Rachel

In a world increasingly dominated by screens and bite-sized content, finding time to immerse yourself in a good book can sometimes feel like a luxury. But what if I told you there's a platform that combines the best of both worlds, offering captivating stories in a format that fits seamlessly into your busy life?

Enter Kindlevella, Amazon's innovative take on episodic fiction. In this blog post, we'll explore what Kindlevella is, how episodic fiction works, how to kickstart your reading journey with 200 free tokens, and how to stay up-to-date with your favorite stories.

What is Kindlevella?

Kindlevella is like your literary best friend, tailored to fit like short conversations into your life. Imagine a treasure trove of episodic stories at your fingertips, ready to transport you into different worlds, one captivating episode at a time. I'll admit, I'm quickly becoming addicted to these bite-sized adventures, ideal for squeezing in during those cozy moments right before bedtime.

How Does Episodic Fiction Work?

Episodic fiction takes storytelling to a whole new level. Instead of reading an entire novel in one go, you can savor the story one episode at a time. Each episode typically ranges from 600 to 3,000 words, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying narrative arc in a short burst.

Convenient Reading: The episodic format is incredibly convenient. You can start and finish an episode in just a few minutes, making it easy to pick up where you left off whenever you have a moment to spare. Anticipation: Episodic fiction builds anticipation as you eagerly await the next installment. It's kind of like a season of your favorite tv show that ends with a mini cliffhanger at the end of each episode, keeping you hooked and excited for what comes next. Engagement: At the end of each episode, you can like, comment, and interact with other readers, creating a sense of community and shared excitement around the story. It feels a little like being part of a book club!Getting Started with 200 Free Tokens

Now, let's talk about how you can start your Kindlevella adventure without spending a dime. Amazon offers a generous way to get started with 200 free tokens, which you can use to unlock episodes of your favorite stories. Here's how to claim your tokens:

Access Kindlevella on your computer: Visit the Kindlevella library by clicking here . Claim Your Tokens: Look toward the upper-right corner for an image of a little oval token with a key on it, next to the words "FREE Tokens." Click on it, and a pop-up box will appear with a button to claim your 200 free tokens. Explore Stories: Use your tokens to unlock episodes from a wide range of genres and authors. Find the stories that captivate you and start reading!Following Your Favorite Stories

Once you've embarked on your Kindlevella journey, it's essential to keep track of your favorite stories and stay up-to-date with their latest episodes. Here's how to do it:

Follow Stories: On the story's detail page, look for the "Follow" button. This action adds the story to your Library, making it easy to access. Receive Notifications: Ensure that you've enabled notifications for the Kindle app or website. This way, you'll be alerted when a new episode of your followed story is released. Access Your Library: To access your Library, click on the "Library" section on the Kindle Vella website. Here, you'll find all the stories you're following, making it simple to pick up where you left off. Engage with Authors and Readers: Don't hesitate to engage with the authors and fellow readers in the comments section. Share your thoughts, theories, and enthusiasm for the story. It's a fantastic way to connect with a community of passionate readers.Your First STory

If you're looking for your first read, I have a recommendation for you. "A Sky of Salt and Stars is a thrilling Little Mermaid retelling and is filled with some of my favorite tropes:

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/498d28_49887c99587d4b3b93def295469d05ef/480p/mp4/file.mp4

Here's a quick synopsis:

Adria lives beneath the roiling ocean waves in a submarine colony on the edge of the Deep. After the mysterious death of her parents, Adria dreams of expanding her horizon to a life above the surface and beneath the stars. While exploring too close to the surface, Adria discovers a golden-eyed boy named Torian slowly drowning in a submerged tomb. Saving the boy would mean betraying her colony, but Torian could also be the gateway to the life she has always wanted.

If this sounds like something you'd like to give a try, check out the vella here!

If you've been following along on my social media, you've probably heard of my newest project, "A Sky of Salt and Stars." But if this is your first introduction, hold on to your seats, because this is probably my favorite story yet!

A Sky of Salt and Stars is a YA space opera retelling of The Little Mermaid, and feels like Aurora Rising and Skyward. If you're a lover of the Lunar Chronicles... Yeah. This one is going to be for you.

Here's a synopsis:

Sixteen-year-old Adria lives beneath the roiling ocean waves in a submarine colony on the edge of the Deep. After the mysterious death of her parents, Adria dreams of expanding her horizon to a life above the water and beneath the stars. While exploring too close to the surface, Adria discovers a dark-eyed prince named Torian, slowly drowning in a broken sub. Could this enemy prince be the key to discovering world above, or will saving him betray the Deep that she loves?

Seventeen-year-old Torian awakens to the face of a beautiful Fathomer peering in through the window of his tomb. Slowly sinking into the Deep, Torian worries that the gods have come to claim his soul when he still has so much to live for. Slowly sinking deeper into the darkness, Torian does everything he can to survive, including piecing together the shadowy memory of how he got here in the first place. But as much as he hates to admit it, the beautiful enemy maiden beyond the glass might be his only hope.

Excited? Me too!

This story was in the back of my head for a full year before I could actually sit down to write it. And once my schedule finally cleared enough, I wrote the whole thing in one month! Three months later, I had it in the hands of my alpha readers. It's been so fun meeting with them weekly to go over the story and where they think it should go. Their feedback has been incredible in helping shape the story. It's been a whirlwind ride and I can' believe how this story is absolutely running on it's own momentum!

Now, where and when is this book going to appear? Well, it's a bit tricky. Right now, it's in the query trenches. That's right. It's already sitting in slush piles with agents. But I've set a strict deadline for myself, and if I don't start getting nibbles by September 29, it's going up on Kindlevella! So, starting then, you will be able to get two chapters a week. But remember if I get represented, it might be going into the traditional publishing track. Either way, this book will get into your hands and I think you're going to love it.

Do you have any questions about this story? Drop them in the comments!

-Rachel

Has Reading Always Been Easy For You?

As I prepare for my upcoming book release, it's easy to reflect on the bookish things I'm most grateful for. Of course, one of the top things on my list is READING! Which makes me wonder: What helped you learn to love reading? What was that first story you couldn't put down? That time you felt like you were living a second life through the pages?(Drop a comment below. I'd love to hear about your journey!) For some, books are immediately loveable. For others, book are like brussel sprouts and broccoli. I remember the first time I realized I could read billboards on the freeway. My six-year-old eyes darted left and right as the messages whizzed past. It was overwhelming to see so many words flying at me so, naturally, I flopped down on the back seat and cried.

"My eyes won't stop reading!" But then I found books. I could sit in a quiet room, snuggled up under a blanket, and escape into a story. By 5th grade, I was at a college reading and spelling level. Words were my thing, and I was proud of it.

But, not everyone feels warm and fuzzy about reading. When I met my husband, I was working at a college bookstore, reading fantasy novels every day behind the register. He's a pretty intelligent guy and was taking pre-med classes to prepare for his doctorate program in Optometry. On one of our dates, I asked him what his favorite book was and was shocked to hear that... He didn't read fiction. The list of books he had read comprised state-required reading like Lord of the Flies, Animal Farm, and Fahrenheit 451. We went through his elementary mementos and found that his mom had paper-clipped unclaimed dollar bills to his writing assignments! It blew my mind. How could a person not adore words the way I did? Somewhere through elementary school, there was a disconnect for my husband between academics and reading. And research shows it's a common thing for boys to experience. A scholastic study found that only 27% of boys say they read 5 days a week for fun, and 47% of boys say they have a hard time finding a book that interests them. The reality in the publishing world is that—if boys don't read, then boy books don't sell, so publishers don't print them, so boys have a hard time finding books that interest them! It's a horrible catch-22 that we've fallen into as an industry. And a major part of why I started writing...

But let me tell you about the magic of "The First Book". One day, I came home from my job at the bookstore with a new series that everyone was raving about called "The Hunger Games". "Do you want me to read out loud to you?" I asked. My husband flopped down in bed with a bowl of popcorn, ready to indulge me, knowing that he'd likely drift off to sleep from the lull of my voice. Except that we read until 3 AM. The next night we read "Catching Fire" until 2 AM.(That title's a little meta now that I think of it.) After that, we started reading bedtime stories together every night, tearing through as many sci-fi dystopian novels as we could get our hands on—Divergent, Enders Game, The Giver, The Maze Runner... Then, he started checking out a wider variety of books from the library on his own: Angels and Demons by Dan Brown. Carrie by Stephen King. Just a few months ago, he bought his own audible subscription and is listening to 48 hour long masterpieces every day on his way to work!

All it took was finding the "first book", which led him to a genre he enjoyed. Once that love of fiction was sparked, it drove him to dive in even deeper. I love that now we can both geek out about Brandon Sanderson and Six of Crows. I'll admit, after seeing my husband's love for fiction grow, I felt a little smug, thinking I could help anyone become a reader. Then I had kids...

Gifted with two reluctant reader boys, I've love how many more resources are available for these little guys. Also... Homeschool. My kids just weren't loving life, so we opted to bring them home for a season where they could literally do their reading lessons standing on their heads, or jumping on the trampoline. I know it's not their favorite, so I try to pair small doses of it with something they DO love.

I love that I could ease them into stories with graphic novels with short punchy sentences and big wacky visuals that make them laugh like in Dogman. I'm so grateful for the never-ending series of goofy scenarios in "Diary of a Wimpy Kid". I adore that I have to check up on them at night so they're not reading another chapter of "Wings of Fire" past bedtime. And now, my twelve year old just tore through the "Hunger Games" series, and it feels like I've come full circle with this amazing world of reading. Whether they discover that love at 12 or 30, I'm so grateful for the books that make that happen.

And of course, getting a sweet message from a reader that she put up this sign in her school library makes me feel like maybe my goal to help boys discover a love for stories might be working after all. (Thanks @natsbookshelves!)

Happy reading!

-Rachel

If you want to be a writer, you must learn to research.

Period.

Why? Why can't I just create worlds exclusively from my head? Shouldn't I "write what I know"? If I have to research, doesn't that mean someone else is more qualified than me to write that story?

Research can be daunting, and might open all sorts of doors to self doubt. But believe me, you can do this. I recently took a college course by ,,Ann Dee Ellis who taught me something crucial: you don’t have to be an expert to start writing about a certain topic. But, you better believe that if you’re doing it right, you’ll be an expert when you finish! Using accurate details in your writing enriches stories of any genre. Even contemporary fiction needs it! Widen your perspective on humanity by really trying to see through a different lens and you will be great.

I first recognized how important research is while reading one of my favorite novels, Timebound by,, Rysa Walker. The most riveting scene in the story involves a resourceful teenager, Kate, facing off against one of the most sinister serial killers in American history, ,,H. H. Holmes. Being closely invested in Kate’s story made me feel like I experienced the terror of Holmes’ labyrinthine Chicago World’s Fair Hotel first hand. A few weeks later I visited some friends in Washington D.C. and they brought up a thrilling nonfiction called ,,The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson. As they began to tell us the story of H. H. Holmes, I perked up. Our discussion went back and forth and I found that all of the information I read in Timebound was accurate. Rysa Walker’s extensive research enabled me to have a genuine conversation about a real-life topic. Ever since then, I seek out stories that teach me ambiguously about reality. It’s part of why I've been drawn to write about historical figures such as ,,Margaretha von Waldeck, or ,,Emma Smith.

How to get started:

First, it is important to have a base level of knowledge about the setting, culture, time period, and etiquette. So, dive into reading whatever you can get your hands on. Novels set in the era, non-fiction works, movies, journals, newspapers, etc. ​The world your characters live in affects the way they interact. And their choices directly affects the plot. For example. In Pride and Prejudice, the fact that fifteen-year-old Lydia runs away with Wickham is a scandal even by modern western culture standards. However, set in the Elizabethan era of England, it holds extra consequences. Lydia’s actions threaten the remaining Bennett sister’s chances to marry well, according to the cultural climate. And, in a book whose opening line is “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.” it’s basically the ultimate climax you can have. ​

Where to Find Sources

While the internet seems like the quickest way to access information, remember that there is a lot of misinformation out there. So, how do you find reputable sources? I like to find at least three authorities that are in agreement before I adopt web info as fact. One of my favorite tricks for finding reliable information is to go to Wikipedia (bear with me here) and look at the primary records they cite. Even though Wikipedia may not be completely reliable, their sources are often a great springboard for finding documents to investigate.

The library is a crucial place to be familiar with. Don't waste time trying to track down individual documents when your topic may have already been compiled by professionals. Make a list of information that will enable you to know what life was like for your protagonist. For my 15th century novel I searched out the lives of specific people, castles, customs, maps, oil paintings, and family trees. Aside from buying and borrowing books, I read essays on ,,google scholar and even emailed a castle in Germany to get information I couldn’t find elsewhere.

Professionals can be a wonderful resource for interview, however, it is important to have a basic knowledge of the topic before approaching them. Mary Robinette Kowal spoke on this in a recent ,,podcast. She said she studied as much as she could beforehand then came to them with prepared questions that could propel her into the deeper understanding that she truly needed.

Finally, my favorite form of research is first-hand experience. When I had the opportunity to travel to Germany with my husband two years ago, I knew at once that I wanted to write a book set in a German medieval castle. The atmosphere completely captured me. Walking up the steep stone staircases onto the wall surrounding the city, looking down on the crooked rooftops of the houses crammed inside, visiting the Christkindlmarkt, seeing shop windows filled with hanging meats... I was so enveloped in a different atmosphere and tradition, I knew I had to carry that home with me.

Using Your Research

Once you complete your basic understanding of the era, the next step is to begin a story outline. I know some writers are pantsers, but when writing historical fiction, I believe an outline is a necessity. For example, in my upcoming novel, one of my plot points included the Battle of Muhlberg affecting my protagonist. I originally wanted the scene to be set in the middle of winter, in a harsh, dark snowstorm to help set the tone for the scene. However, doing research, I found that the battle happened in April. While it isn’t unusual for there to be a random snow in April in the mountains of Germany, it definitely couldn’t be the biting, dark storm I wanted. So, I adjusted the scene to be at night, with an unusual storm that melted quickly in the days following.

Once you have a completed outline, begin writing! But remember the research doesn’t stop here. I am a believer in never hitting backspace while I write because I really want to keep the forward momentum going. However, I was constantly pausing, to do a quick google search. For example: after I wrote the sentence, “She tried the doorknob, but it was locked.” I paused and thought “This is set in 15th century Germany… Did they have doorknobs back then?” I did a google search for “when were doorknobs invented?” and found they weren’t patented until 1878 by a Mr. Dorsey (a beautifully ironic last name. And yes, I triple sourced that fact.) So, that sparked further research. What did they use instead? A latch? Yes. But could latches lock? Yes. Okay. So now I went back to my original sentence and wrote: “She tried the latch, and found it locked.” Just today, my co-writers wondered if zucchini existed in upstate New York in the early 1800's. While the indians used it, it wasn't broadly domesticated until 1920 in Italy, so we decided to play it safe and nix the inclusion of zucchini. Such a simple and even silly sounding thing, but absolutely necessary.

Another useful tool you can use is Mariam Websters' dictionary. It cites the first date a word appeared and can help you keep your language period accurate.

As you compile more and more information, try keeping a research journal. In Scrivener, there is a very useful method of keeping records straight. If you are a hard copy kind of person, it is extremely useful to have a file folder of details. It’s also useful to keep a bibliography of all the sources you used to research. Depending on the type of project you have, publishers may ask for these to publish at the back of your book.

Finally, sending your manuscript through an editor helps develop a definitive voice for the era. Editors help keep things consistent and see lost opportunities to include more enriching details. After the copy edit phase, go through a proofreader. My own experience with historical proofreading was incredible. She double checked my research and found misspelled Russian words, a regent queen who reigned five years instead of eight like I had said, corrected longitude and latitude coordinates, and many many other details.

Likewise, having your manuscript read by experts will elevate your manuscript even more. I had a beta reader on Scribophile who was in the navy. One of my lines said, “The wave swelled around him, knocking him against the reef.” She commented that swells in the ocean were the up and down motion of the water before it reached the shore. She said a more appropriate term would be heaved.

The thing you must remember, however, is that first and foremost, people and characters are what truly bring a book to life. Research and details can be inspiring and help set the scene, but without human emotions and elements, you won’t reach readers. But get both right, and you’ll completely transport them.

Happy writing!

-Rachel

It's time for me to share my favorite reads of the last three months! I've been writing like a crazy person, but I try to always be deliberate about putting in as much creativity as I'm putting out. I don't want my creative well to run dry. So, here are a few of my favorite reads that have been fueling me along.

Aurora Rising - By Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

It's no secret I'm a little obsessed with fairy tales. But one of my recent favorite authors is Amie Kaufman. She has futuristic fairy tales that are absolutely thrilling. I just read Aurora Rising, which was like Guardians of the Galaxy meets Sleeping Beauty, and it was action packed fun. The team she built was epic, and I loved how she re-invented a lot of the sleeping beauty elements in a fun and sci-fi way. I've also read her Illuminae files which was formatted SO creatively. Next, I'm dying to get my hands on a copy of "The Isle of the Gods."

eSkyward - By Brandon Sanderson

I LOVED this story! Brandon Sanderson has been a favorite author for a long time. My husband and I read Elantris together back in college, and we've been hooked ever since. I heard Sanderson explain that this story was like the boy and his dog trop, but flipped to a girl and her spaceship. It was really a lot of fun. It felt like Enders Game meets Top Gun. The characters were feisty, dynamic, and courageous. It was such a fun story and I can't wait to read book 2!

Daughter of a Pirate King - by Tricia Levenseller

This book was a lot of swashbuckling fun! Though pirates are questionable and capable of any nefarious act, I never worried for Alosa being put in a triggering situation because she was such a strong character and I had full confidence she could handle her own.

(Content breakdown: they often allude to all the horrible things pirates are capable of, but don’t go into graphic detail. So it’s honest to what the life was like without being gratuitous. There is significant violence, a sweet amount of kissing romance, and a little bit of language.)

Alosa was genuinely awesome, using her wit and intelligence to get her out of scrapes, then her strength and training if she got into rougher situations, and finally pulling out a secret weapon when things got even more intense. I was genuinely entertained by the way she handled herself and had full confidence in her. It was very refreshing to see a character who wasn’t crippled by self doubt. Who was able to look at her traumatic past and gather strength from what she had learned instead of try to push her memories into the shadows. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the next one!

These were easily my top three reads of the spring. And they definitely were part of my market research for my upcoming project, A Sky of Salt and Stars. I only hope I can give readers the same kind of experience these books offered me! Books are amazing.

What were your favorite books that you read this spring? Drop them in the comments!

Happy reading.

-Rachel