Authentic and Engaging Historical Narratives by Lee Swanson
Themes of Love, Duty, and Sacrifice
Acclaimed author Lee Swanson discusses crafting authentic historical fiction, creating strong female characters, and balancing suspense with historical accuracy in his medieval Europe series, focusing on the adventures of Christina Kohl.
Renowned author Lee Swanson’s journey from soldier to scholar has imbued his writing with a rich tapestry of historical insight and vivid storytelling. His novels, deeply rooted in medieval history, are celebrated for their meticulous research and captivating narratives. Swanson’s fascination with medieval Europe, nurtured during his years in Germany and England, permeates his work, offering readers an immersive journey through time.
In an exclusive interview with Reader’s House magazine, Swanson shared insights into his creative process, the challenges of blending historical accuracy with fiction, and the inspirations behind his compelling characters.
Crafting Authentic and Engaging Historical Narratives
Swanson’s acclaimed “No Man is Her Master” series introduces readers to Christina Kohl, a fiercely independent protagonist navigating the perilous waters of 14th-century Europe. Swanson explained that his writing process begins with rigorous research to ensure historical accuracy, which he then weaves into the fabric of his storytelling. “It’s essential to be aware of the facts first and then move the characters to fit the historical reality,” he noted. This meticulous approach ensures that his readers are not only entertained but also educated about the period in which his novels are set.
Lee Swanson masterfully blends meticulous historical research with captivating storytelling, creating compelling characters and thrilling plots that transport readers to medieval Europe.
Creating Strong, Unconventional Female Protagonists
The character of Christina Kohl was born out of Swanson’s desire to challenge the limitations placed upon medieval women. To give Christina the freedom to explore and defy societal norms, Swanson employed the clever device of having her assume her brother’s identity. This allowed Christina to experience life with the autonomy typically reserved for men, providing a fresh perspective on the era. “I set out to craft a female character who would not simply be defined by the men in her life,” Swanson explained, highlighting his commitment to portraying strong, independent women in his novels.
Balancing Suspense and Historical Authenticity
In his novel “Her Perilous Game,” Swanson skillfully balances historical authenticity with a suspenseful plot. Set against the backdrop of King Edward II’s campaign against Robert the Bruce, the story intertwines real historical events with Christina’s fictional adventures. Swanson’s ability to create tension and intrigue while remaining faithful to historical facts is a testament to his storytelling prowess.
Portraying Complex Historical Periods
Swanson’s latest novel, “She Serves the Realm,” delves into themes of love, duty, and sacrifice amidst the political turmoil of Edward II’s reign. One of the challenges Swanson faced was portraying historical figures, such as Piers Gaveston, in a nuanced and sympathetic light. By exploring the complex friendship between Christina and Gaveston, Swanson offers readers a fresh perspective on a figure often depicted negatively in history. “I want readers to discover that the man Christina has grown to love and admire is very different from the despicable caricature commonly depicted in history,” he remarked.
Developing Richly Drawn Characters
Swanson’s characters, drawn from the ranks of merchants and nobility, are meticulously researched and developed. He bases his characters on historical figures and personal observations, imbuing them with depth and authenticity. This approach allows his characters to resonate with readers, making their struggles and triumphs all the more compelling.
Themes of Love, Duty, and Sacrifice
“She Serves the Realm” explores Christina’s journey as she navigates her identity, love, and loyalty amidst political unrest. Swanson hopes readers will see Christina as a multifaceted character who strives to stay true to herself, despite her flaws and mistakes. “She is not infallible; she makes mistakes and sometimes suffers for them,” Swanson explained. By portraying Christina’s romantic love for another woman, Swanson underscores the universality of love and its transcendence through history.
Lee Swanson’s novels transport readers across centuries, bringing history to life through the power of fiction. His dedication to historical accuracy, combined with his talent for creating engaging, relatable characters, makes his work a must-read for fans of historical fiction. As Swanson continues to weave his intricate tapestries of history and narrative, readers can look forward to more captivating journeys through the past.
