Historical fiction lovers gathering in Devon
At the beginning of September, I had the privilege of attending the Historical Novel Society’s 2024 conference at the very historic and beautiful setting of Dartington Hall in Devon. I’ve attended many conferences during my career in magazines, but it was my first time at this one, and what a special occasion it was. There was a theme to the event – taking historical fiction from the pages of your book or manuscript to the TV, big screen or stage. I’m a long way from being in that position, but it was fascinating to hear the stories of some of those who are there, including the authors behind two long-running TV series’, Bernard Cornwell (Sharpe) and Diana Gabaldon (Outlander). Being a ‘glass half full’ person I am of course optimistic that the time will come when it’s one of my books being turned into a TV or big screen adaptation – although taking advice from everyone who spoke about this at the conference, I won’t be cracking open the Champagne until the credits are rolling on the opening show! There were so many highlights to this event, but one of my stand-out memories will be how everyone was so friendly and happy to share their own experiences – delegates and speakers, those who were starting out on their writing journeys and those who were well into theirs, as well as those who are undoubtedly at the top of their field – from the UK and much further afield. I personally met people who had travelled from the USA, Canada and Australia. There was a real sense of community, with the ‘golden thread’ linking everyone being a love of historical fiction in all of its many guises. Many, many thanks to the organising team at the Historical Novel Society. Historical fiction lovers gathering in Devon

Reflections

At the beginning of September, I had the privilege of attending the Historical Novel Society’s 2024 conference at the very historic and beautiful setting of Dartington Hall in Devon. I’ve attended many conferences during my career in magazines, but it was my first time at this one, and what a special occasion it was.

There was a theme to the event – taking historical fiction from the pages of your book or manuscript to the TV, big screen or stage. I’m a long way from being in that position, but it was fascinating to hear the stories of some of those who are there, including the authors behind two long-running TV series’, Bernard Cornwell (Sharpe) and Diana Gabaldon (Outlander). Being a ‘glass half full’ person I am of course optimistic that the time will come when it’s one of my books being turned into a TV or big screen adaptation – although taking advice from everyone who spoke about this at the conference, I won’t be cracking open the Champagne until the credits are rolling on the opening show!

There were so many highlights to this event, but one of my stand-out memories will be how everyone was so friendly and happy to share their own experiences – delegates and speakers, those who were starting out on their writing journeys and those who were well into theirs, as well as those who are undoubtedly at the top of their field – from the UK and much further afield. I personally met people who had travelled from the USA, Canada and Australia. There was a real sense of community, with the ‘golden thread’ linking everyone being a love of historical fiction in all of its many guises.

Many, many thanks to the organising team at the Historical Novel Society.

Pictured against the backdrop of the front of the great hall at Dartington, are: Bernard Cornwell; Alison Morton, Kate Quinn and Ruth Downie talking – and dressing – the Romans; Diana Gabaldon and Chris Humphreys; S. G. MacLean; and a little selfie!