Following up on previous posts about historical fiction and non-fiction, such as The three sisters and historical fiction, History through food, and Historical cookbooks, let’s take a look at the incredible work of writing about anything related to historical events, places, and topics. As a librarian, I applaud the research behind all books, most recently, Lisa Scottoline’s thorough research on Alcoholics Anonymous and Philly. Writing historical fiction in the vein of Fiona Davis, who uses historical landmarks for her compelling dual-time narratives, requires extensive, multi-layered research.
The AI prompt
For a start, I consulted major Artificial Intelligence platforms (ChatGPT, claude.ai, and Copilot) to advise aspiring authors what kind of research it would take to write a historical novel. The prompt was: What kind of research should be done for writing historical fiction like Fiona Davis’s books? The answers, organized around topics in bullet points presented overwhelming lists of insurmountable research to be conducted in libraries and archives. Job security for librarians and archivists – thanks, AI.
Completely missing was the logistics – the challenges of how to conduct, organize, and present the research, how to overcome roadblocks, and the overall process of historical research, never linear and never offering instant gratification.
The three AI-generated answers listed at the end inspired me to share some thoughts and advice from the perspective of the librarian-archivist, who curates, preserves, and digitizes such resources; in addition to the benefits of using them to compile historical bibliographies of prominent scholars in alcohol studies.
Start doing your homework
Obviously, authors should first do their homework and research the time period and the physical locations they plan to write about. Most big cities (and many small towns) preserve their past one way or another. The local historical society, museums, churches, and government archives hide valuable location-related documents in any given time period. In my experience, a local archivist or historian can become an author’s best friend, sharing the respect and mutual interest of promoting the collection.
These archives would be the best source to locate so-called “primary resources.” The definition of a primary resource is different in the various disciplines. A tweet or social media post might qualify in communication studies; a document, recording, video or other artifact that is created by an advocacy organization also counts as a primary resource.
For historical content, the researcher may need to stick with dusty-musty paper: all those handwritten, mimeographed, or printed documents in various preservation conditions. Luckily, many archives also offer the convenience of digitized copies through their repositories. Again, when in doubt, ask the librarian or archivist! We are intimately familiar with our collections and very willing to point researchers in the right direction.
Expect the unorthodox
Historical research is a non-linear process. When you discover a document (a primary resource) and want to find more about the context, you will want to put your hands on anything related to the topic, including similar documents, books, articles, letters, drafts, and notes.
Here’s when so-called Finding Aids come to play. Created by archivists well-versed in a particular topic, a good finding aid provides a lot more than just the details of the collection. For example, structured finding aids also contain a biographical sketch (if your research is tied to a person), in addition to the extensive content, scope notes and arrangements of the collection. We are talking about a real biography written by the processing archivist who best knows the collection! Add to that the descriptions of the individual boxes – not just as a short summary, but by folders – the author might have just hit the jackpot in a single archive.
Language matters
Plowing through documents will give an idea of the language used in a particular time period. You may want to take that lead for plot and character development, if applicable. Any first-hand account, such as correspondence or audio recording that reveal more than just the facts can be used to add the flavor of genuine emotions and personal perspectives crafted in the period-appropriate language. Photographs not only provide insight to the era and location, but also to what exactly was meant by a term at that time.
The verdict
Stay tuned for the next post by the librarian, who actually researched and published historical non-fiction and already gave a sneak peek into her research methods in a Books We Read interview on Historic Recipes and Stories from the Gilded Age.
Advice from AI
See below AI responses to the prompt What kind of research should be done for writing historical fiction like Fiona Davis’s books?
Advice from Claude.ai
Researching for historical fiction in the style of Fiona Davis requires a multi-layered approach that balances historical accuracy with compelling storytelling. Davis is known for her novels centered around iconic New York City landmarks and their histories, with dual timeline narratives.
Here’s what effective research should include:
Location-Based Research
- Landmark History: Research the complete history of your chosen landmark or building, including architectural styles, original purpose, and changes over time
- City Evolution: Study how the surrounding neighborhood and city evolved during your chosen time periods
- Physical Spaces: Understand how people moved through and used these spaces differently in various eras
Period-Specific Details
- Social Customs: Research etiquette, social norms, and class structures of your chosen era
- Fashion and Appearance: Study clothing styles, beauty standards, and personal grooming practices
- Language Patterns: Research period-appropriate dialogue, slang, and communication styles
- Technology and Daily Life: Understand what technologies were available and how people accomplished everyday tasks
Historical Context
- Major Events: Research significant historical events that would affect your characters
- Social Movements: Understand contemporaneous social movements that might influence your characters
- Economic Conditions: Research the economic landscape that would shape your characters’ opportunities
Character Research
- Occupational Details: If your characters have specific professions, research those professions thoroughly
- Demographics: Study the experiences of people from various backgrounds during your chosen time periods
- Historical Figures: Consider which real historical figures might intersect with your fictional characters
Research Methods
- Primary Sources: Diaries, letters, newspapers, and photographs from the era
- Archival Research: Visit libraries, historical societies, and archives
- Site Visits: Tour relevant landmarks, museums, and neighborhoods
- Expert Consultations: Speak with historians, architecture experts, or people with knowledge of your specific subject
- Oral Histories: For more recent historical fiction, find interviews or accounts from people who lived during that time
Advice from Copilot
Writing historical fiction like Fiona Davis’s novels involves thorough and meticulous research to ensure accuracy and authenticity. Here are some key research steps you can take:
- Identify the Time Period and Setting: Determine the specific era and location where your story will take place. This helps narrow down the scope of your research.
- Primary and Secondary Sources: Utilize primary sources such as letters, diaries, newspapers, and photographs from the time period. Secondary sources like history books, scholarly articles, and documentaries can provide context and analysis.
- Expert Interviews: Reach out to historians, curators, and other experts in the field. Fiona Davis often consults with curators, technicians, and conservators to gather detailed information
- Site Visits: If possible, visit the locations where your story is set. Fiona Davis visited Egypt to gather firsthand experience for her novel “The Stolen Queen”
- Cultural and Social Context: Understand the social norms, fashion, language, and daily life of the era. This helps create a vivid and believable world for your characters.
- Historical Events and Figures: Research significant events and figures of the time. Even if your characters are fictional, grounding them in real historical events can add depth to your story.
- Author’s Notes and Bibliographies: Many historical fiction authors, including Fiona Davis, include author’s notes and bibliographies in their books. These can provide insights into their research process and suggest further reading.
- Attention to Detail: Pay attention to small details that can make your story more authentic, such as the architecture, technology, and food of the time.
By following these steps, you can create a rich and immersive historical fiction narrative that resonates with readers.
Advice from ChatGPT
Writing historical fiction like Fiona Davis’s novels requires a blend of meticulous research, immersive storytelling, and authentic period details. Here’s a structured guide to the types of research needed for such a project:
1. Historical Context and Timeline
– **Key Events:** Identify major historical events that shape your story’s timeframe. Consider wars, economic shifts, cultural movements, etc.
– **Social Climate:** Research societal norms, political ideologies, and class structures of the era.
– **Daily Life:** Understand what people ate, how they dressed, their routines, and common slang.
**Example:** Fiona Davis’s *The Lions of Fifth Avenue* explores 1910s New York alongside 1990s archival work, requiring knowledge of both eras’ social dynamics.
2. Architectural and Geographical Research
– **Landmarks and Buildings:** Study iconic structures, homes, or neighborhoods that play a role in your story.
– **Maps and City Layouts:** Old maps, blueprints, and photographs provide insight into how areas have changed over time.
– **Interior Design:** Details like furniture, lighting, and décor add authenticity.
**Example:** *The Address* uses detailed research about The Dakota building in Manhattan.
3. Primary Sources for Authenticity**
– **Newspapers and Magazines:** Periodicals from the time provide language patterns, fashion trends, and public opinion.
– **Diaries, Letters, and Memoirs:** First-hand accounts reveal personal perspectives and emotions.
– **Photographs and Visual Art:** Offer visual references for clothing, hairstyles, and settings.
**Tip:** Digital archives like the Library of Congress, Chronicling America, or Europeana are invaluable.
4. Cultural and Artistic References
– **Music, Theatre, and Film:** Explore what was popular in entertainment to capture cultural moments.
– **Books and Literature:** Knowing what people read helps inform dialogue, beliefs, and social norms.
**Example:** Fiona Davis often weaves cultural references into her characters’ lives to enhance realism.
5. Fashion and Material Culture
– **Clothing Research:** Study period garments, accessories, and fabrics.
– **Brands and Products:** Historical advertisements reveal what people bought and valued.
**Example:** *The Dollhouse* explores 1950s fashion through its focus on Barbizon Hotel residents.
6. Language and Dialogue
– **Colloquialisms and Slang:** Understand how language evolved across generations.
– **Speech Patterns:** Avoid modern phrasing in period-accurate dialogue.
7. Historical Figures and Influences
– **Prominent People:** Even if your characters are fictional, real historical figures can influence events.
– **Biographies and Documentaries:** Offer insight into influential personalities of the time.
8. Specialized Knowledge
– Depending on your story’s themes, you may need expertise in:
– **Medicine** (for wartime or pandemic narratives)
– **Architecture** (for restoration-focused plots)
– **Art and Design** (for stories about museums or artists)
9. Sensory Research
– **Sights, Sounds, and Smells:** Memoirs and travelogues can help you describe immersive sensory details.
10. Immersive Experiences
– **Visit Historical Sites:** Walking the same streets as your characters can deepen your understanding.
– **Reenactments and Museums:** These can provide hands-on experiences with period-specific objects.
Research Tools & Resources
– **Online Archives:** JSTOR, HathiTrust, and Project Gutenberg.
– **Library Collections:** Specialized archives in university libraries can offer valuable insights.
– **Interviews:** Conversations with historians or locals can reveal lesser-known details.
Final Tip:
Blend historical accuracy with compelling storytelling. Fiona Davis excels at layering rich detail without overwhelming the plot — aim for immersive yet natural integration of research into your narrative.