Writing Crime Fiction with a Twist of History

A sense of place and time is essential in writing historical crime fiction. Placing your plot in a particular historical period can give colour, depth and authenticity to your writing.

In this workshop, Laraine will discuss the common tropes and characteristics of crime writing and will highlight the importance of research to create authentic historical crime fiction. Through discussion and brainstorming, you will learn practical strategies for creating a crime novel which successfully integrates a historical setting.

You will learn: 

· How to identify and apply the skills and techniques inherent in writing crime fiction

· How to integrate history with characterisation, plot, dialogue and setting

· What to look for in your historical research

· How to incorporate facts into a story without overburdening the reader

Laraine Stephens worked in secondary schools as the Head of Library. On retirement, Laraine decided to turn her hand to the craft of crime writing. She has a nine-book contract with Level Best Books (USA). Two of her novels were awarded Judges’ Top Picks in the ‘Best Historical’ category at the Killer Nashville Writers’ Conferences in 2024-2025.