Literary Spotlight: William Dietrich

William Dietrich

William Dietrich is a Pulitzer Prize winning- journalist whose historical fiction has sold in 15 languages. His latest novel is The Rosetta Key.

Q: Journalism keeps you disciplined. How important is it for writers to exercise discipline in meeting deadlines for each consecutive draft/revision?

A: The old saying that writing is 10 percent inspiration and 90 percent perspiration is pretty much true. Journalism, by not tolerating writers block and providing frequent deadlines, can be a good training ground for the necessary, “it’s-8 a.m.-and-time-to-be-in-front-of-the-computer” discipline.

Q: How do you choose the specific era, landscape or figure to write about?

A: I believe what fascinates me will fascinate readers. What I really look for in history is what makes the basis of a good story, which always includes colorful characters and meaningful conflict.

Q: Describe the research that goes into preparing to write a historical novel.

A: I average about 50 nonfiction books per novel, mined first for a historical overview and then for the kind of detail that brings a story alive. I try to travel to the location of the story. Sometimes I can find experts willing to help. Maps, books on local plants and animals, weather tables and technical information on uniforms, guns or food are all useful.

Q: How can writers channel their passion into an interesting novel?

A: The reader can’t have fun unless the writer is having fun, and that means writing about what you’re interested in and care about. It’s important to remember, however, that the facts and the passion must serve the story.

Carlotta Holton is the author of Salem Pact and Touching The Dead, and is a member of the National Federation of Press Women and an affiliate member of the Horror Writers Association.

Carlotta Holton has just received her second award for Touching the Dead from the National Federation of Press Women Communications Contest. Click here to purchase the book.