Why are historical novels so enticing?

There's something intriguing about stories set in history, a fascination that touches our soul. Although basic issues of family and survival remain the same over the years, the challenges the people faced were quite different from modern times. Men and women were called to be courageous in ways that are no longer required.

We're inspired by stories about Robin Hood and William Wallace, whose skills with swords and bows were a means of defense from oppression. Every boy and many women learned how to handle such weapons. Now the art is now merely a hobby and only learned by some.

What draws readers to novels set in other time periods? The Viking era creates a sense of fear and awe in the reader because the Vikings were so menacing in their efforts to expand. The Medieval Period, full courageous kings and knights, was a time when chivalry reigned. The political and religious tension of the Tudor Era creates a fascinating background for stories. The Regency Period is enticing because the rules of society, the formal words and behaviors, fosters a romantic environment where much is forbidden and left unsaid.

But it's not just the mystery of the time period, it's also the curiosity of the reader, who desires to know what life was like for the people who lived back then. When historical details are woven through each chapter, the story's inspiration becomes much more powerful.

For my current series, The Lawmen of Clayton County, I chose the Old West, with its tough pioneers, rugged cowboys, and lawless society. The stories take place in three separate towns in the newly settled Oregon Territory during the 1850's, just after the Great Migration over the Oregon Trail.

The first story, Athena Creek, released in two volumes, was published this summer. It features a new marshal named Trace Ingram who seeks to uncover the mystery behind three murders, all of which point to the man who hired him, Charles McCrae.

Excerpt from Athena Creek:                

    “According to the billet," Trace said, "Mahaffey is wanted for stealing cattle in California, not Clayton County or the Oregon Territory. So I let him go.”                 “He’s killed several men without reason," McCrae said. "Everyone knows he’s done it.”
    Trace sharpened his tone. “Everyone but me.” McCrae took a step closer, his eyes narrowing. “My word is reliable, Ingram. You should have arrested that man.”
    “He didn’t break any laws while he was here." Trace kept his tone even. "No one has proven to me that he’s ever done so. The paper I have doesn’t state any charges of murder. I believe I did the right thing.”
    “The right thing? Criminals belong behind bars!” McCrae turned away to regain control of his temper. When he faced Trace, his expression had lost its red tinge. He even managed a smile.
    “Well, Ingram, there’s nothing we can do about it now. Let me just make one thing clear.” McCrae’s smile faded. “Next time you better think long and hard before you let a cold-blooded killer go free." ©2013 Jen Cudmore

Jen's favorite novels all contain historical settings. She first started her own manuscripts in 2007 and is now a published historical romance author. The rest of the Lawmen of Clayton County stories will be released later this year.  www.jencudmore.com