Shakespeare Fans discussion

William Shakespeare was caught up in a real-life drama of espionage, false identities, and finally murder. The victim was Christopher Marlowe, Shakespeare's one and only rival. Follow the bizarre facts surrounding the world's greatest writer.

Sounds like fun!

When did you write this one? Are you able to share some of your writing experiences with us? Did you travel to do research or use your library? What was the most difficult part about writing and the most fun about writing it?

The Masque of William Shakespeare came about by accident. I was doing research on espionage at the Harold Washington Library Center in Chicago and happened upon a reference to Elizabethan intrigue and spycraft. When I read a reference to Christopher Marlowe, I followed that up and dug a little deeper. What I found was fascinating.

I had intended to write a magazine article on this subject, so I wrote what is now TMoWS. No mag publisher wanted to buy the piece, most saying it was far too long (meaning too expensive). Some did offer to buy it if I cut it down. I just felt this story deserved the extra length to tell it properly, so I abandoned the magazine route and published this short book.

(Thanks for your interest, Candy)

Very fun. Are you a writer or was this anew passion?

Candy,

For many years, I was a systems software engineer, which is really a glorified writer, especially when working for a defense contractor. Along the way I wrote articles for magazines, even a few for supermarket tabloids.

Today, I write for a technology news agency. Between assignments I found time to publish a mystery-thriller, and I'm just about done with the sequel with plans for a prequel.

So I suppose it is a passion (often a burden) but it's certainly not new.

All the best,

Don

That's really cool....and I love hearing about people's work and life.

Thanks for sharing this side of yourself!

I'm a little late, but thanks for any interest at all.