Tiffany Amber Stockton
Welcome Tiffany Amber Stockton, from Colorado Springs, author of Patterns and Progress, Hearts and Harvest, Copper and Candles and more! Liberty’s Promise, a repackaging of her three historical Delaware novels: Promises, Promises; Quills & Promises; Deceptive Promises, released last month. Her eighth book, will release in December 2010. Visit her website here to see all her works!
When did you first start writing?
“I’ve been writing all my life, but professionally? That began in college, about 15 years ago.”
Who are your major writing influences?
“Tracie Peterson, Linda Windsor, Tamera Alexander.”
What is your favorite historical era? What draws you to that era?
“Mid to late 1800’s, and I love the pioneer mentality, the hope, the strength, the quest for adventure that filled the hearts and minds of so many who struggled to survive and live during those times.”
What do you enjoy most about writing historical fiction?
“I have a passion for history and writing it how it really was, as opposed to what the schools are attempting to teach these days. It hurts to see more and more people each day who are not learning or discovering the richness and beauty in our country’s history. There’s that old saying, ‘Those who don’t know history are doomed to repeat it.’ And it’s so true. I see it happening with our country, and it saddens me. So, my passion has become my inspiration for writing. I want to write the stories of the people who lived the history we have today.”
What resources helped you the most in your research?
“Depending upon where my stories are set, the historical archives or museums are worth their weight in gold. Curators become my best friends while I’m writing a book. I also love the Writer’s Guide to Everyday Life series, and own each one for the time periods I cover in my books. Outside of that, I use the Internet, and when I can, I visit the places to get a feel for the area. If I still need more, I post to other writing friends for research help, and they always come through.”
Why do you think accuracy so important in historical fiction?
“I stated one reason above in what I enjoy most about writing it, but I believe we owe it to those who have gone before us to be true to them and honor their memory or the legacy they left behind. If facts and details are left out or the truth is blurred, it cheapens the impact of the story and devalues everything we can glean from history.”
Check back on Monday to find out more about Tiffany’s road to publication and her advice for newbie authors!
Nicole, thanks so much for having me here. I’ve promoted it on Twitter and Facebook, as well as my blog. I’ll email the 3 email loops later tonight or tomorrow. Hope to drive some new traffic your way. It’s a true honor and pleasure to be here for a 2-day interview and spotlight.
Be blessed!
Tiff (Amber)
Great interview, Tiff! I look forward to the rest of the interview. I love what you said about historical accuracy. May I quote you on that?
Nicole, nice blog!!
Thank you, Tiffany – I appreciate you being a guest and helping promote the blog!
Carla, thank you for stopping by!
I’m excited about the second part of the interview – Tiffany has so much good advice! I will also have another author interview coming soon, Jillian Kent!
Carla, you are free to quote me and use what I’ve said as you need. Thanks for asking and for dropping by.