I don’t know about you but I really love the idea of real-life figures being written into fiction. For me these characters add a touch of authenticity but at the same time invites the readers to imagine what might have been. In my upcoming novella, In 5 Days' Time, I explore an "almost" love story inspired by Mona Baptiste, a Trinidadian singer who arrived in England on the Empire Windrush in 1948.
Mona also plays a fleeting yet pivotal role in my forthcoming (June 2025) novel Wherever You Will Go, where she shares a brief meeting with the male protagonist. While crafting this novella, I’ve immersed myself in the era, breathing life into Mona's story and imagining the emotions and relationships that could have existed alongside her known accomplishments.
This has led me to research the true facts so that I could blend it into the story. I was investigating all kinds of things from the cost of a bag of fish and chips to 1940s fashion, especially for famous female singers of the time. It’s been intriguing.
That said, using real-life figures in fiction has been a bit of a balancing act of research, respect, and creativity. Writers who also try to breath life into fiction with real life characters must delve into historical contexts to ground their stories. That way we can add a touch of plausibility while allowing our imaginations to fill in the gaps. I will certainly consider this again for future books.
My upcoming books are in the Women’s Historical Fiction genre where writing in this way can cry out for making real-life characters take centre stage. Here are some standout examples:
Women's Historical Fiction: Where Fact Meets Fiction
The Paris Wife by Paula McLainThis novel reimagines the life of Hadley Richardson, Ernest Hemingway's first wife. McLain explores their tempestuous marriage, set against the backdrop of 1920s Paris. Their world comes alive with notable literary figures like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Gertrude Stein. The story offers a poignant look at love, ambition, and loss.
The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa GregoryMade into a film starring Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson, this novel delves into the lives of Anne and Mary Boleyn, sisters entangled in King Henry VIII's court. Gregory skilfully interweaves historical fact with speculative fiction, presenting a richly imagined view of the Tudor era.
The Aviator’s Wife by Melanie BenjaminThis novel follows Anne Morrow Lindbergh, wife of famed aviator Charles Lindbergh. Benjamin explores Anne's inner life, from her role as a pioneering aviator to the challenges of living in the shadow of her husband's fame. It's a touching portrayal of resilience and identity.
Why Use Real-Life Characters?
Using historical figures in fiction allows readers to connect with the story on a deeper level. They bring with them a pre-existing intrigue, which adds layers of complexity. As a writer, the challenge lies in weaving their real-world accomplishments and struggles with your imagined narrative.
In In 5 Days' Time, Mona Baptiste’s life serves as the foundation for exploring themes of ambition, belonging, and fleeting connections. Her real-life achievements in music and her presence in post-Windrush England create a rich tapestry for this "almost" love story.
Why I’m Obsessed With the 1940s
There’s something captivating about the post-war era: the resilience of people rebuilding their lives, the vibrant cultural shifts, and the stories of migration and change. This is the world Mona Baptiste inhabited—a Trinidadian singer making her mark in a rapidly changing England. This fascination has seeped into my writing, from In 5 Days' Time to Wherever You Will Go.
Share Your Thoughts
Do you enjoy stories that weave in real-life characters? Have you read any novels or watched films that bring historical figures to life? Let me know in the comments below!
In case you found this post in a random way and don’t know me, Hello, my name is Fran and I’m an author. Discover more about me personally and my women's historical and contemporary fiction novels when you join my readers' community! Click on the link below to receive a free short story along with a monthly newsletter filled with exciting updates and exclusive content.
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