From Moors to Manuscript My Journey Through Historical Fiction Writing

Writing historical fiction has always been a dream of mine. My first attempt, Skulduggery, took me deep into the heart of the moors of Yorkshire in 1590. Through exhaustive research, creativity, and the invaluable feedback from readers who gave my work a chance, I embarked on a remarkable journey. While it may not have topped bestseller lists, it holds a special place in my heart as a labor of love. In this post, I will share my experience of writing Skulduggery, the challenges I faced, and the joyous process of bringing a piece of history to life.

The Moors and the Inspiration Behind Skulduggery

The moors of Yorkshire have always intrigued me. Their rugged beauty and haunting landscapes evoke a sense of adventure and mystery. When I decided to write Skulduggery, I aimed to capture the essence of life during that era. The idea of forbidden love mixed with a gripping mystery provided a rich backdrop for my story.

Haworth, Yorkshire the home of Thomas Rushworth 1590

Diving into the historical context revealed both the struggles and triumphs of the people who lived there. Life on the moors in the late 16th century was a mix of hardship and resilience. For example, during this time, the average life expectancy in England was around 35 years, influenced by disease, harsh working conditions, and limited medical care. These realities provided a fertile ground for character development and plot twists, allowing readers to walk alongside my characters and experience their joys and sorrows.

Research: A Journey Through Time

Writing historical fiction demands thorough research. I dedicated numerous hours to reading books, articles, and primary sources to portray 1590 Yorkshire accurately. I sought to understand the customs, language, and daily life of the people who called the moors home.

Skulduggery — the 2nd edition that’s fast becoming a cult classic

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my research included discovering lesser-known stories from that period. I found accounts of love, betrayal, and resilience that inspired me to weave these elements into my narrative. For instance, I came across a tale about a couple who defied family expectations to be together, a theme that resonated deeply with my own characters. The more I learned, the more I felt connected to the world I was creating.

From Rough Diamond to Cult Classic

When Skulduggery first appeared as a self-published debut, the story shone with promise but the rough edges drew mixed reactions. Some readers loved the rawness, but others found the prose unpolished and the narrative uneven. One early reviewer admitted, “I thought I'd give it a try as it’s about our locality... I found it repeated itself too often”. Others, while impressed by the research, noted it “would have benefited from a good editing.”

"Paul Rushworth-Brown's 'Skulduggery' captivates readers with its blend of history and intrigue, achieving cult status with a dedicated fanbase and recognition in prestigious publications."

Those early critiques, however, became the foundation for its rebirth. Once the novel was taken on by a major publisher and rigorously re-worked, the transformation was striking. The second edition sharpened the language, tightened the plot, and elevated the immersive detail of 16th-century Yorkshire life. Now, readers call it “so descriptive… beautiful” and “a delightful story… well researched and thoroughly enjoyable.” Another praised it as “a very impressive and readable book” that captures social history with rare authenticity.

Today, the second edition stands as vivid, cinematic, and beautifully researched — proof that even a rough diamond can become a cult classic in the right hands.

The Writing Process: A Labor of Love

Writing Skulduggery was a rewarding yet challenging experience. Some days, the words flowed effortlessly; other days, I grappled with direction. I often found myself lost in the world I was building. Yet, I embraced those moments as integral to my writing journey.

The moors of Yorkshire birth of Thomas Rushworth my Great Grandfather x10

Feedback from early readers proved to be essential in shaping the final draft. Insights from around 50 early readers helped refine the plot, develop my characters, and enhance the pacing of the story. I learned the importance of being open to criticism and using it as a tool for growth. Their perspectives often highlighted areas that needed clarification, which led me to strengthen my characters and plot arcs.

The Characters: A Reflection of the Time

The characters in Skulduggery reflect the complexities of life in 1590. I aimed to create relatable yet distinct individuals, each with unique motivations and struggles. For instance, my protagonist, a young woman torn between her love for a forbidden suitor and her family's expectations, embodies the spirit of that era.

A character shot of Agnes Rushworth from the novel Skulduggery

As I wrote, I became deeply invested in their journeys. I wanted readers to feel a connection with these characters, feeling their pain and joy as they navigated a world filled with societal pressures. The relationships between characters were crucial to conveying emotional depth, and I worked diligently to ensure that each interaction felt authentic and engaging.

The Feedback Loop: Learning from Readers

Once Skulduggery was published, I eagerly awaited reader responses. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, igniting my passion for writing even further. Many readers praised the historical accuracy and how I vividly brought the moors to life.

However, constructive criticism also came my way, which helped me grow as a writer. Some readers noted areas where the pacing lagged or character development needed further sharpening. I took these comments seriously, knowing they would assist me in my future writing projects.

The Journey Continues: What’s Next?

While Skulduggery marked my debut in historical fiction, it certainly won't be my last endeavor. This experience taught me valuable lessons about the craft of writing and connecting with readers. I am currently working on my next project, which will explore another riveting period in history.

One year on and I write Red Winter Journey which earns a nomination for the NSW Literature Award for Fiction

I aim to continue examining themes of love, mystery, and the human experience in my future works. Each story represents an opportunity to transport readers to a different time and place, and I am excited to share more of my journey with you.

Reflecting on a Personal Journey Through Time

Writing Skulduggery was more than a creative quest; it was a personal journey that allowed me to explore the past and connect with the present. The moors of Yorkshire, with their haunting beauty and rich history, will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I reflect on this journey, I am thankful for the readers who supported me and provided invaluable feedback. While Skulduggery may not be a bestseller, it stands as a testament to my passion for storytelling and historical fiction. I encourage anyone with a story to tell to embrace the journey, learn from your experiences, and keep writing.

The breathtaking landscape of the Yorkshire moors

The world of historical fiction is vast and filled with opportunities. I invite you to join me on this journey as we explore the past together, one story at a time. Thank you for being a part of my adventure!