Online for Authors Episode 1-15-26

​Romance and Recklessness: Chasing the American Dream at Gunpoint with Author Maryka Biaggio

Welcome to another episode of Online for Authors, where I delve into the captivating world of historical fiction. Today, I had the pleasure of chatting with Maryka Biaggio, author of the engaging novel "Gun Girl and the Tall Guy." Join us as we explore the depths of historical storytelling, the research processes involved, and the intriguing allure of turning real events into compelling narratives.

Listen to the Audio Version

Watch the Video Version

An Overview of "Gun Girl and the Tall Guy"
Maryka Biaggio’s "Gun Girl and the Tall Guy" transports readers back to 1924 Brooklyn, weaving the tale of a young couple's robbery spree that captivated the local newspapers and bewildered law enforcement. This narrative isn’t just about crime; it’s a reflection of societal dynamics and personal resilience. As a self-proclaimed historical fiction fan, I was thrilled to embark on this literary journey filled with thrilling escapades.

The Historical Fiction Pathway
Maryka stumbled into writing historical fiction while conducting genealogy research, which unveiled fascinating family stories. This passion transitioned into exploring the lives of others, like Celia Cooney—a character she discovered through Elizabeth Mahon's work on scandalous women. The allure of Celia’s story, her persona, and her life choices became a canvas for Maryka's imagination and thorough research.

Research: The Backbone of Historical Novels
In our conversation, Maryka emphasized the monumental role research plays in crafting historical fiction. She combed through newspapers and journals, capturing not just the events but the very essence of her characters. Maryka highlighted the joy and challenge of weaving fact with fiction, which often meant bringing fictional depth to real historical figures like police officer William Casey or enhancing the lives of Celia and Ed through creative dialogue and circumstances.

The Writer’s Journey
For aspiring authors, Maryka’s disciplined writing routine is inspiring. Committed to writing two to three hours a day, she underscores the importance of consistency and the symbiotic relationship between writing and reading. Her methodical use of tools like Scrivener and Aeon Timeline aids in structuring her research and maintaining historical accuracy while nurturing creativity.

Roots in Reality: Blending Fiction with Fact
Maryka’s works, including her latest release, reflect her fascination with real-life events, transformed with her imaginative flair. Her previous novels have explored themes of con artists, utopian communities, and even wartime spies, each story rooted in truth but enriched with fictional elements that bring them to life.

What’s Next for Maryka Biaggio?
Marya's penned several captivating novels, and she's not stopping. Upcoming books include adventures during the Civil War and a narrative involving a spiritualist’s escapade with Harry Houdini. Her commitment to exploring diverse historical themes and figures promises continual intrigue for her readers.

I invite you all to continue this dialogue by joining the Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook, where you can win a digital copy of "Gun Girl and the Tall Guy." Share what you’ve learned or found exciting from our podcast episode for a chance to engage further with Maryka’s captivating works.

Authors, readers, and history buffs alike will find her stories both informative and enthralling. Thank you, Maryka, for sharing your insights and stories. It was a delight to converse with a fellow historical fiction enthusiast and uncover the layers of storytelling that bring history to life.

Purchase a copy of Gun Girl and the Tall Guy on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3N7slpa
Kindle: https://amzn.to/49fR43f

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.