Online for Authors Episode 5-20-25

​Flickering Shadows: The Candlemaker's Journey to Freedom with Author Marj Charlier

Welcome to Online for Authors, where we dive into the fascinating world of historical fiction with Marj Charlier, an acclaimed author who brings the past to life through her captivating narratives. Today, we explore her latest novel, "The Candlemaker's Woman," delving into her research process, the story's intriguing themes, and the impact of history on her storytelling.

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Meet Marj Charlier

Marj Charlier is an award-winning author whose career spans nonfiction as a newspaper reporter and fiction, now focusing on historical fiction. Her journey into historical narratives began after a successful career in corporate finance, allowing her to pursue her true passion for storytelling. Marj's love for fiction started at a young age, though economic circumstances initially led her to a career in journalism. Throughout her reporting days and later pursuits, the allure of fiction was ever-present, underscoring a remarkable storytelling journey.

The Transition to Fiction

Marj shared how she seamlessly transitioned from nonfiction to fiction, overcoming challenges with enthusiasm. For her, writing has been a lifelong passion, even when the reporting side of her career required more outgoing interactions. She expressed the joy she found in the fiction writing process, contrasting it with the reporting challenges she faced.

Research and Inspiration for "The Candlemaker's Woman"

One key to Marj's engaging storytelling is her meticulous research process. For "The Candlemaker's Woman," she spent three years delving into medieval history. Inspired by the compelling accounts of the Rhine River crossing in 406 AD, Marj crafted a tale deeply rooted in historical events yet filled with imaginative touches. Her dedication highlights the importance of solid research in creating a credible and immersive historical world.

Themes and Surprises in "The Candlemaker's Woman"

Readers are drawn to "The Candlemaker's Woman" not only for its historical backdrop but its character-driven plot. The novel explores the lesser-known prevalence of slavery during the medieval period, a revelation that captivated Marj and significantly shaped the narrative. The protagonist, Malia, captures hearts with her resilience and ability to navigate the harsh realities of her time.

Writing Historical Fiction

Marj discussed the broad appeal of historical fiction and expressed her enthusiasm for writing stories that shed light on lesser-explored lives, particularly of women and common folk. Her fascination with different eras and commitment to authenticity drive her narratives, offering readers a fresh perspective on history.

Beyond "The Candlemaker's Woman"

Marj's impressive bibliography includes an intriguing mix of nonfiction and fiction works. Her first historical novel, "The Rebel Nun," is another testament to her ability to transform historical tidbits into gripping stories. While historical fiction currently captivates her, Marj enjoys crafting contemporary narratives as well, revealing her versatile storytelling prowess.

What's Next for Marj Charlier?

As we eagerly await Marj Charlier's next historical novel, her commitment to engaging readers with diverse narratives shines through. Her enthusiasm for writing is evident, with ideas continually flowing, whether they're historically grounded or set in contemporary backdrops.

For those fascinated by history and storytelling, Marj Charlier's works offer a gateway to explore rich narratives that intertwine fact with imagination. Her novels invite readers into worlds both familiar and distant, ensuring each reading experience is immersive and enlightening.

Keep the conversation going. Head on over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook for your chance to win a free copy of The Candlemaker's Woman. 

Purchase The Candlemaker's Woman on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4jkXu3s
Ebook: https://amzn.to/3FZ3aSr​


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