Online for Authors Episode 6-30-26

​History’s Forgotten Medium: The Woman Who Took on Harry Houdini with Author Maryka Biaggio

Welcome to Online for Authors, where we dive into the minds of compelling authors and uncover the stories behind their stories. Today, I’m thrilled to share my conversation with Maryka Biaggio, the brilliant author behind "Margery and Me." If you're passionate about historical fiction, this is an interview you won't want to miss.

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An Introduction to "Margery and Me"
In "Margery and Me," Maryka crafts a narrative based on the true story of a psychic from 1920s Boston who clashed with the legendary Harry Houdini. It’s a tale of intrigue and historical depth, promising readers an immersive journey back in time. But how did Maryka bring such an obscure piece of history to life?

Unearthing Overlooked Histories
Maryka shared her passion for bringing forgotten stories from history into the present. Her journey began with genealogy research, uncovering fascinating family histories that begged to be retold. This curiosity led her to Margery Crandon, a name not commonly found in history books but rich with narrative potential.

Margery’s Story and Spiritualism’s Rise
Maryka’s discovery of Margery was sparked by a non-fiction book gifted by her editor, "The Witch of Lime Street," detailing the spiritualism craze of the early 20th century. This period, marked by a cultural fascination with contacting the dead, resonated with people emerging from the tragedies of World War I and the influenza epidemic.

Balancing Fact and Fiction
Writing historical fiction involves a delicate balance. Maryka carefully crafts her narratives to remain faithful to the historical record while weaving engaging fictional elements, especially in dialogue and character development. She even includes author's notes to clarify any creative liberties taken, respecting both history and the reader's curiosity.

The Unique Perspective in "Margery and Me"
One intriguing aspect of "Margery and Me" is its narrative perspective—from Margery's deceased brother! This approach adds a mystical layer and keeps readers questioning the relationship dynamics throughout the story.

Research and Realism in Historical Fiction
Maryka’s meticulous research ensures her novels convey a genuine sense of historical context. Books and biographies on significant figures of the era, like Harry Houdini, helped flesh out the cultural backdrop against which Margery’s story unfolds.

What Lies Ahead for Maryka
Maryka isn’t slowing down. Her next project is a collaborative novel about medieval verses and church corruption, steeped in the tumultuous history of the time. It promises to be another intriguing journey through the pages of history.

As lovers of historical fiction, we walk away from "Margery and Me" contemplating our beliefs and what shapes them. This novel not only entertains but challenges our perceptions of reality and mythology. So grab a copy, lose yourself in its pages, and if you enjoy it, leave a review—it’s the best way to support authors and keep these vital stories alive.

Thank you for joining me on this literary exploration. Here’s to many more journeys into the unseen corners of history with talented storytellers like Maryka Biaggio.

Purchase Margery and Me on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4djIKAD
Ebook: https://amzn.to/48PTu8n

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