Online for Authors Episode 7-22-25

​From Pirates to Popes: The Wild Journey Behind a Sweeping Historical Epic with Author Kent Merrell

Welcome to the world of Kent Merrell, a talented author who seamlessly blends history and fiction to create captivating narratives. As the host of the podcast "Online for Authors," I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Kent about his novel "The Conquest of Liberty" and his journey as an author. This blog post is a deep dive into that conversation, aimed at providing readers with insights into Kent's writing process, inspirations, and what they can expect when delving into his novels.

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The Journey of Writing Historical Fiction

When opening the pages of "The Conquest of Liberty," readers are immediately transported to the beginning of the Reformation, with all its complexities and conflicts. Kent Merrell’s storytelling brings history to life, showing us how much we might have missed in high school history classes. The novel, the first in a series of four, explores the conquest required for mankind to achieve the freedom we enjoy today.

Kent’s initial intention was to write about the conquest of the Inca Empire—a straightforward story of a conquistador rescuing an Inca princess. However, his research led him on a different path. Unable to find an honorable conquistador in history, he was drawn deeper into the complexities of the 1500s, eventually deciding to explore the larger struggle for freedom across multiple countries.

Inspiration and Research

Kent’s writing journey began with an unexpected pivot from a business book to historical fiction about pirates. This shift was encouraged by a friend who recognized the potential in a small story embedded within his business manuscript. This unexpected turn highlights the unpredictable nature of the creative process.

Research plays a critical role in Kent’s writing. His experiences working in and visiting South America provided him with firsthand knowledge of the culture and terrain. Extensive research on historical figures and locations enriched his narratives, bringing authenticity to the adventures that unfold in his books. For instance, while trying to transport a character from Spain to Italy in a compelling way, Kent discovered a real-life pirate, which inspired an exciting storyline.

Bringing Characters to Life

Kent’s character development is another compelling aspect of his novels. His favorite characters range from fictional creations to real historical figures. One of his cherished characters is Halal, an Arab Moore in Spain, who brought unexpected charm to the narrative. Another standout is the real historical figure Vasco Núñez de Balboa, whose admirable qualities captivated Kent’s imagination.

Writing Process and Philosophies

Kent is a classic "pantser," preferring to write without extensive plotting. This approach allows him to explore the story as he goes, discovering new directions along the way. Despite the challenges this method can present, such as uncertainty about how a story will conclude, Kent embraces this creative spontaneity.

He acknowledges the importance of the editing process, highlighting how a good editor can transform a manuscript, making necessary adjustments for coherence and impact.

Current and Future Projects

Kent's writing doesn't stop with historical fiction. He is currently working on multiple projects, including a memoir, a religious book, a leadership guide, and additional historical fiction works. His diverse interests reflect a broad curiosity about life and storytelling.

One unique project is his leadership book titled "Leadership Cookies," which presents leadership principles through the metaphor of baking cookies. This innovative approach promises to be both informative and entertaining.

Kent Merrell’s novels offer more than just stories; they invite readers to consider the historical contexts that have shaped our modern world. Through his research and creativity, he challenges us to appreciate the fragility and significance of liberty.

If you want to keep this book conversation going, head on over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook where you will have the chance to win a free copy of The Conquest of Liberty.

Thank you for joining me on this exploration of Kent Merrell’s literary world. I hope you find his insights as enchanting as I did, encouraging you to explore the rich narratives he has crafted.

Purchase The Conquest of Liberty on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3HqCg6A
Ebook: https://amzn.to/43ZaOFQ


*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.