Tales from the Quill: My Journey into Historical Fiction

Discover the passion behind my stories and what to expect from this adventure-filled ride!

A non-fiction mind, but a fiction soul.

I've always been a bit of a paradox – a non-fiction mind with a fiction-loving soul.

So, here's the story: after wrapping up a master's degree focused on national security, I stumbled upon an incredible family discovery. Turns out, I had ancestors who fought in the Civil War! Armed with newly honed research skills (and a newfound love for crafting endnotes), I delved into their story. The result? Chicago To Appomattox is a book that paints the journey of their entire regiment.

But, as much as I adore unearthing historical facts and penning them down, something inside me was itching to venture into new territories.

Why this, why now

My journey as an author has been quite the ride, dabbling in a blend of historical fiction, westerns, and mysteries. Honestly, I couldn't tell you which section my books belong in a bookstore – they're a genre-bending mix.

In July 2023, I launched into the fiction world with The Ace's Bounty: The Barber Brothers' First Adventure. It's a Western-style adventure tale steeped in historical accuracy. Then came The Sheriff's Pursuit: A Vermilion County Mystery, a historical mystery with a Western twist, sort of a prequel but also a series starter in its own right.

Now, I'm gearing up for The War Remains: The Barber Brothers' Next Adventure, set to publish in May. But here's the thing: I always stumble upon the most fascinating historical tidbits during my research, way more than I could ever squeeze into a book. Sometimes, I wish I could drop an entire secret chapter filled with remarkable stories from our past.

And that's precisely what I plan to do with this Substack! Think of it as your exclusive backstage pass to all the incredible historical narratives that didn't make it into my books.

What kind of community are you looking to build here

Welcome to The Scribe's Saloon – it's not your average newsletter.

Let's be honest: this little corner of the internet won't be everyone's cup of tea. Some might sign up out of curiosity and then decide it's not for them. Others might skim through occasionally, and that's okay. But for you, the history buffs and lovers of tales from the 19th century, this is our spot!

Here's the deal: I'm not here to sell you books or bombard you with promotions. Nope, this is all about us, the history enthusiasts, gathering around in our virtual saloon, sharing incredible stories from an era that shaped our nation. So, pull up a chair, pour yourself a drink of choice, and let's dive into the fascinating world of 19th-century America together! 🤠📚

The specifics

Did you know what Substack was before you read this? I barely did. You might read or hear a lot about people monetizing their posts, but let me be clear: That won’t be the case here. This Substack will always be free.

I also know even the most engaged reader doesn’t want their inbox overflowing, so here’s the plan:

-3-4 a month AT MOST. (C’mon now, I’ve got a wife, kids, and a day job.)
-Never more than once a week.
-I won’t do it just to do it. Ever heard of writer’s block? I won’t spam you if I don’t have something engaging to pass along.

I aim to send along newsletters with an exciting history tidbit, story, or fact—especially as they relate to my work, an update on my writing, and valiant attempts at humor, or if not, at least suggestions on things you might enjoy reading.

If you landed here some way other than email. . . sign up now!

See y’all real soon.

---