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The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers

Pivoting Genres And Writing Historical Fiction With Anna Sayburn Lane

Jul 29, 2024
Anna Sayburn Lane, an author of 1920s murder mysteries and contemporary thrillers, shares her journey through the challenges of pivoting genres. She discusses when to leave an unsuccessful series behind, the financial aspects of genre selection, and the benefits of writing to market for easier promotion. Lane also delves into the emotional highs and lows of attending author conventions, the intricacies of writing historical fiction, and the importance of rebranding and effective marketing strategies to connect with readers.
01:01:31

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • The decision to pivot genres can be crucial for authors, particularly when the financial returns on previous works are unsatisfactory.
  • Engaging with historical literature and real-life figures not only enhances storytelling but also helps create relatable characters in new genres.

Deep dives

Pivoting Genres for Success

An author discusses her decision to pivot genres after her initial series of four books failed to meet financial expectations. She discovered the thriving sub-genre of 1920s murder mysteries, which resonated with her passion for historical research and storytelling. In researching this new genre, she engaged deeply with literature from the era and drew inspiration from real-life figures, ultimately crafting characters who navigate the social changes of the period. This shift not only revitalized her creative process but also positioned her brand more effectively in a competitive market.

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