Applying real life to your books

By Cindy Ervin Huff

There is always at least one real-life experience from my life or someone I know in every book I write. Those scenes from my past add depth and realism to my stories. The research I do for my novels add another layer of realism. Historical events, people, or documents strengthen descriptions and help me add realistic quirks and attitudes for my characters.

In my Dog Groom Love Stories series, I interviewed and spent time with my dog groomer kids and their peers to give the dogs being groomed in my shop realistic issues: frightened, funny and irrational. I learned how groomers deal with each dog and what a day in the shop would look like.

Even a scene at a dog park was based on an experience my son had. I’d done my research on the dog breeds who make appearances in my books, and I hope I’ve done them justice.

In Rescuing Her Heart, the heroine is based on someone I know who went through domestic violence. I upped the tension in my story from the true-life experience by stranding her on a ranch in the middle of nowhere. Once she was rescued physically, her heart needed a lot more work.

I love Donna Mumma’s novel Fresh Scars. It centers around two abused sisters who come together reluctantly to empty out their abusive mother’s house. Donna did lots of excellent research to bring this story to life.

Pegg Thomas’ series Forts of Refuge was set after the French and Indian war at actual forts built during that time. She read volumes written about the Pontiac Wars and the Indians attempt to regain what they lost and their attempt at taking the forts. She’s researched the customs and time-period extensively. And her More Perfect Union, post-civil war series shows the readers three Civil War veterans who deal with their disabilities and the women who look beyond them. One cameo character is based on her own ancestor.

There are so many excellent Christian fiction novels on Fiction Finder that capture real-life events and bring truths to the reader. Check those out for inspiration as you write.

Cindy Ervin Huff is a multi-published award winning author. A 2018 Selah Finalist. She has a passion to encourage other writers on their journey. When she isn’t writing she feeds her addiction to reading and enjoys her retirement with her husband of 50 plus years, Charles. Visit her at www.cindyervinhuff.com.