I Gyve Unto My Wife My Second Best Bed” – Celebrating the ‘Ordinary’ in Historical Fiction

History may be written by the victors, but the most captivating stories often lie in the forgotten corners of everyday life. While tales of monarchs and monumental discoveries dominate many historical fiction shelves, what about the beauty hidden in ordinary moments, objects, and people?

In this one-hour workshop, discover how the minutiae of daily life can transform your historical fiction from good to unforgettable. Learn to mine the rich details of the past – from household items to social customs – to create authentic worlds that feel lived-in and real. Whether you're writing about Tudor England or Victorian London, in novels or short fiction, this session will show you how to find the extraordinary within the ordinary, ensuring your stories resonate with readers long after the story ends.

Perfect for historical fiction writers at any stage, this workshop combines practical techniques with inspiring examples to help you craft stories that honor both historical accuracy and human truth.

Can't make it live? Everyone with a ticket gets the replay link after the event.

About Dreena Collins

Dreena Collins is a multi-genre author whose recently completed novel, inspired by the true story of The Guernsey Martyrs of 1556, was a top ten finalist in the prestigious Marlowe and Christie Unpublished Novel competition.

Her literary short fiction has won the Flash 500 competition and been shortlisted for The Bridport Prize, with work appearing in online publications, anthologies, and specialized platforms like FlashBack Fiction.

Dreena lives on the island of Jersey with her spouse, teenage son, and a grumpy white dog.