How to Write Historical Fantasy, with A.L. Sinclair

In this episode of The Resilient Writers Radio Show, I’m joined by dark fantasy author A. L. Sinclair for a fascinating conversation about historical fantasy, feminist storytelling, creative resilience, and what it takes to keep writing when the publishing journey feels especially difficult.

A. L. is the author of The Witch Queen’s Gambit, a sharp, sensual, and subversive Anne Boleyn retelling that blends history, witchcraft, queer romance, mythology, and feminine rage. If you love stories that take familiar history and turn it in a bold new direction, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this conversation.

We talk about why Anne Boleyn remains such a compelling figure and how her story reflects the ways powerful women are still judged, misrepresented, and turned into villains. 

A. L. explains how she took the rumours and mythology surrounding Anne and transformed them into a story where the so-called villain becomes someone readers can understand and root for.

We also explore the balance between historical accuracy and creative freedom. A. L. shares how she researches the Tudor era, decides which historical details to retain, and allows the fantasy elements of the story to reshape what might have happened. It’s a helpful reminder that research should support the story rather than overwhelm it.

Our conversation also moves into writing romance and intimate scenes with purpose. A. L. talks about consent, power, pleasure, and why every scene needs to contribute to the character arc or move the story forward. Rather than adding spice simply because readers may expect it, she approaches those scenes as an important part of character development and emotional connection.

One of my favourite parts of this episode is our discussion about where stories begin. For A. L., they begin with character. She listens for the character’s voice, motivation, pain, and desire, then follows those emotional threads into the story.

We also talk honestly about rejection. A. L. received more than 200 rejections while querying one of her novels. She shares how her background in somatic healing helped her sit with the discomfort of rejection without allowing it to define her or her work.

This episode is a powerful reminder that rejection is not always a verdict on your talent. Sometimes it is information. Sometimes it is timing. Sometimes it is simply one person saying that a book is not right for them.

If you’re navigating the query trenches, revising a manuscript, or trying to protect your creative confidence, this conversation will help you approach your writing life with more courage, curiosity, and resilience.