Oct 27, 2021 Posted by Simon Rose

What’s it all about? Sources of inspiration for The Alchemist’s Portrait.

The cover illustration for The Alchemist’s Portrait was based on the Portrait of Giovanni Arnolfini and his Wife (1434) by Jan van Eyck. Another famous painting mentioned in the novel is The Laughing Cavalier by Frans Hals (1624), and the painting entitled Banquet of the Officers of the St Hadrian Civic Guard Company (c. 1627), also by Frans Hals, will give you a good impression of how people... read more

Oct 22, 2021 Posted by Simon Rose

What’s it all about? Sources of inspiration for the Shadowzone series

The Shadowzone series involves the discovery of a grim dystopian version of Earth that’s ruled by a totalitarian dictatorship called the Ministry, the threat of a deadly virus, and a race against time to save the lives of millions. Here’s a synopsis for each of the novels. Shadowzone  While watching intense flashes of lightning during a violent storm, Ben experiences mysterious and disturbing visions... read more

Oct 18, 2021 Posted by Simon Rose

Coaching and Consulting

A professional writing coach is someone with whom you can consult, ask questions and receive constructive feedback. A professional specializing in coaching and consulting acts as a guide as you build your career as a professional writer. A coach can help you conquer a stumbling block, regain momentum or make a start on a new project. I’m a member of the Calgary Association of Freelance Editors and... read more

Oct 10, 2021 Posted by Simon Rose

Learn How to Write Effective and Compelling Historical Fiction

Historical fiction combines the events of the past with characters and stories from the writer’s imagination. This course examines the art of writing historical fiction and the need to fully immerse yourself in a particular time period to make your storytelling more believable. Learn how to write effective, authentic and appealing historical fiction and how to turn your ideas into compelling stories.... read more

Aug 14, 2021 Posted by Simon Rose

When Words Collide August 14, 2021

Today, I’ll be appearing online at When Words Collide, Calgary’s exciting annual literary festival . My presentation entitled Writing Historical Fiction is at 10 am on August 14. Learn how to write an effective, authentic, and appealing story in this genre and how to fully immerse yourself in your chosen time period. Understand what defines historical fiction and different time periods, how... read more