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In a world full of stories, history bards play a vital role in capturing our attention and reconnecting us with our past. These storytellers have a unique talent for bringing history to life, helping us understand who we are today. In this exclusive interview, we explore the fascinating thoughts of author Catherine Hughes. Her engaging narratives resonate with history fans worldwide. Join us as we uncover the rich stories crafted by this talented writer.
What would you trade for love? Catherine Hughes' In Silence Cries the Heart is a spellbinding journey that bridges centuries. It weaves the modern tale of Caitlyn, an American schoolteacher, with the tragic 17th-century romance of Donal Donn, a daring poet-thief, and Mary McElroy, a laird's spirited daughter. As Caitlyn unravels the haunting mystery of their forbidden love during her visit to Scotland's Undlay Castle, she is transported into their world through vivid dreams and mystical encounters.
The Essence of a History Bard - "In Silence Cries the Heart"
Catherine Hughes embodies the spirit of a history bard. Through her vibrant storytelling, she breathes life into forgotten events. But what defines a history bard in today's world? Essentially, a history bard does more than just recount events. They contextualise historical facts to make them relevant today. For example, Hughes often ties historical events to modern issues, like how the decisions made in the past affect current societal challenges, such as societal inequity and forbidden love.
Hughes believes in the power of storytelling as a learning tool. "History isn't just dates and facts; it's the narrative that binds us together," she explains. This passion drives her work, and she aims to make history relatable for everyone.
"In Silence Cries the Heart" was recently named as a Finalist in Fiction-Romance for the American Writing Awards, Honorable Mention in Historical-Romance for the Coffee Pot Book Club Awards, and Honorable Mention in General Fiction for the New England Book Festival Awards. In addition, the Historical Fiction Company gave it a five-star rating and "Highly Recommended" status. In the 2023 Book of the Year Contest sponsored by the HFC, "In Silence Cries the Heart" was just named winner of the Silver Medal in the category of Historical Fiction Romance, and most recently, it received the Gold Medal in Romance for the Feathered Quill 2024 Book of the Year..
The Journey of Catherine Hughes
Catherine's path into writing has been anything but ordinary. Her fascination with history began early, leading her to earn a Master's degree in British literature at Drew University that laid the groundwork for her career. Her first book won awards, fueling her interest in exploring the stories of underrepresented figures.
Her writing inspiration often comes from her travels, which reveal new cultures and untold stories. "Every place has its stories; it’s about digging deeper to uncover them," she emphasises. For instance, during a trip to Scotland, she learned about the love story of Domhnall Donn, the legendary Gaelic bard, and Mary Grant, the daughter of a Laird.
The Genres of Historical Storytelling
Hughes masterfully blends genres such as historical fiction, memoirs, and even poetry to create a distinct reading experience in her works. This combination enriches her narratives and appeals to various audiences. Hughes believes, “People want to feel emotions that resonate with them. The more layers a story has, the more connections it can forge.”
Her thorough research ensures historical accuracy while crafting intricate plots. Her latest book draws readers into 16th-century Scotland, a setting she believes is often overlooked in literature. This book highlights significant events from that period and explores societal structures and cultural dynamics, giving readers a holistic view of the era.
Engaging with the Audience
Catherine knows that connecting with her audience is essential. Hughes has reached thousands of listeners through platforms such as podcasts and social media, sparking their interest in history. Her ability to communicate effectively has grown her audience significantly. In fact, her social media following has increased in the past year, proving how she leverages technology to build relationships with her fans.
The Importance of Representation
One major focus of Hughes's work is the need for diverse representation in history. She points out that countless stories, particularly from historically marginalised people, often go untold. "As history bards, we have a responsibility to tell these stories. They deserve to be heard," she asserts.
Through her narratives, Hughes voices these overlooked stories, encouraging readers to appreciate the complex nature of history. This approach fosters a broader understanding of how different cultures have shaped our world.
The Greater Impact of Storytelling
Hughes believes that storytelling is crucial for developing empathy. "When we understand the stories of others, we can see the world through their eyes," she reflects. This belief motivates her to write for enjoyment and to encourage understanding.
Her latest book addresses themes of resilience and courage, which resonate deeply with readers facing personal challenges. By sharing stories of individuals overcoming adversity in both historical and modern contexts, Hughes inspires hope and strength in her audience.
A Final Word on the Impact of Stories
As the fields of history and storytelling evolve, so does the role of authors like Catherine Hughes. Through her captivating narratives, she sheds light on untold tales that remind us of our rich and complex history. The insights shared in this interview reveal the passion that fuels her work and her commitment to education.
Hughes encourages everyone to embrace their inner history bard in a world that flourishes on connections. Through her belief in the power of stories, she reminds us that history belongs to all of us—and it is through storytelling that we share this collective legacy.
So, whether you are a history enthusiast or simply curious about the narratives that shape our world, Hughes's works offer a journey worth taking. Immerse yourself in her writings and discover the countless stories just waiting to be uncovered.
About the Author
Award-winning writer Catherine Hughes is a first-time author who immersed herself in reading from her earliest years. Historical fiction is her genre of choice, and her bookshelves are stocked with selections from ancient, Medieval, and Renaissance Europe and those involving New England settlements and pioneer life in America. After double-majoring in English and business management on the undergraduate level, Catherine completed her Master's in British literature at Drew University. Then she entered the classroom where she taught American, British, and World Literature at the high school level for the last thirty years.
Aside from teaching and reading, Catherine can often be found outdoors, drawing beauty and inspiration from the world of nature. Taking the words of Thoreau to heart, "It is the marriage of the soul with nature that makes the intellect fruitful," Catherine sets aside time every day to lace up her sneakers and run with her dog in pre-dawn or late afternoon hours on the beaches of Long Island. When her furry companion isn't busy chasing seagulls or digging up remnants of dead fish, she soaks in the tranquillity of the ocean setting, freeing her mind to tap into its deepest recesses where creativity and imagination preside.
"In Silence Cries the Heart" was recently named as a Finalist in Fiction-Romance for the American Writing Awards, Honorable Mention in Historical-Romance for the Coffee Pot Book Club Awards, and Honorable Mention in General Fiction for the New England Book Festival Awards. In addition, the Historical Fiction Company gave it a five star rating and "Highly Recommended" status (see below). In the 2023 Book of the Year Contest sponsored by the HFC, "In Silence Cries the Heart" was just named winner of the Silver Medal in the category of Historical Fiction Romance, and most recently, it received the Gold Medal in Romance for the Feathered Quill 2024 Book of the Year.
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