McKenna Rowell: Blending History & Fiction

McKenna Rowell  

"Deep down, I think we can all take comfort in the fact that if 

our ancestors were able to do it back then, we can do it today." 

     Did you know that the reason I started writing plays was because of McKenna Rowell? Back in 2021 I met McKenna Rowell on Instagram through a mutual author friend. I hadn't published my book yet and she was a huge help with that process. I read her book Unmasked and immediately adored it. It's the perfect blend of fiction & history set in one of my favorite time periods: The American Revolution. In December of 2021 we got to work together in adapting her book to the stage and premiered it in November of 2023! Unmasked the Play performed three different runs throughout 2023 and the beginning of 2024! Many people love her books, so I thought people should know the author who created them. I promise you'll love her as much as you love her books.

Q&A WITH MCKENNA

What was it that made you start writing historical fiction?

A: I've always loved history, but I haven't always loved writing. In fact, I hated reading and writing with a passion until I was 14. The only books I read were for school, and they bored me to sleep.

But, to make a long story short, my mom bought a novel from an author friend while we were getting ice cream. It was a medieval historical fiction, and I was hooked. Love at first sight. I realized that I wanted to tell stories of my own. I don't think there was a moment I decided to write historical fiction; it was just an obvious to me because I love history.

What's your favorite era to write about?

A: Definitely the American Revolution. But I love 18th century America, just in general.

Is there one era you won't write about? And if so, why?

A: I never say never, but I don't foresee myself writing in the medieval period. I don't really have an answer for "why" other than I just prefer more "modern" history.

What is it about historical fiction do you think keeps people coming back to it even if they don't necessarily like history?

A: The people. It's highly encouraging to see others overcome their struggles, and history is full of inspiring stories. The humanity in the past is constant, and it's something the future will always be able to relate to. Deep down, I think we can all take comfort in the fact that if our ancestors were able to do it back then, we can do it today. If they brought forth the future, we can, too.

Since you're currently in Williamsburg, what's the one place that has stood out the most to you on this trip?

A: I really love the Raleigh Tavern. It's where the members of the House of Burgesses went to continue discussing after Royal Governor, Lord Dunmore, dissolved them. With how Virginia was the first to declare independence, one could argue that the United States was conceived in the Apollo Room-where figures like George Washington, Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson-began addressing their concerns.

Check out McKenna Rowell's books on Amazon or follow her on Instagram at @mckenna_rowell_author. Or if you liked learning about her love of history, follow her on her new Substack Historically Yours!

LE