Clio is the Greek muse of history. She is often seen with a set of tablets. Here, she is pictured reading from a parchment scroll.

I write historical fiction–with a twist. I often alter history, not merely by introducing fictional characters into the past to interact with real people, but also by changing history.

Because I studied and taught history and art history, it was natural that Clio should be my muse. (I do hope she forgives me for not always telling the truth.) Fact or fiction, she inspire me throughout the writing of my Catalina & Bonhomme novels, and even more so in my time travel series.

Research enables the planning and preparation for each novel I write. There are times when I could just go on researching and never stop to write–but what fun would that be? I love research, but I love to spin a good tale. Altered history is an ideal genre for me.

I’ve often heard authors declare, “My book just wrote itself.” I contend, as my mother used to say, that this is pure hogwash. Without the writer’s imagination, inspiration gathered from history, and the author’s ability to tell a good story, there is no novel. Believe me, the author is in control. History is simply a guide–and a wondrous guide it is.

As you read my novels and novellas, I hope you’ll come to realize why I owe so much to Clio. She will forever be my inspiratiion and my muse. She is there for you too, you only need to seek her out.

Note: A much longer version of Clio is my Muse was initially posted on Theresa Hupp’s website. You may find the long version on  https://www.theresahuppauthor.com/blog/2012/08/08/clio-is-my-muse-by-pamela-boles-eglinski/