Author Caroline George on Writing “Dearest Josephine” and Regency Era History

YA Author Caroline George joins the program to discuss writing her latest book, Dearest Josephine. Our conversation covers her writing process, Regency era history and society, and pursuing romance years ago and today.

(1:45) Writers thriving in isolation, publishing industry, book cover and interior design. How she transition between her last book taking place in an apocalyptic world and her current one in taking place in Regency era England. Writing for self vs. writing for the craft and others.

(9:52) Writing YA. While the genre seems to be for teens, she finds women of all ages connecting with it because it explores universal themes of insecurities and finding one’s place in the world. Playing off social media and the fantasies of romance in the Bookstagram community.

(14:36) Researching for historical fiction. The emerging desire in contemporary society to return to simplicity. Why Jane Austen seems to grow more and more popular. Dream romance and Cottagecore.

(24:42) What does it mean to be a gentleman in the 21st century? Exploring masculinity with characters. Men using writing to express and process emotions. Social classes in the Regency period in the UK and Europe. The impact of the feudal system and Industrial Revolution.

(31:49) What were women’s rights like in the Regency era? Importance of marriage determining one’s future. Idle time for high-born ladies. Femininity and courtship in the Regency period.

(37:30) Parties! Social rules and emphasis on opulence and experience. Importance of showing you’re good company and well-thought. Why people skills still translate today to success. Can you work well with a team and collaborate with others?

(43:17) Lack of scientific knowledge led to miserable and shorter lives. People got sick and died. How much our culture and society evolved because of technology.

(45:59) Caroline’s experience in the UK. What’s England’s food like and how did that influence her writing? The extensive history across the UK, where layers are seen everywhere and contributes to a well-established national identity compared to the United States.

(48:55) Some of Rich’s favorite lines from the book.

(52.41) Caroline’s writing process and what’s on her horizon.

You can find Dearest Josephine where books are sold, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

You can follow Caroline on Instagram @authorcarolinegeorge