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Fact & Fiction

How to Write a Novel Inspired by Family and History

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Pub Date Sep 9 2026 | Archive Date Sep 5 2026

How2Conquer, imprint of White Deer Publishing | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles


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Description

This simple and encouraging guide offers a relatable story map for writers who are sitting on a historical fiction story but don’t know where to start.

Connie Matsumoto was that person—until she wasn’t. With no MFA, no background in creative writing, not even a journal to her name, she wrote Of White Ashes, an award-winning novel inspired by her family’s remarkable World War II stories.

With delightful candor, Connie shares how she embraced novel writing by learning the craft, creating helpful techniques, and asking repeatedly, “Wait, how do you do that?” Offering personal story, practical writing advice, visuals, and a healthy dose of humility, Connie shows how she turned confusion into confidence and how you can, too.

Your story and voice matter. Let’s dive in, get messy, and bring the novel only you can write to life!

This simple and encouraging guide offers a relatable story map for writers who are sitting on a historical fiction story but don’t know where to start.

Connie Matsumoto was that person—until she...


A Note From the Publisher

Additional Book Formats with (ISBN-13):
Ebook: 9781945783470

Additional Book Formats with (ISBN-13):
Ebook: 9781945783470


Advance Praise

"Connie details the treasures of history that fuel story, including the ever-alluring rabbit holes, and how they can inspire creativity."

–Garrett Hastings, Author | Experience & Education Manager, The Delaware Historical Society

"Thorough, instructive, and inspiring — Fact & Fiction is a compelling read that will motivate writers."

–Laura J. Oliver, author of The Story Within, New Insights and Inspiration for Writers | NPR contributor | Developmental story editor.

"Matsumoto's detailed research advice, plotting strategies, and goal-setting structures will take readers from brainstorming to finished book."

–Mary Anna Evans, MFA, PhD, Award-winning author and retired creative writing professor, University of Oklahoma.

"Fact & Fiction shows you not just how to write, but also how to be a writer."

–Zach Powers, author of The Migraine Diaries | Executive & Artistic Director, The Writer’s Center

"Set apart by Matsumoto's bright enthusiasm and clever humor, Fact & Fiction is bound to make any writing project feel attainable, exciting, and worth all the work necessary to attain it."

–Karen Osborne, MFA, author of Patchwork and The Music Book

"Cleverly drafted, jam-packed with excellent information, fresh and entertaining."

–Charlotte Whitney, Award-Winning Author of A Tiny Piece of Blue

"A valuable roadmap of challenging terrain."

–Alden Hayashi, Author of Two Nails, One Love

"This engaging how-to belongs on every writer's bookshelf."

–Lisa Ard, Author of Brighter Than Her Fears

"Clear, well-organized, and encouraging, it offers expert guidance on research, structure, and storytelling, enriched by insights from both the author and renowned writers."

–Linda Fritz, author of Answering Alaska's Call

"Practical, down to earth, without minimizing the challenge, Connie provides abundant encouragement."

–Ellen Prentiss Campbell, author of Vanishing Point, Frieda's Song, and The Bowl with Gold Seams

"Connie details the treasures of history that fuel story, including the ever-alluring rabbit holes, and how they can inspire creativity."

–Garrett Hastings, Author | Experience & Education Manager...


Available Editions

EDITION Paperback
ISBN 9781945783463
PRICE $25.99 (USD)
PAGES 222

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