KIRA MORGAN | Not A Noble Calling

If you enjoy historical romances where a spun-sugar princess has servants at her beck and call to dress her in a sumptuous gown for a lazy afternoon of flower-gathering, you may be disappointed in my books. I like hard-working, goal-driven, salt-of-the-earth heroes and heroines, people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty. In CAPTURED BY DESIRE, heroine Florie Gilder is a goldsmith’s apprentice who’s had to learn to fend for herself, and Rane MacAllister is a huntsman who provides food for starving villagers.

Why this preference for commoners? Basically, there are three reasons:

1. I get bored with do-nothing characters. (In fact, I tend to make them the villains!) Characters that spend all day fretting over their attire for the ball or learning how to flirt with a fan or going on leisurely flower-gathering expeditions are dull, dull, dull. I’d much rather write about hard-working people with dreams and motivations. 2. Renaissance jobs are cool. Sure, Lady Winifred and Lord Rupert can indulge in certain proper occupations—sewing, dancing, hawking, hunting, attending feasts, going a-Maying. But can they be waxchandlers (candle-makers)? Chapmen (traveling salesmen)? Thimbleriggers (scam artists)? Broom-dashers, beekeepers, or beerbrewers? Who wouldn’t want to write about a hero who’s a vaginarius? (Yes, I know it sounds dirty, but that’s a scabbard-maker.) 3. I have a soft spot for underdogs. Heroes and heroines who aren’t born into privilege—who sometimes have to struggle for survival, who have tough journeys rife with obstacles and challenges—tug at my heartstrings. I can relate to them. I wasn’t born into wealth or privilege either, so when I see my characters rise to achievement and success despite their humble beginnings, through passion, persistence, and never giving up on a dream, it’s personally inspiring. I hope it inspires you, too! Kira Morgan
...stories to keep you up all night!
CAPTURED BY DESIRE
Coming March 2011...
SEDUCED BY DESTINY
www.glynnis.net/kiramorgan
www.facebook.com/kiramorganauthor
www.twitter.com/kira_morgan

Comments

10 comments posted.

Re: KIRA MORGAN | Not A Noble Calling

As a commoner myself I can relate.
(Mary Preston 4:41am September 19, 2010)

When a person has to go through some turmoil in their life to get ahead, they become a better person because of it. Those with the silver spoons in their mouths become tarnished, and never learn a thing throughout their lives. They also don't know what it's like to dream, or take a risk. All of the moral things it takes to be a survivor and upstanding person. I've been there, and have still been going through some periods of struggle.
(Peggy Roberson 6:46am September 19, 2010)

I agree with Peggy.
(Vickie Hightower 4:24pm September 19, 2010)

Commoners, by their very name, are easy to resonate with for you see them in everyday life. I like the underdogs, because I need someone to root for to make it over the obstacles and reach the distant prize.
(Alyson Widen 4:32pm September 19, 2010)

A lot can be learned about a person when you see how they deal with the "trials and tribulations" that come their way. I think when the reader watches a commoner face his/her obstacles, you can't help but cheer them on. Everyone wants to see the underdog succeed.
(Robin McKay 6:54pm September 19, 2010)

I think commoners are just more interesting. They come from all different walks of life, with so many experiences to share. They are never boring! You never know what will happen or who you will run in to.

Thimblerigger - what a hoot! I love it!
(Cynthia Netherton 7:25pm September 19, 2010)

I loved your article, about the various names for occupations back in the day, very interesting! Thanks.
(Brenda Rupp 8:24pm September 19, 2010)

I'm like you, I love characters with a purpose in life! If I had lived in those days & had nothing to do but flirt, look pretty & run around telling servants what to do, I know I would've died of boredom!! Thank goodness you don't write such trivial drivel! :o)
(Quetzi Fernald 2:44am September 20, 2010)

Kira - One of the reasons I enjoy your books so much is because of the perspective you take. I think we all have that relative or friend who is a diva.

In my case it's an older sister who has enough money and things to care for an entire small country and can't understand why us underlings can't do things on a whim. Of course she's also the one who calls and tells me how "tough" things are. (The last time I told her to sell one her million dollar homes).

Give me a book I can relate to with people who work too hard but really enjoy and appreciate and love those around them.
(Jeanne Miro 2:48pm September 20, 2010)

I love historical fiction and
love it when it's about normal
common people.
(Lisa Richards 11:59am September 21, 2010)

Registered users may leave comments.
Log in or register now!