Hours in bed with limited distractions have got me thinking about a project I started a few years ago and have since let drop by the wayside: an historical/gothic novel centering the life of Roseanna McCoy.
Yes, I know books have been written and movies have been made (even a stage play, I believe) about Roseanna and her handsome hillbilly sweetheart Johnse Hatfield. But my book would be a bit different. In the first place, it would be fiction so I would have lots of freedom to spin the yarn any way I want--not that this story isn't intriguing as it is.
Here's the gist, in case you don't know. Roseanna and Johnse were members of the famous feuding McCoy and Hatfield clans back in late 19th century Appalachia. There seems to be a lot of factors that contributed to the feud, including one damnable pig (a perfect horror novel device) and disputes and hatreds arising from the American Civil War. Some say Roseanna and Johnse had little if anything to do with starting the feud or even with prolonging it.
But the truth remains that the Hatfields and McCoys hated one another with a murderous passion. So the love affair between the pretty young daughter of old Ran'l McCoy and the dashing son of Devil Anse Hatfield, begun with an election-day tryst in the bushes, could only lead to disaster. And it did, and that's the story.
Aside from the pig and the Romeo-and-Juliet style love affair, the actual historical episode contains shoot-outs, murder, ambush, betrayal, out-of-wedlock pregnancy, guys with names like Devil and Bad 'Lias and Squirrel Huntin' Sam, and all kinds of story-making material.
As far as any of my reading goes (and I've done a lot on this subject), there was absolutely nothing supernatural about this actual feud and the events surrounding it. No ghosts or demons come to light. But the story is very dark and even if the supernatural character is merely Evil itself (though I do fancy doing something with that pig), I think this would work as a southern gothic novel.
This year (can it be possible?) is almost gone, and what's left of it is already filled with a list of things that have to be done. But I think I will put Roseanna (I'm considering changing her name to Rose and letting that be the title of my book) at the top of my 2010 list. A great project to start a new decade. What do you think? Would you buy this book?
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On 09/12/2009, Sandi said ...
I just might! I love historical fiction. I just finished The Diary of Mattie Spencer by Sandra Dallas and really enjoyed it. Am now reading The Chili Queen also by her. I say ..go for it!
On 09/12/2009, Nancy Duanvant said ...
Susan~ You are born to write. The underlying love story would come easy. The evil pig needs a bit more development, but I've read worse:)
Keep looking up and forward.
You are in my prayers.
On 09/12/2009, Jed said ...
Where do I pre-order??? Seriously - do it! The story is a natural, and your take on it would be fascinating.
On 09/12/2009, Jane McCarthy said ...
Would I buy your book?.......in a heartbeat! If, for some strange reason, one had to start paying to read your daily blog, I would do that too! As a big fan of historically-based fiction, I am currently reading The Star Garden, A Novel of Sarah Agnes Prine by Nancy E. Turner. This is the third in a series; first book was These Is My Words, followed by Sarah's Quilt. I heartily recommend all three.
On 09/12/2009, Barbara Anne said ...
Ohhhh! Yes, you can follow in the type of Eugenia Price whose books have hooked AMIL!
What a great first big endeavor for your new home office! Hope it will have sequels, of course!
Hugs!
On 09/12/2009, Pokey said ...
You would have a customer in me! It sounds like you've already been developing a great story line. Go for it! :-} pokey
On 09/12/2009, Joanne said ...
Great project for the new year! I know you can write, and the book would be SOME ACCOUNT! Just do it!
On 09/12/2009, Libby Dillard said ...
I would pre-order it today!! Libby
On 09/12/2009, Ruth Landon said ...
For sure I would buy, and look forward to reading your book. Living in Canada the American South has a great fascination for me , and I love American history. I have never heard of these Feuding families so it would be all new to me.
Hope you starting to get rid of your flu.
Ruth
On 09/12/2009, Deb said ...
Umm not sure Susan. Hope you;re starting to feel a bit brighter and your cold is leaving town.
On 09/12/2009, CarlaH said ...
Based on your writing style, I probably would. Having just helped my husband produce a 1000+page non-fiction book (I did a lot of the research, editing and layout required by the publisher) I know that this will keep you busy for a good while so I say go for it as long as you don't forget your loyal fans on this blog.
On 09/12/2009, Kristine said ...
Heck yeah I'd buy it! I'd do a pre-order on at least 5 copies. You know I have adored your writing since I was a kid. As a matter of fact, a copy of one your poems that you gave me hung on my bedroom mirror for over 10 years! It finally and sadly got lost during one of the moves.
Please do pursue this, if anyone has the talent to do the story justice it is you. :)
On 09/12/2009, Debra Spincic said ...
Follow your Bliss! The future is yours to grab and make it what you want!
On 09/12/2009, Kai said ...
OH, BOY! This post was SOOOOO worth fighting with my computer to GET to it! I WOULD buy it! In fact, I'd be first in LINE! Please, write it! YOU CAN DO IT! I love you!!!! Kai
On 09/12/2009, Gayle said ...
I'd want to be first in line for a book like that! In fact, I'd wait in a long line in the rain (without an umbrella) for a chance to buy it! :-)What a great idea!!!
On 09/12/2009, Alison Gibbs said ...
Susan what a great project for you to get into. It sounds wonderful.
You go for it girl!!
Alison
On 09/12/2009, jeanne said ...
Susan, I would buy the book in a heartbeat. You go girl. An interesting take on an old sad story.
I scrolled down to your earlier posts because I can't believe how fast this week has passed me by. I read your widowhood post and cried and laughed with you. Susan I know you will be ok. You are strong and have the strength to carry on. That is what one must do. My sister was widowed at 48 and her husband also lost a battle with cancer. She was brave, like you and found a way to go on just like you. I wonder if I could be so strong. I hope so. I also know there will be times when you are struck down with sadness and loneliness. However, life does go on and I encourage you to start writing. You write so well. Happiness will be there for you in expressing yourself. Gosh, I don't know why but these words just flowed out to you. Forgive me if I made you sad.
Blessings and love go out to you Susan...Jeanne
On 09/12/2009, Nancy said ...
No question I would buy your book. It sounds like a page turner, truly. I think this project should move right to the top of your 'MUST DO' list for the new year, or sooner if possible.
On 09/12/2009, Diane said ...
Yes, but the evil pig has me a little worried... I would require an autographed first edition, naturally.
:D
On 09/14/2009, Mollye Self said ...
Yep, I'd buy it and in fact I can hardly wait to read it. You go girl. And just a little word about your grief recovery. You're showing such faith and strength and I think you are right where God wants you to be. Hugs, Mollye
On 09/14/2009, Sandy said ...
I think the book is a wonderful idea,,your writing stle is so detailed and interesting, I think the boook would sell, especially to your "blogging" friends...I've often thought of writing a fictional book about the fascinating people in Alaska (where we lived for two years)but then I'm like you, who would read it?
It does sound like your family has their hands full but you're right, God will help ya'll through of this...I think of you often as the day goes by so at that time I lift you up to the Lord. God Bless You.
On 09/15/2009, Laurie said ...
It sounds amazing. I'd buy it!
On 09/16/2009, Teresa/MarieSews said ...
Write it! Write it! I can't wait to buy the book, grab a cup of tea, and settle in for a great read.
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