C.J. Adrien answers reader and student questions

Historical Novelist Q&A

After nearly two decades as a historical novelist and educator, I have spent an inordinate amount of time (joyfully) fielding reader and student questions. Here you will find a collection of my and my readers’ favorites, on topics ranging from Viking ancestry to the ‘Mad King’ Charles VI of France.

Dive Into the Q&A

Two Sides of the Historical Novelist Coin: Writing and History

Given my background as a historical novelist and teacher, I have split this page into two sides of the same proverbial coin: the writing column and the history column. They are titled accordingly, so pick the one that suits your fancy. If you’re on mobile, you’ll unfortunately have to scroll past the history section to find the writing Q&A. This page is a work in progress, and I’ll be adding ‘cornerstone’ content as I go along. I will include a longer ‘archive’ at the bottom of this page for those of you who want to go past the top ‘favorites.’

And as always, if you have a question of your own, shoot me an email!

Historical Q&A

C.J. Adrien dressed up as a historically accurate viking for a class demonstration on Viking Ancestry

Do You Have Viking Ancestry?

In this article, I explore the question I have been asked the most: “Do I have Viking ancestry?” Please don’t send me your DNA results. I have something better for you.

What Was the Difference Between Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish Vikings?

What's the Difference Between Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish Vikings?

Here, I explore the question, “What’s the Difference Between Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish Vikings?” The answers lie in how much we know about them.

Did the Vikings wear makeup?

Here, I explore the question, “Did the Vikings wear makeup?” And it turns out we have ample evidence to suggest that they did.

A Niðstöng, a warning. On Viking attitudes toward homosexuality.

How did the Vikings View Homosexuality?

Here, I explore the question, “How did the Vikings View Homosexuality?” And it turns out we have ample evidence on how they did.

How fast were Viking longships?

Here, I explore the question, “How fast were Viking longships?” combining contemporary sources with modern reconstructions from around the world.

Archetypal Storytelling

In this article, I discuss how to use archetypal storytelling to not only improve your writing but also your understanding of your life’s journey.

How to write compelling narrative motivation

How to write narrative motivation

In this article, I discuss what makes compelling narrative motivation, in both fiction and nonfiction, and provide examples to show how it looks in practice.

Les Vikings à Noirmoutier

Découvrez l’histoire fascinante des Vikings à Noirmoutier. De la première attaque en 799 à l’occupation de l’île, explorez les recherches historiques de C.J. Adrien.

Master the Middle Ages: Research, Courses, and Insights Right in Your Inbox

Go beyond the novels. My Substack is the central hub for my latest historical research and professional education. Whether you’re a fellow writer or a history enthusiast, join the Kindred to explore the depths of the medieval world.