Question. I am considering writing a historical romance for Harlequin. It is based in the American west, circa 1878, Colorado, specifically.
I have researched the region, the clothing, the attitudes, the employment, the buildings, etc...
I am fine with all that.
BUT....
The town that I wanted to have my story take place in still exists, today, and the story is not flattering to the town, at all. Do I mention the town by name, or do I just make up the name of a new town and mention the geographic region, in general? Would that still be considered historically accurate? To 'make believe' an entire town? Even if it WAS historically correct, in all other respects....
Now, I know that larger towns are customarily referred to as backdrop locations, such as Chicago, Boston and New Orleans. But in terms of smaller towns, I looked up some of Harlequin's recent historical releases that speak of small towns, and they seem to be real places...except they are mostly ghost towns, now. Or have very few residents, at most. Spring Creek, Texas, for example. Real place. Almost died out. (I googled it)
Any advice would be appreciated. I can easily rename my town and still give the 'flavor' and feeling that I am hoping for, without stepping on anyone's toes. Just don't know what the right protocol is, here.
Thanks for the advice, in advance.
I have researched the region, the clothing, the attitudes, the employment, the buildings, etc...
I am fine with all that.
BUT....
The town that I wanted to have my story take place in still exists, today, and the story is not flattering to the town, at all. Do I mention the town by name, or do I just make up the name of a new town and mention the geographic region, in general? Would that still be considered historically accurate? To 'make believe' an entire town? Even if it WAS historically correct, in all other respects....
Now, I know that larger towns are customarily referred to as backdrop locations, such as Chicago, Boston and New Orleans. But in terms of smaller towns, I looked up some of Harlequin's recent historical releases that speak of small towns, and they seem to be real places...except they are mostly ghost towns, now. Or have very few residents, at most. Spring Creek, Texas, for example. Real place. Almost died out. (I googled it)
Any advice would be appreciated. I can easily rename my town and still give the 'flavor' and feeling that I am hoping for, without stepping on anyone's toes. Just don't know what the right protocol is, here.
Thanks for the advice, in advance.
