Discover the Emotional Depths in Jeanine Boulay’s 'What Keeps Us'

Exploring Division and Resilience in Liz Flanagan’s Upcoming Historical Fiction

Update Pioneering Narratives: Liz Flanagan’s New Frontier in Historical Fiction When Liz Flanagan’s new novel, When We Were Divided, releases in February 2026, it promises to deliver a gripping glimpse into the tumultuous period of the English Civil War—a time that led to deep societal fractures and poignant personal narratives. As the author transitions into adult historical fiction from her acclaimed works for younger audiences, she brings a fresh perspective on a challenging era. A Personal Resonance in a Time of Crisis The inspiration for Flanagan's latest work arose during the recent COVID-19 pandemic, as she reflected on the historical adversities of her local Yorkshire landscape. "Walking these hills kept me whole during lockdown," she said, emphasizing her connection to the land during times of personal and societal crises. The Battle of Heptonstall, a significant historical event, serves as a point of reference for the characters Jane and Isabel—sisters divided by political allegiance and loss. Complex Characters in a Divided Landscape The narrative's centerpiece revolves around three characters—the sisters Jane and Isabel, and Kit, a soldier who finds himself in a perilous situation devoid of family. This tripartite storytelling allows readers to experience the severity of civil war through multiple lenses, adding layers of emotional complexity. Flanagan has been meticulous in crafting her characters, emphasizing their individual responses to the immense changes wrought by war. Women’s Stories and Untold Histories Flanagan’s exploration of gender roles during the Civil War era illustrates her commitment to spotlighting women’s stories that often remain in the shadows of historical narratives. By presenting the sisters’ distinct perspectives, she underscores themes of division, resilience, and ultimately, reconciliation. This focus aligns with her broader literary tradition of elevating strong female leads and their struggles, capturing the spirit of survival against the backdrop of societal upheaval. The Art of Research: Balancing History and Narrative Flanagan's writing process involved a rigorous engagement with historical research. “There’s no story without character,” she asserts, prompting her to interweave the characters’ lives with significant historical events. This blend of fact and fiction marks her narrative as not just an exploration of the past but a reflection on humanity's resilience. The creative constraints imposed by her research also allowed her to maneuver through different narrative styles, enabling readers to navigate the complexities of her characters’ experiences more effectively. What Lies Ahead for Liz Flanagan? As readers await the release of When We Were Divided, Flanagan’s trajectory appears bright. With her transition into adult fiction, she positions herself as a notable voice in historical storytelling, forging paths that connect past traumas with contemporary issues. The way she weaves these elements into her writing not only engages but encourages critical reflection on our modern struggles with division and connection. Concluding Thoughts: The Importance of Historical Fiction Today Flanagan’s work is a timely reminder of the power of literature to bridge divides—both past and present. As we examine our contemporary societal fractures through the lens of history, When We Were Divided invites readers to reflect on their narratives through the lens of empathy and understanding. In a world haunted by division, Flanagan offers a narrative of hope and reconciliation. Stay tuned for Flanagan's impressive journey into this new genre—a testament to her adaptability as a writer and her commitment to exploring the intricacies of human relationships.