We were lucky to catch up with Libby recently and have shared our conversation below.

Libby , appreciate you joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

I attended numerous writing conferences. While many were helpful, I wish that I had focused more on developing my own skills. Hearing countless people tell how you “have” to do things in order to be successful can be intimidating and downright confusing. Listen to your gut and focus on learning the craft of writing. Write and keep on writing. It’s a muscle that grows stronger with use!

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I have always loved writing and public speaking, so I went to law school. After serving in the Army JAG Corps for six years, I then practiced law in both firms and corporations. Missing creativity in my life, I eventually became a freelance writer and columnist, dabbling in fiction on the side. I stumbled onto the story of 16-year-old Susanna Bolling who saved General Lafayette from capture during the American Revolution and found my life’s passion in American history writing “Susanna’s Midnight Ride” for a young-adult audience. I petitioned the Virginia General Assembly to recognize Susanna Bolling’s birthday on December 5, and they created “Susanna Bolling Day” in Virginia. Soon historical organizations, schools, museums, and retirement homes invited me to speak, and I found myself in demand.

My history-loving friend brought me to a lecture on Dolley Madison, which led me to my second heroine in “Dolley Madison and the War of 1812.” I created Study Guides for each book and worked with the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) to establish a historic marker for Susanna Bolling. They also awarded me with the Martha Washington Medal for my service to the SAR. This summer “Susanna’s Midnight Ride” inspired a new musical in Virginia Beach about Susanna Bolling in honor of America’s 250th birthday.

This summer I released my third historical novel, “The Union Spymistress: The Story of Elizabeth Van Lew.” Set in Richmond during the Civil War, Elizabeth Van Lew risks her life, wealth, and social status to preserve our embattled Union. She helped 109 Union prisoners-of-war escape from Libby Prison and led the most valuable spy ring of the Civil War, providing daily reports to General Grant.

In addition speaking about the historical research for my books, I expanded my talks to many other topics, including “Petticoat Patriots of the American Revolution,” “French General Lafayette, America’s Favorite Fighting Frenchman,” “Time-Travel to Civil War Richmond,” “Christmas During the Civil War.” In addition, I teach seminars for “The Aspiring Writer,” “The Art of Creative Writing,” and “Dialogue: Developing Robust Characters.”

With America’s 250

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

People always comment on my genuine enthusiasm as well as my work ethic of constantly appearing at local festivals, book signings, and historical events! I love being able to do what I love! Often it doesn’t feel like work at all, which is such a gift. Showing up again and again builds people’s confidence in your commitment to the field — and it gives you a chance to make friendships. Friends support friends!

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Social media is a wonderful tool to grow your business. Be authentic and be yourself. No one else can be you. Post often, but don’t be “sales-y.” Let people into your life and share what you are doing. Include lots of photos of you enjoying sharing your craft with the world. It build little by little, Jus stick with it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.LibbyMcNamee.com
• Instagram: @libbymcnameeauthor
• Facebook: @LibbyMcNameeAuthor
• Linkedin: Libby McNamee
• Twitter: @LibbyMcNamee

Image Credits

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