Can you believe it's already mid-November? I sat down two days ago to write out everything that has to happen before the end of the year. I thought it would make me feel better to get it out of my head and onto my page, and instead it made me realize that I am going to need some sort of temporary exemption from the laws of space and time.

Or at least a lot of caffeine.

Episode 74: Mary Frances Phillips Works from a Place of Play

I knew this interview was going to give me a chance to talk about things like the relationship between a historian and her subject and switching between scene-writing and historical analysis. But I didn't know I would also get to talk about stickers! I loved learning how Mary prioritizes including joy in her life and writing. Listen here.

New on the Drafting the Past blog:

• I rounded up some of this week's new releases in history books. Check them out and let me know what you're reading.
• I updated my advice for pitching Drafting the Past. If you've ever thought about suggesting yourself for the show, read this first!