When Fiction Mirrors Reality: Researching Real-World and Tech and History
by Rose Sandy
Why do some novels feel as if they are unfolding in tomorrow’s headlines while still sweeping us away to a world of imagination? It comes down to the delicate dance between factual depth and creative liberty. Here is how one of our authors, Miran Cyrus, strikes that balance as she launches their new release, the first in her trilogy The Priestess of Egypt and the first book The Hebrew's Secret.
Marin Cyrus is a thriller and dystopian author known for her inventive storytelling and bold reimaginings of historical narratives. She specializes in transforming classic tales from the past into pulse-pounding modern epics, infusing each story with high-stakes action and deeply drawn characters. Here it from her:
START WITH BEDROCK FACTS
Before I drafted THE HEBREW’S SECRET, I devoured academic papers on Middle‑Kingdom Egypt, studied museum stelae, and cross‑referenced the biblical account of Joseph. Real trade routes, temple hierarchies, and political rivalries anchor the story. That is why the first encounter between Asenath and the captive Hebrew boy in the Memphis slave market feels authentic — it is stitched from documented practice. (rosesandybooks.com/products/the-hebrews-secret-priestess-of-egypt-trilogy-book-1-ebook)
IDENTIFY THE GAPS AND FILL THEM WITH STORY
History seldom records private conversations or hidden motivations. That is the author’s playground. When sources fell silent about Asenath’s inner life, I imagined her spiritual doubts and wove them into secret rituals inside On’s temple — a creative bridge that is historically plausible yet undeniably fictional.
RESPECT THE SCIENCE OR THE TECH
Whether we are talking CRISPR or chariot engineering, the rule is simple: bend, do not break. In my technothrillers I push speculative tech to its limits, yet I reference real patents or lab breakthroughs so readers sense the tether to reality.
SIGNAL FICTIONAL TWEAKS
An author’s note or afterword lets readers know where reality ends and invention begins. Transparency preserves trust and invites the curious down their own research rabbit hole.
KEEP THE READER FIRST
Facts serve as foundation stones, but characters and stakes are the soaring arches. Every detail must fuel emotion and momentum; the moment research becomes a speed bump, it is time for narrative fuel injection.
FINAL THOUGHT
When fiction mirrors reality, the reflection is not perfect — it is artfully warped to reveal deeper truths. As long as authors respect the bones of history and the laws of physics, readers will gladly follow every creative detour.
COMMON TROPES IN ANCIENT EGYPT & BIBLICAL THRILLERS
- Forbidden love that crosses cultural or religious boundaries
- Political intrigue inside palaces, temples, and priestly courts
- Ancient secrets locked in scrolls, tombs, or sacred artifacts
- Prophetic dreams and divine omens steering human destiny
- Power struggles between rival deities or emerging monotheism
- Strong female protagonists navigating patriarchal societies
- Epic journeys along desert caravans, Nile riverboats, or Red Sea crossings
TRY THESE 7 STAND‑OUT READS:
The Hebrew’s Secret by Mira Cyrus — Priestess meets Hebrew captive in a tale of love and political peril.
The Red Tent by Anita Diamant — A lyrical retelling of Dinah’s life amid the patriarchs.
River God by Wilbur Smith — Court politics and treasure quests along the ancient Nile.
The Egyptian by Mika Waltari — An ambitious physician rises during Pharaoh Akhenaten’s turbulent reign.
Pharaoh by Wilbur Smith — Engineering marvels, war, and intrigue on the banks of the Nile.
The Queen’s Secret by Stephanie Landsem — Espionage and faith inside King Xerxes’ palace.
The Heretic Queen by Michelle Moran — Royal rivalries and forbidden love after Nefertiti’s rule.
Joseph and His Brothers by Thomas Mann — A sweeping literary saga of the biblical patriarch.
Find The Hebrew's Secret here:
https://rosesandybooks.com/products/the-hebrews-secret-priestess-of-egypt-trilogy-book-1-ebook