Writing a historical novel is rarely a straight line, and Memphis Moon from High Mountain Book was no exception. What started as curiosity about two sisters mentioned in passing in Civil War history books turned into years of research before author Matthew M. Watkins wrote a single scene.

Virginia "Ginnie" Moon and her sister Lottie had long been linked to Confederate espionage, but the historical record left large gaps. Rather than fill those gaps with convenient fiction, Watkins spent years cross-referencing historical accounts, geography, and period detail to make sure the world of Memphis Moon felt authentic rather than invented.

That approach is shaped partly by Watkins' own background. A former U.S. Navy service member with a degree in mechanical engineering, he brought a methodical, detail-first mindset to the writing process — something readers have noticed. Several reviews specifically mention how grounded the setting feels, from the mechanics of the period to the layout of wartime Memphis itself.

The result is a novel that moves with the pace of a modern spy thriller while staying rooted in real history. It's a balance that's harder to strike than it sounds, and it's part of why Memphis Moon has resonated with readers looking for historical fiction that doesn't sacrifice accuracy for pace.

For readers curious about the story behind the story, Memphis Moon is available now, with more background and updates shared regularly on the High Mountain Book blog.