PHOTO: Mary Ann Bernal brings history and adventure to life through her captivating novels and innovative storytelling.
Award-Winning Author Mastering Historical Fiction and Science Fiction
Mary Ann Bernal shares her passion for blending historical accuracy with imaginative storytelling across multiple genres, highlighting her research process, complex characters, and advice for aspiring writers exploring diverse literary forms.
Mary Ann Bernal captivates readers with a rich tapestry of historical fiction, science fiction, and adventure. Her stories are defined by vivid settings, intricate characters, and timeless themes of redemption, survival, and the human condition. From the windswept battlefields of the First Crusade to the political intrigue of Ancient Rome, Bernal’s work reflects a deep reverence for history paired with a flair for imaginative storytelling.
With her debut novel The Briton and the Dane, Bernal launched a literary career that has traversed centuries and genres. Her recent works, Crusader’s Path and Forgiving Nero, continue to showcase her unique ability to humanize history, drawing readers into worlds shaped by conflict, faith, and the complexities of human nature. At the same time, her AnaRose novellas present an entirely different dimension—fast-paced, Indiana Jones-inspired thrillers that demonstrate her versatility and creative scope.
Mary Ann Bernal’s masterful storytelling, rich historical insight, and genre versatility make her a captivating and influential modern author.
A graduate of Mercy College with a degree in Business Administration, Bernal brings both structure and insight to her writing. Her academic background has proven invaluable, equipping her with practical skills in project management and marketing that complement her literary pursuits. Balancing creativity with business savvy, she has carved out a successful and sustainable career in the publishing world.
In an interview with Reader’s House, Bernal shares the inspirations behind her genre-spanning work. Hollywood blockbusters, classic adventure films, and iconic sci-fi series like Star Trek and Star Wars all played a role in shaping her narrative sensibilities. Her admiration for characters like Captain Kirk and Indiana Jones sparked a desire to craft similarly bold, layered protagonists across different worlds and timelines.
When it comes to writing historical fiction, Bernal takes a cinematic approach to research. She begins with films and documentaries to immerse herself in the visual culture of the era, then dives into written sources to build context and ensure accuracy. Whether it’s the dusty streets of Jerusalem during the Crusades or the political corridors of Nero’s Rome, her stories transport readers to the heart of history while anchoring them with emotionally resonant characters.
The challenge of portraying historical figures—especially controversial ones like Nero—demands both rigor and empathy. Relying on biased accounts from ancient historians, Bernal sifted through hearsay and legend to portray Nero as a deeply flawed, yet tragically human, individual. In Forgiving Nero, she imagines a young boy separated from his mother, growing up amidst manipulation and cruelty, shaped as much by his environment as his nature.
In Crusader’s Path, Bernal delves into the spiritual and moral conflicts of war. Her characters are far from idealized heroes—they are wounded, searching souls trying to find meaning in a brutal world. Through them, she explores redemption and the cyclical patterns of violence and sacrifice that echo throughout history. Her message is clear: though times change, the core struggles of humanity remain constant.
Bernal also credits her business education for helping her navigate the publishing industry with confidence and strategy. From managing book releases to engaging with readers, she applies a disciplined approach that supports her creative work. It’s this combination of imaginative storytelling and professional acumen that has enabled her to thrive as an author.
To aspiring writers interested in tackling multiple genres, Bernal offers this advice: read broadly, experiment fearlessly, and welcome feedback. “Writing is a journey,” she says, and embracing different genres can deepen your voice and sharpen your skills. Her own career is a testament to that philosophy—constantly evolving, ever-curious, and always grounded in the power of storytelling.
Mary Ann Bernal continues to redefine historical fiction and genre writing with each new release. Her ability to weave fact and fiction, the ancient and the modern, ensures her place as a significant voice in contemporary literature.
Source: Reader’s House Interview with Mary Ann Bernal
