Paul Jariabek
Sic Parvis Magna Meaning: Francis Drake's Motto Explained
In this post, I look at how the phrase became linked to Drake, what it suggests about his rise, and why it became the title of my Tudor-era historical fiction novel.
Historical Fiction Villain Sketch of James Reynard
Historical fiction thrives on complex characters shaped by real events. In this exclusive character sketch from Sic Parvis Magna, explore the troubled past of James Reynard—a fictional villain born amid the brutal upheavals of Tudor England. Inspired by history, Reynard's personal tragedy, betrayal, and violent path offer a gripping portrait of survival, ambition, and revenge in a world torn by religious and political turmoil.
AI-Generated Illustrations for Historical Fiction: A Visual Experiment
In this visual experiment, I explore how AI-generated illustrations can support the worldbuilding of historical fiction. Using prompts inspired by 16th-century sailing, piracy, and Sir Francis Drake, I tested how well an image generation model interprets historical themes. The results range from surreal abstractions to surprisingly accurate graphics. While hardly final covers, the images offer inspiration and serve as creative aids for artists.
Historical Fiction Novel Sic Parvis Magna Update: 80k words!
I am pleased to announce that the manuscript of the historical novel Sic Parvis Magna, the start-of-series of the Adventures of Francis Drake just crossed 80k words.
Historical Fiction Short Story Retribution By Paul Jariabek
The historical fiction short story Retribution follows a young Francis Drake in 1557 as he volunteers for a daring cut-out raid to reclaim the captured English ship Lionheart from French privateers. Drake is still uncertain of his future but finds clarity and resolve through this early brush with conflict and risk. The story explores his formative years under the patronage of the powerful Hawkins family, setting the stage for his transformation into one of England's most feared naval commanders. Retribution is set between the series opener Sic Parvis Magna and the upcoming novel First Blood
Francis Drake's Ship the Tiger: History Behind the Fiction
What kind of ship did Francis Drake first sail on? In this behind-the-scenes post about the research that went into writing Sic Parvis Magna, I explore the real historical vessels—like the Gresham Ship, and the Newport Ship—that helped shape my portrayal of Drake's early years at sea on a armed merchantman the Tiger. From piracy to trade this post is a deep dive into the ships that helped to forge a legend.
Young Francis Drake: From Tavistock Farm Boy to Pirate
This is not a full biography of Francis Drake. It is a historical fiction character study of young Francis Drake: the boy from Tavistock, shaped by rebellion, exile, Protestant conviction, maritime ambition, and the example of the Hawkins family.
The Art in Retribution: Illustrating Francis Drake
A historical fiction book allows the reader to experience what it could have been like "back then." Vivid descriptions are one way to start this experience for the reader. Theme-appropriate artwork is another. Read about the artwork in the historical fiction short story Retribution.
Opening Scene of the Historical Fiction Short Story Retribution
I'm thrilled to share the first scene of the historical fiction short story Retribution. Your interest means a great deal—thank you for taking this journey with me. If you enjoyed the read, please consider reviewing Retribution on Amazon or goodreads, subscribing to my updates and posting about this on your social media.
Announcement: Retribution Historical Short Story Released
Release announcement of Retribution, a short story in the historical fiction series Adventures of Francis Drake.
Privacy Policy
Learn how personal information may be collected, used, and protected on this site.
Historical Fiction Series Adventures of Francis Drake by Paul Jariabek
What circumstances and conditions create someone like Sir Francis Drake? What motivates him to risk his life in faraway seas and lands? Was it ambition, lust for power and riches? Or was it personal hate and vengefulness against a foe?