Kathie Costos discusses her inspiration, research, and creative process in blending historical
accuracy, psychological depth, and spiritual exploration in her novels.
In our latest issue of Reader’s House Magazine, we have the pleasure of delving into the creative mind of Kathie Costos, an author whose works blend historical fiction, psychological thriller, and spiritual exploration with a deft hand. Her series, The Ministers of The Mystery, delves into the haunting legacy of the Salem Witch Trials while also exploring the psychological struggles of her characters, particularly regarding PTSD and personal demons.
Costos’ journey into the Salem Witch Trials was born out of a deep curiosity to explore beyond the obvious. In her own words, she shares her fascination with the over 200 accused individuals, their families, and the pervasive fear that gripped the townspeople during that tumultuous time. This exploration forms the perfect backdrop for her gripping narrative.
Drawing from over four decades of research and personal experience, particularly as the wife of a veteran dealing with PTSD, infuses her characters with authenticity and depth. She expertly navigates sensitive topics, portraying the psychological struggles of her characters with empathy and understanding.
The Scribe of Salem, one of her acclaimed works, has drawn comparisons to the atmospheric and gothic elements of Edgar Allan Poe’s writing. Yet, Costos manages to balance historical accuracy with crafting a narrative that resonates with modern readers. She reveals how supernatural themes and spiritual exploration intertwine with historical events, offering a fresh perspective on familiar tales.
Her advocacy for veterans and their families shines through in works like For the Love of Jack, where she addresses combat PTSD with insight and compassion. Drawing from her personal experiences, Costos brings a unique authenticity to her storytelling, providing a voice for those who often go unheard.
Throughout our interview, Costos offers insights into her creative process, emphasizing the importance of developing complex characters with rich backstories. For her, storytelling is not just about entertainment but about shining a light on the human experience and the resilience of the human spirit.
Intrigued by the intersection of genres, Costos seamlessly weaves together elements of horror, historical fiction, and spiritual exploration. Through her work, she invites readers to reflect on the interconnectedness of these themes in our own lives.
Join us as we journey into the world of Kathie Costos, a storyteller whose tales of mystery, history, and human resilience captivate readers and leave a lasting impact.
What inspired you to delve into the history of the Salem Witch Trials for your series, “The Ministers Of The Mystery”?
I am a curious person who always wants to think beyond what is obvious. Research shows that while we talk about those put to death, we seldom think of the over 200 accused, their families, or the townspeople fearing they would also be accused. That time combined horror, supernatural events, religion, and trauma. It was the perfect place for the story to begin.
Your books delve into the psychological struggles of your characters, particularly regarding PTSD and personal demons. How do you approach researching and portraying such sensitive topics authentically?
I spent over 40 years researching PTSD and living with it as the wife of a veteran and survivor of my horrors. I helped people understand it better and helped them heal spiritually. Most people think PTSD affects veterans but are unaware of the millions of people around the world joining this club no one wants to belong to. The characters all needed to have backstories so people would understand they were helping the main character because they knew what it was like to suffer until someone helped them.
“The Scribe of Salem” has been compared to works by Edgar Allan Poe for its atmospheric and gothic elements. How do you balance historical accuracy with crafting a compelling narrative that resonates with modern readers?
We may be modern, but our basic design has been unchanged. The same things that scare us can help us when we see them differently. We expect to see those with supernatural powers inflict pain yet fail to see the spiritual gifts/powers being used to heal others. Religion was used to cause the deaths and suffering of the people in Salem while those same leaders should have been encouraging what Jesus preached instead. They all suffered PTSD wondering if they’d be next to be accused because their leaders said it was for God and then after it was all over, they called for a day of atonement begging God to forgive them. It was too late for Rev. George Burroughs after they hunted him and hung him.
Your book “For the Love of Jack” addresses combat PTSD and its impact on veterans and their families. How has your personal experience informed your writing and advocacy in this area?
I wrote it after researching PTSD and wondering where the stories for me were. I had to read clinical books with a dictionary at the library to learn what was happening to the man I loved. I wrote it because I couldn’t find it anywhere else and knew there were plenty of families like mine out there searching for what I found.
Can you share some insights into your creative process when developing complex characters like those in your books?
Ministers Of The Mystery Series came after months of praying for a new way to say what I had been saying for four decades. It is hard living as a survivor when you are with others unable to understand how that changes and challenges us. That’s why I wanted to show that miracles still happen, especially for us since surviving was a miracle in itself. Strangers showing up to help us was the second one. The characters became friends of mine and I felt as if I belonged there with them.
Your work seems to blend elements of historical fiction, psychological thriller, and spiritual exploration. How do you navigate the intersection of these genres while maintaining a cohesive storyline?
I am drawn to different things that do not seem to go together. Horror and supernatural do not seem to go with scripture and history doesn’t seem to fit until you take a look at how they are joined in our own lives. To me, all of it entwines just as all of it is the elements survivors know all too well.
