Discover the World of Craig Pennington

Award-winning author Craig Pennington brings history to life with his meticulously researched historical novels, particularly his series following his Moorhead family in Scotland, Ireland, and Western Pennsylvania. His passion for history isn’t just academic—it’s personal, woven from real-life adventures and a deep appreciation for the past.

Before turning to writing, Craig led an exciting career in the maritime industry. After college, he joined a treasure salvage company in Key West, where he helped search for legendary Spanish shipwrecks. As captain of one of the salvage boats, he played a role in the hunt for the Atocha, the famed Spanish galleon that sank in 1622. Alongside his team, he uncovered gold bars, silver coins, and centuries-old artifacts. It was during this time that he met his wife, Claudia, forging a partnership built on adventure and discovery.

Their journey continued with an underwater salvage expedition to the Caribbean islands of Dominica and Montserrat, diving into the mysteries of the deep and adding firsthand experience to Craig’s love for maritime history.

Meet the Author

After his treasure-hunting days, Craig transitioned to managing offshore construction projects for the U.S. Navy, while Claudia became the director of major maritime museums in Washington, D.C., Newport News, VA, and Key West. Today, they call Sarasota, Florida home, where they indulge in their passions for travel, book collecting, and horses.

Craig’s unique background infuses his novels with authenticity and depth. His maritime experiences and deep-rooted connection to history allow him to craft vivid, immersive narratives. Whether unraveling the trials of the Moorhead family in the 17th and 18th centuries or weaving suspenseful Caribbean thrillers, his storytelling bridges the gap between fact and fiction, bringing the past to life in unforgettable ways.

Craig and Claudia's love of adventure...

Research & Writing

Craig Pennington's diverse experiences as a treasure hunter, boat captain, project manager, and museum husband enrich his storytelling, blending adventure with well-researched historical fiction that captivates readers and brings history to life in his novels.

My Approach to Historical Research

Research is at the heart of my historical fiction. While the COVID pandemic limited physical travel, I used Google Earth to virtually "visit" locations important to my stories. Last year, I got to travel the exact roads and see the same locations I had written about.

Correspondence and interviews of experts is most important. I've made valuable connections with local historians, including Angus Martin in Campbeltown, Scotland, Brian Gordon Sinclair in Cuba, and historical societies around the world.

Although Chat and Wikipedia are good starting points, I rely on archival texts and primary sources for accuracy. Many archival texts are now fully scanned and searchable, making historical research both challenging and rewarding. For maritime details, I draw on both my personal experience working at sea and my extensive reading of seafaring novels and non-fiction accounts.

My wife Claudia's career as an underwater archaeologist and museum director has been invaluable to my research process. We were a very successful grant-writing team. As she says, she provided the "steak" of historical knowledge while I added the "sizzle" of storytelling.

Crafting Historical Narratives

My lifelong love of history, and my marriage to a museum director, help me seamlessly blend historical facts with thrilling adventure. I try to create compelling narratives that transport readers to different eras. My firsthand experiences in exploration add depth and realism to the stories, making history come alive on the page.

Ocean Experience

With years of hands-on maritime experience and a passion for history, I aim to bring this wealth of knowledge to my writing. My adventures across the globe have provided me with unique insights into historical exploration and discovery, which I strive to weave into every story. By blending education and entertainment, I hope my books offer an engaging experience for both history enthusiasts and adventure lovers, captivating readers with tales that are as informative as they are thrilling."

Writing Philosophy

My brother-in-law is an author, and he told me the way to get started is just to write. Even when stuck, writing a single sentence can unlock creativity. I often outline the basics I want to address and then let my fingers fly. One of the most enjoyable aspects of writing is being pleasantly surprised when characters take me in directions I didn't anticipate. I feel like I am watching a movie in my head. The challenge is to get the images on paper.

Contact Craig

A man in 18th-century attire sits at a wooden desk with a quill in his hand, looking thoughtful. Behind him, a woman dressed in a green gown with elaborate lace and ribbon detailing places her hand gently on his head. The setting suggests a scene from a historical period, with the man's clothing featuring ornate embroidery and a flower pinned to his jacket, while the woman appears to be encouraging or consoling him.

Reach out to Craig Pennington for inquiries, collaborations, or to connect about historical fiction.