PVPF 2024

Interview with by C.L. Peache, Author of Power Of Nature

Frontlist presents an insightful author interview featuring C.L. Peache, in which Clair delves into the inception of "Power of Nature." Inspired by the beauty of Anderby Creek, the characters Harriett and Paul developed organically, their strong-willed personalities driving the narrative's direction.
on Aug 24, 2023

Frontlist: What inspired you to write about "Power of Nature"? How did you manage to articulate the characters of the story?

Clair: "Power of Nature" came to life when I was walking along Anderby Creek in Lincolnshire, U.K. This beach has such large skies, and the weather can change instantly from dark to blue skies. I'd been having a stressful time, and I thought about how much this environment and nature can heal, given time. In moments, Harriett was born, and then in the distance, I saw someone walking towards her, and this character became Paul. The characters, in many ways, wrote themselves. From the beginning, they had powerful personalities who wanted their stories to be told.

Frontlist: Harriett's struggle with her past trauma is a central theme in the book. How did you approach portraying her internal conflict and her attempt to reconcile her past with her present reality?

Clair: From the beginning, I knew Harriett had to tell her story. Although she had begun the healing process by moving to the beach and having her dog, Chester, as a company, her past was holding her back. She carried so much unhealthy trauma, yet even she had hidden this from herself. The trauma had blocked her memories to such an extent that she couldn't trust herself and only wanted to move on with her life after meeting Paul. I felt that using both the past and present realities allowed me to draw out the emotions and traumas she had suffered. This reflection helped to explain why she was in emotional turmoil in the present.

Frontlist: The story alternates between Harriett's present and past, creating a dynamic and engaging narrative. How did you craft this back-and-forth structure to enhance the storytelling and build suspense?

Clair: I found this to be a challenging story to tell, as writing a present and past storyline is extremely difficult, and I wouldn't have chosen to write it this way! I always say that my characters tell me their story, and I just write it. Once a character has formed in my mind, I have little say in the storyline. However, having read many books, I always strive to ensure my chapters finish in a way that makes readers want to turn the page and discover what happens next. Of course, a lot of work comes after the first draft is finished. During the editing process, I have the opportunity to craft the whole story once it's been told fully.

Frontlist: Your writing is noted for capturing the reader's attention. How do you approach weaving minute details and maintaining a gripping pace to keep readers engaged throughout the book?

Clair: Like most authors, I'm an avid reader, and I know what keeps my attention and makes me read a book in one sitting. I strive to achieve this by leaving breadcrumbs of information and building suspense. I aim to make the reader wonder what will happen next by encouraging them to guess the outcome of the characters and plotline. It's extremely satisfying to create that pathway for a reader who is engaged in the story, ensuring they care about the characters' journey. I want my readers to question what will happen next and form their own opinions on the storyline so they keep turning the pages!

Frontlist: Harriett's complex emotions and journey toward healing are central to the story. How did you work to make her relatable and multi-dimensional, allowing readers to connect with her experiences and growth?

Clair: I've mentioned how lucky I am that my characters write themselves. I never have to work very hard on creating a multi-dimensional character. Once they have 'appeared' in my mind, they are who they are, and no amount of trying to recreate or change them by myself will work! This is one of the most surprising aspects for me as a writer. I wanted to have much more say in the characters and stories! As with all authors, my characters are born from watching, listening, and engaging with people. Characters like Harriett are never a copy of one person but an amalgamation of many encounters, so be careful when talking to an author!

Frontlist: The relationships in the story, including Harriett's connection with Paul, are pivotal to her journey. How did you portray these relationships in a way that reflects Harriett's emotional state and the challenges she faces?

Clair: Paul came along just at the right time for Harriett. Without really knowing, she had come to the stage in her life where she couldn't move forward without needing and wanting someone to do this with. It was important that the person she met would understand her situation and care enough from that first meeting to want to know her more. Someone who would take the time to learn who the real Harriett was and not this shy woman from the beach. I loved the dynamics between them, and within the story, not only was the power of nature just as crucial as the power of love and human connection, but also the healing process of a pet. I wanted to show that a combination of influences is required to help face and overcome challenges in life.

Frontlist: What inspired you to explore the theme of trauma and recovery in "Power of Nature"? Were there any real-life events or experiences that influenced the story's development?

Clair: As I mentioned earlier, it struck me while on the beach how healing nature and the environment can be for mental health and trauma. Personally, during difficult times in life, I've found that going for a walk in the natural environment is a great healer. I've spoken to people who have healed themselves through therapy and the power of being amongst something bigger than themselves. Imagine taking a walk on a beach:

Feeling the surge of the sea
Listening to the sound of the waves
Experiencing the wind or the heat on your skin
Observing the large and dramatic skies
Feeling the touch of sand between your toes

The vista can seem so expansive; it often makes my own problems seem much smaller in the grand scheme of the world.

Frontlist: The book is recommended for thriller enthusiasts and readers seeking a captivating story. How do you balance the elements of suspense and psychological depth to appeal to a wide range of readers?

Clair: I think it's a combination of my love for so many genres, which is why I've written in multiple genres. I love reading a page-turner—feeling that emotional connection to the story and characters, the kind that makes you want to turn the page, even if it means staying up late when you really shouldn't! I strive to capture this in my stories: building a narrative with enough pace while not giving away too much. This also comes down to having a fabulous editorial team to help shape the story, ensuring it delivers these elements at just the right time to appeal to readers across different genres. Additionally, I believe that at the heart of any type of book lies the relationship between the characters, whether they are human or not. The reader must care about them and their journey, which gives me the ability to create stories that have a broad appeal to a larger readership.

Frontlist: As a relatively short read, the book still conveys a powerful message. Could you share your thoughts on crafting a concise narrative that resonates deeply with readers?

Clair: Thank you. I believe a book is as long as it needs to be, and I'm not one for writing overly descriptive text. I don't need it as a reader. With a few well-placed words, I've already imagined the scene. I think this approach adds to the story, as it delivers a punch. Instead of relying heavily on description, the story gains power from the narrative and action, which keeps it engaging. Once again, it all comes back to the reader caring about the characters. For me, that is paramount to any story.

Frontlist: Lastly, your book offers a sense of hope and transformation. What message or feeling do you hope readers will take away from Harriett's journey and the story's themes of healing and growth?

Clair: I hope my readers will recognize Harriett's struggles, stress, and anxiety and understand how deeply they affected her. Her life became insular due to these challenges, but she developed a desire to change through the power of nature and the influence and support of others. Extremes and trauma marked Harriett's life, yet there was a fundamental need within her to heal and lead a normal life. I hope anyone who has experienced trauma will read this and, at the very least, consider seeking help. My romance novel, 'Finding Love,' has inspired people to give new relationships a chance. As a writer, it's heartwarming to hear such stories and incredibly humbling to create a world where readers feel so engaged.