Behind the Scenes with Janice Cairns: The Storyteller of Larkdale Hall

Introduction 

Janice Cairns, a prolific author from Scotland, takes readers on a captivating journey with her latest novel published by Austin Macauley, The Heriots of Larkdale Hall. [Link] Known for her romantic fiction, Janice has expanded her storytelling into the realm of family sagas, weaving tales of love, ambition, and mystery. In this exclusive interview, she shares insights into her creative process, the inspirations behind her characters, and what it takes to craft evocative, unforgettable scenes. Let’s dive into the world of Larkdale Hall and beyond. 

A Passion for Storytelling 

Janice’s love for writing began early, as she filled notebooks with her musings purely for her own amusement. Over time, this passion evolved into a career as a novelist, with The Heriots of Larkdale Hall marking her sixth book—and her first family saga. With a sequel already in the works, Janice shows no signs of slowing down. 

Edinburgh: A City of Inspiration 

Edinburgh’s rich history and creative atmosphere have deeply influenced Janice’s writing. The city, with its charming streets, art galleries, and theatres, feels like a playground for creativity. She describes it as a place where “ideas are in the air,” making it the perfect muse for her work. 

In The Heriots of Larkdale Hall, Edinburgh plays an integral role. Its bustling energy contrasts beautifully with the remote countryside of Larkdale Hall, adding a dynamic layer to the novel’s setting. The blend of the lively city and the tranquil countryside creates a balanced and immersive backdrop for her story. 

The Origins of a Family Saga 

The inspiration for The Heriots of Larkdale Hall came to Janice shortly after the pandemic lockdown. She found herself drawn to themes of family togetherness—a subconscious reflection, perhaps, of the separation and uncertainty the world had recently faced. 

Interestingly, while writing the novel, Janice was in the midst of moving house, making her own transition from one part of Scotland to another. This period of upheaval found its way into her writing, with Larkdale Hall becoming a symbol of stability and security—a fictional home offering solace amid personal change. 

While none of the characters are drawn from real life, they were crafted with meticulous care. Before they graced the pages, they lived vividly in Janice’s imagination, their personalities and quirks carefully constructed. 

Love, Ambition, and Heartache 

At the heart of the novel is the romance between Matilda Heriot and Alexander Worthington—a relationship fraught with ambition, disappointment, and heartbreak. Through their story, Janice explores the clash between love and obsessive ambition. Matilda, initially supportive of Alexander’s acting dreams, slowly realizes she is playing second fiddle to his career. The ultimate betrayal—Alexander’s absence on their wedding day—becomes a defining moment of heartbreak and disillusionment for Matilda. 

The theme of disappointment is further explored through Matilda’s emotional retreat. Unable to confide in her family, she finds solace in solitude—a poignant reflection of her heartbreak. Her eventual relationship with the Larkdale gardener, Leyton Landsdown, offers a glimpse of healing and redemption, making her emotional journey feel authentic and deeply human. 

Haydon Heriot: The Catalyst for Chaos 

Haydon Heriot’s arrival at Larkdale Hall introduces an intriguing tension to the story. Initially intended as a supporting character seeking refuge from marital woes, Haydon gradually evolves into a disruptive force. His presence becomes the catalyst for much of the drama that unfolds, adding an element of unpredictability and chaos. 

In a twist of fate, despite the turmoil he causes, Haydon lands on his feet—winning the heart of Rowena and enjoying a life of luxury on the Bridgedale estate. His complex, flawed nature makes him a fascinating character whose presence alters the course of the narrative. 

Crafting Characters with Depth 

Janice’s approach to character development is thorough and immersive. She begins by handwriting detailed profiles in notebooks, covering everything from physical traits to mannerisms. She even creates wardrobe lists, envisioning the outfits her characters would wear, and assigns them specific cars—bringing them vividly to life in her mind before they ever appear on the page. 

This meticulous planning ensures her characters feel real and fully formed, making them more believable and relatable to readers. 

Painting Scenes with the Five Senses 

Janice’s dedication to creating evocative scenes is evident in her attention to sensory detail. She strives to engage all five senses—sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell—to enhance the atmosphere and emotional resonance of her settings. 

For example, in a romantic scene, she might describe the scent of a burning candle, the sound of soft music, and the warmth of a character’s hand on another’s. In another scene, she might evoke nostalgia through the crackle of old photographs or the scent of a familiar perfume, triggering memories and emotions. 

Her skillful use of sensory details adds depth and authenticity to her storytelling, making the reader feel fully immersed in the world of Larkdale Hall. 

The Evolution of a Writer 

Janice’s writing process has evolved over the years, from spontaneous diary entries to the structured world-building of her novels. While she once tried writing directly onto a keyboard, she found it lacked the emotional connection she felt when writing by hand. For her, the tactile experience of handwriting her manuscripts brings her closer to her characters and their stories. 

Her process now involves handwriting her books first, then typing them up—preserving the emotional link she values so deeply. 

Looking Ahead: The Sequel to Larkdale Hall 

Fans of The Heriots of Larkdale Hall will be delighted to know that Janice is nearing the completion of its sequel. Although she initially had no plans for a follow-up, she felt an irresistible pull back to the world of Larkdale Hall. The characters, she realized, still had more to say and do, making the decision to write a sequel a natural and joyful one. 

Advice for Aspiring Authors 

For those looking to write romantic fiction or family sagas, Janice offers the following advice: 

• Write consistently: Short, regular writing sessions are more effective than infrequent, lengthy ones. 
• Know your characters well: Spend time developing their personalities, quirks, and backstories. 
• Use the five senses: Engage your readers by incorporating sensory details into your scenes. 
• Read widely: Immerse yourself in the genre you wish to write in to gain inspiration and insight. 
• Visualize your characters: Picture them vividly before you start writing to make them feel real on the page. 

Janice Cairns’ thoughtful approach to storytelling, her vivid character development, and her ability to craft emotionally rich and immersive scenes make The Heriots of Larkdale Hall a compelling read. With a sequel on the horizon, fans can look forward to revisiting Larkdale Hall and experiencing more of the drama, romance, and intrigue that Janice so masterfully creates. 

For anyone seeking an authentic and heartfelt family saga, Janice Cairns’ work is a must-read title. Keep an eye out for her upcoming sequel—it promises to be just as captivating as the original.