Melissa Harkin

Featured Image: J.C. Nichols Fountain, Kansas City Country Club Plaza

One of the most thrilling aspects of writing fiction is the opportunity to transport readers to different places, both familiar and exotic, through the vivid settings of our stories. In my “What If” series, the choice of locations is not just a backdrop but a dynamic element that shapes the narrative, reflects the characters’ journeys, and enhances the thematic depth of the tale.

From the heart of America to historic Italy

The first book of the series takes readers on a journey through Kansas City and Chicago and touches upon Fort Leavenworth. Each of these places is chosen for its unique atmosphere and the specific role it plays in the story. Kansas City, with its famous Country Club Plaza, provides a canvas of Spanish-inspired architecture under the orange glow of its night lights, creating a vibrant and romantic setting where a great deal of our characters’ personal growth and interaction unfold.

The inclusion of Fort Leavenworth in Kansas not only ties into the plot but adds a layer of depth with its rich military history. Known as the “intellectual center” and the “best small town” of the Army, it provides a contrasting backdrop of discipline and historical significance, reflecting the structured life of one of our main characters. Although the history of the “Buffalo Soldiers” doesn’t play a direct role in the narrative, it’s a fascinating facet that enriches the setting, and you should check it out.

Expanding horizons in book two

As I venture into writing the second book, the canvas expands to Lucca, Italy. This charming city, known for its intact Renaissance-era city walls and picturesque streets, will open new avenues for emotional and scenic exploration. The choice of Lucca is intended to mirror the internal transformation of our protagonists as they navigate through their personal and collective histories in settings that are steeped in history themselves.

A surprise location in the far north will serve as a breathtaking backdrop for our characters, offering a serene contrast to the vibrant warmth of Italy. This enigmatic northern setting, known for its stark landscapes and pristine beauty, will provide a perfect setting for deepening love and connection, enveloping them in a tranquil atmosphere ideal for nurturing their bond.

Why location matters

The settings in a novel do more than just serve as a physical space for the characters to move around in; they evoke moods, provoke reactions, and even act as a catalyst for change. In my work, I strive to make each location a reflection of the characters at that moment in their story. Just as the characters grow and change, so do the settings evolve, offering new challenges and opportunities for development.

In essence, locations are more than mere coordinates on a map; they are living, breathing aspects of the narrative that can tell you as much about the characters and their journeys as the dialogue and action. As I continue to explore new places and cultures in my writing, I invite my readers to travel with me, not just to see different parts of the world but to experience how these places can shape the course of a story and the destiny of its characters.

Keep an eye out for more updates on the “What If” series. Don’t miss out—scroll to the bottom of the page and subscribe to my reader list to be the first to know when book one hits the shelves!

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