The North Yorkshire moors: the perfect setting

I consider myself very fortunate that I was already familiar with the moors when I began to write Beneath the Shadows. My husband’s family are from the area, and I knew straight away that it was the perfect setting through which to tell my story. The landscape’s endlessly undulating emptiness can seem inspiringly beautiful in some moments and downright hostile in others, and this contrast meant that Grace’s uncertainties and moods could be easily reflected in her perceptions of her surroundings. The weather in this region is mostly bleak and unrelenting during the winter months, which is when most of my story takes place. And the area has such a long and colourful history that there are plenty of legends and folk tales to add layers of mystery and disquiet to the narrative. I was only disappointed that I had to leave so much out! In the end, the setting was so vivid and significant to me that it was as though Roseby and its surroundings became another character in the book – one standing ever-present in the background, silently observing, stealthily absorbing all it witnessed into the depths of the earth.

Although the North Yorkshire moors and the Australian Outback could not be more different topographically, in a few ways they remind me of one another. There is this stillness, this vast emptiness that makes both areas impressive and intimidating. And while on first glance they look devoid of life, it is only because the majority of their inhabitants prefer to remain hidden. Underneath, there is much to uncover.

Back in November 2010 I had great fun doing some filming in the area, which two of my talented brothers in law then used to make a trailer and promotional video for the book (which you can see at www.randomhouse.com.au/beneaththeshadows). Being there again reminded me of how lovely the moors are during the milder months, and I am a little sad that I couldn’t say more about that in Beneath the Shadows. Still, I’m sure that those familiar with them will recognise their wintry depiction (and since we returned to Australia we gather they’ve had a LOT of snow!). As for the readers who are unacquainted with the region, I hope you are captivated by the events that take place amidst this vast, cold, withering wilderness on the other side of the world.