In a gripping episode of La Vie Creative, podcast host Krystal Kenney welcomes back author Calvin Shields to discuss his latest historical fiction thriller, “What Remains.” Set in the South of France during World War II, the novel explores themes of love, betrayal, and the moral cost of war, resonating deeply with Shields’ own personal history and passions.
A Plaque that Sparked a Book
The journey of “What Remains” began in 2019 when Calvin Shields stumbled upon a marble plaque on a wall while hiking near his home in France. The plaque commemorated two brothers, shot by Germans in June 1944, who were part of the local resistance. This unexpected discovery ignited Shields’ curiosity and led him down a path of research and creative speculation as he developed a fictional narrative to fill in the gaps left by history.
Fact Meets Fiction in Historical Thrillers
Writing historical fiction demands a delicate balance between fact and fiction, and “What Remains” is no exception. Shields meticulously researched historical events and local geography, ensuring accuracy in his depictions. His fervent commitment to realism is evident in details such as the correct timelines and descriptions of locations, like the Gestapo headquarters and sabotaged viaducts. As readers journey through the novel, they are treated to a historically authentic experience enriched with thrilling fiction.
Themes That Resonate
Shields’ personal connections to World War II, stemming from his father’s and other relatives’ wartime experiences, greatly inform the authenticity and emotional depth of the narrative. This personal history fuels the novel’s exploration of how war forces people together, requiring them to make rapid decisions that could have life-altering consequences.
Betrayal and Redemption
The theme of betrayal is a persistent undercurrent in “What Remains,” arising from complex relationships and moral dilemmas faced by characters like a young Jewish girl sheltered in Shields’ village. In a time when the resistance was marred by internal betrayals, Shields’ character-driven story explores these dynamics with a nuanced perspective.
Upcoming Projects and Continuing the Legacy
Looking ahead, Shields is already working on his next project titled “Fault Line,” a historical novel inspired by family letters from colonial India and France. Grounded in factual history, this new endeavor promises to weave real-life events into a compelling narrative once more. As we concluded our talk with Shields, it was clear his passion for storytelling continues to thrive. His imaginative and thoroughly researched works are not only captivating reads but also cultural and historical explorations that linger with readers long after the last page is turned. For those interested, “What Remains” is available on Kindle and Amazon. For more updates, Shields can be found on his website, calvinshields.com, as well as on Instagram and Facebook under his author name.
