E.R. Blackwood, with a background in filmmaking and theatre, E.R. Blackwood brings a cinematic quality to the written word. Their debut novel, “Vineyards of Hope,” reads like a vivid screenplay, transporting readers to the sun-drenched vineyards of occupied France. Blackwood’s experience in visual storytelling shines through in their richly detailed prose and dynamic character interactions. When not writing, they can be found behind a camera, capturing stories through a different lens.
The Literature Times: What inspired you to write “Vineyards of Hope” and set it during World War II in occupied France?
E.R. Blackwood: Writing has been my passion for many years, and with Vineyards of Hope, I finally turned that passion into reality. I’ve always been drawn to the untold stories of war—particularly World War II. The resilience, humanity, and complexity of that era resonate deeply with me. France, with its rich history, vineyards, and tales of resistance, provided the perfect backdrop for a story that intertwines love, hope, and survival. The “grey and red” theme of war—the moral ambiguity and the intense, raw emotions—has captivated me since childhood, and it became the foundation for my debut novel. This story felt personal, almost like a calling I had to answer.
The Literature Times: How did you develop the characters of Jack Holloway and Marianne Dupont, and what makes their relationship unique?
E.R. Blackwood: Jack Holloway and Marianne Dupont came to life as two individuals shaped by the war but defined by their humanity. Jack is an OSS officer, torn between duty and the weight of his moral compass, while Marianne is a courageous resistance fighter, fiercely loyal to her people and cause. Their relationship is unique because it’s built in the shadows of war, where every moment is fragile and fleeting.
I wanted their bond to reflect the duality of love during times of conflict—intense yet restrained, hopeful yet uncertain. They complement each other, with Jack’s pragmatism balancing Marianne’s passion. The challenges they face together, the secrets they keep, and the trust they slowly build make their connection deeply human and relatable. Their relationship is not just romantic; it’s a testament to resilience, courage, and the sacrifices love demands in the face of adversity.
The Literature Times: The novel features themes of love, loss, and redemption—how do you think these resonate with readers today?
E.R. Blackwood: These themes are timeless because they touch on the core of human experience. Love, loss, and redemption are emotions we all navigate in different ways, no matter the era. In Vineyards of Hope, these themes are magnified by the backdrop of World War II, a time of immense sacrifice and struggle, which makes them even more poignant.
For readers today, these themes resonate because they remind us of the strength of the human spirit. In a world that can feel fractured and uncertain, stories of love overcoming obstacles, finding meaning through loss, and the possibility of redemption offer hope and connection.
The challenges faced by Jack and Marianne mirror the inner battles many people endure—balancing personal desires with larger responsibilities, coping with grief, and striving to find light in dark times. I believe readers see a part of themselves in these characters and their journey, making the story both universal and deeply personal.
The Literature Times: How does your background in filmmaking and theatre influence your writing style and storytelling?
E.R. Blackwood: My background in filmmaking and theatre has profoundly shaped the way I approach storytelling. Filmmaking taught me to think visually—to create vivid, cinematic scenes that immerse the reader as if they’re watching a film unfold. I’m always considering pacing, atmosphere, and the emotional resonance of every moment, ensuring that the visuals in my writing feel as dynamic as they would on screen.
Theatre, on the other hand, gave me an appreciation for dialogue and character development. On stage, every word and gesture matters because the audience is experiencing the story in real time. That focus on authenticity and emotional depth translates into my writing, especially when crafting the intimate and layered relationships between characters like Jack and Marianne.
Ultimately, my experience in these mediums has helped me write stories that feel alive—where the settings, emotions, and characters leap off the page and linger with the reader long after they’ve closed the book.
The Literature Times: The story is set in the context of war. How did you balance historical accuracy with creative storytelling?
E.R. Blackwood: While Vineyards of Hope is a work of speculative historical fiction, I placed a great deal of importance on ensuring historical accuracy. To achieve this, I relied on a combination of AI tools and traditional research methods. AI helped streamline the process, providing quick insights and details about specific events, dates, and cultural contexts from World War II. Additionally, I delved into old newspapers, archives, and other online resources to capture the essence of the time period.
At the same time, creative storytelling allowed me to weave a deeply personal and emotional narrative within the broader historical framework. My goal was to transport readers to occupied France while immersing them in the struggles, hopes, and relationships of the characters. The balance came from grounding the story in authentic details but giving myself the freedom to explore the human experience within that historical setting.
The Literature Times: What role do the vineyards play in the novel, both symbolically and narratively?
E.R. Blackwood: The vineyards are at the heart of Vineyards of Hope, both as a setting and as a powerful symbol. Narratively, the vineyards serve as a backdrop to the story, representing the resilience and continuity of life amidst the chaos of war. They are a place where love blooms, secrets are exchanged, and hope takes root despite the surrounding destruction.
Symbolically, the vineyards mirror the themes of growth, renewal, and endurance. Just as a vineyard requires care, patience, and perseverance to yield its harvest, the characters must nurture their relationships and dreams in the face of overwhelming adversity. The cyclical nature of the vineyards—how they survive harsh winters to blossom again—parallels the resilience of the human spirit, the enduring hope for liberation, and the possibility of redemption even in the darkest of times.
The Literature Times: What was the biggest challenge you faced while writing Vineyards of Hope?
E.R. Blackwood: One of the biggest challenges I faced was conducting in-depth research and navigating the unavailability of certain historical records, especially while writing from India. Capturing the essence of World War II-era France and ensuring historical accuracy required me to dig deep into old newspapers, archives, and other online resources. Additionally, balancing creative storytelling with accurate historical details demanded careful attention. It was a rewarding but painstaking process to bring the authenticity of that era to life in the novel.
The Literature Times: Were there any specific historical events or personal stories that influenced your depiction of the Resistance in the novel?
E.R. Blackwood: Absolutely. The formation of the OSS (Office of Strategic Services) played a significant role in shaping the backdrop of Vineyards of Hope. Their covert operations and the bravery of those who worked within the shadows inspired many aspects of the narrative. Additionally, the life of Jeannette Guyot, a real-life French Resistance member who risked everything to fight against the occupation, deeply influenced my portrayal of the Resistance. Her courage and dedication were a testament to the human spirit, and these elements helped bring authenticity and emotional depth to the story.
The Literature Times: What message or takeaway do you hope readers will have after finishing the book?
E.R. Blackwood: I hope readers walk away with a deep appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit. Vineyards of Hope is a story about love, sacrifice, and the power of hope even in the darkest times. It’s a reminder that even amidst war and despair, people can find moments of connection, courage, and redemption. I want readers to feel inspired by the characters’ determination to fight for what they believe in and to cherish the fleeting yet profound moments of love and humanity that define us all.
The Literature Times: What’s next for you as an author? Are you working on any new projects?
E.R. Blackwood: Yes, I’m currently working on my next book, which is also a historical fiction. It explores a different era, but like Vineyards of Hope, it dives deep into themes of resilience, love, and personal sacrifice. I’m excited to continue telling stories that blend history with rich, emotional narratives, and I hope it will resonate with readers just as much as my debut has. Stay tuned for more details—this new project is close to my heart!
