I’m thrilled to introduce a new chapter in our For the Love of Crete journey! As someone who shares your passion for this magical island, I know how much we all love diving into stories that transport us to its sun-drenched shores and rich history. That’s why I’m launching a new series of interviews featuring fascinating people who, like us, have been captivated by Crete’s irresistible charm.
Today, I have the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Juliet Carolan, author of the enchanting novel “Footsteps of Fate.” Juliet’s book weaves a mesmerizing dual-timeline narrative that connects Lancashire to our beloved Crete, specifically the hauntingly beautiful Spinalonga and the picturesque town of Elounda. Through her storytelling, she brings to life not just the stunning landscapes we know and love, but also the deep emotional connections that this extraordinary island creates in all who visit its shores.
Join me as we explore Juliet’s journey as a writer, her connection to Crete, and the inspiration behind her compelling story that has already touched so many readers’ hearts.
- Could you start by telling us a little about yourself?
I’m originally from Clitheroe in Lancashire and I’ve always had a love for storytelling and reading. Growing up I was always surrounded by books as my mother was an avid reader. It is since retiring and moving to Vietnam that my passion for writing has grown. I’ve always been drawn to stories that connect the past with the present, exploring how history shapes who we are today. My journey as a writer began as a hobby. Over time I realised I was especially captivated by dual-timeline narratives, as they allow me to explore how different eras and characters are woven together by fate. Footsteps of Fate is a culmination of my love for history, travel and deeply human stories.
- What inspired you to write Footsteps of Fate, and how did your love for Crete shape the story?
There is an old Lancashire legend about the ghost of the white lady at Samlesbury Hall who was sent away to a convent in disgrace and who haunts the hall. This was my first inspiration and I adapted it so that Isabella gets sent to Greece. I first visited Crete back in 2000 and that was my first visit to Elounda and Spinalonga and the legend of the island has stayed with me ever since. I wanted to share my love of Crete through my writing.
- Why did you choose Elounda and Spinalonga as key settings for the novel? Do you have a personal connection to these places?
Elounda has always held a special place in my heart and I wanted this to come through in the story The Footsteps of Fate. I have visited Spinalonga so many times and each time it has affected me. It’s such a haunting place and you can almost feel the spirits of the people that lived there. I felt it was the perfect place for Isabella’s story.
- The novel explores themes of love, loss, and destiny. Did you draw from any personal experiences or historical events to craft these elements?
I think love, loss and destiny are universal experiences that resonate with all of us, which is why they are central to Footsteps of Fate. While the story itself is fictional, it’s inspired by my deep appreciation for history and the way personal stories are often intertwined with larger events. For example, Isabella’s journey was influenced by the resilience of people I’ve read about who endured unimaginable hardships yet found hope and strength.
On a personal level I’ve always been fascinated by how life’s unexpected twists can lead us to places we never imagined, much like Amelia’s journey in the present-day timeline. Her story of heartbreak and self-discovery reflects, in part, my belief in the power of starting anew and finding beauty in the unexpected.
- How did you approach weaving together two timelines and two protagonists?
Writing a dual-timeline novel was both a challenge and a rewarding creative experience. I wanted each timeline to feel complete on its own while also complementing the other, like two pieces of a puzzle coming together. One of the biggest rewards was seeing how the two stories echoed and enhanced each other. The biggest challenge was ensuring readers felt equally invested in both timelines.
- Crete is known for its captivating beauty and deep history. Can you share a favorite memory or moment from your visits that influenced the novel?
My visits to Elounda influenced my novel. The second time I visited with my son Oliver. We stayed at the Manos apartments and had a wonderful holiday. Apart from Spinalonga, the other memorable event was taking the Happy Train into the mountains and the old villages. We both loved that trip and that was the inspiration for Nikos’s taverna in the village of Vrouchos.
- What kind of research did you undertake to bring the settings and historical details to life?
Research was a vital part of crafting Footsteps of Fate. I delved into the history of Spinalonga. Books, documentaries and historical accounts helped me understand the daily struggles and resilience of the people who lived there. As I have said I also spent time in Crete, walking the streets of Elounda and immersing myself in the unique atmosphere. I explored local traditions, cuisine and the vibrant life of its people.
- For those who have never visited Elounda or Spinalonga, what do you hope they’ll take away from your descriptions in the novel?
I would hope that they can visualise the stunning beauty of Elounda and the haunting atmosphere of Spinalonga, and above all else I hope it inspires them to visit this magical place.
- Do you have a favorite character in the story, and why?
My favourite character is Isabella. Her journey, though filled with heartbreak and challenges, embodies a timeless strength and grace. She is a character who sacrifices so much but leaves a lasting legacy. Writing the story was an emotional experience and I hope readers feel as connected to her as I do.
- What message or feeling do you hope readers are left with after finishing Footsteps of Fate?
I want readers to feel transported, both to the sweeping landscapes of Lancashire and Crete and the layered emotional journeys of Amelia and Isabella. I expect readers to be left reaching for tissues, as the story has touched many deeply and brought them to tears. It’s an emotional journey that lingers long after the final page.
- Are there other stories or themes you’re considering exploring in future novels, particularly those tied to Crete?
I enjoyed writing Footsteps of Fate so much and I can’t wait to go back and visit Elounda. I have been considering writing another story based on the life of Dimitri, Isabella’s son, telling the story of his life and those he helps on Spinalonga. I do enjoy writing dual-timeline novels and have written one other book, The Book of Shadows which is a story set in the present-day Lancashire and the 1600s at the time of the Pendle Witch Trials. I am currently writing a sequel to this story which will eventually be a trilogy.
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What a wonderful glimpse into the heart and mind behind “Footsteps of Fate“!
I’m particularly excited about Juliet’s hints at a future story following Dimitri’s life and his connection to Spinalonga. As someone who has walked those historic streets many times, I can already imagine how compelling this new perspective will be. And while we eagerly await that next Cretan adventure, we can also look forward to diving into her other works, including “The Book of Shadows” and its upcoming sequels.
If Juliet’s interview has piqued your interest (and how could it not?), you can grab your copy of “Footsteps of Fate” right here. And remember, if the story touches your heart as much as it has touched others, considering leaving a review on Amazon would be incredibly helpful. Your thoughts and reactions, without spoiling the plot of course, can help future readers discover this beautiful story.
I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Juliet for sharing her time and insights with us. The photographs she’s shared add such a lovely personal touch to our conversation, don’t they? They really help bring her connection to Crete to life.
This has been such a delightful start to our interview series, and I can’t wait to bring you more conversations with other Crete-loving creatives and interesting personalities. Stay tuned!
Καλή ανάγνωση! (Happy reading!)
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Further Reading: Complete Guide to Spinalonga Island: Crete’s Historic Gem
