Britfield by C.R. Stewart
Britfield is originally published in the US but has now made its way to where it is actually set, England. Please see below for further details from the publicist and a Q&A with author, C.R. Stewart.
This fast-paced adventure novel transports the reader from the smoldering crags of Yorkshire, through the heart of England, and finally to the magnificent shores of Dover. Creating an interactive world of mystery and adventure, culture, and education, Britfield is about friendship, family, and courage.
The first in a seven-book series, Britfield presents a real-world readers can relate to by weaving accurate geography, history, and culture into the exciting story. This type of writing breaks the fourth wall of fiction, reaching the hearts and minds of all demographics.
Q: What inspired your story, Britfield & the Lost Crown?
A: It started as a sketch I did of a hot air balloon with a young boy and girl trapped inside. From this simple drawing sprang the entire concept and story for Britfield. I also liked the idea of adventure, exploration, and freedom—seeing an extraordinary country for the first time: moving from place to place, enjoying spectacular scenery, and exciting events, learning new things, meeting people, making friends and having hope for a better future. I like that not everything is what it seems. Not everyone is who you think they are: the simple often can become great, the great often turn out to be simple. Everyone has a unique story.
Q: Would you tell us about where the book takes place?
A: The story plays out all over England, starting in Yorkshire, through the Midlands, Oxford, Windsor, London, and many other locations. All the locations, streets and buildings are places I have visited and remember vividly. I hope that the readers of Britfield will not only enjoy the book but also have a chance to visit England, explore the different locations and fall in love with this breathtaking country the way I did.
Q: Why England?
A: I have always loved the England—its complex history, dynamic culture, wonderful people, and beautiful countryside are filled with a rich tapestry of amazing stories. I also lived in England for almost a year and have been back to visit over thirty times. I visited Hadrian’s Wall between Scotland and England, walked the haunting moors by the Brontës’ home in Haworth, wandered the streets of London, toured Dickens’ house, explored Thomas Hardy’s Dorset and made my way down to the Cornish shores of Fowey, where Daphne du Maurier wrote her romantic suspense novels. All these experiences have deeply influenced my life and my writing.
Q: How long did Britfield take you to write?
A: Britfield & the Lost Crown took me over four years and 2500+ hours to write and edit.
Q: How many books will there be in the Britfield series?
A: Right now, I’m planning on having seven books. Britfield & the Rise of the Lion, Book II launched in July 2021 and takes place in France. Britfield & the Return of the Prince, Book III launched in September 2022 and takes place in Italy. Britfield & the Eastern Empire, Book IV releases October 2024. With each book, Tom and Sarah grow by one year older.
Q: Who are some of your favorite or most influential authors?
A: There are many, but here are a few. I enjoy Charles Dickens and his ability to take a Shakespearean cast of characters and seamlessly weave them through his stories. I have been heavily influenced by C. S. Lewis, his amazing depth and creativity as an author. Jane Austen captured the aristocracy, the intrigue, the forced etiquette and the psychological games and hypocrisies of the upper classes. The Bronte sisters, Charlotte, Emily, and Anne wrote mysterious, romantic gothic novels that are powerful, moving, and deep. Thomas Hardy took simple characters living in a rural setting and created complex, multilayered stories.
