Author

Suzy Henderson

Interview Suzy Henderson on her novel The beauty shop

What’s your book The Beauty Shop about?

In wartime England, a WAAF and a scarred American bomber pilot find love and hope amidst the devastation of war, with the help of a pioneering plastic surgeon.

The Beauty Shop is a historical novel set during World War II, focusing on the incredible true story of the RAF Guinea Pig Club. It features the real-life plastic surgeon Archibald McIndoe, a fascinating figure who pioneered groundbreaking techniques in reconstructive surgery, giving hope to many injured and burned airmen. The story focusses on the courage and resilience of these men, especially the main character, who must navigate the physical and emotional scars of war. It’s a tale of hope, healing, and the extraordinary strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity, shedding light on a little-known aspect of wartime history.

 

 

What inspired you to write about a romance set against the backdrop of War?

I was inspired by other novels I’d read, but I was also following my passion for World War II at the time, particularly the RAF and USAAF. I felt that the bombers’ war was still underrepresented in fiction, especially the stories of the brave airmen who risked everything. The blend of romance and wartime drama allowed me to explore not only the heroism and sacrifice of these individuals but also the personal connections and love that helped them endure such challenging times. By weaving romance into this historical setting, I hoped to create a compelling narrative that honours their experiences and brings a more human perspective to the realities of war.

 

Mac’s internal struggle after being badly burned is both emotional and physical. How did you approach writing about trauma and its impact on relationships?

With my background in nursing, I have a certain level of experience and understanding of the complexities of trauma, both physical and emotional. This helped me approach Mac’s journey with empathy and authenticity. To deepen my portrayal, I also immersed myself in the biographies of Archibald McIndoe, the pioneering plastic surgeon who treated these men. His groundbreaking work and compassionate care for the men of the RAF Guinea Pig Club provided invaluable insight into the psychological and social challenges these individuals faced. By combining my nursing knowledge with historical research, I aimed to create a nuanced depiction of how trauma affects not just the individual, but also their relationships, showing both the struggle and the strength needed to rebuild a sense of self and connection with others.

 

Stella Charlton is determined to help the war effort by joining the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force. What drew you to highlight this specific role for women during the war?

My grandmother joined the WAAF during the war. She never spoke about her experiences—something that generation simply didn’t do—so I was always intrigued by what her life might have been like during those years. In many ways, I wanted to honour her and the countless other women who served in these crucial roles. Stella’s character is a tribute to my gran and to all the women who contributed so much behind the scenes. By highlighting the WAAF, I hoped to shed light on the vital roles women played in the war effort, often without recognition, and to bring to life a part of history that remains underrepresented.

Can you share a bit about your writing process? How do you develop characters like Stella and Mac that feel authentic and relatable?

My writing process involves a blend of thorough historical research and a deep connection to people in the here and now. I start by creating my characters—I see them, name them, and then delve into their backstories. It’s important to flesh out all the practical details until I understand what drives them and what they need. For characters like Stella and Mac, this means exploring their personal histories, motivations, and the impact of their wartime experiences. By combining the historical context with universal human emotions, I aim to create characters who feel authentic and relatable, allowing readers to connect with their journeys on a personal level.

 

 

Were there any particular authors or books that influenced you while writing this novel?

I was inspired by several authors while writing The Beauty Shop. Sarah Sundin’s WWII novels captivated me with their rich historical detail and compelling characters, offering a blend of romance and war that resonated with my own storytelling goals. However, I was particularly in awe of Pat Barker’s Ghost Road. Barker’s profound exploration of trauma and the psychological impact of war left a lasting impression on me. Her ability to delve into the human psyche during times of conflict influenced my approach to depicting the emotional and physical scars of my characters, especially Mac, in a way that feels both raw and authentic.

 

 

When you’re not writing, how do you like to spend your time? Do any of your hobbies or interests make their way into your stories?

When I’m not writing, I love to read, watch dramas and films on TV, and explore the Lake District and the Scottish Borders. Writing is never far from my mind, whether I’m visiting bookshops or finding my thoughts drifting back to story ideas and plot twists. I don’t think it has an off switch!

Reading has certainly made its way into my stories, inspiring both my style and themes. In fact, one of my romance books even features an author as the main character. The occasional walk has also influenced my settings, especially the natural landscapes that often find their way into my novels. The tranquillity and beauty of the fells can be a great source of inspiration, providing the perfect backdrop for scenes that require a sense of place and introspection.

 

 

Do you plot your stories in advance, or do you prefer to let the narrative unfold organically as you write?

When I first started writing some years ago, I didn’t plot at all. I didn’t know how, and I couldn’t imagine how it could make things easier—it seemed like so much extra work upfront. How naive I was! The Beauty Shop was written in a bit of a haze, with minimal planning to keep me on track while allowing the narrative to unfold organically, as you say. It went very well up to a point, but then I spent countless hours staring into space, trying to force my brain to produce the next scene.

In retrospect, detailed planning would have been sensible. Now I plan meticulously. It’s the only way for me to understand the entire story and find the direction I need, allowing me to feel much more confident as I write. Every writer is different, of course, but this method works for me. That said, planning still allows for unexpected twists in the narrative if you’re open to it, so nothing is set in stone.

 

 

Are there any upcoming projects or books that you’re currently working on? Can you share a sneak peek with us?

I’m currently working on a new speculative WWII series, and the first book, Her Darkest Hour, is due out May 2025. This series dives into the complexities of life during the war, blending historical detail with fantastical twists.

Alongside that, I have a new romance series in the works, set against the beautiful backdrop of the English Lake District. Book 1 is complete, and I’m currently writing the second book. While I can’t share an excerpt just yet, I can promise readers a mix of romance, mystery, and the rich historical elements they have come to expect from my writing.