The Heart of Silver Creek: Creating the Supporting Characters
July 1, 2026
Hey everyone!
I’m back this month to wrap up my discussion about the characters of the Frontier Hearts Trilogy.
When I first began writing Frontier Kindred, I knew I wanted Nate and Jack to be surrounded by a close-knit group of friends—people who would stand beside them not only through everyday life, but also through the many challenges they would face together.
That’s how characters like Ben Harper, Abel Winslow, Walter and Mildred Jenkins, Caleb Mercer, Calvin and Rebecca Avery, and, of course, Eleanor Callahan came to life.
I wanted each of these characters to be respected members of the Silver Creek community, each bringing something unique to the story. Ben and Abel became trusted friends whose experience and wisdom helped guide Nate and Jack through difficult moments. Walter and Mildred offered not only their knowledge of business and trade, but also unwavering loyalty, compassion, and a strong moral compass. Calvin and Rebecca eventually became more than close friends—they became family through Isaac and Lillian’s marriage, strengthening the bonds that had already formed between them.
And now, I’ve saved my favorite supporting character for last: Eleanor.
As I’ve mentioned before, Eleanor was probably my favorite character to create because she evolved in a way I never originally intended.
Very early in the writing process, I found myself thinking about how many gay men have close female friends—relationships built on trust, understanding, and unconditional support. I loved that dynamic and wondered if I could bring it into the trilogy.
That’s when everything clicked.
Instead of simply being another resident of Silver Creek, Eleanor became Nate’s closest confidante and, over time, the maternal figure he never truly had. From that moment on, she seemed to write herself. I completely fell in love with her character and everything she represented: kindness, wisdom, acceptance, and unconditional love. Watching her relationships with Nate, Jack, and the rest of the town grow became one of the greatest joys of writing the series.
Now that I’m bringing the trilogy to its conclusion, I can honestly say that creating these characters has been the most rewarding part of the journey. They became far more than names on a page—they became people I genuinely cared about, and I hope readers come to feel the same connection I did while writing them.
Next month, I’ll begin exploring a variety of topics about my writing process and the creative journey behind my books. I hope you’ll join me.
Until then, take care—and be happy!
— Chris
