Carla Swafford loves romance novels, action/adventure movies, and men, and her books reflect that. And that’s not all, she’s crazy about hockey. She’s married to her high school sweetheart and lives in the Southeastern U.S.
Guess what I found out today? My workshop with Lexi George and Heather Leonard has been picked for the Moonlight and Magnolias conference in Norcross, GA this October. We’re so excited. Twice we’ve presented it (and I was so freaking stiff – got to work on that – so unlike me) for groups of writers.
It’s called The Pitch is Back. Yeah, yeah. Not very original, but it works and I plan to play the Elton John song (appropriate considering he lives in Atlanta part of the time) The Bitch is Back while waiting for people to sit. Anyway, it will be a lot of fun to attend as we actually act out how to behave and not behave with an editor and agent. Not just telling you BUT REALLY SHOWING IT! HA! It’s a lot of laughs.
So come and join in the fun. Click here to find out more about the conference. It’s probably one of the three largest RWA chapter conferences.
And don’t forget I will be signing my book, CIRCLE OF DECEPTION, at the book fair October 11 there.
John Takahashi also known as Ice CIRCLE OF DISHONOR
Thanks to the fabulous Katherine Bone (Katherinebone.com) for inviting me to take part in the My Writing Process Blog Tour. And I’m told this post will also show up on Novels Alive TV [updated 7/11/2020 – no longer valid website]. Pretty neat website. You need to check it out.
Now for the first question. What am I working on?
I’m completing CIRCLE OF DEFIANCE. For those who have read the other Circle books, this is Jack’s story but in novella size. Before DEFIANCE, I had finished Ice’s story, CIRCLE OF DISHONOR.
They should be out this summer. Here are their blurbs.
CIRCLE OF DISHONOR: After the death of her husband, Lena Matthews wants to explore the dark, sensual side of life. She dreams of having the mysterious martial arts teacher, John Takahashi, in her bed. His every move screams of how well versed he is in carnal knowledge, and she’s willing to be the perfect student.
John, known as Ice in the more deadly parts of the world, wants the shy woman watching him from the coffee shop. But if he introduces her to his lifestyle, the trap he set for his enemy may snap shut on them both. Yet, he’ll risk it all to make her his.
CIRCLE OF DEFIANCE: Katerina Savalas hates to ask anyone for a favor, especially The Circle operative, Jack Drago. She needs his protection, and he’s the only man in the small town capable of fighting off the local criminal demanding that she handover the treasure map she’s found.
Only problem is Jack rather drink and wallow in self-pity than be the hero she remembers. Being assigned in the hayseed town, he’s aware that his days are numbered, and he believes she’s making it up. Treasure maps, yeah, right. But when someone burns down her house and almost kills her, he refuses to let his curse kill another woman on his watch. Or he will die trying.
How does my work differ from others of its genre?
Well, I guess every author likes to believe their books/series are different from everyone else’s. Let’s see. When I’m asked what I write, I normally answer Romantic Suspense. But that’s not totally accurate. In fact, recently I started branding myself as Action – Adventure Romantic Suspense. My books are fast paced, sexy, and often violent. Usually I say they’re like James Bond or La Femme Nikita. So how many romance books out there can say that?
Why do I write what I do?
Because they’re the type of stories I love to read and watch on TV and in the movies. The guys are alphas and know how to handle themselves. They’re willing to protect women in a heartbeat. While the heroines can kick-butt or at least have the sense to stay out of the way if they don’t know how.
How does your writing process work?
At the start, I begin writing the book with a general idea of where I want to go. Then about halfway through I check my white board where I have written several notes of what should be happening in each section of the book. It’s broken down to twelve parts with the usual highs and lows for a three part story. I use Blake Snyder’s SAVE THE CATand Michael Hague’s Six Stage Plot Structure (both are for screenplays but can be used to write novels) to make sure I’m on track. Then I go back and tweak what I missed in the beginning and then finish the book. Sometimes, if I feel stuck, I’ll write out a short synopsis and add a few bios of the characters. That usually clears my head and I can finish without worrying what I forgot.
I know, I know. Not a very exciting post. But I leave all the excitement to my characters.
I have something new to add to my website. Such a nice way to start the weekend. CIRCLE OF DECEPTION is a finalist in the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence!
If you want to pick up a (e-format or paperback) copy, click on a link below.
The Caffeinated Book Reviewer has a neat idea, and I thought you might be interested in it. Everyone knows how I feel about TBR piles. If not, you can read my post, just click here. Otherwise, get your act together. Be sure to click on the picture and go to her blog. Certainly a worthwhile cause, and you might win something. Happy reading.
I’ve decided to update my brand just a little. From Hot Romantic Suspense to Action * Adventure Romantic Suspense. Simple and sweet, heh? Sure my books are still hot, but I believe the covers normally give readers that idea anyway. But I wanted people to understand my books are not about serial killers or slow paced suspense. Nothing really wrong with them, just not my cup of tea.
As mentioned numerous times, they’re along the lines of Nikita and James Bond. My books are normally fast paced with lots of car chase scenes and lots of sex. They’re for adults who are not afraid of being themselves or fantasying about having more fun and being daring. You’ll get my drift after you read one.
Anyway, I’ve ordered some more book bags and changed up my logo a little. What do you think?
By the way, this is my 100th post for this blog. I’m keeping my promise to myself by not posting all the time, and so far it averages out to around twice a week. Not bad. I’m sure you have plenty more blogs to read than mine and most are waaay more interesting. HA!
Guess what I found out today? My workshop with Lexi George and Heather Leonard has been picked for the Moonlight and Magnolias conference in Norcross, GA this October. We’re so excited. Twice we’ve presented it (and I was so freaking stiff – got to work on that – so unlike me) for groups of writers.
Carla Swafford, Author 