What Jennifer Chastain Finds Hard About Writing Romantic Suspense
Multi-published author Jennifer Chastain recently stopped by my blog to share some about her writing life.
Why did you start writing romantic suspense novels?
That is a very good question! I saw a story on the news about a federal agent who had been killed in the line of duty. His life was cut short at a young age, and I wanted to give him his “happily-ever-after.” From there, the story kind of took on a life of its own. I’ve always loved to read across multiple genres, and I realized that I really like to write romantic suspense. Well, that and a little bit of encouragement from the acquisitions editor who suggested that romantic suspense might just be a better fit for my writing style. Who knew? I was set on writing contemporary romance but I love the intense drama and mystery surrounding my characters. And I think it’s interesting how God has nudge us in a different direction from what I originally intended.
What’s the hardest part of writing romantic suspense?
For me, the hardest part of writing romantic suspense novels is trying to find new ways to kill off my characters (LOL), all while creating a believable yet intricate story plot.
When do you find time to write?
Since I work full time outside of the home, my writing time is limited. I try to write two to three weeknights for about an hour. The weekends are when I’m able to write in big chunks.
How do you come up with titles for your books?
Some books are just easier to name than others. My first book, Lethal Intentions, was supposed to be named “Targeted for Elimination.” It was to be a stand-alone book. The publisher liked the story so much that they asked if I could develop this into a series. So we titled the series Targeted for Elimination and my editor suggested each title have the word “deadly” or “lethal” in it. I think the word lethal in the three book titles conveys the danger of each plot.
What’s your go-to when you need a pick-me-up to keep writing?
I’m a big Diet Coke fan! Well, that and dark chocolate.
Why do you like writing romantic suspense?
Writing romantic suspense is super challenging and I love it! Besides that, the research can be fascinating. I love the elements of surprise and suspense added to the romance portion of my books. I feel like this is when my characters learn to depend on the Lord.
What’s the weirdest way someone has died or been killed in your novels?
In Lethal Pursuit, I had someone poisoned by eating castor beans baked into a pan of brownies. This is the plant they we get castor oil from. The bean covering is poisonous but not the oil. I thought that was super interesting.
Where do you get the inspiration for your plots?
I watch a lot of true crime shows such as Dateline or Snapped!, because, as everyone knows, truth is stranger than fiction. I incorporate elements of certain true crimes into my plots.
What do you wish readers knew about the romantic suspense genre?
There are so many different elements to the romantic suspense genre. Mine are more mystery with a lot of romance while others might be more of a psychological thriller within this genre. Others have more police procedures with less of the romance thread. Romantic suspense is not a one-size-fits-all cookie cutter type of genre.
Which of your books is your favorite and why?
I think each book is my favorite while I’m writing it! Seriously, I fell in love with Travis Beckett (hero of Lethal Connections) when he was a minor character in my first book, Lethal Intentions. I kept saying to myself, there’s more to this guy than meets the eye. He pops up in book two, Lethal Pursuit, as well. I had to really dig to figure him out and it was totally worth the effort. Even my readers kept telling me that Travis needed his own story, and I’m so glad I was able to write his HEA.
About Jennifer
Ever since she was a little girl living in her small town in New York, Jennifer has been a voracious reader. As a teen, she dreamed of embarking on epic adventures and exploring the world, just like all the characters in her favorite books. Instead, she writes suspense-filled romantic adventures. A northern transplant, she has grown to love the grace and charm of the South. In fact, she even married a native Charlottean. Jennifer is a member of ACFW, ACFW-Charlotte, Blue Ridge Reader Connections and Novel Academy. During the day, she works for a research center at the University of North Carolina Charlotte. But on nights and weekends, she is a writing ninja, cramming in as many words as possible. A hopeful romantic, Jennifer loves dark chocolate, Diet Coke, and a good rom-com. She and her husband have been married for over thirty years and are permitted to reside with their rescue cat.
Connect w/Jennifer
Website: https://jenniferchastain.com/
Lethal Connections by Jennifer Chastain
Being a Marine prepared him to fight, but not for his heart.
Travis Beckett has perfected the surfer guy persona with a devil-may-care attitude. He lives simply, but he longs for more. Forced into the Witness Protection program five years ago, he had no choice but to walk away from the only woman he’s ever loved, and he was positive he’d never see her again—but then she shows up in Hawaii, and now, they’re both in danger.
Five years is a long time to mourn for a man who left her at the altar.
When Kaitlyn Daniels flies to Hawaii to attend a medical convention, she expects a relaxing week spent furthering her career. Instead, she escapes a fire at the hotel, gets shot at, and discovers her supposed-deceased fiancé is alive and living in Hawaii. Together, they barely escape all the danger, and she’s more than ready to go home.
Trouble comes knocking on her front door.
As a new Christian, Kaitlyn’s faith is tested to its limits when the trouble from Hawaii follows her home to Providence, NC—so does Travis. Now, a more sinister danger lurks behind every shadow, and if she and Travis can’t work together to find out who is behind the violent attacks, and why, they can both say goodbye to their second chance.