Author Q&A and Giveaway: Carly Phillips

I am so excited to welcome author Carly Phillips to the blog today! I've been a huge fan of Carly's books since her Chandler Brothers series. Not only is Carly a great writer, but she also has great taste in sports as we both love the New England Patriots! Hey I gotta show some Patriots love!


Welcome to Hanging With Bells Carly! Please tell us a little about yourself.

Hi! Thanks for having me back! I’m a stay at home mom, I love writing romance and think that being on Twitter and Facebook is a perk of the job. I’m crazy for my dogs (ask anyone who knows me, including my kids), and I’m a huge reader – of course!

Your latest release in the Serendipity series is Karma, which features the youngest Barron brother Dare. His character has gone through so much in his past that was unveiled in the first 2 books in the series. What is about Dare that gives him the strength to handle all that he has in the past? 

Good question! Dare has an inner core most people only wish they had. His perpetually light disposition masks a tough past and a lot of pain but he’s a good guy. And good guys don’t give up, they make do and move on. That’s what Dare did. He’s come through the other side (almost) – Liza, his feelings for her and her connection to Dare’s past through her brother – is his biggest challenge to date. How he handles it will define his future.

Do you have a favorite Barron brother and which one to readers seem to connect with the most? 

You had to ask that??!! You have to know that’s like asking which of my kids is my favorite. Here’s what I can tell you. I have a soft spot for Ethan – mostly because his brother’s didn’t and he just wanted to be loved and accepted. I always felt for Nash because as much as people didn’t understand him, he didn’t really understand himself or the world around him – but he learned. Then there’s Dare – whose protective streak really got to me. Does this answer your question?

Now that there is a book for each of the Barron brothers, does this mean that the Serendipity series will continue with other characters from the town? 

Yes!!! I’m so happy that I will be continuing the Serendipity series with another Serendipity trilogy – spinning off from Karma – based on the police officers of Serendipity. First up, Cara Hartley and Mike Marsden (Sam Marsden in Karma’s brother); then Erin Marsden (sister) and then finally Sam gets his happily ever after!

You mainly write Contemporary Romance novels. Is there another genre that you would like to write? 

I think I’m smart enough to know what I like to read, what I like to write, and where my strengths are. I’ll read in most romance genres but contemporary has my heart. And let’s face it, with the linear way my brain works, it’s the best fit for me! 

What are some of your favorite books that you have read and who are some of your favorite authors? 

I’m definitely the kind of person who lives – hence reads – in the moment. So though I have many favorite authors, when you ask me, the mind goes to the most recent books I’ve read and enjoyed – which doesn’t mean there aren’t others I love! That said – I’ve recently had a love affair with Kristen Ashley books – Dream Men and Rock Chick series – they appeal to the part of me that loves the wackier characters and alpha men. I adore Lauren Dane and Maya Banks books, Jill Shalvis, and of course my plotmonkey pals, Janelle Denison, Leslie Kelly and Julie Leto. 

What's in store for your readers in the future? 

As I mentioned, I’ll stay in the town of Serendipity with the cops there: 

Perfect Fit – February 2013 

Perfect Chance – September 2013 

Perfect Together – February 2014 

Thanks Carly for stopping by the blog today and I'm looking forward to reading some of your future releases! 

Thank you! It’s a blast being here and answering your fun questions! 

N.Y. Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Carly Phillips has written over 30 romance novels with contemporary characters and small town settings that today's readers identify with and enjoy. She’s a writer, a knitter of sorts, a wife, and a mom to two daughters (16 and20!) and two crazy dogs (a 1 year old Havanese named Brady and a 4 year old wheaten terrier named Bailey). In addition, she’s a Twitter and Internet junkie and is always around to interact with her readers. Carly lives in Purchase, New York and would love for you to like and follow her on the ‘Net!

Find Carly on the web: 

Website 

Twitter

Facebook

Pinterest

US-only giveaway: One lucky commenter will receive their choice of a Serendipity backlist title – Serendipity, Destiny, or “Kismet” (eBook only) – and Carly goodies! Leave a comment with your email included if you are interested in entering. Giveaway ends 5/8/12 at 12PM EST. Good luck!