C.J. Miller

This is a question I get from time to time: So, you use a formula to write your books, right? I've heard other romance writers address this question before by saying, "no, there is no formula." I think writers feel insulted when someone tells them their craft can be copied by using a formula. But I'm going to let you in on a little secret: I use a formula. And I'm going to share it with you. If you want to write a good romantic suspense novel, all you need is: A hero A heroine A romance A plot A conflict A setting A happily ever after I won't overcomplicate the formula, but here are a couple notes in case that brief list is too vague and you're less an addition person and more into algebra. A hero: compelling and worth reading about. the reader should care about him. he needs something at stake. provide enough backstory to give him depth, but not too much to slow the pace. the book is taking place in the present - not the past. do...

I read an article in Working Mother magazine about the benefits that the best companies in the United States offer to their employees. I've worked at some nice places and some not-so-nice places, but these benefits amaze me! - mentoring programs - paid maternity leave - paid volunteer time - on-site fitness centers and classes - massage therapy services at work - prepared take home meals - backup childcare Since I work from home, I can't expect to be offered these benefits, but kudos to the companies on the list !

My advanced reader copies of Protecting His Princess arrived today. I'm thinking about fun giveaways, like offering copies if a reader sends me a picture of one of my other books in a cool place (poolside? on the beach?) that I could post to my website/blog. What do you think? To everyone who's written a review or emailed me about my other books, thank you so much for your support. It means a lot to me. I am working on line edits for Traitorous Attraction (book 4) now. Connor's story has a tentative pub date of May 2014.

Brady Truman, the hero in SHIELDING THE SUSPECT, is injured and unable to return to active duty as an Air Force pararescueman. He has lost his career and his goals for the future are destroyed. He feels adrift in confusion and hurt and bitterness. By the end of the novel, Brady gets help from a great organization. While there are many organizations who do wonderful work for veterans, I wanted to highlight the Wounded Warrior Project. The Wounded Warrior Project helps wounded soldiers to adjust life outside the military. I encourage you to visit their website (waiting on approval to post the link). It's a thank you to all that our country's servicemen and servicewomen have done to protect freedom, democracy and the pursuit of happiness.

Guest blogging at Riding with the Top Down today ! Stop by and say "hello!"

If you've read Shielding the Suspect and want to know a little more about Brady and Susan, here's an interview from Maniac Manga Cafe .