We have author Ciara Knight talking about Research.
I research just enough to understand the rules of the world—law enforcement procedures, timelines, settings—then I look for the cracks where things can fail. Realism grounds the story, but tension comes from what doesn’t go according to plan. A delayed response. Conflicting information. A character forced to act without all the facts.
A motto preached by Margie Lawson at her writing academy is, "Clarity always wins." I believe that is true to every story.
When it comes to beats, I think in terms of rhythm. Tight action followed by a breath… then another twist of the knife. I end scenes at emotional pressure points, not just plot ones, so the danger feels personal. Suspense isn’t just about what’s happening—it’s about what the character fears will happen next, and whether love, faith, or instinct will be enough when the moment comes.
About the Author
Ciara Knight is a USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author who writes heart-tugging, faith-filled romance with a dash of hope and a whole lot of love. When she's not wrangling swoon-worthy cowboys or crafting small-town drama, she's navigating life as a proud mom of three spirited (and now grown!) boys.
In a major plot twist no one saw coming, Ciara and her tech-savvy husband recently traded in their empty nest for open waters—purchasing a boat to live aboard full-time. Together, they’re setting sail on the greatest adventure yet: the next chapter of life, love, and a few waves of inspiration. Anchors aweigh!
Ciara Knight on the web:
Winter Harbor Secrets
An icy harbor. A missing agent. A fake marriage that feels far too real…
When by-the-book FBI Special Agent Vivian Durand is assigned to pose as a honeymooner on a rusted-out boat off the Maine coast, she knows it’s her last shot to erase the stain of a disastrous op—and the partner who vanished without a trace. Her target: Laurel Tide, a ruthless coastal syndicate built on smuggling, extortion, and the kind of trafficking the Bureau buries in sealed files.
Her cover husband? The one man she doesn’t trust.
For seven years, rule-breaking Special Agent Thomas Blake has chased Laurel Tide through storms, gunfire, and body bags. Going deep cover in Winter Harbor is his best chance to finally bring them down. But from the moment he and Vivian step onto the Windward Lady—their so-called “safe” house—nothing is what it seems. The boat is booby-trapped. Their comms are compromised. And every move they make is watched by enemies on the docks… and possibly a traitor inside the Bureau.
Snowed in, cut off, and forced into close quarters, Viv and Blake have to sell their marriage while untangling a deadly conspiracy and rescuing innocent lives caught in the crosshairs.
Because in Winter Harbor, one wrong step won’t just cost them the case—
it could cost them each other.
Thank you for having me here!
ReplyDeleteImportant tips for writing a page turner.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Liz. I still believe that clarity always wins no matter what. :)
DeleteThanks, Liz. I still believe thta clarity always wins!
DeleteIt looks like an interesting book!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Blodeuedd!
DeleteSuch a great tip on focusing on the emotional pay off and not just the plot one. Sounds like a gripping read!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Jenni. I hope you enjoy Winter Harbor Secrets.
DeleteSounds good
ReplyDeleteThanks, Christine. I hope you enjoy Winter Harbor Secrets!
DeleteI think good research really makes things more realistic when reading a book. Especially when it's something I know about and the author gets the facts right, I love that.
ReplyDeleteMary, I totally agree. There was one time that made me chuckle, though. I wrote a cold scene in Florida and I got a scathing review about it never being cold in Florida. Um...I grew up there. Haha. I don't write truth anymore, only fiction. ;)
DeleteInteresting information and the story sounds wounds thrilling with lots of action.
ReplyDeleteThere is lots of action and some tender moments. Thanks Marja for stopping by. I hope you enjoy Winter Harbor Secrets.
DeleteI like to interview folks, when I do research. That makes it a fun process.
ReplyDeleteGood luck, Ciara!
Who have you interviewed that has stuck with you. I intereviewed a lady who was an expert on a woman I focused on a women's historical fiction book. It stayed with me all this time.
DeleteClarity is indeed important--I have struggled with that in the past. Interesting comments about looking for cracks to exploit. Best wishes on your new release, Ciara!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Jennifer. I appreciate you stopping by. I think chroegraphy is what always ends up with clarity issues in most of the writing I edit for authors. They want to make it all action but then they leave knives or arms missing in the scene. Haha.
DeleteGreat tips here.
ReplyDeleteThe book sounds intense and exciting!
Thanks so much, Veronica. I'm glad you dropped by.
DeleteThanks for sharing your researching techniques. Looks like you've written another winner;)
ReplyDelete'Lo, Nas.
Sandra sandracox.blogspot.com
My pleasure. I'm glad you enjoyed the post.
DeleteI love that! We've been working in musical theatre lately and there is so much room for confusion with your working with that many mediums to present a story. The clearest path really is the best. Ciara, great to see you here today!
ReplyDeleteI totally agree, Crystal. Thanks for stopping by. :)
ReplyDelete