Kinky Chats with Katy Swann

Katy Swann, BDSM Writers Con, kinky romance, Charley Ferrer

Katy Swann

Golden Flogger Award nominee
speaks out about writing BDSM

 

Why did you begin writing BDSM novels?
When Fifty Shades of Grey came out there was a lot of attention on BDSM, most of it not very positive. A D/s relationship was seen as abusive, Dominants were accused of being bullies and submissives were perceived as being weak. Obviously nothing could be farther from the truth. I knew that and other people in the BDSM lifestyle knew it, but it bothered me that so many people had got the wrong idea about it. I wanted to show readers that a true D/s relationship is a beautiful thing based on trust, respect and enjoyment. That’s why I started writing what was originally only meant to be a short story. I got so caught up in the characters and storyline, though, that it grew into a trilogy and was eventually accepted for publication by Totally Bound.

Where did you get your information on this lifestyle?
Apart from reading a lot of books, both fiction and non-fiction, I know a lot of people in the BDSM lifestyle. I go to the local munch and have been to many clubs and BDSM events. I’ve never used anyone’s personal circumstances in my books, but I do get ideas for scenes when I’m at a club. I think it would be very hard to convey the atmosphere of such an environment if you haven’t experienced it. For example, the sounds and smells of a dungeon are unique as is the buzz of sensual excitement in the air.

What does being nominated for the Golden Flogger Award mean to you?
Oh my God, I can’t begin to explain what it means, but I’ll try. When I started writing I did so because I wanted to tell a story. That’s it. Once I’d started I found that I loved it so much that I wanted to carry on and, when I started writing BDSM romance, I knew I’d found my calling. I never had any aspirations for being published. I only submitted my manuscript to Totally Bound because I hoped I might get some constructive feedback – I never dreamt that they’d actually publish it. I do this purely because I love it and have never considered myself anywhere close to the amazing authors that I love to read. I know I’m up against some incredible books and, to be honest, I don’t really expect to win, but just to be nominated along with them makes me so proud and honoured that I’ll be happy whatever the result.

Where would you like to see the BDSM genre head? How will it get there?
I don’t believe the genre will ever become mainstream, but that’s okay. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s there for those who do enjoy it. The big thing for me is to see the genre gain more respect both with other authors, publishers and readers. I think there’s still a stigma attached to anything erotic and, unfortunately, BDSM in particular is still widely misunderstood. I think if all those talented authors out there continue to write good quality and enjoyable books the genre will continue to gain the respect it deserves.

What is the hardest part of writing your novel?
Time. I have a husband, three kids and a cat. They all, rightfully, demand my attention and I do my best to give it to them. On top of that, two of my children are autistic and that can also absorb a lot of my time and energy. In fact, I see my writing as a kind of escape from reality – it keeps me sane. I try to write when the kids are in school, but I’m not very organized or disciplined and get easily distracted. My husband keeps joking that he’s going to lock me in the attic and stand over me with a flogger while I write to keep me on track. Hey, that’s not such a bad idea…

Will you be attending BDSM Writers Con or other events we can meet you at?I would love to. Unfortunately we live in the UK and, having three children, it’s hard to find the time and the money to jet off across the Atlantic. Having said that, I was hoping to see if there was any way I might be able to go to the New York one in August, but it clashes with something else we’ve booked. I’ve been to a couple of erotic writer’s con style events in the UK that were fantastic. Writing is very solitary so it really is lovely to meet other authors and readers, especially ones I’ve been Facebook friends with for ages. As the kids get older I think it might be easier to get to more events and the BDSM Writers Con is at the top of my list. I will get there one day.

Katy Swann is in her forties and lives near London, UK with her husband, three children and two cats. Katy writes BDSM romance with an emphasis on D/s. She finds the D/s dynamic the most exciting and erotic aspect of BDSM although a good spanking or flogging comes a close second. Her books are first and foremost love stories with a large dose of D/s and kinky sex.

The Boundaries Trilogy (To Love and Submit, To Love and Trust & To Love and Obey) was published in December 2013 and was her first release. She is currently working on a new series of standalone BDSM romance novels called Dominion.

Coffee, chocolate and cats are her favourite things and are often close by when she sits down to write.

 


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