John Schwartz’ latest romance novel “Enchanting the Swan” transports readers around the world, including to Brussels, Geneva and the Alps.
The romance is catalyzed, however, on the campus of The College of William and Mary.
Schwartz will sign “Enchanting the Swan” from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday at the William and Mary bookstore.
Originally from Holland, Schwartz found a home in Northern Virginia working for the World Bank. Now retired, he began writing fiction three years ago.
Why? “It’s a good question,” Schwartz said, joking. In reality, he drew inspiration from his great uncle, a well-known novelist, and his own life experiences.
Schwartz’ daughter graduated from William and Mary in 1999, and that formed his first connection with the college.
“Enchanting the Swan” relays the story of pianist Paul Cramer and cellist Fiona de Maconville, who meet as graduate students in William and Mary’s music department and fall in love while performing duets at the college.
Schwartz said the novel’s first 10 chapters depict the characters’ growing love in the William and Mary setting.
The plot progresses as the two are forbidden to wed, and Fiona is whisked back to her native Belgium. Paul must then pursue his love, encountering dramatic characters and obstacles along the way.
Schwartz spent time researching at William and Mary’s music department. Some instructors even became part of the novel, including Neal Cary and Tom Marshall.
“Paul and Fiona needed to have a place to get to know each other as students,” Schwartz said. William and Mary’s music department “was the right setting for it,” he said.
On Friday, Schwartz will also sign his first novel “Some Women I Have Known,” which includes vignettes from encounters with Audrey Hepburn, whom Schwartz knew personally.
The William and Mary Bookstore is located at 345 W. Duke of Gloucester St.
Also on Friday, Wilford Kale will sign “Hark Upon the Gale,” one of the most popular histories of William and Mary, from 2-6 p.m. at the bookstore. From 6-8 p.m., Jeanne Weaver will sign “Losing Todd: A Mother’s Journey,” a collection of paintings and essays celebrating the life of her son, who was killed in Afghanistan.
Bridges can be reached at 757-275-4934.
