Why I Read Book Reviews, a $0.99 Bestseller, and a New Release in the Midnight Sons Series!7/8/2024  Hello, dear readers! Authors are often told NOT to read reviews. But I've always been on the fringe, living outside the box. One of the most rewarding aspects of writing is connecting with my readers. Your feedback, reviews, and social media posts have a profound impact on my writing journey. Today, I want to share why I always listen to my avid-reading friends' reviews and how they inspire my stories. Several of my stories have come about after reading your insightful reviews and engaging social media posts. The Midnight Sons series is a prime example of this dynamic interaction. When I concluded the original series, many readers expressed their desire for more. It was clear that the Midnight Sons had captured your hearts, and you didn't want the journey to end. Your enthusiasm and passion for the characters sparked an idea in me: what if I explored the origins of the Midnight Sons? To ensure I was heading in the right direction, I put out a call-to-action, asking what you, the readers, would like to see next. The response was overwhelming! Many of you wanted to dive deeper into the backstory of Adam and Claire, the parents of the five heroes in the series. Their stories were touched upon in the books, but there was a strong desire to know more about their journey and the beginnings of the Midnight Sons. Listening to your requests, I'm thrilled to announce that, due to popular demand, "Adam's Rising (The Original Midnight Son)" is now available for pre-order. This prequel delves into the trials and tribulations that shaped Adam's destiny and the legacy of the Midnight Sons. To show my appreciation for your support, I've priced it at only $0.99 so that previous fans of the series can download it at the lowest price. If you haven't started the Midnight Sons series yet, now's your chance! The first book, Sam's Folly, is $0.99 for a limited time. Dive into the world of the Midnight Sons and experience the thrilling adventures that have captivated so many readers. Thank you for being such an integral part of my writing journey. Your reviews and feedback are invaluable, and they help shape the stories that I create. Happy reading, and thank you for your continued support! Carmen DeSousa Sam's Folly is $0.99 for a Limited Time! Grab it now & start your Alaskan Adventure! Or... If you've already finished the series, pre-order the new release for only $0.99! Hurry, this introductory offer is only until release day! My way of making sure my previous readers always get the best deal!
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 Hello, wonderful readers and writers! Today, I want to dive into a topic that has intrigued both readers and writers for as long as novels have been penned: the notion that an author's first novel is often a thinly veiled autobiography. It’s a common belief, one that suggests our initial narratives are deeply personal, drawn directly from our own life experiences. But how true is this for most writers? Take my first book, She Belongs to Me. This romantic suspense introduces readers to Jordan Monroe, a Charlotte police officer whose life spirals into chaos when his wife, Jaynee, is found with a life-threatening gunshot wound. The plot thickens with suspense, secrets, and the complexities of love — elements that make the story anything but ordinary. You might wonder... How much of this story is a reflection of my own life? The answer isn't straightforward. Yes, like many authors, I pulled from real emotions and experiences to craft authentic reactions and engaging narratives. However, the art of fiction lies in the ability to weave these truths into imagined scenarios, creating a world that feels real. In She Belongs to Me, while most of the dramatic events are not autobiographical, the emotional journey of the characters might resonate with personal feelings of love, loss, and resilience that I, or anyone for that matter, could experience. Jordan’s protective nature and leadership could mirror any responsible sibling stepping up for their family, a role many of us know well. Moreover, the setting and cultural references stem from a familiarity with Southern charm and the nuances of living in Charlotte, blending authenticity with the fictive tapestry of the storyline. It's this mixture of real-life inspiration with creative invention that often leads readers to speculate about what might be real. The belief that first novels are autobiographical might stem from the observation that these works are often rawer, filled with unrefined passion as the author lays bare their narrative soul for the first time. It's a blend of what we know, what we observe, and what we imagine. For any budding writers wondering whether to infuse personal experiences into your work, remember: your stories need genuine emotion to resonate, but they don't have to be a memoir. Fiction's beauty lies in its boundless nature, the ability to explore "what if," not just "what is." So, dear readers, next time you pick up a debut novel, enjoy the ride of discovering which parts mirror reality and which are the results of the author's vivid imagination. After all, the magic of reading is not just in uncovering hidden truths but also in losing ourselves in the wonders of what could be. If you haven't read my first novel, She Belongs to Me, I challenge you to figure out what's real and where I used poetic license. Hint: What many readers think are fairy-tale parts are actually the real parts. :) Happy reading, and as always, thank you for joining me on this writer's journey. Carmen
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My Characters from Creatus, the Midnight Sons, and The Southern Collection Have Gone on Strike!4/1/2024  Dear Friends, I woke up this morning to an astonishing revelation that left me baffled, intrigued, and, I must admit, a little amused. It appears the characters from the Creatus series, The Southern Collection, and the Midnight Sons have chosen today, of all days, to go on strike. Yes, you read that right! My beloved characters have decided they deserve a day off until I give them what they want. As I tried to negotiate with them—a tricky feat, given their adamant stance on enjoying a bit of leisure—they've presented me with a list of demands. They're quite the imaginative bunch, as you well know. Here are a few of their requests: More Plot Twists: They're craving adventures that are even more labyrinthine and mind-bending. They want you, the readers, to be on the edge of your seats, guessing until the very last page. Exotic Locations for Future Stories: Our Southern charmers are looking to mix it up with the mystical beings from the Creatus universe in locations that span from the enchanting Land of the Noonday Sun in North Carolina to the Land of the Midnight Sun in Alaska. Crossover Cameos: In an unprecedented move, characters from The Southern Collection are negotiating cameo appearances alongside Sam and his team in Alaska to Derrick and the New England Creatus family, who will be soon gathering in Maine. Imagine the rich, Southern charm of Jordan and his friends and the tough Alaska rescue team meeting the secretive, supernatural world. The possibilities are endless! Okay, if you haven’t figured this out yet, this is definitely an April Fools' joke, started by Mike from the Creatus series. Only he would think up something like this. I let him go ahead with it because he’s so fun and lovable, but decided I better offer a peace offering for you, my dear readers. So, on this April Fools' Day, I've enter The Southern Collection into Kindle Unlimited, which means you can read the entire series free with your Kindle Unlimited subscription! If you are not familiar with Kindle Unlimited, you can read more about it on Amazon.com. Until next time, Happy Reading, and, remember, today is a day for laughter, surprises, and, of course, a little bit of mischief. Warmest regards, Carmen DeSousa Follow my newsletter or author pages to stay up-to-date on New Releases, Specials, and Writing Posts.
"I've obviously read too many fairy tales..." When does the fairy tale aspect actually play out?2/9/2024  Let’s face it! We live in a world where few people find their happily ever after, even though most of our childhood stories preached that to us. Wait a minute! Did they? I keep hearing…and I’ve been known to write, “I’ve obviously read too many fairytales...” But when I look back, the fairy tales weren’t all sunshine and roses. In fact, as I wrote in another post of mine, often the characters in what we tag as fairy tales were beaten, banished, orphaned, poisoned, lost, and on and on… So when does the fairy tale aspect actually play out? Is it when the dashing prince on the white stallion sweeps in and they live happily ever after? Chuh! But, hey, the protagonist had to go through many trials to get there. So what’s so bad about that? Personally, I don’t think there’s a problem, except for putting all your dreams in one knight in shining armor who turns out to be a FROG! But you can still work at your happily ever after, with or without the prince or princess, right? Although, in my opinion, I think we’re all looking for someone who completes us. The fact of the matter is a troubled past helps us appreciate a wonderful present. When we experience trials, we often seek out God and loved ones for support and are that much more thankful when the trial ends. So, I don’t have trouble with fairy tales; that’s why I write them -- modern-day fairy tales, that is. I put my characters through trials and tribulations because I know that somewhere, someone can relate. Yes, there’s normally a knight in hidden armor, who usually requires some polishing before he’s fit to be a prince. But again, isn’t that what great relationships do? They feed off each other to become better partners. My husband will often tell people that he is a better person because of me, but you know what? If it weren’t for him, I probably wouldn’t be alive. So, together, we will make our happily ever after by filling each other's weaknesses. If you’re interested, this is what I write about in all of my stories. People who have flaws but learn to overcome, trust when all else fails so they can love again, and forgive so they can know peace. And, yes, there is usually a knight in "hidden" armor, but the heroine has to go through A LOT of trials first. If you haven't read Entangled Dreams, it's available to read FREE with Kindle Unlimited! If you've already read it, Read The Southern Collection books with Kindle Unlimited! Follow my newsletter or author pages to stay up-to-date on New Releases, Specials, and Writing Posts.
My author journey to twenty-six books and an International Bestseller with more than 8500 reviews!1/22/2024  Reflecting on the journey from my first book, She Belongs to Me, published in December 2011, to now releasing my twenty-sixth novel, I'm struck by the remarkable transformation not just in my writing, but in my life as an author. She Belongs to Me is a suspenseful romantic mystery that marked the beginning of a thrilling and fulfilling path. Now, as I prepare to release Creatus Sovereign, I realize how much has changed and yet, how my core storytelling elements have remained the same. When I started, I was driven by a passion for storytelling, creating characters that readers could connect with, and weaving plots that kept them on the edge of their seats. She Belongs to Me is a testament to that passion. It's about a troubled police officer, Jordan Monroe, and Jaynee, a woman with a past she wants to bury. Their story is one of love, secrets, and danger, elements that have remained a constant in my books. Over the years, my writing has evolved. I've grown more confident in my style, and my stories have become more intricate. With each book, I've strived to create a world that readers can immerse themselves in, feel the emotions of the characters, and be a part of their journey. The industry has transformed dramatically since 2011. The rise of digital publishing and social media has changed how authors connect with readers and market their books. I've embraced these changes, engaging with readers through my blog, newsletter, and social media platforms. It's been a journey of learning and adapting, but it's allowed me to reach a wider audience and connect with my avid reading friends in ways I never thought possible. Writing, for me, has always been more than just telling stories. It's about touching lives, sparking emotions, and providing an escape. I've seen this impact through the comments and messages from readers, and it's what keeps me motivated. The joy and satisfaction I get from reading a positive review or hearing how my books have affected someone's life is immeasurable. Reflecting on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for my readers, who've been with me every step of the way. Their support has been my strength, and their enthusiasm has been my inspiration. As I look forward to the future, I am excited about the new stories waiting to be told, the new characters waiting to be brought to life, and the new adventures waiting to be shared. In closing, whether you've been with me since She Belongs to Me (Romantic Suspense) or have just discovered my Creatus Series (Paranormal Romance), and maybe you don’t usually cross over genres, here’s your invitation to read both bestsellers!
If you’ve read all of my books, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Here's to many more stories, adventures, and shared moments! Until next time, Happy Reading! Carmen Follow my newsletter or author pages to stay up-to-date on New Releases, Specials, and Writing Posts.
They're here... The final Creatus Books have Arrived! Pre-Order the Final Book for only $0.99!12/4/2023  As promised, I have continued my commitment to my loyal fans and am offering the final book in the Creatus Series for only $0.99! I know most authors choose to charge full price for their new releases, and don't get me wrong...I get that. I spend a lot of money on new releases, but a promise is a promise, and I know y'all have waited a LONG time. Can you believe this series has been ten years in the making? Man, time flies! Please know, I priced this so YOU and your friends and family would be able to take advantage of the price without having to figure out how to get individual copies to each of you. The retail price will return to normal once it publishes, but your pre-order price assure you get it for $0.99! All right, enough about price... Let's talk about the final two books! :) The ultimate battle starts with Creatus Unyielding and a twist, I assure you, you did NOT see coming. But, as you know by now, this series is about the myths surrounding the creatus species, so get ready for an explosive end, leading to Creatus Sovereign!  In a world where creatus have long remained hidden, Vev, a powerful creatus, must confront her past and use her unique abilities to stop a new, destructive breed of creatus... Read More on Amazon.com! Grab it from your favorite Retailer now! And now, the conclusion to the Creatus Saga, Creatus Sovereign. Creatus, the reason we believe in Fairy Tales—and Monsters.  In this electrifying finale of the Creatus series, Creatus Sovereign delivers a blend of supernatural intrigue and heart-stopping action. Following the riveting confrontation and introduction of reinforcements summoned through a mystical bond in Creatus Unyielding, this installment catapults readers into an epic showdown that might forever reshape the world as we know it. Pre-order for the introductory price of $0.99 on Amazon.com, iTunes, and Nook. Follow my newsletter or author pages to stay up-to-date on New Releases, Specials, and Writing Posts.
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Alex's Atonement, a stand-alone story in the Midnight Sons series is available at all retailers.
For those of you who'd like a glimpse into the inspiration and motivation behind Alex's Atonement, please read on....
Have you ever felt the weight of guilt? A deep-seated burden that claws at you, night and day? Well, imagine carrying that weight for more than ten years. This feeling was the initial spark that birthed Alex's character. Alex is a man grappling with past decisions, constantly tormented by his part in his father's death and the impending doom of his family's company.
Backdrop always plays an immense role in my books, and the frigid expanse of Alaska was the perfect setting for Alex's story. Its harsh environment mirrors the internal conflict of our hero and heroine. The vastness of the landscape, coupled with its biting cold, serves as a metaphor for the isolation and despair that Alex feels.
Then there's Irene. Her character contrasts Alex's in so many ways. Where he is haunted by his past, she's trying to forgive the people in her past. Where he feels an overwhelming weight that makes him feel he can't go on without offering a penance, she’s received a potential terminal diagnosis that makes her re-evaluate everything she's ever known.
The intertwining of these two souls in the desolate beauty of Alaska, especially when they're thrown into a survival situation, brings out the rawness of human emotions. It's about finding hope in the most unexpected of places. It's about facing one's demons head-on and finding redemption.
While crafting their story, I played with elements of trust, or a lack thereof. Irene's reluctance to trust Alex forms the crux of their relationship. And who can blame her? Alex, despite his undeniable charm and skills, is a man on the brink of giving up on life. Irene’s battles, on the other hand, are more internal. She struggles with the reality of her shortening life span, forgiveness, and the ever-looming threat of the drug smugglers.
Writing Alex's Atonement was a journey of delving deep into the complexities of human emotions. Of charting the gray area between right and wrong. It reminded me, as I hope it will remind readers, that often, redemption and atonement come from the most unexpected encounters.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of writing is the process of character development. Watching Alex evolve from a man ready to end it all, to someone willing to face his deepest fears for love, was both challenging and rewarding. Irene, with her fiery spirit, served as the catalyst for this transformation. Their dynamics, their push and pull, breathed life into the pages.
I hope that Alex's Atonement is more than just a thrilling romantic suspense for you. I hope it becomes a tale of hope, redemption, and the transformative power of love. Because, in the end, that’s what all of us seek, isn't it? The assurance that despite our past, despite our demons, we can find our way back to love and light.
So, get ready to be transported to the icy terrains of Alaska, to get lost with Alex and Irene, and to find your way back, filled with hope and warmth.
Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Remember, every hero has his demons, but love might just be the key to redemption.
Until next time, Happy Reading!
Carmen
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 Greetings from the mystical, enigmatic lands of Alaska, the ultimate hiding place of our nation, where secrets are often buried under snow-capped mountains and frigid landscapes. Today, I want to whisk you away on a breathtaking journey of love, secrets, and courageous rescues in my latest novel, Daire's Resolution. Enter the world of Daire Belgarde, the youngest of the Belgarde brothers, who resides in the heart of The Last Frontier. Despite the multitude of skeletons that have already danced their way out of the family's closet, Daire's identity remains the most alluring mystery of all. As if this wasn't enough, Daire grapples with another secret that makes his heart pound a tad too fiercely. He is in love with his boss, Silvia, and therein lies his paradox. To love a coworker can be a gamble, but when that person is your direct supervisor, it's an adventurous dance on thin ice. The fear of revealing his feelings becomes a torment, especially when they virtually live together for their 24-hour shifts. His days off are filled with the thrills of search-and-rescue missions with his Midnight Sons brothers, providing a necessary distraction from his longing for Silvia. Now, imagine Silvia, a woman who dared to conquer death at sixteen and resolved to be a rescue worker. She ran from her past, leaving behind her family, her home, and her identity to make a fresh start in Alaska. But as secrets tend to do, hers lurks menacingly in the shadows, threatening to shatter the life she painstakingly built. Her biggest fear is her past catching up to her or, worse, her loved ones. This very fear forbids her from succumbing to her feelings for Daire. Daire's Resolution is more than a thrilling romance; it's a cocktail of suspense, adventure, love, and the inevitable face-off with one's own past. It showcases the courage to love, even when the circumstances are less than ideal, and the strength to face one's fears. It's a testament to resilience and the power of the human spirit to fight, even when the battle seems almost impossible. I invite you to get lost in the beautiful and haunting landscapes of Alaska, to breathe in the chilly air, to feel the adrenaline rush of high-stakes rescue missions, and to experience the exhilarating roller coaster ride of emotions as Daire and Silvia navigate their lives around a whirlwind of secrets and painful pasts. Let Daire's Resolution keep you company on a cozy evening or a hot day on vacation, pulling you into a world where the heartache of secret love and the thrill of uncovering secrets will leave you breathless and asking for more. Will Daire and Silvia find their way toward each other or lose themselves in the labyrinth of secrets? Only one way to find out. Daire's Resolution is available at all major book retailers! Daire's Resolution is a stand-alone story, but if you'd like to read the collection in order, visit the Midnight Sons Series page on Amazon.com.  Follow my newsletter or author pages to stay up-to-date on New Releases, Specials, and Writing Posts.
 According to the inventors of "Blah, Blah, Blah Day," we should celebrate by doing things that people have been nagging us about. Example: Start eating healthy, quit smoking, clean the garage, get a new job... The thought is that once you do some of these things, you won't hear "blah, blah, blah" anymore! Hmmm... I don't think so. In my experience, no matter what you do or how much of it you do, someone will always want something from you. It also happens to be Malbec World Day, which is something I can get behind! Although I don't like Malbec wine as much as my Portuguese grandmother did, I would prefer a glass of red wine and reading a book over checking off my "Blah, Blah, Blah" list any day. Who's with me? Oh, I forgot to mention that it's also National Kickball Day! Guess what my middle-schoolers will do in P.E. today? Did I tell you I started teaching physical education to K-8? Yep, and today's going to be fun. I will definitely accept one glass of Malbec tonight. I have a few of my books I can recommend as "pairing" suggestions with your wine. And if you don't like wine, no worries. They pair well with other drinks and food, too! Until next time, Happy Reading!
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Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon  Okay, I know…another blog where I reveal I'm just a tad crazy, but then again, all artists have to be a little nuts to dream up the things we create. The funny thing is I’d been thinking about this, and then a Twitter friend sent me this great quote. When I write, I fall in love. Not just with the male protagonist, but all of my characters. Don’t go looking for that straitjacket yet. The difference is I know they are not real, but sometimes I wonder if my heart does. Yesterday, I had to do the obligatory running around: grocery shopping, gym, errands. You know, the stuff we put off until the last minute and then rush around to finish it. Anyway, while I was out, I couldn’t stop thinking about my current work in progress. To the point I actually felt the butterflies of anticipation in my stomach. You remember those. Hey, I’ve been married thirty-three years, but I still remember the anticipation of our first kiss. The ache to see my love every minute of the day. Yes, I still feel that way, but life—as it’s supposed to—carries on and eventually you do have to return to work after the honeymoon is over. My point is, as a writer, I get to experience these feelings every time I start a new book. And hopefully, as the reader, I give you those same feelings, and you do fall in love. Also, did you know that chocolate can release brain soothing chemicals which increase energy and desire levels proven to produce a natural high which elevates a person's mood and is often equated with feeling in love? I say, grab some dark chocolate -- as little sugar as possible -- then prepare to fall in love with a new hero! Check out Derrick and his brother and friends as you venture through the Creatus Saga. While there is an ongoing story, each book is a stand-alone story with new heroes and heroines to cheer on! Until next time, happy reading! Carmen Thank you for stopping by my place and reading my musings. Remember, these are just my opinions and shouldn’t be taken too seriously. If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section, and I promise you I will answer. If you’re curious about what I write, please visit one of my author pages, where you can read all about my novels and short stories. And hey, I’ll even give you a free book just for stopping by.  Follow my newsletter or author pages to stay up-to-date on New Releases, Specials, and Writing Posts.
Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon  In real life, we usually don’t allow the man of our dreams to walk out the front door thinking we’ve been having an affair with his best friend and secretly plan to leave him, but it makes for a great soap opera, and that’s what that is--a soap opera. Yes, my characters won’t know all the facts, but I’ll make sure they think they do. That’s the difference between a soap opera and a suspense novel, I believe. Notice, I wrote "misunderstanding and distrust" in my quote, not "lies and deceit." Without giving anything away, in Sam's Folly, for instance, to make the story work, I needed to make sure that neither the hero nor the heroine knew all of the facts. But also, I had to give them a reason why they couldn't tell the other. That may sound easy, but it's not always as easy as it sounds. When I write, I have to stop and think, "Why wouldn't he tell her he was hired to find her?" If I can't find a reason, I have to rewrite the story! Or, at minimum, I have to rewrite the situation they're in. From there, the mystery spins and turns, revealing suspects, secrets, and truths. The key in my mind is to never trick the reader; I hate that. You know everything the protagonist knows and even a little more, as you get to crawl inside the main characters’ heads. While I know everyone won't always agree with what I write, I certainly do my best to make sure there aren't any holes in the story. So if you love your novel twined with a perfect thread of romance and suspense, but not filled with lies and trickery…just a few secrets, please check out my novels. You can sample a few of them below. Just click the image to read an excerpt right online. No download required! Until next time, happy reading! Carmen Thank you for stopping by my place and reading my musings. Remember, these are just my opinions and shouldn’t be taken too seriously. If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section, and I promise you I will answer. If you’re curious about what I write, please visit one of my author pages, where you can read all about my novels and short stories. And hey, I’ll even give you a free book just for stopping by. Here are a few of my romantic suspense novels with twists you might like! Click an image to read an excerpt online!
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Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon  March 8th is International Women's Day, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. In my little book world, EVERY DAY is International Women's Day! In my stories, I attempt to help my protagonists find a way out of their tragedies and find their happily ever after. The reason I write modern-day fairy tales is because I know somewhere, some woman is going through exactly what I'm writing about, and I want her to know she's NOT alone. One of my favorite stories I penned is Unlucky In Love, the prequel to Some Lucky Woman. The novella is a contemporary women's fiction, featuring a thirty-something divorcee who's trying to figure out where she fits in the world and if she can ever love and trust a man again. Unlucky In Love is not a man-bashing book; instead, it shows Jana's strengths and triumphs, when she lets go and moves on. If you've already read Some Lucky Woman, you've already read Unlucky In Love, as it's now Part One of Jana's three-part story. If you haven't read Some Lucky Woman, you don't have to. Unlucky In Love is a stand-alone story and my gift to you. Simply download the complimentary eBook and read on any eReader, Smartphone, Tablet, or P.C.
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Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon  Let’s face it! We live in a world where few people find their happily ever after, even though most of our childhood stories preached that to us. Wait a minute! Did they? I keep hearing…and I’ve been known to write, “I’ve obviously read too many fairytales...” But when I look back, the fairy tales weren’t all sunshine and roses. In fact, as I wrote in another post of mine, often the characters in what we tag as fairy tales were beaten, banished, orphaned, poisoned, lost, and on and on… So where does the fairy tale aspect actually play out? Is it when the dashing prince on the white stallion sweeps in and they live happily ever after? Chuh! But, hey, the protagonist had to go through many trials to get there. So what’s so bad about that? Personally, I don’t think there’s a problem, except for putting all your dreams in one knight in shining armor who turns out to be a FROG! But you can still work at your happily ever after, with or without the prince or princess, right? Although, in my opinion, I think we’re all looking for someone who completes us. The fact of the matter is a troubled past helps us appreciate a wonderful present. When we experience trials, we often seek out God and loved ones for support and are that much more thankful when the trial ends. So, I don’t have trouble with fairy tales; that’s why I write them -- modern-day fairy tales, that is. I put my characters through trials and tribulations because I know that somewhere, someone can relate. Yes, there’s normally a knight in hidden armor, who usually requires some polishing up before he’s fit to be a prince. But again, isn’t that what great relationships do? They feed off each other to become better partners. My husband will often tell people that he is a better person because of me, but you know what? If it weren’t for him, I probably wouldn’t be alive. So, together, we will make our happily ever after by filling each other's weaknesses. If you’re interested, this is what I write about in all my stories. People who have flaws, but learn to overcome, trust when all else fails so they can love again, and forgive so they can know peace. I even used fairy tale in my original tag line for the Creatus series: Creatus - It is from them we obtain our fairy tales—and our nightmares. They are the reason we believe in superheroes—and monsters. Because…they exist. And, yes, there is a "knight in shining armor," but the heroine has to go through A LOT of trials to find him. If you haven't read the Creatus series yet, the first book, which is actually TWO books, is FREE at all major book retailers or find it on Amazon.com! If you've already read it, find links to the next books in the series or pre-order the new release here!  Thank you for stopping by my place and reading my musings. Remember, these are just my opinions and shouldn’t be taken too seriously. If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section, and I promise you I will answer. Until next time, Happy Reading! Carmen Follow my newsletter or author pages to stay up-to-date on New Releases, Specials, and Writing Posts.
Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon  Isn’t it the truth? Doesn't a great book just take you away? As a reader, I love when a book captures me so completely that I feel lonely when I finish. I can't begin to count how many books I've read more than once to hang out with my friends again, probably the reason I enjoy reading series. No, my books aren't always going to make you smile; in fact, I anger some folks. Why? I'm not sure exactly; maybe it's because my characters are real. They struggle with disappointments, regret, abuse, loss, addiction... But I always give them a way out. Sadly, not all my characters accept the dangling light at the end of the tunnel. To me, that's what makes a reader connect with the characters. Like a good friend, you stand beside them through their ups and down, experience their tragedies and their triumphs, invest in their lives so that you can cheer for them if they obtain their happily ever after. If you're ready to fall in love, solve a mystery, laugh, cry, gasp, have hope for a happily ever after, and most of all just escape for a few hours, try one of my stories. Thank you for stopping by my place and reading my musings. Remember, these are just my opinions and shouldn’t be taken too seriously. If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section, and I promise you I will answer. Looking for that FEELING I mentioned, listed below is a freebie from me and deals from a couple of my authors friends I think you'll enjoy! Until next time, Happy Reading! Carmen
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Happy Valentine's Day, my friends!
Whether you have a date or not, I know most of you still like to snuggle up with a book over this romantic holiday. And what better way to celebrate than with great deals of romantic books? Listed below are a few perfect picks for Valentine's Day from my publisher. All are great books, so grab them today. If that's not cause to feel all warm and cozy, my publisher is also running a giveaway, featuring FREE BOOKS and a Kindle Fire! Hope you enjoy your special day! Happy Reading!
More Great Deals and Kindle Unlimited Specials!
No Perfect Secret - Romantic Suspense, Women's Fiction Until I Die Again - Romantic Suspense with a Supernatural Edge Lonely Heart - Romantic Women's Fiction, Multicultural
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Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon BELIEVE IT!!!! This crust checks all the boxes! Easy 💠 Fast 💠 Tasty 💠 High Protein 💠 Low Calorie 💠 Budget Friendly  This recipe makes about a 9-inch crust, but you can double it for a larger pizza.  I don't share difficult recipes. The recipes I share are designed that you can download the image to your Smartphone. That way you can just prop up your phone and cook away! So, the next image is just that, the complete recipe on on photocard. If you have additional questions, just reply to this post, and I'll help out in any way I can. Now, I'll be the first to admit that I don't stick to a strict KETO diet. Instead, I watch my calories, and I limit sugary and high-carb foods. As I said above, this crust clicks all the boxes, weighing in at about 220 calories, 1.5 net carbs, and a whopping 39 grams of protein, thanks to the crust being nearly 100% egg whites and pea protein. Even after I add MY pizza sauce and veggie toppings, I get a delicious and satisfying pizza for less than 400 calories! Don't have pea protein? Run out and get some today because it's worth it! For the record, I use Anthony's Premium Pea Protein. If you buy a large bag, this crust, including the price of eggs, comes out to be about $1.50. It's WAYYYY cheaper and less carbs than those icky cauliflower crusts. Sorry. I'm just not a fan! Also, you don't have to use a cast-iron skillet, but I highly recommend it. I keep my skillet in the oven, seasoned and ready to go. One quick note: After you pre-cook the crust on the parchment paper, remove the paper and then cook right in the pan! YUMMY! Oh, and since you're going to want to make this crust all the time, you're going to have a lot of yolks hanging around. No problem, just make sure you sign up for my newsletter, as I'll be sharing the easiest and yummiest keto dessert you've ever had as well as my plant-based sausage marinara sauce over the next few weeks.  Oh, and if you want something to read while you're cooking and eating, "Down on Her Luck," a thirty-something chick lit with a hint of romance and humor, pairs well with this yummy dish! Grab it from your favorite retailer now!
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Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon  Well, let's look at a couple definitions... ROMANCE: NOUN a novel or other prose narrative depicting heroic or marvelous deeds, pageantry, romantic exploits, etc., usually in a historical or imaginary setting: the colorful world, life, or conditions depicted in such tales. Marvelous deeds? Imaginary setting? Tales? Come on!!! That's not what romance is! No wonder readers -- people in general ... MEN -- get confused. I'd like to think that I'm living a romance because my husband does romantic things. When he surprises me with a mini-vacation, sends me cute little text messages, gives me sweet gifts, cleans the house before I get home, kisses me sweetly when I don't expect it... That's romantic, so doesn't it make sense that we're living in a ROMANCE story. Let's take a look at the words that define love: Profoundly tender Passionate affection Personal attachment Deep affection Sexual passion Desire Ahh... That's better! So why do we define books as contemporary romance, romantic suspense, paranormal romance, romantic comedy, romantic mystery, and romantic thriller? For the record, I wish there was another word other than "romantic" to describe what I write. Funny that they don't have a genre called "Love-Suspense Novel," since according to the definition, it would work better. Even though when I think of a "love story," the first thing that comes to my mind is the movie Love Story or Romeo and Juliet, and I certainly don't write that!!! The fact of the matter is ... I don't write romances either. I don't write about fanciful events leading up to the characters falling in love. I write about a love that went wrong. Love that started on the rocks and went through tragedies, or love stories that are surrounded by a life-threatening event, a murder mystery, secret pasts, on the run, mistakes... And sometimes, I write about a love that never happened that should have...like the one below. Not sure if many readers know this, but many websites don't even have options for women's fiction, chick lit, or romantic suspense; they have ROMANCE!!! That's it!!!! And sadly, some readers see the tag "romance," and they immediately think of a shirtless Fabio sweeping a half-dressed woman off her feet. My only answer is to try like heck to tell readers in the description EXACTLY what kind of romance you're getting when you download my books! So, read the description and take a chance on one of my romances... Here's One! A Thirty-Something Chick Lit with a Hint of Romance & Humor Or should I say, a Hint of Love...??? I'll let you decide!
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Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon 
No matter what you do in life, a third of the people will love you (5 STARS), a third will hate you (1 STAR), and the rest will be indifferent (3 STARS). This rule drives elections, surveys, polls, and I’m sure you’ve run into it in your life or workplace. Possibly, someone didn't like you, no matter how nice you were. Or, your job depends on good reviews. Nowadays, nearly anyone who deals with the public is subject to a review.
Instead of crying over that person you couldn't please no matter what you did, get over it and CARRY ON!
Yes, I'm talking to myself. If you're listening, GREAT! It's good advice! Is it easy advice? Heck No!
Thank goodness that ALL of the 33 1/3% of the people who don't like something, don't write reviews. On average, less than 5% of consumers give one-star reviews, so why do we get so depressed when we receive a one-star review? Why do we readily believe what less than five percent of people tell us, instead of embracing the 95%?
I'm certain I'm not alone in this, right? When I receive a three, four, or five-star review, I'm always happy. But I don't run around and cheer. I smile, release a breath that it was a good review, and then carry on with my life.
BUT...when I get a one-star review... My head drops, my heart rate increases, I almost always stop what I'm doing and sulk a bit. Sometimes I run to the pantry for some dark chocolate, read the review to my hubby who says, "I'm sorry, babe," which makes me feel fractionally better. If I'm really put off, I'll do something drastic like writing a blog post. Umm...like this one.
Why do I do this to myself? Why do I care? Hey, she didn't even attack my writing. All she did was write, "The main character is not a nice person." So what? Didn't 95% of the people write, “Entertaining and upbeat. I liked the steady pace, and the characters were likable.” — Vine Voice Reviewer Yep, they did. : )
If you don't feel better about that one-star person in your life, let me tell you about an exercise I used to do. I don't have to do this exercise anymore, because even though I sulk a bit when I read a one-star review, I really have learned to take poor reviews with a grain of salt. We need one-star reviews. If we never receive one-star reviews, other readers would wonder. Because even if you've never heard about the Rule of Thirds that I mentioned above, almost everyone knows that you can't please everyone.
If everyone says they love you, someone is lying.
Oh, the exercise. Look up your favorite book, movie, music, art, play, or whatever of all time, preferably a bestseller that's been loved by millions worldwide. Check out the one-star reviews, read a few. I guarantee they have more one-star reviews than you do.
And for all of you lovely readers out there, it's okay to give a one-star review. Just remember there's a person behind the book, movie, or music that you're reviewing. So please remember to keep it constructive. <3
If you'd like to decide if you like my characters, Down on Her Luck is one of my books where readers either LOVE or HATE the main character. Not sure what there is to hate about Alaina. She's trying her darndest to turn her luck and life around. What's so wrong about that? Aren't we all? Well, I'll let you decide. ;)
Read an excerpt right here!
Thank you for stopping by my place and reading my musings. Remember, these are just my opinions and shouldn't be taken too seriously. If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section, and I promise you I will answer. I love talking about all things books, so if you want more posts on writing, marketing, new releases, and giveaways, please leave your email address here. I only send out a post a few times a month at the most.
Until next time, happy reading and writing, friends!
Carmen
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Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon  We authors are an eclectic bunch; we have to be. How else could we design the multitude of characters needed to create a work of fiction? In every story there must be a protagonist, most know this, but... Without an archenemy, be it a person, a character flaw, or a psychosis, where would the conflict stem? If we as writers cannot imagine — get into the heads of — different emotional aspects of characters, how could ALL the characters be believable? It's easy to design a protagonist after yourself or even someone you know. But how do you create a character whose mind you never really want to be a part of in the first place? Research is one way, tons of it. But you also have to possess the ability to identify with the psyche of someone you'd rather not understand. You have to put yourself in their shoes, recognize they are people. They may be the "bad guys," but they typically have families, go to work, and play just like the rest of us. A truly believable character must have some normal human characteristics, or he or she won't be believable -- yes, I like a woman to be the "bad guy" sometimes. Yes, they may be the "bad guys," but they still live, work, and socialize in the real world. Oftentimes, they are our co-workers, next door neighbors, friends, or heaven forbid, our relatives. And sometimes, the "bad guy," may grow and no longer be the bad guy. That happens, too. Sometimes, we as people learn from our mistakes and no longer want to live as the "bad guy." Want to see how I blend the good and the bad with all my characters, as they all have a little of both? Click one of the links below for a little more about what I write. My stories are available in eBook, print, and audiobook formats at your favorite retailer. I'll even give you a free book just for stopping by. From there, all my stories are priced "less than a latte" each so you can afford to READ UP and enjoy!
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Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon  NOTE: Beards, tattoos, height, body build, and few other exterior attributes are the differences between alpha and sigma males; it's their mindset. Alphas are usually at the top, Betas follow, and Sigmas don’t fit a standard mold. Read on for a better explanation of these two archetypes. In recent years, the Alpha Male and Sigma Male have emerged as popular character archetypes in romantic suspense novels. While both types of characters may possess strong personalities and leadership qualities, there are some key differences between them that set them apart. First, let’s define what I mean by an Alpha Male. The Alpha Male is the traditional strong, confident, and assertive male character. He is often the leader of the pack, who is not afraid to take charge in most situations. Often, he is the person in control, and his confidence and assertiveness are often seen as attractive to the female protagonist. Alpha Males in a novel are typically powerful, domineering, and confident. On the other hand, the Sigma Male is a more recent archetype that has emerged in literature. A Sigma Male is often seen as an outsider, someone who doesn’t fit into the traditional Alpha Male mold. They tend to be more introverted, and they are not as concerned with fitting in with the crowd. They often possess a strong sense of self and self-reliance, and they are not afraid to question the status quo. They can be more mysterious and less predictable than Alpha Males. Sigma Males in a novel are often seen as mysterious and enigmatic. Second, the Alpha Male and Sigma Male usually have different approaches to relationships. Alpha Males tend to be more dominant and are often the ones who take the lead. They are not afraid to make the first move, and they are often seen as the ones who are in control. They may also be more possessive and jealous, and may not be as open to compromise in a relationship. Sigma Males, on the other hand, tend to be more independent and less interested in being in charge of a relationship. They are not as likely to make the first move, and they may be more reserved in expressing their feelings. They may be more comfortable in being equal partners with the other person and not needing to be in the lead role. They may also be more open to communication and compromise. Lastly, the Alpha Male and Sigma Male have different approaches to solving problems. Alpha Males tend to be more assertive, and they are often the first to take action. They are not afraid to confront a problem head-on, and they may use force to solve it if needed. They are often seen as confident problem solvers. Sigma Males, however, tend to be more thoughtful and introspective. They may not be as quick to take action, but they are more likely to take a step back and consider all options before making a decision. They may be more likely to use tact and diplomacy to solve problems, instead of brute force. They can be more strategic and use unconventional methods to achieve their goals. While both archetypes can be interesting and complex characters, I realize one or the other might appeal to different readers and play different roles in the story. Personally, while some of my male characters might have one area where they seem Alpha-like, nearly all of my male characters are Sigma Males. Personal preference plays out in my stories, I guess. 😊 Comments Welcome! What Say You? Did you know there was a difference between Alpha and Sigma Males? Do you have a preference? What books have you read lately that you can clearly see the difference in the types of characters? Until next time, happy reading! Carmen Thank you for stopping by my place and reading my musings. Remember, these are just my opinions and shouldn’t be taken too seriously. If you have questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section, and I promise you I will answer. If you’re curious about what I write, please visit one of my author pages, where you can read all about my novels and short stories. And hey, I’ll even give you a free book just for stopping by. Find all my books at your favorite book retailer in eBook, Paperback, and Audio! Amazon US - Amazon Worldwide Google Play iTunes Kobo Barnes & Noble Audible Chirp Audiobooks My books featuring some of my favorite Sigma Male Leads!
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