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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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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Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon  One of the things I've noticed about novels and movies is that, over the last few decades, writers have portrayed the majority of men to be cold-hearted, uncaring men who need to be tamed. Maybe it’s because my father raised me, but I never saw this. In fact, throughout my years, I’ve seen just the opposite. Most of the men I’ve known have loved women to their own detriment. I wondered: how can I prove men have feelings, love deeply, heart and soul? Anyone remember Silly Love Songs by Paul McCartney and Wings? I started thinking about that song, and I was off and running! Here's what I found! Note: This isn’t one of those infallible, never-slanted polls taken by Fox or CNN (insert laughter). I did this on my own. I chose not to look at just one source, but many. I decided the best way to prove men have feelings was to use their own words. I researched Billboard, Top 100, Country’s Best, and several other music lists to find the top love songs in all genres, across all ages. And then, I looked up who wrote the lyrics, because that’s what really matters, right? Surprise… I was right! Of course, if I hadn't been, you wouldn’t have seen this post. (more laughter) Would it shock you to hear that ninety percent of all love songs — in every genre — were written by men. Many of those gooey, sweet love songs we love, even the ones sung by women, came out of a man’s mind. Why does this interest me? Because I write about strong male characters "sigma alphas" (more on that next week) who, though they may seem controlling at times, love deeply with all of their heart and soul. My leads are willing to do anything to get, keep, and protect the women they love. So, if you enjoy reading romantic suspense stories with strong male protagonists, you might love my novels. Below are the firsts in many of my series with, you guessed it, sigma heroes. Oh, in case you're wondering, my women aren't too weak either. Even if they start out that way, they tend to grow by the end. 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.
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Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon  Paranormal romance is a subgenre of romance that combines elements of fantasy, science fiction, and horror with romantic relationships. These books often feature supernatural creatures such as vampires, werewolves, angels, demons, shape-shifters, and/or magical powers, alternate worlds, and mythological beings. They can range from light and playful to dark and intense, and appeal to a wide audience of readers. We enjoy paranormal romance novels, both as a form of escapism and as a way to explore our own emotions and desires. First, paranormal romance novels offer a chance to escape from the mundane and the ordinary. These books provide a rich and imaginative world where anything is possible, and readers can experience adventures and encounters that are beyond their everyday lives. Whether it's fighting against evil forces, discovering hidden abilities, or falling in love with a mysterious and enigmatic hero/heroine, paranormal romance novels provide a sense of excitement and wonder that can be hard to find in the real world. Second, paranormal romance novels often feature strong and complex characters who are capable, independent, and confident. These characters are often the main protagonists and the driving force behind the story, and they are portrayed as intelligent, resourceful, and determined. They may have to overcome challenges and adversity, but they are always resilient and brave, and they never give up on their goals or their loved ones. Through these characters, readers can see themselves reflected and empowered, and they can find role models and inspiration for their own lives. Third, paranormal romance novels often deal with themes and issues that are relevant and relatable. These books can explore relationships, family, friendships, self-discovery, identity, and personal growth in a way that is meaningful and poignant. They can also delve into social and cultural issues such as gender roles, sexism, racism, and discrimination, and offer a commentary on these issues through the lens of the supernatural. By reading paranormal stories, we can not only get lost in a different world, but also gain insights and perspectives on our own lives and the world around us. Fourth, paranormal romance novels can provide a sense of emotional satisfaction and fulfillment. These books often focus on the development of romantic relationships, and they usually have a happy ending where the main characters find love and happiness. While the romance may be unconventional and may involve obstacles and conflicts, it is always passionate, intense, and genuine. Through these stories, we can experience the thrill and the joy of falling in love and feel a sense of emotional connection and validation. Finally, paranormal romance novels can offer a sense of community and belonging. These books have a large and dedicated fan base, and many readers enjoy discussing and debating their favorite books and characters with others. There are also many online groups, forums, and blogs where readers can share their thoughts, opinions, and experiences, and find like-minded people who share their interests and passions. By joining this community, we can feel a sense of belonging and support, and we can find a place where we can be ourselves and express ourselves freely. So what do you say? What do you like or not like about paranormal romance? Personally, I want to believe, the reason I set my paranormal stories in our world. They could be your neighbor or the employee sitting across from you. When you read my paranormal books, I want you to wonder: "What if?" Discover the mysteries of the Creatus series. Start the series FREE NOW! Oh, and if you're all caught up, the ultimate battle starts now with the release of Creatus Unyielding! Pre-order now for only $0.99!  Follow my newsletter or author pages to be the first to know about new releases, specials, and writing posts!
The Battle Starts Now! Creatus Unyielding is available to pre-order. Start the series Free today!12/13/2022 For four thousand years, creatus have hidden their existence from humans. But now a faction of militaristic creatus has a weapon, a being so fierce that its legacy of death and destruction has fed nightmares for millennia. One woman has the power to stop the new breed—by creating an army of creatus capable of protecting humans from annihilation. But sometimes you can’t control what you create. READ MORE! Pre-order at the introductory price! If you haven't started the series, you can do that now — absolutely FREE!
Thank you to all my avid-reading friends who have been so patient with me on releasing this series. As many of you know, I've been through too many injuries and personal issues to even talk about. Plus, I have to do what my agent thinks is best--and so I had to step away a bit to work on other projects. But now, yay, I can finish what I started! As always, because of your patience, I am offering this new release for only $0.99 on pre-order, so you folks don't miss the best deal. So please don't wait! My publisher is not happy about it, as we all have bills, so the price will go to retail the day it's released. Happy New Year, my friends! I hope you all have a happy and healthy 2023! Carmen Follow my newsletter or author pages to stay up-to-date on New Releases, Specials, and Writing Posts!
Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon  I'm a fan of Wikipedia for general research, not quotable text. It's a great place to start, as it usually has a great compilation of information from other sources. Often, when I Google a question, Wikipedia is the first page to pop up. So I tend to begin my search on the most “clicked on” page, and then I dig deeper based on my findings. In the case of my mysteries, especially where the cause of death and ways to die are an essential part of the story, I seek out scientific journals and experts in that specific field. There, that's my disclosure. On to my blog post. :) Recently, I had a quick question on the popularity of short stories. I agreed with Wikipedia until I read ... "Sometimes, authors who do not have the time or money to write a novella or novel decide to write short stories instead..." — Wikipedia Say, WHAT??? Umm ... wrong! How on earth does a short story cost less? Most authors spend the same dollar amount on their cover, and it doesn't cost anything to upload it to Amazon. Time ... maybe ... but even that seems silly, as authors who write short stories, usually write many of them. I think authors write short stories because they enjoy writing short stories, especially in between large projects or while waiting for their editor or publisher to finish reading their current project. "Short stories date back to oral storytelling traditions which originally produced epics such as Homer's Iliad and Odyssey circa 7th or 8th century" — Wikipedia, again (I didn't see the need to research further.) Charles Dickens and Washington Irving — who were famous for novels and biographies — wrote short stories and, of course, Edgar Allan Poe argued that a literary work should be short enough for a reader to finish in one sitting. And yet, when I went looking for advertising, I found it almost impossible to find a website that was willing to promote my short stories ... even if I were willing to pay the same amount as I would to advertise a full novel. I also noticed many publishers refuse to publish short stories, which as far as money goes, I can understand that. They would have to shell out money for a cover for little return. And now for the craziest thought, considering what Wikipedia said about money. I wrote my short stories, knowing I was going to give them away. Yep. I wrote my first short, The Pit Stop (This Stop Could be Life or Death), as an exercise in “pantsing” versus “plotting” and to have fun with my readers, which a lot of them happened to be authors. I wrote five hundred words a week on my website, and then asked readers where we should go next. When I finished, I informed them I'd publish it and pay tribute to my top contributors. But then something happened! My lovely readers demanded more — I love it when that happens. Per readers' requests, I wrote The Depot (When Life and Death Cross Tracks). And then, based on those two short stories — again per readers' demands — I wrote a follow-up novel, The Library (Where Life Checks Out). And with no awesome book advertising, but because of word of mouth from some great readers, The Pit Stop and The Depot hit #1 in Mystery Short Stories and spent plenty of time in the top 100 in the last few years. When I received my rights back from my publisher, I had to re-upload them. Again they the hit #1 and #2 spots! The Pit Stop is still available as a free download, but I decided to combine The Depot with its follow-up novel, The Library, so readers wouldn't happenstance on The Library and miss the set up. My thoughts on short stories: An average movie is one and a half to two hours long, and yet, it can still convey a full life — from birth to death — of a character. We can solve a ten-year-old murder mystery, or view a first date as it matures into marriage and kids. So why wouldn't I like a quick escape when I'm sitting at the DMV, waiting in the doctor's office, or a hundred other places where we waste hours of our time? The answer is: I do like that. In fact, I love it! I've read many short stories on car trips across the state, flights, and waiting while my car gets serviced. Side note...have you noticed how many movies are based on short stories? Short stories are a great way to meet an author without a long-term commitment or a nice release when you need just a little escape before going to bed, since there's no risk of staying up too late to finish the story, as most short stories take less than an hour to read. Well, that's it. Just my thoughts on why I write and read short stories. And so you know, I would never think to compare myself to the "greats" I mentioned above; they were just my point that short stories can be great and are an art. I have a long way to go, but my short stories do have hundreds of reviews averaging four-plus stars. So if you want to try one on for size, you can download The Pit Stop (This Stop Could be Life or Death) absolutely FREE from your favorite retailer. I hope you enjoy this quick escapes from reality! Start the collection FREE today!
Thank you for 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 couple free full-length novels just for stopping by. As always, happy reading, friends. Carmen DeSousa Food in Books... "Please, sir, I want some more." Plus, my coveted recipe for easy Baklava Bites!11/17/2022  I don't know what made me think of this last night while I was making dinner, but I said to my husband, "Remember all our childhood books... Remember how many of them not only mentioned food, but FOOD was a major contributor to the story?" Sometimes it was the character's mission: to find food. And often, a certain food was a character's downfall. The more I thought about it, the more books I remembered, so I set out on a mission to find the top 100 children's books of all time, and then I tried to remember if those books featured FOOD! I forgot how many books I actually read as a child! Hopefully, you'll have a few good memories, too! By now, you're probably trying to think of all the books you loved as a child and remember if the stories centered around food. I'll save you the brain power...
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe - Edmund betrays his family for Turkish Delight! Hansel & Gretel - Man, that was a rough one! The father has to take the kids in the woods and try to get them lost because they don't have enough food, and then the witch, of course, attracts children with a Gingerbread House! Hunger Games - While I don't feel Hunger Games is a children's book, it's labeled as such, and it's all about food--the lack of it!!! Winnie the Pooh - Of course, everyone remembers how MUCH Pooh ate and ended up stuck in Rabbit's tree. Where the Wild Things Are - The story starts when his mother sends him to bed without his supper! Snow White - The famous red apple. Three Bears, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Giving Tree, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, Secret Garden, and on and on... I started wondering WHY all these beloved children's books featured food or lack of food as a primary focus, and then it dawned on me. Most of these books were written around the Great Depression. I remember all the stories my grandmother would tell me how if they got a piece of candy, they would try to divide it into six pieces. I certainly never starved as a child, but we didn't have much food in the house. A ginormous box of Corn Flakes, a huge jar of generic peanut butter, and bread from the day-old bread store were our staples. I always loved going to my aunt's house because her pantry was always stocked. Because of going without as a child, food has always been a priority to me. My pantry is always stocked. Without a doubt, I'd go without electricity before a stocked pantry. And there went my brain again, making me wonder, do I place a focus on food in my books? I do, I realized.
Yep, it seems food isn't just for fuel. It's such a part of my life that I enjoy reading and writing about it! How about you? I welcome your thoughts on this crazy-long post! What books did you love as a child? Did you recognize the focus on food? Which classic children's books did I forget? The Recipe! Please note: I use super simple instructions for my recipes, as I like to save them in my phone. If you have any questions, feel free to reply to this email, and I'll gladly help. I re-invented my original recipe that I learned in Tarpon Springs, Florida to make it easy to travel and serve. For parties, simply triple the recipe to make 45. The great thing about Baklava is that it is even better the next day, and it doesn't have to be refrigerated. Also, by making them in the shells instead of the sheets I used to use, they are portion controlled and easier to share! Also, I use Country Crock plant butter, and I swear it tastes just as yummy as my original recipe! You can certainly use real butter. Wish I still could!!!! :)  Want more writing tidbits and super easy recipes, subscribe to my Newsletter!
Want first-hand news of new release and book sales, follow me on BookBub or Amazon! Three generations of secrets… Three murders… And the dead won't rest until the murderer checks out, too.  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“The plot is intricate, while also being easy to follow...The paranormal aspect is well done. While not the central focus, the ghosts offer just enough to give Mark — and readers — something to think about.” — TOP 100 REVIEWER VINE VOICE Detective Mark Waters tackles an eerie case that raises questions he never thought he’d ask… Is it possible that a woman murdered 80 years ago is working from beyond the grave? Just like Kindle and Audible, all you do is click and download, then listen via your smartphone, tablet, or PC. And, yes, there's even a Free Alexa Skill if you like to listen through your Alexa-enabled device or speaker. Get your copy now! Prefer to read via the eBook, no problem. Find The Library at your favorite retailer! Follow my newsletter or author pages to stay up-to-date on New Releases, Specials, and Writing Posts!
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