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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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
Want to read a sample? You can do that right here!
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 “My name is Silvia Markow,” she droned. “Birth date, August 28. I am twenty-six years old.” She recited the social security number she’d had to memorize, the new driver’s license number. City and state of birth. Harvey dropped a mouthful of kibble on the yellowed linoleum floor, then chomped on individual bites, staring up at her as she recited the essential information. She inhaled through her nose for a count of four, held her breath for seven counts, then slowly exhaled through her mouth with a whooshing sound. “I am safe. My mother is safe. My sister is safe.” Crumbs of dog chow fell from Harvey’s thick jowls. She stared down at Harvey and smiled. “And I have a ginormous adopted baby who won’t let anything happen to me.” Daire's Resolution is HERE! Stand-Alone Story--No Cliffhanger!  Secrets. . . Daire Belgarde knows that Alaska is the hiding place of the nation. Nearly everyone who moves to The Last Frontier is running from someone or hiding something. And now, the woman he loves is keeping a secret, too. A deadly one! READ MORE What readers are saying about the Midnight Sons... ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Suspense and sensual romance are expertly combined in this riveting story." — Goodreads (Sam's Folly) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "An escape into the remote wilderness, with scenes that'll take your breath away and characters you can't help but love." — TOP 100 VINE VOICE (Alex's Atonement) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Suspense, Romance, Action, and Drama…Midnight Sons Series Has IT ALL!" — Goodreads (Vince’s Chance) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "This series just keeps getting better!" — Goodreads (Erik’s Revelation) 
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Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon Are you caught up? The final book in the Midnight Sons Alaska Search-and-Rescue series is here!5/16/2022 When Erik Belgarde sets off to find the truth about his past, he encounters Kimi Bennett, a woman running from hers.  Secrets… Daire Belgarde knows that Alaska is the hiding place of the nation. Nearly everyone who moves to The Last Frontier is running from someone or hiding something. And now, the woman he loves is keeping a secret, too. A deadly one! Follow my newsletter or author pages to stay up-to-date on New Releases, Specials, and Writing Posts!
Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon
Available at all major book retailers!
Stand-Alone Story - No Cliffhanger!
Women's Fiction, Romantic Suspense
While searching for answers about his past, Erik witnesses a runaway horse and runs head-on into Kimi Bennett — literally. Although they constantly butt heads, he can’t help but admire how she loves horses and his beautiful home state of Alaska. When authorities start asking questions about the new horse whisperer in town, though, and Kimi disappears, Erik realizes their future together is what matters most and calls on his Midnight Sons brothers to find Kimi before her past catches up to her… READ MORE
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Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon
You already know Erik!
Today, meet Kimi! 
Erik's Revelation is a stand-alone story, as are all the books in the Midnight Sons series. However, if you want to start from the beginning, start with Sam's Folly!
Want to catch up? Click on any of the covers to learn more!
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When Erik Belgarde sets off to find the truth about his past, he encounters Kimi Bennett, a woman running from her present… Erik remembers the day Adam Belgarde found him in the forest. He remembers the day Adam brought him home to Claire Belgarde and his new brothers. Erik grew up with everything a child could want: a mother and father who loved him, who came to his rescue when he had night terrors, who greeted him with the same loving smiles and hugs they offered their own children. The love of his adopted family had made it possible for Erik to suppress the memory of the couple screaming at each other, waiting for their wrath to turn his way. As far as he knew, his real parents had died in the woods, and Adam Belgarde had rescued him. Now he discovers it was all a lie… The Belgardes lied to him from the beginning. Why? While searching for answers about his past, Erik witnesses a runaway horse and runs head-on into Kimi Bennett — literally — while trying to rescue a child. Although Erik and Kimi constantly butt heads, he can’t help but admire how she loves horses and his beautiful home state of Alaska. When authorities start asking questions about the new horse whisperer in town, though, and Kimi disappears, Erik realizes their future together is what matters most and calls on his Midnight Sons brothers to find Kimi before her past catches up to her. What readers are saying about the Midnight Sons series: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "An Alaskan Adventure... Who doesn't love a bad boy? Match him with a tough, independent female, and you have a dream couple!" -- TOP 100 VINE VOICE (Sam's Folly)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Suspense and sensual romance are expertly combined in this riveting story." -- AVP (Sam's Folly) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "An escape into the remote wilderness, with scenes that'll take your breath away and characters you can't help but love." -- TOP 100 VINE VOICE (Alex's Atonement) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Suspense and romance with a good storyline." -- Goodreads (Alex's Atonement) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Realistic, emotional read." -- TOP 100 VINE VOICE (Vince's Chance) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "More complex than you average romance... As it moved along, I was sitting in my chair finishing the book (for a couple of hours) instead of fixing dinner.." -- AVP (Vince's Chance) Nearly all my books are available in ALL formats, so you have a choice!  "For the first time ever, US audiobook SALES have eclipsed eBook sales!" -- GoodEreader.com (06/2020) Me... I still like to read!!! But... I find that I like to flip back and forth between the eBook and the audiobook. Not always, but nearly always, when an audiobook is offered at a discounted price with the purchase of an eBook, I'll snatch it up. Why? Because, like most of you, I'm always running, and I hate to stop reading. I can literally start reading with my Kindle in bed, then ask Alexa to "Play my Audiobook" in the kitchen while I'm making coffee, then I hop into my car, and it flips to the speakers, then while I'm shopping or waiting in line, I can either plug in my earbuds or flip to my Kindle App on my phone. And I never lose my place!
Typically, you can add the narration for $7.95! And since I always price my books for "less than a latte" at Starbucks, you can get the eBook AND the audiobook for less than ONE eBook from some publishers! My New Release in now available! READ FREE via Kindle Unlimited! Audiobook for $5.99 Paperback for $8.99 Hardback for $14.99
And now for the news you've all been waiting for... The new Midnight Sons books are almost here! I will announce the pre-order dates for the next two books, featuring Erik and Daire, in a few weeks! But here's a first look at the covers! So you don't miss the pre-order date and get the best price... Follow my BookBub page and/or Newsletter!
All the books are stand-alone stories. However, I do believe they're better read in order, so if you haven't started, catch up now, as the release dates will be up in a few weeks! Learn more on Amazon.com. Or CLICK the icon of your favorite retailer for more info!
Are you still with me???
If there's an audiobook of mine you'd like to try, reply to this email, and it's yours! Don't know which one you'd like? See my full list here! Until next time, Happy Reading, my friends! 
The last thing Sam Belgarde has time for is to tramp through the Alaska wilderness chasing a spoiled socialite, especially when he discovers she’s the mystery woman who stole his heart then stood him up. But the reward her fiancé offered will save his family’s struggling search & rescue company, so he’ll bend the rules just this once. Once he finds Nora Molina, however, things get tricky. They’re both keeping secrets. She’s obviously running from something — or someone — and they’re having trouble fighting the heat between them. Making matters worse, someone wants them to stay lost in the wilderness…permanently. What readers are saying about the Midnight Sons... ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "An Alaskan Adventure... Who doesn't love a bad boy? Match him with a tough, independent female, and you have a dream couple!" -- TOP 100 VINE VOICE
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Suspense and sensual romance are expertly combined in this riveting story." -- AVP ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "An escape into the remote wilderness, with scenes that'll take your breath away and characters you can't help but love." -- TOP 100 VINE VOICE ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Suspense and romance with a good storyline." -- Goodreads
To show her he's the hero she once loved, he must find her son...
Chinitna Bay, Alaska
Determined to give the woman he loves closure and win back her heart, Vince embarks on an all-out manhunt for her missing son. What he discovers, though, might be a death warrant for him and the woman he can’t lose again.
What readers are saying about the Midnight Sons series:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "An Alaskan Adventure... Who doesn't love a bad boy? Match him with a tough, independent female, and you have a dream couple!" -- TOP 100 VINE VOICE (Sam's Folly)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Suspense and sensual romance are expertly combined in this riveting story." -- AVP (Sam's Folly) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "An escape into the remote wilderness, with scenes that'll take your breath away and characters you can't help but love." -- TOP 100 VINE VOICE (Alex's Atonement) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Suspense and romance with a good storyline." -- Goodreads (Alex's Atonement)
For more info or to download, visit Amazon.com.
Vince's Chance is stand-alone story. However, if you'd like to meet all the Midnight Sons, you can find links to the series at all major book retailers.
 Y'all probably thought I was kidding when I said I was going to offer three books back to back. BUT, the Midnight Sons are here!!! I hope you enjoy this new series of strong but gentle heroes and tough but tender heroines, all set in the beautiful state of Alaska! The Midnight Sons ~ Men as Wild and Rugged as The Last Frontier Itself Five brothers risk their lives to rescue those caught in the death grip of the Alaskan wilderness…and risk losing their hearts to women as tough as the Land of the Midnight Sun. The siren call of Alaska’s untamed wilderness, vast mountain ranges, and majestic glaciers draws thrill-seekers from around the globe. But with more unsolved missing-person cases than anywhere else in the world, the Alaska Triangle has an ominous reputation. Enter the Midnight Sons, five brothers who risk their lives to rescue those in peril. Being a hero isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, though. The pay sucks, as does the fact that the team leaders have to be ready to spring into action 24/7, 365 days a year—a lifestyle not conducive to a healthy love life. Worse, while the brothers are experts in their individual fields, they each harbor inner demons and secrets that threaten to tear their family apart… and jeopardize any chance of finding the women who could complete them. All three novels are available to order from your favorite retailer!
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