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.
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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.
Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon  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  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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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  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!
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Dear Friend,
My wish for you is that 2021 is everything you hope for! Your best year ever!!! My New Year's Goal... I'm going to try to write more and worry less! After all, and I'll quote since no one says it better: "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his/her life?" And since I know you are an avid reader like me, I'm offering FREE Audiobooks so you get more reading in your life, which IMHO, leads to less stress. If you're new to my books, check out the FREE eBooks listed after the audiobooks and my new releases and pre-order! Happy New Year! Carmen
Choose your FREE audiobook from this selection!
Not sure which title to pick, choose from the genre! Or visit my Amazon.com Audiobook Page for more info on all my audiobooks.
Fill out my online form.
New to my books, grab these FREE Bestsellers!
Newly Released and Coming Soon!
Take advantage of your time at home!!! Read!!! Since many are out of work right now, I'm going to lighten your load. I'm offering three of my bestselling First-In-Series Books absolutely FREE, so please share with your friends! For those of you who've already read these books, let me know which of my follow-up books you'd like. If I have a coupon for it, it's YOURS! Only exclusions are the Midnight Sons series, since Amazon hasn't given me coupons for them yet. AND...if that's not enough... How about some FREE audiobooks to chase away cabin fever! Ask and you shall receive...any of my audiobooks!!! Simply email me: Carmen @ CarmenDeSousa . com, and it's yours! Hurry! Once I'm out, I'm out!  Derrick's desire to save one human girl will ignite a war... For four thousand years, creatus have concealed themselves from the humans who hunted them almost to extinction. Unwittingly, one creatus will endanger them all... In his quest to protect the woman he can never have, a twist of faith propels him into a role that will cause dissension among his family and endanger the anonymity that they've spent thousands of years protecting. Now, he will risk everything to save the girl from humans and his own kind. The one thing he can't save her from, however...is herself. This 2-book set is FREE at all major eBook retailers! Download from Amazon.com now! Find links to all sites here!
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 find their hearts in danger of falling for women as tough as the Land of the Midnight Sun.
Choose from any one of these FIRSTS in series on Audible! Four genres to choose from. One per person please. Then, email me to collect: Carmen @ CarmenDeSousa .com (no spaces) Find my complete list on Amazon.com! )Ever want to try an audio book? Well, today's your lucky day! Hurry, this offer expires soon, and I only have so many of each title to share, so first come, first served! Email me a request for any of the audio books listed (She Belongs to Me; Love Like Crazy; Creatus: They Exist; or Some Lucky Woman), and it's yours free!!! Can't decide which one to choose? Click and image or head to Audible for more info on the titles. Then, email me: Carmen @ CarmenDeSousa .com (no spaces, of course) 😎 Of course, even if you don't like audio books, feel free to browse my Amazon author page, where you'll find the firsts in three of my series FREE!!!
Whether you're staying home or hitting the road, don't be caught without a book!
And to lighten your load, I'm offering the firsts in three of my bestselling series FREE!
And for my lovely avid-reading friends who've already read all my books, YES, there's a new series on the way. Two books are already finished, and the third will be ready soon. All three books will be released back to back starting this fall!
Happy Reading! Carmen Note: While Creatus Talis is Book Five in the Creatus Saga, it's a stand-alone story that can be read on its own. You don't have to read any of the previous books to enjoy this story.
Grab one or all three! And PLEASE share with your friends!
 Creatus elders have insisted that the creatus population concealed themselves from human beings because humans had hunted the creatus almost to extinction... But one woman's research reveals that when creatus first arrived on this planet, humans didn't fear the alien beings that looked so much like the human race. That is, until the creatus started to breed with humans, creating a ferocious killer feared by humans and creatus alike. A creature so fierce that its legacy of death and destruction has fed nightmares for millennia. And now, a new breed of creatus has been born -- or rather, reborn. Vev, one of the first generations of creatus talis, finds herself torn between her younger family members and a forbidden love as she fights to save the young talis from being turned into a weapon -- or worse, annihilation.
 Vev, one of the first generations of creatus talis, finds herself torn between her younger family members and a forbidden love as she fights to save the young talis from being turned into a weapon -- or worse, annihilation. For more info or to download, visit Amazon.com. Or read on for a sneak peek of Vev's first kiss. EXCERPT Hesitantly, Vev stepped forward. She’d never kissed a male before. Wasn’t even sure how it worked. She’d read about it, of course. Watched it. But as with everything, her knowledge only took her so far. Life experience, she was learning, was invaluable. Zach’s heart rate sped up again, and the musky scent she’d noticed intermittently throughout the day escalated. Every beat of his heart fanned the potent scent, filling the room. In response, all of Vev’s senses intensified, as though she were hunting game. “Vev,” he said, stepping toward her again, “please stay.” His hand stroked her cheek, brushing back a strand of hair. He took another step, this time slipping his arm around her waist. The pounding in Vev’s heart exploded into such a fast rhythm she could hardly breathe. She gulped, licked her lips. Zach moved just his head toward her this time, pressing his lips to hers. A kiss. Her mouth parted unconsciously as his mouth moved back and forth. She closed her eyes and inhaled. He smelled so good. So delicious—Vev pulled back so fast that Zach fell forward. She twisted her body, jerking away. The door. The sun must have set. Regardless, she needed to leave. “What happened?” Zach’s voice cracked. “I must go.” “Vev?” His warm hand made contact with her shoulder and she lurched forward, as far away as the room allowed. She wheeled, facing him. “I’m not human, Zach. Can’t you see that?” His lips turned up slightly, revealing curved lines that framed his mouth. “You feel plenty human to me.” “I’m not!” Vev insisted. She reached for the only thing in her vicinity. A broom. She snatched it from the corner and held it up. She didn’t know how much strength humans had. According to Marguerite, not much. “Can you break this?” “Why would I want to break my broom?” Vev huffed out a breath. “Can you?” “I guess. If I leveraged it against something, I could.” Vev brought the broom down over her knee, splitting it in two, then squeezed her hands around each part, pulverizing the wood until each piece was nearly sawdust. She released the slivers and shards, crumbling the pieces. Zach’s eyes grew wide. His heart raced disturbingly fast. She hated scaring him, but she had to make him see the danger. Marguerite had said that her research revealed that the earliest humans hadn’t been afraid of creatus, but that they had become jealous of their beauty and strength, and started hunting them. Vev had never understood that. Now she did. Humans hadn’t hunted the original creatus because they were jealous; they’d been frightened. Because humans smelled good. Because even though she liked the feel of Zach’s kiss, a part of her imagined biting his neck and feasting.
For four thousand years, creatus elders have insisted that the creatus population concealed themselves from human beings because humans had hunted the creatus almost to extinction… But one woman’s research reveals that when creatus first arrived on this planet, humans didn’t fear the alien beings that looked so much like the human race. That is, until the creatus started to breed with humans, creating a ferocious killer feared by humans and creatus alike. A creature so fierce that its legacy of death and destruction has fed nightmares for millennia. And now, a new breed of creatus has been born—or rather, reborn.
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