Sometimes when I choose my next read, I think about setting more than genre. For example, if I choose a book by Nicholas Sparks, I'm thinking about the Carolinas, about deep-rooted secrets and southern gents. If I'm feeling dark and moody, I'll go for a vampire book set in Washington State or maybe a Stephen King book set in the Colorado Mountains. When I was asked to write a romantic suspense with a diverse family element and search & rescue, there was no question that I was going to set my Midnight Sons series in Alaska. The wild, untamed landscapes not only serve as a stunning backdrop but also mirror the tumultuous, mysterious elements that define romantic suspense. Why Setting Matters In storytelling, setting is not just a backdrop. It's a character in its own right. It influences the story's atmosphere, molds its characters, and can even drive the plot. Take, for instance, the moody moors in Wuthering Heights. Could Heathcliff's brooding and tumultuous romance with Catherine have unfolded anywhere else but on those windy, desolate moors? I think not. Setting as a Reflection of Character In my writing, I use setting to reflect my characters' internal landscapes. For example, in my Creatus series, the old, hidden settings (I chose New England) parallel the secretive lives of the creatures they conceal. This intertwining of place and personality challenges the characters, shaping their paths and choices, much like our environments influence us. She Belongs to Me (the entire Southern Collection, for that matter) could not have been set anywhere other than the Carolinas. There's just something about old Southern families and country boys! I swear if Jordan wasn't so "country," his protective nature wouldn't have worked as well. How to Use Setting Effectively Integrate Setting with Plot: The setting should do more than just serve as a backdrop. It should interact with the plot, influencing outcomes and character decisions. Use Sensory Details: Vivid descriptions that engage the senses can make a setting feel real and tangible, pulling readers deeper into the world you’ve created. Reflect Themes and Moods: The setting can enhance the themes or shift the mood of a scene, adding layers to the narrative. The right setting can transform a story from good to unforgettable. It’s not just about where and when; it’s about making those elements work in harmony with every aspect of your tale. As writers, we wield the power to transport our readers, not just emotionally or intellectually, but spatially, into the heart of our stories' worlds. Kind of like the image I chose... While you might be sitting on a beach or in your backyard, my goal is to transport you to another location! For readers and aspiring writers alike, I encourage you to think about the settings in your favorite books. How do they enhance the storytelling? And for my fellow authors, consider how your next setting might just be the key to unlocking your story's full potential. Until next time, Happy Reading and Writing! Carmen Here are the FIRSTS in the three series I mentioned! Follow Carmen's newsletter or author pages to be the first to know about new releases, specials, and writing posts!
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Hello, dear readers, It’s Jackie here, coming to you with a heart full of stories and a lifetime of experiences that I've poured into every book I’ve written. As I sit in my writing nook, surrounded by the quiet hum of life and the whispers of characters old and new, I'm thrilled to share some exciting news with you. This month, I’m offering my book, The Sheriff's Woman, for free. It’s a story that holds a special place in my heart, not just for the tale it tells but for the journey it represents. At eighty-three, I’ve seen the world change in countless ways, yet the essence of human emotion, the complexity of relationships, and the quest for love remain timeless. Set against the backdrop of the serene Ozark Mountains, The Sheriff's Woman is a narrative that unfolds the life of Rachel Cameron, a woman who chooses solitude in the wake of personal loss, striving to shield her children from gossip and shame. But her quiet life is challenged by the determined Sheriff Garrett Stark, a man who has long harbored feelings for Rachel. Garrett, an ex-Marine and a steadfast bachelor, believes it's time for Rachel to step out of the shadows and embrace life again, with him by her side. Their story is one of conflict, passion, and a deep-seated desire for connection. Rachel’s reluctance and Garrett’s persistence weave a tale that speaks to the heart's resilience and the courage required to open up to love again. This novel, dear friends, is for those who have faced adversity, who have sheltered their hearts, yet dare to dream of a love that reignites the soul. The reviews have been wonderfully heartwarming! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "A Wholesome Hometown Tale to Warm Your Heart!" – A sentiment that echoes the essence of what I hoped to capture. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "A beautiful, clean, lovely story of romance and life in a small town." – Indeed, it’s a celebration of life’s simplicity and the beauty of human connection. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Lively dialogue. Engaging plot. Endearing characters" – Each element carefully crafted to bring you into the world of Rachel and Garrett, making their journey yours. Why am I offering this book for free, you might ask? It’s simple. I believe in the power of stories to heal, to connect, and to uplift. The Sheriff's Woman is my invitation to you – to step into a world where love conquers, where the human spirit prevails, and where a second chance at happiness is just around the corner. So, I invite you to download The Sheriff's Woman this month. Let yourself be carried away to the Ozark Mountains, to a small homestead where life’s complexities are met with courage and love. And when you turn the last page, I hope you carry a piece of Rachel and Garrett’s story with you, a reminder of the enduring power of love. With warmth and affection, Jackie Weger XoXo
Here are a few images I chose to go with the story. I hope they give you a feel for Rachel's life! Connect with Jackie to stay up-to-date on New Releases and Specials!
Dear Friends, I woke up this morning to an astonishing revelation that left me baffled, intrigued, and, I must admit, a little amused. It appears the characters from the Creatus series, The Southern Collection, and the Midnight Sons have chosen today, of all days, to go on strike. Yes, you read that right! My beloved characters have decided they deserve a day off until I give them what they want. As I tried to negotiate with them—a tricky feat, given their adamant stance on enjoying a bit of leisure—they've presented me with a list of demands. They're quite the imaginative bunch, as you well know. Here are a few of their requests: More Plot Twists: They're craving adventures that are even more labyrinthine and mind-bending. They want you, the readers, to be on the edge of your seats, guessing until the very last page. Exotic Locations for Future Stories: Our Southern charmers are looking to mix it up with the mystical beings from the Creatus universe in locations that span from the enchanting Land of the Noonday Sun in North Carolina to the Land of the Midnight Sun in Alaska. Crossover Cameos: In an unprecedented move, characters from The Southern Collection are negotiating cameo appearances alongside Sam and his team in Alaska to Derrick and the New England Creatus family, who will be soon gathering in Maine. Imagine the rich, Southern charm of Jordan and his friends and the tough Alaska rescue team meeting the secretive, supernatural world. The possibilities are endless! Okay, if you haven’t figured this out yet, this is definitely an April Fools' joke, started by Mike from the Creatus series. Only he would think up something like this. I let him go ahead with it because he’s so fun and lovable, but decided I better offer a peace offering and a treat for you, my dear readers. So, on this April Fools' Day, I am placing The Southern Collection in Kindle Unlimited for a Limited Time, which means that not only can you READ the complete series free, you can also listen to the audiobooks! Find the complete collection HERE! If you are unfamiliar with Kindle Unlimited subscriptions, you can read about them on Amazon.com! Until next time, Happy Reading, and, remember, today is a day for laughter, surprises, and, of course, a little bit of mischief. Warmest regards, Carmen DeSousa If you are new to my books, here are the FIRSTS in the three series I mentioned!
For decades, I knew I had stories from the South Pacific that demanded to be told, stories so compelling listeners suggested they belonged on the big screen. Yet, the journey to share these tales began with a serendipitous meeting on a Thai riverboat in 1993, where a friend shared them with an English author intrigued by the South Pacific. This encounter led him to suggest I should be the one to write the stories. Embracing the challenge, I realized writing was akin to gourmet cooking: I needed the perfect recipe, the finest ingredients, and the right guests to appreciate the final dish. This realization sparked a thirty-year odyssey across the globe, gathering old letters, diaries, and firsthand accounts to infuse authenticity and depth into my narratives. In 1994, armed with determination and replacing an old typewriter with a word processor for efficiency, I began my writing journey. After eight years and countless hours, I had completed two novels but faced the daunting world of publishing as a novice. Initial attempts in 2002 to publish met with interest but also proposals to change my "recipe," leading to a pause in my quest. However, the pandemic in 2020 provided an unexpected catalyst. Secluded and reflective, I dusted off my manuscripts, feeling an urgent need to finally share my stories. Two revisions and nine months later, I reached out to a literary agent friend who knew just the right publisher. On my 80th birthday in 2021, I received the call that would change everything: my stories, written entirely by myself, were to be published. In Search of the Cannibal King and Cannibal King were released to the world in 2021, marking the beginning of a new chapter in my life and offering a testament to the power of perseverance and the fulfillment of a dream long-held. Please let my story be a reminder: never give up on your dreams, no matter how long it takes to realize them. Nanine Case Join Nanine in her adventures; jump into In Search of the Cannibal King FREE!!!! Then, buckle in for stories steeped in history, action, adventure, and even a hint of romance! Connect with Nanine to stay up-to-date on New Releases and Specials!
Immerse yourself in a story of resilience, hope, and unexpected love with our featured novel, Lonely Heart by M.J. Kane. As Kaitlyn Rodgers navigates the challenges of impending motherhood, a new job, and a rebellious sister all on her own, her life seems far from the fairytale she once dreamed of. Enter Antonio Rodriguez, an auto mechanic with a heart as large as his reluctance to repeat his father's solitary path. Their chance encounter sparks a friendship that promises a hint of joy in their tumultuous lives. But when the past returns, offering Kaitlyn a different future, she stands at a crossroads between the life she thought she wanted and the possibility of something more. Critics and readers alike have lauded this novel for its deep dive into the complexities of modern relationships, marking it as a journey through every conceivable emotion. It's a tale not of simple romances, but of the messy, beautiful, and sometimes painful reality of love. Celebrate this Valentine's Day by joining Kaitlyn and Antonio on their heartfelt journey, a testament to the power of love in all its forms. Read all the books in the Butterfly Memoirs Free with Kindle Unlimited! Connect with MJ via her Newsletter or Author Pages!
Crafting Modern Fairy Tales: Love, Trials, and Triumphs in Entangled Dreams by Carmen DeSousa!2/8/2024 In our world, the elusive "happily ever after" seems more a fairy tale fantasy than reality. Yet, ironically, the fairy tales of our youth weren't brimming with joy. They narrated tales of hardship, loss, and resilience—themes I explore in my modern-day fairy tales. In Entangled Dreams, I delve into these very trials, believing they make the joy of overcoming them all the sweeter. The notion that a knight in shining armor (or sometimes a frog in disguise) can complete us is charming, yet life teaches us that happiness is often a solo journey, enriched by those we choose to share it with. Through trials, we seek support, grow in gratitude, and, ultimately, appreciate the beauty of the present. In Entangled Dreams, my characters endure their own trials, embodying the struggles and triumphs we all face. They remind us that it's not about finding someone who completes us but rather someone who complements our growth. My stories are about flawed individuals who learn to trust, love, and forgive, navigating their paths to peace and fulfillment. This narrative mirrors my own life story with my husband. We've made each other better, filling gaps and strengthening weaknesses. Together, we craft our version of "happily ever after." If tales of growth, love, and redemption resonate with you, Entangled Dreams offers a modern spin on the fairy tale journey, celebrating the beauty of finding love, overcoming adversity, and the power of forgiveness. Read the entire series FREE with Kindle Unlimited!
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Whenever I give a talk about being an author, the aspect the audience seems to enjoy most is knowing the inside tidbits about a book and how it came about. My friends often tell me how much fun it is to see bits of my life in my books. Whether you've read any of these books are not, I hope you'll enjoy this "behind the scenes" look. Until I Die Again was my first published book! The idea of someone dying and coming back in someone else’s body quite literally popped into my head. I loved the way it could play out, whether the heroine tells the truth or keeps it a secret. Either way, it’s quite a dicey situation, and putting characters into these sorts of spaces make the most fun books. [evil chuckle] After this book came out, someone wrote to ask me how I knew about walk-ins. Apparently this is a thing! The truth is, at least for me, there are so many odd things that happen in our world, and anything is possible. I merely played with those possibilities in several of my books. The lizard in the book, Greenpeace, was based on a lizard that was hanging around our back porch for a couple of years and in particular, during the time I was writing this story. I, like Chris, used to talk to the lizard because, hey, I’m odd–I admit it. I think the green anoles are the coolest lizards, very sly and wary. The monkey I totally made up, but he seemed so real to me. Chris’s dogs, well, one of them anyway, is based on my real dog, Phoenix. He was a special guy who blessed my life for 14 years. By the way, if you haven't read Until I Die Again, it's available free at most major book retailers. Grab Until I Die Again on Amazon.com or find links to all retailers on BookBub.com. Silas, a character who appeared to me in full clarity of being, and Katie, inspired by an old photograph of a runway model, anchor this tale. Their lives intersect with the animal world in ways that are both heartbreaking and transformative. The catalyst for this story was my own visceral reaction to animal cruelty, a theme that threads through the narrative, revealing the complex tapestry of human-animal relationships. Writing about the losses within this book was a profound challenge. The departure of cherished animal characters was not just a narrative necessity but a journey through grief, both for the characters and for me. These moments of loss, though difficult to pen, became crucial turning points in the story, offering a space for reflection on the nature of compassion and companionship. This book also pays tribute to those quiet, often unnoticed moments of connection between humans and animals. Drawing from my own poignant memories of loss and companionship, it seeks to capture the essence of that unspoken bond. As I merged fiction with fragments of my life, the story unfolded into a realm where joy and sorrow, humanity and animal kinship, are inextricably intertwined, inviting readers to navigate the bittersweet landscape of our shared existence. Find Unforgivable on Amazon.com or find links to all retailers on BookBub.com. Chloe Samms is probably the heroine most like me. I didn’t do it on purpose. A writer can’t really mold a character the way they want, anyway. A character becomes real and asserts him or herself. And that’s what Chloe did. Compassionate to all creatures, sometimes to the point of ridiculousness—I once made my husband pull off a busy road because there was a lizard clinging to the windshield. Chloe hangs bats from her roof to keep birds from flying into the glass. My husband wouldn’t let me do this, so I bought those decals that are supposed to look like a hawk’s shadow. Unfortunately, they don’t work all the time. I even save bugs, and so does Chloe. Her cat, Gypsy, is my cat, Gypsy. Her aunt Stella is a loose version of my mom, and her dog is actually my mom’s dog, Rascal. All of the silly things Stella does for her dog…yep, all real. Okay, she doesn’t have an actual bed for Rascal, but he does sleep on a pillow. She covers him with a towel and then if she gets up during the night, she makes sure he’s covered. Around our area we have a lot of waterways. There was an old man who lived on his pontoon boat, and he ended up in the story. Or at least his likeness. :') Find A Trick of the Light on Amazon.com or find links to all retailers on BookBub.com. I hope you enjoyed this brief behind the scene of a few of my favorite books If there's a book you're wondering about, please reply to this email, and I'll try to add it in my next look beyond the book! Cheers! Tina Follow Tina to stay up-to-date on New Releases and Specials!
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 Carmen's newsletter or author pages to be the first to know about new releases, specials, and writing posts!
Hello, Friends! UNFORGIVABLE is a book of my heart, flowing right through me and onto my screen. It contains twists and turns and characters who aren’t quite what they seem. More importantly to me, the characters grow and transform…though some in not exactly good ways. Here’s a quick blurb: When an old friend returns to Katie's small Georgia town, somehow knowing her deepest secrets, his ominous premonition drives her to dig into dark truths that lead to a killer…who has her in his sights. Speaking of UNFORGIVABLE, I undertook a big challenge in this last year—turning the novel into a screenplay! So many readers have told me, “You should make this into a movie!” As if I had the power to do that, ha-ha-ha. Most authors dream of seeing their creations on any kind of screen, even knowing that it will be dramatically changed from the book. And now I see why. Fitting a 400 page book into 120 very sparse pages that scripts are comprised of is mind-blowing. Anything that makes the script go longer than that or doesn’t translate to the very visual media has to go. Really, you have to be brutal with editing! But I’ve gone through the many edits and learned the process and now it’s in a few people’s hands who will hopefully see the vision and want to produce it. My fingers are crossed! These things can take years, so I shall focus on other things as I wait for good news. It’s fortunate that I set it in rural Georgia, which is very film-maker friendly. In this world of ups and downs, we can sure use good news and uplifting stories of triumph and happily-ever-afters. I wish you all of those for the holidays and the coming year! Cheers!
Tina As the holiday season draws near, it’s impossible not to get wrapped up in the magic and nostalgia that comes with it. For me, now at the grand age of 83, Christmas always holds a special place in my heart, reminiscent of simpler times and heartfelt traditions. I recall the Christmases of my youth with a fondness that warms my soul. Those were the days when decorations were not just adornments but a family ritual, where every ornament told a story, and the twinkling lights were a beacon of joy and togetherness. Our Christmas tree, often a humble, fragrant pine, would stand proudly in the corner of our living room, draped with homemade garlands and tinsel that shimmered like a winter wonderland. The kitchen was the heart of our home during the holiday season. The aroma of baking pies, the sizzling of the turkey, and the laughter that echoed off the walls as we all pitched in with the preparations are memories that I hold dear. Christmas was never about the grandeur; it was about the love shared, the stories told, and the family gathered around the dinner table. Gift-giving was always modest, yet it felt like the richest of treasures. The excitement of finding the perfect, often handcrafted, gift for a loved one and seeing their face light up in joy is a feeling unmatched. It wasn't about the price tag; it was about the thought and love poured into each gift. Fast forward to today, and while times have changed, the essence of Christmas remains the same. It's about bringing joy, sharing love, and creating memories. Speaking of which, I’d like to share a piece of my heart with you this Christmas through A Mother for Christmas. Set against the backdrop of a Victorian house in St. Augustine, this heartwarming story is dear to my heart, as are the characters, especially Sophie. A Mother for Christmas is a story of love, mystery, and the magic of Christmas, reminding us of the power of connection and the surprises life can hold. So, as you prepare for your holiday season, whether it be with grand plans or a simple, cozy gathering, remember the true essence of Christmas. It’s not about the grandeur or the gifts; it’s about the love, the memories, and the magic that binds us all. And if you’re looking for a little extra warmth this season, A Mother for Christmas is a story to curl up with and let the magic of the season fill your heart. Merry Christmas and Warm Wishes to You and Yours! Jackie XoXo Grab the entire collection of Dear Santa themed stories... And read your way through the holidays! Also, available as Audiobooks!
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