 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!
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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!
 The ultimate battle starts with Creatus Unyielding and a twist, we 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!
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Newsletter - BookBub - Amazon 
Embarking on the journey of writing my first novel was a tumultuous adventure filled with trepidation and excitement. Armed with nothing but passion, and driven by my Muse, the process started. The choice was clear - I would create a narrative where love blossoms beyond the barriers of race and color, echoing my personal belief that love knows no bounds.
Ebony Campbell, my heroine, is a strong, goal-oriented black woman. A twist of fate throws her into an unexpected whirlpool of emotions, making her question the path she meticulously planned for herself. As an African-American author, the obvious choice for a hero would seem to be a black man, but creativity took the reins, leading me to envision a different, captivating romantic interest.
During the narrative's inception, I stumbled upon the character of Brian Young - a charismatic, white man with blue eyes that seemed to see right through Ebony's strong exterior. Brian, defying stereotypes with his compassionate nature, became the pillar Ebony didn’t know she needed.
Determined to infuse authenticity into the interracial relationship of Ebony and Brian, extensive research became my ally. Exploring stories of real-life interracial couples, delving into statistics, and absorbing the nuanced experiences of people in such relationships, became stepping stones in crafting a story that resonated with realism and heartfelt emotions.
A Heart Not Easily Broken focuses not just on the racial aspect but also navigates through the couple’s individual journeys and collective experiences. It shines a light on love’s ability to triumph over societal norms and personal insecurities, painting a canvas where colors blend seamlessly, fostering a beautiful relationship.
Even today, the world behind closed doors whispers judgments, and skepticism looms around interracial relationships. However, my story encourages embracing love beyond color lines, emphasizing that happiness blossoms where love is nurtured, irrespective of societal norms.
The positive reception and heartwarming reviews from readers, including those who found a piece of their truth in Ebony and Brian’s journey, remain the treasures of this writing adventure. A Heart Not Easily Broken is not merely a tale of love but a reflection of life’s ability to surprise us with the beauty found in unexpected places.
Discover this journey of love, overcoming societal judgments and personal fears, in the vivid pages of A Heart Not Easily Broken - where love knows no color. Learn More on Amazon.com, or Read an Excerpt.
 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?" If you haven't discovered the mysteries of the Creatus series. Start now with a FREE 2-Book Set!  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!
After I came up with that (and it’s a doozie), I knew I had to put her in the worst possible position to push her to be more courageous than she thought she could be. You see, Olivia Howe was kidnapped as a child. I didn’t want to write about a molester, so the kidnapper’s reasons had to do with a mad ceremony he thinks he has to do to tamp down his rage when it rears up.
While Detective Max Callahan is skeptical, he’s also mysteriously drawn to her…so sticking close seems like a good idea. And that's when things get really hairy. But dear romantic suspense readers, you know that an HEA is guaranteed, so don’t worry—no children are murdered in this book. I found some really interesting reads as I dove into blind-sightedness. One was The Phantoms in the Brain by neuroscientist V.S. Ramachandran, and the other was The Man who Mistook his Wife for a Hat by Oliver Sacks. I highly recommend these books for fascinating stories about how the brain can misfire and, well, pretty much go whack-a-doodle sometimes.
My story also has some special connections for me. One is the name Phaedra, the girl who gets kidnapped in my story and is psychically connected to my heroine, Olivia. One of my childhood friends was named Phaedra, and I’ve never since heard of anyone with that name. Although we lost touch decades ago, her name stuck in my head, ready to pop out when I needed a name for the girl.
She had a seizure disorder, so her Australian shepherd was trained to alert her when one was coming. Watching Denise and Stasia interact and her dog’s diligence was so touching. That’s why it was such a delight to write a story with a blind woman and her guide dog. When this book came out originally, Denise and Stasia came to one of my book signings. We bought some food-grade “ink” and had Stasia sign the books with me. It was so adorable! Although Denise has passed on, I’ll always remember her sweet smile, and her cute pup. I’m excited that Blindsight was chosen for a special $0.99 promotion so you can give it a try—or GIFT it to a friend if you've already read it. Until next time, Happy Reading! Tina Find links to download Blindsight from your favorite retailer! |
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