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Summer Reading, Life Turning Points, and the Power of Legacy

Summer reading suggestions for Carolyn M. Bowen books.

As summer begins, many of us look for books that do more than entertain us—we want stories and ideas that stay with us long after the season ends. Summer invites reflection, renewal, and the chance to turn a page in our own lives. It is the perfect time to dive into Carolyn M. Bowen’s Family Legacy Series while also exploring the personal growth insights in Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success, a book that speaks directly to the life-turning points we all face.

In Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success, Carolyn Bowen uses the image of cross-stepping—adjusting your balance as the waters shift—to explore how people navigate grief, death and dying, career changes, family struggles, and other major life crossroads. The book encourages readers to keep moving, even when the path is uncertain, and to find steadiness during seasons of loss and change. Those same questions of balance, resilience, and survival echo throughout the Family Legacy Series, where family ties are tested by ambition, betrayal, hidden enemies, and the pursuit of wealth and security.

What makes this pairing especially compelling for summer reading is the way fiction and nonfiction can deepen one another. The Family Legacy Series draws readers into a world where legacy is never simple: wealth building can create opportunity, but it can also attract conflict; family loyalty can provide strength, but it can also invite secrets, tension, and dangerous adversaries. In these stories, legacy is shaped not only by what a family owns, but by what it survives. Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success brings those themes into everyday life, reminding readers that our own turning points—whether rooted in grief, changing careers, fractured relationships, or personal reinvention—also define the legacy we build.

That is why the beginning of summer is such a meaningful time to pick up all the books. The longer days give us room to breathe, to reflect, and to imagine what comes next. Readers who love suspense, family intrigue, and the high stakes of inheritance and hidden enemies will find themselves drawn into the Family Legacy Series. Readers who are facing their own pivotal moments—or simply want encouragement for the road ahead—will find wisdom and perspective in Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success. Together, they offer a powerful reading journey: one through unforgettable fictional lives, and one through the deeply personal work of navigating our own.

This summer, consider reading the Family Legacy Series alongside Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success. One offers gripping fiction filled with wealth, danger, family conflict, and determined survival. The other offers practical encouragement for navigating grief, change, and the life decisions that shape who we become. Together, they reflect a central truth in Carolyn M. Bowen’s writing: every life, every family, and every future is shaped by the choices we make when the waters begin to shift.

Best Wishes for a Lovely Summer Season, Carolyn

Career Test Note: Since Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success was published, there have been changes to the career tests I suggested. I recommend searching on the Internet for a FREE Career Test and see what is being offered now. I apologize for the inconvenience, yet I am excited about the new career options available in 2026.

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Celebrating a 5-Star Review for “Legacy of Shadows”!

Legacy of Shadows: The Family Legacy Series

I am thrilled to share some exciting news with all my readers and fans! “Legacy of Shadows: The Family Legacy Series Book 2” has received a glowing 5-star review from K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite.

In this review, Finn describes “Legacy of Shadows” as a gorgeously detailed thriller filled with vivid descriptions and well-crafted characters. Set against the scenic backdrop of Tuscany, the novel follows David as he navigates treacherous alliances and personal conflicts. As his wife fights for her life, David finds himself entangled with a northern cartel and embroiled in a dangerous affair. Caught between the Chicago mob and the Italian underworld, he must navigate a perilous path to protect his family and legacy.

Finn praises the atmospheric attention to detail, which brings the complex world of organized crime to life on every page, immersing readers in a dangerous allure. The tension and suspense were palpable throughout, as David grapples with moral dilemmas and faces adversaries from both sides of the law. According to Finn, these clever story beats played out at just the right moment, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

I am incredibly grateful to K.C. Finn for this wonderful review and to all my readers for their continued support. If you haven’t already, I invite you to dive into the world of “Legacy of Shadows” and experience the thrill for yourself.

Thank you once again for your support and for making “Legacy of Shadows” a success!

Warm regards,

Carolyn M. Bowen

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Embracing the Magic of Christmas: A Season of Hope, Faith, and Love

Christmas 2023

As we find ourselves immersed in the festive atmosphere of the 2023 holiday season, the air is filled with the timeless melodies of Christmas music, serving as a soothing backdrop to the bustling energy of shoppers seeking the perfect gifts for their loved ones. Whether strolling through the aisles of brick-and-mortar stores or browsing through online catalogs, the spirit of Christmas is palpable, igniting a sense of joy and anticipation in our hearts.

For many, Christmas holds a special place in their hearts—a time when the world seems to slow down, allowing us to cherish the moments spent with family and friends. It is a season of giving, not only in material gifts but also in the sharing of love, compassion, and goodwill towards others.

As we exchange gifts and share meals with our loved ones, let us not forget the true meaning of Christmas. It is a time to reflect on the blessings we have received throughout the year and to express gratitude for the love and support that surrounds us. It is a celebration of hope, faith, and love—the very essence of the holiday season.

May this Christmas bring you and your family abundant joy, peace, and wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. From my heart to yours, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with blessings and prosperity.

Warmest regards,

Carolyn Bowen

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🌟 Unveiling the Magic of “The Dancin’ Otters of Fiddlin’ Creek” 🌟

A new blog post by Carolyn Bowen! #bookreviews #bookblogging

Greetings, fellow adventurers of the literary world! Today, I am thrilled to fling open the shutters of my writing cave and share with you a remarkable treasure I stumbled upon – “The Dancin’ Otters of Fiddlin’ Creek and Other Cowboy Adventures” by the incredible Jim Rhoden. Hold on to your hats, dear readers, for this book is nothing short of enchanting!

🌄 Imagination Takes the Reins 🤠

Within the pages of this exceptional children’s book lies a ticket to a captivating journey into the untamed and dusty Wild West. It’s a place where dreams ride alongside bucking broncos, and adventures are as boundless as the prairie itself. Young readers and prereaders alike will be whisked away to a world where cowboys and otters dance under the endless Western sky.

🌌 Perfect for All Ages 📖

But here’s the real magic – this book isn’t just for the little ones! It’s an enchanting bedtime storybook that transcends age barriers. Whether you’re a parent, a grandparent, or simply a lover of timeless tales, “The Dancin’ Otters of Fiddlin’ Creek” will captivate your heart as you turn each page. Jim Rhoden has woven a narrative tapestry that resonates with the young and the young at heart.

🌾 A Stroll into Days Gone By 🌄

Do you yearn for the days when the Wild West was your playground of imagination? This book is your time machine! Jim Rhoden’s words will transport you to an era where saloon doors swung open to a world of endless possibility. Dust off your boots and join the Dancin’ Otters as they two-step their way into your fondest memories.

📚 Order Yours Today and Rekindle the Magic 🌠

If you have curious youngsters under your roof, or if you simply crave a nostalgic journey into days gone by, don’t wait a moment longer. Order “The Dancin’ Otters of Fiddlin’ Creek” today and rekindle the magic of storytelling. Jim Rhoden’s masterpiece is a testament to the enduring power of imagination and the timeless allure of the Wild West.

So, fellow book enthusiasts, seize this opportunity to embark on an unforgettable adventure. Order your copy now and let the dancin’ otters twirl their way into your heart. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!

Saddle up, dear readers, and let your imagination run wild through the pages of this delightful tale. 📚🌄🌟

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Navigating Stormy Seas and Ties That Bind: The Cross-Ties Novel

Cross-Ties Novel by Carolyn Bowen

As the summer days draw to a close, the anticipation of cooler weather and the arrival of autumn fills the air. However, amidst the talk of weather and changing seasons, there is a tale of high-seas adventure and a coming-of-age journey that captures the hearts of book lovers seeking action, suspense, and historical romance. “Cross-Ties Novel” is a captivating story that takes readers on a perilous voyage filled with unexpected twists and turns, where the protagonist, Leah, defies societal norms and embarks on a quest for independence, love, and her own destiny.

A Journey of Love and Independence: Leah’s life was far from ordinary, being a debutante from an aristocratic family in 19th-century society. But she was not content to lead a life dictated by tradition and arranged marriages. Secretly in love with Brandon, the son of a shipping magnate, Leah found herself on the cusp of an arranged marriage to Edgar Worthington, the son of a Duke. Determined to seize control of her fate, Leah orchestrated a plan to escape to Antigua, where her mother’s sister, Aunt Leona, resided.

A Perilous Voyage: As Leah set sail to Antigua with a trusted captain aboard her father’s cargo ship, little did she know that her journey would take an unexpected turn. Pirates attacked the ship, and she found herself in a life-and-death situation, forced to hide to survive. With courage and cunning, Leah took charge of the ship, changing its course and charting a new path toward her desires.

Twists and Turns: Throughout her adventure, Leah’s life takes on a thrilling trajectory filled with perilous encounters and unforeseen challenges. Whether it was facing dangerous foes or confronting the social norms of her time, Leah proved to be a formidable protagonist, unyielding in her pursuit of independence and love. As the story unfolds, readers will be spellbound by the web of intrigue and unexpected connections that shape Leah’s destiny.

The Ties That Bind: At the heart of “Cross-Ties Novel” lies a beautiful portrayal of the ties between people and cultures. Leah’s experiences showcase the importance of these connections, which often come wrapped in unexpected packages. The novel highlights the significance of embracing opportunities for growth and the courage it takes to challenge societal expectations.

Conclusion: As summer winds down and the allure of autumn beckons, “Cross-Ties Novel” invites readers to embark on a thrilling adventure filled with romance, suspense, and the pursuit of independence. Leah’s journey navigates stormy seas, both literally and figuratively, and serves as a reminder that embracing one’s desires and forging meaningful connections can lead to a fulfilling and extraordinary life. So, if you’re a book lover seeking an enthralling read, don’t hesitate to order your copy of “Cross-Ties Novel” today, and let yourself be transported to a world of daring escapades and heartfelt discoveries. Available in both print and audio formats, this historical romance promises to keep you engaged from the first page to the very last word.

Cross-Ties Historical Romance

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Cross-Ties: Historical Romance Giveaway

Special Promotion

Do you love historical romance novels with plenty of action and adventure? Then, Cross-Ties is the book for you. Tap the link below and download your FREE eBook from Amazon during this special promotion ending January 25th.

I hope you enjoy this escape to another place and time. Your reviews of my novels are much appreciated. I look forward to reading them. Thank you! Carolyn Bowen

Cross-Ties by Carolyn Bowen

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Happy July 4th

Today is the 4th of July and many will be celebrating at home this year due to the COVID-19 virus. If you do go outside for fireworks displays or picnics in the park, please remember safe distancing and to wear your mask. Wishing you a fun and relaxing holiday weekend.

This has been a strange year and the unbelievable happenings continue postulating into our once predictable and steady lifestyles. These times will likely produce new horror fiction by creative authors from around the world.

Look to the sky for a holiday treat

A full moon referred to as a ‘Buck Moon’ occurs tonight after 11 p.m. EST along with a combo of a lunar eclipse. The night of the 4th and the morning of the 5th will make sky gazers happy.

Today’s Featured Mystery Read

The Long Road Home

Low country suspense about family and secrets. You can download and read FREE today from Amazon. Happy 4th of July! Carolyn

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Chance – A Novel ~ Book Trailer

Quote of the Day: Any chance we take maybe the one in a million winners worth the effort. Carolyn M. Bowen

 

You can probably tell I’m excited about my upcoming new release, Chance – A Novel. (Smiles) This is the second book in the Sydney Jones Series *Trilogy. If you like fearless heroines, page-turning action, and shocking twists, then you’ll love this gripping story. Tap the link to preorder Chance today!

We’ll be hosting a birthday party on Twitter for the official release, November 5th, at 9 a.m. EST. Plan now to join us with the hashtag #ChanceBirthday for fun giveaways and more.

Hope you enjoy the book trailer with a scene from the novel. Share with your friends and family.  Carolyn M. Bowen

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Marketing for Authors

Quote of the Day: “Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.” William James

As authors, we’re always looking for new ways to promote our books and I just got lucky. Let me introduce you to Theodocia McLean with Book Marketing Global Network and Avid Readers Global Network.

She’s smart and quick to present your book/s to catch reader’s attention. Here’s the link to my new author page. Check it out and if you’d like some marketing help, contact her so, you too will have more time for writing.

And there’s more…

McLean’s comprehensive marketing for authors includes social media platforms, Facebook groups, blogs, bookstores, and more. I find these services valuable and a much-needed breakthrough for authors.  I’m tickled to be included and look forward to more authors joining me. Click here for testimonials!

Thanks for following my blog/newsletter. Hope you’re having a wonderful summertime! Carolyn

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