April Special Book Promotions!

Cross-Ties
Sail the high seas with Leah as she dares to live her life on her own terms. From the English countryside to familial homes in Antigua to the great American frontier, you can journey with Leah as she and her family immigrates to America.

The Cross-Ties novel is a daring coming of age story filled with aristocratic customs and Native American folklore.

You can read a FREE eBook during our special spring promotion from April 21st to the 25th. There are other editions available including large print, paperback and hardback for your reading pleasure. Order yours today!

I look forward to your reviews and would love to know your favorite character and why. Drop me a message when you get a chance.

You’re invited to sign-up to receive my newsletters for the latest writing news and special promotions. Thank you for reading my novels. Carolyn Bowen

Cross-Ties Historical Romance

Happy Moments – Author’s Delight!

Quote of the Day: “Writing is a lonely job. Having someone who believes in you makes a lot of difference. They don’t have to makes speeches. Just believing is usually enough.” ― Stephen King, On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft

Cross-Ties, Carolyn Bowen Author

Most authors live for those high-five moments when readers make you proud you’re a writer. I am no different and social media provides the perfect backdrop for hearing from your fans.

Earlier this week one of my fans tweeted about Cross-Ties novel making a connection between Onedin Line and Hornblower, exciting books, series, and movie.

Needless to say, I’ve been on cloud nine – or higher since then. Being compared with some great writers is an experience you’d want to have again, and again.

I want to say a special thank you to my fans. I appreciate your reading and reviewing my novels. For those of you who haven’t read Cross-Ties, this weekend you can download it for free from my website. I ask that you follow my blog so you’ll be the first to know the latest news and leave a review on your favorite platform. Carolyn Bowen

Cross-Ties Novel, Carolyn M. Bowen Author

 

Cross-Ties Limited Offer!

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my favorite social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

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Hello, August 2018

Quote of the Day: I always prefer to believe the best of everybody. It saves so much trouble. Rudyard Kipling

August 2018, Writing Life, Summer Days

Hello, August 2018! What are your plans for this month? Many folks have summer vacations or shopping for children’s back to school clothes on their list. Me, I plan to stay in the shade unless the great outdoors beckons me.

August is typically a scorcher in the southern United States. To beat the heat, many enjoy water sports and lazy summer days on the lake. Whatever makes you happy and comfortable is the ultimate winner.

I’m fascinated by the weather and track the activity of the Atlantic hurricane season. The season began on June 1 and ends on Friday, November 30. However, it peaks in late August or early September, though storms can occur year-round. You can bet I’m ready and tuned to the weather channel.

Question: Does the weather temperature where you live make a difference in your lifestyle choices? Let me know, I’m interested in learning more about you.

Grateful, gratitude, writing life
Oh, happy day! My dreams are coming true by helping you discover yours and claiming your destiny. I am grateful for today’s happy news!

“Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success,” is currently an Amazon #1 Bestseller. Thank you for making this possible. Let me help you realize your dreams, too!

Book Description

When surfers hit the water, they use a technique called cross-stepping or moving their weight forward and backward to stay standing. Cross-stepping isn’t just a good idea for surfers, though – you, too, can metaphorically use the same strategy of zigzagging motions to achieve success.

In “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success,”  life coach and Author Carolyn Bowen shows you how to zig-zag your way to success one step at a time. She examines grieving, life planning, owning your power, becoming health conscious, learning to love again, and more.

Read “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success,” and you’ll discover how to maintain your balance on the choppy waters of life!

Life’s little instruction book for mastering success! Author and lifestyle coach Carolyn Bowen shows you how to zig-zag your way to success one step at a time.  Download and Read ” “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success.”

Download Here or read FREE with Kindle Unlimited!

Latest Writing News

I’ve gone rogue and today my new book release is in a fascinating genre that’s built on my educational background and practical experience. Reviewers: Do you want to be on my launch team? If so, let me know and a Kindle version will be yours.

Where to Find My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery


Cross-Ties: Historical Fiction Passages

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

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Guaranteed No Stress May 2018

“We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us.” ― Joseph Campbell

Spring4

It’s a joy seeing the seasons change and that’s what May signifies to me. This spring has been colder than previous years in the southern United States. (I was wearing a sweater just yesterday).

I have to say the Farmers’ Almanac, an annual North American periodical that has been in continuous publication since 1818, forecasted the spring weather on the mark. I clearly understand why farmers and gardeners depend on this publication for planting advice. That being said, what are your May 2018 plans?

Author Update

I’ve been busy working on two new books and hope to have the first one out by the end of the year. I’ll keep you posted as it gets closer to the release date. I’ll be seeking advance reviewers for a nonfiction and mystery novel. So, let me know if you’re interested in getting the first peek at my new books.

May Holidays

I love celebrating holidays! Here are three of my favorites:

May 5      Cinco de Mayo

May 12    Mother’s Day

May 27    Memorial Day ~ Federal Holiday

Where to Find My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery


Cross-Ties: Historical Fiction Passages

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

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Strange Bedfellows Indeed

Almost Famous – Unlikely Buddies

Quote of the Day: Most Americans, like most Japanese, view their dogs, cats, and other animal companions as family members, and rightly so. Ingrid Newkirk

The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, Book Blogger

Bubba Blue and Tookie are unlikely buddies and their friendship has made them almost famous. Their alliance has garnered them the reputation of being strange bedfellows indeed. In my last post about the duo, I mentioned Bubba Blue needed a new aquarium to get some airflow moving through his water world.

The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, Book BloggerIt arrived and I put it together, all by myself. I felt victorious and intense satisfaction for instructions that made sense. I immediately filled the tank with betta water, gravel, an aquatic plant and a play toy for Bubba Blue. I let the water circulate for 24 hours prior to introducing Bubba to his new home.

The rest is history. Bubba swam around and inspected his new quarters as Tookie watched in awe. Since bettas (known as “labyrinth fishes”) take their oxygen from the surface of the water, it makes it easier when he swims to the top to greet his friend.

Tookie always awakens me to feed them both in the mornings. Every day their routine continues – morning kisses to start the day. It’s great having best buddies to brighten my day!

The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, Book BloggerThe Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, Book Blogger

My Writing Life

The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, Book Blogger

Setting Goals

My goal for 2018 is to complete a new novel and I’ve begun the first steps toward that goal – focus with a purpose!

I plan to make myself accountable for achieving my new year’s mission. You’ll probably see me talking about that here from time to time.

Join the Fun

If you’re a mystery book reviewer and would like to be a beta reader for my new novel, let me know so I can add you to my reviewers’ list.

Thank you for reading and reviewing my books on reader/novel platforms. Your kindness is greatly appreciated!

Where to Buy My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery


Cross-Ties: Historical Fiction Passages

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow

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Time Management for Authors 2018

Time Management for Authors 2018

Quote of the Day: Real seriousness in regard to writing is one of two absolute necessities. The other, unfortunately, is talent. Ernest Hemingway

The Writing Life, Setting Goals, Time Management, Carolyn Bowen Author

I’ve resolved that 2018 is going to be the best year ever for me and my writing. First, I’ve got to clean out some debris from habits formed that keep me from my main focus – writing.

As an author they’re several hats we wear, or at least I do. From studying my craft, learning new computer applications (that’s supposed to help reach new readers) creating content for marketing campaigns, interacting with social media, I often have little time to actually write.

I need to set that in focus. For me to actually write – I need inspiration which usually comes through travel. It’s like a story is waiting to be told in the places I visit. Other words, I really need time to travel. If you’ve read any of my interviews, you know I write from the seat of my pants which makes editing a nightmarish expense as well as time-consuming. Yet, I wouldn’t trade the experience for the world.

There are two things that I’ve learned are important to success – time and resources to accomplish your goals. How often have you heard the phrase time is money? Well, it is! When you’re spending time doing something, its dollars spent. You could be earning money elsewhere or in the least relaxing.

Carolyn Bowen Author, The Long Road Home, Cross-Ties, Long Road Home, The Writing Life, Book Bloggers, Blogging

My Remedy

  • Have a clear objective of what I want to accomplish in 2018. This means stating (writing it down) an objective that can be measured. For example, more books sales – what does this require of me?
  • What are the tools that I need to accomplish the objective? Depending on your objective, the tools may vary. However, for authors who already have published books, there’s a need to continue promotions while writing new works of fiction.

In this case, research the best promotional tools – whether this is book marketing companies to promote your books, search engine advertising, Amazon advertising, or any of the major social media sites advertising.

Make a calendar and schedule time for writing new content for advertisements and social engagement.

Writing – set realistic goals and time frame for completing the steps towards completing a new manuscript.

  • Implement new strategies – Yes, trust the new process, monitor promotions and update as needed.

Back to my question, how can I make time to accomplish my personal goal of publishing a new book in 2018 while at the same time continue promotions of my books? It’s all about time management!

Today’s author has to be on the top of the playing field with presence and genuine offerings. I’d love to hear what works for you! Wishing you a super 2018, Carolyn Bowen

Where to Buy My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link or image to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery

I hope 2018 is a wonderful year for you! I’ll be writing – and enjoying some great times too. Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

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Happy New Year 2018

Happy New Year!

Quote of the Day: “For last year’s words belong to last year’s language. And next year’s words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning.” T. S. Eliot

Carolyn Bowen Author, The Long Road Home, Cross-Ties, Long Road Home, The Writing Life, Book Bloggers, Blogging

This past year has gone in a flash! All my writing plans didn’t get completed in 2017. But, that’s history! It’s time to start setting goals for 2018. What are your plans?

Carolyn Bowen Author, The Long Road Home, Cross-Ties, Long Road Home, The Writing Life, Book Bloggers, Blogging

New Year’s Wishes

“We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year’s Day.” Edith Pierce

Please check out my novels here and at your favorite bookstore!  Wishing you joy, peace, happiness, and abundance in this new year. Carolyn Bowen

Say hello here…

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Thanksgivings Begins with Gratitude!

Quote of the Day: Over and over I marvel at the blessings of my life: Each year has grown better than the last. Lawrence Welk

Thanksgivings Begins with Gratitude, Thanksgiving Day, Thanksgiving Quotes, The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, Book Bloggers, Blogging

Thanksgivings Begins with Gratitude!

Thanksgivings Begins with Gratitude, Thanksgiving Day, Thanksgiving Quotes, The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, Book Bloggers, BloggingThanksgiving Day is always a special family occasion and one of my favorite holidays. It’s a day of giving thanks for the wonderful blessings of the year.

I have a lot to give thanks for this year! The good health and opportunities myself and family have received. The wonderful friends I’ve met and longtime friends who choose to remain in my life make my life interesting and whole.

I give special thanks for the fans of my books that have taken the time to read, review, or comment about my books. You make my writing life worthwhile through your encouragement and support – thank you! You are invited to join my reviewer beta list to be one of the first to read my new books. Just let me know and I’ll include you with my heartfelt thanks!

Holiday Giveaway

In the spirit of the holidays, I’m giving away one Travel Bag to the top three entries in my “Snap a Photo” reading contest. A great go-to bag for your books!

It’s easy to enter for a chance to WIN! Just snap a picture of your reading or displaying The Long Road Home and submit here! Get as creative as you’d like! The winners will be announced Christmas Day!

Book Reviews

I love reading books and have learned much this year from soaking up writing craft books, fiction, and nonfiction from some very interesting, and skilled authors.

Thanksgivings Begins with Gratitude, Thanksgiving Day, Thanksgiving Quotes, The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, Book Bloggers, Blogging

Reviewers Wanted

I would like reviewers for my books. If you enjoy Mystery and/or Historical Romance, let me know. I’ll provide an Amazon Kindle version for your reading pleasure!

From my home to yours – Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday with your family and friends! Carolyn Bowen

Follow my blog for the latest news about my writing life! You can also find me on social media, where I spend way too much time! (Smiles) Here are a few of my favorite hangouts!

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow here!

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It’s a Beautiful Fall Day for Reading!

Fall Reading In Nature

It’s a Beautiful Day for Fall Reading, Carolyn M. Bowen author, The Writing Life, Book Blogs, Book Reviews

Quote of the Day

Any reviewer who expresses rage and loathing for a novel is preposterous. He or she is like a person who has put on full armor and attacked a hot fudge Sundae. Kurt Vonnegut (November 11, 1922 –April 11, 2007)

Today is a beautiful fall day and I’ve got some extra pep in my step! I enjoy watching the seasons change! The first days of the full color burst in autumn or new flowers sprouting in the spring remind me how fortunate we are to live in nature.

Book Reviews

If you have a novel you’d like for me to review, drop me a note here! Check out some of my latest book reviews also on Goodreads!

It’s a Beautiful Day for Fall Reading, Carolyn M. Bowen author, The Writing Life, Book Blogs, Book ReviewsLooking for some winter novels to read and review? Click here for a Kindle gift version of my mystery, The Long Road Home or Cross-Ties adventure. Thank you!

Don’t forget this is National Novel Writing Month! Celebrate your favorite authors by leaving a great review. They’ll thank you! I certainly do!

Where to Buy My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link or image to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery

I hope you’ll enjoy a blissful November celebrating the holidays with family and friends. I’ll be writing – and enjoying some great times too. Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow

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National Novel Writing Month

Quote of the Day: “Make your novel readable. Make it easy to read, pleasant to read. This doesn’t mean flowery passages, ambitious flights of pyrotechnic verbiage; it means strong, simple, natural sentences.” Laurence D’Orsay, October 1929

National Novel Writing Month, Carolyn M. Bowen Author, Goodreads Author

National Novel Writing Month

November is National Novel Writing Month! I needed the reminder to get my writing back on track. I will make a diligent effort this month to write more words a day. One sentence after another and a novel will be born. Then the real work begins in the editing stages. How many drafts does it take you to get it right?

For me, let’s just say it takes a long time! I write from inspiration, the seat of my pants, most times. This can lead to multiple drafts. Hopefully, my editor will make the job easier for my new novel.

National Novel Writing Month, Carolyn M. Bowen Author, Goodreads Author

I am prone to isolating myself when writing novels. I’ve got to train myself to come out of the own little world to breathe freshness into marketing my other books. Time management will be the key to accomplishing my goals. What works for you?

Book Reviewers Wanted

I’m looking for reviewers for my mystery, crime fiction novel, The Long Road Home and for Cross-Ties, a historical fiction adventure. Interested? I’ll gift you with a Kindle version of both or either one. The Long Road Home is available FREE through Kindle Unlimited.

If you’d like to be a beta reviewer for my next mystery novel, let me know and I’ll include you in the review process.

Thank You!

National Novel Writing Month, Carolyn M. Bowen Author, Goodreads Author

Thank you for reading and reviewing my books on reader/novel platforms. Your kindness is greatly appreciated!

Where to Buy My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery

I hope you’ll enjoy a blissful November celebrating the holidays with family and friends. I’ll be writing – and enjoying some great times too. Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow

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