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Be True To Yourself In 2019

Quote of the Day: “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Be True To Yourself 2019, Carolyn Bowen Author
Photo credit: Pixabay

An important part of my writing life is learning more about the craft and marketing. Today I’m focusing on marketing in preparation for releasing my new mystery thriller.

To stay on top of current trends it’s important to find knowledgeable sources and I hit the jackpot today with an article by Lisa D. Jenkins, Managing Editor of Social Media Examiner.

Jenkins provides marketing predictions for 2019 from top marketers in the world. And, having earlier read predictions by futurist I felt like we’ve just skipped right on through to another decade or two into the far-off future. It was amazing reading about what we could expect in marketing in this New Year.

Here’s a few that caught my attention!

  • The rapid growth for voice-activated searches using Alexa and other tools. Going from visual to spoken word searches is going to take on new meaning for marketers accustomed to the web and mobile devices.
  • Augmented reality, AR, for close inspection of products and services is on the rise. For example, wouldn’t it be great to experience a travel destination before booking, try out new accessories or clothing, etc.?
  • The shift away from active social media interactions back to more passive experiences to entertain and/or educate. The desire to take back control of time and funds normally spent using social media will be evaluated and determined if relevant. According to Seth Godin, author, and entrepreneur, “…the idea of seeing and being seen by the people who matter to them,” will be a priority.
  • The stability of email marketing will remain strong with businesses utilizing newsletters to converse with their audience.
  • A special note to authors and publishers is the prediction of the increased use of story format content videos for marketing. Check out my YouTube Channel!

Marketers will need to revamp their plans to stay on top of the trends for 2019. The full article by Lisa D. Jenkins, Social Media Examiner is here.

In 2019 stay true to yourself and don’t let the noise of the world distract you from your goals. Let me know your thoughts about the marketing predictions for this year.

I’m counting down the days to the release of my new mystery-thriller. Follow my blog to stay in the know about upcoming events. Thank you!

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The Modern Rules of Marketing for Writers

Quote of the Day: “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

The Modern Rules of Marketing for Writers, The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author
Photo credit: Pixabay

Yes, I’m hyper anticipating my new mystery novel coming out soon. So – I read – and read more to make my jittery nerves relax.

This book got my attention – maybe because I love Hemi trucks – they can pull a boat so I can ski on any lake/river/ocean accessible by land. I think you get it – crazy about water sports. And, I love knowing the latest marketing news! But, can I do what’s recommended?  Stay-tuned.

Today’s book world is about learning and using the right communication and tools to reach your audience. The creative process and techniques for delivering the best marketing campaign to boost book/s to the bestseller list is a long and curvy road. I have been fortunate – just plain lucky in some instances in the past. However, going forward I will be on a steep learning curve to develop innovative ways to get my stories to be read and reviewed.

I’m old school with Hemingway influence where if you write a great novel everyone should want to read it – right? Times have changed and my writing reflects the current state of affairs in the criminal world. I think people still want to know the interworking of a character’s mind. And, that I can deliver. Maybe market – we’ll see.

Today’s review fits squarely into the marketing model I discussed earlier. How to Sell Books by the Truckload by Penny C. Sansevieri is a keeper. See my review from Goodreads below.
How to Sell Books by the Truckload on Amazon.com - Book One and Two: Get More Sales - Get More Reviews!How to Sell Books by the Truckload on Amazon.com – Book One and Two: Get More Sales – Get More Reviews! by Penny C. Sansevieri
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Back your Hemi right on back and fill your truck bed with the best information for promoting your book. This book gives you the nitty-gritty about marketing both fiction and non-fiction.

It’s the equivalent of having your personal marketing expert working for you. The downside – you’ve got to learn the ropes and do it yourself.

I’d love an app that embodies everything this book describes but we all know advertising isn’t stagnant, always moving forward. Yet, you can benefit today from using these carefully researched and proven marketing techniques. Get ready for a mind-blowing experience! Follow this author to keep abreast of the changing marketing environment. Thanks, Penny!

View all my reviews

If you’d like to be an advance reader for my upcoming new mystery, complete the information below and an ebook will be made available for your reading pleasure. Thank you!

December Holidays, Carolyn Bowen Author, The Writing Life
Photo Credit: Pixabay

I share on social media daily. Hope to see you there, too!  Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

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

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

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Book Review: An Innocent Client

Quote of the Day: “I write not because I want to but because I am destined to.” Jules Haigler

The Writing Life, Book Review: An Innocent Client
Photo Credit: Pixabay

The why behind the doing!   

First, let me define some of the terms I’ll be using as to not complicate the understanding of what I’m saying.

  • Who is a writer?

A writer is a person who uses written words in various styles and techniques to communicate their ideas. Wikipedia

  • What is the difference between a writer and author?

According to the dictionary, a writer is one who expresses ideas in writing or engaged in literary work. An author is a person who writes a novel, poem, essay etc., and the composer of a literary work. You become an author when your books are published, but if your writings are never published, you remain a writer.

  • What is the meaning of authorpreneur?

Authorpreneur is the business end of being an author. To me, it’s no different than being an entrepreneur for starting up any kind of business. Of course, the author added to the shortened entrepreneur pinpoints the exact kind of business the person is involved in.

Learning to be an authorpreneur is about positioning yourself (branding) for the best possible outcome for your writing efforts.

You may be thinking I don’t want to do this! I’d prefer to just write. You are not by yourself. Many writers turned authors who became entrepreneurs feel the same way. However, even the bestselling authors are required to participate in the marketing of their books. Many embrace this opportunity to better understand their readers and to help keep the buzz around their names.

Being a writer and authorpreneur, in the business of promoting and marketing to sell and profit from your writing, is a lifetime learning experience. To accomplish this feat as a writer you need to write, read, and study the craft of writing.

Then changing directions towards getting your book/s in the hands of readers is another challenge in of itself. The same lessons apply to learn publishing and marketing – study, read, write, and learn how to expand your brand to reach new readers.

To improve as an author, I’ve found that it’s a good idea to read books in your genre, continue your daily writing and set aside time to learn more about writing.

Today’s blog post is the result of my applying these steps to my writing life. My personal standard is to never read a book I don’t think I’ll enjoy!  Hope you enjoy my review of An Innocent Client by Scott Pratt!

An Innocent Client (Joe Dillard, #1)An Innocent Client by Scott Pratt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wherein Lies the Truth?

Joe Dillard was a criminal defense attorney who didn’t like his job. Never did. His plans after law school were to work in the District Attorney’s office as a prosecutor. The problem, the pay didn’t line up with the time and cost of the education required to practice law.

The only choice was to open a law firm. He did with a promise to himself that eventually he’d quit and become a prosecuting attorney. But, first, he had to provide for his family and see his children through school. The pay was good. Yet, knowing his clients were guilty and worse, maggots of the earth tormented him. He desperately wanted to be on the opposite side, not defending the scum of the earth.

The years passed by and he was looking forward to retirement. The income from his practice and his wife’s management of their assets was securing their future. And, when the time was right, he’d call it quits. But, for once he’d like to represent an innocent client before he retired.

He was counting down the days to his exit from practicing law when a new case was offered him. He quoted a fee much higher than normal for he’d not planned to stay for a lengthy trial.

Money wasn’t an issue and his desire to represent an innocent client came to mind. All he had to do was talk to the young, beautiful woman charged with first-degree murder and decide whether to take the case. Would he finally get a chance to represent an innocent client?

If you enjoy reading legal thrillers and mysteries, check this one out! It’s a well-written story that’ll keep your interest.

View all my reviews

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I share on social media daily. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

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

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

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March – A Time For Renewal

March – A Time of Renewal, The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Quote of the Day: It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade. Charles Dickens

March – A Time For Renewal

Every season is my season. I enjoy experiencing the contrast of each new season from the last. It’s a marking of time and enjoying the moments, hours, days… that add up to a lifetime. It’s a perfect reason to celebrate each season.

My Writing Life

I’m pleased to report that I’m making real progress on my new mystery, crime fiction novel. Thank you for the “adda girl” encouragement and support of my writing.

Crime Fiction/Mystery Book Reviewers

I’m looking for book reviewers who would like to participate as a beta reader and receive an advance copy prior to the release date. I’d love your feedback!

Fun March Facts

  1. Here are some fun facts about March 2018.
  2. March is the third month of the year.  It’s the second of seven months to have a length of 31 days.  In the Northern Hemisphere, the meteorological beginning of spring occurs on the first day of March.
  3. March meaning and symbolism is solved when we learn the month is named after Mars. Martius, the moniker for Mars is actually the original term for the month of March in Roman calendars.

March Calendar of Events

  • March 4:        Academy Awards
  • March 8:        Int’l Women’s Day
  • March 11:      Daylight Savings Time
  • March 17:      St. Patrick’s Day
  • March 20:      Daylight Savings Time, N. Hemisphere
  • March 25:      Palm Sunday
  • March 30:      Good Friday
  • March 31:      Passover Starts

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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Spring 2018 Countdown – Writing Life

The Writing Life

Spring 2018 Countdown, The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author

Quote of the Day: “Start writing, no matter what. The water does not flow until the faucet is turned on.” Louis L’Amour

Good News

I’m pounding the keys again working on a new novel. Excited – is an understatement. I’m enjoying watching the words appear on the pages and sharing my writing journey with you.

Around the house

Tookie and Bubba Blue are still strange bedfellows with a new friend joining them soon – a swim mate for Blue.

With the flu season making a major impact this season, I’m taking extra health precautions being more health and fitness minded. It’s taken me a long time to find a balance between work and health pursuits. I tend to focus on my writing and marketing and lose touch with everything else. I’m proud to say that’s changing and I’m still able to reach my goals.

Spring 2018 Countdown

There are 52 days left until spring 2018. If you haven’t already read my novels, now is a great time as winter bids farewell.

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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What Are You Willing To Risk?

Quote of the Day: Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far they can go. T.S. Eliot

What are you willling to risk?, The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author

Today we celebrate the British essayist, publisher, playwright, literary and social critic, and “one of the twentieth century’s major poets” Thomas Stearns Eliot, OM (T.S. Eliot) birthday (26 September 1888 – 4 January 1965). Wikipedia

His works continue to resonate with people today. The quote above is one of my favorites. Learn more about his lifetime literary achievements here.

Giving Away To Good Homes

Cross-Ties Adventure, Carolyn M. Bowen Author, The Writing Life, What are you willing to risk?Today I’m pushing, making an effort, to see how far I can go. What are my plans? I’m giving away (5 signed copies of my historical romance, Cross-Ties to good homes.

To enter for a chance to win: Follow my blog and leave a comment. The 1st five to participate will be the lucky winners. Good Luck! I look forward to a meet/greet soon.

Reviewers Wanted: Get added to my reviewers’ list and be the first to know about new releases and other fun events. Please let me know if you’d like to be a Beta reader for my future books.

Carolyn M. Bowen Author, The Writing LifeIf you like to read and review books, please let me know and I’ll provide a Kindle version (Cross-Ties and/or The Long Road Home) for your reading enjoyment.

I am so excited about the reviews for my novels. Thank you for taking the time to read and comment (nice) about The Long Road Home and Cross-Ties a historical fiction adventure. You make my writing life more interesting.

The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author, What are you willing to risk?

If you like to connect with others who enjoy books, join my new Facebook group – Circle of Friends. I look forward to seeing you there.

Please check out my novels here and at your favorite bookstore! Thanks!

Say hello here…

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Summer Fun in August

Quote for Today: “And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.” F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

Summer Fun in August, The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author

This month has been refreshing as I’ve gone about updating my marketing program for my novels. At the same time, I realized that I needed to get back on my writing path. Several ideas for new books have floated across my mind. Within the next few weeks, I’ll begin the process of putting my thoughts on paper. I’m hoping this new book will come together as easily as “The Long Road Home.” Please send some positive vibes my way! (smiles)

Latest updates – Cross-Ties Adventure is now rocking new covers. Yes, I did two! It was a difficult decision (smiles). I liked the way each one turned out so I did one for the Kindle version and another for the paperback. Let me know what you think!

Cross-Ties Adventure, Carolyn M. Bowen Author, Summer Fun In August, The Writing LifeBarnes & Noble  Cross-Ties Paperback

 

In case you haven’t seen the latest video for The Long Road Home, check this out!

I appreciate your support of my writing and the kind reviews you have left on different book platforms. You make the writing life fun and exciting.

Readers – Reviewers Wanted
I’m looking for book lovers interested in reviewing Cross-Ties (Historical Romance) and The Long Road Home (Crime Fiction, Mystery/Thriller). Please leave a comment and I’ll provide a Kindle version of the books for your reading pleasure.

Summer Fun in August, The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author

Thanks for following my blog. I hope to see you on social media! – These are a few of my favorite hangouts!

Say hello here…

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

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

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Get a Taste of Southern Living – The Long Road Home

The Writing Life

Quote for Today: “When writing a novel a writer should create living people; people, not characters. A character is a caricature.” Ernest Hemingway

Charleston, South CarolinaMarch is fast approaching and I look forward to marketing my latest novel, The Long Road Home. My writing life is split between the writing process and marketing. When I’m writing that’s my main focus. When my novels are completed I go to another happy place to let readers know it’s available.

It’s great to have others appreciate your work and help get the word out about your novel. I was fortunate to be featured by Adam Parker journalist with The Post and Courier this month. I am truly grateful.

Reviews are important to authors

Thank you for the reviews you’ve posted about The Long Road Home. If you haven’t read my novel, please do. If you enjoy reading mystery thrillers and romantic suspense you’ll find amusement. The Long Road Home is available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and your favorite bookstores.

The Long Road Home, Carolyn M. Bowen, Author

A Short Blurb: The Long Road Home

A page-turning mystery about murder, money, and revenge set in Charleston SC.

Kate‭’‬s life was in turmoil after the death of her parents.‭ ‬She‭’‬d always been protected and sheltered by them.‭ ‬Suddenly she finds herself with a conniving fiancé living under her roof,‭ ‬a powerful businessman with terrorist ties from across the ocean trying to kill her and more family secrets than most American politicians.‭ ‬She was also unaware that a half brother she knew nothing of was about to enter her life.‭ ‬Her situation was getting precarious right at the moment she was least able to cope with it.

Reviewers Wanted: Genre: Fiction, Crime Detective, Mystery, Suspense/Thriller, and Romantic Suspense ~  If you’re the real deal, reader/reviewer and would like a copy of my book, The Long Road Home, let me know and I’ll send you a Kindle version with no strings. Thank you!

ATTN: Book Clubs
Contact me about reading and discussing The Long Road Home for your special discount.

More Good News

I’m so happy about launching The Long Road Home! I’m offering Cross-Ties Novel with reduced pricing. It’s a story about love, passion, and family with some hiccups here and there. (Historical Fiction) Purchase today at Amazon: Paperback $9.99 – MatchBook $0.99 – Kindle $1.99 and Barnes and Noble -$9.99.

national-iced-teaA Taste of Southern Living

The Long Road Home dives right into southern living. I’ve been doing some southern cooking but can’t get the recipe just right for the Southern Corn Pone like my granny used to make. It would be tasty with some black-eyed peas and ham hocks. If you have a family recipe you’d share with me, I’d appreciate it.

I post writing news and inspirational information daily on my social media sites. I invite you to connect with me there also. Thanks for sharing the love, Carolyn

Social Media Sites – Say hello here!

Twitter
Goodreads
Google+
Facebook

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Fun Challenge: Unlock the Mysteries of the Romantic Suspense, The Long Road Home

Quote of the Day: My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style. Maya Angelou

Thank you for your response to my latest romantic suspense novel, The Long Road Home.  Drum roll please: Woo Hoo! The Goodreads Giveaway just ended and the winner’s copies have been mailed. Over one-thousand readers signed up for a chance to win a signed copy. I am grateful for your interest in my novels. If you are visualizing me jumping up and down, you would be right! There’s still more to do to make The Long Road Home a bestseller in 2017. Ask everyone to leave a comment, text review or rating on their favorite book sites. This is one of the ways authors and their books can be seen by others.

The Long Road Home, Carolyn M. Bowen, AuthorBlurb: The Long Road Home by Carolyn M. Bowen

A page turning mystery about murder, money, and revenge.

Kate‭’‬s life was in turmoil after the death of her parents.‭ ‬She‭’‬d always been protected and sheltered by them.‭ ‬Suddenly she finds herself with a conniving fiancé living under her roof,‭ ‬a powerful businessman with terrorist ties from across the ocean trying to kill her and more family secrets than most American politicians.‭ ‬She was also unaware that a half brother she knew nothing of was about to enter her life.‭ ‬Her situation was getting precarious right at the moment she was least able to cope with it.

Reviewers Wanted: Genre: Fiction, Crime Detective, Mystery, Suspense/Thriller, and Romantic Suspense ~  If you’re the real deal, reader/reviewer and would like a copy of my book, The Long Road Home, let me know and I’ll send you a Kindle version with no strings. Thank you!

ATTN: Book Clubs
Contact me about reading and discussing The Long Road Home for your special discount.

More Good News

I’m so happy about launching The Long Road Home! I’m offering Cross-Ties Novel with reduced pricing. It’s a story about love, passion and family with some hiccups here and there. (Historical Fiction) Purchase today at Amazon: Paperback $9.99 – MatchBook $0.99 – Kindle $1.99 and Barnes and Noble -$9.99.

I post writing news and inspirational information daily on my social media sites. I invite you to connect with me there also. Thanks for sharing the love, Carolyn

Social Media Sites

Twitter
Goodreads
Google+
Facebook

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