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The Godfather: Next Generation

This year we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of The Godfather. And the scenes behind the story are as interesting as the novel and movie that followed.

The sixty-page novel by Mario Puzo became a hit with the movie: The Godfather. Who according to the Time Magazine, the author wrote as a way to get out of debt. (The Story of The Godfather. Time Special Edition Magazine, 2022).

Great casting with Marlon Brando as the Godfather, and directed by Frank Ford Coppola made his dreams come true. His screenplay was brought to the studio’s attention, and after research and revisions it was produced, and became a big screen hit.

The Godfather was a harbinger of the times, breaking through the post-war mentalities, and introducing a story the boomers could relate too. It was deep, dark, and relevant to a generation that wanted to speak for itself. The Godfather was the sign of the times, in more ways than being a mafia behind the scenes’ exploitation of made-men and their adversaries. It was fitting of the era.

As when the Godfather was written, it’s time for the changing of the guard, a new godfather, a tech-savvy, environmentally conscious, physically skilled, and pumped marksman, that today’s world can relate to.

Welcome to the next generation Godfather. Read “The Death of Me” today! (And, like Mario Puzo, I need to get out of debt. An Olympian task for certain.) Click the link below to read today!

The Death of Me by Carolyn M Bowen

The Death of Me: The Next Gen Godfather
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Today’s Giveaway: The Long Road Home by Carolyn Bowen

Fall is in the air and expectations for the new season are something to talk about.

The Long Road Home

Do you love the change of seasons? The crisp morning air reminds us we have ventured into fall. A perfect time to relax with an exciting novel while enjoying your favorite beverage.

Exciting News.

Today’s feature is The Long Road Home! Download your eBook today FREE during this limited offer (October 5-9). Prefer reading a paperback or hardback? Place your order and enjoy sleuthing to determine Kate’s next move.

The Long Road Home.

The Long Road Home, a romantic murder mystery is available in digital, paperback, and hardcover at Amazon and your favorite bookstores.

Book Description

Kate’s life was in turmoil after the death of her parents. She’d been always 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.

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New Mystery-Thriller: Chance A-Novel

Quote of the Day: “There is no friend as loyal as a book.” Ernest Hemingway

Latest News

Chance A-Novel is now available at Amazon and you can read FREE with Kindle Unlimited. For mystery lovers who enjoy reading paperbacks, order yours here.

Thank you to all the readers and fans that supported this new release. You made the birthday celebration for Chance A-Novel a wonderful success. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Chance A-Novel Paperback Preview
Chance A-Novel Paperback Preview

For Mystery Lovers

You can download and read this new mystery-thriller, Chance A-Novel today, and be ready for some juicy conversations during the holiday season.

About Chance A-Novel

Walker didn’t plan to fall in love with Sydney. He blamed their closeness in proximity, horrid circumstances in her life, and no friends but a paid confidant to comfort her. There was no one to hold her in their arms, and that’s what the lady needed–to cry and release the pain in her life. Sydney struck a chord in his heart. Her beauty, along with her spark to keep going through the hell in her life, enamored him even more. Did he love her? Yes! The government had him now. It didn’t take him long to realize they’d framed him for Roxanne’s murder, then got his case dismissed when he agreed to become their agent. The problem was, Sydney may still think him guilty of murder. The agency didn’t give him time to discuss the dismissal of charges against him. All he could tell her was the government needed him and he was catching an early morning flight. When Sydney Jones’s bodyguard and lover, Walker, is framed by the CIA for the murder of a has-been rock star he once guarded, he has to leave the only woman he ever truly loved and go undercover for them or be found guilty and thrown in jail for life. He’s not even allowed to tell Sydney where he’s going or what he’s doing; he just has to…disappear.

Goodreads Giveaway

Goodreads Book Giveaway

Chance by Carolyn M. Bowen

Chance

by Carolyn M. Bowen

Giveaway ends December 01, 2019.

See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.

Enter Giveaway

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Cover Reveal: Chance – A Novel

Quote of the Day: “Don’t bend; don’t water it down; don’t try to make it logical; don’t edit your own soul according to the fashion. Rather, follow your most intense obsessions mercilessly.” Franz Kafka

Chance – A Novel (Sydney Jones Series Book 2) – November 5th, 2019

Excitement is in the air as I prepare to release, Chance – A novel, the second book in the Sydney Jones Series trilogy. This new psychological thriller is now available for preorder at the Amazon Kindle store.

I’ve worked with some super nice folks in preparing for this new release. Thank you!

If you are a book reviewer of mysteries and crime fiction especially women’s fiction, please contact me below for an advance reader’s copy for your enjoyment. If you’ve missed book one, Primed For Revenge, let me know so you’ll have the background for Chance – A Novel.

The official release date is Tuesday, November 5th. This will give you a chance to read and write your reviews prior to the holidays. Yes, I’m thinking of you – smiles!

From the back cover

Walker didn’t plan to fall in love with Sydney. He blamed their closeness in proximity, horrid circumstances in her life, and no friends but a paid confidant to comfort her. There was no one to hold her in their arms, and that’s what the lady needed—to cry and release the pain in her life.

Sydney struck a chord in his heart. Her beauty, along with her spark to keep going through the hell in her life, enamored him even more. Did he love her? Yes!

The government had him now. It didn’t take him long to realize they’d framed him for Roxanne’s murder, then got his case dismissed when he agreed to become their agent.

The problem was, Sydney may still think him guilty of murder. The agency didn’t give him time to discuss the dismissal of charges against him. All he could tell her was the government needed him and he was catching an early morning flight.

Click here to learn more about my books and purchase options.  Thank you for your continued support and encouragement. Carolyn

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Primed For Revenge – 5 Stars Review

Quote of the Day: But you have to allow a little for the desire to evangelize when you think you have good news. Larry Wall

Photo Credit: Pixabay

I love good news. And, early this morning I received some great news. My latest thriller, Primed for Revenge, the 1st in the Sydney Jones Series has received a 5 Star review from Readers’ Favorite.

An author loves readers/reviewers who understand the emotional peaks and valleys of the storyline from beginning to end. And, this reviewer, Ruffina Oserio does. Thank you!

Reviewed By Ruffina Oserio for Readers’ Favorite

Primed For Revenge: Sydney Jones Novel Series by Carolyn M Bowen is a spellbinding psychological thriller with a rock-solid female protagonist:  Sydney Jones works for Birdman & Birdman and at the time she is looking for bigger engagements in the firm, there is fallout with her boss. As if this wasn’t enough to rattle her nerves, she is abducted as she leaves the office. She is badly beaten and raped and sent home with warnings to never talk about the kidnapping. What is worse is that she has lost a great deal of her memory but she hasn’t forgotten her resolve for revenge. 

This is an interesting story about a character who is deeply hurt and damaged and who must navigate a very dangerous landscape to determine who kidnapped and hurt her and why. Her biggest challenge is identifying the right people to talk to. The reader follows her, feeling her pain and seeing her struggle with her options. Primed For Revenge is a sophisticated, deftly written thriller with a protagonist that instantly captured my attention. The pathos is strong as the reader watches her go through the rough experience. Her inner transformation and the quest for revenge are so real, reflecting the abuse she has experienced. The writing is wonderful and Carolyn M Bowen comes across as a perfect wordsmith. Primed For Revenge: Sydney Jones Novel Series is very engaging, emotionally rich, and fast-paced. The kind of book you read in one sitting. A highly recommended read – 5 Stars

Primed For Revenge, Sydney Jones SeriesHow To Order Your Copy!

Primed for Revenge is available online and at your favorite bookstores. Click here for more ordering options for an ebook or paperback. Thank you!

Amazon Kindle – Read Here

New Release News:

Sydney Jones Series Book 2 is in development and will be available online and in bookstores soon. I’m seeking advance mystery readers to provide feedback. Please let me know if you’re interested, and I’ll forward a PDF for your review.

 

Thanks for following my blog/newsletter. Hope to see you on social media (Twitter). Carolyn Bowen

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Dog Days of Summer Reading

Quote of the Day: “Smell the sea and feel the sky, let your soul and spirit fly.” Van Morrison

What are Dog Days of Summer?

The Dog Days of summer means the worst heat of the season will set in. Living in the south you know it’s time to find shade, cool bodies of water, and air conditioning. And, of course, a great mystery read.

When Are the Dog Days of Summer?

Yes, the season is here! Dog Days begin July 3rd and end August 11, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac. The 40 days of extreme heat coincides with the dawn rising of Sirius, the Dog Star.

Stay cool and hydrated while enjoying the offerings during the summer months. There’s no better time to catch up on your reading. Load up your bookshelves for beach reads and the long summer nights.

For mystery lovers, you’ll want to check out the special promotion for Primed For Revenge, Sydney Jones Series Book 1 at Smashwords. 
Primed For Revenge, Sydney Jones SeriesShort Blurb:

In a conspiracy to advert prosecution in a wrongful death suit, lead attorney Sydney Jones was targeted for removal from the case of Birdman & Birdman’s prestigious client. She didn’t go quietly. There were immediate repercussions and only the fittest would survive.

Check out the reviews on my media page for books by Carolyn M. Bowen.

Are you on Instagram? Follow here and share your photos of reading my novels. I’d love to see your favorite reading spots.

Thank you for supporting my writing life. Wishing you a safe and happy July 4th! Carolyn Bowen

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Summer Reading Kickoff

Quote of the Day: “What an astonishing thing a book is. It’s a flat object made from a tree with flexible parts on which are imprinted lots of funny dark squiggles. But one glance at it and you’re inside the mind of another person …” Carl Sagan

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Latest News: Summer Promotion

Love reading mystery-thrillers with a strong female lead character – then today is your day. Primed For Revenge, the first in the Sydney Jones Series is your right choice for entertainment. Join the thrill of reading with this special price promotion to kick off your summer fun.

A Short Blurb

Practicing law in a large partnership, Sydney Jones was primed for making partner. Then her life turned upside down after a disagreement with her boss at Birdman & Birdman.

Leaving the office, she was swiftly kidnapped and taken to her assailants’ hideaway, beaten, and raped. With no memory of whom she has put her at a disadvantage with her captors. Through gritted teeth, she promised a day of repercussions for their actions while mentally visualizing her revenge.

Warned by her assailants to keep her mouth shut or else, she was delivered to her home. Not recognizing her former living quarters, she was careful in exploring her options for regaining her memory.

Piecing together the reasons for her kidnapping brought her into contact with people, some she could trust and others risky. The problem was the amnesia prevented her from recognizing the difference.

Tapped for a crime once nudged her toward caution for something afoul was going on at Birdman & Birdman. She prepared for a fight. With a vision of fury, she made a chilling decision – never to be a victim again.

Where to order yours…

Primed For Revenge, Sydney Jones Series Book 1 is now available online and at your favorite bookstores in ebook and paperback format now! 

Amazon

B&N

Books-A-Million

Google Play

KOBO

Smashwords

Foyles – UK

Thank you for following my writing news and sharing on social media. I appreciate your support and look forward to your comments and reviews. Enjoy your upcoming summer reading! Carolyn Bowen

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An Evening with James Ellroy

Quote of the Day: “Good friends, good books, and a sleepy conscience: this is the ideal life.” Mark Twain

Los Angeles CA

The Los Angeles Review of Books (LARB) is hosting an evening with James Ellroy June 13th, 7:15 p.m.–10:30 p.m. at the historic Hancock Park O’Melveny estate of Brian Curran and Kevin MacLellan Los Angeles, CA 90020.

About the Author

Lee Earle “James” Ellroy is the author of the Underworld U.S.A. Trilogy: American Tabloid, The Cold Six Thousand, and Blood’s A Rover, and the L.A. Quartet novels: The Black Dahlia, The Big Nowhere, L.A. Confidential, and White Jazz.

Visit Eventbrite for more information and to reserve your ticket/s for a luminary evening with James Ellroy, a master of American mystery and crime fiction writing.

This event is organized by The Los Angeles Review of Books (LARB), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

 

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Author to Author: The Writing Life

Quote of the Day: You see, I am trying in all my stories to get the feeling of the actual life across – not to just depict life – or criticize it – but to actually make it alive. So that when you have read something by me, you actually experience the thing. You can’t do this without putting in the bad and the ugly as well as what is beautiful. Ernest Hemingway

Ernest Hemingway

One thing I think we can all agree on is the road to discovery for authors is challenging. We write and hope for the best reception for our stories. Most times it seems as though our stories come from a place of inspiration rather than a rational decision to write and plot around a specific topic. I’m speaking for myself here. If you have a writing method that works for you, good!

I’m going to skip right to reviews and reviewers for this is the pressure point for deciding the fate of your novel.

  • The shoot-gun approach to seeking reviews thinking everyone will want to read and leave a great review is a journey filled with perils and one you’ll most likely regret.

What to do!

Find your niche, your tribe, or following many say. Don’t send out review copies or place your work on websites that are not friendly to your genre. For example, you may ask why in the world someone would download and read or attempt to read about murder mystery if they find it appalling?

They do and are subject to leaving crass reviews making it difficult for real mystery lovers to find your novel. It doesn’t matter if you’ve written in Agatha Christie’s style or the most eloquent presentation of your story. Your novel and some readers just do not match. And, Lord help you if you get an overly zealous reviewer that goes to every site your novel is published on and shares their distaste. Please beware this is cyber-stalking!

You may ask, “Didn’t they read the novel’s description, clearly stating what it was about?”

I’m with you there. If a novel is crime fiction or in similar categories, you can expect a story line with gritty details about happenings that some may find offensive. That’s why their different genres for novels on all the platforms selling books.

What to do

  • Clearly identify the genre/s your novel falls into.
  • Write an accurate book description about your novel.
  • Find where the readers hang-out who would enjoy reading your story.
  • Think about groups on social media seeking books of your genre.
  • Your website is a goldmine and where true readers will navigate to keep up with your writing. Also, your website is the real estate that you own unlike the social platforms where you may post. Think back to social sites now dissolved and the followers that you no longer have access to.
  • Become a developer and up your game by engaging your fans on your website and where they hangout.
  • Find professional reviewers in your genre. You can post their reviews to your online book platforms.
  • Don’t give-up! There are readers who will enjoy your novels and give positive reviews. An interesting part of the writer’s journey is finding your base support. Once you do that, the sky is the limit. Go create!

 

If you’d like a sample of my new psychological thriller, Primed For Revenge, the 1st in the Sydney Jones Series, follow my blog using your email address and I’ll forward you a PDF of the first 25 pages. Note: Crime fiction, murder mystery, psychological thriller, adult rated!

I look forward to this new season and connecting with mystery lovers here and on social media. Carolyn Bowen

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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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