Posted on

The Long Road Home: Sometimes the Greatest Journey Leads You Back to Yourself

As summer begins to wind down, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the journeys we’ve taken—not just the vacations and road trips, but the unexpected paths life places before us. Some roads are carefully planned. Others appear only after heartbreak, loss, or difficult choices.

That idea inspired The Long Road Home.

An image of the background and the print book,and eBook covers for Carolyn Bowen's novel, The Long Road Home.

Although many readers know me through the Sydney Jones Series or the Family Legacy Series, The Long Road Home holds a special place in my heart because it explores a different kind of suspense—one built around love, family, hidden secrets, and the search for truth.

Set among the beauty of Charleston, South Carolina, the elegance of Southwood in England, the tropical charm of Antigua, and the coastal serenity of Seagrove, Florida, this story takes readers on an emotional journey where every destination reveals another piece of a decades-old mystery.

At its heart, The Long Road Home asks an important question:

Can we ever truly escape the past, or must we finally confront it to find peace?

The characters discover that the answers they’re searching for aren’t always where they expect to find them. Family secrets, unexpected danger, and the possibility of new love intertwine as they uncover truths that have remained buried for years.

One of the greatest joys of writing this novel was creating characters who feel real—people whose strengths and weaknesses shape every decision they make. I hope readers find themselves cheering for them, worrying about them, and celebrating their victories along the way.

Whether you’re already familiar with my books or discovering my writing for the first time, The Long Road Home offers an unforgettable blend of romantic mystery, emotional storytelling, and page-turning suspense. Click the link below to enjoy reading or listening to The Long Road Home.

As an author, I enjoy writing stories that transport readers to beautiful places while reminding us that the greatest adventures are often the ones that transform us from within.

Thank you for allowing me to share these journeys with you. Your encouragement, reviews, and messages continue to inspire every story I write—including Book Three of the Family Legacy Series, now well underway.

Until next month…

Happy Reading, Carolyn Bowen

Posted on

Unveiling Legacy of Shadows: A Tale of Love, Loyalty, and Betrayal

Hello, dear readers!

I am excited to bring you some fantastic news! Legacy of Shadows, Book 2 in The Family Legacy Series, is now available for a special limited-time offer! From September 3rd, 8 am PST, through September 10th, you can get the eBook for just $1.99. Suppose you enjoy being transported to picturesque settings filled with intrigue, romance, and suspense. In that case, this is your chance to follow David’s journey through the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany, Italy, and the historic streets of Savannah, Georgia.

About Legacy of Shadows

When family loyalties clash with deadly ambitions, who can you trust? Set in the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany, Legacy of Shadows thrusts you into a gripping world of love, betrayal, and dangerous secrets. David, the heir to the prestigious Mandarino Estate, is caught in a tangled web of family rivalries and criminal threats. His wife, Zana, lies in a coma after a brutal attack, and whispers of betrayal echo through his closest circles. Could his own blood brother be behind the deadly conspiracy?

David’s search for answers takes him across continents to Savannah, Georgia, where a fleeting affair resurfaces with shocking news—a child he never expected. Between protecting his family, confronting old sins, and navigating the ruthless underworld of mafia power struggles, David is forced to make choices that could either save or destroy everything he holds dear.

In this pulse-pounding thriller, every decision could be the one that topples his empire. Can David outsmart his enemies and secure his family’s legacy, or will he lose it all to the shadows lurking in the dark? Dive into Legacy of Shadows, where every page crackles with tension, passion, and high-stakes drama.

A Chance to Read Both Books in the Series!

For those who haven’t yet read the first book, The Death of Me, it’s often said that the experience of Legacy of Shadows is even richer after immersing yourself in the world established in Book 1. Good news – both books are currently available for FREE on Kindle Unlimited! Here’s your chance to read The Family Legacy Series from the beginning and see why readers are enthralled by this multi-layered, suspenseful saga. Click the link below to order both novels.

Amazon Author Page

Your Thoughts Matter to Me

I truly hope you enjoy reading Legacy of Shadows as much as I enjoyed writing it. It’s a story filled with passion, tension, and the resilience of the human spirit, all set within the lush landscapes of Italy and the rugged, unpredictable terrains of personal loyalty and love.

If you feel inspired, I’d love for you to share your thoughts on Amazon and your favorite book platforms. Your reviews mean the world to me and help other readers discover the twists and turns of the Mandarino family saga.

Thank you for your continued support and for sharing this journey with me. Here’s to many more stories and adventures to come!

Warm regards,

Carolyn Bowen

Posted on

Uncover Deadly Secrets in ‘The Death of Me’ – Gripping Italian Mafia Thriller!

The Death of Me by Carolyn Bowen

Greetings, fellow readers! As the lazy days of summer beckon us to relax and savor the season, it’s the perfect time to immerse ourselves in captivating stories that transport us to thrilling and mysterious worlds. If you have an affinity for Italian Mafia thrillers woven with romance and suspense, then “The Death of Me” is a book that deserves a prominent place on your summer reading list. Join us as we delve into the dark and intriguing tale that awaits these pages.

Embrace the Summer Vibes

For me, the summer season is synonymous with cherished moments of relaxation, whether it’s taking breaks with my feline companions in our cozy abode or embarking on adventures to the sun-kissed beaches or the refreshing Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s a time to unwind and revel in the cooler temperatures. How about you? How are you planning to make the most of this summer season?

Relaxation Time

Summer Reading Essentials

Speaking of summer delights, what could be more enticing than curling up with a compelling book that keeps you hooked from the first page to the last? As an Amazon author, I’m excited to announce my participation in Prime Day, where you can get a special limited offer discount on “The Death of Me,” my latest Italian Mafia thriller. From July 8-15, grab the Kindle version for an irresistible price of just $2.99. And for all the Kindle Unlimited users out there, the best news awaits you – you can read it for FREE! Don’t forget to capture your reading experience with a photo and share it with me – I would truly appreciate it.

Unveiling the Plot

“The Death of Me” introduces us to David, a man who sought refuge in the tranquil landscapes of Tuscany to find solace and focus on his philanthropic endeavors while leaving his family’s underworld business behind. However, fate has a cruel twist in store for him when a dear friend is ruthlessly murdered, plunging him into the depths of organized crime.

As David reluctantly assumes a leadership role, he must navigate the treacherous world of the mob while finding himself entangled in a passionate and dangerous romance with a captivating young intelligence agent. But in a world where trust is a rare commodity, traitorous threats from within and his lover’s uncertain standing with Italian authorities threaten to undo everything he holds dear.

A Legacy Shrouded in Darkness

“The Death of Me” unfurls a gripping tale that interweaves family secrets, murder, and the unbreakable bond of the Italian Mafia, casting a shadow over David’s noble intentions. Can he defy the odds, survive the sinister games at play, and lead the family business into a brighter future while leaving behind a legacy of goodness? Or will he succumb to the deadly secrets embedded within his Tuscan inheritance?

 “The Death of Me” is a masterfully crafted fusion of romance and suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the final page. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine world of the Italian Mafia as you accompany David on his perilous journey, filled with unexpected twists, heart-stopping betrayals, and a relentless pursuit of truth and redemption. Prepare to be captivated by this enthralling tale and allow it to transport you to a realm where honor and darkness collide. So, grab your Kindle, pack your summer essentials, and embark on an unforgettable reading adventure with “The Death of Me.”

The Death of Me by Carolyn Bowen

Posted on

Self-publishing vs Traditional Publishing

Quote of the Day: A professional writer is an amateur who didn’t quit.” Richard Bach

Photo Credit: Luisella Planeta Leoni – Pixabay

Today I’m writing about self-publishing versus traditional publishing. One of my Instagram fans asked the question about the pros and cons of each. My reply was it’s a subject requiring more than a line or two for an explanation of my views. Depending on who you ask, you’ll likely get a different response. That’s ok to listen or read them all and make your own decision about what works best for you.

The Pros of Self-Publishing

  • Control of content
  • Timeline for delivery
  • Ownership of copyright
  • Marketing freedom (design and publish)
  • Sales information confidential
  • Larger royalty – Paychecks every 60 days for what you’re doing right now.
  • Customer accessibility
  • Free advertising for your author brand – on booksellers’ platforms

The Cons of Self-Publishing

  • Author platform – Website (design and maintenance especially security)
  • Responsible for all aspects of publishing
    • Editing and formatting
    • Registering copyright and obtaining ISBN identity
    • Book covers – Professionally designed
    • Creating a description and short blurb about the novel – Your own or freelanced
    • Developing advanced reader fanbase
    • Publishing decisions: For example, go exclusive or wide including multiple author platforms.
    • Publicist – Help for getting your novel seen by readers!
    • Book Reviews – Paid – Remember reviews sell books and editorial reviews from paid sources can be used on your website and marketing materials.
    • Marketing – Development and Expense
    • Marketing tools and resources – software, freelancers, etc.
    • Digital – Social Media Sites – creation and updates
    • Development and purchasing of ads

Pros – Traditional Publishing – The BIG 5

  • Partnership and collaboration for the success of your novels
  • Knowledge and name recognition (how to place your novel to become a bestseller)
  • Inhouse advance readers fanbase for your genre
  • Phenomenon Marketing – digital and traditional
  • Advance for copyrights for novel/s present and future royalties

Cons – Traditional Publishing – The BIG 5

Note: Provide a manuscript with professional editing and formatting for the agent. The Big 5 deal exclusively with agents.

  • Literary Agent – Querying and obtaining an agent – Finding the right fit with your writing style and genre may be time-consuming and negligible.
  • Copyright ownership shifts
  • Loss of creative/marketing input
  • Smaller royalty over time – based on the original contract

Take Always

Patience, practice, and persistence – keep working at creating your best novel.

Practice without progressing in your craft is useless. Learn as you go along. Read and write every day. Be professional and kind to others including your fellow authors.

If you could choose which path to follow, would you go the traditional publishing route or indie? Talk to me and let me know your thoughts.

Thank you for following my blog for updates about my writing life. I appreciate your support. Carolyn M. Bowen

My latest Sydney Jones Series Book 2 is coming soon. Are you a reader and reviewer or book blogger of murder mysteries and women’s crime fiction? Leave your contact information below and receive an advance readers’ PDF copy of my latest novel when available.

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

###

Posted on

Book Review: Divorce Is Murder

Quote of the Day: “People say, ‘What advice do you have for people who want to be writers?’ I say they don’t really need advice, they know they want to be writers, and they’re gonna do it. Those people who know what they really want to do this and are cut out for it, they know it.” R.L. Stine

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Divorce Is Murder: A Toby Wong Novel by Elka Ray

Book Review

A long-ago traumatic experience at Camp Wikwakee leaves Toby with shameful feelings in adulthood. And, yes, she’d gotten counseling. But just when she thinks she’s making progress; she’s reminded again of that humiliating awful night.

Toby now an attorney returned to her hometown in Victoria Canada to care for her mother, Ivy. One of her first clients was Josh, the best-looking and most unattainable guy from summer camp. The memories burnt into her mind come full circle when she sees him.

She debated whether to represent him. The attraction to him was strong. But seeing him brought back the repulsion of being confined in the damp insect ridden Wikwakee cabin and the fallout afterward. She wondered if he stood up for her against the bullies. Somehow, she doubted it since he married the most vicious bully of all, Tonya Cabrilatto.

Now, he’s seeking a divorce attorney and melting in his presence with conflicting feelings, she had agreed. Her role changed quickly when he became a prime suspect in the murder of his wife. She referred him to the leading criminal attorney in town, Jackie, who is also her best friend Quinn’s mother.

Jackie recovering from injuries enlisted her aid for building a case for him. Toby investigates and finds incriminating evidence involving those from summer camp. Josh lied to her and yet she still gets flustered and was gullible to his advances. But, is he a psychopath with murderous tendencies?

Divorce is murder and the nemeses from camp are involved. And, one murdered Tonya, Josh’s wife. How far back does the treachery go – Camp Wikwakee?

Ray provides layer upon layer of intrigue with the intermeshing of the personal and social lives of the main characters. Her description of the characters and scenic imagery places you in the story. This whodunit will keep you guessing to the end. Highly recommended reading. 5 Star Review – Carolyn Bowen

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

###

 

Posted on

Putting the Social in Social Media

Quote of the Day: “Sometimes you only need to look at other high achievers to remember how GREAT you can become. You can do ANYTHING, and don’t you forget it.” Marsha Wright

Photo Credit: Pixabay

First a disclaimer: Twitter is my happy place for knowing what’s happening right now. Being fascinated by the weather for family and friends live on the coast, and the last BIG one left its mark, I get up-to-date warnings on Twitter from reliable sources. But there’s more, business, financial, travel, and entertainment news is always flowing with what’s happening around the world. Of course, these are my favorite topics. You can find your own by simply following leaders in the industry or related hashtags.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

However, the news potential isn’t why I love Twitter. It’s the people making the Twitter community a place you’d want to hang out. The influencers and fans with an attitude of gratitude and willingness to share positivity are who make a world of difference.

I am thankful for my readers and fans that are diligent in supporting my writing life. I feel like we live in the same neighborhood. We do –Twitterville. I’d know them walking down the street and be glad to have potluck dinner with them.

Then there are the mega influencers like Marsha Wright who promotes the hashtag #ThinkBigSundayWithMarsha and retweets positive sayings and quotes to 600K followers. Wright is a serial entrepreneur, #1 international bestselling author, syndicated columnist, CEO of PromoNation.co and the top 5 marketing influencer. Follow here: Real Marsha Wright® | Top 5 Marketing Influencer

Does she make a difference? Yes. Follow and read her posts and you too will develop a positive attitude.

Thanks for following my blog. Say hello on Twitter @cmbowenauthor. Thanks, Carolyn Bowen

###

Posted on

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

###

Posted on

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

###

Posted on

Reader’s Fun Giveaway

Reader’s Favorite Fun Giveaway

Book Blogger, Summer Giveaway

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Quote of the Day:  “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

Spring is about new beginnings and having fun with beach season right around the corner. The days grow longer when the summer solstice arrives June 21st.  I can’t think of a better way to kick start the season than with a fun giveaway for loyal and new readers. Let the fun begin!

Game Plan

Hit the subscribe (follow) button and share on Twitter tagging me with your favorite quote, scene, or why you like a certain character from any of my novels. Use hashtag: #ReadersGiveaway

Novels by Carolyn M. Bowen

Cross-Ties, The Long Road Home, and Primed For Revenge, The Sydney Jones Series Book 1.

For example Cross-Ties – quote “Bless Your Heart,” Leah figured out the southern meaning behind the phrase. It wasn’t as expected. #ReadersGiveaway

Winner Prizes

Enter for a chance to win a signed copy of Carolyn Bowen’s book of your choice and a $25 gift certificate. The winner is selected by the most tweets with the hashtag #ReadersGiveaway – Deadline midnight June 21st.

Deadline: Midnight -June 21st

Thanks for following my blog/newsletter. I hope to see you on Twitter soon sharing this fun giveaway.

###