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Catch the spirit of the island – Bajan style

NEW RELEASE IN MYSTERY SERIES

The featured setting in my latest release ONE, Sydney Jones Series, book 3 is Barbados. Ah, and what a beautiful scenic destination with beautiful people dedicated to keeping their culture alive.

In all my novels, food is important to the family and cultural exploration of the scenic vistas. The recipe below is one of Sydney’s son, David’s favorite dishes. He believes no one can cook it like a native, and he’s right!

Macaroni Pie – Bajan Recipe (Barbados.org)

  • 1/2-pound tubed macaroni
  • 4 cups grated cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp. yellow mustard
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 1 egg, beaten

Bring salted water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Break the macaroni tubes into thirds and add to the boiling water. Cook uncovered until macaroni is tender but still firm.

Preheat oven to 350F (180C).

Drain the macaroni and return to the saucepan.

Add the onion, cheese, milk, ketchup, mustard, and egg. Add salt and pepper to taste. Herbs such as marjoram and thyme can also be added.

Pour into a greased dish and top with more grated cheese. Fine breadcrumbs can also be added as a topping.

Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Macaroni pie can be served as a side with fish, chicken, pork, stew… whatever you wish really.

Do you want to explore touristy destinations with mystery and political suspense hidden behind every dune, then the Sydney Jones Series (Trilogy) is your next read! The complete series is now available at Amazon in the box set. I can’t wait for your ah-ha moment!

Follow on Pinterest for my attempt on the dish’s native to the regions in the Sydney Jones Series! Warning, David, Sydney’s son has it right the natives serve it up best! Join the fun and post to my novel fan pages with cultural and/or scenic images that remind you of the book. Thanks, Carolyn Bowen

Pinterest

Sydney Jones Series Book 3

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All Hands on Deck

Quote of the Day: We will be known forever by the tracks we leave. – Dakota

We’ve kicked off the promotions for the Sydney Jones Series and want to say thank you for supporting our new mystery series. If you want to be one of the first to know about future releases, sign up below. Here’s a snippet about the Sydney Jones Series Books 1 & 2.

Exciting news

Chance – A Novel is available for download FREE with Kindle Unlimited or purchase as a  paperback or ebook.

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.

Primed For Revenge, Sydney Jones Series Book 1 is 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

Book 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.

Sign me up!

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Charge of The Light Brigade and E-Books Pricing

Quote of the Day: “Conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth.” – John F. Kennedy, 35th president of the United States of America

Photo Credit: Pixabay

The Writing Life

Writers are creative in placing words on the page one after another. The logical next step is publishing if you want your work to be read by the masses. This is when a writer become a publisher or an entrepreneur regardless of whether an indie writer or represented by a large publishing company. Today’s publishing world requires the author to have a huge stake in the promotion and sale of their books.

There are many aspects that play a role in the sale of a book. Here are a few of my thoughts about book production and promotions.

  • Great writing and production of work
  • Professional editing and formatting
  • Outstanding professional book cover
  • Marketing strategy – business plan
  • Book Pricing

Book World

A good portion of the books in today’s market are priced according to the competition. The scale hasn’t moved in years. However, the price for producing and marketing has skyrocketed. From advertising on major social platforms and search engines, websites, apps, books reviews, to the basics for creating your book and marketing. For example, keywords used for advertising are sometimes greater than the overall pricing of one book.

I’m reminded of the poem: The Charge of the Light Brigade by Lord Alfred Tennyson. The poem tells the story of six-hundred men who followed their leader to certain death. A clip with dialog from the poem as seen in the movie, Blindside is below.

What I’ve Learned

We can continue to follow the leader into a certain death of writing careers or make changes.  Isn’t it about time pricing and selling books be measured by the costs to produce the product AND relative competition? How many businesses do you know would charge pennies for an item they’d spend several hundred/thousands of dollars to produce? The results would be a disaster and certain death for the business. There are lessons to be learned from The Charge of The Light Brigade. Treat your writing career as a business and use sound practices to measure your success.

Note: The e-book pricing suggested is created by a mathematical calculation, and research of comparable books in your genre. This is not an arbitrary number pulled out of the sky. Remember: Pricing is not set in stone; you can always change it as do most book marketers.

There’s fear involved in making any changes and I’m not immune. However, if you’re tired of feeding the beast, it’s time to make changes. Here are a few things I do to promote my books. Let me know what’s working for you.

  • Provide FREE copies for book reviewers/bloggers
  • Develop an advance readers group to be first reviewers
  • Offer FREE books through sweepstakes on major social platforms and through booksellers
  • Run ad campaign with reduced pricing/or FREE Days

To learn about my writing life, click here. I wish you tremendous success as you develop your creative business. Carolyn Bowen

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Today’s Inspiration: Book Blog Tour

Quote of the Day: “It isn’t what you have or who you are or where you are or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It is what you think about it.” Dale Carnegie 

Today, I want to pay tribute to Win Kelly Charles who gives hope and inspiration to everyone she meets. Her latest book, She is CP, Butterflies of Wisdom is now up for votes on Something or OTHER publishing site.  Go here and vote for her book idea.

Check out her blog, A Diary of a Fashionista and her podcasts on itunes.

Win Kelly Charles is an inspiration. She is an author, blogger, podcaster, designer, and more.  One of her endearing qualities, is her passion for life and love of people. Whether in her business outlets or social platforms, she brings positive vibes to the table.

Check out Win’s latest release January 2019 – Smile with Dictation

Where to find Win Kelly Charles books on Amazon.

About Win Kelly Charles (Amazon bio excerpt)

Win Charles has Cerebral Palsy–she also has a thriving jewelry design company, enough metal in her feet to set off any airport’s metal detector, and a love of snowboarding. How do all of these things fit together?
Don’t be fooled. This isn’t a novel about hardships or all of the things a young woman with a disability can’t do. This is a story about LIVING, about doing it anyway, and about passion.
I hope you’ll check out Win’s books and vote for her book idea to be published and follow her Amazon Author’s Page for the latest news.
Thanks for stopping by today. I hope you’re enjoying  this fabulous spring season. Carolyn Bowen

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DECEMBER HOLIDAYS And Love – How They Are The Same?

DECEMBER HOLIDAYS And Love - How They Are The Same?, Christmas 2018, The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Quote of the Day: Remember This December, that love weighs more than gold! Josephine Dodge Daskam Bacon, American Writer

The holiday season is here and I’m counting down the days to Christmas. Everywhere I look, there’s a reminder of the coming of winter bliss.

This is the perfect time to spread good cheer and begin making plans for the New Year. What are your holiday plans?

The Writing Life, Carolyn M. Bowen, December Holidays
Photo credit: Pixabay

Family gatherings come to mind and sitting beside the fireplace in the still of the night with a great book and cup of cocoa are in my forethoughts. I hope you’ll make time for yourself this season to unwind and capture the precious moments that’ll never be again.

You’ve probably noticed from my blogging that I’m doing a lot of reading during this month. As I mentioned in earlier blogs, I read to learn more about the craft of writing, and marketing. I have a rotation going and share my reviews here and Goodreads primarily.

Author Updates

My next mystery novel is going through the final stages for publishing. If you’d like to be an advance reader, join my launch (street) team here. I look forward to your reviews.

As you go through the paces of preparing for and participating in the fascinating adventure of the Christmas holidays, I hope you’ll share love and kindness to all! Happy Holidays – Carolyn Bowen

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!

Goodreads

Twitter

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

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Courage Under Fire!

Courage Under Fire, Carolyn M. Bowen Author

Quote of the Day: “Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” – T.S. Elliot

Today’s topic is courage for I can’t think of a more pertinent quality and conduct for achieving success.

Courage Defined

Courage, bravery, valor, bravado refer to qualities of spirit and conduct. Courage permits one to face extreme dangers and difficulties without fear: to take (or lose) courage. Bravery implies true courage with daring and an intrepid boldness: bravery in a battle.

To step into your destiny and live your dreams for the future, courage or a lack thereof plays an important role. When you’re feeling courageous it seems the world is your template to create the lifestyle of your choosing.

When doubt intervenes in your thought processes, you become stuck in your tracks unable or fearful for making a decision that changes the status quo. Calculated change to your present circumstances can bring about the results you’re seeking. A shift in your mindset toward the idea of success and accomplishing your goals is the first step.

“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

What’s impeding your steps toward achieving your goals?

  1. Fear of judgment or being ridiculed
  2. The embarrassment of falling on your face in public
  3. Unsure of your capabilities for achieving your goals
  4. Not having a clear plan and strategy for success

The above are all possibilities if you focus on the downside. Some of the most successful people in history have failed, more than once, but they didn’t stop trying or believing in their goals.

“Worrying about something you can’t change will forever be the biggest waste of your time.” — Unknown

Fear of the unknown has caused many to stop in their tracks, don’t let that be your downfall. People who judge you most likely don’t know you. They’re likely acting out of jealousy, greed and/or shortcomings of their own. Don’t let anyone influence your life goals. Even those close to you, don’t know everything about you. Listen, and then make your own judgment calls.

Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear. Mark Twain

First, you’ve got to believe in yourself and your plans for the future. Then, have clearly defined goals and strategies for accomplishing your dreams or ideas for the future. Lastly, follow through on your plans and revise as needed to hit your mark.

What are your plans for success? Begin taking action today one step at the time. I’m looking forward to learning about your courageous leaps of faith to realize your dreams. Carolyn Bowen

Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success, Personal Development, Carolyn Bowen

Launching “Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success! ” has been a wonderful experience. Helping others live their best life now is rewarding. I’m looking forward to reading your reviews and comments about this potentially life-changing book.

Check out the latest book review for “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success.“  More reviews for my books are posted on my media page.

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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Prepping for October 2018

Quote for Today: “The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot.”  Michael Altshuler

October 2018, The Writing Life
Photo Credit: Pixabay

This month is swishing by like a video streaming of an Amtrac train blistering full throttle down the tracks. Sticking to my writing schedule is a daily priority and I am deliberate in making progress although tight-knuckled at times. I’m tickled to see the end in sight for my next project. I’ll tell you more about it next month. (Smiles)

I love celebrating special occasions and holidays are included in these fun days. The dates listed below are this month’s (Oct.) observances. Although I’m not a big fan of Halloween, I’ve noticed its’ growing popularity. So, enjoy and have fun trick or treating!

October Holidays

Monday, October 8 Columbus Day (Federal Holiday)

Wednesday, October 31 Halloween

What do you enjoy most about the fall season? Comment below!

Book Reviewers & Bloggers Wanted:

Do you want a sneak peek of my next novel? Sign up for a Kindle version for your review on major book platforms like Amazon, Goodreads, Barnes & Noble, and others. You’ll be added to my reviewers’ list and emailed your gift code with my appreciation. Thank you!

Latest Giveaway

Exciting news! Subscribe to receive the latest updates about book releases, reviews, giveaways, and receive a free Kindle version of Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success! Limited Offer – Act Now! Note: If you follow using a social media sign-in, please provide an email address to send the gift in privacy mode. Thank you!

Latest Book News

Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success, Personal Development, Carolyn Bowen

Launching “Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success! ” has been a wonderful experience. Helping others live their best life now is rewarding. I’m looking forward to reading your reviews and comments about this potentially life-changing book.

Check out the latest book review for “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success.“  More reviews for my books are posted on my media page.

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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My Great Expectations for Bubba Blue

Quote of the Day: The 99.99% of all castles in America are located in fish tanks. Demetri Martin

Bubba Blue, The Writing Life, Bubba Blue & Tookie, Carolyn M. Bowen Author, Books, Book blogging, Online Holiday Shopping

My Great Expectations for Bubba Blue

Bubba Blue, The Writing Life, Bubba Blue & Tookie, Carolyn M. Bowen Author, Books, Book blogging, Online Holiday ShoppingIf you know me, you’ll know that I have fish named after the heroines in my novels. That is except my newest Siamese fighting fish (Betta Fish), Bubba Blue. He’s so bold and fearless – Tookie our cat with paws grasping the inside the aquarium to say good morning doesn’t scare him or me either.

Bubba Blue, The Writing Life, Bubba Blue & Tookie, Carolyn M. Bowen Author, Books, Book blogging, Online Holiday ShoppingIt’s a ritual – Tookie wakes up and greets Bubba Blue with his face smashed against the glass! For the most part, even his brother by another mother, tabby Ollie, believes his desire for closeness is overwhelming, but not for Bubba Blue. They do this kissy thing and go about their own day.

Bubba Blue, The Writing Life, Bubba Blue & Tookie, Carolyn M. Bowen Author, Books, Book blogging, Online Holiday Shopping
Tookie & Bubba Saying Hello

I decided Bubba Blue needed a water filter (contraption) for his tank and off I went to the nearest big box store to purchase one. It’s the holiday season so I waited in line for my turn and was excited about hooking it up when I got home. Note: Betta Fish are not typically required filters but I was spending way too much money buying Betta water for our tap water even with recommended products still stunk after a few days.

I excitingly opened the box and read the directions for mounting this new life breather for Bubba Blue. Only the box didn’t contain all the necessary parts as indicated on the marketing blitz on the outside of the box. I had a choice – should I go online and find and order the missing parts from a reliable source? Trust me; I’m not going to wait in line to return it!

I went to my go-to reviews for products – Amazon and found something even better that would have saved me from the get-go of buying Bubba Blue. I should have brought him home and put him in a large clear vase with the roots of a Peace Lily to munch on while we waited for our purchase to arrive. But, I didn’t!

Bubba Blue, The Writing Life, Bubba Blue & Tookie, Carolyn M. Bowen Author, Books, Book blogging, Online Holiday Shopping
Bubba Blue

The good news is that Bubba Blue will have a new home soon. It will give him the space for swimming and enjoy the aquatic plants. Tookie can watch him 24-7 with the new light filters. I can’t wait to watch them play hide-n-seek!

Just remember the folks who draw your attention to shopping at Amazon. These Affiliates strive to bring you the corner store atmosphere while providing you their best offerings from Amazon. This is their local storefront and they pay plenty for that online website privilege. You know about Amazon, in part, because of these influencers! Bookmark their pages and when you order – place it through their websites where they’ll get a commission. It won’t cost you a dime more and these are the people who have influenced buyers to shop – Amazon!  Make sure they get a piece of the pie!

My bookmark is set at Roadtrips R Us (since 2011) – making daily food holidays and history come alive with the best in travel, in-house chef-inspired food recipes, and entertainment. Check them out and bookmark their Corner Gift Shop!

Now that Bubba Blue is all set and the Kitties seem happy too, I’ll sign off for now! Happy Holidays, Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

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

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

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

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