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It’s Not You – It’s Me!

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Quote for Today: “Just as you don’t need to be on every single TV channel, I don’t believe a brand needs to be on every single social media one in a big way.” – Shiv Singh

The new social marketing trends for 2019 are captivating. This one caught my eye with understanding behind the motivation. Put simply, there’s a rising desire for small businesses to cut back their social media posting across multiple platforms.

The reasons are persuasive for analyzing what’s working or not. Social media is time-consuming and is linked to depression for some users. Actively participating costs time and money that may be better spent elsewhere.

The time and resources to create and develop new products and the cost of doing business through these channels is a key point. The need to evaluate the return on the investment (ROI) for the monies spent creating posts, images, videos, etc. is crucial. For example, just because an influencer says there making sales with their storytelling online doesn’t cut it anymore. The proof is in dollars and cents. It has to be experienced for one.

Cross-Stepping MoneyFor example, have you encouraged folks to like your page on a social platform to find few ever saw your creative postings? That’s a dead-end to organic growth from your efforts. The caveat – is until you promoted or sponsored the post as an ad don’t expect growth. Then, the results will depend on the product, the precise targeting, and other demographic variables. And, only a small percentage will click through to become subscribers or potential consumers.

The dollars spent cultivating these type fan bases have been sucked into a dark hole never to be seen again. Take time to study and learn from others about what’s working and make changes as needed. Don’t waste your time and money doing the same old thing expecting different results.

Recently we learned Google+ was ending their social platform that according to some news reports was designed to compete against Facebook. I am sorry to see these changes but understand the reasons behind it. If something isn’t meeting the business goals – end it.

However, this is one of my favorite and largest fan bases. I welcome all my fans to follow my website blog for the latest news about my writing life. In the meantime, I’m staying to the end. The latest report is that Google+ Support will be cut off on December 11th and the app will shut down completely on March 12th, 2018.

I plan to continue evaluating where my advertising dollars are best spent across the web and what social media platform/s helps me achieve my goals. I’ll tell you more about my mistakes in marketing and one I’m correcting soon. Hint: Develop your own real estate.

You can catch me posting on my favorite social platforms daily. Why? Because of the friendships I’ve developed over time and the encouragement and mutual sharing of ideas. What are your social media marketing plans for 2019?

love-1100253__340Shopping for a special someone in your life? Whoever it is, we’re guessing they’d love a good book, because who doesn’t? Look no further than action-packed books by 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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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!

Goodreads

Twitter

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

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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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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!

Goodreads

Twitter

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

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Social Marketing Today

Quote of the Day: Everyone lives by selling something. Robert Louis Stevenson

Social Marketing Today, Carolyn M Bowen Author
Photo Credit: Pixabay

The art of marketing is solidified when you have identified your target market, folks who are interested in your products and services and provide a means to communicate. Today, social media plays an important role in connecting with like-minded people – talking and listening. But, how do you choose which platforms to use for finding your audience and potential customers?

When you are able to see the overall picture and plan your business future, you’ve just become an author, the business end of being a writer.

Answering the Question

For me, as much as I enjoy creating and sharing photos/videos when posting about my books, I’ve got to be aware of the conversion rate. As an author, you need to know how and where to get your books in the hands of interested readers. I asked the question, where are my potential readers hanging out and what site delivers the best return on my investment?

Having lots of followers on social media isn’t the point. Having people interested in what you say and your offerings are important and play a key role in building relationships.

Many new small businesses rush to share on most or all of the social media platforms. Take your time. Begin with two or three of the major ones and expand from there, if desired.

I would suggest sites, in the least, where everyone who follows can see your posts without advertising. I’m not saying don’t advertise, you can pick a post that’s performing well within your community, tweak it and monitor the results.

My favorite social sites for some time have been Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.

As mentioned in an earlier post, Google+ is phasing out this platform as currently operated. I’m sad. Second, Twitter has always been a great site for me although the news feed moves quickly. Your post most often has a shelf life of 30 minutes max. The good news is your posts are shown to everyone and advertising is affordable if desired. And, third, Pinterest is a fun place to show-off both personally and professionally. It is a behind the scenes kind of thing that allows followers to get to know the real you.

If you enjoy photos and following the trends for just about anything life has to offer, you’ll love this site. Me, I especially love the cute kitties, travel, fashion, and meeting book lovers!

I’m trying out a new site, MeWe.com, the next-gen social network. I like the idea of a site engineered with privacy in mind and the ability to connect with like-minded folks. I’m learning the ropes and will share more about my experiences in a later post.

Do you have favorite social media sites? I’d love to hear from you about what works for your business. Note: I’m on other social sites for various reasons – business and personal.

The Writing Life, Carolyn M. Bowen
Photo Credit: Pixabay

Latest Writing News

There’s a new mystery/thriller release coming up in my near future. If you’d like to become a part of my advance launch team and receive a free copy, sign-up below. Thank you!

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Google Plus Shutting Down

Quote of the Day: The only thing a person can ever really do is keep moving forward. Take that big leap forward without hesitation, without once looking back. Simply forget the past and forge toward the future. Alyson Noel

Google Plus Shutting Down, Carolyn Bowen Author

One of my favorite and most enriching social media sites is shutting down following a security breach. The consumer version of Google Plus will no longer be available as its being phased out over a six month period.

I’ve developed relationships with some cool folks on this social platform. I’ll post alternative sites like Twitter and Facebook for us to connect and of course, my website and am hopeful many will follow. However, right now all I can do is cry!

I’ve enjoyed looking at pictures from around the world and connecting with the photographers (friends) who allowed us a peek into their lives and country.

I’ll be reading a book or watching a movie or TV series and have friends on Google+ post the exact spots where the action took place along with comments. These may be little things too many, but they’re a breath of fresh air for those interested in the variety of topics posted on Google+.

So, I’ll get busy and do my best to stay connected. If you’re following me on Google+, please hit the follow button, I want our relationship to continue.  While I’m at it, a special thank you for sharing my post on other social sites. I noticed. And, it’s most appreciated. Hope to see you soon! Carolyn Bowen

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

Facebook

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

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The Travesty of Self-Deception

The Travesty of Self-Deception
Photo Credit: Pixabay

Quote of the Day: Life isn’t about maneuvering in a straight upward line. It’s about negotiating the dips, twists, and turns encountered in everyday life thereby removing obstacles standing in your path to claim your noble calling. CMBowen Author

Now available in the Timeless Edition.

The first sentence in M. Scott Peck’s book, The Road Less Traveled, says “Life is difficult.”  What a downer or surprise for those who believe failure is not an option.

Many years ago with the first edition, I wanted to quit reading after the first sentence. My definition of life was the direct opposite. Yet, I continued reading and joined a book study group to get the full force of the meaning and basis for the book. I’ll add here the end results enlarged my thinking to transcend difficulty and surrounded me with lots of warm, fuzzy feelings.

Struggle too many is unacceptable. If it becomes too hard they quit. But, the question comes to mind, how long should you struggle, sometimes leaving a trail of brokenness in your wake? Perhaps, you’re barking up the wrong tree decoded means this business/career is not for you. Highlight: There is a special way for you to showcase your talents. Go back to square one!

The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over expecting different results.

If you’re repeating previous failures, stop now and get some help before your upside down peeking out a mouse hole.

Question for Today

How long do you think you should attempt to accomplish a goal? For example, building a business, before quitting?

I look forward to reading your comments. Thank you, Carolyn Bowen

As always, I appreciate your following my blog and reading my books. Hope you’ll check out my “About Page” to learn more about my books and writing life.

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

Facebook

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

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Latest Writing News

Quote of the Day: “To think to long about doing a thing often becomes its undoing.” Eve Young

person writing on white book
Photo by rawpixel.com on Pexels.com

Sunday’s are a day of reflection and planning around my house for me. Today is exciting as I look forward to my next creative venture. And, you’re invited to participate in my latest Sunday fun day idea!

The V.I.P. Launch Team

Team members will receive the first copy of my new books for review and comments. Also, members will have the opportunity to win prizes of a few of my favorite things – books and more. Join the V.I.P. Group today. Thanks for your support!

 

Free Gift For Subscribing to “The Writing Life!”

Please leave your name and email address for a free Kindle version of “Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success!” by Carolyn Bowen. Limited Offer – Act Now!

Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success

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,” career coach 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! #SelfHelp #MentalHealth #Bestseller

Life is precious – go live it! ~ Carolyn M. Bowen

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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Latest Writing News

Thoughts for Today: “Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.” Bernard M. Baruch

Summer Fun

This month has started off with a bang! I was tickled to see “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success,” ranked by Amazon as a #1Bestseller hot new release immediately upon the July publication through August 9th. Now, thanks to my fans it’s still hanging out at the top of the list.

I’m offering a chance to WIN a FREE Kindle version on an Amazon Giveaway.  It’s also free for Amazon Kindle Unlimited users!

Are you a Goodreads follower? Enter for a chance to win one of 50 copies of  “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success,” by Carolyn Bowen. Learn how to change your world one step at a time.

As you can see, I’m pretty excited about this new personal development book. 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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Hello April…

April hath put a spirit of youth in everything. William Shakespeare

Hello April, Flowers, The Writing Life

Spring is showing up all around with buds popping out of the once desolate landscape. In the United States, it won’t be long before flowers are in full bloom and trees take on their spring foliage.

Spring sparks the intellect with youthful prose and the imagination soars to new heights. Enjoy the season and allow your creativity to blossom in your writing lives.

My Writing Life

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

5 Stars, Book Review, The Writing Life, Hello AprilLatest Book Review News

Woo Hoo! 5 Stars by Readers’ Favorite – Read the review here! The Long Road Home by Carolyn Bowen

Crime Fiction/Mystery Book Reviewers

I’m looking for book reviewers who would like to read my new crime fiction and receive an advance copy prior to the release date. I’d love your feedback!

5 Fun April Facts & Trivia

  1. April is named after the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite.
  2. The diamond is April’s birthstone.
  3. This month has many month-long programs: National Poetry Writing Month, National Financial Literacy Month, and Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
  4. In the Roman calendar, April is spelled Aprilis, meaning – to open. The trees and plants begin to open to bloom and flower during this month.
  5. April’s Honorary Flowers are Daisies and Sweet Peas.

April Calendar of Events

  • Apr 10     National Library Workers’ Day
  • Apr 13     Thomas Jefferson’s Birthday
  • Apr 26     Take our Daughters and Sons to Work Day
  • Apr 27     Arbor Day  ~ State holiday ~ Nebraska

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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