Serious Wednesday: A Taste of Readers' Thoughts About Hunter's Rose

Hunter's Rose, Book Two of the Troubles in the West series.  my newest published book, according to readers, is a delightful read. Here are some of their thoughts:

* WOW, this book was captivating from the very first chapter.

*  I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Christian Suspense Romance books. FANTASTIC BOOK!

* Wonderful read and I hope you take the time to read both books.

* Any time I pick up a book by Carole Brown, I know I will enjoy it, and this book lived up to my expectations. The suspense and danger in this book kept me reading. I found the characters captivating and the storyline powerful. Love and friendship highlight the pages of this book. I also appreciated how the story took some twists and turns. So if you enjoy Christian suspense novels, check out this book for yourself.

* You won’t want to put down this incredible story, filled with intrigue, kidnapping and more.

* If you like plenty of action within a parallel newlywed western, then Carole Brown’s storytelling of “Hunter’s Rose” is about as perfect as can be obtained.

(Book one is Caleb's Destiny)

If you'd like to order YOUR copy of either or both books,, go here:  https://amzn.to/3erjREA

Let me know what you think.

Serious Wednesday: The Birth of Fictional Characters

 

The Birth of Fictional Characters by Carole Brown

One of my favorite things when writing a new book, is to create the characters. When I wrote the first book in this series, there were quite a few comments about Hunter and Maria, the cook. Readers wanted to read a book about Hunter—Hunter's personal story. It was a nice affirmation because I'd already decided that the second book would be about Hunter, his love life and the trouble that created the tension in the book.

Hunter Carson is a fun character. With his father murdered while Hunter was just a child, he very well could have been abandoned to fate. Only another young person's intervention saved Hunter. He grew up to be a man that was both strong and trustworthy. He's a bit quick-on-the-trigger (as the saying goes) but he's also smart, loyal, not a bit stuck on himself, and overwhelmed that a beautiful Mexican girl like Rosita DeSantis could fall in love with him. He has the determination to protect her and the ability to give her pretty much anything she wants—without seeming pompous.

Rosita came from a rich, loving family who adored her, and as an only child was entitled to the family inheritance. Having to abandon that life, she was determined to pursue a different life style even when enduring hardship and fear. Nevertheless, she is a sweet, friendly and a loyal friend to those around her. She knows her own mind, yet is not pushy or obnoxious in her efforts, whether it be love or in scorning the man who insists he wants her back. Rosita is both smart and a real lady.

Carlos De Leon, the villain, on the other hand, is one of those persons who has everything: money, prestige, excellent features and education. Yet he lacks the character to realize that it's not always possible to have everything you desire. Determined to have what he wants and when, he is not afraid to sacrifice the people who he deems is hindering his quest.

And then, there are the secondary characters: those who support and somehow create interest, not only in themselves but in keeping a reader's interest in how and when the main characters will respond to them.

Could it be the downright good-looking Jackson who is quiet and withdrawn has a story? His support of Hunter, the tell-tell signs of his education, and the absence of any real knowledge of his past encourage the reader to imagine who he really is.

Then there's Gabrielle Autumn Mayfair, a quiet, rather shy girl who is more of a follower than a leader—until it comes to a man who catches her attention. Her friends worry that she may get hurt, but Gabrielle is more persistent than either of her best friends realize. This blondish-redhead has an endurance that may prove favorable—or it might end in a tragic heartache.

Sully, Old Peete, Nicolas, Susie and Maria—characters that flavor the reading and add some laughter, tension and mixed feelings about their possible hindrance or helpfulness.

Characters—one of the best and most fun parts of a book. I hope you readers will get to know the characters in Hunter's Rose and love (or hate) them as much as I did when creating the story.

Available:

http://amzn.to/3erjREA

Serious Wednesday: This Month: A Contest for Readers

Do You Love to Read? 

Then this contest is for YOU!!

If you've read BOOK ONE of the

Troubles in the West series, 

(Caleb's Destiny),

and you want to win BOOK TWO

Hunter's Rose,

then this one's for you:

To win a copy of 

Hunter's Rose,

Here's what to do:  

1.  Share about this contest,

then post your link here in the comments on where you shared

2.  Tell me why you should win this contest

3.  And why you want to read 

It's easy and fun! 

Follow the directions above

Make sure you do all THREE of the requirements,

AND then later this month,

I will choose ONE person to win

a KINDLE copy of 

Hunter's Rose,

Book Two

of the

Troubles in the West series. 

Have fun! 

Serious Wednesday: Hunter's Rose is Coming! Win it!

 In case you don't remember...

I mentioned in a recent earlier post,

a bit about Hunter's Rose.

To clarify,

Hunter's Rose is the second book in the

Troubles in the Wes series.

(The first book is Caleb's Destiny).

Preorder for this book will be available beginning in July!!

Don't miss out on this opportunity

to read Hunter's Rose at a discounted price!

Answer this question for an opportunity

to win a free Kindle copy!

Question:

Rosita's past engagement with Carlos De Leon

went sour before she fled Mexico.

Now married to Hunter Carson,

she's still being followed by Carlos. 

Does he still love her?

Or is there something more sinister

he wants from her?

Hunter's Rose!

Serious Wednesday: A Chance to Win My Book and Many Others

 Here's an opportunity to win $500 or these forty-plus books!

Go here to sign up:  

https://promosimple.com/ps/1d71d/2022-summer-kick-off-multi-author

Serious Wednesday: More Opportunities to Buy a Book for $.99!!

Readers!

Here's another opportunity for you to

obtain a book for a great price!

Only $.99 Kindle price

Catch Me If You Can

(Book One in the Nursery Rhyme series)

is just $.99.

A touch of romance,

A hint of whimsy.

A cat with perceptive intelligence.

A woman who's determined to find the answer in spite of threats, scary situations, 

an unfriendly manager, and unwelcoming workers. 

Can she?

Check out the book here:

 Amazon

Reviewers have this to say about the book:

*  Lively characters. Snappy dialogue.
Fantastic work.

*  The author has given us well-developed characters, plenty of plot twists and turns and has given me a whole new look at the childhood ditty about the Gingerbread Man. There is a mystery that must be solved, a business to save and a perpetrator to be found. So just sit back, enjoy the ride and try to figure out who does not want to be caught!

*  Wow!! This story is definitely the author’s best to date. It is somewhat mysterious, a bit creepy but oh so intriguing.Did I figure out who the guilty person was? No but that just shows me how good she is at keeping readers in suspense til the very end.

Serious Wednesday: Here's Your Chance!

 Don't you just love a good sale?

Here's an opportunity to read the first book in the 

Spies of WWII series:

With Music in Their Hearts

(In this series, you'll find:

Three Spies

Three Redheads,

Three Love stories and suspense)

It's only $.99 for this first Kindle book, 

it can be YOURS!

Check it out here:

Amazon

What reviewers are saying about this book:

*  Ms. Brown’s historical novel is a delight.

*  I opened to chapter one in my Kindle and heard the music coming from the piano at the boarding house. I felt a part of the intrigue and saw the characters as they interacted with one another. Carole Brown’s World War II spy novel With the Music in Their Hearts is a fascinating read. The realistic dialogue, setting and characters' dress drew me into this 1940’s mystery.

*  I love WWII era stories and was eager to read With Music in Their Hearts. Carole Brown did a great job of capturing the essence of the era. The colorful cast of characters entertained me, the story engaged me, and the mystery kept me guessing until the very end!

Book two is:  A Flute in the Willows

Book three is:  Sing Until You Die

Happy Reading! 

Serious Wednesday: Include Christmas in Your Next Novel

Whether you love or hate Christmas, for writers, it's an opportunity to share some joy, happiness and
perhaps write with a different perspective than where your usual writings take you. Here are some very good reasons to write with a Christmas theme or background or even as part of your plot: 

1.  It helps to increase your reader audience. Readers love Christmas-themed books. Christmas books look great on store shelves and attract attention. By writing a Christmas-themed book, you will possibly draw new readers who will follow you through the rest of the year, reading your other books. 

2.  There's a huge demand for holiday-themed books. The colorful festive books with their shiny snowflakes and fancy script titles are hard to miss. They line bookshelves over the holidays and scream for attention. There is a big demand for these types of books, and if you're trying to make a living at writing, then Christmas is the perfect time to release a holiday book. Shopkeepers are looking for these type of books to sell that fly off the shelves. Why not capitalize on this opportunity? 

3.  If you approach it right, writing a Christmas-themed book can put you in a holiday mood. Admit it, from Thanksgiving on, life is busy and can be stressful, but having a Christmas book release kind of gives you a sense of happiness and peace. Just knowing that you've fulfilled and shared some joy to readers should, in return, fill you with a sense of completion. 

There are a lot of good reasons to write a Christmas book, and these just touch the surface of the why. I would encourage you to give it a thought. You might just come up with the perfect plot! 

Serious Wednesday: Let's Welcome Linda Weaver Clarke!

Welcome, Linda! It's truly a delight to have you joining us again with your newest historical romance. 

Readers, please read on to learn about this book and to find out where you can purchase the book! 

Women of Courage

Amidst Trials, is there a Light at the end of the Tunnel?

All of us have challenges in our lives and we feel so alone. We sometimes wonder if we are the only ones who are experiencing difficulties. Have you ever felt that each trial you have endured was so difficult that you wondered where the “light at the end of the tunnel” was? Many times we try to solve our own problems and don’t bother talking to anyone or asking for help.

“No matter our circumstances, no matter our challenges or trials, there is something in each day to embrace and cherish. There is something in each day that can bring gratitude and joy if only we will see and appreciate it.” ~ Dieter F. Uchtdorf

This was Hannah’s attitude as she tried to search for the “light at the end of the tunnel.” How many times do we search for that light, wondering where it is and hoping that the trials in life will soon end? Is God watching over us? Is He there when we need some comfort? In our darkest moment, does Jesus Christ know how we feel? I believe He does.

Set in 1844, The Light at the End of the Tunnel is a historical romance. Book Reviewer and Author Gail Pallotta wrote: “This romance wrapped around my heart as it took me into the struggles of Hannah, such a brave woman. The characters come to life on the page as Thomas falls for Hannah. However, Hannah is caught up in her day-to-day trials, and with her independent streak, she only thinks of making a life for herself and her daughter. Can Thomas get her attention and change her mind?”

After coming to America and enduring several challenges and trials, Hannah realizes she can make something of her life by opening a hot chocolate shop. She soon finds that starting her own business isn’t as easy as she thought.

When Thomas finds out that Hannah's shop is struggling, he comes to the rescue with a clever plan. Will she agree to such an unconventional idea? Can he convince her to find room in her heart for one more person?

“I enjoyed this sweet historical romance very much.  This story shows the western spirit of adventure in a young widow who has faced many hardships to come to this point.  This is a Christian book and a very engaging and enjoyable read. You will enjoy this heartwarming story of a strong woman forging a new life.” Sunnie Reviews

To buy this book or eBook on Amazon, visit 

https://www.amazon.com/Light-end-Tunnel-Women-Courage/dp/B09JJ97612.

Join Linda at these social media sites: 

Linda Weaver Clarke’s Author Blog: https://lindaweaverclarke.wordpress.com

Linda’s Audiobook Blog: https://familyfriendlyaudiobooks.wordpress.com

Linda’s Cozy Mystery Blog: https://cozymysteryseJries.wordpress.com

Linda’s Historical Romance Blog: https://historicalromances.wordpress.com

Serious Wednesday: Introducing: Catch Me If You Can

 Catch Me If You Can

Book ONE of 

The Nursery Rhyme series

The big cat sat on the oversized rock, ears pointed toward the sky, every muscle taut, every sense at the ready.

“S-s-shut up and f-f-forget it. You've s-seen nothing and know nothing. I won't warn you again. G-g-got it?”

The cat's head swiveled, his ears twitching as if catching the hint of threat in the whisper. A soft hiss slid from his open mouth and reinforced the overtone of evil pressing in upon the scene. Within hours, lies and dark secrets are slithering all over the campground.

Coaxed into finding the animal killer at Jamieson's Outfitters, Tara Layne, with her sidekick, Boet, is welcomed by a threatening whisper and the unfriendly eyes of a rugged and devastatingly handsome manager. Wesley Clarke, both interesting and frustrating, holds an attraction for Tara that is both primitive and exasperating.

Intermingled with her search, Tara deals with her own heartbreaking buried secrets. When a strange old Native American probes into the recesses of her heart, he encourages her to face her bitter feelings.

As Tara closes in on her search, she finds herself—and Boet—the target of someone who's determined to outrun and outsmart her. Someone determined not to get caught.

His theme:

Fun as fast as you can, you can't catch me.

The question:

Can Tara run fast enough to catch this real live Gingerbread boy

before he decides to get rid of her and Boet?

Buy the book here:

amzn.to/2CIEhrC

Rambling Friday: The Golden Touch has released! $.99 Today!

 

Welcome to Appleton, West Virginia, 

the small town where everyone knows everyone,

and everyone knows everyone's business,

or thinks they do. 

The 5th Book in the Appleton, West Virginia Romantic Mystery series

The Golden Touch BLURB:

Not again.

Ryle Sadler stared down at the financial statement lying on his desk. His investment firm had just sent him another record of overwhelming success. Time to sell his share in this stock.

Ryle came from the poor side of the tracks, but that had no bearing on his success in life—which he kept hidden from everyone, especially those in Appleton, West Virginia. But when he buys the local, rundown bed and breakfast, mysterious revelations from beneath the site are suddenly threatening to ruin his good standing with the citizens.

Then along comes Jazzi Sanderson. Jazzi has a reputation of being wild, but Ryle sees more than is on the top layer of this woman. Beneath that tough, wild streak lurks a woman who wants to be loved by the right person, a woman who is tender-hearted and who is just finding out that God is real.

Is Ryle and Jazzi's worlds too far apart or can their differences help them solve the mystery that lies beneath Ryle's bed and breakfast? Will the evil person behind it all be able to silence them, or can Ryle's golden touch prevail in this too?

Purchase Link:

Amazon

Serious Wednesday: Do You Enjoy MYSTERIES?

 Who Has Read One of the

Appleton, West Virginia Romantic Mystery books?

* Sabotaged Christmas 

* Knight in Shining Apron

* Undiscovered Treasures

* Toby's Troubles

AND now...

The Golden Touch

Want to know more about my books?

Join me at:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/183457429657732

* Book Cover Reveal

* Want to win a copy of The Golden Touch?

* Want to get the updated news about what's happening this month?

Use this link:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/183457429657732

STAY TUNED!

Serious Wednesday: Clues

There are clues, then there are clues. 

We're talking clues today for the mystery writer. 

Did you know there are different types of clues? 

Here's some of them:

• Physical clues. These can range from fingerprints to DNA evidence. This is a scientific process. Think Sherlock Holmes or forensic or pathologists.

• Verbal clues. What is said or not said. What would only the suspect say or not say, have known? Decoding verbal clues is a psychological/sociological process similar to how Miss Marple, Poirot, or private detectives would use it.

• Thematic clues. Pointers from the experience of reading, such as someone who dresses all in black (the villain, of course), a stormy night that signals danger, a butler who is either invisible (always unnoticed), guilty or innocent (who knows??)--all simply because he's the butler. 

While the first two types of clues will influence the detective, all three will affect the reader's experience of the story.

Clues enlighten readers and clues confuse them.

Hopefully more later!

Serious Wednesday: The Launch is Over!

 It's been a hectic few weeks, or should I say months, preparing for the release of my newest novel: 

Sing Until You Die, Book 3 of The Spies of WWII series. 

As I read and enjoyed the responses from the attendees at the Book Party last night, I appreciated those who attended, those who support and love my books, appreciated their enthusiasm and their love of reading. 

Authors may pen their thoughts, their ideas and creations, but without readers? 

So thank you, readers and lovers of fiction books! You are worth your weight in gold, and I, for one appreciate your patronage and support! 

God bless! 

Rambling Friday: Sharing Today

I thought I'd share a bit about my latest novel:

Caleb's Destiny

https://www.amazon.com/Calebs-Destiny-Troubles-West-Book-ebook/dp/B0892W7LSP/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Caleb%27s+Destiny+by+Carole+Brown&qid=1598588433&s=books&sr=1-1

Blurb:

Mr. Michael, Destiny Rose McCulloch, and Hunter have a mysterious history. Why were three fathers, all business partners, murdered under suspicious circumstances while on their quest to find gold? 

Hunter, who is Mr. Michael's ranch manager, is determined to find the answers and protect the precocious young lady who he suspects holds a key answer to his questions. 

Mr. Michael wants only to be left alone to attend to his property, but what can he do when Destiny refuses to leave and captures the heart of everyone of his employees? 

Destiny almost forgets her quest when she falls in love with Mr. Michael's ranch and all the people there. And then Mr. Michael is much too alluring to ignore. The preacher man back east where she took her schooling tried to claim her heart, but the longer she stays the less she can remember him. She only came west to find a little boy she knew years ago. A little boy all grown up by now...unless, of course, he's dead.

Tell me, do you or anyone you know enjoy westerns, whether it's books, dramas or whatever?

Happy Reading!

Serious Wednesdays: Writing the Suspense Novel

Lots of people want to write a book; many even think there's nothing to it (HA!)

Let's talk today about suspense books and some of the things you need to develop to create a well-written suspense novel.

1. A strong hook that pulls the reader into your story; that demands he/she keep reading. 
2. Active reader involvement in piecing together information. The reader will feel he/she is in the middle of the story, a part of it.
3. Red herrings create diversions that keep the reader reading. The ending would be a dull mess if everyone could figure out what was going to happen in the first chapter
4. Suspenseful dialogue is necessary to keep the tension and interest high.
5. Effective, descriptive mood and language. This also allows the reader to be an interested party in what's happening. It makes for a sound book that creates what it's intended to do.
6. Well-structured chapters balance out the book. No one thing dominates the story, but each chapter is written so as to give the right "feel."
7. A satisfying conclusion is a vital part of a great suspense novel. Without it, the reader will close the book dissatisfied and likely to avoid the author's other books. 

That's a start. More later.

Happy writing!

Serious Wednesday: The Craziness of Writing

On Passionate Writing

It is a writer's greatest pleasure

to hear that someone

was kept up until the unholy hours 

of the morn

reading

one of his books.

--B. Sanderson

Writing is the strangest

and most interesting,

besides the most misunderstood,

craziest and hardest

most frustrating--

yet satisfying talent--

or is it a curse?

career?

hobby?

job?

                                                                          purpose?

A writer will certainly dwell in stages of 

despair

discouragement

hopelessness

yet writing affords deep . . .

satisfaction and pleasure,

determination

happiness and joy 

by one act of a reader, in reading.

To the real writer, 

that is enough.

Blessings!