I carry a heavy heart today. I moved from Southern California to Texas in February of this year. In the past two days, I've awakened to horrifying events that have brought terror in the hearts of my friends in my old community.

First the shooting at the Borderline Bar and Grill. Many of my friends have been personally touched. Then, if that wasn't bad enough, the horrendous fires in both Northern and Southern California that have forced many of my friends to flee for their lives, while others wait, stressed but prepared to evacuate. Beloved horses and pets are foremost in their minds, in addition to all their loved ones. 

Happily, so far, many have already safely evacuated and have taken refuge in hotels, victim centers, and with friends who have opened their homes. Their animals have been taken to safety as well. 

I feel so helpless not being able to be there to open my home to as many as possible. All I can do is keep them in my thoughts and pray that everyone in danger be kept safe. I am grateful to those who have marked themselves "safe" on Facebook so that those of us who can do nothing but wait and pray will know they have made it out or are not in danger.

In a world filled with contention, anger, and unhappiness, let's remember what is truly important - our love for each other. All I can do is repost this story by Peter DaSilva, a person who cared more about helping another than he did himself. 

​Peter DaSilva's Story. 
 
God Bless Peter DaSilva and the three law enforcement officers from Redding CA. 

It is in times like this that we can find the very best in all of us.

Til Next Time,
​Carol

Wow! An experience I had on Facebook this morning inspired me to write about civility today.

Someone put up a graph about the electoral college. Folks started commenting about the pros and cons of voting via electoral vs. popular vote. I responded  when someone posted a comment about how people who live in the middle of the country and outside of cities are uneducated and ignorant. You see, I moved from Los Angeles to a rural area of Texas. I am neither uneducated or ignorant (have a Master's Degree, was a teacher and publisher, and now a novelist). So, I took issue mainly because I interact on a daily basis with educated, highly-intelligent people who also live in Central Texas. I work with brilliant people who are also novelists and live in such places as the Ozarks and other middle America areas.

The person on Facebook responded in such a rude manner that I was taken back. When I commented that I thought we just needed to agree to disagree (not my words but a summary of what I indicated), I was pretty much called a coward for not continuing the discussion. His incivility was rude and unacceptable.

Now, I don't normally ever get involved in politics on social media. My bad. Won't do it again. My purpose in responding to him was to challenge  his comment that all people living outside of cities are illiterate hog farmers.  

This country has become so divided, and the incivility that I find on social media, in politics, in the media, and elsewhere is downright frightening. So many people appear to be filled with anger, and that I find sad. 

One of the reasons my novels are filled with examples of unconditional love is because I want people to care about each other, respect each other, and accept each other for who they are. Yes, of course we can disagree. Yes of course we must express our concerns, opinions, and ideas, but when we are slammed for it, criticized and shamed for it, I say enough.

If you are filled with anxiety and anger, take a deep breath. Being nasty to someone isn't going to change their mind. Certainly calling them names or belittling them isn't going to change their opinion. Logical conversation, some compassion for what others think and feel, and acceptance of the rights of others to have their beliefs is a better way to go. I'm not saying anyone should stick their head in the sand and not stand up for what they believe, but certainly it should be done with respect for those who are listening.

In the meantime, if you want to read about loyalty and unconditional love, HERE are some samples of books that demonstrate how even a dog can show us the way... even with characters who might not be so lovable. 

Til Next Time,
​Carol

I had what I like to call "a light-bulb moment" in my Dressage lesson with my trainer, Deirdre, today. Both she, and my trainer before her, have encouraged me to RELAX while I'm riding. Rather than gripping with my legs and slightly leaning forward in the canter, they have both been telling me to let go of "the things I can do without." 

"Let your legs hang around the horse. Let go. Relax. Sit in the back of the saddle and move your seat with Okido." Sounds easy. Right? Wrong! Our tendency in riding  and in life is to "hold on." But, the way Deirdre said it today made me understand completely. So, I let go. When I did, my horse gave me the most wonderful, collected canter. It felt like a dream come true, because, it was.

How does this apply to you? I'm sure you are asking. You'd be surprised. This is a rough period of time for our country. Anxiety, political divisiveness, disagreement, angst, dissatisfaction... all those nasty words and feelings swirl around us, on top of everyday life and the challenges that we all face just living day-to-day and dealing with responsibilities and relationships. 

What we all need to learn to do is relax and let go of the things we can do without... the stress, anxiety, disagreement, angst, dissatisfaction. Tears for Fears, in their song Shout, say it best: 

​Shout
Shout
Let it all out
These are the things I can do without
Come on
I'm talking to you
Come on

I understand that sounds simple. But it isn't. Just like riding a horse that weighs about a thousand more pounds than I do isn't simple... at all. It's one of the very most difficult things to accomplish. The key is to let go of all those things you can do without. 

Try it. Come on.


Til Next Time,
​Carol

I posted the above statement on my personal Facebook page a while back, and people began to send me all kinds of encouraging messages. It was obvious they thought I was having problems. In truth, I was simply thinking about how, when those we love need us, most of us don't know what we can do to help.

In the meantime, a dear friend of mine lost a beloved horse and a close family member just needed me as a sounding board. It took me a few days to absorb it all. When I looked back, I realized that when the people we love need us, all we have to do is be present for them.

A nurturing ear, a strong shoulder, empathy, and just being with them when they need us is what they really need. 

I think that's why my dog and horse are so important to me. There are just times when my dog sits next to me, is with me, that I feel his unconditional love. Or, when I need some reassurance, I walk into my horse Okido's stall and wrap my arms around his neck. He stands very still and is just present with me. His quiet strength and gentle kindness are all I need to feel better.

I wanted to share this with you, because I am sure you are sometimes faced with trying to help someone you love. It isn't always easy to know what to do. But, just know if you are present for them that is all they really need. 

Til Next Time,
Carol 

My publisher just completed a cover contest for Moon Blood Book 3. The votes are in! It was a close one, but this one had the most 5-Star votes. 

For those of you who voted, thanks so much for helping me! I loved all the covers my publisher put out to a vote, but this one is special because it was selected by my readers.

The cover reveals Moon's reaction to the mysterious redhead who attracts Kane and inflames Zandra. The title font is on brand, and everything about this cover suits the story. And, you'll see for yourselves shortly.

Even better, Troll River has placed my new book on Amazon Kindle for pre-order at just 99 cents! Take advantage of this before September when it will go up to full price.
Grab it today by clicking HERE!
And, be on the lookout for our next event, which will be the Read for Review for Moon Blood 3. It's coming soon... And, there will be prizes.

But, there's even more!: To celebrate the new cover, Snow Blood Book 1 will be FREE on Amazon from August 14-17 only in Kindle format for you.

Grab it by clicking HERE.

It's what started all my vampire mystery thriller books! If you haven't read it, get it FREE now. 

Thanks again so much for your support of my books and for helping me choose this beautiful cover.

Unconditionally yours,
Carol

As a writer, I’ve realized that many fellow authors wait for motivation or inspiration or their muse. But, I’ve found another method that works for me. I call it “finding my push.” I realized this listening to one of my horse trainer’s podcasts.

Rather than wait for inspiration, I push. How do I push? I sit down at the computer and start writing down my ideas. I find that “doing” is the push that I need to get started on the next novel and stay on it until it’s finished.

I put working on my book as an action item on my “to-do” list for each day. It is my intent to work on it daily, whether for two hours, half a day, or all day.

This can apply to anything in your life. I received a further example of how to push from my friend and fellow author, Maika Janat. We are just finishing up her book, Go. See. Do. I worked as her editor on her book, which reveals her “10 Life-Changing Quotes to Be Successful as a Young Professional.” Again, the beauty of Maika’s advice is that it isn’t just for young professionals but for anyone who wants to excel in life or business.

Maika went straight out of high school into an internship for a high-profile event production company in Germany. From there, she climbed the ladder and became the head of the company’s first U.S. office before she was thirty (30). She received awards at a young age for her management skills and business acumen. My point is that she used her philosophy of “Go. See. Do.” To succeed in both her life and career.

My horse trainer, Deirdre Sabo, is also another great example of excellence through action. In her early 30s, she’s already a bronze and silver medalist and a national champion in dressage. Her podcasts, horse and rider training methods, and physical fitness coaching are a great inspiration to her clients. She firmly believes in making it happen through action.

I equate both Maika and Deirdre’s action philosophy to finding my push. I can imagine and dream about my next storyline or characters, but until I sit down and make it happen, nothing does. As far as my equestrian training goes, it’s a “live-in-the-moment-and-make-it-happen-now” activity that can easily be applied to my life.

Making it in life is actively taking all the steps necessary to achieve your goals. It’s doing. It’s being focused and passionate about what you want.

So, why did I write about this topic today? Because I have so many friends and folks about whom I care who need to find their push. I think it’s important. And I wanted to send kudos to Deirdre Sabo and Maika Janat because they both have absolutely found their push.

​Till Next Time,
Carol 

I just completed reading this magnificent Regency Romance by my fellow author, Patricia A. Knight. Full disclosure: she is a valued and trusted friend. But let me say this about that. If I didn't love this book, I wouldn't recommend it. 

Why do I love it? First of all, PAK has a wonderful way with words. To say that she can entertain a reader with her use of words is an understatement.

Not just that, she has adapted to the period dialogue, manners, and mannerisms seamlessly. Her research on the styles and social mores of the period is impeccable. 

And, the storyline. Oh, my. She creates tension and keeps it going throughout so that you never want to put it down. When she first asked me to read it, my workload held me back. She graciously told me to read it whenever I could. Well, I glanced at the first few pages and got hooked. I just threw everything else out the window until I finished it. Or, at least, almost.

I used to read Regency Romances as a younger woman but got away from them when work and life got in the way. Then, when I started writing in the paranormal genre, I stuck to those types of stories. But last year, I was at a Writers' Conference with PAK, and she asked me to read her first foray into Regency entitled, A Husband for Hire. Same thing. I read the first few pages and boom! Hooked line and sinker! 

​​So, whenever PAK writes a Regency Romance, I'll be on it like flies on rice. 

If you love romance of any kind, I highly recommend that you give both A Husband for Hire and A Destitute Duke a try. She is making them into a series, and I can't wait for the next one. A Destitute Duke isn't quite out yet, so I recommend you go and grab A Husband for Hire so you'll already know some of the characters, even though the books are easily standalones.

Bravo, Patricia, Bravo!

Until Next Time,
​Carol 

So sorry! I have been blog-absent. Just so much going on right now. 

We launched Moon Blood 2 on May 1st. Then I finished a somewhat polished draft of Moon Blood 3 and sent it off to the publisher. Then, in my excitement to continue the series, I perfected the outline for Moon Blood 4. 

In-between, I rode in several horse show competition with my beloved Okido and helped another author complete her great book. Whew! 

Then, my publisher and I are going to be doing what's called a "revitalization promotion" for Snow Blood Season 1. It's a lot, I mean, a lot of work, but I think it will be worth it. In addition for prepping for it, my publisher has re-produced Snow Blood 1's trailer. It's much more consistent with the brand, and I hope you like it. Please let me know what you think. 

Writers sometimes feel like they live in a vacuum. So, it really helps if readers and friends offer comments, encouragement, and support. Please let me know your thoughts on this new trailer. Don't hesitate to reach out and say hi, tell me what you've been up to, and any great plans for the summer.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Til Next Time,
Carol
​

I am so excited! My publisher just released the new trailer for Moon Blood Book 2. 

​Please check it out and tell me what you think. 

Thanks, 
​Carol

I don't know about you, but I always appreciate reading snippets or excerpts from novels to get the feel of the writing style and the storyline. So, today I decided to provide a taste of Moon Blood, Book 2. Let me know what you think, won't you?

Here goes:
I sniffed the ground as Kane inhaled the air to follow the pack’s scent. Using our vampire speed, we were upon them in mere minutes. Twenty werewolves, sworn vampire enemies, surrounded them.

Thor, Chase, Gaspar, Fergus, and Joker stood, hind quarters together, circling and growling, as their attackers hovered around them.

Kane leaped over several of the predators and landed in the circle next to Thor. I followed.

“For what reason do you threaten these innocent wolves on private property?” He crouched low as he spoke.

I snarled and glared, circling my wolf uncles, who had all given up their kindred status along with their master Snow Blood and Nova, my parents.

The largest of the werewolves stepped closer and matched my master’s height. He shook his black coat, and his yellow eyes glowed. His words filled my thoughts. I am Alemain, leader of this pack. Why are you here? Where is the master vampire, Brogio? I call upon him to fight me to the death!

Kane straightened and laughed. He spoke aloud so that our wolf family could follow along. “Well, Alemain, behind the times, aren’t you?”

The werewolf edged another step. What do you mean, bloodsucker?

Kane’s brown eyes turned a threatening red as he spoke. “Brogio and his family have been granted their humanness by God, the Father.”

Alemain’s yellow eyes widened. You lie, scum of the earth.

I stepped to Kane’s side and showed my fangs. Saliva dripped from my jowls. I felt my body beginning to transform into my inner demon. I enlarged. My shaggy white hair turned black and evil. My claws and fangs extended.

“Mess with him or his family, and you will die.” Kane’s face contorted and widened. His fangs dropped, and his red eyes glowed at Alemain. “Neither my kindred wolf nor I will let harm come to them. They are no longer of concern to you. I am the first blood son and the oldest living vampire and sire to the kindred line.”

Then, YOU will die. Alemain leaped at Kane, who with his lightning-fast speed easily avoided him.

His attacker swirled, and his werewolf pack moved closer. I ran around the perimeter of their circle, reached out, and bit the front leg of one of them. While I hadn’t inherited Snow Blood’s daylight ability, I did get his toxic bite that rendered anyone I attacked dead in seconds. The werewolf began to shake, white foam pouring from his open mouth, and he collapsed, dead before he hit the ground.

The rest of the pack backed away as I ran the circle snarling. None of them were willing to chance my bite after my demonstration and my terrifying demeanor.

I turned just in time to see the pack leader take a swipe with his claws, barely missing Kane’s face. Kane flipped backward and taunted his opponent. “What’s the matter, Alemain? Can’t keep up?”

The pack leader leaped at Kane again, and this time, Kane stepped aside and delivered a crushing blow to the back of Alemain’s head. Stunned, the werewolf staggered but swirled and went for Kane’s left arm.

Kane leaped over him and left long, jagged claw marks from Alemain’s stomach to his shoulder. The werewolf roared in pain.

Kane, who had the ability to transform into any creature, grew to ten feet and morphed into the largest grizzly bear I could imagine. One large clawed paw swiped Alemain’s head, taking off half of it. The leader fell in the new-fallen Nova Scotia snow. Kane the bear then picked up the werewolf’s body and tore it in half, throwing each half into the surrounding trees. Our wolves’ mates quickly sprang from their hiding places and tore the rest of the body to pieces.

The bear and I both turned and crouched at the remaining werewolf pack. I leaped forward and snarled, and they scattered and ran.

I let go of my anger and transformed back into my own body as I watched the bear become my master. His body shrank to his normal six-foot-five. His claws and fangs receded, and his face slowly brought forth his strong jaw and nose and handsome visage. When he had become the bear, his clothes had been torn to shreds. He stood naked, his muscular body reflected in the moonlight.

He shot a glance at me. You could have been killed, Moon. Werewolf venom is poison to us. What were you thinking running so close to them?

Even though I felt grateful he communicated telepathically and didn’t chastise me in front of my wolf uncles, I snapped back, If I hadn’t, you would have been overrun by all of them. I sat back on my haunches and licked a paw.

He ran a hand through his long, dark-brown hair and sighed. You’re right. I need to realize you can take care of yourself.

Before I could respond, Joker smashed into my side and knocked me to the ground. His yapping at me and licking my face brought the rest of the pack over to lick and roll me around.

Thor jumped up and washed Kane’s face.

They are expressing their thanks. Kane smiled as he spoke.

The pack left me on the ground and knocked Kane down, giving his face and arms a thorough washing.

Kane laughed out loud and waved his arms to rub a head, a leg, or whatever he could grab.

Even though they are no longer kindred and can’t communicate with us telepathically, Kane can read all their thoughts, as well as my parents’. I have yet to develop that ability thoroughly, only getting glimpses of thoughts.

I stood up and waited for him to rise from the ground. He continued to give each of the wolves a thorough petting.

I looked at him pointedly. Perhaps we should stick around for a while to protect our family?

He stroked his chin as he always did when he contemplated. We must wait for James, anyway. But, when he arrives, if it’s the actual vampire leader of our line they want, we should lead them away from here. What better place than Italy? Besides, I don’t know how long it will be before the police connect me to the explosion and deaths in Los Angeles and track me here.

I snorted the snow out of my nose. I thought that’s why we sprinted here so that we didn’t leave a trail for the authorities. In an escape from predators who wished to use us for evil, Kane had destroyed them in an explosion. One of them had been a famous rocket company’s CEO.

Yes, but why take a chance? He turned to go and noticed the body of the werewolf I had killed.

The dead werewolf had transformed into his human form. Kane whirled around to Thor. “Can you and your pack ensure that this body is unidentifiable?”

With a nod of his head, Thor and the rest of the pack and their mates tore into the body.

Come on, let’s go back to the house.
​
I followed as the sounds of gnashing teeth, growling, and the ripping of flesh littered the air with utter decimation.

That's it for now! Stay tuned for another one later. But, want to read more inside the book? go to Amazon here.

​Til Next Time,
​Carol