Carmen DeSousa

Reviews are like tipping… You’ve already paid for the pedicure, hair style, meal, valet, book … whatever, but that extra something is what makes that person’s day. No tip or a one-star review could mean that the person did nothing right at all Ten percent or a two-star review could mean that the person did their job, but not very well Fifteen percent or a three-star review could mean that the person did their job, but didn’t offer anything special, didn’t go out of their way to stand out from other persons in the same profession Eighteen percent or a four-star review could mean that the person did everything they were supposed to, went out of their way to connect with you. Twenty percent is that coveted five-star review. This person did everything they were supposed to do and then some. You connected, you're coming back, you're bringing your friends! And also like tipping … just because you get a FREE or discounted meal, does...

Excerpt: Jordan had his arm latched around her waist. “It sort of reminds me of our first anniversary, the cruise to San Juan, only safer. I never felt comfortable there.” She laughed. “Exactly where do you feel comfortable?” She leaned back against his chest as they marveled at the street performers who painted and danced for money. He tightened his grip around her and nuzzled her neck, laughing too. “That’s true. When I have such a precious commodity that I’m in charge of protecting, how can I relax?” “You’re so silly, Jordan. I don’t think anyone is going to try to run off with me.” He kissed the top of her head. “They’ll be sorry if they try.” She sighed. She never had to worry when he was with her. Jordan would always protect her. She’d never fretted wherever they went, even Puerto Rico. She knew nobody would take him on. After reading the 600-plus reviews--just on Amazon; there are two hundred more on iTunes and B&N--there seems to be a common c...

As an author, I know I can't please everyone. I've given up on thinking that I can a long time ago. What I now concentrate on are the good things. Don't get me wrong, I love critical reviews, as long as the reviewer writes to inform and assist, not attack an author. I've taken to heart my critical reviews and make certain I don't make the same mistakes twice. I don’t use an editor, so sometimes things get overlooked. Heck, errors slip by in New York Times Bestsellers. Don’t believe me... Look at your copy of Twilight —I know you have a copy…LOL!—there’s a mistake in the first chapter. "The room was familiar; it had been belonged to me since I was born." This was an easy slip; she’d obviously been tossing between, “it had belonged to me” or “it had been mine”. BUT…it didn’t affect my review. I liked the story. Though juvenile in some respects, it was original and romantic. But, I also didn’t discount the book because I thought it was juveni...

I read a lot!  I know, I know, I’ve said that before…  I also read a lot of reviews, as I’m always curious what readers want, what they are looking for in a great book. But can I just say … the last review I read shocked me. The review was by an Indie author, reviewing another Indie author , none the less. She loved the book, said she couldn’t put it down, read the novel in one day, gave it four stars (which is great), but then went on to say how the book didn’t fall under the 'normal' structure, and if it had, she would have given it five stars. (Not that four stars isn't a great review ... it is! I'm just wondering why anyone would tell an author how to write their book.) I’ve been fighting this for years, stating that other than writing  well, why does there have to be a 'normal' structure?  Where is this rule written?  Should the same rule apply to building a house, writing a musical piece, creating a work of art? Of cours...

Excerpt:   “Shall we?” The question was rhetorical. Instead of waiting for an answer, Jordan twirled her out once then pulled her back into his arms as he lowered her gracefully into a dip, his strong arms secured around her. The mime jumped up and down, clapping his hands noiselessly then proceeded to make a mock display as if tapping on a glass, beckoning them to kiss. Jordan obliged, and a cheer emerged from the surrounding crowd Jaynee hadn’t noticed had gathered. Jordan stepped back and bowed, pulling her with him. “Jordan, you’re crazy.” She let out a laugh. “And a ham! Can we go?” she pleaded. Not accustomed to the spotlight, she could feel heat fill her cheeks. “If you insist, my lady.” He waved the crowd off and pulled her to his side again. Finally, they made their way to the room. Although it shouldn’t have taken her by surprise, she felt the wind rush out of her when he swung her up into his arms and carried her over the threshold of their suite. Sh...

Book Description: Gabriel Maguire thought he'd buried his past until the night he met Holly, only to lose the woman he cared about, again. Holly Jacobs has always put the cart before the horse. A prodigy who shot to stardom in textile design, she never knew a normal life—and there's nothing she longs for more than to be normal. Sometimes the only way to get where you need to be is to put the cart before the horse. My review for Cart Before the Horse .  As always, I just stick to why I liked. No spoilers—ever! I love when I feel a character's passion--and pain. Though it seems the title gives away the plot of the story, it really doesn’t. Bernadette still managed to reveal surprises throughout the entire novel. The characters were likeable, even when I felt like yelling at them, as I usually do when I want them to get their act together. Always a good sign when an author has me fussing at her protagonists. There were several powerful and emotional ...