M.E. Carter's Blog
July 26, 2024
It Ends With Us: Is It Worth It?
The final chapter of Book Bonanza ended with a huge surprise: all attendees, volunteers, authors, vendors, etc were invited to a SURPRISE early screening of It Ends With Us.
For those of you who have been living under a rock (or just do a better job at managing your social media time than I do), the movie stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, and is adapted from the best selling novel by Colleen Hoover.
(I have to stop to humble brag for a second. I knew about the surprise for several weeks before it was announced. Do you know how hard of a secret it was to keep???? I'm so proud I didn't blow it.)
Because of the nature of the book, there is a lot of division about it on social media. Some people say it is one of the best books they've ever read. Some say it has saved their lives. Still others claim the book romanticizes abuse.
In my humble opinion, the people who claim that either haven't read the book or completely missed the point of it. For context, the story is loosely inspired by Colleen Hoover's mother's story, and the decision she made to leave her husband when her girls were little.
While that is public knowledge, there still is a lot of curiosity about the movie and if it, in fact, romanticizes abuse.
Now that I have seen an advanced screening, I can confirm that this claim is NOT TRUE.
It Ends With Us is a realistic portrayal of how someone ends up in a relationship riddled with domestic violence. It shows why it's so hard to leave. And it gives an understanding that makes it so much easier to help our loved ones.
There is no doubt in my mind that this movie is going to save lives on a larger scale than the book did. It's also going to save families. It is going to do so much good for this world and I am proud I got to experience it early.
Blake Lively took so much care with her portrayal of Lily. She is absolute perfection. And Jenny Slate, while not who I envisioned for Alyssa, she is so, so much better than my imagination ever was.
I can't decide for you if you should see this movie. For some, it will undoubtedly be very triggering. But for those of you who don't get triggered easily, I say go. Take your friends. Take your family.
You don't have to like the book. You don't even have to like Colleen Hoover. But let this movie do its work. Let it save our friends. There is no more important goal than that.
~
Looking For Some Fun Summer Books?
The Cipher Office series is full of OG SmartyPants Romance books and are just what you're looking for! We are still super proud of them. They are fun, they are funny, they are endearing. If you haven't read them, don't miss out!
Snag Them Here! https://smartypantsromance.com/worlds...
~
WE HAVE A NEW WINNER!
ge***r@hotmail.com
CONGRATULATIONS!!
Please DM me so you can claim your prize!
Remember, we have a new winner every month so don't forget to check if you're it!
~
What I'm currently reading...
Whether you care for Brittney Griner or not, her books is still a fascinating read about horrors of the Russian "justice" system, and the incredible physical and mental strength it takes to survive.
It's also a good reminder to pack early and carefully before traveling outside your home country. A small mistake can leave a lifetime of scars.
Get it here --> https://amzn.to/3Yl5JoR
~
Now Providing...
Whether you need developmental editing, an intense and detailed beta read, or to hash out where your writer's block is, I got you covered!
Now booking into September so reach out soon!
Contact Me Here --> https://www.authormecarter.com/contact
~
Anyone else sick of this heat and ready for winter? No? Just me?
💜M.E. Carter
For those of you who have been living under a rock (or just do a better job at managing your social media time than I do), the movie stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, and is adapted from the best selling novel by Colleen Hoover.
(I have to stop to humble brag for a second. I knew about the surprise for several weeks before it was announced. Do you know how hard of a secret it was to keep???? I'm so proud I didn't blow it.)
Because of the nature of the book, there is a lot of division about it on social media. Some people say it is one of the best books they've ever read. Some say it has saved their lives. Still others claim the book romanticizes abuse.
In my humble opinion, the people who claim that either haven't read the book or completely missed the point of it. For context, the story is loosely inspired by Colleen Hoover's mother's story, and the decision she made to leave her husband when her girls were little.
While that is public knowledge, there still is a lot of curiosity about the movie and if it, in fact, romanticizes abuse.
Now that I have seen an advanced screening, I can confirm that this claim is NOT TRUE.
It Ends With Us is a realistic portrayal of how someone ends up in a relationship riddled with domestic violence. It shows why it's so hard to leave. And it gives an understanding that makes it so much easier to help our loved ones.
There is no doubt in my mind that this movie is going to save lives on a larger scale than the book did. It's also going to save families. It is going to do so much good for this world and I am proud I got to experience it early.
Blake Lively took so much care with her portrayal of Lily. She is absolute perfection. And Jenny Slate, while not who I envisioned for Alyssa, she is so, so much better than my imagination ever was.
I can't decide for you if you should see this movie. For some, it will undoubtedly be very triggering. But for those of you who don't get triggered easily, I say go. Take your friends. Take your family.
You don't have to like the book. You don't even have to like Colleen Hoover. But let this movie do its work. Let it save our friends. There is no more important goal than that.
~
Looking For Some Fun Summer Books?
The Cipher Office series is full of OG SmartyPants Romance books and are just what you're looking for! We are still super proud of them. They are fun, they are funny, they are endearing. If you haven't read them, don't miss out!
Snag Them Here! https://smartypantsromance.com/worlds...
~
WE HAVE A NEW WINNER!
ge***r@hotmail.com
CONGRATULATIONS!!
Please DM me so you can claim your prize!
Remember, we have a new winner every month so don't forget to check if you're it!
~
What I'm currently reading...
Whether you care for Brittney Griner or not, her books is still a fascinating read about horrors of the Russian "justice" system, and the incredible physical and mental strength it takes to survive.
It's also a good reminder to pack early and carefully before traveling outside your home country. A small mistake can leave a lifetime of scars.
Get it here --> https://amzn.to/3Yl5JoR
~
Now Providing...
Whether you need developmental editing, an intense and detailed beta read, or to hash out where your writer's block is, I got you covered!
Now booking into September so reach out soon!
Contact Me Here --> https://www.authormecarter.com/contact
~
Anyone else sick of this heat and ready for winter? No? Just me?
💜M.E. Carter
May 27, 2024
This School Year Has Been Interesting
Last year, around this time, Bug made a passing comment that he wished he could homeschool.
Being that it had never even occurred to me to try it, I wrote it off as an option. But I asked him what he thought homeschool meant. With a deep sigh, he gave me his answer.
"You."
It hit me that there was something about school that led him to need to feel the safety of my presence. And I started to notice little things. Like how he was getting in fights on the bus coming home because the noise was just too much for him. Like how certain kids had figured out it was super easy to frustrate him and if they poked the bear, he would get in trouble and they would get away with whatever bad behavior they were doing. Like how his GT class would meet once a week for an hour, IF the teacher was pulled off to do something else. Like how he cleared out his desk and came home with a two inch stack of coloring pages he had done while he waited for everyone else to finish with their schoolwork. Like how we was up at 6:15 every morning to stand at a bus stop braving all the elements. (5-degrees is COLD when you have a north wind.)
When I started putting it all together, the idea of homeschool wouldn't let go. So I researched, interviewed homeschool moms, went to conferences—all just to see if this could possibly be something that was beneficial to Bug and something that I could pull off while holding down two jobs.
I was terrified of screwing it up, but we went for it anyway. And as our school year is wrapping up, I've started crunching some numbers of how it went. Here's what I discovered we accomplished:
Approximately 412 hours of school time (as opposed to roughly 1260 in public school), which included:
Art, Music, Music Appreciation, and Art Appreciation
Over 40 science experiments conducted
All of 3rd grade Grammar completed (resulting in an A)
All of 3rd grade Math completed (resulting in an A)
8 fiction books read (Percy Jackson series, Fablehaven series)
5 audiobooks completed
14 field trips
18 structured play days (including a voting lesson, a nutrition lesson, a cooking lesson, etc)
Chess Club
Lego Robotics Club
Swim Lessons
A Book Club meeting
A road trip with Mimi and Papa to see the eclipse in totality
A Christmas musical
Additionally, I am able to hold him back a year. He's smart enough, but he's a late August birthday and his emotional maturity doesn't match his intellectual maturity. The school wouldn't give him that extra year because he's too darn smart. Good for him, but I'd rather him breeze through class than struggle because his emotions aren't as mature as everyone else's.
I'm sure there are things we accomplished that I'm missing, including the benefit of spending three days a week with his grandparents while I worked, but just writing it out blew me away. I had no idea we'd done so many fun, educational things in a third of the time it would have taken in a traditional setting. (That's not to say public school is bad. My high schooler would never stay home! She's too much of a social butterfly and does well in that setting. My SPED baby also needed extra things I would never have been able to accommodate because of my level of educational expertise.)
I guess I'm just sharing because it was kind of mind boggling. I'm proud of us. We balanced all our responsibilities and kept Bug on track, or even better than he would have done in a different setting.
We're going to try homeschool again next year. He'll be in what we are calling "3rd Grade Plus." In fact, I've told him we won't have a discussion about public school education again until middle school when they can test his skill level and place him in the right classes. But for now, I think we're good.
Who knew a little passing comment would change the course of his education, and our lives? And who knew we'd enjoy the changes? Kids are smarter than we give them credit for sometimes.
~
Spring Means A SUPER Sale!!!
There are some amazing author events coming up so why not jump into the world of authors, narrators, bloggers, and all the sexy muses early? You may even recognize some characters from signings you've attended before!
The Charitable Endeavors series is a set of "closed-door" romantic comedies that are perfect for your vacation, too. So snatch them up while they're on super sale!
https://www.authormecarter.com/charit...
~
WE HAVE A NEW WINNER!
Je*****.41@hotmail.com
CONGRATULATIONS!!
Please email me so you can claim your prize!
Remember, we have a new winner every month so don't forget to check if you're it!
Contact me here --> https://www.authormecarter.com/contact alt=
~
What I'm currently reading...
I freely admit, I kind of cheated on this one. I was part of the editing team as it was being written, which is how I got it before a cover was even designed. (Yes, I know what a lucky girl I am.)
This is why I can tell you with all confidence, that you need Forever Starts Tonight. It was just fantastic. But really, when does Karla Sorensen not put out a great book? (The correct answer is never.)
Do yourself a favor and just preorder it now so you don't forget. It is one of my Top Reads this year!
Preorder Here --> https://amzn.to/3R4rRiV
~
My Nerdy Little Book Friend Has a New Release!
When the one who got away moves in next door…
Clara Hill wants to be left alone...
Or at least that’s what she thought.
Now that her secret high school sweetheart is her next door neighbor, she’s not so sure anymore...
Get it here --> https://smartypantsromance.com/books/...
~
Schooooool's Out. For. Summer! Sing with me!!
💜M.E. Carter
Being that it had never even occurred to me to try it, I wrote it off as an option. But I asked him what he thought homeschool meant. With a deep sigh, he gave me his answer.
"You."
It hit me that there was something about school that led him to need to feel the safety of my presence. And I started to notice little things. Like how he was getting in fights on the bus coming home because the noise was just too much for him. Like how certain kids had figured out it was super easy to frustrate him and if they poked the bear, he would get in trouble and they would get away with whatever bad behavior they were doing. Like how his GT class would meet once a week for an hour, IF the teacher was pulled off to do something else. Like how he cleared out his desk and came home with a two inch stack of coloring pages he had done while he waited for everyone else to finish with their schoolwork. Like how we was up at 6:15 every morning to stand at a bus stop braving all the elements. (5-degrees is COLD when you have a north wind.)
When I started putting it all together, the idea of homeschool wouldn't let go. So I researched, interviewed homeschool moms, went to conferences—all just to see if this could possibly be something that was beneficial to Bug and something that I could pull off while holding down two jobs.
I was terrified of screwing it up, but we went for it anyway. And as our school year is wrapping up, I've started crunching some numbers of how it went. Here's what I discovered we accomplished:
Approximately 412 hours of school time (as opposed to roughly 1260 in public school), which included:
Art, Music, Music Appreciation, and Art Appreciation
Over 40 science experiments conducted
All of 3rd grade Grammar completed (resulting in an A)
All of 3rd grade Math completed (resulting in an A)
8 fiction books read (Percy Jackson series, Fablehaven series)
5 audiobooks completed
14 field trips
18 structured play days (including a voting lesson, a nutrition lesson, a cooking lesson, etc)
Chess Club
Lego Robotics Club
Swim Lessons
A Book Club meeting
A road trip with Mimi and Papa to see the eclipse in totality
A Christmas musical
Additionally, I am able to hold him back a year. He's smart enough, but he's a late August birthday and his emotional maturity doesn't match his intellectual maturity. The school wouldn't give him that extra year because he's too darn smart. Good for him, but I'd rather him breeze through class than struggle because his emotions aren't as mature as everyone else's.
I'm sure there are things we accomplished that I'm missing, including the benefit of spending three days a week with his grandparents while I worked, but just writing it out blew me away. I had no idea we'd done so many fun, educational things in a third of the time it would have taken in a traditional setting. (That's not to say public school is bad. My high schooler would never stay home! She's too much of a social butterfly and does well in that setting. My SPED baby also needed extra things I would never have been able to accommodate because of my level of educational expertise.)
I guess I'm just sharing because it was kind of mind boggling. I'm proud of us. We balanced all our responsibilities and kept Bug on track, or even better than he would have done in a different setting.
We're going to try homeschool again next year. He'll be in what we are calling "3rd Grade Plus." In fact, I've told him we won't have a discussion about public school education again until middle school when they can test his skill level and place him in the right classes. But for now, I think we're good.
Who knew a little passing comment would change the course of his education, and our lives? And who knew we'd enjoy the changes? Kids are smarter than we give them credit for sometimes.
~
Spring Means A SUPER Sale!!!
There are some amazing author events coming up so why not jump into the world of authors, narrators, bloggers, and all the sexy muses early? You may even recognize some characters from signings you've attended before!
The Charitable Endeavors series is a set of "closed-door" romantic comedies that are perfect for your vacation, too. So snatch them up while they're on super sale!
https://www.authormecarter.com/charit...
~
WE HAVE A NEW WINNER!
Je*****.41@hotmail.com
CONGRATULATIONS!!
Please email me so you can claim your prize!
Remember, we have a new winner every month so don't forget to check if you're it!
Contact me here --> https://www.authormecarter.com/contact alt=
~
What I'm currently reading...
I freely admit, I kind of cheated on this one. I was part of the editing team as it was being written, which is how I got it before a cover was even designed. (Yes, I know what a lucky girl I am.)
This is why I can tell you with all confidence, that you need Forever Starts Tonight. It was just fantastic. But really, when does Karla Sorensen not put out a great book? (The correct answer is never.)
Do yourself a favor and just preorder it now so you don't forget. It is one of my Top Reads this year!
Preorder Here --> https://amzn.to/3R4rRiV
~
My Nerdy Little Book Friend Has a New Release!
When the one who got away moves in next door…
Clara Hill wants to be left alone...
Or at least that’s what she thought.
Now that her secret high school sweetheart is her next door neighbor, she’s not so sure anymore...
Get it here --> https://smartypantsromance.com/books/...
~
Schooooool's Out. For. Summer! Sing with me!!
💜M.E. Carter
April 28, 2024
Spring Has Sprung!
A couple years ago, the kids and I started a garden. It's small. Like a couple 4 x 4 raised beds to start with and we add a new one each year. But we're not farmers and this is the first time I've intentionally tried to grow something so we're taking it slow.
This past year wasn't terribly kind to our garden. The kale was overrun by a once-every-so-often moth invasion, the cucumbers got a bacteria wilt and the whole thing died, and the broccoli never even came up.
The winter wasn't much better. For whatever reason, more weeds than we've ever seen have decided to infiltrate and it's taking a really long time to clear everything out. It's already the end of April and we haven't even planted yet! It's been kind of a bummer.
The other day, we were outside working. Bug was tilling the soil and I was digging up weeds. And low and behold, we looked down to see a lone little summer squash amidst all the chaos and disappointment, just biding his time and waiting for the conditions to be just right to bloom.
It got me thinking about this weird season of life I'm in. Adult children, son-in-laws, homeschool, retiring from writing, perimenopause, feeling like I'm in limbo as I figure what my next direction should be. It's all very chaotic and can seem pointless. Things I think will be beneficial dry up randomly. Friendships I thought were forever dissipate.
As rough as it all is sometimes, I like to think I'm similar to this little summer squash. I'm doing the underground work, making sure my roots are strong. And when the conditions are just right, I'm going to bloom.
The best part is, I know you will to.
Let's make a deal, shall we? When the outside world looks like there's so much bad that it's no wonder we can't get anywhere, let's concentrate on our roots. Do things to feed our soul. Learn skills we never thought we'd learn. Try jobs that others might question. Just experience life. When it's time, we'll bloom.
~
Get to know the Hart family in one awesome collection!
Box set includes:
Change of Hart (Hart series #1) – See how the #1 defensive lineman in the NFL and self-proclaimed bachelor met and fell in love with a widow raising an energetic son. Amazon Top 50 Bestseller!
Hart to Heart (Hart series #2) – Fall more in love with the Hart family as life throws them a massive curveball that will challenge everything they know, while strengthening their bonds to each other.
Matters of the Hart (Hart series #3) – Jaxon is all grown up and struggling with making his own way, apart from his dad’s legendary football status. When he interrupts a horrendous crime at his workplace, Jaxon learns strength comes in many different forms.
https://www.authormecarter.com/hartbo...
~
WE HAVE A NEW WINNER!
Jennifer********1011@yahoo.com
CONGRATULATIONS!!
Please email me so you can claim your prize!
https://www.authormecarter.com/contact
Remember, we have a new winner every month so don't forget to check if you're it!
~
What I'm currently reading...
Well, it's what I'm listening to.
I tried reading The Secret Garden as a kid and it was so boring. But this narrator has completely brought it to life. Bug and I can't stop listening. We find ourselves sitting in the car longer just to find out what is going to happen next!
Definitely one to consider if you have kids in the car and you need a book you can all discuss together.
https://amzn.to/3Q2yt0T
~
My Nerdy Little Book Friend Has a New Release!
I told you about Stage Smart by Aly Stiles and how much I was loving it last month while I was reading it. It's finally LIVE!!!!
What are you waiting for? Get to reading!!
https://smartypantsromance.com/books/...
~
Don't forget to work on those roots. It's almost time for us to bloom.
💜M.E. Carter
This past year wasn't terribly kind to our garden. The kale was overrun by a once-every-so-often moth invasion, the cucumbers got a bacteria wilt and the whole thing died, and the broccoli never even came up.
The winter wasn't much better. For whatever reason, more weeds than we've ever seen have decided to infiltrate and it's taking a really long time to clear everything out. It's already the end of April and we haven't even planted yet! It's been kind of a bummer.
The other day, we were outside working. Bug was tilling the soil and I was digging up weeds. And low and behold, we looked down to see a lone little summer squash amidst all the chaos and disappointment, just biding his time and waiting for the conditions to be just right to bloom.
It got me thinking about this weird season of life I'm in. Adult children, son-in-laws, homeschool, retiring from writing, perimenopause, feeling like I'm in limbo as I figure what my next direction should be. It's all very chaotic and can seem pointless. Things I think will be beneficial dry up randomly. Friendships I thought were forever dissipate.
As rough as it all is sometimes, I like to think I'm similar to this little summer squash. I'm doing the underground work, making sure my roots are strong. And when the conditions are just right, I'm going to bloom.
The best part is, I know you will to.
Let's make a deal, shall we? When the outside world looks like there's so much bad that it's no wonder we can't get anywhere, let's concentrate on our roots. Do things to feed our soul. Learn skills we never thought we'd learn. Try jobs that others might question. Just experience life. When it's time, we'll bloom.
~
Get to know the Hart family in one awesome collection!
Box set includes:
Change of Hart (Hart series #1) – See how the #1 defensive lineman in the NFL and self-proclaimed bachelor met and fell in love with a widow raising an energetic son. Amazon Top 50 Bestseller!
Hart to Heart (Hart series #2) – Fall more in love with the Hart family as life throws them a massive curveball that will challenge everything they know, while strengthening their bonds to each other.
Matters of the Hart (Hart series #3) – Jaxon is all grown up and struggling with making his own way, apart from his dad’s legendary football status. When he interrupts a horrendous crime at his workplace, Jaxon learns strength comes in many different forms.
https://www.authormecarter.com/hartbo...
~
WE HAVE A NEW WINNER!
Jennifer********1011@yahoo.com
CONGRATULATIONS!!
Please email me so you can claim your prize!
https://www.authormecarter.com/contact
Remember, we have a new winner every month so don't forget to check if you're it!
~
What I'm currently reading...
Well, it's what I'm listening to.
I tried reading The Secret Garden as a kid and it was so boring. But this narrator has completely brought it to life. Bug and I can't stop listening. We find ourselves sitting in the car longer just to find out what is going to happen next!
Definitely one to consider if you have kids in the car and you need a book you can all discuss together.
https://amzn.to/3Q2yt0T
~
My Nerdy Little Book Friend Has a New Release!
I told you about Stage Smart by Aly Stiles and how much I was loving it last month while I was reading it. It's finally LIVE!!!!
What are you waiting for? Get to reading!!
https://smartypantsromance.com/books/...
~
Don't forget to work on those roots. It's almost time for us to bloom.
💜M.E. Carter
March 27, 2024
TIME TO PARTY!!!
Spring Break is finally upon us and that means it's time to PARTY!!!
And by "party," I mean spring cleaning at work, finding people to watch Bug while I'm gone, and cursing the fact that we got almost no winter and my perimenpause was really hoping for lots of snow. Booooo.
Adulting just sucks sometimes, doesn't it?
The good news is, as grown ups we decide what books to read and we have some great ones to snatch up these days. So what are we waiting for? Here are some recommendations:
Nothing is better than a FREE book for Spring Break!
Playing with Fire is short, sweet and FREE! If you haven't read this before, what are you waiting for?
This free prequel starts off the Florida Glaze series with a... ahem, bang. Check it out and enjoy it on me!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Mh9Bin
Apple Books: https://apple.co/3tuw9U2
Nook: https://bit.ly/3vB2yv8
Kobo: https://bit.ly/3IE8BT6
Google Play: https://bit.ly/3CbR7Lx
~
You can go ahead and preorder Stage Smart by Aly Stiles now. It comes out in less than a month, but you don't want to forget. It's just delightful. But honestly, I expect nothing less from Aly. She's one of my automatic one-click authors for good reason. This rock star romance doesn't disappoint!
https://amzn.to/49lzrw4
~
My Nerdy Little Book Friend Shirl Rickman Has a New Release!
Following your heart is a risk and will leave you wondering … What if it hurts?
Get it here --> https://amzn.to/3xdw8JO
~
I'd say to stay warm but... stupid Spring.
💜M.E. Carter
And by "party," I mean spring cleaning at work, finding people to watch Bug while I'm gone, and cursing the fact that we got almost no winter and my perimenpause was really hoping for lots of snow. Booooo.
Adulting just sucks sometimes, doesn't it?
The good news is, as grown ups we decide what books to read and we have some great ones to snatch up these days. So what are we waiting for? Here are some recommendations:
Nothing is better than a FREE book for Spring Break!
Playing with Fire is short, sweet and FREE! If you haven't read this before, what are you waiting for?
This free prequel starts off the Florida Glaze series with a... ahem, bang. Check it out and enjoy it on me!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Mh9Bin
Apple Books: https://apple.co/3tuw9U2
Nook: https://bit.ly/3vB2yv8
Kobo: https://bit.ly/3IE8BT6
Google Play: https://bit.ly/3CbR7Lx
~
You can go ahead and preorder Stage Smart by Aly Stiles now. It comes out in less than a month, but you don't want to forget. It's just delightful. But honestly, I expect nothing less from Aly. She's one of my automatic one-click authors for good reason. This rock star romance doesn't disappoint!
https://amzn.to/49lzrw4
~
My Nerdy Little Book Friend Shirl Rickman Has a New Release!
Following your heart is a risk and will leave you wondering … What if it hurts?
Get it here --> https://amzn.to/3xdw8JO
~
I'd say to stay warm but... stupid Spring.
💜M.E. Carter
January 28, 2024
I don't think it will be a new me this year...
While prepping for the new year back in late December, I started wondering if I had stayed on track with my theme word for 2023. (I gave up on goals years ago. Trying to create a vibe works much better for me.) But it dawned on me... I couldn't even remember what my theme word was!
At some point, it apparently changed to organization but was it because I had already accomplished the other one or had I given up?
Turns out, I had forgotten that I was hoping to have some rejuvenation in 2023.
I utterly failed that attempt.
In fact, I would argue that adding homeschool, driver's ed for one kid and a wedding for another obliterated my entire attempt at a calm vibe for the year.
So I figured, what the hell. Let's try it again in 2024!
What I've done so far is make a point of saying "no" unless I have to. For instance, as much as I want to keep my Saturday on the couch, I probably should drive my 8-year-old to his state chess tournament. On the flip side, however, I've cancelled a couple of signings I was set to attend this year so I can rest instead.
I've also lowered my Goodreads goal for the year. I want to read what I want and sometimes that means a 700k word Dramione instead of seven or eight other books! (You can friend me here if you're on Goodreads. I kind of like the book discussions!) I'm hoping that will take some of the pressure off reading and make it fun again.
Past that, I'm not really sure how to accomplish rejuvenation so any recommendations or tips would be appreciated. Just drop me an email with your best advice. I could use it!
Do you set a New Year's Resolution? Or do you go for more of a yearly theme word like me? I'd love to hear what you do!
~
WE HAVE A NEW WINNER!
norma*****s@sbcglobal.net
CONGRATULATIONS!!
Please email me so you can claim your prize!
Remember, we have a new winner every month so don't forget to check if you're it!
Email me at authormecarter.com/contact
~
Start 2024 Off with a SUPER SALE!!
Get the entire Texas Mutiny series, that's three full length novels and two novellas for just $2.99. Limited time only so grab it while you can!
Apple Books: https://apple.co/2R7gtqi
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3rUW0Sq
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3dDmSBf
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2PEVxqn
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/31QCyM1
Nook: https://bit.ly/3wHCBrQ
Kobo: https://bit.ly/31XCeeh
Google Play: https://bit.ly/3dDkudF
Eden Books: https://edenbooks.org/product/texas-m...
~
What I'm Currently Reading:
Troublemaker by Leah Remind
Whoa.
Yes, it's a few years old and there were parts that dragged a little. But all of that is forgiven because of some of the bombshells she drops. It's little wonder she leaves a disclaimer about herself and her family at the very beginning.
You'll see what I mean when you read it.
Grab it here --> https://amzn.to/3OkKkXk
~
Are You Looking For a Place to Connect?
Join us in the Nerdy Little Book Herd on Facebook!
We don't talk drama or politics or religion. And there's no promo so you aren't inundated with links. It's just straight book talk and fun! (We might talk about movies and Netflix, too!)
What's stopping you? Your Herd is waiting for you!
Join here --> https://www.facebook.com/groups/Nerdy...
~
Good luck with your theme word. Let's rejuvenate a bit!
💜M.E. Carter
At some point, it apparently changed to organization but was it because I had already accomplished the other one or had I given up?
Turns out, I had forgotten that I was hoping to have some rejuvenation in 2023.
I utterly failed that attempt.
In fact, I would argue that adding homeschool, driver's ed for one kid and a wedding for another obliterated my entire attempt at a calm vibe for the year.
So I figured, what the hell. Let's try it again in 2024!
What I've done so far is make a point of saying "no" unless I have to. For instance, as much as I want to keep my Saturday on the couch, I probably should drive my 8-year-old to his state chess tournament. On the flip side, however, I've cancelled a couple of signings I was set to attend this year so I can rest instead.
I've also lowered my Goodreads goal for the year. I want to read what I want and sometimes that means a 700k word Dramione instead of seven or eight other books! (You can friend me here if you're on Goodreads. I kind of like the book discussions!) I'm hoping that will take some of the pressure off reading and make it fun again.
Past that, I'm not really sure how to accomplish rejuvenation so any recommendations or tips would be appreciated. Just drop me an email with your best advice. I could use it!
Do you set a New Year's Resolution? Or do you go for more of a yearly theme word like me? I'd love to hear what you do!
~
WE HAVE A NEW WINNER!
norma*****s@sbcglobal.net
CONGRATULATIONS!!
Please email me so you can claim your prize!
Remember, we have a new winner every month so don't forget to check if you're it!
Email me at authormecarter.com/contact
~
Start 2024 Off with a SUPER SALE!!
Get the entire Texas Mutiny series, that's three full length novels and two novellas for just $2.99. Limited time only so grab it while you can!
Apple Books: https://apple.co/2R7gtqi
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3rUW0Sq
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3dDmSBf
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2PEVxqn
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/31QCyM1
Nook: https://bit.ly/3wHCBrQ
Kobo: https://bit.ly/31XCeeh
Google Play: https://bit.ly/3dDkudF
Eden Books: https://edenbooks.org/product/texas-m...
~
What I'm Currently Reading:
Troublemaker by Leah Remind
Whoa.
Yes, it's a few years old and there were parts that dragged a little. But all of that is forgiven because of some of the bombshells she drops. It's little wonder she leaves a disclaimer about herself and her family at the very beginning.
You'll see what I mean when you read it.
Grab it here --> https://amzn.to/3OkKkXk
~
Are You Looking For a Place to Connect?
Join us in the Nerdy Little Book Herd on Facebook!
We don't talk drama or politics or religion. And there's no promo so you aren't inundated with links. It's just straight book talk and fun! (We might talk about movies and Netflix, too!)
What's stopping you? Your Herd is waiting for you!
Join here --> https://www.facebook.com/groups/Nerdy...
~
Good luck with your theme word. Let's rejuvenate a bit!
💜M.E. Carter
August 27, 2023
The climate is changing in Booklandia... or is it?
There has been a lot of drama in romancelandia lately.
From TikTok entitlement to cancel culture to bad behavior at signings, it seems like there is a new drama every week, doesn't it?
I will admit a lot of us are tired of it all and wish we could go back to "the way things were". But do we really?
I think back to 2012 and the things we all experienced. There was madness and chaos and lines that were too long at some of the original signing events. There were readers who crossed lines with cover models. There were authors behaving badly online.
It wasn't a collective mob scene or anything, but eventually the bad apples were weeded out.
Now they're back.
I'm not really surprised, though. There is a whole new generation of readers suddenly attending events and learning how to video blog like we did a decade or so ago. They have their own bad apples to weed out.
It'll take time, but it'll all balance out again, and then a third generation will come up and we'll do the process all over. It seems to be the circle of romance life, if you will.
I wrote an article about it in this month's Blush magazine. You can read it here--> https://blush-magazine.com/magazine/i...
But just remember, if you're tired of the drama, it's likely because you're a veteran. You've done your time. This new generation will figure it out. We always do.
~
In case you missed it, Juked is an
End of Summer Freebie!!!
Juked: verb.
/jook-t/
A slang soccer term meaning: faked out, deceived, confused your opponent
See examples Daniel Zavaro and Quincy Watson:
As the rising star in Houston, Daniel has found fame as Captain of his Pro soccer team and the city’s most eligible bachelor. Daniel has everything – except someone special – and that suits him just fine. He doesn’t want, or need, complications.
Quincy has baggage, and lots of it. After a tragic accident spins her world on its axis, she finds herself as a single mother, raising a newborn nephew she never knew she had. Between parenthood, her full-time job, and dealing with the suffocating grief of losing her sister, every day is a struggle.
When they begin to cross paths unexpectedly and often, an unlikely friendship starts to evolve. Feelings change. Lines get crossed. What happens next surprises them both...
Before they know it-- they’ve been Juked.
Grab it here! https://books2read.com/u/bxKZv4
((Keep in mind, Amazon is STILL having a hard time price matching the US store. But it's free literally everywhere else so grab it anywhere!))
~
What I'm currently reading...
I got a chance to read Chemistry of the Heart by Emi Leon and I absolutely adored it! To be totally transparent, I love the entire series, but this one was just a step above the rest!
If you love romance about smart, sciency people, this will be right up your alley. This forced-proximity, second chance romance hit me right in all the feels!
Preorder it now! https://amzn.to/3OEwM8d
~
Who wants a free sports romance book?
Pucks fly when a Ukrainian/American hockey god tries to shoot around the 'no- fraternization' policy with the new social media manager for the team in this hockey love story. Twitter is about to explode!
"That 'no-fraternization' policy is about to get broken." -Evan Kazmeirowicz, VEGAS CRUSH
Definitely the goal in mind for the star winger and team captain of the Vegas Crush the day he lays eyes on the new social media manager for the team.
But for Holly Laurent, it’s something more along the lines of: never-ever-gonna-happen-Mr.- Hottie-McHockeypants. Dating a “player” is a risky business, especially if she wants to keep the job she just landed with the hottest team in the NHL.
Holly loves her independence and her career. She’s doing just fine on her own, thank you very much. Allowing her head to be turned by a hot hockey player and putting her job at risk? Not. Happening. Ever. Not even if he looks like a god. Not even if he possesses enough charm to tempt the panties from a nun. Not even if she has to cross her fingers behind her back every time she tells him she’s not interested.
Policies exist for a reason. Rules are not meant to be broken and sexy players are not to be trusted. Right?
Download for free --> https://dl.bookfunnel.com/dxlav7bw2c
~
Stay cool, my friends. Autumn is almost here!!!
💜M.E. Carter
From TikTok entitlement to cancel culture to bad behavior at signings, it seems like there is a new drama every week, doesn't it?
I will admit a lot of us are tired of it all and wish we could go back to "the way things were". But do we really?
I think back to 2012 and the things we all experienced. There was madness and chaos and lines that were too long at some of the original signing events. There were readers who crossed lines with cover models. There were authors behaving badly online.
It wasn't a collective mob scene or anything, but eventually the bad apples were weeded out.
Now they're back.
I'm not really surprised, though. There is a whole new generation of readers suddenly attending events and learning how to video blog like we did a decade or so ago. They have their own bad apples to weed out.
It'll take time, but it'll all balance out again, and then a third generation will come up and we'll do the process all over. It seems to be the circle of romance life, if you will.
I wrote an article about it in this month's Blush magazine. You can read it here--> https://blush-magazine.com/magazine/i...
But just remember, if you're tired of the drama, it's likely because you're a veteran. You've done your time. This new generation will figure it out. We always do.
~
In case you missed it, Juked is an
End of Summer Freebie!!!
Juked: verb.
/jook-t/
A slang soccer term meaning: faked out, deceived, confused your opponent
See examples Daniel Zavaro and Quincy Watson:
As the rising star in Houston, Daniel has found fame as Captain of his Pro soccer team and the city’s most eligible bachelor. Daniel has everything – except someone special – and that suits him just fine. He doesn’t want, or need, complications.
Quincy has baggage, and lots of it. After a tragic accident spins her world on its axis, she finds herself as a single mother, raising a newborn nephew she never knew she had. Between parenthood, her full-time job, and dealing with the suffocating grief of losing her sister, every day is a struggle.
When they begin to cross paths unexpectedly and often, an unlikely friendship starts to evolve. Feelings change. Lines get crossed. What happens next surprises them both...
Before they know it-- they’ve been Juked.
Grab it here! https://books2read.com/u/bxKZv4
((Keep in mind, Amazon is STILL having a hard time price matching the US store. But it's free literally everywhere else so grab it anywhere!))
~
What I'm currently reading...
I got a chance to read Chemistry of the Heart by Emi Leon and I absolutely adored it! To be totally transparent, I love the entire series, but this one was just a step above the rest!
If you love romance about smart, sciency people, this will be right up your alley. This forced-proximity, second chance romance hit me right in all the feels!
Preorder it now! https://amzn.to/3OEwM8d
~
Who wants a free sports romance book?
Pucks fly when a Ukrainian/American hockey god tries to shoot around the 'no- fraternization' policy with the new social media manager for the team in this hockey love story. Twitter is about to explode!
"That 'no-fraternization' policy is about to get broken." -Evan Kazmeirowicz, VEGAS CRUSH
Definitely the goal in mind for the star winger and team captain of the Vegas Crush the day he lays eyes on the new social media manager for the team.
But for Holly Laurent, it’s something more along the lines of: never-ever-gonna-happen-Mr.- Hottie-McHockeypants. Dating a “player” is a risky business, especially if she wants to keep the job she just landed with the hottest team in the NHL.
Holly loves her independence and her career. She’s doing just fine on her own, thank you very much. Allowing her head to be turned by a hot hockey player and putting her job at risk? Not. Happening. Ever. Not even if he looks like a god. Not even if he possesses enough charm to tempt the panties from a nun. Not even if she has to cross her fingers behind her back every time she tells him she’s not interested.
Policies exist for a reason. Rules are not meant to be broken and sexy players are not to be trusted. Right?
Download for free --> https://dl.bookfunnel.com/dxlav7bw2c
~
Stay cool, my friends. Autumn is almost here!!!
💜M.E. Carter
August 18, 2023
It's Our Final Freebie!
It's our last day giving out free soccer romance.
I hope you've enjoyed all the books and meeting some new-to-you authors!
For our final day, we've got another good one. Check out the link below and one-click!
Today's freebie is:
Late Tackle by Bree Kraemer
Get it here --> https://books2read.com/LateTackle
I hope you've enjoyed all the books and meeting some new-to-you authors!
For our final day, we've got another good one. Check out the link below and one-click!
Today's freebie is:
Late Tackle by Bree Kraemer
Get it here --> https://books2read.com/LateTackle
August 17, 2023
What's better than a free book?
How about one that comes with a $1.99 audio upgrade on Amazon? Grab it while you can!*
*Amazon US is having a bit of a problem sticking with the free price which is not good timing, but there is it. It's also the only retailer with this issue. We've been assured by customer service that it's being fixed, but if you click and it happens to still cost money, feel free to use any of the other retailers. Juked has been listed as free everywhere else for several days now!
https://books2read.com/u/bxKZv4
*Amazon US is having a bit of a problem sticking with the free price which is not good timing, but there is it. It's also the only retailer with this issue. We've been assured by customer service that it's being fixed, but if you click and it happens to still cost money, feel free to use any of the other retailers. Juked has been listed as free everywhere else for several days now!
https://books2read.com/u/bxKZv4
August 16, 2023
This one is free for ONE DAY ONLY!!!
Don't hesitate, just one-click this baby!
Beautiful Game by Lainey Davis.
Get it here --> https://books2read.com/u/mqwKJ2
Beautiful Game by Lainey Davis.
Get it here --> https://books2read.com/u/mqwKJ2
August 15, 2023
I'm back with another freebie!
We’ve got World Cup Fever…and we think soccer romance is the cure (or football romance, if you’re not American!).
Do you swoon when the hero scores? Are you geared up for goals? Do you faint for freebies?
I’ve teamed up with some soccer romance author friends to bring you a week of FREE books to prep you for the thrilling final. Each of these steamy soccer stories will have you curling your toes, fanning your face, and waving your yellow card. Check out today’s freebie:
Hearts in Extra Time by Rebecca Crowley
Grab it here... https://books2read.com/u/49DRld
Do you swoon when the hero scores? Are you geared up for goals? Do you faint for freebies?
I’ve teamed up with some soccer romance author friends to bring you a week of FREE books to prep you for the thrilling final. Each of these steamy soccer stories will have you curling your toes, fanning your face, and waving your yellow card. Check out today’s freebie:
Hearts in Extra Time by Rebecca Crowley
Grab it here... https://books2read.com/u/49DRld
