Carla Beene

She was never alone.

A presence lives inside her mind and heart, always watching
Who is he?

When Cassie finds an ultrasound of her mother’s pregnancy, she is thunderstruck to learn that she had a twin who disappeared before birth. Her mother explains that both she and Cassie are chimeras, carrying traces of her vanished twin’s DNA. Cassie never knew he existed, but sometimes felt a strange, whispering presence nearby. When Orion unexpectantly appears, she refuses to believe he is her brother. How could he possibly be alive?

Meet Carla Beene

About The Author

Carla Beene was an army brat and traveled the world before settling down in Colorado. The first time she drove through New Mexico, she fell in love with the vast blue skies, rugged formations, and the starkness of the high desert. Carla found her forever home in Santa Fe.
For twenty-five years, Carla was a teacher and librarian at the New Mexico School for the Deaf. She also taught students with learning disabilities and cerebral palsy. After retiring, Carla earned a degree in Educational Diagnostics. She then tested children on the Navajo reservation and in other cities throughout New Mexico.
She is an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Carla is currently working on the Young Adult sequel to The Twin Within

Navigating Life
With a Disability

Despite the physical challenges of cerebral palsy, which often make her the target of school bullies, Cassie possesses an incredible inner strength. She finds solace in playing the guitar with her father and learning about the stars and constellations. With the unwavering support of her best friend, Kit, Cassie proves that physical limitations cannot define a person’s spirit.

Where science meets
something unexplained

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Twin Within

THE TWIN WITHIN is a compelling story that centers around Cassie, a 13-year-old girl navigating life with cerebral palsy. Her world takes a supernatural turn when she discovers the presence of her absorbed twin brother, Orion, who vanished before birth. He lives within her.

When Cassie’s mother mysteriously disappears, Orion materializes, and together, the twins embark on a perilous journey to find their mom while trying to evade the clutches of the sinister Lucius. A story of magic and family, Carla Beene’s THE TWIN WITHIN is a heartfelt adventure about courage, the power of love, and an unbreakable bond between siblings.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Beneath the
Prairie Stars

In 1848, young Maggie O’Brien and her family take a riverboat ride up the Mississippi River to Fort Snelling, Minnesota, where her father’s new job as an army scout promises a life of discovery on the American frontier.

But after tragedy strikes the O’Brien family, Maggie, Maggie is filled with grief. Determined to begin again, her family joins a wagon train bound for California, facing the untamed dangers of the Santa Fe Trail.

Along the way, unexpected encounters challenge Maggie, opening the door to understanding, healing, and hope in the most unlikely places.

Testimonials

See what readers are raving about: A life-changing story that inspires, uplifts, and proves that with faith, anything is possible!

Emily Carter

I didn’t expect this book to affect me so deeply. Cassie’s journey felt incredibly real, especially her struggles with self-doubt and identity. The idea of a vanishing twin was both fascinating and emotional. It really made me reflect on how little we truly understand ourselves. I couldn’t stop thinking about it after finishing.

Daniel Brooks

This book surprised me in the best way. It’s not just a story, it’s an experience that stays with you. Cassie’s character is beautifully written, and her emotions feel genuine throughout. The mix of science and personal struggle was handled so well. Definitely a memorable and meaningful read.

Olivia Bennett

I connected with Cassie on a very personal level. Her journey from insecurity to self-acceptance felt honest and inspiring. The concept of a hidden twin added such a unique and intriguing layer. It’s emotional without being overwhelming. A thoughtful and engaging story from start to finish.

Michael Turner

What stood out to me most was how real everything felt. The struggles, the confusion, and the growth all seemed authentic. The mystery behind her identity kept me hooked the entire time. It’s more than just a story, it makes you think about who you are. Highly recommended.

Sophia Mitchell

This story touched me in ways I didn’t expect. Cassie’s quiet strength is truly inspiring, even in her most vulnerable moments. The writing is simple yet powerful, making it easy to connect emotionally. It’s one of those books that stays with you long after you finish. I would definitely read it again.