Thank you!
Julie
Thursday, June 4, 2026
Cowboy Kisses News ~ Julie Lence
Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Character Interview with Barbie Bennett ~ Julie Lence
On a warm,
spring afternoon in Reno, Nevada, I’m visiting with pop music star and CEO of
Bella Cosmetics, Barbie Bennett. Exiting the elevator into Bella’s newly
renovated offices of charcoal grey and raspberry, Barbie’s niece and assistant,
Tina, strides toward me, a red skirt swishing around her knees and the hum of typewriters
and hushed voices wafting behind her. After
a warm greeting, Tina leads the way to Barbie’s office; a large room with the same
grey and raspberry colors, floor-to-ceiling windows offering a stunning view of
the mountains outside of town, and an over-stuffed sofa and chairs grouped
around a coffee table. Seated in one of the chairs is Barbie Bennett. Long dark
hair, flawless makeup, and a blue pin-striped suit tailored to fit her slim
figure, Barbie’s smile puts to ease any jitters I may have regarding the famed singer.
Tina is quick to make introductions and point me to a chair, then she leaves
and Barbie turns her attention my way.
‘Please, call me Barbie.’
‘All right,’ I swallow nervously. Afterall, she is famous world-wide. ‘Barbie, can you tell my readers a little about yourself? Please?’
A small crease in her brow, she lifts a silver coffee carafe off a tray on the table before us and pours coffee into two cups. ‘I’m not sure what I can tell your readers that hasn’t already been printed about me.’ She sets the pot down, pushes the creamer and sugar my direction, and a platter of pastries, which I decline, even though they look sinfully delicious. ‘Everyone knows I have a twin sister—Bailey. She’s a big star in country music.’ She fixes her coffee then, with cup in hand, sinks back into the chair’s cushions. ‘We grew up on a ranch outside of Reno with our six older brothers. They’re all married now, with children of their own. Mom and Dad still live on the ranch, along with our several head of cattle and numerous horses. Almost everyone in the family rides, and alongside our ranch hands, we have three barns to house most of the horses. The others are housed at my brothers’ private barns. A smile spreads across her heart-shaped face. Zach works the ranch. He and I have been together ever since the afternoon he rescued me at the Cheyenne Frontier Days.’
‘When was that? And how did he rescue you?’
‘Four years ago. At the time I didn’t know, but Zach was a bull rider. He was at Frontier Days to compete in the rodeo. I was there to sing. My tour bus and trucks had just pulled in to the back lot when my crew decided to go in search of turkey legs, including my bodyguard, Seth. I wasn’t hungry, so I decided to walk behind the chutes and pens housing small animals. Two days on the tour bus and I really needed to stretch my legs.’ She pauses for a sip of coffee. ‘Anyway, my ex was there, which I didn’t know. He and I didn’t part on good terms.’ She grips the cup, and hard. ‘He came up behind me, accused me of sabotaging his career—he’s a musician. I tried to get away, but he grabbed my arm and yanked me to him. That’s when Zach pulled him off me and shoved him to the ground. Before I could react, Seth appeared and squired be back to the bus. Later, I sent Seth in search of Zach, to ask him to join me for supper.’
‘How did that go?’
Her eyes twinkling, a blush creeps into her cheeks. ‘He was… I was…’ She swallows hard. ‘I don’t remember what we ate, but I can tell you, I wanted him to kiss me. So much, I actually ached for his touch, which surprised and scared me. As I said, my ex and I didn’t part on good terms. He broke my trust and my heart, so much that another relationship was the last thing I wanted. But Zach was different. He was every bit the cowboy; polite, quiet, and so gosh-darn handsome. And those muscles…’ She sighs dreamily. ‘He’s still all of those things. There isn’t a day that goes by that I’m not thankful I met him the following afternoon behind the chutes.’
‘How would you describe Zach?’
‘Honest, hard-working, loyal; someone you’d want for a friend. Lucky me, I’m the one who has his heart.’
‘How would Zach describe you?’
‘What is your biggest fear?’
‘Losing Zach. He’s everything to me, the one person except for Bailey who knows me better than I know myself. He keeps me grounded, and warms my heart every time he smiles my way. The fame and fortune; I’d give it all up in a heartbeat. But not him. There’s no living without him.’
‘How do you relax?’
‘Friday nights, I snuggle against Zach on the couch in my suite at Ringo’s, the family casino. The lights are low, soft music plays on the radio, and with his arms around me, that’s the best way to forget the tension and stress of the week.’
‘With Zach. Hopefully, in our own home either on Bennett Ranch or in town. I see him promoted to one of the three foreman we have and me continuing to find ways for Bella to remain successful while singing at the casino.
‘Thank you
for taking time out of your day to talk with me. And for those of you who haven’t
read Barbie and Zach’s story, pop on over to Amazon and grab a copy of, The Pop Star Loves Her Cowboy. You’ll be
glad you did!’
Tuesday, June 2, 2026
Blue Moon Cowboy
It's almost release day for Blue Moon Cowboy!
When I saw the cover for sale from one of my favorite designers, I knew I had to have it. She'd put "Blue Moon Cowboy" as the title as a placeholder, but I loved it.
So, I decided to write a story to match the cover, and ended up using an older couple who had no intention of falling in love.
Once in a Blue Moon is such a fun phrase. Did you know it's been kicking around for more than 400 years?
The earliest known recording of a "blue moon" appeared in a 1528 pamphlet by William Roy and Jerome Barlowe. Back then, saying "the moon is blue" was synonymous with something completely impossible or untrue—much like saying "pigs can fly."
By the 19th century, the phrase began shifting to mean something highly unlikely but possible. This is because massive volcanic eruptions (such as Krakatoa in 1883) and forest fires (like the 1951 Canadian wildfires) threw dust and smoke high into the atmosphere, which really did make the moon appear pale blue.
The Maine Farmers' Almanac popularized the term in the 19th century, defining a "blue moon" as the third full moon in a season that contained four instead of the usual three.
Regardless of where or when the term originated, it sure fits the cowboy in my story.
Widower Jason Price isn’t looking for romance. As a trusted pickup man for the Rockin’ K Rodeo Company, part-owner of his family’s ranch, and a proud grandpa, his days—and his heart—are already full. Love is for younger folks with fewer scars and more time.
Photographer Lainey Collins traded corporate life for the open road, capturing the faces and stories of everyday people. Living out of her travel van, she’s built a life of freedom, purpose, and just enough distance to keep her heart safe.
But when a chance meeting at a rodeo puts her in Jason’s orbit, everything begins to shift.
As Lainey sets out to create a book featuring the faces of the rodeo, she finds herself returning again and again—to the arena… and to Jason. What begins as a project turns into something deeper as sparks fly, laughter comes easy, and two guarded hearts start to open.
Falling in love is one thing.
But trusting it—and daring to build a future—is another.
Can a cowboy who’s learned to live without love and a woman who’s always kept moving finally find a place to belong… together?
USA Today bestselling author Shanna Hatfield grew up on a farm where her childhood brimmed with sunshine, hay fever, and an ongoing supply of learning experiences.
Today, Shanna draws on her rural roots to create sweet and wholesome romances filled with hope, humor, quirky small-town characters, realistic heroes, and women of strength. Her historical westerns have been described as historically accurate, blending facts with engaging fiction, while her contemporary works have been called laugh-out-loud funny, swoony, and heartwarming.
When this award-winning author isn’t writing or testing out new recipes (she loves to bake!), Shanna hangs out at home in the Pacific Northwest with her beloved husband, better known as Captain Cavedweller.
To learn more about Shanna or the books she writes, visit her website.
He’s spent decades guarding his heart.
She’s spent a lifetime chasing the horizon.
Neither of them were prepared for love to catch them by surprise.
Widower Jason Price isn’t looking for romance. As a trusted pickup man for the Rockin’ K Rodeo Company, part-owner of his family’s ranch, and a proud grandpa, his days—and his heart—are already full. Love is for younger folks with fewer scars and more time.
Photographer Lainey Collins traded corporate life for the open road, capturing the faces and stories of everyday people. Living out of her travel van, she’s built a life of freedom, purpose, and just enough distance to keep her heart safe.
But when a chance meeting at a rodeo puts her in Jason’s orbit, everything begins to shift.
As Lainey sets out to create a book featuring the faces of the rodeo, she finds herself returning again and again—to the arena… and to Jason. What begins as a project turns into something deeper as sparks fly, laughter comes easy, and two guarded hearts start to open.
Falling in love is one thing.
But trusting it—and daring to build a future—is another.
Can a cowboy who’s learned to live without love and a woman who’s always kept moving finally find a place to belong… together?
USA Today bestselling author Shanna Hatfield grew up on a farm where her childhood brimmed with sunshine, hay fever, and an ongoing supply of learning experiences.
Today, Shanna draws on her rural roots to create sweet and wholesome romances filled with hope, humor, quirky small-town characters, realistic heroes, and women of strength. Her historical westerns have been described as historically accurate, blending facts with engaging fiction, while her contemporary works have been called laugh-out-loud funny, swoony, and heartwarming.
When this award-winning author isn’t writing or testing out new recipes (she loves to bake!), Shanna hangs out at home in the Pacific Northwest with her beloved husband, better known as Captain Cavedweller.
To learn more about Shanna or the books she writes, visit her website.
Monday, June 1, 2026
Update on The Falcon
By Kristy McCaffrey
THE FALCON, Book Twelve in my Wings of the West series, has a new release date of 9/22/26.
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One goal I had was to tie it back to THE WREN (Book One), to create a satisfying bookend to the entire series, since THE FALCON will be the last book. THE FALCON features Josie, the daughter of Molly Hart Ryan from THE WREN, and the two women are very much alike.
It’s taken me longer than I’d planned to find the threads that connect the two stories, but I've finally got a handle on the recursiveness I've been searching for, and now I just need to write it. (Hint: it involves the backstories of both Molly and her husband, Matt.)
If you preordered at Apple Books or Nook, then you're fine. No need to do anything. Your e-book will be delivered to your e-reader on the new date.
If you preordered from Amazon, unfortunately your order has been cancelled. Amazon only allows a change of one month. No worries, though. You were never charged. When the book releases in September, it will of course be available on Amazon, and you'll be able to purchase it then. (Which I hope you will!!)
On release day, the book will also be available at Kobo and Google Play Books, as well as Everand and Kobo Plus.
Thank you for your patience and understanding. I think it
will be worth the wait!
Wings of the West: Book 12
Coming September 22, 2026
Mexico
December 1899
Josie Ryan’s connection to Texas runs deep, from the land to an almost preternatural kinship with the animals in the wild. This bond has led her to the edge of life and death, from saving a boy caught in a fire when she was eleven years old to being struck by lightning to a mountain lion attack that almost ended her life. The discovery of an abandoned falcon chick leads to a fierce attachment, but with only intuition to guide her, Josie struggles to train the wildest creature she’s ever encountered. When she learns of a man who could help, she’s determined to gain an introduction.
Mateo Almirón, El Halconero—The Falconer—and Argentine gaucho, is tasked with delivering two prized purebred Criollo mares to Matt Ryan, a man whose reputation casts a long shadow. Years ago, Ryan saved the life of Mateo’s father, and the horses will settle the longstanding debt, but when the exchange goes wrong, Mateo is entrusted with protecting Ryan’s daughter, Josie. Now Mateo and Josie must hide in the mountains of Northern Mexico where stories abound of Josie’s mother, a woman who lived among the Comanche and rose from the dead.
But in a place alive with superstition, Josie and her untamed falcon will give rise to a new legend …
Josie is the youngest child of Matt and Molly from THE WREN.
* * * * *
Available for pre-order from Nook and Apple Books.
(It will also be available at Amazon, Kobo, Google Play Books, and in paperback on release day.)
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Connect with Kristy
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Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Using horses as therapy for children and adults
Today I have the pleasure of interviewing my lovely neighbor, Robyn Lawrence. Her book Hoofbeats & Heartbeats has recently been released. Congratulations, Robyn! How exciting for you. That’s quite an achievement, and thank you for joining me today.
Thank you for having me, and for featuring my book.
It sounds like you have dedicated many years to learning and helping both people and horses.
Yes, as a psychotherapist, I’m certified as a recreational therapist and a teacher for special needs middle school student. These skills have come into play over my years of volunteering at the nearby therapeutic facility, Hearts and Horses. I’m also a Reiki practitioner and am trained in equine massage therapy.
That’s an impressive list of accomplishments, (I bet your horses love spa day, lol). I understand before you wrote your book, you were also putting these skills to use in your EASE program. Tell us about that.
I initiated the EASE program with my equine facilitators at my own home in Northern Colorad,. EASE stands for Equine Assisted Self-Empowerment. This can be done in groups, or on an individual basis. For more information, please shoot me an e-mail.
Q: How did your decision to write Hoofbeats & Heartbeats, an interactive journal for self-discovery, come about…longtime idea or a sudden flash of inspiration.
A: I’d have to say it was a combination or both. My passion for horses stretches way back. Then, after a recent physical trauma of my own, I gained personal insight as to what this type of healing can do.
Seeing the increase in mental health issues for young adults, and the general decline in mental wellness of all ages, I felt a need to reach out. Trauma, physical or mental, is very personal, and effects people on many levels from life threatening to simply having a series “bad days”. If my learning and experience could help, I wanted to make it available to others.
Q: As far as readers, whom do you see as your target group.
A: Generally, the 11-19 age group, but that means emotionally, as well as chronologically. We are all learning as we grow, and many adults have found lessons in the book helpful too.
I really liked the way you brought the spirit of the horse and other animals into play. Nature and animals are so amazing if we take the time to look.
Q: In Hoofbeats & Heartbeats you tackle some weighty subjects such as past abuse, grief, bullying, and lack of confidence, but then you give people tools to heal and help deal with these situations.
A: Yes. In this chaotic world so many of us are burdened by some form or stress, and we often lack support or direction. The journal is meant to help ( especially young people) identify their emotions, which leads to empowerment.
Q: Can people work on this journal both individually, as well as in groups--perhaps with a facilitator.
A: Absolutely. Both the book and the EASE program can be approached in groups or on the individual level.
Q: What animals do you have now? How about a bit of a brag as to your past adventures and achievements showing horses.
A: At present, I have a great combination of two dogs, twenty chickens, three horse, and one terrific husband.
I showed Paint and Quarter horses for over twenty years, both Western and English style. And I was thrilled to place in the world show competition. So many great experiences, and several fellow competitors remain dear friends.
Q: What is the most important thing you would like readers to take away from Hoofbeats & Heartbeats.
A: You are enough, and you are not alone. Horses can help you become aware of your authentic self, while building trust in yourself. Understanding your emotions, empowers you.
Now for a fun question:
Q: What would you like to be for 48 hours—a rock star, butterfly, a tree, a ballerina, a soaring eagle…a horse! Why?
A: An eagle. I’m afraid of heights so the eagle might help me there! I would feel the power of freedom, and get a wonderful aerial view to broaden my focus and see the world from a different perspective.
Q: A brave choice, considering your fear of heights. Anything you would like to add?
A: During my research and writing process, my eighteen-year-old granddaughter and twenty-one-year-old grandson were so helpful with input from their point of view. It was such an unexpected opportunity for spending quality time with them.
To inquire about the EASE program or purchase books in bulk at a reduced rate, please e-mail Robyn at: rlaw46@hotmail.com
Blurb:
This interactive journal is a journey into the lessons we learn from horses that reflect our own inner voices. Each prompt, page, and lesson opens a doorway to a deeper self-discovery. Understanding what horses can reveal helps uncover personal clarity and empowerment toward becoming one's authentic self.
When life's disturbing circumstances create frustrating situation, sometimes we need a mirror to help create a new path, one to celebrate. All situations are opportunities for growth. Horse therapy is a process that teaches us how to understand patterns of behavior that no longer serve us. The changes you learn to incorporate help you become stronger, more resilient, and proud of who you are becoming.
Activities and lessons will engage you in the journey.
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/people/Gini-Rifkin-Author/100001680213365
Amazon author https://amzn.to/2R53KA9
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Friday, May 22, 2026
May Rock and Frémont’s Fort by Zina Abbott
My most recent romance, Ardith Yosemite Bride, is set partly in Yosemite Valley in 1903 and 1907. However, because it also features the development of the Yosemite Valley Railroad that ended up bringing thousands of tourists to the Yosemite National Park region the first half of the twentieth century, a big portion of my story takes place along the Merced River.
The Merced River starts high in the Yosemite National Park located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Although this map does not picture it well, as the river leaves the park, it flows down through steep mountains and foothills, creating steep banks with very few level spots to accommodate roads for a railroad bed. Although not as accessible as some rivers, it played a vital role in the Mariposa Grant owned by Colonel John C. Frémont, a prominent U.S. Army mapmaker and explorer and, at one time, candidate for the office of President of the United States.
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| View of Merced River less than a mile north of the Fremont Fort marker site |
Col. Frémont was in California at the time of the Mexican-American War. In 1847—after Alta California capitulated but before
the Treaty of Hidalgo, which ended the war, was signed in February 1848—he bought a
"floating" grant of over 44,000 acres for $3,000. One of the stipulations of the treaty was that the United States government would honor legitimate Mexican land grants. Once Frémont learned of the presence of gold in the Mariposa County foothills, he adjusted his boundaries to include many rich mining areas, which they named Bear Valley.
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| 1874 by Carleton E. Watkins |
He and his wife, Jesse Benton Frémont, built their home there. It was north of the city of Mariposa and south of the Merced River.
While Frémont was gone on other business, other miners "jumped" his claims. This led to court battles that did not conclude in Frémont's favor until 1854. While waiting for court's ruling, Frémont built a fort to control the only entrance to the gold-producing mines, primarily the Josephine and Princeton Mines. The terrain was steep and rugged, and the road were few.
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| 2011 Photograph by Barry Swackhamer for hmdb historical marker |
One prominent physical feature on the Frémont property was an outcropping of quartz rock which at eighty-two feet, was considered the largest in the Motherlode Region. Originally known as Tower Rock, it became known as May Rock because for years, Jessie Frémont sponsored an annual May Day celebration at the location. Activities included picnics, racing, music, and a May Pole dance. People came from Bagby, Bear Valley, Elkhorn, Hornitos Mariposa, Quartzburg,
and Princeton.
The land was later owned by Louis Trabucco, a prominent retailer in the area.
What is the connection between a California Gold Rush town of the 1850-60s and Bagby in the early 1900s? Both May Rock and Frémont’s Fort are not many miles south of Bagby—now abandoned and covered by the water in the Bagby Reservoir. Part of Bagby on the south bank of the Merced River held Benton Mills—named after Frémont’s father-in-law—which was a quartz stamp mill to extract gold mined from Frémont’s various mines.
Sources:
https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=5783
https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=298255
https://noehill.com/mariposa/poi_may_rock.asp
California State Library; https://www.facebook.com/groups/CalHistory/posts/589102804633841/
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