Granny Rube wasn't always a granny, y'all. She was once a dreamer...
In Legacy of Ruby's Ranch, Book 3 of the award-winning Ruby's Ranch Series, we go back two generations to interview the original matriarch of Ruby's Ranch, the young and impetuous Rube Gautier.
After WWII and the devastation of the Dust Bowl, Rube tells us what life had in store for her before she became one of the most formidable ranchers of her time.
Rube Gautier is the only child of Cyrene and Samuel Gautier. She was born into a village of people who believed duty and responsibility reigned above all else, but all she wants is to leave home and start her own ranch in the Kern River Valley.
Rube does her best to accept her fate but
dreams both haunt and tantalize her. Will she follow the teachings of the
legacy or follow the tall, sexy cowboy who promises to make her dreams come
true? Let’s ask Rube.
What is your
relationship status?
She paused considering the question. “As far as my
parents are concerned, I’ve been in a relationship since I was promised to
Gabriel, but the thought of arranged marriages is so arcane. I just want to
live my own life and fall in love.” She smiled, coyly. “I’d be interested in
learning more about that gorgeous cowboy, Mac Adams. The whole, strong, silent,
war hero thing he has going, keeps me up at night. If you know what I mean?”
When you look
in the mirror, what do you see?
“I see a stubborn, passionate woman who looks
particularly like her mother when she pulls her hair back into a clip.
Someone who knows exactly what she wants but can’t break Papa’s heart to get
it.”
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| Copyright to photographer |
What is
people’s first impression of you?
She pinched her face into a frown and glanced away, “You
know, I’ve never really thought of it, but I guess they might call me cranky
and willful, when really I’m curious and hopeful. The few who matter can see my
fun, flirty side.”
Name three of
your favorite things.
“I have way more than three favorite things, but I have
to say, riding my beautiful, Cremello mare, Twilight in the breaking
dawn; smelling gingerbread cookies baking in Momma’s oven; and the adorable
crooked smile Mac flashes when he’s trying to flirt. Have mercy.”
Name three
things that tick you off.
“Being told what to do. I really hate that! Also, being under the rule of ancient
tradition and being forced into a relationship not of my choosing. I think it’s
about time all of these things are challenged.”
What is your
best memory to date?
A wide smile spread across her lips and her eyes lit. “Riding
the high plains with Papa, rounding up our prized herd. Things were
so simple when I was younger. More recently, I’d have to say the vision of Mac galloping
toward me on the plateau. The commanding way he handled the most stubborn stud
on the ranch, made me feel wicked things I’ve never felt before.”
What are you
most afraid of?
“I’m afraid something bad will happen if I go against tradition.
If I lost someone I loved because of my own selfish needs, it would break me.”
What would you
like it to say on your tombstone?
“Interesting question. I’m not sure,” she pushed the
glass in front of her away and leaned on the table. “Maybe - Here lies the
passionate woman who loved hard, never gave up on her dreams, and always made
her family proud.”
Now on to
something lighter, what is your favorite drink?
“Without question, country sweet tea served in one of Momma’s
mason jars. Sweet nectar of life.”
What is your
favorite food?
“Fried chicken and biscuits and of course, Gingerbread
cookies made from our family recipe.”
What was your
first impression of Mac?
“He’s shy, and funny, and full of truth and honor. Wicked
sexy. When I first saw him, he seemed so familiar. He’s the most confidant
person I know, and he knows exactly what he wants. I admire that about him.” A
blush came to her face. “He gives me hope for a different kind of life.”
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| A little Mac motivation ~ Copyright to photographer |
If we could
only hear your voice (but not see you) what characteristic would identify you?
“Probably determination. I don’t appreciate unanswered
questions and vague explanations. I’ll pursue the truth ‘til the bitter end, even if it hurts me.”
What would you
most like to forget?
“I would like to forget the look on Papa’s face when I
told him I didn’t want anything to do with the family legacy. Disappointing him
will surely be the most devastating thing to ever happen to me. At least I hope
things won’t get worse than that.”
What is your
most prized possession?
“Well, a horse is definitely not a possession, but
Twilight is my most prized gift. She has brought me through many tumultuous
times, given me confidence and unconditional love, and she'll be the key to my happily-ever-after. I just have a feeling.”
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| Gorgeous Cremello ~ Copyright to photographer |
Thank you to Rube Gautier for sharing a few thoughts before her story releases August 21, 2019. Be sure to read her granddaughter's story, 2017 RONE Finalist, Return to Ruby's Ranch, and her daughter's story, Escape from Ruby's Ranch.
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Great character interview, Rhonda! Rube is a fun and strong lady.
ReplyDeleteThanks Julie. It’s fun to get inside her head.
DeleteYour book sounds Awesome, I would love to read it so it is going on my TBR list! I enjoyed reading this interview learning a little bit about you. I Love the covers to your books. God Bless you.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much. This is Book 3 of the series. I hope you’ll check out the first two on my amazon page. Return to Ruby’s Ranch is Book 1. Escape from Ruby’s Ranch is Book 2. I’d love to hear what you think. 🥰
ReplyDelete