Roped Into Paradise

 

Picture a snowy central Oregon ranch, with several feet of snow on the ground in mid-January. Envision a handsome rancher up in the wee hours of the morning, scraping the windshield of his pickup so he can drive to the airport. 

This cowboy is heading to Florida, as he does every year, to spend two weeks with his grandmother at her condo, completing her honey-do list and celebrating her birthday. 

JJ travels light, just two changes of clothes in his duffle bag. Grams has a washing machine, and he's left the paint clothes he's worn on previous visits there anyway. 

When he arrives at the condo, hours later than he planned due to ice on the runway and missing his connecting flight, he finds his grandmother's hot pink luggage piled just inside the door of her condo. 

Too tired to consider what it means, he heads to bed, only to be awakened early by Grams, who informs him they need to do some shopping for him before they leave to catch their 11-day cruise to the Caribbean. 

My new release, Roped Into Paradise, is the story of JJ, Grams, her wacky friends, and a cruise that will change his life forever when he unexpectedly falls in love with the horticulturist on the ship. 

A cowboy, a cruise, and a meddling grandma.

What could go wrong?

JJ McKade expected to spend two weeks with his grandmother at her condo in sunny Florida, celebrating her birthday. Instead, he got shanghaied by his mischievous grandma on a Caribbean cruise—complete with hot pink luggage, a gaggle of giggling octogenarians, and a humiliating childhood nickname haunting his every move.

Between meddling matchmakers, unexpected friendships, and the endless chaos of cruise life, JJ can’t help being drawn to Kinsley Kline, the ship’s enchanting horticulturist. There’s just one catch: crew fraternizing with passengers is strictly forbidden.

With only a few months left in her contract aboard The Affinity, Kinsley can’t let anything rock her boat or derail her plans. Then the arrival of a hunky cowboy on the ship makes her question if some rules are meant to be broken, and a little boat rocking is a good thing.

From sun-drenched beaches to moonlit strolls, JJ and Kinsley must decide if an onboard romance can last on land, and if love is worth risking their hearts.

Packed with laughter, longing, and a grandmother who refuses to play by the rules, Roped Into Paradise is a heartwarming romantic comedy about family, hope, and finding love where you least expect it. Perfect for fans of witty banter, slow-burn romance, and cruise ship escapades that sweep you off your feet.

Today is National Take A Cruise Day, 

and to celebrate it and the release of the book, 

I'm giving away a fun prize pack.

Just click the button below and enter for a chance to win!

USA Today Bestselling Author Shanna Hatfield is a farm girl who loves to write character-driven romances with relatable heroes and heroines. Her sweet historical and contemporary romances are filled with sarcasm, humor, hope, and hunky heroes.

When Shanna isn’t dreaming up unforgettable characters, twisting plots, or covertly seeking dark, decadent chocolate, she hangs out with her beloved husband, Captain Cavedweller.

Shanna is a member of Western Writers of America and Women Writing the West.

Connect with her on her website or through social media.

The Bridge

 

Today is the official release day of my contemporary fiction book The Bridge.

Although the story is set in the city of Portland, Oregon, it has all the components of the small town romances I typically write. There's the sense of community and lending a hand. The feeling of hope and caring. Unlikely heroes. Tough, resilient women. Friendships. Kindness. Love. 

If the book wasn't contemporary and set in the old west, here's how I envision the five main characters:

Archer (a police sergeant) would be an old west sheriff. 

Rosalee (an expectant mama-to-be) would be the damsel in distress.

Nova (a nurse) would be the midwife everyone turns to and relies on. 

Carter (a tow truck driver) would be the gruff hermit who really wants to protect and help everyone. 

Ian (a college grad searching for a job) would be the young cowboy who shows up at the ranch, eager for work. 

I hope you'll check out the book!

One Bridge. Five Strangers. A Christmas Eve That Changes Everything.

 On a bridge suspended above the Willamette River, five lives collide for a journey through hope and hardship in a suspenseful, heartwarming tale of courage, connection, and the magic of second chances.

 Sergeant Archer Raines has worked every holiday all year for one reason: to finally spend Christmas with his wife. But when a desperate man threatens to jump from Portland’s St. Johns Bridge, Archer’s expert negotiation skills are required to defuse the situation.

 Rosalee, a high-powered accountant and mom-to-be, only meant to swing by home for a forgotten phone and client file. Then her car is caught in the chaos on the bridge, she unexpectedly goes into labor, and her carefully planned world begins to unravel amidst the unfolding drama.

 Exhausted nurse Nova just wants to make it home for Christmas after too many night shifts. When the pileup halts traffic and Rosalee’s baby is on the way, Nova puts her own plans on hold to help a stranger in need.

 Carter, the owner of a busy tow truck business, regrets taking the call to clear the multi-car collision off the bridge. He’d intended to spend the day tackling last-minute holiday errands. Instead, he’s praying the lunatic pointing a gun at him doesn’t pull the trigger.

 Fresh out of college and anxious to kick-start his career, Ian’s running late when his car won't start the morning of his big interview. His rideshare driver turns out to be a captivating girl with a penchant for aggressive driving that narrowly saves them from being part of the wreck on the bridge, sending Ian on an unexpected path of his own.

 The Bridge is the perfect uplifting holiday read and a story of how one frozen moment can thaw even the loneliest of hearts.

 Links:

Amazon
B&N 
Apple 
Kobo 
Universal Book Link 

Heartfelt love stories wrapped in laughter, warmth, and happily-ever-afters.

 USA Today bestselling author Shanna Hatfield grew up on a farm where hay fever and life lessons were always in season. Today, she blends her rural roots with a love for storytelling, crafting sweet, wholesome romances filled with hope, humor, quirky characters, and realistic heroes paired with strong, inspiring heroines.

When she’s not writing or baking new recipes, you’ll find her cherishing quiet moments at home in the Pacific Northwest with her husband—affectionately known as Captain Cavedweller.

Shanna loves to hear from readers. Follow her online at:

ShannaHatfield | Facebook | Newsletter | BookBub | Pinterest

Chocolate Chip Cookies

 

Yesterday was National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day, so I thought I'd share my mama's recipe for chocolate chip cookies (see below). 

For years, I struggled to make chocolate chip cookies. They were too dry, too cakey, too flat, too ... something. 

After my mom passed away, I found a handwritten copy of her cookie recipe. I followed it to the letter and baked a batch of cookies that tasted like my childhood. 

In new new release, Sunrise Surf, the hero, Logan, loves anything with chocolate chips in them. In fact, he's quite taken with the cookies the heroine makes for a party for her nephew. 

You're probably wondering what a beach book has to do with cowboys. 

Logan grew up on a ranch in Central Oregon, and despite his work undercover for the Oregon State Police, he goes back to the ranch to see his family whenever he has a chance. 

So how does a cowboy end up posing as a surfer for the summer?

I'll let Logan explain ...

~*~

From the time he was seven until his grandfather passed away during Logan’s sophomore year of college, he’d spent two weeks every summer with his grandparents on the Oregon coast. After that, his grandmother couldn’t bear to visit the familiar places and walk through the memories the coast stirred in her thoughts.

However, it didn’t keep Logan away. He continued surfing every chance he got, even with his demanding and busy career as an Oregon State Police officer. Logan had known the first time he’d seen a state police car cruising down the lonely stretch of highway by his family’s ranch in the middle of nowhere that he wanted to work for them.

With that goal in mind, he’d pursued it until he’d become a respected member of the force.

Which is how he’d ended up undercover in Seaside.

~*~

When a police officer posing as a surfer and a doctor wading through the uncharted waters of parenting a teen join forces to dismantle a drug operation, anything is possible.

 Oregon State Police Officer Logan Wright swaps his badge for a board, posing undercover as a homeless surfer to infiltrate a deadly drug ring. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Seaside's rugged coastline, he struggles with his dual life, especially after meeting a beautiful doctor who turns his head and touches his heart. Troubled by the fine line between duty and authenticity, Logan fears sharing the truth of his identity will drive her away.

 Laken Hayes is a devoted doctor, fiercely protective of her teenage nephew, and determined to keep her hectic life in balance. But when a free-spirited surfer enters her world, nothing will ever be the same. Unexpectedly drawn to the charismatic man, Laken finds joy in his upbeat outlook on life while inadvertently becoming entangled in the web of Logan’s mission.

 As their connection deepens and mysteries unravel, Logan faces a heart-wrenching dilemma: will he continue the deception to protect his cover or reveal his true self to the woman who has captured his heart?

 Join Logan and Laken as they navigate a tide of secrets, false identities, and a wave of fast-moving danger in Sunrise Surf, a wholesome small-town romance that proves love may be the ultimate risk worth taking.

I hope you'll check out Logan and Laken's story, and have a beautiful August!

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup salted butter, softened

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 teaspoon baking soda

pinch of salt

2 1/2 cups flour

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Cream butter and sugars. Add egg and combine. Add vanilla. Stir baking soda and salt into flour then add a little at a time to dough. Stir in chocolate chips.

Use a cookie scoop, or a tablespoon to drop dough on parchment lined baking sheet.

Bake for 10 minutes until cookie are just set and barely starting to brown. Remove from oven and cool for a minute before transferring to a wire rack to cool.

Yield: 36 cookies

USA Today Bestselling Author Shanna Hatfield is a farm girl who loves to write character-driven romances with relatable heroes and heroines. Her sweet historical and contemporary romances are filled with sarcasm, humor, hope, and hunky heroes.

When Shanna isn’t dreaming up unforgettable characters, twisting plots, or covertly seeking dark, decadent chocolate, she hangs out with her beloved husband, Captain Cavedweller.

Sarah and the Horses of WWI

 

I have a new book releasing May 22. It takes place during and immediately following World War I. 

This story grabbed onto my heart and didn't let go even after I finished writing it. 

Part of the reason was due research the animals who were killed during the war. Approximately eight million horses and mules died in World War I. My brain doesn’t even want to wrap around that number.

World War I required hundreds of thousands of horses and mules to pull and pack artillery, supplies, communications, medical supplies and ambulances, and engineering services, as well as to carry the cavalry. When the war began in 1914, Europe did not have enough equines to support massive armies. France, England, and Germany looked to other nations to shore up their numbers of horses, mules, and donkeys.

British and French purchasing agents and their staff came to North America in search of horses. They selected animals based on size, breed, and type from specific regions, shipping them mainly from Newport News, Virginia, and Montreal, Canada. Ships were modified with stalls and fodder storage. By the fall of 1917, more than half a million American horses and mules had been sent to Europe for service.

When the United States entered the war in 1917, a single American Army division required approximately 7,700 horses. The AEF struggled to field adequate equine power in France. Between the U-boat threats, the urgent demand for soldiers and the supplies that had to go along with them, insufficient remounts, and an equine epidemic that came in 1917, it was hard to keep up with the demand. More than 1,000 horses were cut from divisional allotments with plans to cut an additional 2,800 more by motorizing divisional artillery regiments. To supplement the number of American horses, many wild horses were rounded up from southeastern Oregon, Nevada, and northeastern California.

One article reported an estimate of 500 American horses being shipped every day and a half in the last months of the war.

The animals faced the same hardships and challenges as the troops: miserable conditions, poor food, injuries, and poisonous gas. Because there weren’t enough ships available to haul everything the Americans needed, when a choice was made between supplies for humans or animals, the humans won, of course. But it meant that there were animals that starved to death. Animals that needed medical treatment didn’t receive it due to lack of equipment, staff, or animal hospitals.

The U.S. Army Veterinary Corps was established in June 1916 with the National Defense Act. At the beginning of World War I, there were approximately 70 veterinary officers and no enlisted men. As the war progressed, the numbers grew to 2,312 officers and 16,391 enlisted personnel. In August 1918, the American Veterinary Corps officers assumed key AEF staff and command posts in the Quartermaster Corps, combat divisions, and corps. However, there was a decided lack of American animal hospitals, veterinarians, and needed supplies.

Even before the war ended, efforts were underway to commemorate the sacrifices of the animals lost during the war. Today, there are monuments to the service of the horses, mules, and donkeys of World War I to honor the critical role they played in the success of the Allies.

I chose a Kiger Mustang for the hero in my story to bond with because the horse is unique to southeastern Oregon, and Keegan would have reminded him of home. On a fun side note, a Kiger mustang stallion named Spirit was the inspiration for the DreamWorks film “Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron.”

Keegan is a combination of several horses I read about that were incredibly brave and courageous during the war, like Warrior, a thoroughbred owned by British General Jack Seely. Warrior became one of the most famous horses from World War I.

If you have plenty of tissues on hand and don’t mind a heart-wrenching story, Steven Spielberg’s War Horse is a gripping and emotional movie about one horse’s journey through World War I and the young man who loves him.

Sarah releases May 22, but you can pre-order your copy today.

She desires his heart. 
He longs for her love.
Can they find common ground when he returns forever altered by the war.

In a world turned upside down by World War I, all Sarah Richards desires is to love Brett Rawlings and build a future together. After graduating high school a year early, she’s ready to dive into her dreams of college and a home filled with laughter and love. But one impulsive decision threatens all her aspirations—as well as her relationship with Brett.

As the war rages on and men head off to fight, sixteen-year-old Brett reluctantly follows his twin brother, Ben, sneaking off to France to join the American Expeditionary Forces. As the months pass, Ben thrives amidst the chaos of battle, while Brett finds himself haunted by the girl he left behind and the uncertainty of his own heart. When Ben reveals a life-altering secret, the bond between the brothers is shattered, forcing Brett to grapple with betrayal as he faces the brutal realities of war.

Brett returns home a changed man, burdened with memories too heavy to bear, yet yearning to mend the fractures of the past. Will Sarah still be waiting for him, or have time and truth forged an unbridgeable chasm between them?

Find out in this heartfelt historical romance that weaves a tale of hope, grace, forgiveness, and sweet, enduring love.

USA Today Bestselling Author Shanna Hatfield is a farm girl who loves to write character-driven romances with relatable heroes and heroines. Her sweet historical and contemporary romances are filled with sarcasm, humor, hope, and hunky heroes.

When Shanna isn’t dreaming up unforgettable characters, twisting plots, or covertly seeking dark, decadent chocolate, she hangs out with her beloved husband, Captain Cavedweller.

Shanna is a member of Western Writers of America and Women Writing the West.

Peachy Pockets

 

This time of year, when the produce is fresh and abundant, I love trying out new recipes. 

We've been enjoying in recent days fresh-from-the-tree peaches. The kind where the sweet juice drips off your chin and leaves your fingers blissfully sticky.

Here's a fun, easy recipe for peach hand pies, but you could use any type of fruit!

Peachy Pockets

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced

1 teaspoon corn starch

1/3 cup light brown sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 tube of crescent roll dough 
1 tablespoon butter (melted)
1/4 cup whipped cream cheese

1/2 cup cream cheese frosting

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Stir corn starch and sugar into peaches. Let "rest" about ten minutes.

Roll out crescent dough, pressing two triangles together to form a rectangle. Make sure to seal the perforated lines. Spread a layer of cream cheese over each piece then top with peaches. Fold the two ends up and over the pile of fruit. Carefully seal the edges by crimping them together then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil and lightly coated with nonstick cooking spray.

Bake for about 10 minutes, or until crescents are light brown. If, like me, you failed to seal all those perforated lines, you’ll see juice bubbling by this time, too.

Remove from the oven. Warm frosting in the microwave for about 10 seconds and drizzle over tops of peachy pockets.

Let cool about 15 minutes before serving.

Yield: 4 pockets

Enjoy!

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.

Shanna creates character-driven romances with realistic heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”

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.

http://shannahatfield.com

Pink Pistol Sisterhood

 

Eleven bestselling, award-winning authors have combined their talents and efforts to create a sweet romance series that honors the influence Annie Oakley had over women during her reign as “Little Sure Shot.”

 In the new series, entitled Pink Pistol Sisterhood, a one-of-a-kind pink-handled pistol is gifted to Annie Oakley. The pistol comes with a legend, one promising that whoever possesses it will find true love.

 Annie gives the gun to one of her students and sets the whimsical journey in motion that starts with In Her Sights by Christy Award-winner Karen Witemeyer. The pistol travels from woman to woman beginning in 1893 and wrapping up with a modern-day conclusion in USA Today Bestselling Author Jessie Gussman’s contemporary romance Pistol Perfect.

 The books will release on Amazon every ten days beginning March 30, with the final book releasing July 10. 

In Her Sights

Stained by his wastrel father's legacy, Jackson Spivey lives on the fringes of society. Townsfolk tolerate him since he keeps the local hotel supplied with fresh game, but mothers coach their daughters to avoid him. After tasting consistent rejection, Jackson spurns all attempts at courtship. The only things he can count on are his guns and his God.

 Tessa James has been secretly in love with Jackson for ages, but trying to gain his favor only pushes him further away. When she learns Annie Oakley is traveling through Texas, Tessa seeks lessons from the famed markswoman. If Jackson's life revolves around guns, taking up shooting might help her engage his interest. Too bad she can't hit the broad side of a barn.

 When Annie loans Tessa a custom pistol, however, things begin to change. The lore behind the mysterious weapon fosters hope that Tessa might finally hit the target of Jackson's heart. But when danger threatens, she might be forced to use the pistol for something other than finding love.

Order In Her Sights today!

  

My contribution to the series is Love on Target.

It releases April 10, but you can pre-order the order the book now. 

Love on Target

 Will romance hit its mark when true love is the target?

 Desperate for a fresh start, Rena Burke journeys from Texas to Oregon with only her father’s pistol and a plodding old mule for company. She takes a job working with explosives at a mine, spends her free time emulating her hero Annie Oakley, and secretly longs to be loved.

 Saddle maker Josh Gatlin has one purpose in life and that is his daughter. Gabi is his joy and the sunshine in his days. Then he meets a trouser-wearing woman living life on her own terms. Rena is nothing like his perception of what he wants in a wife and mother for his child, but she might just prove to be everything he needs.

 When tragedy strikes, will the two of them be able to release past wounds and embrace the possibilities tomorrow may bring?

 

Also, readers can download four free magazines that highlight the authors, feature excerpts, and include recipes, games and a map that shows the journey of the pistol.

The first issue of Pink Pistol Magazine is out now!

 

USA Today bestselling author Shanna Hatfield is a farm girl who loves to write. Her sweet historical and contemporary romances are filled with heart, humor, hope, and hunky heroes. When Shanna isn’t dreaming up unforgettable characters, twisting plots, or covertly seeking dark, decadent chocolate, she hangs out with her beloved husband, Captain Cavedweller.

Shanna loves to hear from readers. Follow her online at shannahatfield.com

National Drinking Straw Day

Today is National Drinking Straw Day, honoring the day back in the 1880s when Marvin Stone received the patent for the paper drinking straw.

It's fun to think about an old west cowboy swagging into a saloon and requesting a straw for his drink. 

In actuality, straws have been around a long, long time. The first known straws were created around 6,000 years ago and were used by the Sumerians for drinking beer. Apparently, there was a lot of solid sediment created during the fermenting process. A straw made of gold and inlaid with precious stones was found in a Sumerian tomb dated 3,000 B.C.

South American natives used straws to drink their famous maté tea. The straw, known as a bombilla, filters out the tea leaves in the drink. They were and still are typically made from metal alloys such as bronze – or precious even metals such as gold and silver.

By the arrival of the 19th century, straws were commonly made from wheat and rye. These straws left residue in the beverage along with a strange taste. And the straws became soggy quickly.

After using one of these straws, Marvin Chester Stone decided to create something better.

The American inventor, who's family created products like pen holders and pencil sharpeners, had the know-how and business acumen to manufacture paper straws on a large scale. 

On January 3, 1888, he received the patent for his paper drinking straw.

The straws were marketed directly to companies to sell in bulk. Made from Manila hemp originating in the Philippines and coated with wax, the straws were advertised as being sturdy, and they left behind no strange taste or residue. 

At the height of popularity, he was producing two million straws a day in his manufacturing plant. 

It was after World War II when straws became widespread. The materials to create them were inexpensive and the restaurant fare they accompanied was affordable and popular.

In 1930, Otto W. Dieffenbach developed and produced a cellophane straw. His company known as Glassips Inc. produced straws for restaurants and other products.

Straws were produced in fun shapes. One of the first mass-produced twisted straw was Sip-N-See invented by Milton Dinhofer. Dinhofer originally patented his straw in the shape of a scissor with two loops on top, but Macy's refused to carry the straw unless it had a character on it. They suggested Dinhofer make three straws, which were patented in 1950: a cowboy, a clown and an elephant. Each of the characters was attached to a looping soft polyethylene straw, and users were to sip from another detachable, small, straight, straw of acetate.

Inventors also created bendy straws, spoon straws, and crazy straws.

Today, plastic straws are on the decline due to environmental issues, and paper straws are once again used more often alongside reusable straws. 

Regardless of the straw used - wishing you a very Happy New Year!

USA Today bestselling author Shanna Hatfield is a farm girl who loves to write. Her sweet historical and contemporary romances are filled with sarcasm, humor, hope, and hunky heroes.

Shanna creates character-driven romances with realistic heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”

When Shanna isn’t dreaming up unforgettable characters, twisting plots, or covertly seeking dark, decadent chocolate, she hangs out with her beloved husband, Captain Cavedweller.

Connect with her online at shannahatfield.com

The Snowman's Sweetheart

 

If you're like me, sometimes there's just nothing  on a February day like a book full of sweet romance, a cup of hot tea, and a warm fire to make everything cozy and right in the world! 

My latest release, The Snowman's Sweetheart, is full of winter charm, laughter, and loads of sweet romance. 

In fact, I thought you might enjoy a little excerpt from the book today!

~*~

Sierra forced a smile, grabbed Jenn’s hand, and headed toward the door. “I’m starving. I think a big breakfast is in order. We’ll work it all off shopping.”

“Now you’re talking.” Jenn grinned as she grabbed her wallet and room key, and then the two of them stepped into the hall.

They both stopped at the sight of a man wearing a top hat and black tuxedo jacket with tails carrying a potted Christmas tree as he stepped off the elevator. He held a large gold gift bag decorated with white snowflakes in his other hand. When he looked at them, Sierra sucked in a gasp of surprise. The handsome guy looked exactly like the cowboy she’d met last night.

“Sierra?” he asked, his smile broadening as he walked over to them. “And Jenn. Hey! Fancy meeting you girls here.”

Jenn remained mute as she looked from Ky to Sierra, as though she struggled to make sense of their acquaintance.

Sierra wondered how Ky knew her friend’s name but couldn’t keep from grinning at him. “Good morning, Ky. What are you doing dressed like that, carrying a Christmas tree?”

“It’s a service I provide mostly during the holidays, but it extends through this weekend. I grow Christmas trees. Some hotel guests like to have a Christmas tree in their room, so I deliver them for a fee. They can choose between a live one in a custom-crafted wine barrel planter or a fresh-cut tree in one of my specialty stands. I provide lights and ornaments. They have options of elegant, whimsical, or traditional decorations.”

“That’s really neat,” Sierra said, thinking Kylan Snow looked even better in the broad light of day than he had last night. The tails and top hat sure didn’t hurt any either. He really was a handsome man, one with a warm smile and gray eyes that twinkled with mirth and life. “Might I assume you are making a delivery that veers on the elegant side?”

“Yep. For a traditional tree, I dress like a lumberjack, complete with a red and black buffalo plaid shirt. Whimsical, I put on elf shoes and a hat with pointy ears.”

“No way. That’s the one I’d choose just to see you wear that, Ky,” Jenn said, acting as though she and Ky were old friends.

How was that possible when they’d only arrived in town last night?

Will a whirlwind winter romance result in a forever love?

After a Christmas Eve catastrophe that left her heart encased in ice, Sierra Goodwin detests anything to do with winter and the holiday season. To take her mind off her troubles, her best friend talks her into a weekend spa getaway to a town she’s never heard of. Her bestie’s boyfriend tags along like a bumpy third wheel, and things go from bad to worse when they arrive in town to find a winter fest in full swing. Then Sierra runs into a handsome stranger, a man everyone calls Mr. Snowman, and discovers her heart might not be a frozen fortress after all.

Kylan Snow loves his life, his Christmas tree farm, and the town of Pinehill where he was raised. There’s nothing he enjoys more than a beautiful winter afternoon spent outside in the crisp, fresh air, or time spent with friends and family. When he unexpectedly encounters a dimple-cheeked woman in need of a little hope, he has no idea one weekend with her with completely alter his world.

Will their winter wishes for a forever sweetheart come true? Find out in this sweet romance brimming with laughter, snowmen, small-town charm, and love.

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Apple | Kobo | Smashwords

USA Today bestselling author Shanna Hatfield is a farm girl who loves to write. Her sweet historical and contemporary romances are filled with sarcasm, humor, hope, and hunky heroes. When Shanna isn’t dreaming up unforgettable characters, twisting plots, or covertly seeking dark, decadent chocolate, she hangs out with her beloved husband, Captain Cavedweller.

Shanna loves to hear from readers. Follow her online at:

ShannaHatfield | Facebook | Newsletter | BookBub | Pinterest | Goodreads

Wishing you a Happy Valentine's Day with your sweetheart!

Fall Into Romance

by Shanna Hatfield

I joined forces with nine other authors to create a fun boxed set that releases this Thursday. Together, we created a fictional town in Oregon called Romance and, let me tell you, it was a hoot! But I think the thing I enjoyed most about created this collection of sweet novellas is the awareness the project brings to animal adoptions.

All the stories in the book include one (if not both) of the main characters adopting a pet.

The story I wrote has the heroine adopted an entire family of pot-bellied pigs. But the hero is a cowboy who provides shelter for all the large animals until they can find homes (and some of the animals end up staying on his ranch permanently).

Before writing Blown Into Romance, I'd  never given much thought to what happened to bigger animals (like horses, donkeys, even cows) who end up without a home of their own. It's nice to know there are good-hearted people to take them in and give them a secure place to stay when they need it most.

And that big-hearted kindness fits right in with how cowboys are portrayed in my books.

Blown Into Romance

Artist Brooke Roberts spent her life without roots, wandering from town to town. When she seeks refuge from a freak storm in the town of Romance, she decides to stay and open a blown glass studio. Determined to immerse herself in the community, she adopts a family of pigs. Brooke is unprepared for the chaos and comfort they bring to her world, or the dashing cowboy who rescues her heart.  

Solid, dependable Blayne Grundy runs a busy ranch, volunteers on various committees, and takes in stray animals too large to stay at the local animal rescue. Then a chance encounter with a beautiful, beguiling woman leaves him so befuddled, he can barely remember his own name. His predictable organized life is about to be blown away by free-spirited Brooke.

A sweet, lighthearted novella, Blown Into Romance highlights the mighty power of love and letting go. 

Please join us for the Release Party on October 5!

https://www.facebook.com/events/508098616217528/

 Fall Into Romance

   Surround yourself in the romance of the autumn season with 10 heartwarming, sweet novellas from USA Today, national bestselling, and award-winning authors with a foreword by NY Times Bestselling Author Susan Hatler. 

   Each story takes you inside the heart of a small town—its people—and features adorable animal friends in need of a forever home.  

  Take a trip to Romance, Oregon, where falling in love has never been easier and happily-ever-after is guaranteed!

   Pre-Order now for just 99 cents!

Kindle:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0749T1Z89

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fall-into-romance-melanie-d-snitker/1126861809

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/fall-into-romance

iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/fall-into-romance/id1264676338

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=6mouDwAAQBAJ

***

Convinced everyone deserves a happy ending, USA Today bestselling author Shanna Hatfield is out to make it happen one story at a time. Her sweet historical and contemporary romances combine humor and hopelessly romantic moments with unforgettable characters.

When this farm girl isn’t writing or indulging in rich, decadent chocolate, Shanna hangs out with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller.

Shanna loves to hear from readers. Follow her online at:

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Mounted Patrol Officer

by Shanna Hatfield

Months ago, I was chatting with my beloved Captain Cavedweller, bouncing around ideas for a holiday novella I needed to write. I wanted the hero to be a cowboy, but he needed to work in a city. What job would bring a cowboy to downtown Portland where he'd run into the heroine?

Captain Cavedweller suggested the hero be a mounted police officer and I loved the idea.

I dug into my research on Mounted Patrols, particularly those in Portland.  In the Rose City, Mounted Patrol Units served as an effective deterrent to crime because of the high visibility of the mounted officers and their ability to quickly respond to problems in congested areas.

MPUs are used to enforce any number of laws and ordinances including everything from drug offenses and assaults to petty thefts and pedestrian violations. During the years of their peak staffing in the 1980s, the MPU made thirty percent of all the misdemeanor arrests in Portland.

Another perk of the MPU was the visibility in and interaction with the community. The equine officers created a sense of approachable accessibility in the public, generating rapport between the citizenry and the mounted officers.

Officers worked 10-hour days, four days a week and handled preparing and tacking up their four-legged partners.

The MPU used only geldings (of various breeds) and normally selected those in the eight to twelve years of age range. The horses had to meet weight and height specifications and pass a rigorous entry test.

Riders used Australian stock saddles with saddlebags. (And every time I see an Australian stock saddle my mind flashes to The Man From Snowy River scene when he's riding down the side of the mountain.)

Sadly, after I started writing my story, I discovered Portland disbanded their MPU  in July after decades of continuous and successful service.

In spite of that unexpected news, I left my hero as a Mounted Patrol Officer. The officers (both human and animal) work so hard to keep the peace, keep people safe, and extend a gentle hand of friendship to the area they serve. They have my admiration and appreciation for their service.

Saving Mistletoe releases Sept. 26 as part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses 4 boxed set of 14 new heartwarming and wholesome romances.

Hotshot attorney Ellen Meade seems to have it all: a powerful position with her firm, a posh downtown apartment, and a bright future ahead of her. But for Ellen, the future grows dimmer with each passing day. Her apartment is lonely without her best friend, and the demands of her job are slowly killing her soul. She’s simply surviving until she bumps into a police officer who changes everything.

Burke Tipton loves his job as a Mounted Patrol Officer in downtown Portland.  The life he’s built away from his family’s ranch is simple and uncomplicated. At least it was until a beautiful woman bumps into him and turns his world upside down.

Add in Burke’s partner Sugar Bear, Lovey the dog, and a child named Mistletoe in need of a Christmas miracle, and you get a heartwarming, holiday romance.

Here's a little excerpt from the story:

In the distance, he could see two men arguing and gave Bear a little pressure from his knees, urging him forward. Before he could reach them, a woman darted around the corner of a building and slammed into his leg. The force knocked her backward and she fell to the sidewalk. The files she carried flapped open and papers scattered in the breeze like jumbo-sized snowflakes.

Burke jumped out of the saddle and knelt beside her as she looked at him with a dazed expression. He held back a groan as recognition set in. The last thing he needed was to have the snippy, beautiful attorney who willingly defended crooks bump into him, again.

What was it with her blindly walking into him and Bear? Maybe the woman needed glasses, although he’d hate to see anything cover up those mesmerizing whiskey-colored eyes.

Small of stature, it wasn’t any wonder she’d landed on her backside as hard as she hit his leg. The tidy knot of hair pinned up on her head listed to one side, giving her a comical appearance. He tamped down his urge to laugh and gave her a questioning glance.

 “Are you hurt, miss?” he asked, keeping his voice low and soothing.

“I… I don’t think so.” All at once, she snapped out of her trance and noticed the papers from her files floating all around them. “Oh, my files!” she gasped, struggling to rise.

Burke took her hand in his and stood, pulling her upright. Together, they quickly gathered the papers and she stuffed them back into a folder.

He offered her a stern glare as he handed her the last few wayward sheets. “I ought to write you a ticket, Miss Meade. If you don’t start paying attention to where you’re going, you could really hurt yourself or someone else.”

Surprised at his gruff tone and sharp words, she lifted a curious gaze to his. “What, exactly, would you write on the ticket, Officer Tipton?”

The fact she recalled his name pleased him more than it should have. He mustered a fierce scowl, but then he looked into her face. Dang, she sure had gorgeous eyes. And her skin appeared silky smooth. Then there were those soft pink lips just begging for a kiss.

Man, he needed to get his head on straight, at least where this woman was concerned. “You’re a public menace. This is the second time you’ve run into me. I could haul you in for assaulting not one but two officers if I wanted to,” he warned. “Do you make it a habit of plowing into people, objects, and animals?”

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 After spending her formative years on a farm in Eastern Oregon, hopeless romantic Shanna Hatfield turns her rural experiences into sweet historical and contemporary romances filled with sarcasm, humor, and hunky heroes.

Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”

When this USA Today bestselling author isn’t writing or covertly hiding decadent chocolate from the other occupants of her home, Shanna hangs out with her beloved husband, Captain Cavedweller.

Shanna loves to hear from readers. Follow her online at:

ShannaHatfield | Facebook | Newsletter | BookBub | Pinterest