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.         

 ‘Thank you for meeting with me today, Ms. Bennett.’

‘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?’

 ‘A total mess.’ She emits a small laugh. ‘Anxiety-ridden, spoiled, stubborn, demanding to a fault… Sometimes, I can’t believe he willingly puts up with all of that, but he does. And I love him more than words can say.’    

‘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.’ 

 ‘Where do you see yourself in 5 years?’

‘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.

 ‘I can positively say I and my readers wish you and Zach all the best. The way you glow when talking about him, I’m certain you’ll have that home with him in less than five years.’

 Blushing, she ducks her head. ‘Thank you.’

‘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!’

 www.amazon.com/dp/B0FG48TFYH

 

 

Character Interview with Zach Maldonado ~ Julie Lence

 

Nothing says springtime like horses playfully chasing each other around a corral. I’m at Bennett Ranch this morning asking Zach Maldonado some of the same questions I asked Barbie Bennett last month. A former bull rider on the rodeo circuit, Zach now works the Bennett Family Ranch. Standing outside the corral with him, it’s easy to understand why Barbie is completely enamored with his dark hair and broad shoulders.

‘Thank you for talking with me today, Zach. What can you tell my readers about you?’

‘Ain’t much to tell. I grew up in San Diego. Dad worked a ranch outside the city. He had me work alongside him and the other cowboys every summer of my teen years, to keep me off the streets. He cracks a grin. Probably the best thing he ever did. That grin widens. Anyway, I learned to rope and ride, and when I turned 16, he took me to the rodeo. Bull riding was my favorite event and it stuck with me. I spent the rest of that summer learning to stay on the back of one for eight seconds. Good thing. Those lessons helped me take care of Mom after Dad passed away.’

 ‘I’m sorry for your loss.’

He nods.

‘How long were you part of the rodeo circuit before you met Barbie?’

‘A handful of years. I always liked her music. Never thought I’d meet her.’  He wipes a hand over his jaw. ‘Was nothing but dumb luck that day I happened upon her. I didn’t even know it was her. Just saw a guy grab a girl and stepped in to help her.  If she hadn’t sent her bodyguard to find me later that afternoon, that woulda been my only time seeing her face-to-face.’

‘What did you think that night when you had supper with her?’

‘Lots of things.’ He hooks his booted foot on the bottom rail, stares at the horses on the opposite side of the corral. ‘I always thought she was pretty, but up close, she was more than pretty. She was drop-dead gorgeous; the kind of face guys dream about.’ He pauses. ‘But, she was more than that. She was sweet… kind… and thanked over and over for helping her. All the time she was talking, I wanted to kiss her, but didn’t dare.’       

‘Why not?’

‘Her crew and bodyguard were lollygagging around outside the tour bus; some bigger than me. Had a feeling if I tried, they wouldn’t hesitate to trounce me.’

“Did Barbie want you to kiss her?’

He shrugs. ‘Too scared to ask. I mean… I was with Barbie Bennett. Her face was on the cover of every magazine in the country… six brothers, cars, homes, money, thousands of screaming fans chasing after her…I was just a bull rider who helped her. I didn’t find out until months later that she would’ve let me kiss her.’  

‘You and she have been together for a long time. How would you describe you relationship?’

‘Barbie’s the best thing to have happened to me. I like to think she feels the same about me.’ He pauses again. ‘She stood beside me when that bull threw me and busted my knee, made sure I had the best doctors, and then badgered the heck outta her brother to give me a job. When she was away on summer tours, she called me every night. I woulda called her, but she wasn’t always back on the tour bus the same time each night. We learned to trust each other, to ignore the gossip magazines… I tell her every day how much I love her. She swears the same to me, and that’s all I need, ‘cause deep down, I know she isn’t leaving me for anyone else.’  

‘How would you describe Barbie?’

‘A sweet, kind, fun, loyal, bossy when it comes to her career, anxiety-riddled woman I’d give my life for.’ 

 ‘How would she describe you?’

 He thinks a moment, cracks another grin. ‘She says she likes my muscles, so I have that going for me.’ He faces me. ‘I think she thinks I’m honest. Someone who would never hurt her.’

‘Between working the ranch and trying to carve out a life with Barbie, how do you relax?’

 ‘Friday nights on the couch with her at my side. Don’t know how she does it, but she brings a calm to me that I’ve never experienced.’

 ‘Where do you see yourself five years from now?’

 ‘With her, in a home of our own on. If not on this ranch, then somewhere close. Could be a condo or a tent, as long as she’s with me, I don’t care.’

 And that, readers, is true love. To learn more about Zach and Barbie, pop on over to Amazon and grab a copy of The Pop Star Loves Her Cowboy. You’ll thank me!  

 www.amazon.com/dp/B0FG48TFYH

 

Interview with Mischief and Hunter: Meet the Stars of "Forbidden Paths" ~ Ruthie L Manier

Interview with Mischief and Hunter: Meet the Stars of "Forbidden Paths"

A Cowboy Kisses Exclusive with the Clayton Boys

Introduction

Welcome to this month's Cowboy Kisses blog! I'm thrilled to bring you a special feature: an exclusive interview with Mischief and Hunter, the unforgettable heroes from my published book, Forbidden Paths, the first installment in my series, The Clayton Boys. As I prepare to release the second book, I want to introduce new readers—and reacquaint loyal fans—with these leading characters whose story has captured so many hearts.

Getting to Know Mischief and Hunter

If you've journeyed with me through Forbidden Paths, you've already come to know Mischief's daring spirit and Hunter's steadfast loyalty. For those just joining us, Mischief is the wild-hearted cowgirl whose reputation precedes her, while Hunter is the quiet strength anchoring the Clayton ranch. Their paths cross in unexpected ways, turning the dusty trails of the Old West into a landscape of forbidden choices and passionate hopes.

Author’s Interview with Mischief and Hunter

Q1: Mischief, can you tell our readers a little about yourself?

Mischief: Sure thing! Folks call me Mischief for a reason—I’ve never been one to follow rules just because they’re there. Life on the Clayton ranch suits me; the wide-open spaces and the thrill of taming wild horses keep my restless soul busy. I may get into trouble now and then, but my loyalty to my chosen family runs deep.

Q2: Hunter, what is your role on the ranch, and how would you describe your relationship with Mischief?

Hunter: I’m the foreman at Clayton Ranch. My job is to keep things running smooth, whether that means settling disputes or making sure we get the harvest in on time. Mischief and I? We’re as different as night and day, but we’ve learned to rely on each other. She has got a way of seeing things I sometimes miss, and I try to keep her grounded.

Q3: What makes the path you both travel in the book "forbidden"?

Mischief: There are rules in this town—written and unwritten. Sometimes, love and loyalty mean breaking those rules, even if it puts you at odds with everyone else. Hunter and I had to choose between what was expected and what felt right in our hearts.

Hunter: It’s not easy, going against the grain. We faced threats, misunderstandings, even danger. But the bonds we formed along the way are stronger than any fence or boundary.

Q4: What do you hope readers take away from your story?

Mischief: I hope folks see that courage isn’t just about-facing enemies—it’s about being true to yourself, even when the world says you’re wrong.

Hunter: And that sometimes family is chosen, not born. The people who stand with you in hard times matter most.

From "Forbidden Paths" to What's Next

As the story of Mischief and Hunter continues, readers can expect even deeper challenges and more unexpected turns on the trail. Book two in The Clayton Boys series will introduce new faces, old secrets, and the kind of high-stakes drama that fans of Western romance love.

Thank you for joining this special interview! If you haven’t yet read Forbidden Paths, now is the perfect time—it’s the gateway to a world of adventure, loyalty, and love in the heart of the American West. Stay tuned for more updates on the next book in the series!

Connect with the Author

I always love hearing from my readers. Share your thoughts, questions, or favorite moments from Forbidden Paths in the comments below or connect with me on social media. Until next time, happy reading and may the trail ahead be filled with promise!

 

Character Interview with Chip Colucci ~ Julie Lence

 

Last month, I sat down for a chat with Bailey Bennett from The Singer Ropes A Cowboy. This month, I’m chatting with her hero, Chip Colucci. A Belmont Park stable hand turned ranch hand on his way to becoming a veterinarian, I’m meeting up with Chip at a coffee shop across from Ringo’s Casino.

Good afternoon, Chip. Thank you for meeting with me today. Tell my readers a little about yourself.

“Afternoon”, he responds, removing his hat and setting it on the seat beside him. Before he can say anything else, the waitress appears to take our drink orders. He orders a coffee and I’m having an iced tea.

“There’s not much to tell. I grew up in Queens, New York. My family still lives in the same neighborhood, except for my older brother. He lives in Brooklyn. Pops busted his leg last year, but thanks to Bailey and the therapist she hired, he’s getting around much better. His old foreman might even let him back on the job site. 

And your mother? I ask.

“She went back to her job at the bank.” He pauses as the waitress sets down our drinks. “Thank you.” He stirs a bit of milk into his drink. “Mom still cooks big meals. She has to. My brother, Dominic, eats enough for two people. Maybe even three.”       

Tell me about Bailey. What did you think the 1^st time you met her? She’s prettier in person than in the pictures in the gossip magazines. People at the track leave them lying around. I look”. He shrugs.  

What was your 2^nd thought? In the getup she was wearing, she really didn’t belong in a barn. But then, she’s Bailey Bennett, country music’s sweetheart. She does whatever she wants, without thought for someone else. Sam as the she-devils at the club. He scowls. Least the debutantes never shunned Pops, like Bailey did. Hated the disappointment on his face when her goons turned him away from meeting her.    

Sounds like she wasn’t your favorite person.

“At that time, she wasn’t. But now…” A grand smile lights up his features. “She’s the best thing to ever happen to me.”    

What do you like most about Bailey?  She’s sweet, thoughtful, caring. She adores her family, including her brothers, even though they shun her.  She has a twin, Barbie. Those two are thick-as-thieves. And she loves me. Goes outta her way every day to prove it, not that I’m blind and can’t see.  

How would you describe Bailey? She’s smart when it comes to her career, and ruthless. Some say she’s snotty and demanding, but she doesn’t have time to carry on a conversation with everyone she meets. She’s loyal to her fans, tries her best to keep them happy, and she guards her feelings. Most won’t notice when something’s digging at her, but Barbie does. So do I.     

How would Bailey describe you? Tall, sometimes moody, someone who has a soft spot for animals and wants to help them any way he can. Someone who puts his family before himself. Someone who loves her and would do anything for her. The  man she can always depend upon and trust to never hurt her.     

How do you relax? Bailey has a suite at the family’s casino in Reno. She and I sneak away from her singing and my ranching duties as often as we can to enjoy a quiet night listening to music or watching a movie on the television. We did spend the new year in Italy. Maybe one day we can go back.  

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Married to Bailey, living in our own home on her family’s ranch. Maybe a kid or two. Definitely working in my own veterinary clinic and watching her sing on stage every chance I get. Did I tell you she has the sweetest voice… Pride shines in his eyes.

Thank you for chatting with me, Chip. My readers thank you, too, and know to pick up a copy or The Singer Ropes A Cowboy to learn more about you and Bailey.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CW1J88PH

      

Character Interview with Bailey Bennett ~ Julie Lence

Greetings, readers. I’m hanging out backstage at Ringo’s Casino with country music’s sweetheart, Bailey Bennett. She’s just finished the day’s rehearsals for her summer tour and has agreed to chat with me before a costume fitting. Following her into her dressing room, I expected to find numerous photos of Bailey hanging on the walls and many of her awards littering tables. But such is not the case. The only photograph on the cream-colored walls is a painting of cowboys galloping across a field, and except for a glass of tea, the two small tables flanking the plush sofa are bare. A wardrobe on wheels hugs the wall directly across from the sofa, the hangars holding various western shirts and denims. A makeup chair faces the lighted mirror on the back wall, the shelves below the mirror housing an array of makeup, brushes, and hair products. Bailey gestures for me to take a seat on the sofa, then sits next to me.           

Thank you for meeting with me this afternoon, Bailey. My readers are eager to know you better. “My pleasure.” She gestures to the small refrigerator in the front corner. “Would you like something to drink? I have iced tea or soda.”

 I decline the offer and get right to the questions.  

Tell us a bit about The Singer Ropes A Cowboy.  The Singer Ropes A Cowboy is the tale of how Chip and I met. He’s my better half, and my favorite person in the entire world. My twin sister, Barbie, is a close second. Chip and I met last fall in New York City. Barbie and I were in Manhattan to buy Bella Cosmetics, something she’s wanted for a long time. I was also in the city to look over a racehorse at Belmont Park. My sister-in-law said the filly loathed racing and was in need of a good home. Chip was working Belmont that day I went to see Potent Polly, and by his side was a mangy looking pinto. He explained someone had abused her and he was nursing her back to health. He also was quick to inform me Polly was enamored with the pinto and wouldn’t leave her side, hence if I purchased Polly and brought to the family ranch in Reno, the pinto would come, too.

In my initial meeting Chip, it was easy to see he had a way with horses. The abused pinto adored him and Polly did, too. To make the acclimation from Belmont to Reno as easy as possible for the horses, I hired Chip to come with us. Not only did I find his softness for the pair endearing, his dark eyes and muscles were irresistible. Looking back on those few days in the city, I have to say that even though Chip and I started off on the wrong foot, asking him to come to Reno with me was the best decision I’ve ever made. Life without him isn’t worth living.        

What did you think the 1^st time you saw Chip?  That morning at Belmont, she begins, running her fingers through her long dark hair, I was instantly attracted to his rugged handsomeness and his muscles. But then, he spoke, and something in his tone suggested he knew me… that he believed some or all of the gossip surrounding me. I tried to put him at ease, get him to smile, but he rebuked my efforts and made it clear there was nothing I could do or say to change his opinion of me. Funny thing is, even when he was glaring at me, I couldn’t seem to stop my stomach from somersaulting.    

What was your 2^nd thought?  That I should keep my distance, but then, keeping the two horses together was a concern, and with the pinto only trusting Chip, I thought it best to ask him to hire on with me… until I ran into him at a nightclub. His sneer for me and the cameras that night was worse than at the track, and something inside was sure him and I working together was most definitely not a good idea. I said my goodbyes and promised myself to steer clear of him. But those dark eyes… and those muscles…  (Bailey inhales sharply.)

Anyway, Chip needed the job I offered that night at club, to help his family, and wormed his way into my good graces. I still had reservations, but as Barbie was quick to point out, my attraction for Chip wasn’t going to fade any time soon, that he was the 1^st man I took an interest in since breaking off with John. She urged me to bring him to Reno, to give him a chance to prove there was more to him than brawn and a never-ending glare. And if not, I could always send him back to New York. I took her advice, and never regretted it.  

What do you like most about Chip? His honesty. His dedication to his family, and to me. Whether I’m at his side or thousands of miles away, I know he loves me. I feel his commitment to me deep in my bones.     

How would you describe Chip? Kind, caring, trustworthy. Patient with the world I live in. Protective, hard-working; a man who was born to take care of animals.       

How would Chip describe you? Hmmm… (She pauses for a sip of tea. From the glass I noticed on the table upon entering the room.)  Full of anxiety… impatient… unease. I think he understands it took many years for me realize the type of fame I have, to learn how to live within the realm of the entertainment industry while keeping as much of my personal life as I can out of the tabloids. I’m sure he would be quick to say I’m also dedicated to my family and my horses, but above all, he would say I love him with everything that I am.    

What is your biggest fear? At the moment, life is good. Beyond anything I imagined my teenage years. I have money, and a comfortable home. If I woke up tomorrow and found my voice was gone, I’d wouldn’t care, because I know in my heart that no matter what the future brings, Chip will always love me.    

How do you relax? I take a few weeks off in the fall from singing to unwind, usually at Bennett Ranch. Just recently, Chip and I vacationed in Italy over the new year. I’m thinking him and I in Hawaii to usher in the next new year.   

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Well… she sinks her teeth into her bottom lip for a long moment. You can’t tell Chip, but I see him and me married and living in our own home somewhere on Bennett Ranch. I’m still turning out albums and touring during the summer months. Our son accompanies me on the tour bus so Chip can finish his schooling while tackling the ins and outs of opening his own veterinary office.  

Thank you for talking with me this afternoon, Bailey. I’m sure my readers have a better understanding of who you are and look forward to reading your story.

The Singer Ropes A Cowboy is available through Amazon in both E-book and paperback. 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CW1J88PH 

 

  

Interview with Creel Weston ~ Julie Lence

Last month I sat down and talked with Racine Weston from No Luck At All. This month, I’m talking with her husband, and hero, Creel Weston, in the privacy of his home.   

Hello, Creel. Thank you for chatting with me today. What did can you tell us about Racine? What did you think when you 1^st met her?

Racine’s father is a doctor, and my professor. Every year he has a fancy supper for his interns. I honestly didn’t want to attend, thought to pick up more work at the docks. But Dr. Somerfield insisted I join him and the other interns, so I went… and I thank God that I did. Racine was sitting beside her mother staring at the floor. Her father introduced us and when she lifted her chin, I thought I was gonna pass out. With her auburn hair and pale blue eyes, she was the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.

What was your 2^nd thought?

That I wasn’t leaving Boston without her. Somehow, some way, she was going to marry me.

We know you and she wed before you left Boston, but Racine said you changed the night of your wedding. Why?

Before I proposed to Racine, her father blackmailed me. He said if I didn’t marry her, I wouldn’t graduate. At the time, he didn’t know I was already looking at rings and planning to propose to Racine. She made my blood pound in ways no woman ever had, but Somerfield wouldn’t give me a chance to explain. He said Racine and I were to remain in Boston, where I’d go into practice with him and live in some grand house, that this was what Racine wanted.  All this time I thought her sweet and innocent, not selfish and conniving.

I married her hoping to find some common ground with her, because fool that I am, I still loved her. Even thought that maybe in time she’d forget her spoiled ways and love me for who I am and not for who she wanted me to be, but when I intercepted her return ticket to Boston, I was sure she’d never warm up to my modest home on a ranch, or support the clinic I planned to open. The only way to find out for sure was to ask her.

Did you?

I did.

What did she say?

(Grinning) You’ll have to read the story to find out…

No Luck At All is available only through Amazon and can be found here:

www.amazon.com/dp/B0064R6NVI

Don’t forget to check these other stories in the Weston Family Series, all sold through Amazon.

Luck of the Draw

Lady Luck

Bring Me Luck 

Interview with Racine Weston ~ Julie Lence

 

It’s always fun (and sometimes a relief) when the characters in the book you’re writing talk to you. I’ve had secondary characters blurt out their name, and main characters take me in directions I never imagined, but never has a character talked to me as much as Racine Weston. Racine is the heroine in No Luck At All. Originally, I had written the story more toward her hero’s POV. (That would be Creel Weston.) But the 2^nd go-around, Racine took over the story and wouldn’t let go. Right from the beginning, she had so much heartache built up inside her and needed for me to not only help her find the strength to confide in Creel, but to help her find a path to peace.  

Here, Racine sits down with me on a pretty spring afternoon to answer some of my questions.       

Thank you for meeting with me, Racine. What can you tell me about Creel?  What did you think the 1^st time you saw him?

Papa is a well-known doctor in Boston. He’s also a teacher. Every year he hosts a dinner party for his interns, and every year I beg off attending, but Papa insists I join the festivities. I don’t know why. Mama says my scars are hideous and scare off every man I meet. I can’t argue that, because she’s right, so I arrive at the party more than fashionably late and find a chair in the corner where I can keep to myself. It’s much easier this way. Papa’s interns don’t have to feign an interest in me, and I don’t have to pretend they overlook my appearance. But this year, Papa is guiding a man toward me. And not just any man. He’s tall, heavily muscled, and just about the handsomest man in all of Boston, maybe the entire world. He smiles at me when Papa makes introductions, and asks for a dance. Suddenly, my throat is dry… and my stomach is somersaulting in a most peculiar way.           

What was your 2^nd thought?

That Papa should examine me, because I must have caught an illness. Never have I felt this way. Then again, never have I seen eyes that pretty on a man. Or thrilled to the sound of a deep voice. But as Creel waltzed us around Mama’s ballroom, his heated gaze bore into me, and I changed my mind about Papa examining me. Papa should examine Creel, for surely he was the one with poor eye sight and feeling ill.     

How did Creel convince you he wasn’t ill?  

He wrangled for the seat beside me at supper and engaged me in conversation on a variety of subjects. When someone thought to interrupt, he glowered at them, and then returned his attention to me. At the end of the evening, he asked Papa’s permission to call upon me tomorrow morning. Papa approved, and the next day, Creel whisked me away in a carriage for a picnic in the park. After that, when he wasn’t in class or studying or working his job at the docks, he was with me… Hideous me! We went everywhere together; the theater, restaurants, the park again. Always he held my hand and treated me like a lady. And then, he proposed. I felt as though I was walking on air, but our wedding night, he changed. And not for the better. Deep down I feared I had made a grave mistake, that I shouldn’t accompany him to his home in Colorado. But, with Mama loathing me and shooing me out the door faster than one can blink an eye, I wasn’t sure if I should trust my heart or trust what I know.           

What did you do?

I followed my heart and boarded the train with Creel, hoping he would forget his disdain with me and love me again. Some days he was sweet and kind. Other days he barely tolerated me. His was definitely a Jekyll-Hyde personality, but at the Denver hotel, he accused me of blackmailing him into marrying me and scheming my way back to Boston. Of course, he was wrong, but something inside hinted didn’t believe me, that was better for him and I to part ways in Denver than later when we were both beyond miserable.      

Did you tell him you loved him?

Or course. That’s why I offered to set him free, so he’d have a life of happiness. Not a life of misery. 

How did he react? 

In a manner I never would’ve likened to him. 

To find out exactly what Creel did, and if Racine finds the peace she longs for, grab a copy of their story and start reading today. Available only at Amazon.

www.amazon.com/dp/B0064R6NVI

 

Introducing Sam Johnson from The Johnsons of Junova ~ Raine Rochelle

Greetings!  

The second book in The Johnsons of Junova series, Heartbeat, is still a work in progress, but I thought it would be a good time to meet the main character, Sam Johnson. To that end, I’ve had a brief interview with him to give you an idea of the sort of guy he really is:

For such a handsome cowboy, Sam doesn’t come across as the most confident guy in the coffee house. He gives me a shy—but totally breathtaking—grin as he nears the table where I’m enjoying a cup of tea. I watch him pick up a shawl that has fallen from an elderly lady’s chair, and his smile isn’t lost on her as he hands it to her. Arriving at our table, he removes his hat before reaching out to shake my hand. His manners are impeccable, and I hide a gasp as he takes the chair opposite me.

“I hope I haven’t kept you waiting,” he says, with sincerity in his gorgeous eyes.

I assure him that he hasn’t, and the waitress brings him a coffee before I start with the questions.

So, you met Lydia at the hospital where your father was being treated following his heart attack. Was she a patient at the time?

He nods, a dreamy look emanating from his whole face. “Yes. She has arrhythmia, which means that her heart doesn’t keep the usual, steady rhythm. At the time she’d just been helping her family move house to Brightside and may have been overdoing things a little. Her heart was beating too fast so she’d been taken in while they monitored it and observed her.” With a little laugh he adds, “Though they didn’t observe her all that well as she kept sneaking off the ward whenever she wasn’t wired up to machinery. She said she got bored and went off to explore the rest of the hospital.”

What first attracted her to you?

He laughs, looking a little sheepish. “She’s very beautiful. But I was really taken by the way she was so upbeat about everything. So positive. We got talking and she really made me feel quite optimistic about my dad, who’d had a recent heart attack, as you probably know. She even made me laugh at times when I thought my whole world was about to come crashing down on me. Dad didn’t make a lot of progress at first, and the family were all real concerned about whether he’d pull through.”

How did Lydia cope with her own health situation?

Sam gives me an incredulous look. “The same way she copes with everything—with positivity. She’s lived with her condition all her life, but it’s just recently that it’s started to become a problem. She knows her family worry about her, but she wishes they wouldn’t fret so much. Lydia’s a sensible girl; she takes her meds regularly and tries to live a healthy lifestyle. The last thing she wants is to be treated any different from anyone else. She doesn’t see arrhythmia as an illness or anything, it’s just something she lives with.” He smiles. “She’s amazing.”

Is she ‘the one’?

He beams. “You’ll have to find that out for yourself. Love never runs smoothly, but I will say that’s she’s an incredible and very understanding woman. You can’t help but love her.”

 

Looks like we’ll have to wait for the release of Heartbeat to find out more, but I hope this gives a little insight into the guy himself. I’ll let you know as soon as I have a launch date organised.

Stay safe and well until next time,

Raine

The Johnsons of Junova is a continuation of The Billionaires of Brightside Ranch that can also be read as a standalone series.

Book 1 in the Series, Heartstrings is available HERE.

Don’t forget that The Billionaires of Brightside Ranch series is currently FREE in Kindle Unlimited

Character Interview with Camille Prescott ~ Julie Lence

 

Last month our interviewer sat down with Burke Montgomery from All I Want for Christmas Is You. This month our interviewer is sitting down with Burke’s heroine, Camille Prescott. She’s lived on a farm her entire life with her parents and older sister. Her father took ill not too long ago and passed, leaving Camille, her mother and sister to take over his chores and keep the farm going. Even before losing her father, Camille knew she never wanted to labor in the fields or chop wood. Watching her sister don a man’s coat and trousers and struggle to keep up with their father’s chores solidified her determination to find a man wealthy enough to ensure the future she wanted. But, as Camille and I settle around the table in her kitchen, a pot of tea and a plate of cookies before us, you’re about to discover that the best laid plans are always susceptible to change.

 

Thank you for meeting with me, Camille. What can you tell me about Burke Montgomery? What did you think the 1^st time you saw him? The first time he came to the farm was with Landry, to help Slade put a new roof on the barn. Slade’s an outlaw and married to my sister. Landry is Slade’s brother. He’s also an outlaw and owns the saloon in Jackson Creek. Burke is his bartender. I only caught a glimpse of Burke that morning as he and Landry rode across the front yard toward the barn. Ma snuck up behind me and yanked me away from the window, bade to mop the floors. From what I remember, Burke sat upright in the saddle and didn’t wear a hat.   

What was your 2^nd thought? I really don’t know. I guess I thought him handsome enough, (she answers, adding a dollop of cream to her tea.) His shoulders are a lot broader than Doug McCallister. Doug is my sister’s ex-fiancé and wealthy. He had enough men working on his ranch to guarantee I’d never work in the fields. He seemed to like the way I brushed up against; I was sure he’d propose marriage to me before the end of the year. (She wrinkles her nose.) Burke has the nicest eyes, but he didn’t have the wealth to keep me from blistering my hands the way my sister blistered hers when she took over Pa’s chores… before Slade came along and took control of the farm.

How did you go from having an interest in Doug McCallister to having an interest in Burke? Doug and his father fell on hard times and moved away. Before that, Ma insisted on several occasions that Burke join us for the evening meal. He was quiet those nights and had impeccable manners. (She pushes the plate of ginger cookies toward me. ) Have one.

I can’t resist; fresh from the oven, they smell heavenly. Thank you. (I bite into the cookie. Mmmm… they taste every bit as heavenly as they smell.)  So, it was during one of those meals that you began to have feelings for Burke?  Good heavens, no.  His chiseled cheeks may have been enticing, but he was still Landry’s bartender, and bartender’s don’t make a lot of money. (She breaks off a bite of cookie.) Besides, it was right before Doug moved away that Glen Stafford came to Jackson Creek to help his uncle enlarge the Stafford property. Glen has pretty eyes, and gossip around the church yard hinted he had just enough wealth to afford me the lifestyle I wanted. Then Sarah Jane stole him from me. (Camille pouts.) I was heartbroken. (And brightens.) But then, Burke happened along and that’s when I had a change of heart regarding him and his work.

What do you like most about Burke? Where do I start? (She bites down on her fingernail for a moment.) He’s loyal, kind, caring. He loves me, and when he holds me in his arms—arms that are more sinewy than any man I know—I feel cherished and safe, happier than I’ve ever been.  He’s a good man, and I’m a lucky girl.

How would Burke describe you? Smug, sassy, bold… He likes that about me. (She smiles fondly.) He’d also say I’m a good cook, the prettiest girl in all of Texas, and the only girl he’s ever loved.

And you love him? More than anything in the world. 

To find out just what caused Camille to have a change of heart and determine she loves Burke, grab a copy of their Christmas story and read today. Available only at Amazon.

www.amazon.com/dp/B0BDGFKF7N

 

    

Character Interview with Burke Montgomery ~ Julie Lence

 October 2022 saw the release of my short Christmas story, All I Want for Christmas Is You, featuring Burke Montgomery and Camille Prescott from the Jackson Creek Series. Burke is the bartender at Landries and has had a soft spot for Camille ever since he arrived in Jackson Creek. Trouble is she wants someone else, someone he deems isn’t the right man for her. Our interviewer caught up with Burke at Landries to afford you the opportunity to get to know him better. As usual, Burke is presiding over the saloon from behind the bar, a soiled cloth in his hand as he rubs at an imaginary spot on the polished wood.

 

Thanks for meeting with me, Burke. What can you tell me about Camille Prescott? What did you think the 1^st time you saw her?  Landry—he’s the owner of Landries—and me had just come to town.  Houston didn’t hold our interest anymore, even with Landry owning a saloon there, so he sold the place and we headed west. We only stopped in Jackson Creek for food and a night’s sleep in a real bed. But Landry couldn’t sleep after we ate. He went for a drink and a game of stud. Next morning I found him where I’m standing now, learned he won this here watering hole over the last hand, same as he did the saloon in Houston, and was laying down the rules to the girlies that came with the place… rather, they was laying down the rules to him. There was three of ‘em. Patsy and Myrna are still here. Tawny married Landry’s brother and they moved to a ranch outside of town. Anyway,  Landry and me been friends since our days on the riverboat. I ran the saloon for him in Houston and figured I'd do the same with this one, only the kitchen was filthy. I went to the mercantile for supplies and that’s when I saw Camille. She was standing outside the mercantile’s door batting her eyelashes at some boy. Prettiest little thing I ever did see… and bold. (Burke pauses from rubbing at the wood to crack a fond grin.) Females like her… young, innocent… usually don’t flirt with a boy in broad daylight for the whole town to see for fear their ma will learn of their doings and take a paddle to their backside. (Burke’s grin widens.) But not Camille. She just kept on flirting with the boy. 

What was your 2^nd thought? That she should forget the boy and flirt with me. Her soft curves would fit perfect against me, but I knew she wouldn’t do as I wanted. I’m older than her… not much to look at… rough around the edges… I have a reputation, not quite as bad as Landry’s, but one that a proper girl such as her wouldn’t welcome. 

Do you think you fell in love with her at first sight? (Burke shrugs.) Don’t know.  Maybe. (He rubs at the imaginary spot on the bar again.)  She did set my heart to thumping. Then again, other females have done the same. (He stills his hand, stares at the wall across from him, his eyes clouding over.) Camille’s the only one who’s made my gut shake. I’ve laid awake a lot of nights staring up at the ceiling thinking about her. So yeah, maybe it was love at first sight. 

What do you like most about Camille? Her smugness. Most would be quick to say that’s a bad thing, but Camille’s smart. She knows what she wants in life and isn’t afraid to go after it, including pampering herself. That’s not to say she lounges in bed and demands others to wait on her. She doesn’t. She cooks, cleans, launders clothes, and affords a lot of care to her features and hands; something I appreciate and others consider arrogant or spoiled. 

How would Camille describe you? (Redness creeps into his neck and he rubs at the wood again.) She says she thinks I’m handsome and strong. I think she needs to have her eyes examined; I ain’t nothing special to look at. (He rubs harder at the spot.) She also says I’m a good man, sincere, and caring. And, she likes my smile. (He meets my gaze.) She’s the one who’s good and caring… and naïve to the things I’ve done, the men I’ve had to kill to stop them from hurting someone else.

What is your biggest fear? That the Lord will banish me to Hell instead of letting me spend eternity with her.

How do you relax? Before Camille, I’d grab a bottle of whiskey and seek solitude in my room. Now, I join her on the sofa and watch the flames flicker in the fireplace. Ain’t nothing on this earth better than her curling against me and caressing my chest. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Landry signed over ownership of the saloon to me just after the new year. Camille and I are planning to serve the noon meal 6 days a week. A lot of places in Dodge and Cheyenne do. She’s a good cook. I am, too, and five years from now, with the money we’ve earned, I see us having help at the saloon’s kitchen and two kids sleeping upstairs while she and I continue to relax on the sofa before the fire.  

Thank you for talking with me, Burke. You and Camille are a beautiful couple and your readers and I wish both of you a lifetime of happiness. Appreciate that.  

 To get the full scoop on how Burke turned Camille’s attention from the boy at the mercantile to himself, curl up in your chair with their story, All I Want for Christmas Is You. Available only at Amazon.

www.amazon.com/dp/B0BDGFKF7N