Christmas Reading

Years ago, when I first created Royce Weston, his twin sister, brothers Lucas and Creel, and his father, I had no idea I would expand the Weston family into 4 novels and 3 short stories. But as I kept writing, the family kept growing. The brothers married and the children grew up. It is 3 of those children I’m interviewing today, as they are the leads in the Weston Family Series Christmas stories. (Tess and Cade Weston are Lucas’ children and Tabitha Weston is Royce’s daughter.) Purchase links are at the end, and each story is .99 cents on Amazon.

Tess Weston:

Tell us a little about Christmas Miracles:

With a winter storm threatening to blanket the land in snow, James Landry boards a train to Denver two days before his Christmas Eve wedding to Tess Weston, despite her misgivings that the storm will hinder his return trip home. But James has to go to the big city to replace the worthless ring he mistakenly bought for her with a band of real gold, and assures her nothing, not even snow, will keep him from arriving at the altar on time. But James doesn't count on finding himself stuck in knee-deep drifts, with a Colt .45 staring him in the face.

Tess has had an eerie feeling that something bad is going to happen to James since the moment he told her of his trip. With fat, flakes of snow falling steadily from the sky, images flicker in her mind of him stranded in a hotel room, or on a cold train car. But for some reason, the snow piling up outside her window doesn't lend weight to her fear that James is in grave danger. Determined to help him, Tess sets out on a course to find him, only to have one obstacle after another deter her from reaching him.     

What did you think the 1^st time you saw James?

That he was another ranch hand pa had hired.

What was your 2^nd thought?

With his broad chest and muscles, I could snuggle against him all day.

What do you like most about James?

His smile and his honesty.

How would you describe James?

He’s loyal and a hard worker. And sometimes he’s shy.

How would James describe you?

Bold, sassy, determined, stubborn; I inherited the best of my parent’s traits. But I think James also sees I have good heart and I’m kind.

What is your biggest fear?

Losing James, or any member of my family.

Cade Weston:

Tell us a little about Christmas Hearts:

After spending two years in Wyoming, Cade Weston is eager to return to his family’s ranch to celebrate the Christmas holiday. But fate intervenes in the form of a tortured soul—Nicole. Her guardian has abused her, leaving Cade with little choice but to pay for her freedom and take her with him. Holed up with her in a Denver hotel, a feeling hints he wants more from her than a thank you for having helped her. Problem is she doesn’t return the feeling.

Nicole Lamar has spent the past six months dreaming of freedom. Savannah, with its warmth and sunshine, beckons. Now that Cade has rescued her from an evil proprietor, that freedom is within reach. But when the handsome cowboy proves he’s the owner of a Christmas Heart, a life without him suddenly isn’t so desirable. Before she can approach him about the matter, he purchases a ticket for her on an eastbound train. And one for himself on a southbound train.

What did you think the 1^st time you saw Nicole?

She was beaten and wearing flimsy clothing on a cold winter’s day. I wanted to punch the man she was with.

What was your 2^nd thought?

To get her away from the man she was with, take her to someplace warm where her body could heal, where she could find warmer clothes, and where she would be safe.

What do you like most about Nicole?

She’s a fighter. In her situation, plenty of other women would’ve died.

How would you describe Nicole?

Strong willed, kind, lonely, cautious.

How would Nicole describe you?

Her first thought most likely was I’m another man intent on hurting her. After that, I’m fairly certain she would say I’m trustworthy and someone she can depend on.

What is your biggest fear?        

Not sure that I have one, unless you count something happening to a family member, or Nicole. We Westons look out for each other, and when one of us hurts, we all hurt. As for Nicole, I’m going to make sure her captor doesn’t lay claim to her again.

Tabitha Weston:

Tell us a little about Christmas Wishes:

U.S. Marshall Chance McBride has spent weeks tracking Steve ‘Smarty’ Jones. Ambushed and wounded by the outlaw, Chance is forced to seek help at a nearby school. But the teacher isn’t what he imagined. Instead of a male wearing trousers, a female takes charge of his care. Bright blue eyes and soft curves; Tabitha’s sassy nature awakens a deep-seated loneliness only she and a Christmas wish can soothe.

Tabitha Weston has never favored anything girlie. She’d rather saddle-break wild horses than bat her eyelashes and flirt with a man. But one glimpse into Chance’s molasses-colored eyes and Tabitha’s abhorrence to relationships is suddenly corralled by her need to win the lawman’s favor. Can a wish upon Christmas snow for him to trade the freedom of the trail for a home with her actually come true? She’s about to find out.    

What did you think the 1^st time you saw Chance?

He was big and muscular. Grabbing me from behind and forcing his way into the schoolhouse, I was sure he was an outlaw and meant me harm.

What was your 2^nd thought?

Upon discovering he was a U.S. Marshall and wounded, I had no time to admire over his handsomeness and his muscles. I had to dig a bullet out of him.

What do you like most about Chance?

His bravery. I know my poking around his insides had to hurt, but he didn’t complain.

How would you describe Chance?    

Despite his putting the fear of God into me upon our meeting, I’ve come to realize Chance is a good man. He’s handsome, somewhat fearless, and is as skittish over matters of the heart as I am.

How would Chance describe you?

Sassy, bossy, and not prone to swooning.

What is your biggest fear?

At the moment, worrying Chance will take a turn for the worst because of something I did wrong.   

Purchase Links:

Christmas Miracles: www.amazon.com/dp/B009YZDXOC

Christmas Hearts: www.amazon.com/dp/B00FL000FY

Christmas Wishes: www.amazon.com/dp/B016PP3ALO

    

Thank you for your continued support of not only me, but the Cowboy Kisses authors, blog and Facebook page. I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. All the best to you in 2019!

Julie   

Character Interview with Roth Beaumont

Lydia’s Gunslinger is the 2^nd book in my Revolving Point, Texas Series. Roth was such a fun hero to write. He has his own sense of humor, is tough on the outside and a big, ole teddy bear on the inside. A while back, Roth was interviewed on the Wild Women Authors blog. He proved such a charming scamp, I thought I’d share with you here:  

Where are you from? St. Louis

Tell us a bit about Lydia’s Gunslinger: I grew up in an orphanage. The headmaster enjoyed tormenting boys, and whipped me on a few occasions. When I was old enough, I ran away, leaving my sister behind. I had no money, so I fell in with a band of outlaws. Made a name for myself robbing banks and payrolls. Outlaws don’t really have friends, but there was one person I could somewhat trust, Gage Cantrell. He helped me steal my sister away from the orphanage. I left her in Tucson after Gage and me pulled another heist and then split up, because a posse was after us. That’s when I met up with Percy, a miserable lout, and rode with him to Revolving Point. Situated on the Rio Grande, that town has a reputation worse than any outlaw. Rumors along the trail said Revolving Point nearly burned down, and the worst of the outlaws now made it his home. Percy had to find out for sure, and as luck would have it, Buck Grayson was there. Bastard that he is, Grayson forced me to pin on a badge and help him keep law and order. If I didn’t, he promised to send me to The Walls. His method for keeping me in line is my sister. Debra was injured and Grayson brought her to Revolving Point to heal. Now, he’s forced me to greet the orphanage lady, Lydia Tyler.

(Ryland Park.org) Lydia's orphanage

Lydia took me to task the moment we met. Trouble is, I like that. And the spark of defiance in her eyes. But Lydia’s a society lady and has troubles of her own, namely in the form of the man her pa hired as headmaster of her orphanage. A woman like her probably doesn’t want anything to do with me, or my guns, which she detests. But she keeps company with me, hints at a bit of larceny in her bones. With or without her say-so, I’m gonna rid her of her troubles.  

    

What did you think the first time you saw Lydia? That she’s a pretty, little spitfire, with hair as black as coal, eyes like a cat, and a temper to match mine.  

What was your second thought? That I was gonna get even with Grayson for setting her in my path. 

 

Did you feel it was love at first sight? Lust is more like it. Love didn’t come along until a few days later. 

What do you like most about Lydia? Her sass, the way she fusses over me and how she doesn’t try to change me. 

How would you describe Lydia? Lydia is pretty inside and out. She has a good heart and protects her orphans as fiercely as a mama bear guards her cubs. She’s loyal, outspoken and generous to a fault.  

How would Lydia describe you? Over-bearing, temperamental, crude, crazy, a menace… and those are my good qualities. 

What made you choose outlawing as a career? Didn’t have a choice, seeing how I had no skills or money. It was either steal and eat or starve and die.

What is your biggest fear? Losing Lydia, in any way. 

   

How do you relax? I don’t. If you had enemies like mine, you wouldn’t, either. 

Who is your favorite fictional character and why? I don’t have one. I’m not one for reading, unless it’s a Wanted poster. 

What is the best piece of advice you ever received? Don’t wear spurs. They make too much noise.

Lydia’s Gunslinger is available here:

www.amazon.com/dp/B007873DIE

Revolving Point, Texas Series: (Available only at Amazon; www.amazon.com/author/julielence)

Zanna’s Outlaw

Lydia’s Gunslinger

Debra’s Bandit

Be Mine, Valentine (short story)

Interview with Ellie - Ginger Simpson

I've promoted Ellie's Legacy before, but I recently discovered the sales haven't been good enough for it to go to print and possible end up in a local store.  I'm not sure why...unless some don't consider a story set in Tenneessee really a "western."  Trust me...this spoiled heroine captures the eyes of her pa's ranch foreman but this isn't just a romance.  Tyler Bishop becomes the son her father never had, and although Ellie's heart beats a little faster when Ty's around, she's determined to let her spoiled side prove she can do anything a man can.  Read the interview and you'll get a good idea of what I mean:

RF=Roselle Fountain

INT = Interviewer

Our special guest this evening is Miss Roselle Fountain, the heroine from author, Ginger Simpson’s western historical, Ellie’s Legacy. Welcome, Roselle. 

RF – *Fidgeting* Oh please call me Ellie.  I’ve never much identified with such a flowery name.  You probably can’t tell by the way I’m dressed today, but I’ve always been somewhat of a tomboy.

INT - *Laughing*.  So I’ve heard.  You look very nice in your flowered print—very much the lady.

RF – That’s Pa’s doing.  He insisted that if I was going to make an appearance, I needed to dress like a lady.  I’d much rather be wearing britches and boots. *Tugs at the neckline of her dress*.  These things are too danged uncomfortable at times.

INT – So, Ellie, tell the readers a little about Ellie’s Legacy.

RF – *Grins* Well, I can’t give away too much.  Ginger would skin me alive, but I’m sure she won’t mind me telling you that it’s got a little romance, a lot of western, and even more feistiness than her last historical romance.  It all starts when Pa hires Tyler Bishop as the ranch foreman.  I kinda figured Pa always wanted a son, and Ty proves me right. Their relationship gets me pretty riled up.  I have a bad temper at times… I think it comes from this red hair.  *pulls a strand of hair forward and smiles*.

INT – So, besides your being jealous of Ty, is there any adventure involved.

RF – Oh, you bet.  *Squares herself in her chair*.  The polecats that live on the neighboring ranch are aiming to get Fountainhead away from Pa.  Dude Bryant and his twin boys are meaner than snakes… well at least Dude and Jason are.  Joshua comes across as quiet and a follower.  But, *balls hands into fists* I’ll be danged if they’re gonna get my legacy.  I actually bought a gun and taught myself to shoot it. 

INT – A gun?  What do you plan to do with it?

RF – Protect Fountainhead of course.  I’m aim to show Pa he don’t need Tyler Bishop around when he has me.  I just wish that Ty wasn’t so dang good lookin’.

INT – I haven’t heard you mention your mother.  How does she feel about you owning a gun?

RF - *Lowers her eyes*.  My ma died when I was very young.  I suppose that’s why I took up with the ranch hands and spend so much time workin’ outdoors.  *Raises a steely gaze*.  But, now that Ty’s in the picture, Pa wants me to spend more time in the house doing womanly things.

INT – Would that be such a bad thing?

RF – Of course it would.  I don’t much care for cookin’ and cleanin’.  We have Cook for that.  I’d much rather brand a cow as fry one.

INT – So what about the romance part of the story?

RF – *Chews her bottom lip for a moment* I can’t tell you much more than I accompany Ty to a dance, but as usual, he gets my dander up there, too.  What happens from then on, you’ll have to find out for yourself.  I may look young and naïve, but I’m not silly enough to give away the whole story.  Miz Ginger is counting on sales to help pay for something called an implant.  I wouldn’t want to let her down.

INT – I certainly wouldn’t want you to do that either.  You’ve given us enough of a teaser to stir some interest.  Hopefully we’ll see you on a best seller’s list somewhere.

RF – That would be right nice.  It just may happen cause remember, I have a gun. *Slaps hip and fakes a draw*.

INT -  Well, here’s hoping you don’t have to use it.  *laughs*.  Thank you so much, Ellie for being with us today.  And good luck in the future.

RF – Oh, yeah.  I almost forgot to tell you that Ellie’s Legacy is available on Amazon, published by Books We Love.  I reckon the copies are available on something called the Innernet.  *pulls paper from pocket.*  Miz Ginger gave me this to read: www dot amazon dot com a slash leaning forward author one of those and then gingersimpson.  It’s her page where you can see all her books.  I hope I got that right.

INT – Sounds fine to me. Thanks again, Ellie.

http://www.amazon.com/author/gingersimpson

http://www.gingersimpson.com

http://cowboykisses.blogspot.com

A day late and a dollar short

Time Travelers do it Anachronistically
by Alison Bruce (and friends)


I know a few Western Romance authors who have dabbled in time travel, or even made it the focus of a series. I have also been tempted. So far I've only pulled characters forward in time in order to interview them. My alter-ego, Nighthawk the Avian Interviewer, would pull anyone from anywhere to introduce the character to a new audience.

Nighthawk is retired, but here's a taste of the old crow's show.

Nighthawk: Welcome to Nighthawk Talk Radio. I'm Nighthawk and this is our intern du jour, Cherie du Bois. Joining us tonight is our guest Marly Landers, of Under A Texas Star.

You’ve been traveling with Texas Ranger Jase Strachan and, from all reports, been a significant aid in his investigations. What are your career goals?

Cherie: I want to host a reality series - something that combines my two loves: fashion and extreme skin care.

Nighthawk: I meant our guest, Cherie. Marly, do you see yourself continuing to work with the Texas Rangers?

Marly: I’d like to. Not sure if I’ll get away with it when they find out I’m not a man. One thing I know for sure, I’m not going back to Aunt Adele!

Cherie: I know you're disguised as a boy, but what do you do to keep a healthy glow on the trail, without burning your cheeks, your nose, your forehead?

Marly: I’ve got a hat.

Nighthawk: Cherie, Marly doesn’t exactly have access beauty products, you know. Respectable women didn’t wear makeup - boys certainly didn’t.

Cherie: Not so! A man with a little money to spend might get a facial from his barber. Though maybe he didn't call it that. Women had face creams and tonics to clean the face - or remove freckles.

Marly: I kinda like my freckles but Miss Cherie is right. My aunt didn’t hold with vanity but she washed her face with sour milk once a week to keep her complexion healthy. She always wore a hat to keep the sun off her face and used rose water when she bathed. When I turned sixteen, she gave me a bottle of lavender water because she said that was better for young skin and the stronger smell would keep me fresh.

Cherie: Did she pinch your cheeks or show you how to put lamp black on your eyes?

Marly: I’ve seen how other girls do it, but that would have been too wanton for Aunt Adele.

Nighthawk: Yes, well... How do your skills match against your average Texas Ranger?

Marly: So far the only Texas Ranger I ever met was Jase. I’m a greenhorn compared to him - especially in the saddle. I’m a good shot, though. Aunt Adele taught me to shoot with a rifle and Jase taught me how to shoot a revolver.

Cherie: Tell, me, do you get saddle sore, or do you optimize all those hours on horseback to tighten your glutes and abdominals?

Marly: My what and my what?

Cherie: I can suggest some isometric exercises that will keep you toned and strengthen your pelvic floor. Happy muscles lead to happy skin.

Nighthawk: Cherie!

Marly: Well, ma'am, I'm not sure about happy muscles, but I'm stronger than I look. I've also got excellent hearing. Fact is, I think I hear Jase callin' me now...

Interviews, Why do them?

Howdy Friends,
This is my first post here on Cowboy Kisses. It's not on the regular schedule, but I want to let you know about an interview I have running on Big Al's Books and Pals. It was just posted this morning. If you'd like to learn a little about why and how I write, please stop by and give it a read.   http://booksandpals.blogspot.com/

Some folks might wonder why authors give online interviews. The obvious reason is it's a way to publicize our books, but that's not the only reason. Interviews are also a way to make contacts, not only with other authors, book reviewers and interviewers, but also with readers who may never have heard of us before. Okay, this is a form of publicity, too. However, it's also a matter of connecting with people and building friendships.

Like many authors, I'm basically a recluse. I like sitting at my computer with only my cats for company. It's in my nature to enjoy being alone with my thoughts. How else could I write? Yet, this does make for a rather lonely life at times. That's when the internet becomes an outlet, an escape if you will. Since publishing my first book in 2010, I've met many wonderful people on Facebook, Twitter, author chat rooms and my own blog sites. Interviews and guest posts for other bloggers widen this circle of online friends. We may never meet in person, but it's nice to know we are there for each other on the occasional down day.

I hope you are having a wonderful day! If you visit Big Al's site, please say hi to me. I'd love to meet you.

Lyn 

Blogging at

http://texasdruids.blogspot.com/  

and

http://texasdruids.com