New Releases

FALCONRY (AND A GIVEAWAY!) by Kristy McCaffrey

by

Falconry is the ancient sport of hunting wild quarry with a trained bird of prey. The practice didn’t arise in the American West until the late 1800s and early 1900s, although the practice was sporadic.

Spanish conquistadors noted indigenous people and Aztecs using trained raptors during the 16th century, and Christopher Columbus had one falconer in his party who hunted with hawks in what is now Haiti.

“Falconer” has been traditionally used to describe someone who flies a falcon. Hunting with a conditioned falconry bird was also called hawking of “gamehawking,” but those terms have fallen out of favor.

Raptors used in falconry include broadwings (Buteos and Parabuteos, which include Harris’s hawks), shortwings (Asturs and Accipiters, including hawks, goshawks and sparrowhawks), and longwings (Falcos, including peregrine falcons, kestrels, gyrfalcons and saker falcons).

In my upcoming historical western romance, The Falcon, the heroine is raising an abandoned prairie falcon fledgling, but as she has no experience in such an endeavor, she seeks out the introduction of a falconer from Argentina.

Prairie falcons are medium-sized falcons similar to peregrines located in Western North America. They might be better called desert falcons from their need for open space and arid dry habitats. They’re scrappy survivalists, with females much larger than males, and when trained well, they’re impressive hunters—aggressive, agile, and determined.

 

Mexico

December 1899

Josie Ryan’s connection to Texas runs deep, from the land to an almost preternatural kinship with the animals in the wild. This bond has led her to the edge of life and death, from saving a boy caught in a fire when she was eleven years old to being struck by lightning to a mountain lion attack that almost ended her life. The discovery of an abandoned falcon chick leads to a fierce attachment, but with only intuition to guide her, Josie struggles to train the wildest creature she’s ever encountered. When she learns of a man who could help, she’s determined to gain an introduction.

Mateo Almirón, El Halconero—The Falconer—and Argentine gaucho, is tasked with delivering two prized purebred Criollo mares to Matt Ryan, a man whose reputation casts a long shadow. Years ago, Ryan saved the life of Mateo’s father, and the horses will settle the longstanding debt, but when the exchange goes wrong, Mateo is entrusted with protecting Ryan’s daughter, Josie. Now Mateo and Josie must hide in the mountains of Northern Mexico where stories abound of Josie’s mother, a woman who lived among the Comanche and rose from the dead.

But in a place alive with superstition, Josie and her untamed falcon will give rise to a new legend …

Josie is the youngest child of Matt and Molly from The Wren (Book 1).

 The Falcon will be available 9/22/2026. Pre-order now at Apple Books and Nook. It will also be available at Amazon, Kobo, and Google Play books on release day.

Have you ever seen a falcon, hawk or eagle in the wild? Or maybe a zoo or rescue center? Leave a comment and be entered to win an e-copy of Book 11 in the Wings of the West series, The Swan.

 

In Oklahoma Territory Malcolm Hardy has created enough distance from his questionable family name to find a quiet purpose to his days, but then Dr. Anna Ryan walks back into his life, and his hard-won peace is in jeopardy.

 

Kristy McCaffrey writes award-winning historical western romances with grit and emotion, along with contemporary adventure stories packed with romance and suspense. Her work is filled with compelling heroes, determined heroines, and her trademark mysticism. She lives in the desert north of Phoenix with her husband and rescue bulldog, Jeb. Learn more about her books at her website, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

 

Graphics courtesy of Deposit Photos. Book covers by Earthly Charms.

It’s Yee-Haw Day!

by

The fillies are riding in with news fit for sharing!

Sarah Lamb

I’m riding in to share this brand new release! It’s the next to last in my historical romance series taking place in Red Ridge, but each book stands alone on it’s own just fine too!

Gus Malone has spent years watching younger folks find their happy endings while his own heart stayed silent. He’s loved Glinda Stover from afar for longer than he cares to admit, but what does an aging cowboy with calloused hands and an empty wallet have to offer a woman like her? He can barely choke out a “good morning.” Asking her to take a moonlit walk is far beyond him.

Glinda Stover is a woman who built her own life, nail by nail, and pretended she never needed a soul. Then a stranger rides into Red Ridge with a claim that could destroy everything she’s worked for. Too old to start over, Glinda faces an impossible choice, especially when a piece of her heart is here, and belongs to a man who’ll never know.

As Gus and Glinda try to stop the stranger, their race against time turns into something neither expected. But when the dust settles and the truth comes out, will Gus finally find the courage to speak what’s been locked in his heart for years? Or will fear of losing her keep him silent forever? And if he can’t say it, will she?     Find it here to buy or read on Kindle Unlimited! 

Karen Witemeyer

I’m excited to share that my Christmas novella – A Star in the West – with my nerdy mathematics professor hero is a finalist for the prestigious ACFW Carol Award! YeeHaw!

I had so much fun writing this story, and it makes my heart smile to see that others are enjoying it so well.
And before this blog post went live, I learned of a second final. WooHoo! To Love a Beast is a finalist in the Faith, Hope, & Love Reader’s Choice Awards. I delighted that readers enjoyed my western spin on the classic Beauty & the Beast tale.

Shanna Hatfield

I’m thrilled to share I have a new wholesome western romance releasing this week!

He’s spent decades guarding his heart.

She’s spent a lifetime chasing the horizon.

Neither of them were prepared for love to catch them by surprise.

Widower Jason Price isn’t looking for romance. As a trusted pickup man for the Rockin’ K Rodeo Company, part-owner of his family’s ranch, and a proud grandpa, his days—and his heart—are already full. Love is for younger folks with fewer scars and more time.

Photographer Lainey Collins traded corporate life for the open road, capturing the faces and stories of everyday people. Living out of her travel van, she’s built a life of freedom, purpose, and just enough distance to keep her heart safe.

But when a chance meeting at a rodeo puts her in Jason’s orbit, everything begins to shift.

As Lainey sets out to create a book featuring the faces of the rodeo, she finds herself returning again and again—to the arena… and to Jason. What begins as a project turns into something deeper as sparks fly, laughter comes easy, and two guarded hearts start to open.

Falling in love is one thing.

But trusting it—and daring to build a future—is another.

Can a cowboy who’s learned to live without love and a woman who’s always kept moving finally find a place to belong… together?

Coming June 4!

Cheryl Pierson

PROUD MAMA ALERT! I am so excited to let y’all know that my daughter Jessica just graduated from the Oklahoma City University School of Law two weeks ago on May 16th!

Jessica had a whole other career/life happening when COVID hit and completely shut down the acting/casting agencies (including the one she worked for here in OKC) back in 2020 or so. She went back to school and received her psychology degree, and then was offered a full ride scholarship to the OCU School of Law.

It has been a very tough time the last three years for her, with having to work AND go to school full time, but she made it and we are just so proud of her. Here are a few pictures of her graduation day!

Jessica and me outside the graduation venue there on campus, just after it was over–(Mama sure looks tired…) LOL 

Family picture outside the graduation venue on campus–my d-i-l Kayla, daughter Jessica, husband Gary, me, and son Casey. Such a joyful day for all of us!  Just wanted to share with my P&P family here! YEEEEEE-HAWWWWW!

Cathy McDavid

I got some fun news last week. My second ever Harlequin book about a cowboy veterinarian and woman construction company owner/former trick rider called “The Family Plan” was reissued, along with two other authors, in a German trade book edition. My book was retitled “Mein Herz will zurtick zu dir” – which translates to “My Heart Wants to go Back to You”.

Welcome Guest Author Tina Radcliffe!

by

Good morning, Fillies!

I’m thrilled to be with you. I’m going to take you on a tour of Aspen Creek, Colorado, today. So grab your sunglasses and a bottle of water. Off we go!

Book one of a brand new, six-book series launches on May 26th. The Sheriff’s Secret Past introduces the town of Aspen Creek. I’ve lived in a lot of places, but my time in Colorado was the longest stretch in one place (18 years), and I’m excited to return.

Aspen Creek is in southern Colorado, a mere four hours from the New Mexico border. It’s in the San Louis Valley, near the Rio Grande River.  Located on the edge of the San Juan Mountains, the altitude is 7883. Remember, Denver is known as the Mile-High City at 5280 feet.

A delightful town full of quirky characters, Aspen Creek, is the cowboy version of Stars Hollow where the Gilmore Girls live. BTW, you can grab your own map on my website (HERE) and tour each shop on the aspen-lined streets.

There’s always room for new shops, and I’m thinking about a boot shop in town for a future book.

What do you know about cowboy boots? I thought a boot was a boot. Not true.

Here’s a list of varieties:

  1. Traditional/Western. Tall shafts, angled half-inch heels.
  2. Ropers. Lower square heel, shorter shaft. These are designed to protect the ankle.
  3. Buckaroo. Fancier with a higher heel and intricate stitching. Tall shaft to protect in tall brush.
  4. Western Work Boots. Rubber sole, reinforced steel toe box. Rounded toe shape.
  5. Packers. Lace up rugged work boots used by cowboys riding pack mules and horses in mountainous terrain.
  6. Cowgirl boots. No different than men’s except in women’s sizes and preferred colors.
  7. Booties. Short without a long shaft.
  8. Dress boots. Intricate stitching and embroidery.

 

Now all I need is a name for the shop. What are your thoughts?

In honor of my new shop, I’m giving away a cowboy boot mug along with a print or ecopy of The Sheriff’s Secret Past to one reader who comments today. US only.

I’ll also throw in five (5) boot stickers to an additional five readers. US and International.

 

Now, let me introduce you to The Sheriff’s Secret Past.

To give his family the perfect future…
He must face his past

There are only two things on Sheriff Chase Everett’s mind: his upcoming reelection, and adopting his sweet niece after his sister’s death. The last thing he needs to worry about is the new editor of the local newspaper digging into his past. Newcomer Emily Taylor is eager for a juicy scoop for the Aspen Creek Journal, and the handsome sheriff is the perfect subject. But Chase has a dark secret that he’s desperate to hide. He needs to keep his distance from the feisty journalist, which should be easy, until a dog and a little girl bring them together…

 

Did you know that you can read the entire chapter one HERE?

Here’s where you can grab your own copy

Amazon  https://www.amazon.com/Sheriffs-Secret-Past-Uplifting-Inspirational-ebook/dp/B0FP9BHQFW/ref=sr_1_1?tag=pettpist-20?

Barnes & Noble  https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-sheriffs-secret-past-tina-radcliffe/1148152406?

Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-sheriff-s-secret-past

 

And more fun! Book 2 already has a cover. A K-9 Christmas Blessing.

Thanks for spending time with me. I’ll be scouring your comments to find the perfect name for Aspen Creek’s new boot shop.

Be sure to sign up for my monthly newsletter, as I’ll announce the name chosen THERE.

Publishers Weekly bestselling author Tina Radcliffe is an American Christian Fiction Writers Honor Roll member. She is also a five-time nominee for the ACFW Carol Award and a four-time ACFW Mentor of the Year finalist. Besides her novel-length fiction for Love Inspired, Tina has sold over three dozen short stories to Woman’s World Magazine. A former registered nurse and library cataloger, Tina is a frequent workshop presenter. She currently resides in Arizona, where she writes fun, heartwarming romance.

Stay up to date on all her releases and fun giveaways by signing up for her newsletter here. Visit her on the web at http://www.tinaradcliffe.com.

5 Things I Learned About 1776

by

 

Researching For Liberty and Love for our new Petticoats and Patriots Series transported me to the bustling streets of Philadelphia during the summer of 1776.

While I expected to uncover fascinating details about spies, patriots, and the fight for independence, I also stumbled across plenty of surprising little facts that brought that period of our history to life.

Here are five things that I learned while researching the story.

1. Many People Thought Tomatoes Were Poisonous

Can you imagine looking at a tomato and thinking, Absolutely not. That thing might kill me.

In 1776, many colonists avoided tomatoes because they believed them to be dangerous. Part of the fear came from wealthy Europeans who ate from pewter plates containing lead. The acid from tomatoes would leach lead from the plates, causing illness. Naturally, the tomatoes got blamed instead of the dishes.

So while modern kitchens are filled with tomato-based recipes, Lucy Carlson and Branch Barton (the main characters in my story) would likely never have a fresh sun-ripened tomato in Philadelphia during the Revolutionary War.

2. Philadelphia in July Was Hot, Humid, and Miserable

When we picture the signing of the Declaration of Independence, it’s easy to imagine a grand and noble moment with patriotic music soaring in the background.

The reality? The summer of 1776 was oppressively hot.

Philadelphia streets were crowded, dusty, muddy, noisy, and filled with unpleasant smells from horses, refuse, and open gutters. The delegates meeting in the Pennsylvania State House endured the sticky July heat in layers of wool clothing, stockings, waistcoats, and coats.

John Adams, one of the delegates, frequently wrote to his wife, Abigail, complaining about Philadelphia’s “melting heats” and “fierce dog days.” He described the weather as exhausting and expressed profound dread over surviving the summer humidity while debating the Declaration of Independence.

“When the Weather is so extream, the Fatigue of even holding a Pen to write a Letter, is distressing,” Adams wrote.

As I wrote  For Liberty and Love, I could feel that oppressive heat and wrinkled my nose at the thoughts of the odors it would have created in America’s largest city.

3. The Bells Truly Rang on July 8, 1776

One of my favorite discoveries involved the public reading of the Declaration of Independence.

Although Congress approved the Declaration on July 4, it wasn’t publicly read anywhere until July 8 in Philadelphia.

On that day, Colonel John Nixon stood in the yard (either on the steps or possibly a wooden platform) of the Pennsylvania State House and read the Declaration aloud to gathered crowds.

Bells began ringing to let people know to come to the State House. The reading was at noon. City and church bells “joyously tolled for most of the day and continued well into the night in celebration.”

I like to close my eyes and imagine hearing those bells echoing through the streets while realizing the colonies had officially declared independence from Britain. What a thrilling, terrifying, and unforgettable day that must have been.

4. Men’s Clothing Had Buttons Everywhere—Women’s Rarely Did

This detail fascinated me because it says so much about daily life in 1776.

Men’s clothing often featured rows and rows of buttons. Coats, waistcoats, breeches, and shirts all relied heavily on them—not just for function, but for fashion and status.

Women’s gowns, however, usually pinned closed or laced rather than buttoned. Buttons were expensive and time-consuming to make, and women’s clothing construction worked differently than men’s tailored garments.

I can’t imagine having to pin my clothes together every day. With my luck, I’d turn into a human pincushion!

5. There’s Surprisingly Little Information About Martha Washington During the Summer of 1776

Since Martha Washington plays a small but important role in  For Liberty and Love, I spent quite a bit of time researching her movements during that summer, wanting to be sure she would be in Philadelphia in July.

I was shocked to discover there really is little information about Martha’s whereabouts that summer, other than to say she was likely in Philadelphia from the end of June until some time in August. Also, I couldn’t believe how few images there were of her from her younger years. This image of a younger Martha is one I used for inspiration of her character in my story.

We know far more about George Washington’s military activities than Martha’s daily life, thoughts, or experiences. Women’s stories were often poorly documented during the Revolutionary era, even when those women played important roles behind the scenes.

It makes it even more important to me, as a writer,  to include in my stories courageous women whose contributions to history are sometimes overlooked . I’m pretty sure Lucy (and Martha!) would approve!

 

She never intended to become a spy … or fall for one.

Philadelphia, 1776

As whispers of revolution turn swell into a roar for freedom, Lucy Carlson is no longer content to simply watch from behind the counter of her father’s jewelry shop. When a mysterious woman—none other than Martha Washington—leaves behind a locket, Lucy discovers the piece is more than a pretty keepsake. The necklace is a secret vessel for the revolution that carries the promise of love.

Drawn into a dangerous spy ring, Lucy begins crafting coded messages concealed within the locket’s clever design, living a secret double life and risking everything she holds dear in a time of sacrifice and war.

Continental soldier Branch Barton is a man defined by duty. Tasked with rooting out traitors, he moves through the shadowed world of deception and divided loyalties. He’s trained to trust no one, yet he finds himself drawn into a slow-burning connection with the jeweler’s spirited daughter.

But when Lucy begins to suspect Branch may be a Redcoat in disguise, their fragile bond is tested by mistaken identity, growing mistrust, and the threat of betrayal.

In a war where even allies can become enemies, Lucy and Branch must navigate a world of hidden truths and guarded hearts. With the fate of the colonies—and their hearts—hanging in the balance as Lucy delivers a message in enemy territory, will they find the courage to trust each other and choose love?

Have you learned any interesting, odd, fun, or memorable facts recently?

Post your answer for a chance to win a mystery prize!

Fun Historical Facts and Giveaway

by

Howdy!  And welcome to another awesome Tuesday!

Recently, I decided to redo the cover for Book #1 in the Medicine Man Series.  I’d asked my cover artist if she might consider doing a cover with the image of the hairstyles of the American Iindians on the Plains in the 1830’s.  Book #1 is set in the 1830’s (SHE STEALS MY BREATH) and so I thought I’d ask because my cover artist is really an artist and she often draws things on my covers by hand (with online tools).

So let me first take you back to the 1830’s in an area of the country known as INDIAN TERRITORY.  George Catlin, as well as Karl Bodmer (accompanying  Prince Maxmilian onto the Plains) made trips into the interior of the north country, and they left a record of their travels.  What I had always noticed about these paintings was that the men often changed their hair styles, while the women generally wore their hair in braids.  This doesn’t necessarily hold true for the more southern tribes, but when I look at the northern tribes, these men pretty much wore their hair in a similar manner

Here are two men from the Nez Perce tribe who lived on the western side of the Blackbone-of-the-world Mountains (the Rockies).  Catlin met these two men when he was on a steamboat.  Interestingly, both men were on a mission for their tribe to see out the “Black Robe” and ask him about his religion and invite him to come to their tribe.

To the right here is an Assiniboine Indian (the Assiniboine were located farther east and a little more north of Crow Indians in what we now know as Montana.

In the center here is a Lakota man and below that is a Cheyenne chief.  The same hairstyle held true for most of the Northern tribes during this period: The Blackfeet, the Crow and the Cree.

And so, because my cover artist is a real artist and sometimes paints different images into a particular image she is working with, I asked her if she might be able to do a cover showing this particular men’s hairstyle.

Cat022

Below is the result:

This is the cover that my cover artist created for me and I absolutely love it.

Many things I love about this cover, but outside of the image of the hero and the heroine, I love the sky and the mountains.  Montana is often called The Big Sky Country and so I love that this image also highlights the sky.

This first book is currently on sale for $.99 and my newest book (Just released) in the Medicine Man series is sale for $3.59 at Amazon.

Note the difference in hair style between the 1830’s and the 1879’s.  My newest book is set in the 1870’s and at this time we have a completely different hairstyle that the men are wearing…again, almost tribe to tribe a very similar hair style.  Some differences, but many things that are similar about them.   This fellow in the middle here is Blackfeet.  Note the braids and the hair is now almost straight up and parted on the side.

The Picture below is of a Crow man:  Note how similar the style is at this time period.

The same styles were seen in the Flathead and the Nez Perce tribes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

And so I now would like  you to see how my cover artist showed this particular hair style on my newest cover.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I think both of these covers (that are new to me) are so very well done and show the different hair styles at this time in history.

What do you think?  Hope found this little bit of history interesting.

Both of these books are on sale:

SHE STEALS MY BREATH:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09TNDS67H?tag=pettpist-20 — This book is on sale for $.99.

IF SHE WERE MINE:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GWY3P5KS?tag=pettpist-20 — This book is on sale at a 40% discount at $3.59.

Please come on in and leave a post.  I’ll be giving away a free copy of the book, SHE STEALS MY BREATH.

 

 

 

Where is Felicia Filly?

by

Whoo-hoo, friends! I’m here today in the beautiful southwest visiting a filly who’s lived for most of her life in the in a state that boasts one of the seven natural wonders or the world. Do you know which wonder? (hint: it’s quite “grand”) Growing up in a city that used to call itself “The West’s Most Western Town”, how could she not have ridden and raised horses since her high school days?

This filly thought it would be fun to treat me like a cute cowgirl version of Elf on a Shelf. She posed me on different shelves around her house that, if you look closely, will give you a clue about her and her life. Can you guess who she is?

Clue #1

She loves to collect horse statues, especially Breyer horses, and still has one that she got for Christmas when she was fourteen. The brass ones in this photo are antiques – another kind of the horses she likes to collect.

Clue #2

This filly and her husband do a lot of traveling. She has two shelves filled with little trinkets from places they’ve been.

Clue #3

She recently redecorated her office and has surrounded herself with things that motivate and inspire her. One office wall is filled with cute cat pictures. What else would you expect from this kitty lover?

Clue #4

Yet another wall in her office is filled with typewriters. The one on the far left is over a hundred-years old (I did mention she collects antiques). See those badges hanging from the hooks? They are from her volunteer work with the Alzheimer’s Association – a cause that’s near and dear to her heart.

Clue #5

Last but not least, this filly has a book scheduled to come out this summer. She confided in me that she’s really excited about this release and will be telling you more about in soon!

Well, all I can say after my visit with this filly is, with all these shelves and stuff on them, I wouldn’t want to have to be the one to dust her house (hee, hee).

Can you guess who I visited? A randomly drawn winner will receive a $10 gift card!

 

Jill Kemerer – Welcome to Tumbleweed, TX – plus a Giveaway!

by

Howdy, fillies! It’s wonderful to be back at the junction!

Welcome to Tumbleweed, Texas, where love is in bloom and broken hearts heal in the most surprising circumstances. Embrace the small-town community, juicy storylines, and faith-filled romance in this four-book continuity published by Love Inspired.

Today I’m sharing about my new book, The Rancher’s Unlikely Match, which releases on Tuesday, April 28th, and giving you the inside scoop about the fictional town of Tumbleweed, Texas. The first three books in the continuity released in January, February, and March, and were written by different authors.

Book 1: The Coach’s Secret Child by Lee Tobin McClain

Book 2: The Pastor’s Easter Prayer by Tina Radcliffe

Book 3: The Police Chief’s Instant Family by Mindy Obenhaus

Book 4: The Rancher’s Unlikely Match by Jill Kemerer

When the four of us authors were approached to write the continuity, we immediately shared files to help us keep the town and characters consistent. Tina drew up a fictional map of the town, and that helped tremendously. The rest of us added stores and businesses as we were writing our books.

Tumbleweed is a small fictional town located in eastern Texas, and it’s full of charm and fascinating people. You can get your hair done at Beauty Lounge, worship during Sunday services at Tumbleweed Community Church, grab a delicious meal at the Friendly Fork, or snack on a Texas-sized cinnamon roll from Sweet Dreams Bakery. Personally, I want to do it all!

The town square has a gazebo, and you might spot the manager of the Grocery Spot racing across the park to catch his runaway wiener dog. You’ll definitely want to set up your chairs early to watch the Tumbleweed Days parade. The entire town shows up for the annual event. Former mayor, Jim Stewart, is in charge of the planning committee, and rumor has it that he and local ranching matriarch, Patty Wright, have been getting cozy. Hmm…I wonder what’s going on with them?

Back to Tumbleweed. Here’s what each author had to say when asked about the town.

If you could visit Tumbleweed, Texas, where would you go first? And who would you most like to meet?

Lee Tobin McClain:

As a teacher from a family of teachers, I’d head to the high school to watch my heroine, Kayla, mentor Coach Mike in the art of teaching. Then I’d head to the Friendly Fork diner for a bite to eat. Finally, I’d get my hair done at the Beauty Lounge, so I could catch up on all the gossip from Ginger Jackson, the owner.

Tina Radcliffe:

I fell in love with Sweet Dream Bakery. If I visited Tumbleweed, I’d stop in and say hi to baker Luna Perez and order both a cinnamon roll and a chocolate croissant. If it were a Wednesday, I’d order a cupcake slathered with fudge buttercream frosting. Yum!

Mindy Obenhaus:

Sweet Dreams Bakery would definitely be my first stop. I have a voracious sweet tooth. And I wouldn’t mind chatting with Patricia Wright. It takes a mighty strong woman to handle the largest ranch in the county AND Jim Stewart.

Me!

I’d head straight to Sweet Dreams Bakery for one of those Texas-sized cinnamon rolls and a latte. Then I’d find Jessica and find out how she’s doing with those goats!

As you can see, we all clearly are craving yummy treats from the bakery. In fact, I could go for a cinnamon roll now…

My book begins at Big W Ranch. Patty Wright’s son, Ben, took the large cattle operation over after Patty’s husband died years ago. Three of the new neighbor’s goats have invaded Patty’s garden, much to Ben’s three kids’ delight. They love goats. Ben’s not happy about it, but the single dad is always grumpy. Enter the new neighbor, Miss Sunshine herself, Jessica Howard, and sparks begin to fly. I’ve always loved a good grumpy-sunshine trope. You’ll have to read the book to find out what happens!

I had such fun writing The Rancher’s Unlikely Match, and I have a happy announcement. There will be a second four-book continuity set in Tumbleweed, Texas, that will be released in early 2027! Yeehaw!

Giveaway Time

I’m giving away one copy of The Rancher’s Unlikely Match to a commenter. US winner will receive a signed paperback. International winner will receive an e-book! Simply leave a comment below to be entered.

Does your town have any special festivals the entire town attends? I’d love to hear about them!

Could her fresh start…be the answer to his prayers?

Widowed rancher Ben Wright doesn’t need more complications, especially not runaway goats from the pretty new farmer next door, Jessica Howard. With three kids, a farm and a baseball team to coach, he’s earned his gruff reputation. Jessica left a draining social work career in Houston, hoping for a fresh start and to save her inherited farm from debt—the last thing she needs is a grumpy neighbor. But despite their rocky start, Jessica begins to see past his tough exterior as she spends time with his kids. When old hurts arise, Ben and Jessica must decide…is a future together worth fighting for?

Purchase THE RANCHER’S UNLIKELY MATCH here!

Jill Kemerer

 

About Jill Kemerer

Jill Kemerer is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author of heartwarming, emotional, small-town romance novels often featuring cowboys. Nearly a million of her books have sold worldwide. Jill’s essentials include coffee, caramels, a stack of books, and long walks outdoors. She resides in Ohio with her husband. They have two adult children. For more information, visit her website, jillkemerer.com.

 

Taming the Wild Cowboy Preview and Give Away

by

The second book of my Bad Boys of the Rodeo series, TAMING THE WILD COWBOY, is about to be released. The official release date is April 28, but it is available now for preorder. I had a lot of fun writing this book. The hero, Trev Matthews, is one of my favorites and he plays a part in all four books of the series. Here’s an excerpt:

Trev put his phone in his pocket, studying the truck as it approached and wondering where he’d be directing the driver to. When the truck got close enough to read the Montana plate, he could see that a woman was driving with a smallish dog bouncing on the seat beside her.

The truck lurched when it crossed the cattleguard, as if its suspension was shot, then continued across the wide gravel yard that separated the houses from the barns and outbuildings, pulling to a stop a few yards away from where Trev stood. She turned off the engine and started to open the door, only to stop abruptly when he pushed his hat back, giving her a good look at his face. He might have been mistaken but it looked like she’d silently mouthed a curse word.

Trev’s first thought was that she was nervous, being miles from the public road and quite possibly lost. His second thought, when she once again raised her chin, was no  way.

Maclyn Kane.

He felt like rubbing his eyes to see if she disappeared when he opened them again. What was she doing here? And why was she driving a truck that looked like the front quarter panel would fall off if someone breathed too heavily on it?

They faced off through the gravel-pitted windshield for a few more seconds, then Maclyn squared her shoulders and pushed the truck door all the way open, telling the little dog to stay. The door remained ajar after she’d stepped to the ground, making it easier to jump back inside, he figured. The dog danced on the edge of the seat but followed orders and stayed put.

So, again, why was Maclyn Kane on his ranch?

She appeared to be wondering the same thing as she stopped a few feet away from him, perhaps waiting for him to make the first move. That wasn’t going to happen.

A breeze came up and caught hold of her dark hair, which was about a foot shorter than during their rodeo days, falling to her shoulders instead of to her waist, and her clothes were remarkably utilitarian. The loose-fitting jeans bore signs of wear that were not part of the manufacturing process, and her scuffed boots spoke of actual ranch work. No glitz. No bling. No visible jewelry. If he’d passed her on the street, it would have taken him a few seconds to recognize her. That said, she still had that air about her, as if she were royalty masquerading as a cowgirl.

Or she’s nervous.

She had reason to be.

“Long time,” Maclyn finally said, hooking a thumb in her pocket.

“Six years,” he acknowledged.

Her eyebrows lifted. “Five and a half since you tanked my job chances with Buckley Livestock, but who’s counting?”

Yeah. That. Not his fault. He’d been asked his opinion of Maclyn Kane as a potential employee and had explained his personal experience with her, every word of which was true. He had not sought out the hiring manager of Buckley as she seemed to imply, and was about to correct her, when he thought better of it. Nothing good came of arguing the past, and beyond that, there was something about the way Maclyn held herself, as if about to wade into battle, that stopped him.

“What can I do for you?” he finally asked.

“I’m here about the job you posted in the feed store on the highway.”

Trev tried to hold back the laugh. Failed. Mac’s expression shifted from defensive to pure ice at the choked sound.

“Sorry to have wasted your time.” She turned toward the truck and jerked the partially open door until it bounced on the hinges. The little dog scrambled into the passenger seat.

“Wait.”

Mac turned her head, Sam Elliott style, to wordlessly meet his gaze as he took a few steps forward, making him wonder if he’d imagined the crack in her voice.

“For?” she asked.

He shifted his weight, buying time as he tried to find a place of mental equilibrium. This was weird. “You’re here about the job.”

Her jaw shifted sideways. “I was.”

“Why?” It made no sense.

“I didn’t know that you’d be here.”

She climbed into the truck then and pulled the door handle. Trev caught the frame before the door closed, dropping his hand as she shot him a look. Right. What was he thinking?

He was thinking that he wanted answers. “Mac.”

She abandoned the battle for the door, letting her head drop back against the split vinyl of the headrest. “Yes?”

“What’s going on?”

She closed her eyes as if shutting out a bad memory. It took her a long moment to say, “I need something temporary. A few days even.”

“Why?”

Her eyes came open. “I’m in a spot.”

“What kind of spot?”

“The kind I didn’t expect.”

He raised his eyebrows.

She shifted her gaze to the windshield. “I got fired from my job. I have two horses and a dog to feed.”

He waited for more, but she reached for the ignition instead of explaining. Trev wasn’t ready to let her go. Not just yet.

“Mac.”

She kept her hand on the key as she once again glanced his way. “I don’t expect you to believe me, given our history.”

She gave the word history a nasty twist, which in turn caused something to shift uncomfortably in Trev’s brain. She had been so adamant when he’d confronted her about paying for the damage to his truck. Damage she’d caused, yet refused to take responsibility for.

“Won’t your parents help you out of the spot?” The parents everyone assumed bankrolled her back in the day. Someone had paid for that flashy truck and trailer and one of the best barrel horses on the circuit. Since Maclyn had been barely into her twenties at the time, the assumption was that it wasn’t her writing the checks.

“Not an option.”

Her tone spoke of bridges burned, and he realized how little he knew about this woman. What he’d had was assumptions and amusing anecdotes from Brooke, who had admired her travel partner’s quiet grit. Grit that Trev had secretly pegged as privilege and the knowledge that she could get away with stuff.

“Sell the horses.”

Maclyn gave him a dark look. “Also not an option.”

“Then it appears you’re low on options.”

“Thanks for pointing that out.” She pulled the door shut then and started the engine. Trev stepped back as the truck rolled forward a few feet, then stopped. After a brief hesitation, Maclyn lowered the window.

“There’s something I need to tell you.”

Here it came.

“I was not driving your truck that night.”

She did stick to her story.

And now for the give away. My book has heat in places (nothing crazy mind you) and some salty language. I know many of our readers are sweet romance readers, so instead of giving away the book, I’m giving away a $10 Amazon gift card so that the winner can buy any book they’d like. Hopefully two books. Hopefully books written by me or my fellow fillies. 🙂

This is a second chance romance, which is one of my favorite tropes, so I write it often. To be eligible for the gift card, tell me one of your favorite tropes or story themes. Winner will be announced on Sunday.

Traveling Performers in the 1800s.

by

 

On the Texas frontier, justice is a long ride. And love is the most dangerous gamble of all.

Jess’s Reckoning is now up for preorders! Won’t be long until release day on May 12th. I had so much fun with this story as Jess and Abigail find themselves trapped in an outlaw town where death awaits around every corner.

One of the more humorous parts is the fact that newspaperwoman Abigail Farnsworth wears a black wig over her blonde curls in an effort to escape notice. She has access to all sorts of fake wigs, mustaches, and beards through a woman she meets who once traveled across America with an acting troupe.

Research proved extremely helpful and I learned that wigs and artificial facial hair were very prevalent back in the 1800s. Of course, the judges and lawyers wore white wigs like their British counterparts but others wore a variety of colors for different reasons. Hair loss was a big thing back then. Maybe due to bad water, medicines made with opium and alcohol, and lead that was often in food and their homes. They were made of horsehair and other animal hair, sheep’s wool, vegetable fibers, and human hair. Egyptians wore wigs because they shaved their heads. In fact, they were probably the first people to wear them.

There were two different kinds of traveling performers – the medicine show and what was called tent repertoire theater. The medicine shows traveled by wagon out west selling elixirs and mostly fake medicines. They used an actor or two to entertain the crowd while the salesman made the pitch. Tent repertoire theaters were just that—performances in tents that could be pitched anywhere.

In my book the wigs and hair pieces were needed for disguises that helped them move around the outlaw town of Diablo Springs. Once you entered, you were not allowed to leave. Something Jess and Abigail learn too late.

While they’re kept there, they discover Jess’s little sister, the last of his missing siblings to be found. And that only complicates things more. Jess has his work cut out for him and after he’s beaten severely on the head with a hefty club, he’s left with double vision, headaches, and intermittent dizziness. You get the picture. Scary times.

Have you ever worn a wig or hairpiece? If not, would you want one? I have a nice wig that I bought following a botched haircut. I learned firsthand that they’re not all that much fun and I couldn’t wait for my hair to grow out so I could retire the wig. Every so often I get it out for a special occasion. And I also have a purple wig I bought for Halloween. Here’s a picture.

 

If you haven’t preordered Jess’s Reckoning, CLICK HERE. And if you’d like to read an excerpt, CLICK HERE. 

Book #2 of the Petticoats and Cowboys series-THIS MONTH–and a giveaway

by

Last month,

Petticoat Ranch

and now

Calico Canyon

These are re-releases of out of print books that I love.

I have a chance to get them back in print with Wild Heart Books Publishing and I’m excited about it.

A few things I remember about Calico Canyon

  1. My mother-in-law was one of my favorite people on the planet. For most of her life…the part I was in…I considered her one of my best friends. She passed away fourteen years ago and I still think of her often and wish I could tell her some story that would make her laugh. I dedicated Calico Canyon to her. The mother of seven sons, of which My Cowboy Husband was number 6. She read the book and said, “My children didn’t behave the way these five boys did.” Completely true because NO CHILDREN ever behaved the way these five boys do.
  2. I got word of a contract offer for Calico Canyon the same week my daughter got married. Third daughter, but first to marry. The contract made the wedding FAR LESS PAINFUL to pay for and I really appreciated it.
  3. Calico Canyon got nominated for a Christy Award. Wow, I didn’t see that coming. I’m a firm…THE NOMINATION IS THE AWARD…person. Sure you can always upgrade what you say, WINNER instead of FINALIST. But no one’s taking that finalist award away and I always cherished this. I did NOT win but they announce the winner by reading the first sentence of the book. And the first sentence of Calico Canyon is, “The five horsemen of the Apocalypse rode in. Late as usual.” I always loved that as an opening for a book and I wanted so badly for them to read that out. Nope.
  4. And the wedding scene in Calico Canyon ranks up with, In My Opinion, the funniest thing I’ve ever written.

Calico Canyon, coming April 28. Can anyone remember a favorite first line from a book? I’ve got a few from other books that I love.

Grace McKennon’s Wonderbra saved her life. From Julie Garwood…Grace Under Fire

There’s just no good way to pick up a human head. From Alex Kava…A Necessary Evil

And the classic, Jane Austin…It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.

And of course…

“The five horsemen of the Apocalypse rode in. Late as usual.

What about our Petticoat and Pistol readers? Have you got a favorite? Comment on your favorite first lines to get your name in a drawing for an ebook copy of Calico Canyon.

Calico Canyon

A runaway teacher, a bewildered widower, and five rambunctious boys who need a mother whether they want one or not. Perfect for fans of Tracie Peterson and Karen Witemeyer.

Grace Calhoun never imagined teaching school in Texas would lead to marriage—especially not to the infuriating Daniel Reeves.

When Grace flees her adoptive father’s cruelty by hiding in a stranger’s wagon, the town parson insists on an immediate wedding, leaving Grace trapped in marriage to a stubborn widower with five unruly sons—the very boys who made her teaching job impossible.

Daniel Reeves has no intention of risking his heart—or another wife—to childbirth.

Still grieving the loss of his first wife, Daniel wants nothing to do with the prim schoolmarm forced into his family. He’ll build her a house and provide for her needs, but he’ll keep his distance. His sons need a mother, but he refuses to fall in love again.

Snowed in together for a long Texas winter, walls begin to crumble.

As Grace discovers the courage she thought she’d lost, she transforms from a frightened woman on the run to a fierce protector of her new family. The boys who once tormented her become the children of her heart. And the husband who swore to keep his distance? He’s finding it harder each day to resist his spirited wife.

But when Grace’s dangerous past catches up to her, she must choose between running again or standing firm in the faith that brought her to Calico Canyon—even if it costs her everything.

A tender tale of found family, healing love, and the faithfulness of God in the midst of life’s unexpected turns.

 

Petticoats & Pistols