Mary J. McCoy-Dressel

Sensual western romance. Heartwarming stories. Strong family ties.
Mary J. McCoy-Dressel
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  • Category: Bull Rider Series

    • Let’s Ride: National Day of the Cowboy

      Posted at 2:05 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on July 23, 2022

      Yesterday I wrote an introduction to this post instead of adding it here to avoid what would be a longer post. It’s already long! Grab a beverage and enjoy. The post has been updated since the original.

      The fourth Saturday in July is National Day of the Cowboy. Be sure to check out the events they plan for this day, and more at the Empire Ranch Foundation.

      Back in 2005, to make sure it stays that way, the organization National Day of the Cowboy (NDOC) sponsored a bill in the Wyoming House and Senate to preserve and celebrate cowboy culture and history in that state, attaching an eponymous holiday to be observed on the fourth Saturday in July…

      To read more, click the link:

      https://nationaltoday.com/national-day-of-the-cowboy/

      National Today

      #NationalDayOfTheCowboy

      Cowboy Lover that I Am

      You know I’m jumping on this! Ha, too funny! I’m learned a few things since I began writing contemporary western romance. So for your reading pleasure, I present to you my take on the cowboy on their special day. Remember, I’m focusing mainly on MY take, which may not be the same as yours.

      Mostly, I’m dealing with fiction today. However, a whole lot of facts here are true. Images are from Pixabay unless otherwise stated. Credit for the Featured Image at the top: Photo by Brett Sayles on Pexels.com. In the shameless promotion of showing my book covers, all of my covers have been created by award winning cover designer Dawné Dominique, at DusktilDawn Designs. 

      Why I Create Cowboy Heroes:

      What’s not to love? I reckon this post is for anyone who loves a cowboy. I couldn’t create this if I didn’t love them myself. It doesn’t matter if they’re single, married, head-over-heels in love, or dads. Scowling or smiling, fists balled to protect what they love, or gently holding a child’s hand, I think they’re the sexiest men alive. That’s my opinion. I know everyone doesn’t think so. Let me have fun on this day. I hope you read this with an open mind and know it’s all in fun.

      We’ll start with the basics from the ground up:

      Let’s put some boots on our guy’s feet. The cowboy boot fits nicely into the stirrup. They’re sturdy for whatever jobs he has to take care of during the day or night. He has more than one pair of boots. Sometimes you’ll find his boots to be dusty and worn—his favorites, but sometimes they’ll be shiny and new. Some ranchers are now wearing lace-up boots for working.

      He’ll spill coffee on them, step in horse or cattle manure–depending on what he raises, or do a two-step on the dance floor. Hey, readers… Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. That’s why they make soap and hand sanitizer. He’s your guy. When he’s dog-tired after a long day of hard work, feel free to pull them off for him. He’ll thank ya for it. *Wink* Remember to thank him for it, when he does the same for you. He will on occasion.

      Tight jeans. Loose-fittin’ jeans. Dirty, ripped, or dress jeans… Oh, come on. Need I say more? Add a pair of chaps and my eyes will bug out.

      Speaking for myself

      I like an oval belt buckle holding those jeans up on their waist. However, some cowboys don’t wear belts for fear of something catching on them while working. I’m torn here, for with no belt, the jeans ride lower on the waist. When he lifts a saddle on a horse, or bends over with a hoof pick, you might be lucky enough to get a peek at that abdomen and sexy back you can’t wait to run your nails over.

      Oh, we can’t forget his t-shirt with the sleeves tight against bulging biceps. Cowboys with dad bods have bulging biceps too. Hard work, is hard work. Young or old, he’s dedicated to hard work. After giving a horse a bath, expect a little water on the shirt. Should I explain the wet t-shirt?

      Flannel shirts with the sleeves turned up a couple rolls and open in the front isn’t so bad, either. But, wow, when your cowboy wears a dress shirt and clean jeans, hold him tight when you go out. Be prepared for a lot of ogling. Don’t be surprised if he casually looks back, but don’t worry, he’s true to you. However, he might deck another cowboy for getting a little too touchy-feely with you.

      A hint of stubble on the face or clean-shaven works for me. How about you? Chances are, you’ll find a little more than a hint of scruff after a couple long, tired days. Concerning beards, here’s a brief conversation between my heroine and hero in a work in progress. They haven’t seen each other for three and a half years. Due to circumstances beyond their control, she is staying with him, only at the moment. Not with him per se, but on his ranch:

      He draped his flannel shirt over the chair and took a bite of his donut. “Better eat the scrambled eggs while they’re still good, or I’ll take them out to the pigs.”

      Pigs? She handed him the mug of coffee complete with milk. “You wear a beard now?”

      He laughed and wiped powdered sugar from his mustache and donut crumbs from his beard. “Not normally. I haven’t shaved in four days. Do I look like hell?”

      “More like a lumberjack, but that’s not a bad thing.” She chuckled.

      Copyright 2022 Mary J. McCoy-Dressel/Mary J. Dressel

      You might have to get used to a little whisker-burn now and then. Go without shaving whatever needs shaving for a couple days. He’ll get the picture.  😉

      Oh, readers, when our cowboy sets his jaw in confidence or stubbornness, you know he means business. But so do we, so it evens out. His attitude or mood isn’t always going to be congenial. He has bad days too, and sometimes he can be downright miserable to be around.

      This man’s smile? Mmm, how about quirked lips when he questions something you said? A side smile? I can tell you, my knees buckle when he shoots that dangerous grin my way. Ooohhhh, what about his to-die-for wanton smile? You know the one where it shows in his eyes, too? The one he gives when you wonder what he’s up to next? But, goodness, when his face lights up with that special look, it TELLS you what he’s up to next. When he smiles at you in this way, you know your feet won’t be on the floor much longer. Am I right? Sigh. Who moved my fan? (I’ll use one of my own cowboys for an example–Caulder “Hotness” McCutchen, my sexy alpha bull rider.)

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel books, brand-new Bull Rider Series Cover banner 2021, cowboys, western setting, snow
       The Bull Rider Series. This entire series features the same couple–Velia and Caulder.

      It doesn’t matter if those sexy kissable lips are full, soft, chapped, or sunkissed sweet. When it comes to kissing them, you know they’re a perfect match for yours.

      Graphic designed by me.

      Hat Hair

      Mmm, his hair. Hair and eyes are the first things I notice. He might wear his hair on the longer side. Who has time for a haircut? He’s too busy tending to a ranch, cutting hay on a prairie, riding horses and driving cattle across a wide divide. He might be fixing fences in a dusty desert or monsoon, or trying to stay on a bull or bronc for eight seconds. Depending on his mood, he’s comfortable wearing his hair neatly combed when the occasion arises, or wind-blown messy when he’s busy. Whichever way he chooses to wear it, it’ll end up looking like hat-hair by the end of the day.

      clarencealford  @Pixabay

      Either neat and tidy or wild and free, if a shock of hair falls over his forehead, I can’t think of a more perfect excuse to get closer than to move in and brush it back. He’ll appreciate it if we leave our palm to rest on the side of his face, for a minute anyway. Whew!

      Last but not least, let’s not forget the Stetson, or any brand of cowboy hat, in off-white or black, depending on the occasion. Straw works for those hot days. If you’re wearing a hat, make sure you get the right tilt to your head in order to kiss him. Enjoy.

      mary j mccoy-dressel western romance
      Graphic created by me at PicMonkey.com

      Since it is our cowboy’s special day, we’ll continue. Let’s give him a dog and a horse or two, preferably more. After his dog and horses, we’re giving this cowboy a cowgirl, or whoever he chooses to love.

      Romance

      When evening comes, if he’s in by then, of course, he’ll be contented to settle in beside you, wearing a subtle fragrance whether it’s aftershave or your favorite cologne. Could be ranch life. My cowboys are sexy, hard working men, and they aren’t always going to be smelling like they walked out of a shower. Don’t let that deter you, but a little hint won’t hurt. An offer to accompany him in the shower isn’t a bad idea. ❤ ❤ ❤

      More than likely, for dinner he’ll like his favorite carryout, spicy food to match his persona, or a meat and potato meal at the end of the day. Sometimes he’ll surprise us, and prepare a delicious meal. Maybe burgers on the grill or steak with candlelight. He’ll enjoy a shot of whiskey, brandy, tequila, or Scotch, and maybe sometimes a glass of wine or a longneck. Even milk.

      At the end of the day with our cowboy, we know, besides his family, it’s us and the kids he holds in his heart…along with his dog and horses maybe not in a particular order. 🙂 Finally, when you get up Sunday morning, chances are after chores and breakfast, y’all will head to church. But think about it… At the end of the day, your cowboy is curling up next to you. The next move is yours.

      Background Image is from Shutterstock. Created by me at PicMonkey. Rose graphic – PicMonkey.

      REMEMBER, this is MY take on the cowboy, and this was written for fun. I hope you enjoyed reading.

      Celebrate National Day of the Cowboy the 4th Saturday of July.

      Remember what they say… Save a horse, ride a… *Smile*

      Thanks so much for reading, and an extra special thanks if you’ve read this more than once!

      Posted in #AmWriting, #WritersLife, Bull Rider Series, Canyon Junction: Hearts in Love Series, Double Dutch Ranch Series, national day of the cowboy, Two-Five Ranch Outlaws | 5 Comments | Tagged #NationalDayOfTheCowboy, boots, bronc riding, bull riders, Bull Riding, cattle ranch, cowboy, cowboy hats, dog, Empire Ranch Foundation, horses, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, national day of the cowboy, ranchers, Romance, series romance, sexy cowboys, western hero
    • A Book Title, BINGO, and a Snippet

      Posted at 4:26 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on June 24, 2020

      I missed Book Hooks Wednesday again. The post almost made it, yadda yadda yadda…

      This isn’t the snippet I had written for Book Hooks. Instead, this one stemmed from an upcoming post I trashed about Book Titles, which included Hey, Cowboy. The scene you’re about to read is why the title for Hey, Cowboy, Book two is what it is. However this scene is from Howdy, Ma’am, Book One. The snippet explains.

      In the beginning, I didn’t want either of these titles to be for the books, but in the end, they were the perfect choice. I have no regrets. 💙

       

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel Books, western romance author, Website Header New Bull Rider Series Covers


       

      Caulder and Velia got to know each other before the season began. She fought the attraction forming between them, but she only fooled herself.

      Set up: Velia did her best to deny what had happened between them the night before, on their first night on the road, no less. She promised herself and him, it would never happen again. We turn the page to the day after: Modified a bit from the original.

      As soon as Caulder came out to practice wearing Wranglers and a shirt with the sleeves cut out, and pumped muscles filling her viewfinder, she almost choked on her own lust. “Focus, dammit!” He strutted around the arena like he owned each grain of sand. He went to every bull and talked to them. When he came nose to nose with one big, ugly critter, she had it in her sights.

      She videotaped him around the horses, patting them on the back, and sliding his hand down their flanks. Like he slid his hand down my flank. “Focus.” She got him on video when he wandered to the other side of the arena. Yes, she got one fine part of him strolling away from her—his tight and toned, nice-looking, feel good ass. She stomped. “Why, dammit, why?” Her camera dangled from the neck strap as she watched him.

      She followed and caught him inside the doorway. “Hey, cowboy?”

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Bull Rider Series new cover, western romance

      He turned toward her with a slow glance over her body, and she was aware of the longing in his eyes. She hurried to him and slid her arms around his neck.

      End of excerpt.

      And that, my friends, is where Hey, Cowboy got its title.

      Thanks for reading. Find more on the Bull Rider Series book page.


      Here’s a cute story about the title for Howdy, Ma’am.

      A while back, a long while back, when this book was new, I sent a gift basket to a reader conference with this book included. Cover models were leading a BINGO game. The card squares had book titles on them. I don’t know which cover model, but I heard from the winner of the basket, that the model had a lot of fun calling my book title for this gift basket. When he drew out HOWDY, MA’AM for a spot on the BINGO cards, he’d repeat the title over and over with his deep voice and drawl. He, and the book, got a lot of attention. It made me glad to have kept the title!

      Enjoy the rest of your week!

      Posted in #AmWriting, Bull Rider Series | 5 Comments | Tagged #WritersLife, A Book Title BINGO and a Snippet, Book Hooks, bull rider series, cowboy, Hey cowboy, Howdy Ma'am, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance
    • #MFRWhooks Book Hooks: Hard to Refuse

      Posted at 2:15 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on March 25, 2020
      Mary J McCoy-Dressel Books, western romance author, Bull Rider Series boxed set webpage

      Book Hooks Blog Hop

      ~*~

      Howdy, Ma’am

      Bull Rider Series #1

      Sparks will fly!

      This snippet is from Chapter Two. The cowboy has a proposition any photographer would find hard to refuse. This is a three book series featuring the same hero and heroine. Readers have asked for another book in this series. It’s possible there will be a fourth book. Note: This is another book that has been through multiple revisions since its publication in 2012. My writing has changed and this book deserved a new chance. I had new covers made for the series too.


      “It pays a lot of money. Can you handle a nice income?”

      “I can… But why would I have to leave?” How good was his hearing? She had to ask twice.

      “You need to travel with me. You’re apparently used to traveling.”

      “I have prior engagements to take care of. I’ve already been paid half of my fee for some upcoming shoots. I’d have to take care of things before I do anything.” She twirled some ringlets of hair around her finger. “What are you thinking? I can pick up and ride off with you?”

      “Well, ma’am, it might be kind of nice if you rode off with me. You know what they say about riding off into the sunset?” He snickered. “You have to admit, the sunsets here are pretty nice.” He swept his hair back from his eyes and grinned.

      Humph! Velia rolled her eyes then cleared her throat. She stood.

      “Seriously, the season starts in February. I’d expect you there throughout the season which runs to November.”

      “Almost a year?” Could she have sounded any more shocked?

      He stood beside her and plopped his hat atop his head. “Yep. Nine months, almost a year if you count now.”

      Velia appraised him. Lord, to imagine photographing this man for a year. Her mind whirled; her imagination running wild with anticipation, with, with… She pictured his bulging pectorals sweaty and pumped. “Umm…can I think about it for a few days?”

      “You got time.”

      She tilted her head in question. “How’d you find me? I mean, for the record.”

      “Hey, stopped to get a tire fixed on the way to the Catalina Foothills. Saw your sign. It’s a whim.” He smirked. “Or destiny.”


      mary j mccoy-dressel, western romance

      About the Book:

      Bull rider Caulder McCutchen has a good chance of winning the converted buckle this year, knowing he has to ride harder, go bigger, or go home. Winning consumes him, but it doesn’t take away the pain from a tremendous loss less than two years ago. He hires a feisty photographer to travel the bull riding circuit with him for a season. A little extra publicity can’t hurt, and she’s easy on the eyes. When he finds himself passionately attracted to her, will this sassy little Italian prove to be just what his claim to fame needs—or a disastrous distraction?

      Velia Armano had the strength to walk away from an abusive husband but that doesn’t mean she’s free of him. She moves from Chicago to Tucson, Arizona and opens her own photography studio. Six months into her well-ordered life alone, a hunky cowboy saunters in with his howdy, ma’am and flame blue eyes, offering a job any photographer would find hard to refuse. She accepts his offer and discovers they both have their own obstacles to overcome. While trying to resist his heated embrace and gentle nature, she hopes to find the right answer before the season ends—to remain in her self-appointed exile, or give in to a happily ever after.

      When the season ends, who wins the real prize?

      Night Owl Reviews, Top Pick Review, Howdy, Ma'am, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance Bull Rider Series Website Page

      Amazon Purchase Link

      Universal Link

      Authors, have you written a series featuring the same hero and heroine?


      Book Hooks is a weekly meme hosted by Marketing for Romance Writers as part of the MFRW Authors Blog. It’s a chance each week to hook readers on your current WIP or any previously published book. Please join participating authors at this LINK.

      Thank you for visiting!

      #StaySafeStayHome

      Posted in #MFRWhooks, Bull Rider Series, Howdy Ma'am | 17 Comments | Tagged #AmWriting, #MFRWauthor, #MFRWhooks, Book Hooks: Hard to Refuse, bull rider series, howdy, Ma'am, mary j mccoy dressel
    • Short Snippet Saturday: A Merry Christmas at Love House

      Posted at 8:42 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on December 21, 2019

      Hello, blog readers. Our Bull Rider Series snippet today is fitting for the holidays. This series follows the story of one couple through happy times, sad times, horrific times, steamy times, and everything in between. My hero and heroine have been together for seven years now. Join Velia Armano, her bull rider Caulder McCutchen, their families–including Caulder’s cousin *Jase and Aunt Judy from the Double Dutch Ranch series. A bull riding friend, Reece “Foley” Wilson is also in attendance as they sit down to Christmas dinner at Love House—their log home in the Allegheny Mountains in Pennsylvania.

      Christmas at Love House:

      A Bittersweet Interlude, Book #3.

      ALERT: I decided not to avoid some SPOILERS in this heartwarming excerpt. However, I did make a couple changes to keep some surprises for those planning to read the series.

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Bull Rider Series new cover, western romance

      Caulder came through the doorway and sauntered to the refrigerator for the ale. He set the bottles on a wooden tray waiting on the island counter and wrapped his arms around Velia. “How you doing, babe? Everything smells delicious. You’ve outdone yourself again.”

      She took a minute away from perfecting the ham presentation, to turn into his embrace. The familiar smell of his cologne lingering with a bit of sweat, was one she’d never tire of. “I had so much help. We’ll be ready as soon as I carry in the ham. Will you gather everyone?”

      “Most are already at the table. These smells are hard to resist, as are you.” He gave her a kiss on the forehead. Caulder lifted the tray with ale and waited at the door for her to walk in together. She set the platter in front of his place at the head of the table. He opened the bottles and handed one to who wanted ale then pulled her chair out, but she held up a finger.

      “I need my camera. I’ll be right back.” She rushed into the office and came back with it. Caulder waited at her chair to the right of him, but she pulled it away from the table. “Come here.” She pressed her hand against his shoulder to stand on the chair. “Okay, take a seat, sweetheart.” Velia peered at their entire family around the large rectangular table that needed two dining leaves added.

      “Mommy, why are you standing on the chair?”

      “Taking a picture. Smile, sweetie. Let’s see that McCutchen charm, Granny Garnet.”

      “Thank you for another beautiful holiday, you sweet girl.” Granny’s glowing smile could’ve warmed the whole room. Velia had grown to love this dear lady.

      Kase cocked his head and gave her one of the biggest, toothiest grins.

      “Up here, everyone.” Perfect. Click. Focus. Click again. “Thank you. I’ll send one to all of you.”

      “But you aren’t in it. Set the timer, so you’ll be in it, too.” Caulder lifted her off the chair.

      Velia set the camera on a shelf, peeked around to the viewfinder to be sure everyone was in the picture, set the timer, and rushed back. At the table, Caulder yanked her onto his lap and splayed his hand over her abdomen. “Say giggles everyone!”

      After the shot, Caulder stood and lifted his glass, first to Velia then slowly peering over the crowd of people at their table. He winked at his grandmother. “Merry Christmas. As Velia would say, buon appetito!”

      Glasses remained high as everyone around the table, repeated, “Buon appetito! Salute.”

      They tapped their glasses together. Even Kase lifted his glass of milk and tapped it against anyone who reciprocated. His outgoing personality caused chills to spread from Velia’s head to her toes. She smiled at Caulder, met him halfway, and their lips touched in a heartfelt kiss.

      Laughter, chatter, giggles, and Christmas carols in the background all mingled and filled the room. Velia observed Foley lean over to give Natale a kiss. The smiles they had for each other echoed love. The same look in Foley’s eyes was what she saw in Caulder’s eyes when he looked at her. Real love had been ignited at Love House during this holiday interlude.

      Velia smiled warmly as she glanced across the table. Granny’s gold tablecloth with silver thread intermingled, captured the reflection of candlelight.

      All of their family together brought an overwhelming peacefulness to her soul, but when she peered at her own son, tears welled. His messy, dark hair went all over the place–in his eyes, inside his collar, and poking out from behind his ears–like his dads. Caulder cut a piece of ham for himself but picked it up, holding it in front of Kase’s mouth. Instead of giving it to their boy, he teased by popping it into his own.

      Kase giggled at his dad, then muttered, “That was mine, papa.”

      Velia picked up her glass of sparkling juice, stood, and gave Caulder a squeeze. With a cheery smile, she surveyed those around the table. “I love each and every one of you so much. I’ll reiterate Caulder’s greetings. Merry, merry Christmas.” Her dad nodded and gave her a wink.

      Pride beamed from his face. “Velia, dear, this seems like a good time to tell you something.” He held his glass of wine toward those at the table. “Your mamma and I have decided to look for a part-time place around here. Maybe a time-share.”

      “We’d love to have you here,” said Aiden, Caulder’s dad. “I’ll put you in touch with a good friend of ours from way back. Tell us when you’re ready.”

      “It won’t be for a while,” Lidia said. “Maybe by the time Caulder retires from bull riding. We’ve talked about this for some time. We’ll go to Italy every couple of years, and of course, visit with our boys and sweet nieces and nephew in California.”

      Velia remained standing, trembling now due to the joy bubbling over inside. What would they do when Dante had children, or even Bobby if he found the right woman who wanted to settle at the winery? Her parents might have to get a couple time-shares. Sitting again, she stroked her throat. “Now, let’s finish dinner. The girls made tiramisu for dessert, and I can tell you it tastes fantastic!” She glimpsed Foley. “I have to agree with something Foley had said last night. ‘This is the best Christmas.’” She caught her breath before continuing. “I’ll miss you all so much when you’re gone.”

      “Don’t worry, darlin’. I’ll keep you busy on the road for the next half a year at least before you have to come back to this lonely house.”

      “Honey,” Velia said as she lovingly caressed his arm. “I want everyone here as much as possible, and I have a feeling it will never be lonely at Love House. A Merry Christmas night it is indeed!”

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel books, western romance author. Image for website and retailers.

      *NOTE: For those unfamiliar, Caulder is a cousin to the Carlson cowboys. However, these series are not connected, but, on occasion, the cousins will crossover or are mentioned in each other’s books. Christmas at Love House is one of the books.

      Thank you for reading! Merry Christmas.

      Wishing you tons of peaceful joy and happiness during the holiday in whichever way you celebrate–Kwanzaa Hanukkah, Christmas and more…

      La vita è bella. Ciao!

      Posted in #AmWriting, Bull Rider Series, Short Snippet Saturday | 7 Comments | Tagged bull rider series, christmas, Christmas at Love House: A Bittersweet Interlude, Fictional family Christmas, Holidays, mary j mccoy dressel, saga, western romance
    • Short Snippet Saturday: Easy Feeling of Love

      Posted at 8:59 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on June 8, 2019
      long stem red rose laying on sheet music, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Western Romance, Blog Post Short Snippet Saturday

      Easy Feeling of Love is the title though I could’ve added: But for how long?

      This snippet is from the second book in the Bull Rider Series.

      Set Up: Velia’s first season on the road with the bull rider is over. We’re between season one and the next season, if there is one. Caulder accompanied her back to Tucson where Velia rents an apartment and has her photography business set up, run now by her business partner. Caulder’s SUV had remained at a teammates mansion in the Catalina Foothills where Caulder had lived for a few months last year before the season had started, and when he and Velia met. In this scene, they’re going to pick up his vehicle, or so she thinks… Until all hell breaks loose not long after, which you won’t see in this short snippet.

      This explanation is almost as long as the snippet! Sorry. ❤

      Steamy romance series. (Not the snippet)

      First, let’s see what the book is about. Shortened Blurb:

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Bull Rider Series new cover, western romance

      Bull Rider Series 2

      Hey, Cowboy #2
      A break in the bull riding season finds Velia and Caulder back in Tucson. Family, friends, and rowdy cowboys are brought together to share in joy, and sometimes pain. Happiness is within reach. They need to be strong enough to overcome enemies plotting against Velia’s family—and a possible career-ending injury for Caulder.


      In Howdy, Ma’am, Book One, Caulder hired her for a season. Now, the season is over… What will become of them?

      Beginning of Chapter Three:

      The drive back to the Catalina Foothills at night evoked a sense of smallness, living in an untamed world under an expansive star-studded sky. The sun had already set and the sky changed from deep blue to an intense violet twilight.

      Cacti and palm trees surrounded the highway, standing like guards in silhouetted form. Even being a photographer, she wouldn’t be able to capture an image this awe-inspiring if she used all the photo manipulation tools she had. She grasped Caulder’s hand and was carried away with the moment, overwhelmed with the easy feeling of love for the man beside her.

      He strummed his thumb over her fingers. “We’ll sit on the patio when we get back if you’d like.” Caulder gave a quick laugh. “Kind of like old times?”

      “Yes, I’d like to, but this time with your hand in mine.” Glancing at him, she observed his sexy profile in the dim glow of the lighted dashboard. Good-looking from any angle. What makes me so…so emotional tonight?

      Peacefulness came into her life as slowly as a feather drops through air, but now it was here. She craved it after hardening her heart for a time. They were almost like different people now. Her torment long over.

      She hoped Caulder no longer hurt so much inside, from his tremendous loss. Loving him is what she’d do until he saw it as a beautiful memory. A memory of the time he’d had…with them. Yes, love him forever is what she’d do. He appeared to be nodding off. “Are you falling asleep? Shall I drive the rest of the way?”

      “No, I’m fine,” he said. “I have a dull headache that won’t go away.”


      Thanks for reading!

      Have a nice weekend.

      Posted in #AmWriting, Bull Rider Series, Short Snippet Saturday | 10 Comments | Tagged #AmWriting, Arizona, bull rider, bull rider series, cowboy, Hey Cowboy Book 2, mary j mccoy dressel, Short Snippet Saturday, western romance
    • Short Snippet Saturday: An Accident

      Posted at 11:28 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on March 2, 2019
      long stem red rose laying on sheet music, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Western Romance, Blog Post Short Snippet Saturday

      I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait to see the end of winter this year. We’ve had so much snow. It’s hard to believe our snowfall is below average, so far. The whole country is getting slapped with awful weather. What will spring bring? Happy March!

      This snippet comes from Hey, Cowboy, Book #2.

      In the back of this book in my Note to Readers, I stated: Writing this book brought out emotions I forgot I had from joy to heart wrenching pain. I laughed. I cried. I held my breath. I loved.

      In Howdy, Ma’am, Book One, the book opens with Velia returning from Italy after attending her Aunt Dafne’s funeral. Torre is Velia’s cousin and Dafne’s son.

      At the end of this snippet you’ll see the word zio. This means uncle in Italian. I was told by the person who checked my Italian in this series, that words like zio, zia, mamma, papà aren’t capitalized like they are in English. At first, it was hard to get used to writing them without capital letters, but I wanted to be true to my heroine’s use of her language.

      A name has been changed, and a scene has been modified so nothing is given away.

      Sorry for the long introduction.


      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Bull Rider Series new cover, western romance

      Bull Rider Series 2

      “We have to get things straightened out here.” They backed Roy and Caulder against the wall while the sheriff handcuffed Rosemary. He nodded toward Caulder and said to a deputy, “He’s the homeowner, set him free.”

      “Get the handcuffs off him, he’s family.” Caulder tilted his head toward Roy.

      Sheriff Dawson instructed the deputy to release him, too.

      Velia scanned the room. Two had been shot and there were men with guns. She understood their need to secure the place.

      “Anyone else in the house?” asked the deputy who had been there previously to take a report.

      “My cousin? No!” She turned to Caulder. “Is Torre in the…safe room?”

      He gave a short nod.

      “We’ll have to get him, ma’am,” said the sheriff. “Show me where he is.”

      “But my father. Let me remain with him.” Her shoulders shook from sobbing. “My cousin is s-safe for now. He’s only a boy. Please…I don’t want him to see this.”

      “Everyone needs to be in one place until we figure out what’s going on here, and to make sure he’s okay.”

      “I’ll go,” Roy said. He directed the sheriff toward the safe room.

      The EMTs arrived, and they attended to her father while two other techs attended to the second intruder.

      Caulder picked Velia up from the floor. “Come on, baby, let them do their job.” He wrapped his arms around her and held tight.

      One of the techs worked on her father. “We have to move him now.” They rolled his listless body over and prepared him for the trip, then lifted him to the stretcher and adjusted the straps around his body.

      The sheriff returned and spoke to Velia. “Your man is in the other room with the boy and a deputy. I’ll get you to the hospital. You’ll bring the boy with you. We have to question Mr. McCutchen and Mr. Bianco before they can join you.”

      Velia placed both hands on her head. “Are you arresting Caulder and Roy?”

      “We need to question them, ma’am. This is an obvious home invasion, and it looks like you all did what you had to do to protect yourselves.”

      He directed Caulder to remain with a deputy and another one stayed with Roy. Sheriff Dawson took Velia by the elbow and got Torre from the other room. He escorted them to his vehicle.

      Velia held her cousin close against her as they walked outside. The sight of flashing lights and ambulances shattered her heart into tiny pieces. To think this boy had to go through something so traumatic once again in his life. She dropped into the back seat of the sheriff’s SUV, never removing her arm from around Torre’s shoulder. “I’m so sorry, Torre,” she said sobbing. “Oh, honey, I know you were frightened.”

      “Roy and Caulder told me to stay hidden. Those people wanted to hurt you. I heard gunshots.”

      Velia pulled back. “And you listened. I’m so thankful you listened to them. I’m proud of you.” She released him yet smoothed hair away from his face. His dark eyes held fear and questions.

      “What happened to your face?”

      Her face must have looked a mess. “An accident.” How many times had he heard that excuse from his own mother before she died?

      “Will zio Ric be okay?”

      “I don’t know.” She swiped at tears then embraced him. This must have brought back horrid memories for him. “Torre, I’m just so sorry. So sorry.” Please, let my father be okay.


      I switched the featured book I had started with this month back to the Bull Rider Series. Mostly, because I’d like to expose the new covers as much as possible.

      Thank you for reading. Enjoy your weekend.

      Stay warm and dry.

      Posted in #AmWriting, #WritersLife, Bull Rider Series, Short Snippet Saturday | 8 Comments | Tagged bull rider series, Hey cowboy, Howdy Ma'am, mary j mccoy dressel, Short Snippet Saturday, western romance
    • #AmWriting Quickie Update & Short Snippet Saturday

      Posted at 11:01 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on July 7, 2018

      Happy Saturday!

      It seems I’ve missed another week of Marketing for Romance Writers 52-Week Blog Challenge or #MFRWauthor. I wrote it. Honest, I did, but that’s as far as it got. I wasn’t into the topic, anyway. Yesterday turned out to be a busy day though I didn’t accomplish a lot if that makes sense. Last week I missed signing up for the blog challenge, and as you know, I posted it.

      I’m packing and writing. Packing and writing. Packing and writing. You get the idea. The new apartment isn’t mine, yet, but I have to pack as if it is. Today, is the day I check out the place and talk to the manager. Then I’ll do whatever it takes from that point on. Either way, I am moving somewhere. In the meantime, I’m playing the waiting game while– ha-ha– packing and writing while taking care of daily chores and necessities. One book will soon be going to the editor. (YES, it finally has a title.)

      In the next few weeks, if I have something to say, I’ll come back to post and say hi, and I’ll check your blogs, because I’d miss you if I didn’t. Readers, you can contact me, and I’ll reply, but give me a couple days.

       

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel books, brand-new Bull Rider Series Cover banner 2021, cowboys, western setting, snow
      Bull Rider Series

      Find all my books in one place with blurbs and buy links in series order on my page at Books2Read or click on the image above to go to the Bull Rider Series page here. Available at Apple, Nook, Amazon, and Kobo.

      Since it’s Saturday and Christmas in July, I’m posting an excerpt from my holiday novel, Christmas at Love House: A Bittersweet Interlude. This scene is not close to sounding Christmassy, but hey, that’s how my Bull Rider Series rolls.

      Okay, now that business talk is out of the way, let’s get to the snippet…


      Caulder is a cousin to Jase, Tristan, and Dane Carlson from the Double Dutch Ranch Series, but these books aren’t connected per se. However, on occasion the cousins appear in each others books. Jase is visiting Love House for Christmas this year. Jase is who Caulder is talking to in the first paragraph.

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel

      In this scene, a fun outing turned to devastation in an instant. Bull rider Caulder McCutchen is a brave, strapping guy, but not so much when he’s in fear of losing everything he loves. Again.

      Modified from the original to avoid spoilers. 

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance, blog post Christmas at Love House, Bull Rider Series 3,

      See you all when I see you! Enjoy the weekend.

      Posted in #AmWriting, #WritersLife, Bull Rider Series, Short Snippet Saturday | 10 Comments | Tagged #AmWriting, bull rider series, Christmas at Love House: A Bittersweet Interlude, Double Dutch Ranch Series, Marketing for Romance Writers 52-Week Blog Challenge, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Short Snippet Saturday, western romance
    • #AmWriting Short Snippet Saturday:

      Posted at 10:56 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on June 2, 2018

      It’s been a while since I’ve hosted Velia Armano from the Bull Rider Series for a Short Snippet Saturday post. This one comes from Howdy, Ma’am.

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Western Romance, Blog Post Short Snippet Saturday

      Set-up: A couple days before this snippet, Velia’s father and two of his men had flown in from Chicago to accompany her to court in Tucson, Arizona. While in court the day before this snippet, her ex had threatened her. Her dad sent one of his, ahem, men home with Velia in case Justin followed her back to where she rented an upstairs apartment from an elderly couple. It also happened to be the first night Velia had invited Caulder to dinner. Caulder had arrived right after a horrific incident to find Velia passed out on the floor. This snippet takes place the next morning.


      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Bull Rider Series new cover, western romance

      Bull Rider Series 1

      Revised from the original to avoid spoilers.

      Ric and Lidia Armano arrived at the door the next day. Roy promptly followed his boss to the car where they met Nero. They stood talking for some time.

      Later, she walked back and forth from her window to the door, debating on going out. Her mother sat on the bed, watching her pace across the room. Velia’s head pain had eased, but her bruises had worsened. When her mom saw them, she cried, and when her dad saw them, he’d probably send for his lawyer to take care of Justin in court…or otherwise.

      Justin.

      Why couldn’t he leave well enough alone? What would he have done if Roy hadn’t been here? Would he have hurt Alice and Edward? Would she be alive today?

      She wrapped her arms around herself to ward off the chill from the horrible thoughts. Lidia hugged her and Velia cried. Her mother’s familiar, loving arms comforted her, and she let it all out as her mom smoothed her hair and cuddled her like a child.

      “Your father will be in soon. You can’t hide from him forever.” She handed Velia a scented lace handkerchief like she’d done when she was small. She inhaled the perfume that spoke madre. Velia wiped her eyes then went to the bathroom to hold a wet washcloth over them and reapplied makeup to the non-swollen eye.

      She headed downstairs when Edward let her father inside. Her dad wrapped his arms around her. His eyes misted when he saw the bruises. “He has done this before. I do not understand why you didn’t tell me. You’re a strong woman. Why did you put up with this, Velia?”

      Velia wanted to think up a lie, but she had done enough lying while living with Justin.

      “Why did you not tell me?”

      She whispered, “I know what would’ve happened.”

      “Sì, and then…” He pointed to her face. “This would not have happened.”

      “I’m sorry.” Velia lowered her voice. “I couldn’t allow something to happen to him.”

      “So you sacrificed yourself?” His voice grew louder.

      “I suppose. What’s going to happen to Justin now?”

      Ric shook his head. “Our lawyer will encourage the prosecutor to ask for time in jail for assault and breaking and entering.”

      “But he didn’t break in, padre.”

      “Yes, he did. Did he not break in, Roy?” her father asked.

      “Yes, sir,” Roy replied. “He nearly broke the door down.”

      Velia glanced at Roy. She knew it had to be this way. “He’s a crazy fool. Do you think he’ll get out on bail? I have to leave for my tour with Caulder soon, and I don’t want to worry about Justin following us.”

      Ric placed his hand on her shoulder. “I can’t say for sure, but Lauren will do what he can to keep him in jail.”

      “If he gets out, I won’t go with Caulder. I’ll be putting him and who knows who else in danger.”

      “I understand this, angel, but Justin will never hurt you again.” Ric lowered his voice and embraced her. “You’ll be safe, even if I have to send Roy on tour with you. Si?”

      Velia knew if her dad said it, it would be true, but she’d never allow Roy to babysit her on the road. She didn’t want to know what else her dad had planned concerning Justin.


      Learn more about the Bull Rider Series on the series page here. Available at Amazon.

      Meet Velia on the Meet Our Heroines page.

      Read an interview with Velia.

      Thanks for reading. Enjoy your weekend.

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Western Romance, Blog Post Short Snippet Saturday

      If one dream should fall and break into a thousand pieces, never be afraid to pick one of those pieces up and begin again. ~Flavia Weedn, Flavia and the Dream Maker, ©Flavia.com

      Posted in #AmWriting, Bull Rider Series, Short Snippet Saturday | 4 Comments | Tagged #AmReading, #AmWriting, bull rider series, contemporary romance, Full Length Novel, Howdy Ma'am bk #1, mary j mccoy dressel, series romance, Short Snippet Saturday, western romance series
    • NOT Short Snippet Saturday: McCutchen Genes ~Bull Rider Series 3

      Posted at 1:20 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on October 29, 2017

      Hi. I know this isn’t Saturday.  🙂

      My edits are back! I’ll be busy finishing them for Finding Kimber and finalizing my second project. My newsletter went out last week with details about the new “something.”  ❤  I will spill the beans soon!

      WARNING: There are spoilers in this excerpt for those who plan on reading the first two books in the series. If you don’t care about that,  please know each one of my books is a complete story in itself, and they can be enjoyed without a cliffhanger ending. Christmas at Love House takes place four years after Hey, Cowboy, Book #2 ended.


       

      From Chapter Two: 

      Love House. McCutchen Ranch, Pennsylvania

      As they crested another hill, Velia halted him and clung tighter to his arm. “Look. The house is so pretty at Christmas, and the lights outlining it makes it look fairytale-like from this higher elevation.” Velia smiled up at him and Kase. “Oh, honey. Thank you so much for this.” Velia observed the landscape behind the house. Snow covered, rolling hills with tall pines that had lived there for decades, warmed her heart. “My life is complete.”

      ChristmasAtLoveHouse_MED

      “I did it all for you and this little guy. I’m glad it makes you happy.” He nudged her on.  At home, Caulder lowered his son to the porch then stood the tree against the building. “I’ll put the lights on before I leave. Let me put the tools away.”

      Velia patted Kase atop the head. “You cold, sweetie? We all need some hot chocolate.”
      Kase jumped off the step and nodded with a big smile that matched his dad’s. “Is Natale home?”

      “Yes, Natale’s here. They got in late last night, so I let her and Alba sleep.” Velia tickled his belly. “She and Alba will be excited to see you again this morning.”

      As Caulder turned toward the family barn, he looked over his shoulder. “Your cousins have grown into beautiful young ladies. I barely recognized Natale at the airport last night. And Torre? When I take him to Foley’s ranch, I’ll be beating off the cowgirls. He’s a dang good lookin’ young man.”

      “Make sure you beat the cowgirls off you!” Velia teased and chortled, observing Kase rolling around a snowball. “The girls are attractive. Natale resembles her mother. Can you believe she recently turned eighteen?” Velia still missed her zia Dafne when she allowed herself to think about her, but at least her cousins had adjusted to living at the family winery in California.

      “I’ll get us some hot chocolate and brunch.” Velia opened the door and Torre met her in the mudroom. “Will you be long, honey?” she asked Caulder before closing the steel back door.

      “Nope, give me time to put the tools away. Hey, by the way—you’re darn beautiful yourself with those rosy cheeks. Bellissima!” After a wink, he plodded through the snow toward the smallest of the barns.

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel

      Kase stopped right inside the doorway, stomping snow all over the grey slate flooring, and attempted to kick his boot off without success. “Mom, can I have a candy cane in my hot chocolate? Please? Pleassse?” he begged, dragging out the word to emphasize his need.

      She took his hand to move him into the room. “Take a seat on the bench. Maybe after brunch, honey. That’s a lot of sugar at one time.”

      He lifted his snowy palms. “Half a candy cane?”

      Velia laughed to herself. “All right.” He had his way of getting to her at times. “Torre, how are you this morning? Looking forward to your trip with Caulder tomorrow?”

      “I’m good but still tired,” Torre answered. “Jet lag. For sure, I’m looking forward to bull riding with Caulder.”

      “No one said anything about bull riding, young man.” Velia knelt to remove Kase’s boots and snowsuit before he fell on his bottom trying to himself. Finishing with him, she removed her own jacket and hat.

      “But, Velia, it’s in my blood now—like Caulder, I tell you. It calls me.” Torre followed her to the kitchen harboring a round oak table with six high-back chairs, an island, and a long, L-shaped granite countertop with many cabinets on the top and bottom. He removed a cup and chose a bold pod to make a single cup of coffee.

      “Torre, I saw that coming years ago.” Though McCutchen blood didn’t run in his veins, he was correct. Bull riding had hooked him when he was fifteen years old. Her brother Bobby didn’t know it, but Torre practiced bull riding on the side at every opportunity. Caulder had let that slip by accident. “There you go,” Velia said to Kase. “All warmed up now. You go to the bathroom then we’ll eat.”
      Kase ran into the bathroom ahead of her, pulled the zipper down on his jeans, and did what he had to do like a little man.

      “You’re growing up too fast.” Velia’s mouth went into a pout. She brushed her hair in front of the oval mirror over the single bowl sink. He’d be riding bulls before long. Not if she could help it, but living on the edge had to be in his McCutchen genes.


      Thanks for reading! I am so in love with the characters in this series. Yes, I can say that even if I did create them.  Err, it’s more like they created themselves. 🙂

      If interested:

      A little Christmas magic will be a welcome guest at Love House, but regardless if it arrives or not…during this bittersweet interlude—Velia and Caulder dare their happily-ever-after to be anything less than “forever.” Click for more info on the Bull Rider Series.

      Posted in #AmWriting, Bull Rider Series, Short Snippet Saturday | 3 Comments | Tagged #AmWriting, books, bull rider, Bull Rider Series #3, Bull Riding, Christmas at Love House: A Bittersweet Interlude, contemporary romance, cowboy, Full Length Novel, Hey Cowboy Bk 2, Howdy Ma'am bk #1, mary j mccoy dressel, Short Snippet Saturday, western romance
    • Short Snippet Saturday: Whoa There, Little Filly #AmWriting

      Posted at 1:13 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on May 20, 2017

      Hello! Today I’m bringing y’all a short snippet from Howdy, Ma’am, the first book in the Bull Rider Series. I do love the cowboy hero in this book. He and Velia sure have had a tough ride in the three books in this series.

      Set up:

      Velia divorced her first husband, Justin. Her dad accompanied her to the courthouse, along with two of the men who work for him. Justin had caused a scene in the courtroom. Because of Justin’s history of abuse, her dad sent one of his men, Roy Bianco, home with Velia after court. Caulder had been invited to dinner the next day, but there was an incident minutes before he arrived, and Velia ended up in the hospital. Roy and Caulder stay with her at home that night. She’ll soon be leaving with Caulder on the bull riding circuit.


      After Alice left, Velia went to the kitchen and got a wine glass from the cupboard.

      Caulder jumped up and hurried to her. “Whoa there, little filly, you can’t be drinking with that pain medication.” He slipped his arm around her waist.

      “I forgot.” She grasped the woodwork along the doorway.

      Roy came to assist Caulder with her, but Caulder picked her up and carried her to bed. Roy lingered right behind. “Is she okay?”

      “She’s dizzy.” He laid her on the bed and pulled the covers over her. “Maybe you should stay right here.”

      “I’m fine.” She grimaced then held her head. “Maybe not.”

      “Your pain pill is starting to work, Velia. Let it ease the pain and stop fighting western romance, mary j McCoy-Dresselagainst it.” Caulder rested one knee on the side of the bed and brushed the hair away from her face, gently running his knuckles along her cheek.

      She looked up at him. With the tender care everyone was giving to her, she felt more like a child than a grown woman, but the burning fire making its way over her body, reminded her she was no child. And neither was Caulder.

      “Rest while you can. We’ll be waking you soon.” He leaned forward and softly kissed her forehead.

      He stopped several inches from her face and stared into her eyes. Another heated rush fell over her. She wanted him to lie beside her and hold her in his arms. Velia closed her eyes and felt the mattress rise as he lifted his knee.

      He moved away and stood beside the bed. “Try to get some rest,” he said, as he turned to leave. Caulder whirled around at the door. “I’m sorry this happened to you.” He stuck his hands in his pockets and rocked back on his heels.

      “I’ll be all right.”

      He hurried back to the bed and put another kiss on her forehead, cupping her face in the process.

      She covered a yawn with the back of her hand, feigning sleepiness so he’d leave, but in reality, she hid the fervor in her eyes. The warmth of his lips lingered on her skin. Why would he do such a thing? Her weighted eyelids fluttered, and she fought to keep them closed. When he walked away, she opened her eyes as he went through the door. He sat in the chair positioned where she could see him from the bed. She moved to her side and watched his motions as he sipped wine and talked to Roy while they ate. Once he glanced back in at her. What’d she get herself into? Would he expect perks while on the road? Would she?

      End of Excerpt.

      I love Caulder, but oh, you have to like Roy Bianco. The dear man had a big role and a big job in Hey, Cowboy, Book Two, which proves why the family needs him. In book three, Ric Armano actually visited Velia without Roy and Nero, but he should’ve been there.

      2 test Untitled (1)

      Have a fantastic weekend!

      Posted in #AmWriting, Bull Rider Series, Howdy Ma'am | 11 Comments | Tagged bull rider series, Bull Riding, cowboy, Full Length Novel, hero, Howdy Ma'am, mary j mccoy dressel, Romance, series romance, strong heroine, western romance
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