Mary J. McCoy-Dressel

Sensual western romance. Heartwarming stories. Strong family ties.
Mary J. McCoy-Dressel
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  • Category: Double Dutch Ranch Series

    • Snippet Saturday: Of the Cowboy’s Own Accord

      Posted at 4:11 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on November 12, 2022
      long stem red rose laying on sheet music, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Western Romance, Blog Post Short Snippet Saturday

      For today’s post, I’m posting a snippet with my Army Ranger, a soldier-cowboy from the Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight – Of the Cowboy’s Own Accord.

      Dane Carlson gave up ranching to serve his country. He swore he’d never get involved with a woman until he retired from the military. Then he met Gracelyn Clark while waiting for his flight back to Ft. Benning. From there he’d be deployed for nine months. Gracelyn’s flight had been delayed too. We’ll say they had an enjoyable night together. This snippet picks up two weeks later. Gracelyn is arriving for his deployment.

      Snippet

      Slightly modified.

      Dane gulped, still not sure how it happened. If the weekend worked out, he’d mention her to his mom. He hoped his mom wouldn’t break a leg dancing on the dining room table. Everything about this woman said forever…if she was real. He shuddered.

      Then, her picture appeared on the screen when the phone vibrated, telling him the shudder was for the right reason. She was real. He put it into gear and drove to her gate. There she stood. “Criminy almighty.” Hotness times ten or fifty. Gracelyn wore a body-hugging, blush colored dress with piping in a darker shade that ran across the front and above the waist. Holy… High heels made her at least three inches taller. “Whoa-oh, baby.”

      Her hair waved down her back with a few locks falling over her shoulder. His heart raced at first sight. He wanted to run his hands over the smooth material of her dress and over her curves. Three privates stood to the side, and he had a good idea of their thoughts. He’d be thinking the same thing. Hell, he already was. They’d think differently as soon as he stepped out of the vehicle. His new rank of Master Sergeant garnered even more respect than he previously had as Sergeant First Class.

      He opened the door and hopped out, taking a minute to salute the guys back. With her arms held open, he went into them like a little boy seeking comfort. “Gracelyn,” he murmured. “You’re real. Thank the gods I didn’t imagine you.” The little boy rapidly turned into a man. Holding her this way, he felt protective. Her supple, petite body fit nicely into his arms. He leaned his cheek against the top of her head, his arms tightening so his body could sink into her.

      “I’m real, baby.” She held him close. “You feel fantabulous in my arms. ACUs look great on you.”

      “Fantabulous, eh. That’s a big deal.” Dane gave an extra tight squeeze. His fingers moved up and down her back, taking note of the zipper. The dress held the smoothness he imagined. He held her an arm’s length away. Her eyes were as striking as he remembered. “You look great. Wow, as stunning and sexy as you were in my dreams.”

      She smelled heavenly—feminine and floral but with enough spice to make it sexy. Pushing her hair back, he stared at her eye-catching features. “You’re so beautiful.” His lips parted to kiss hers. “Mmm,” he mumbled before their mouths connected.

      She rested her palms against his chest, her gaze following as she clenched the material. “Your muscles are bigger.”

      “They’re the same, honey. I’ve been working day and night for two weeks. Got to.” He took one hand from his chest. “Come on.”

      Dane opened the passenger side door, and she took his arm. “I’m glad I came. I have an apartment lined up to look at in Phoenix when I fly back. Timing is perfect.”

      “Check out the other areas closer to work. Avoid that Phoenix traffic.”

      “All right.” She peered up at him. “Thank you for asking me to come.”

      “My pleasure. Get on in there. I got you a room close to the base.” It was one of the best in the area and a lot of families stayed there when there was a reason to come.

      She slid inside but caught the door. “Room for me? What about you? No leave time?”

      “Let me get in.” He closed the door. What about me? He couldn’t assume she’d want him staying with her, so to be safe, he hadn’t planned it. It wasn’t far from the base, so it wouldn’t take anything to run back and forth.

      Inside before shifting, she reached over for his hand. “Aren’t you staying with me?”

      Dane pulled out and headed down the highway. Yes, he wanted to stay with her. He wanted to learn what he hadn’t known yet. Touch her. Feel her in his heart. Dammit, what happened to me? This would be a difficult weekend. He should’ve said good-bye over the phone. Everything he didn’t want had happened. But he hadn’t known he’d want her.

      UNIVERSAL BUY LINK: books2read.com/u/3Lkqeb

      END

      Believe it or not, it took me most of the day to post this. It was fun looking for a snippet, though. Again, I might as well show my old stuff since I have nothing new to show. Unfortunately, this holds true for the rest of the year.

      I’ve been “under the weather” all week. It could be from my booster shot, or I picked something up before or after. I did get to see my youngest son for a short visit when he and my DIL were in town. He worked virtually while my daughter in law worked at another of her company buildings here. It’s sad when they leave, but they’re happy where they are. I want them to be happy.

      I hope you’re all having a wonderful weekend. Thanks for visiting.

      Posted in #AmWriting, Double Dutch Ranch Series, Excerpt, Of the Cowboy's Own Accord | 9 Comments | Tagged #Romance Writer, Double Dutch Ranch Series Love at First Sight, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, soldier-cowboy, western romance
    • Inspiration Strikes Again #2

      Posted at 12:09 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on September 6, 2022

      Howdy, folks. Here is the follow-up excerpt I mentioned in the previous post. For those who missed it, I had intended to start book six in the Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight in 2023. The excerpt I’m posting is to give you a look at Rob, who stars in the sixth book in the series. He appears in almost every book in the series and the spin off series.

      The setting for this series is my fictitious town of Canyon Junction in Arizona with the Sonoran Desert and Superstition Mountains as a backdrop. Check the link HERE if you want to know more about the series. Books are rated between a PG-13 and R rating by movie standards. Going forward, I intend to update all of my books to a PG-13 rating and below. My newest books are already there. Rob’s book will reflect the change too.

      The image in the graphic isn’t part of the book cover for Rob’s book.

      Set up: Nora and Tristan had a major argument, and she needed a ride home. Who better to call than a longtime friend.

      Like Rob’s long hair, so is this excerpt.

      Excerpt:

      This would kill her, but she’d have to ask for a ride. Who could she call? She took out her phone and called her old friend Rob Adams who recently opened Rob’s Place, a local sports bar in town. What choice did she have?

      He answered, “Rob’s Place.”

      “Rob? This is Nora Trinity.”

      “Nora, hey, hi. How’s it going, girl? Grab Tristan and come up for a drink on the house. We’re kind of slow tonight.”

      Nora dropped to the bed. The bar was noisy and didn’t sound slow at all. Glasses clinked and TVs blared in the background. “Can I ask a big favor?”

      “Huh? What’s wrong? Are you all right?”

      His voice held concern. They’d been good friends in school, but that was a long time ago. They’d run into each other in town a few times since she’d been back, and she and Tristan visited the last place he worked before opening his own bar, and the Grand Opening, but she had to ask. “I need a ride home. Please don’t ask me any questions.”

      “All right. Where are you?”

      Don’t cry now. Oh, should she be doing this? Maybe Tristan would have a change of heart when he returned… That didn’t matter. He needed time to think. She did, too. “I’m at the Double Dutch. Tristan’s section of the ranch.”

      “Is everything all right there?”

      “Not for me.”

      He must’ve been behind the bar because it sounded like he juggled beer glasses to patrons. “I’ll be right there.”

      “I’ll be waiting at the office. Thank you so much, Rob.”

      She looked up after disconnecting. Tristan waited at the door with his hands gripping the jamb. “I’m leaving. I had to call for a ride.”

      “I know. I came back to give you a lift.”

      He had removed his flannel shirt and looked so good standing there in a black t-shirt and black jeans. That shock of hair on his forehead needed to be brushed back. Would she ever be able to do it again? “I have a ride.”

      Photo by Brett Jordan on Pexels.com

      “I brought you here, I’ll take you home. Cancel your ride.”

      “No. I had to embarrass myself by asking, and I’m going through with it.” She stood and picked up her bag. He didn’t move out of the way. She peered at him eye to eye. “Let me pass.” Tristan turned enough to let her slip by. “You know where I live if you change your mind.” She strode down the hall and ran into Destiny at the top of the stairs. That was the last thing she’d wanted. Hold it together a little longer. “Hi, sweetheart. I’m going home now. I’ll see you later.”

      Destiny stomped. “No, Nora-Mom. You have to stay.” She looked up at Nora with wide eyes. “Why are you going? Can I go with you?”

      Tristan came over to take her hand. “You’re not going with her.”

      Nora knelt to hug her tightly. “I love you, Destiny.”

      “Nora, don’t go with your suitcase.” She cried. “Don’t go!”

      Nora rushed down the stairs. Destiny broke from her dad’s hand and ran down after her. “Nora, don’t go.” She took Nora’s hand.

      “Destiny, you can’t go with me, honey. I’m sorry.”

      Tristan came down the stairs to take her hand again, but she pulled away from him. “No, Daddy!” She ran upstairs and slammed her door.

      Nora peered at Tristan. As much as she tried not to cry, she couldn’t hold it back. Oh, God, oh, God. She rushed past Judy who no doubt came to see what was wrong with Destiny. No, she couldn’t face her. She hurried toward the office, closed the door, and locked it behind her so no one followed her in.

      Headlights shone through the front window. She rushed out and Rob pushed the door open in his truck, so she stuffed her bag and purse in ahead of her. Nora glanced toward the office door when she reached for her seat belt. Come on, Tristan, don’t let me go.

      “Where to, Red? Don’t you live out on the golf course?”

      “That’s right. Drive please.” Rob didn’t look clean-cut like he had during their high school days. Now, he had long hair and tattoos. It fit him though, and he was even more handsome all grown up.

      “Tristan’s a crazy asshole if he let you go that easily. Wanna go back to the bar for a drink?”

      Her stomach reminded her she hadn’t eaten, but she wasn’t sure if she could. There wasn’t much at home to eat, either. “Sure, I can’t promise to be good company right now. What’s your special tonight?”

      “I’ll make you one of my special burgers.”

      “I’d like that. Fries, too?”

      “The best in town.”

      “Thank you for giving me a ride.” She broke down and cried again to think of the future without Tristan and Destiny. “I can’t have a drink.”

      Rob put his hand on her shoulder as a friendly gesture. “Oh, I see. That’s okay. I have soda…and milk.”

      “Don’t mention it to anyone. No one but Tristan and I know.”

      “I won’t, but now that makes Tristan look like an even bigger asshole.”

      “He’s not to blame. It’s my fault for not trusting him.”

      End of excerpt.

      Oh, the joy of writing romance! ❤


      If you read this far, thank you so much.

      Happy Belated Labor Day to my fellow Americans.

      Posted in #AmWriting, #WritersLife, Cowboy Boss and his Destiny, Double Dutch Ranch Series, Excerpt | 6 Comments | Tagged #WritersLife, Double Dutch Ranch Series Love at First Sight, Inspiration Strikes Again #2, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Romance, small towns and cowboys, western romance
    • 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
    • Short Snippet Saturday: Love is Blind

      Posted at 4:31 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on September 4, 2021

      Waving hello on this first Saturday in September. How is it September? Remember, we only have to deal with thirty days this month.

      I haven’t shared a Short Snippet Saturday Post for some time. This week, I brought Judy Carlson, our ranch matriarch at the Double Dutch Ranch, back into the limelight. I’ve made two modifications in this snippet to avoid spoilers. See more about this series here.

      NOTE: My books are complete with happily ever after endings and no cliffhangers. Reading out of order can give things away pertaining to the other characters and situations in the series. If you only want to read one book, you will still have a complete and satisfying story in itself.

      new release Seasoned with Destiny: A Gift of Love Book #5, Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, book announcement on Series page

      Return to Canyon Junction with Book Five.

      Heartaches, hot flashes, and new beginnings.

      Content with her family and new grandbabies on the way, Judy Carlson is happy—despite day-to-day struggles of running a ranch and memories of sadness they share. Menopausal changes remind her birthdays arrive too doggone soon. On sleepless nights, she longs for a partner to snuggle up beside. She never minds gazing at a strong cowboy, a man with a handsome smile, or with an intellectual touch of silver in his hair. She observes this daily in their seasoned ranch foreman, Selva Rosado. Though she won’t admit to an attraction until an emotional and physical warming encompasses her when he’s around.

      However, after dancing a night away with Dale Connor three years ago, she’d considered settling down again. Then he disappeared on a clandestine trip, only to return with intentions as mysterious as his journey, and trouble from his past. She learns how right her family is to worry and how wrong she is to ignore intuition. Yet she can’t overlook their loyal foreman in the background who waits and watches with his own mysteries.

      Two men vie for her hand. How can a cowgal decide which one will park their boots beside hers at the end of each day? Before making any decisions, she aims to discover all of their secrets.


      Tristan grabbed his head with both hands. “Mom. Don’t go digging into things you don’t want to know about.”

      “I already did. A couple glasses of wine got him to talking. You know about his addiction. I see why you shun him.”

      Tristan sat again. “He told you?”

      “He owes money and could be in trouble.”

      “Dammit, you need to stay away from him. If trouble has found him, none of us want you in the middle of it. You have more to lose than he does. I swear to God, if you—”

      Judy stood and narrowed her eyes. “If I what?” Tristan’s Adam’s apple moved up and down. She sat again before either of them said things neither of them wanted to say or hear. Hating to bring up Tristan’s past, she had to set him straight. “Why do you think me a foolish woman? I’ve been through this once. There is no chance in Hades I want to do it again with a man I barely know.”

      He strode toward the door and grabbed his hat. “I know. I know. I know. How many times can I apologize?”

      “Zero. The past is over, albeit I’ve learned my own lessons along with you, son.”

      “Don’t get involved with him. We all know the truth about Dale. The guys he borrowed money from in Nevada aren’t guys to take no for an answer.”

      “Why didn’t you tell me this? H-how do you know about the men. From Nevada, you say?”

      Tristan sighed. “There it is. Friends know him. Me and the guys wanted to see if it went anywhere with you and Dale before popping your balloon.”

      “Balloon, huh? In any case, it’s my decision whether to get involved with Dale. I didn’t want you involved with…” Judy sighed and took a breath to regroup. “It’s too early in the morning for this.”

      “I know you didn’t want me to go back with Destiny’s mom. None of that matters now, and why are we bringing this up? I have a beautiful daughter. No one can regret she happened.”

      “No one is sorry you and Rachel had a child, but the woman broke your heart. Love is blind.”

      “Yeah, it is. That’s why we’re concerned for you.” Tristan barged out the door.

      Judy pulled it open. “I love you, son.”

      He whirled. Nodded. “Me too, but we all want you to be safe…”

      End of snippet.

      Well now. I’ve had a few heated conversations with my boys including slamming doors.


      Learn more about the series on the Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight page. Thank you for visiting.

      Posted in #AmWriting, Double Dutch Ranch Series, Short Snippet Saturday | 3 Comments | Tagged #AmWriting, Double Dutch Ranch Series, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Seasoned Romance, Seasoned with Destiny: A Gift of Love, Short Snippet Saturday: Love is Blind, western novel, western romance
    • #WritersLife Decisions and Dilemmas

      Posted at 12:48 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on February 5, 2021
      Pixabay Geralt

      Hiya, folks. It’s me pondering again. Oh-oh!

      I’m wondering how many series writers ask themselves: When do I end a series? Ending a series also affects readers who are fans of the books. As a reader and author, I, too, have saddened to see a series end.

      Writers, have you ended a series?  How did you come to the decision?

      Readers, what do you think when a much-loved series is over?


      Decisions:

      Forgive me for making this about me, me, me. Haha. I might have mentioned this before, but early last year, I asked a few of my dedicated readers if my original subtitle Seasoned with Destiny: BILL’S FINAL GIFT sounded like the final book in the Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight.  

      My oldest son first pointed this out to me when he asked if this was the final book. Bless his heart. He’s great with critiquing my titles. Indeed, the readers I asked agreed it sounded like the last book in the series. Therefore, I changed the subtitle to “A Gift of Love” because lo-and-behold, I didn’t want it to sound like the last book in the series. I asked my cover designer to change the subtitle, and even she thought the first one sounded like the series would end.

      HOWEVER…

      Since then, and after days of contemplating whether I wanted to write more books in this series, I asked myself if book five should end it after all. The series can stop where it is without another book. But after two new and unexpected characters popped up in the story, and a surprise declaration from another, I mentally made a plan for a sixth and seventh book. Maybe eight.

      Should we step back from making major decisions at certain times in our lives? Wouldn’t illness be one of those times? Living in a pandemic when so many “normal” things change in our lives, also has an impact on decision making. Shouldn’t this be another time to take a step back and weigh all the options? This is what I’m trying to do. To me, these are rhetorical questions because I know the answer is yes.

      Way before the end of writing book one, I planned on a long series. I’d be sad to see this one end. An author who I admire has advised others to wrap it up if sales dry up. Sales almost had, but to be fair, I blame myself. One needs to put books in front of readers, and I neglected to do this for many months–nearly a year. Therefore, I can’t base a decision on low sales until I put my heart and brain back into my job and promote myself and my stories.

      When I promote, sales go up across the board and across all of my series books. My new book did push sales to all of my books. Needless to say, this encouraged me.

      Dilemmas:

      Another thing driving me to say farewell to the Carlson family is: I feel like I’m called to write something new.

      Do you know this feeling, writers?  

      This new idea rolled out of my head like a red carpet at an awards show. A little part of me thinks I can extend the spin off series with the new books that popped into my head. I’m sure this harebrained idea is me (or my muse) trying to hang on to the series??? You see, the spin off series takes us off the ranch and introduces us to friends and acquaintances who live and love in and around Canyon Junction. 😉

      I tell myself “The books can fit into the series.” Just in case, I wrote a short scene in Seasoned with Destiny: A Gift of Love for the second unexpected character who would begin with this “new” idea.

      I can make it happen if I want it to. I’m a writer!

      After all, I transformed an old draft for Finding Kimber into a western to fit into the spin off series. A new western setting changed everything especially my hero Zachary (Zach) Bryson, who is now a cowboy. He’s a mighty fine cowboy, too, though a stubborn–the way I like them–alpha. He was not named Zachary in the draft. The major parts of the story that I kept was Kimber’s name and her needing witness protection. Read her tempestuous beginning HERE.

      The Truth Is:

      It’s 2021, and I’m feeling a bit better than last year and thinking clearer now. The thing is, I have a new series to build in the Two-Five Ranch Outlaws. I’m behind in this series. Instead of writing the draft for book two, I should be writing book three, but in 2020 life got in the way… The same as it did for all of us. At this point, I don’t want to begin another new series. Shame on my muse for nudging me at the wrong time. Hmm. I’m leaning toward writing the next Double Dutch Ranch story and to go from there. Maybe the new series idea is for another life.

      So much to write. So little time. All I can say is “Stay Tuned.”

      Time goes, you say? Ah no!

      Alas, Time stays, we go.

      ~Henry Austin Dobson

      I’ve been writing and revising this post since last year. What does that say about decision making? So, if you continued this far, I thank you kindly for reading. 💖 Enjoy the rest of your day.


      Readers? Authors? Any thoughts on the ending of a series?

      Image credits: Featured image- Geralt. Signs & mountain-Pixabay JanBaby. Quote from The Quote Garden.

      Posted in #AmWriting, #WritersLife, Canyon Junction: Hearts in Love Series, Double Dutch Ranch Series | 8 Comments | Tagged #AmWriting, #WritersLife, Contemporary #western romance series, Decisions and Dilemmas, mary j mccoy dressel, Romance Series books
    • Seasoned with Destiny: A Gift of Love

      Posted at 3:10 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on December 25, 2020

      I proudly present to you:

      Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight, Book #5

      Book Description

      Readers have grown to love the Double Dutch Ranch series and the Carlson family. Return to Canyon Junction with Book Five.

      Heartaches, hot flashes, and new beginnings.

      Content with her family and new grandbabies on the way, Judy Carlson is happy—despite day-to-day struggles of running a ranch and memories of sadness they share. Menopausal changes remind her birthdays arrive too doggone soon. On sleepless nights, she longs for a partner to snuggle up beside. She never minds gazing at a strong cowboy, a man with a handsome smile, or with an intellectual touch of silver in his hair. She observes this daily in their seasoned ranch foreman, Selva Rosado. Though she won’t admit to an attraction until an emotional and physical warming encompasses her when he’s around.

      However, after dancing a night away with Dale Connor three years ago, she’d considered settling down again. Then he disappeared on a clandestine trip, only to return with intentions as mysterious as his journey, and trouble from his past. She learns how right her family is to worry and how wrong she is to ignore intuition. Yet she can’t overlook their loyal foreman in the background who waits and watches with his own mysteries.

      Two men vie for her hand. How can a cowgal decide which one will park their boots beside hers at the end of each day? Before making any decisions, she aims to discover all of their secrets.

      Author Note: Seasoned with Destiny: A Gift of Love is Judy’s story. However, her three sons will not sit back quietly when everything they love is at stake. Therefore, you’ll see chapters in their points of view, too, plus a chapter from a special man.

      Grab a copy here:

      Amazon

      Universal Buy Link


      How about a little sneak peek from the first chapter? Yeah? All Right!

      Chapter 1

      Judy walked cautiously into the great room and peered into the kitchen. The mumble and jumble from her family came to a halt. She peered around the room. “What’s the matter? You act like you’ve never seen me wear makeup before. Yes, it’s a new dress. I advise every one of you to keep your attitudes in line tonight.”

      They all looked stunned, but Jase, her firstborn, stood. “Should we sit down to have a talk, Ma? You haven’t had a real date for a long time. You never fooled me. You dated another guy for many years, but he never had your heart. Need any advice?” Jase roared. Tristan and Dane stood at the counter snickering.

      Jase continued. “Just saying. I don’t want to have to rough him up any, so we need to set up some boundaries in advance.”

      Judy rolled her eyes at the so-called leader of the pack. “Why, Jase Carlson. If you weren’t so big, I’d smack your behind. Instead, I’ll have Brenna do it.”

      “Hey!” Brenna waddled up to Jase. “Don’t bring me into this.”

      “Come on, Bren,” Jase smirked. “Smack my ass, doll.”

      Brenna patted his behind. “Watch it big guy. You know better than to mess with me right now.”

      Jase drew her over in front of him and slipped his hands to her round belly. “Because of this kid? Huh, little Mama?”

      “What do you think?” Brenna narrowed her eyes but smiled and lifted her face for a kiss.

      Judy carried the Cussin’ Jar over to Jase. “Now.”

      “Aww, come on.”

      “Five bucks, mister.”

      “Damn, you raised the price?”

      “That’ll be ten bucks. Between Brenna and Nora, I’ll have two more grandbabies. The cost went up. If you don’t like it, stop cussin’. Shall we make it an even twenty?”

      “I don’t mean to in front of you, Ma.”

      “Habits are hard to break.” Judy smiled at the friendly banter, but she saddened as this pregnancy reminded her of Jase and Brenna’s last one. She’d had a stillborn birth at five months with a little boy named Timothy. Today, little Timmy would be the age of Nora and Tristan’s three-year-old son, Shiloh. It had been one of the most difficult things the family had ever faced. She chose to believe Timmy rested in his grandpa Bill’s arms in Heaven.

      Jase pretended to zip his mouth but ignored the jar. “I’ll get it later. The kids took all my cash.”

      Tristan, her middle son who held the weight of the family on his shoulders, took over where Jase left off. “You’re awful calm, Mom, for a first date. Holding out on us and seeing Dale on the side? Slipping out at night? Huh?”

      “It’s none of your business, but no. Dale and I got along at the wedding. It’s almost like we’d known each other for years.” She only fooled herself. Too much time had passed to have those feelings for him now. Three years was too much time, and she’d heard different rumors concerning why he’d disappeared, but she didn’t have the heart to ask those who knew him. This evening, she intended to find out if they were true. Maybe she wouldn’t inquire on their first date.

      “You don’t know him.” Tristan frowned. “If it isn’t us watching out for you, who will? It’s no different than the third degree we’d get from you on our dates.”

      “Yeah, Ma. Remember when you coerced me to take Brenna to the hotel after just meeting her?” Jase leaned his head to the side to escape Brenna’s hand from covering his mouth.

      Judy nodded toward Brenna’s belly. “I was right, wasn’t I?”

      “Wasn’t she, Jase?” Brenna warned.

      Jase patted her tummy. “Okay, darlin’, she was right.”

      Judy brushed her hands forward in a sweeping motion. “Humph. Let me finish getting ready. You all go home before he gets here. I don’t need you scaring him off.”

      Jase and Dane pulled out a chair. Dane nodded to his brother. “Hey, Tristan, bring over some sandwich fixings.”

      “Uh-uh. No, you don’t.” Judy took hold of his and Jase’s sleeves and attempted to pull them out of the chairs. Instead, they sat speechless, and they must’ve applied glue to their jeans because none of them budged. “You boys, git. Come back to make your sandwiches after I leave.”

      Jase grinned at Brenna. “Come on, guys. She can’t kick us out of the driveway. Dale will have to come through us first.”

      She could spit Sonoran sand right now. Judy pushed Jase toward the door. “Wanna bet? Go home. I’ll call if I need you.”

      Selva Rosado, their ranch foreman, tapped on the door, entering with a confident air about him. He carried a bouquet. “Tristan, can I see you in the barn? We have a slight problem.”

      Tristan grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge. “Sure. Those flowers for me?”

      Selva chuckled. “No, amigo.”

      Judy smiled at Selva who had worked on the Double Dutch for years and had been good friends with Bill and her. The man had a swagger that caught her attention more times than she’d want to admit. She’d always imagined Bill would have the same touch of silver in his hair as Selva’s. “What are you doing with those flowers? Got a date yourself?”

      “Nah, not me. Good evening, Judy.” Handing her the flowers, Selva gazed at Judy from the floor up. “I saw these at the store today. They were the last bunch, sitting all alone. The first thing I thought of was how nice they’d look on your kitchen table.” He cleared his throat and nodded to Tristan. “Sorry to barge in on you all like this.”

      Tristan took a swig from the water bottle. “I’ll be right there. Mom’s got a date. We’re sticking around to intimidate him a little.”

      Selva lowered his eyes to Judy’s. “A date? Back with Martyn?”

      Judy strolled over to Selva, touched his upper arm, and thanked him for the flowers. “Don’t listen to him, and no, it isn’t Martyn.” She turned to Tristan but eyed all three boys. “You go out to the barn to see what’s the matter. Stay there until you leave for home. I don’t need you here when Dale comes. Go.” She swung her arm toward the door with her finger pointing.

      Jase and Dane each gave her a hug before following Tristan to the door. Dane hesitated. “How come Brenna gets to stay?”

      “Have you boys reverted back to teenagers?” Judy faced Brenna. “Now, honey, I love you like you’re blood, but gather the kids from outside and skedaddle. Please, all of you go home.”

      Dane frowned. “Let’s get out of here, guys.”

      “I love you boys.”

      “We love you, too, Ma,” Jase called over his shoulder.

      “Love ya, Mom, behave tonight.” Dane, her youngest and a protector of everything, gave one of the smiles he’d used to get his way as a boy. She couldn’t help but return it.

      Selva trailed through the kitchen behind them all, holding up at the door. He met her gaze. “You look nice tonight. Is it Dale Connor who you’re dating? Roxanne’s father?”

      “I wouldn’t say dating. He’s been gone. Do you remember him from the wedding a few years back?”

      “Yes, ma’am and for other reasons. I heard he’d returned. Be careful, Judy.”

      Judy tilted her head inquisitively. “Whatever for? Is there something I should know?”

      He put on his hat, opened his mouth as if to speak, but turned and exited.

      Hmm. What had that been about? Judy eyed his tall frame and muscles a senior personal trainer might die for, until Selva strode into the barn with Tristan. She padded over to lock the back door. Sighing, she wrung her hands at her midriff. A smile brightened her face upon spotting the flowers on the island. She picked up the mixed spring bouquet, got a vase from the china cabinet on the far wall, and arranged them in water. Tonight, he’d had on the familiar cologne. The beautiful flowers were what she needed to bring a calm over her, but it didn’t last long. His car rolled into the driveway three years too late.


      Ah, I love Judy and her story!

      Oh, one more thing, and I don’t like asking but… I haven’t been able to set up any promotion for this book because I didn’t think I’d get it out this year, so if y’all can help me spread the word, I’ll be grateful.

      AMAZON | BOOKS2READ


      Thanks so much for stopping by today.

      Posted in #AmWriting, #WritersLife, Double Dutch Ranch Series, New Release, Seasoned Romance | 11 Comments | Tagged Double Dutch Ranch Series Love at First Sight, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, New Release eBooks, Romance, Seasoned with Destiny: A Gift of Love, western
    • Short Snippet Saturday: Firstborn

      Posted at 7:24 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on September 17, 2020

      Howdy! Welcome to another Short Snippet Saturday post. Sure has been a while, huh? Finally, something different from my #WordlessWednesday posts of late.  Here’s a snippet from my upcoming release.

      I titled this snippet Firstborn. Today is my firstborn child’s birthday. Happy Birthday, Chris! It finally happened. He’s now older than me. 😀  Below, Judy mentions her firstborn. When I began this series, I didn’t know her secret until later on in the series.

      Judy has two men interested in her. Which one will she choose?

      This snippet features our ranch matriarch Judy Carlson. She’s leaving the home of one of the men after a pleasant sunset walk together. However, before leaving, he revealed information she didn’t want to know. She’s disheartened on her lonely ride home. I changed one of the lines to avoid spoilers.


      “Get home safely.”

      It had been her intention. Her shoulders shook due to the uncanny chill that had passed over her. She drove away. No, no, no. She couldn’t deal with his issue. Bill. Why’d you have to die on me? Tears slipped from her eyes, but she cowgirl’d up and swept them away. Grown women didn’t cry. No matter how much she swiped, they continued to fall.

      Judy started the CD, turned up the volume, and blasted Alan Jackson’s tunes. “Chasing That Neon Rainbow” came on at the perfect moment. Thank you, Bill, darlin’. Time flew by too damn fast for her. All she wanted to think about now was the happiest moments with her Bill. Their wedding day, the birth of their boys, and buying the Double Dutch.

      How handsome and gallant a young man Bill had been standing at the alter in a rented suit, his blue eyes twinkling in the little church near their college campus. He wore his dark hair on the longer side, kind of how Jase wore his now. How the two of them had said I do. Eight months later, their firstborn had arrived in the world. They knew how it looked, but Jase had been born a month early. That was her story, and she stuck to it to this day.

      She took the long way home to allow for a good cry because she couldn’t deny, grown women did cry. By the time she’d arrive home, her eyes would’ve lost the redness surely to be there. At the Double Dutch, one never knew which family member would be at her home. Tristan could be in one of the barns doing his own evening chores.


      This is book #5 in the Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight. See the other books in the series at this LINK.

      Begin the series with Book One now.

      Stay safe and well. Thanks for reading.

      Sunset image: rauschenberger at Pixabay. Judy in a field of flowers: Created by me at PicMonkey – Image from PicMonkey.

      Posted in #AmWriting, Double Dutch Ranch Series, Short Snippet Saturday | 2 Comments | Tagged Double Dutch Ranch Series Love at First Sight, mary j mccoy dressel, Seasoned Romance, senior citizen, western fiction
    • #MFRWhooks Book Hooks: You’ll Give Me a Heart Attack!

      Posted at 4:19 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on May 13, 2020
      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance, Book Hooks Wednesday Blog Post

      It’s Wednesday again? That means it’s time for Book Hooks!

      Here’s another short snippet from my upcoming book due out this spring. In five books and the spin off series books, I don’t know how many times I’ve heard Judy say, “Now what happened?” I love Judy’s character so much!

      The original writing in this snippet has another person coming inside with Judy’s boys, but if I left that part in, it’d be a spoiler. So would a couple of other statements. So, this is modified from the original version.

      #MFRWHooks Link to participating authors will be at the end.


      After breakfast dishes were put away and counters wiped down, Judy sat at her desk in the kitchen to write a group email to her family suggesting the trip for the holidays. She looked up when Tristan came in. “Are you here for seconds?” The rest of them lumbered in. “You’re all here. Now what happened?”

      Tristan spoke first. “No more to eat, Mom. We need to tell you some news.”

      She stood and raised her hands to the air. “Why do you insist on doing this to me? You men will give me a heart attack. What is it?”

      “Calm down, Ma,” Jase said. “Leon called.”

      She sat again, sighing. Of course, it could only mean one of two things. Dane accepted Leon’s proposition, or they received news about the recent ordeal. “Will I be calling you the sheriff’s new partner?”

      “Huh? I don’t know. That’s not why we’re here.” Dane gave his brothers a sidelong glance.

      Judy had about all she could take, but she asked calmly, “Please, say what it is, will ya?”

      Jase blurted it out…


      That’s all folks. It won’t be much longer. I haven’t released a blurb or much of anything about this book yet. Info about this series can be found HERE.

      To visit Book Hooks participating authors for May 13th, click this LINK.

      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.

      Book Hooks Blog Hop banner used as featured image on Mary J McCoy-Dressel Books Book Hooks Blog Post

      As always:

      It takes patience, but we have to be smart. Stay Home. Stay Safe.

      I want all of you around when this pandemic is over. I want to be around too.

      Posted in #AmWriting, #MFRWauthor, #MFRWhooks, Double Dutch Ranch Series | 26 Comments | Tagged #MFRWauthor, #MFRWhooks, #WritersLife, Book Hooks: You'll Give Me a Heart Attack!, Double Dutch Ranch Series Love at First Sight, Marketing for Romance Writers Book Hooks Meme, Short snippet
    • #MFRWhooks Book Hooks Wednesday: Conference Room

      Posted at 12:15 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on March 18, 2020

      Hi, is it Wednesday again? Ah, it must be time for another Book Hooks post. Today I bring you the first book in the Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight:

      Cowboy Boss and his Destiny

      The grandma he mentions is Tristan’s mom, our ranch matriarch who is featured in book five: Seasoned with Destiny: A Gift of Love. Snippet modified to avoid spoilers.


      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance, website

      Oh, my God. “I can’t talk right now, Destiny. We have to get there.” His child’s pain hit him like a spear to the chest. He wanted to be supportive while she cried, but he needed support. I have to get there. Have to get there. At the emergency room parking lot, he unhooked Destiny and carried her inside.

      “I have to see her. Nora Trinity. Just brought in…”

      “Just a minute, please.” She glanced at Destiny who still cried. “Do you have someone coming for your child?”

      “Yes, but I can’t wait.” He released Destiny to the floor. She held him as tight as she could.

      The lady called back there and told him it’d only be a minute. A doctor came out and glanced at Destiny. Tristan knelt. “Honey, you have to wait here for a minute. Grandma will be here soon, real soon.” He pointed to a chair. “Go sit right there and don’t get out of it. Don’t talk to anybody.”

      “No, Daddy. Don’t leave me.” She clung to him with both arms.

      There was no expression on the doctor’s face whatsoever.

      “Listen to me. Only for a few minutes. I have to go to the back.” He held her face. “This is the time you need to be big.”

      She shook her head erratically, and shouted, “I’m not big.”

      He picked her up and hugged her. “Take me back, please.”

      They went through the doors to a conference room. “I’ll put a chair outside the door for your daughter,” the doctor stated matter-of-factly. He dragged a chair out of the room, pushing it against the wall beside the door while Tristan fell apart inside.

      Tristan lowered her to the chair. He demanded that Destiny stay. “I’ll be right inside. Right here.”

      She folded her arms across her chest and stared at the floor.

      The doctor closed the door behind him but leaned against it for what seemed an eternity. Silence.

      Tristan’s heart shattered. They were in a conference room. Ah, damn, this couldn’t be good.

      UNIVERSAL BUY LINK

      From his experience with women, Tristan Carlson learned that some don’t want a ready-made family, and he and his four-year-old daughter come as a package. Then he falls hard and fast for Nora, but if she isn’t going to give him the trust he needs, their relationship won’t last. Without a warning, darkness falls over the entire Carlson family when a near-repeat of a devastating memory comes back to haunt them, and Tristan fears he and his child will have to suffer all over again.

      When Nora Trinity returns to Canyon Junction, she doesn’t expect to fall for the handsome cowboy she lends a hand to in a parking lot. However, since then, she learns about a past that nearly destroyed him. Now she can lose everything if she can’t find it in her heart to trust he’s a changed man. Then why does he disappear at a time when Nora needs him more than she’s ever needed him before? Has she lost him, anyway?

      Tristan and Nora’s bond is put to the test. They need to be strong enough to overcome issues of trust, family complications, and painful memories. They vow to prevail when circumstances beyond their control attempt to prove them wrong.


      This book has gone through multiple changes since the first edition. In fact, in 2016 I revised the entire book and cut the length by… Hmm, A LOT. That isn’t all. I gave it a new cover. I removed so much for the purpose of adding book numbered 1.5 to make it one complete book and doing away with the original 1.5.


      Thank you for reading. While here, click the image below to visit participating authors in this Marketing for Romance Writers Book Hooks blog hop.

      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.

      Image credit – Father and Daughter: Pixabay – platinumportfolio

      Posted in #AmWriting, #MFRWhooks, Book Hooks, Double Dutch Ranch Series | 11 Comments | Tagged #MFRWhooks, blog hop, Book Hooks, Cowboy Boss and his Destiny, Double Dutch Ranch Series Love at First Sight, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance
    • Short Snippet Saturday: Moving On ~ Our Ranch Mom Makes A Decision

      Posted at 10:00 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on January 11, 2020
      long stem red rose laying on sheet music, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Western Romance, Blog Post Short Snippet Saturday

      Howdy! I hope you all had a Merry Christmas or holiday that you celebrate and a Happy New Year. Welcome 2020! 🎉

      “You’re off to Great Places!
      Today is your day!
      Your mountain is waiting,
      So… get on your way!”
      ― Dr. Seuss, Oh, the Places You’ll Go!


      Here’s a rare short snippet from a work in progress. I’ve lived with these characters for eight books now. Three of those are from the spin off series books. Nine, if we count Judy’s presence in Christmas at Love House: A Bittersweet Interlude–the Bull Rider Series–a crossover book where she and Jase visit her sister-in-law, Dolly for the holidays.

      Today, I’m featuring our ranch matriarch Judy Carlson. The book is finished and ready to go to the editor depending on her schedule. Oh, it has a title I love!

      Judy has pined for her husband Bill since the day she’d lost him, so moving on wasn’t part of her life’s agenda. However, one of my favorite parts in this book is when Judy makes a particular decision.

      I say one of my favorite parts, but there are lots more.

      She had many decisions to make in the book. Indeed, I once had to make the same decision and some others that Judy had to make.

      It’s been a long time coming, so those of you who are waiting patiently, please hang in there a while longer.

      Snippet:

      In her bedroom, she sat at the vanity and peered into the oval mirror. Hadn’t she done this a lot lately? This time, she opened her worn wooden jewelry box with the rose inlay on the top, given to her by her grandmother. The creaky hinge evoked memories of her. She removed the gold band from her finger and peered at the empty spot—the tan line a reminder—on her hand. Judy sighed as she sought a name for the emotions washing over her. Sadness. Gladness.

      Bittersweet tears welled in her eyes as she recognized contentment over her decisions of late. She gently lowered the band into its faded white cushioned spot. She smiled, closed the lid on the box, again with the squeaky hinge, and tucked it into the bottom drawer. Judy laid her hand over the box a moment before closing it in and out of sight. Staring at herself in the mirror, she whispered, “It’s a new day.”

      I can relate to Judy in many ways. I’ve been through some roller coaster emotions of my own while writing Book Five. Like Judy, I wanted my grown boys to approve of me remarrying. Neither my boys nor I had to deal with most of what Judy had/has to deal with–one is choosing the right man out of two.

      You didn’t think I’d give my ranch mom and easy time of it, did you? I’ve apologized to her a few times.

      I know if my situation was the same, my boys would’ve jumped in like Tristan, Jase, and Dane. I do remember my youngest son stepping in and asking me to ask myself a question before I said “I do” the second time. In addition, he asked several times if I was sure.

      Judy’s guy: Showing more of the picture would give too much away for readers of the series. In real life, the model is a personal trainer, so you know I had to run with that in the book. Judy didn’t mind a bit. 💕

      Book character Portrayal.

      Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight, Western romance, book heroine, mary j mccoy dressel books

      My vision of Judy Carlson. Character Portrayal is not to be confused with the real model.

      Thanks for stopping by today. Sorry my jibber-jabber is longer than the excerpt.

      I’m praying we’ll get through this mess of a storm coming my way this weekend. You know it’s going to be bad when your energy company sends an announcement about being prepared and how they are gearing up, not if, but when, power lines are down all over. Ekk!

      Enjoy yours.


      Image credits-

      Judy: Dreamstime

      Jewelry Box: Pixabay Public Domain Pictures

      Judy’s guy. I personally purchased the image from a cover model.

      Posted in #AmWriting, #WritersLife, Double Dutch Ranch Series, Seasoned Romance | 15 Comments | Tagged #AmWriting, Double Dutch Ranch Series Love at First Sight, mary j mccoy dressel, Romance, Seasoned Romance, Short Snippet Saturday: Moving On ~ Our Ranch Mom Makes A Decision, western romance
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    • Howdy, Ma'am: The Journey Part One
      Howdy, Ma'am: The Journey Part One
    • Writing Prompts at Your Fingertips
      Writing Prompts at Your Fingertips
    • Reboot - Guarding Generations: A Writing Prompt
      Reboot - Guarding Generations: A Writing Prompt
    • Daily Prompt: Do It Yourself Ambitions
      Daily Prompt: Do It Yourself Ambitions

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