Mary J. McCoy-Dressel ~ Contemporary Romance

Sensual western romance. Heartwarming stories. Strong family ties.
Mary J. McCoy-Dressel ~ Contemporary Romance
  • Welcome
  • Blog
  • Mailing List Sign Up
  • Contact Mary
  • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
  • Holiday Novella
  • Two-Five Ranch Outlaws
  • Double Dutch Ranch
  • Canyon Junction: Hearts in Love
    • Visit Canyon Junction
  • Bull Rider Series
    • Bull Rider Series Boxed Set
  • Coloring Book
  • Works in Progress
  • Reading Order
  • Meet Our Heroines
  • Character Family Connections
  • About
  • Seasoned with Destiny: A Gift of Love
  • Category: Excerpt

    • Short Snippet Saturday: Karis Returns (Imprisoned in a Cowboy’s Heart)

      Posted at 12:19 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on October 5, 2019

      Pay no mind to the word short in Short Snippet Saturday today. I’m presenting to you the end part of Chapter One in one of my new releases this week. I love this story so much. I’m having withdrawals or I’m homesick for not being on the ranch, or in Wills Bend, and Sedona. This includes being with Tanyon and Karis and the whole crew of characters. Does that happen to you?


      Set-up: Karis had arrived at the ranch tonight a year after suffering a tremendous loss. Grief had destroyed her and during that time, she’d let Tanyon slip away. Now, she’s back seeking a second chance. They came in contact earlier at the campfire. It didn’t go well. Later in the evening, she learned that the cabin she and two of her friends usually stayed in, was no longer available. She also learned some devastating news about Tanyon’s ranch. This excerpt is later that evening…

       

      Two Five Ranch Outlaws, Book #1

      Imprisoned in a Cowboy’s Heart

      Excerpt from the end of Chapter One

       

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance…Karis went in the direction of her car to gather her luggage. A light came on in a front section inside the barn. She headed that way, dropping her luggage outside the door. Through it, she spotted Tanyon in the front food storage area. She drew in a breath and blew it out before entering. What a devastating blow he’d been dealt. “Tanyon?”

      He whirled. His gaze cruised over her in a quick glance. “What can I do for you?”

      “Since arriving late, I missed out on the updated sleeping arrangements. Is the cabin off the agenda?”

      He spoke as he prepared morning food baskets. “Yeah. I, uh, I had locks installed on the doors upstairs in my house for you three ladies to have privacy. Your seniority amounts to something ‘round here. You ladies have been coming longer than I’ve been here, well, I mean since before I left bull riding and took this place over from my folks.”

      You ladies? That’s all it had amounted to now? You ladies? Tanyon had left the Army years ago, then had a hankering to ride those damn bulls like he’d done before he’d signed up for the military. Now after one too many knocks on the head, and a serious shoulder injury, he had moved back permanently to his family ranch. They’d officially met while he still toured on the circuit and had come home for a visit while recuperating from an injury. It’d been that long ago when she had the first inkling… He was the man she could fall in love with, and then she had fallen hard.

      Tanyon strode to the rear of the barn. The man had thinned, making him look taller.

      Two of his younger brothers, Dusty and Levi, had taken advantage of him when he’d finally retired. They’d dumped their chores back into his hands and returned to their rowdy, carefree ways. However, that changed last year for Dusty when he owned up to his role as a potential ranch owner. Cade though had a business mind from the start and assisted Tanyon with the business.

      Their sister, Veronica, known as Ronni by the family, had remained with the business to do the books after his parents retired. After retirement, his mom and dad had moved from the big house and now lived on a small section of the property near their private lake in a newly built home.

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance, Book page on website, five siblings upcoming novel series

      Coming toward her, he barely stopped before exiting the barn. “I’ll be right back.”

      Should she stay or go? Go where? She couldn’t walk into his house and upstairs until she knew for sure where she’d stay. Karis sighed.

      Upon his return, he continued his chores. “I’ll have to get your key. Like I said, I didn’t know for sure if you were coming.” He continued mixing the horse’s feed and nutrients. “If I’d seen your application before Carmen, I’d a torn it up. Did you not have dinner?”

      Go ahead, let his words beat her up. She deserved his harshness from walking away from the best man she’d ever find. “I ate on the way. Is there anywhere else I can stay on the ranch?”

      “I don’t think so.”

      “I’ll get a room near Williams.” She took out her phone to search for a number and attempted to leave the barn.

      He caught her arm and placed his hand over hers holding the phone. “You don’t need to stay at a hotel for crissakes.”

      She broke her hand free, continuing to search. “I’ll try the motel I stayed at a few years ago. They have great mountain views there.”

      He shook his head. “Look around, dammit. You have forested mountain views here. Don’t be silly. Stay at the ranch.”

      Karis glanced around at the updated interior. The barn had been organized since he’d returned and had order now. Hay nets hung above short stacks of hay bales. Feed bags had their own place at the rear of the good-sized room. Windows had been cleaned. He took better care of this barn than he had himself lately. “All right. At least for tonight. Need any help out here?”

      “Nope. I hire people to do this when I can’t.”

      She had to get away. The urge to be close to him became too much, and now she longed to feel his touch again. “I’ll wait on the porch.”

      Tanyon called, “Karis? I’ll be over when I’m done here.”

      Her name on his lips was more than she could bear. She shouldn’t have come. This would be hard, and she didn’t need hard right now, at least not that way. Karis picked up the handle of her suitcase, grabbed her backpack, and trudged through the sand over to his moderately sized house with newly painted steps and new shutters on the second-floor windows. In fact, the whole house had been painted.

      She sat on the third step up out of eight. A white railing enclosed the wrap-a-round porch, separated by four white, wood pillars. The house sat high in the front and atop a two-car garage beneath it with an extended storage area. The rear of the home had a slight slope and a fancy patio his mom had designed.

      How dare he assign her to the room next to his. Tiredness settled in, and she leaned back on her elbows to relax. Tomorrow she’d deal with this situation. She glimpsed the star-studded sky, forgetting how black it got up here, and already missed her niece and nephew. Karis moved from the steps and took a seat in a dark-stained Adirondack chair facing away from the lighted porch. Her clothes and hair had captured the smell of the campfire.

      Thinking of her family now, and according to everything she’d learned, and would advise her grieving patients, they shouldn’t have gone through her brother’s belongings yet. Albeit, his house had to be emptied and there’d been no choice but to go through his beloved items—paintings and writings—photographs from around the world, the kid’s toys, their clothes, and bedroom furniture they’d need at their new home with Aunt Karis.

      Later, she jerked when a foot tapped hers. She lifted her sleepy eyes to his. Oh, how she wanted to bring his face down to kiss his lips. Hers had been so needy these days.

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance, imprisoned in a cowboy's heart, new release excerpt

      “You ready?”

      His voice held no compassion. She’d lost him. Omigod. He stood there looking so ruggedly handsome with that damn old hat, nice-fitting jeans though looser now, a t-shirt that clung to his strong upper physique, and his worn western boots. Karis stood. Tanyon’s released breath couldn’t be unheard. Had it come from frustration or something else? They grasped her luggage handle at the same time.

      “I got this.” He yanked it away.

      She slung her backpack over her shoulder and strode in beside him. His familiar all-male scent and sweat wafted through the air straight to her heart. “Give me a chance to explain what happened.”

      “Out of sight out of mind is the way I see it. A fling that meant nothing.”

      “So untrue! You know better. You certainly were not out of my mind, nor were you a fling. There hasn’t been anyone else. It was my mom and… My brother—the grief.” The word murdered remained unsaid. What had it mattered now whether he believed grief had destroyed her? Because it does.

      At the bottom of the wide polished stairway with a carpeted runner up the middle, he removed a key from the antique table in the foyer, took the backpack from her shoulder, and nodded up the stairs, then right at the top, and down a long open walkway, past her two friend’s rooms and to her door. Tanyon’s suite encompassed the whole end of the upstairs on this end.

      She’d known where it was but had never been in it on a personal basis. However, she and Tanyon had attempted to go in there one night until they were interrupted by two of his brothers dragging each other’s drunk asses up the stairs. All three of their rooms were to the left of the stairway, and Cade had the largest on that end. Ronni had a master suite downstairs next to an office since she had divorced and moved back home.

      She paused outside the door, wishing to see a glimmer of hope in his eyes. Karis spoke softly. “Why did you give me this room?”

      “I don’t answer work-related questions this late.” He unlocked the door and dropped the key into her hand. “Breakfast is at the usual time.”

      He entered his room yet he’d glanced back at her with a frown before closing the door. Good thing she’d slept a half hour in the chair because lying in bed a wall away from him would drive her mad.

      By the time she had changed and settled in the four-poster queen-sized bed with blankets smelling like delicate spring-scented fabric softener, a floorboard squeaked outside her room. Maybe Tanyon had second thoughts, and tomorrow he’d find new quarters for her. Karis gulped as her eyes welled. The floor squeaked again. She wasn’t as ready to confront him as she’d thought.

      Now alone, she had time to recall memories of her brother Rory. Up until now, she’d been so busy caring for others, that she hadn’t taken time to properly accept her grief. Karis closed her book, got out of bed, and opened the curtain to look outside in the dark. This room had a balcony. She stepped out and stood at the wrought iron railing. It was a bit darker on this side of the house. The Milky Way stretched out bright and clear, dotted with a trail of scintillating stars. Forested mountains stood shadowed against the night’s backdrop. A soft breeze carried smells from ranch life from the horse barns and cattle in this direction, and pine.

      Karis closed her eyes a moment, seeking solace, but all she saw was Tanyon’s arms around her as he’d joined her at the lake last fall. How he spoke softly into her ear asking her to stay on after the others left. She wrapped her arms around herself now for comfort. Tanyon, I miss you.

      A sound below snapped her out of the love-sick vision then footsteps faded away. She leaned over the rail to the opening below. A stairway wrapped around the side of the building, which led down from Tanyon’s balcony. Would he mind company tonight?

      End of excerpt.


      Thanks for bearing with the length. That’s why it’s only part of the chapter. The first part up to the cutoff point I had chosen, was still too long to post here–longer than this. You can always use the Look Inside feature on retailer sites or order a free sample. Or, you know, buy the book while the price is still discounted.  ❤

      Enjoy your weekend.

      Posted in #AmWriting, Common Elements Romance Project, Excerpt, New Release, Short Snippet Saturday, Two-Five Ranch Outlaws | 7 Comments | Tagged #CommonElementsRomance, Common Elements Romance Project, Imprisoned in a Cowboy's Heart, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, New Release, Northern Arizona, Romance, Short Snippet Saturday, Two-Five Ranch Outlaws, western romance
    • Featured Book ~ Lassoing the Last Dance: A Man Like Randy

      Posted at 10:11 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on May 19, 2019
      fresh fruit in wicker basket, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance, image used for excerpt on website, featured image,

      Lassoing the Last Dance is my featured book this month. Enjoy a rather long excerpt.

      Terms of Use


      Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight™ #4

      To set it up for you:

      Previously, Randy and Roxanne shared a long-distance relationship. Roxanne had cut it off after a year with no explanation, and their mutual friends, Nora and Tristan remained tight-lipped. Now, Roxanne has moved back to Canyon Junction™ without telling Randy. His heart has never healed from losing her, but when he finds out she moved back, he can’t stay away.

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Western romance, series romance, book cover, cowboy, barn, two horses

      He slowed down a bit when he neared her house. Indeed, her pickup sat in the driveway. A decal of sparkly red cowboy boots had remained in the rear window. He got out and went to the other side for the basket, but now the idea seemed silly again. He left it. Albeit, he trudged up the steps, knocked on the door. Hoped for the best. Sighed. To his surprise, a guy opened. Well, hell, this is uncomfortable.

      “Yeah?” was all the stern-faced, square-jawed guy said when he pushed open the outside door.

      “Is Roxanne around tonight?” He held eye contact with the man, having no clue who he was. Of all people, it better not be her ex-husband. If so, Randy might deck him right there just for the reason of all the things he had done to Roxanne in the past. Then he’d be disappointed in her for having him here. Was this guy her so-called story?

      “I’ll get her. Hold on.”

      All he did was yell for her, not go get her. Asshole.

      She emerged with widened eyes and a gasp. “R-Randy.”

      He tapped his heel against the porch and his breath caught when she appeared. He was right about her hair. It was darker blonde than it used to be. Straight now, not wavy like before. Her eyes remained fixed on him as she stood there. Spectacular light blue eyes. A long skirt with vertical stripes looked great on her, making her appear taller than he’d remembered.

      Finding his voice, he began, “I stopped by to welcome you back to Canyon Junction.”

      She turned to whoever was inside, “I’ll be right in.” Roxanne stepped out the door, waited a moment, then strode to the glider to take a seat. “I’m rather shocked to see you here, Randy.”

      Had she limped? “I bet. You didn’t tell me you were coming back. Hard to hide things in a small town.” Gulping, he nodded toward the door. “It’s not like you had to let me know. I’ll take off. I didn’t know you had company.” He stepped down two steps and removed keys from his pocket. “You take care, Roxanne. Nice to see you again.”

      “Randy? Wait.”

      He peered at her while trying to get his heart back in its place. A painful look appeared on her face—something between a scowl and shooting daggers. He gripped the handrail and didn’t make an attempt to move. Was she about to lambaste him? Well, he had a few things to throw right back.

      In a soft voice, she asked, “Will you come back and have a seat?”

      Randy nodded toward the door again. “Maybe another time if you don’t mind.”

      “That’s my cousin inside. He’s always been like a brother to me, and he drove my vehicle here from Broken Arrow while I flew to arrive early. He was here when I got back from Nora’s tonight. I mentioned Brett to you before.”

      Yeah, so long ago that he’d forgotten. He went up the steps and took a seat beside her. Her subtle yet sensual fragrance brought back the memory of her in his arms. So much so that he wouldn’t mind taking her into his arms and closer to her perfume. “Where’s your cousin live?”

      “Near my dad’s new condo outside of town, but he was kind enough to help me out by doing the driving himself. Tonight, he’ll be staying and helping out tomorrow here at the house. There’s so much work to do to make it mine.” She glanced down at clasped hands in her lap.

      Tension lay thick between them. Something was different about her. Roxanne looked frail, downtrodden. He wanted to hold her, or at least pick up those clasped hands. “My place too. It is how it is, and I don’t know what would make it mine. I see it as my parent’s home.”

      “The Circle D Ranch was theirs a long time ago.” Her hands wrung, then she clenched them together again. He must’ve made her nervous, or angry. “Well, Nora’s mom, Sandy, was nice enough to sell this house to me once she realized she wasn’t able to move back home from her son, Brody’s. She was happy it was me who bought it. Everything worked out.”

      She stared at him straight on, a slight tilt to her head. It made his heart race even faster because she was in the right position to be kissed. “It’ll be a good place for you.” He shifted sideways and used his foot to make the glider move in a slow glide. He lowered his hand over hers in her lap. Her soft skin felt nice next to his, but her hands were cold. “I better go. It was great to see you again. Maybe I’ll see you around town, huh?”

      Her throat tightened then her lips parted. Had she wanted to say more? His own words didn’t come out right away. He stood. “Have a nice night.” She took his hand, pulling on it quite hard to stand. “You okay, Roxanne?”

      A car driving past grabbed her attention for a moment. “Yeah, sure.” She clenched his hand tighter and made eye contact, their gazes holding beneath a muted sky. “Nice seeing you again, too. I suspect we’ll see each other around. Small town living, you know.”

      “Yup. Rox?” He hesitated and couldn’t, shouldn’t ask why she seemed so different. “Night.” Randy rushed off the porch and got in his truck. He breathed like he had run a mile down the road. She stood there with both hands on the railing. Was it that simple for her to just say good-bye without as much as a reason? Shit. He opened the door, grabbed the fruit basket from the seat, and took it up the steps. He set it on the glider since she didn’t seem prepared to take it herself. “Night.”

      Down the steps and back at his truck, he shifted into gear and pulled out of the driveway feeling more like an idiot than anything else. On the way home, he observed the mountain standing in the glow of the moon, which had slipped out from an opening in the clouds. Maybe love wasn’t meant for a man like him.

      End of Excerpt.

      Thank you for reading.

      Available:

      Apple, Nook, Amazon, Kobo

      Universal Buy Link if interested: https://books2read.com/u/4N1BlY

      graphic with cowboy in corner of squar graphic, girl with red dress dancing pose, book cover cowboy two horses barn, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, image to accompany blog post snippet

      Now, the business stuff…
      First Digital Edition, April 2017 United States of America
      Lassoing the Last Dance © 2017 by Mary J. Dressel

      EXCERPT / Website Information:
      Copyright © Mary J. Dressel Author Mary J. McCoy-Dressel and Mary J McCoy-Dressel Books. All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and owner Mary J. Dressel, Mary J. McCoy-Dressel is strictly prohibited.


      Fruit Basket Credit: diapicard at Pixabay

      Book Cover Copyright Dawné Dominque

      Posted in #AmWriting, Excerpt | 6 Comments | Tagged amazon, Apple, Arizona, cowboy, Double Dutch Ranch Series Love at First Sight, eBook, full-length novel, Kobo, Lassoing the Last Dance, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Nook, sensual contemporary western romance, small town romance
    • #AmWriting Book Excerpt~ Heartbreak’s Reward: The Short Way Home

      Posted at 2:09 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on February 15, 2018

      *Waving* I popped in to post an excerpt today. I finished my huge project, and it’s ready to go to the editor. Yay! Guess what? It has a new cover. The newly revised story deserves a new cover. I can’t wait to show it off.

      Before we get to the excerpt, I’ll explain why I chose one from this particular book–Heartbreak’s Reward Book #2. A couple posts back I mentioned pulling Cowboy Boss and his Destiny and Tristan’s Destiny from publication. I did do this, but WOW did it ever break my heart. It didn’t take long for the dread to fall from my shoulders. In the meantime, I’m telling readers who want to start my Double Dutch Ranch Series in the interim, but can’t find book one, to start with Heartbreak’s Reward Book #2 or Whispers of Forever Book #1 in the Spin Off, Canyon Junction: Hearts in Love Series.

      Another reason I chose this excerpt today is because of  a post I wrote for the 52-Week Blog Challenge tomorrow. A small part of the post pertains to a close-knit family and my relationship with my own sons. I never played matchmaker like my ranch mom.


      Set up: Jase had come to the rescue of a sexy blonde,  a stranger to Canyon Junction, but he had to call his mom to bring gasoline. Once she met Brenna, her matchmaking skills kicked into play.  Jase stopped by his mom’s house later to return the gas can. The three beers at his moms wasn’t the only beer he’d had this night. Slightly modified from the original.

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance, heartbreak's reward

       

      Judy nodded to the third beer in his hand tonight. “You stay off the highway going home. By the way…when are you coming back to church with us?”

      What the hell? “As long as you’re praying for me, I’m good.”

      She put the ice cream away and turned her attention back to Jase. “You never answered me. Are you seeing Brenna again?” She handed the bowl to Destiny and told her she’d be right along to the great room with her.

      Destiny took her snack and left. “Night, Uncle Jase.”

      “Night, sweetie.” He peered at his mom. “I said I don’t know. Leave it at that.” Jase set his hat atop his head. “Please don’t ever do that to me again.” He got his boots from the doorway and pulled them on.

      Judy fanned her hand at him. “You hush, I was trying to help.”

      Jase tossed his hat to the table and wrapped his mom in a big hug. “I know you were. I’m not sure if I’m ready…” He dropped his hands and his mom shoved a lock of hair off his forehead. “Well, Mom. I…I don’t know. One woman ruined my life, and I’m not sure I should chance it again.”

      “Now, Jase, please don’t give up on love.” Judy rested her hand on his shoulder. “You’re too good of a man and never deserved what happened. A day doesn’t go by that I don’t want to hold those babies in my arms. I worry about them, too. When Destiny asks about Jaelle and Joey, it about breaks my heart.”

      Jase picked up his hat. “Well, I’m heading home. Tomorrow I have to start breaking that last horse I bought.” He gave a woeful sigh. “You know, I’m not sure what to do with the kids’ horses. If I get rid of them, it’s like I’m giving up on ever finding them again. But keeping them…is one more reminder they’re…gone.” The beer had made him emotional and weakened his senses. Not what he wanted to show his mother.

      “One day, somehow, we’ll find those kids.”

      Her words choked him up. “I promised the last night they were home, I’d never get rid of our family horses.”

      Judy hugged him and ran her hand over his back. “Then you answered your own question.”

      He appreciated his mom’s comfort, but it’d be better if he hadn’t had so much to drink. “It’s expensive keeping the horses.” He dropped his gaze to the floor but glanced back at his mom. “But…when they come back home, they’ll be wanting them.” His throat constricted and he forced down a swallow.

      “Absolutely.” Judy picked up her cup and made tea. “Well, I best get in there with Destiny now, unless you want to talk some more, honey.” He shook his head. Judy kissed him on the cheek. “Ah, Jase, honey… Brenna seems like a nice woman. Maybe you should think again about starting over, or at least getting out and having fun with someone. That doesn’t mean you can’t still look for Jaelle and Joey. It wouldn’t be giving up by letting another person inside. You deserve more than you’re allowing yourself.”

      He pictured Brenna’s face and remembered her soft body when he’d touched her. How his had responded at touching her. “Mom, I… Maybe you’re right.” Jase gave a short nod. “We’ll see.”

      Judy gave his arm a pat. “Good night, son. You best take the short way home.”

       

      Heartbreak's Reward Book 2 Double Dutch Ranch Series, Mary J McCoy Dressel

       

      Featured Image credited to Pixabay.

      Posted in #AmWriting, Excerpt, Heartbreak's Reward | 4 Comments | Tagged #AmReading, #AmWriting, #WritersLife, Arizona, Canyon Junction: Hearts in Love Series, cowboy, Double Dutch Ranch Series, Double Dutch Ranch Series Love at First Sight, Heartbreak's Reward, Horse rancher, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Matchmaker, Matriarch, romance series, western romance, Whispers of Forever
    • (Not) Short Snippet Saturday: No Need to Call Me Ma’am

      Posted at 12:31 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on December 6, 2017

      Waving hello! I hope you aren’t sick of me posting excerpts of late because I’m including one here for Finding Kimber. Earlier this year I had backed away from posting many Short Snippet Saturday posts. I haven’t scheduled promo for this new release like I have in the past other than social media and a sidebar cover promotion here and there. I guess we’ll consider this a promo post.  🙂  Sorry if I bore you to death.

      Note: Last week I participated in the Second Change Romance Promo and Book Cover Poll at Storyfinds. My book cover for Whispers of Forever: Mending Christmas, won. Thanks to those of you who voted.

      For newcomers, Whispers of Forever is the first book in the Canyon Junction: Hearts in Love Series. (A Double Dutch Ranch Spin Off Series.) The following excerpt is from the second book in the series. Three is now available too.

      All right, that’s enough blabbing for now. Let’s get to the excerpt.


      In the release announcement, you met Tressa Garnett in the opening scene of Finding Kimber.  Let’s see how she deals with life on a ranch, and Zach, in her new identity:

      —

      “Canyon Junction?”

      “Ah, yeah. This is Canyon Junction. Arizona?” His eyes questioned for a moment, but he nodded toward the road again. “The store will be on your left off the highway. You’ll eventually find other places to shop.” He glanced at her vehicle. “Use GPS. Give me your phone. I’m fairly new here by the standards of this town. I was forced to find my way around.”

      “I’m a city girl. I’ll make my way.” She pulled her phone from her jeans pocket and handed it to her bossy foreman. No one told her she lived in Canyon Junction. She reflected on the name of the newspaper—Canyon Junction Gazette. Oh, boy.

      “I’m entering my phone number along with the name of the store. You’ll find it.” He handed it back. Glistening white teeth gave way to an inviting smile.

      “Thank you.” She read what he had written. “Assuming my vehicle has GPS.”

      “You don’t know if your vehicle has GPS?” Now he looked at her as if she were an idiot, which frustrated her.

      She rubbed at her arms. “It was delivered this morning. I haven’t looked inside yet.”

      “Lucky girl.”

      She left his side and hurried down the drive ahead of him. I’m a woman not a girl. And she didn’t feel lucky to have lost everything she ever owned and loved. Her new beginning brought a mouthy ranch hottie with an attitude. She glanced back, and he still stared at her. It made her want to growl out a few four-letter words at him. In fact, she might before the day ended.

      Back inside the house she got her keys, but when she came out, he was nowhere to be seen. Good. Kimber started the SUV and perused the dash, taking in the new car smell. Indeed, the vehicle had everything—more than her vehicle at home had. She’d set it before leaving, and she’d also check maps for the Double Dutch Ranch. Nothing would keep her away from the Equine Camp taking place there.

      Zach strutted up to her when she got out, his demeanor full of confidence. “Could I ask you something, ma’am?”

      “Certainly, but you don’t have to call me ma’am.”

      He tapped the brim of his hat. “Sorry, I’ll try to remember, Ms. Sinclair.”

      Kimber scratched at her arms, a habit she had when frustrated. She hadn’t wanted to be. Too much had happened in a short time, and her fuse shortened by the moment. “What did you want to ask?”

      His chest rose in a sigh, which she took for frustration of his own. “What do you plan on doing with this place? You have two horses. That’s barely enough to keep a foreman around. I want something steady.”

      “Well—”

      “And by the way. If I’m a foreman, who the hell am I a foreman to? There’s nobody here but you and me.”

      “I don’t have an answer to either of your questions.” She knew nothing that was going on here and didn’t like being out of control like this. “Maybe I’ll start a rescue, but I haven’t given it much thought. I need time here. I know I have only two horses.”

      “A rescue ranch has already been done. A rancher at the Double Dutch started a horse rescue some years ago. Does good for him from what I hear. Hard to believe how many horses need rescuing so they don’t get slaughtered.”

      “Ooh, that’s awful. Well, can’t we have two in this town?”

      “Do you know how big this town is? No, probably not since you don’t even know what town you live in.”

      Son of a bitching smart ass. Kimber fisted her hands at her sides. His rock-solid chest in that blue t-shirt looked like something good to pound. She peered into his blazing green eyes, then nodded toward the barn. “I’ll be back when I finish shopping. I’m sure something around here needs worked on. The barn needs fresh paint. The interior could use some repair, including the inside of my house. I’ll let you know when lunch is ready.” She tromped back toward the house.

      “Don’t bother.”

      So, this is how it’ll be? Damn hardheaded Idaho cowboy.


      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance


      Thanks for reading. Have a wonderful Wednesday. See you on Friday with a new 52-Week Blog Challenge theme. It’s already written.  ❤  I’m ahead of the game this week.

       

      Posted in #AmWriting, Canyon Junction: Hearts in Love Series, Excerpt | 3 Comments | Tagged #AmWriting Romance, #WritersLife, (Not) Short Snippet Saturday: No Need to Call Me Ma'am, Book Cover Poll, Canyon Junction: Hearts in Love Series, cowboy, cowpuncher, Double Dutch Ranch: Love at First Sight, Finding Kimber, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Second Chance Romance, StoryFinds, western romance, Whispers of Forever: Mending Christmas
    • A Second Chance Romance ~Theme Week

      Posted at 9:23 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on November 29, 2017

      Howdy Hump Day!

      I love watching movies or reading about a second chance romance! Maybe that’s why I wrote a book about a couple who met again after thirteen years of being apart. Did their love ever die? Was it meant to be? The townspeople in my small town of Canyon Junction think so, and everyone is rooting for Jake and Beth.


      First, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty:

      This week Whispers of Forever: Mending Christmas is over at StoryFinds for their Second Chance Romance Theme Week. Along with the book promotion, Whispers is also in a cover contest. I know, I know, I said I wouldn’t do these cover polls anymore when I had to ask for reader votes, and I haven’t for a few years. The pages are slow-loading, so be patient.

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel western romance

      At StoryFinds, the site owner does a lot of promo for the cover poll. With a new release in this series, I wanted to do a bit of promo for the first book too. If you’re up to visiting the Theme Week Cover Poll, here is the link.   🙂 I’ve also included an excerpt from Whispers of Forever: Mending Christmas. There is also an excerpt to go with the promo on StoryFinds.


      Moving On

      Set-up:

      The following excerpt comes from Chapter Five. Oh, boy, a lot has already happened since Jake and Beth ran into each other unexpectedly a few chapters ago. They’ve met for coffee, with his son along, on occasion, and Jake visited her home once. Now, weeks later, Jake Lawton and Beth Marconi are about to go on their first date in thirteen years.  They aren’t teenagers anymore. ❤

      What can get in their way this time?

      She brought out a part of him no one else could. No matter what it was, or what bothered him, she had found ways to dig it out. She should’ve been a damn psychologist. Well, he was about to cave again. “The first night at the restaurant when you walked out the door, I told myself you wouldn’t get away this time. Now, you’re talking about leaving.”

      A softness lingered on her face, and her lips slightly parted as she peered at him. “I’m home, Jake. I’m not going anywhere. I’ve wanted this since my divorce. San Antonio wasn’t for me if I had to be there alone. All I wanted was to have my own place here.”

      “Well, darlin’, there are a lot of condos in Canyon Junction. If you think that’s the old Jake being pushy, I guess you’re right.” When the radio went off, he put his arm around her shoulder and strolled to his truck to turn it back on. “This song and you in my arms is like old times.”

      Beth removed his arm from her shoulder and leaned against his truck. “A lot of things have changed. We’ve changed. But it didn’t take long to know a part of us hasn’t.” She smiled and his heart skipped a beat, for she said what he had been thinking.

      “I’ve noticed.” Jake gave her a cocky grin.

      Beth folded her arms over her chest and crossed her legs at the ankle while leaning against the truck. “Are you coming to my house? We can always get Italian to go. Tonight I’d like to kick back and relax.”

      “Nah, I’m not in the mood for Italian anymore. You got a grill at your house?”

      She shook her head. “My parents stopped grilling years ago. They turned into the frozen-dinners-at-3:00 p.m., crowd. Yes, it’s true, my Italian mother heated frozen dinners on occasion.”

      “No way. Wasting all the good cooking she used to do? You still like steak, Macaroni? Because I got a grill.” So much for being unsure of spending time alone together, because now it was all he could think about. The magnetism began to sizzle in a heartbeat, or it had never left.

      “Sometimes. Let’s do this.”

      The way her gaze ran over him as she spoke, caused a shudder. What had she seen in him? Jake placed his palms against the truck bed, one on each side of her and leaned close. “Let’s drop your car off, and you ride to my ranch with me. I’ll take you back home later on the way to pick up Trace, or you can go with me to get him.”

      Beth set her hands on his shoulders. Her eyes sparkled. “I made cheesecake last night.”

      Jake licked his lips, moving in closer. He wanted to kiss her so damn badly. “All right. I’ll follow you to your house.” For a moment, their gazes held, and it took all he had to pull away. If he didn’t know himself better, he’d swear he was shaking. Being close to her, smelling her, caused a rousing he wanted to let loose.

      On the way back to her car, she wrapped her arm around his waist. “Do you think we went through a time warp or worm hole? It almost seems like thirteen years hasn’t passed.”

      Jake slipped his arm around her shoulder, and he had a hard time swallowing. He opened her car door. When she got in and glanced up at him with those shamrock green eyes, his heart ached. Not a heartache, but an ache in his heart because that quick, he wanted her in his future. Enough time had been wasted between them, when it should’ve been them, all along.

      “Want to know a secret?” Beth held the door from closing.

      Jake blinked a couple times. “Oh, yeah, baby, I like secrets.”

      “If I’d had a son, his name would’ve been Trace, just like you and I had joked about. Named after the country singer you used to like. I loved the name, but not so much the music.”

      “Our kids with the same name would’ve been fantastic in such a freaky way.” He nodded and went back to his truck. Jake drove behind her all the way, and as they drove down her road, that big old Superstition Mountain to his left reminded him of the many nights he drove that same road to pick her up for a date, and then the last time, to run away with her—to marry her. What would’ve happened if that night had taken place?

      Western Romance, Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, Series RomanceY’all have a great week.

      Heart Image: Pixabay

      Posted in #AmWriting, #WritersLife, Canyon Junction: Hearts in Love Series, Excerpt | 13 Comments | Tagged Cover Poll, cowboys, Dating, first love, Mary J McCoy-Dresel, Second Chance Romance, small town, StoryFinds, Theme Week, western romance, Whispers of Forever: Mending Christmas
    • Short Snippet Saturday on Wednesday…And Then Some

      Posted at 12:46 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on June 28, 2017

      western romance, contemporary romance, Mary J McCoy-DresselNope, this isn’t Saturday, but it’s a snippet. Read down far enough you’ll find it after a bit of whining. I’ve attempted to write a post all week, but I’ve been living in pain since last Friday, and each day seems worse than the one before. Due to my own stupidity, I injured my back and hip by doing something, well, stupid. The worse part is I knew better than to lift the two extremely heavy blue shopping bags at the same time. I knew better than to try to move a huge, filled ceramic planter on my patio. I rolled, not lifted it, but the bending over position while moving it did me in, I guess.

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romanceIt feels like it did when I ruptured two disks in my back and suffered from Sciatica some years ago and missed six months of work. It wasn’t until I had a steroid shot in my back, that I found relief and life began again. At this point, I can’t stand and/or walk for even five minutes without pain, and I have to sit down, which means I can’t walk into my doctor’s office, which is a long walk from the parking lot.

      I’ve tried ice and heat. Aleve and Tylenol. I don’t know what to do at this point other than moan and complain to avoid crying and cursing. My doggie is suffering from pain in her hips, legs, and now it seems, a foot. Sometimes she can’t get up. Now, I can relate to what she must go through 24/7. And tomorrow, the 29th, is my birthday. It’s okay, I stopped counting them a while ago. Unfortunately, friends and family haven’t. It’s better than the alternative, and I appreciate their thoughts and wishes.


      UPDATE: What’s happening with Finding Kimber, #2 in Canyon Junction: Hearts in Love Series? Remember the challenge I had with this book? I changed the genre when it was about 3/4 finished? Well, I also had to change part of the plot because I drove myself crazy while trying to work with something that wouldn’t have worked. Once I changed it, I sailed to the end. It’s been through three revisions with thousands of words cut, and now I’m trying to let letting it sit for a while. I hate to plan too far in advance these days, but it looks like this book is on track for a 2017 release. Lord willing…


      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romanceToday I decided to post a snippet from Lassoing the Last Dance. I’m proud of this fourth book in the series–my newest release.

      Set Up: This evening, Roxanne is headed to the Double Dutch Ranch to help her best friend Nora set up for an important dinner the next day. She’s feeling on-top-of-the-world, if you’ll excuse the cliché. But…

      Modified to avoid spoilers. Enjoy…

      He rammed her again. She gripped the steering wheel even tighter. Fear she had lived with until last month returned to the forefront. Enough of this. She stomped on the gas pedal and took the speed up to sixty, and she wasn’t comfortable driving like this on rutted Rocky Road.

      Another glance into her mirror as she increased her speed, showed the car continuing close behind. She peered back at the road in front of her with barely enough time to avoid hitting a dog, or some animal of the night. Roxanne swerved and ran off the road. She hit the brakes and her front tires settled into a dip. She took a deep breath then lifted her eyes to the rear view mirror.

      Was this going to be where she died?

      She slammed one palm against the wheel and pressed on the accelerator. Nothing. Roxanne searched for her phone. The car behind stopped. A man got out and raised a rifle to his shoulder and just stood there. Without a doubt—her nightmare began all over again. No. No. This can’t be happening. A cold fear swept over her. This only happens in freaking movies! She dialed Randy.

      Glass shattered as he busted the window with the butt of the rifle. Glass covered her. Her cheek stung. “Get your ass out of there, Roxanne.”

      No way! Fear choked her. Leaning forward to block his view, she attempted to stick her phone into her pocket, but he yanked her out. She wiped at the blood on her face. “What is going on? I t-thought you didn’t have anything to do with w-what h-happened to m-me.”

      He slammed the door then shoved her against it and held her there with his hand against her throat. God, help me! Please. Not this again. As quickly as he held her, he released her. How far would she get if she ran? “Leave me alone, you jackass. What’s this about?”

      He leaned the rifle against his shoulder. His knee pressed into her thigh. “I’m not done. You’re still breathing.”

      “What? You were involved after all.” She damned herself for letting her guard down. Any minute her stomach would heave. Where could she go? Her thoughts of escaping were out of control. She didn’t know if the call to Randy went through.

      “I had nothing to do with what happened to you. I sat back and let the other ordeal play out. How lucky can one man get to have someone else take the blame?” A low and demonic snicker snarled from his throat.

      If she had learned anything about survival, this time she wasn’t going down without a fight. She had the flat heeled shoe today. “You’ll have to shoot me in the back,” she said, as she kneed him with all her might and took off running.

      End of Excerpt. Thanks for reading.

      Universal Buy Link

      Savvy horse trainer Randy Drake never loved a woman like he loved Roxanne, but after more than a year of a long-distance relationship, she cut off communication without explanation and broke his heart. Now she’s moved back to Canyon Junction without telling him, proof she’s not interested. But his stubborn heart can’t seem to let go.

      Professional dancer Roxanne Connor has a good reason for not letting Randy know she’s back. An accident nearly destroyed her, and she’s not the same person Randy knew. Avoiding him, she chooses to live in a self-appointed exile, if she can ignore the craving for his touch and the memory of his kisses.

      But secrets in a small town are never truly safe. When Randy learns the reason Roxanne cold-shouldered him, he’s willing to give their love another try, but someone else is determined to keep them apart. Will their rekindled love be strong enough to withstand the obstacles mounting against them, or will the embers that glowed in their past grow cold under the pressure?


      © Mary J. McCoy-Dressel and Author Mary J McCoy-Dressel Books 2007 – 2017. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from Mary J. McCoy-Dressel is strictly prohibited.

      Photo Credits: Road: Pixabay. Window: © Khajornkiat | Dreamstime.com

      Posted in #AmWriting, #WritersLife, Double Dutch Ranch Series, Excerpt | 12 Comments | Tagged #AmWriting, #WritersLife, Arizona, Back pain, contemporary romance, cowboy, full length novel series, hip pain, Lassoing the Last Dance, mary j mccoy dressel, romance series, Short Snippet Saturday, Short Snippet Saturday on Wednesday, western romance
    • Get Hooked Wednesday~ Nothing is the Same ~ #MFRWHooks

      Posted at 7:14 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on May 3, 2017

      Short Snippet from my new Release!

      Well, hello I haven’t done Book Hooks for a long time.

      Join me and the other authors at Marketing For Romance Writers Blog who would like to hook you on their book with only a few lines… Since I have a brand NEW RELEASE, I’m posting more than a few lines from:

       

       

      Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight #4

      Lassoing the Last Dance

       

      She’s too proud to ask him to change his life for her. He’s too stubborn to let her give up.


       

      Set Up: Roxanne recently returned to Canyon Junction. She and her best friend, Nora, are having a discussion before getting out of Nora’s truck. Nora is planning a get-together. Modified from the original.

      “While you’re at it, drop the hint we don’t want Randy there.”

      “No, Roxy, you’re the one who doesn’t want Randy there. We all like him. He’s a nice guy. How soon you forget how you lost your mind the day you met him.”

      It was true, and she’d lose her senses upon seeing him again if she allowed it. His longer ebony hair, those damn eyes. Roxanne chuckled to herself. Upon meeting him, she had visualized his eyes as blue, but they couldn’t be further from blue. How did she make such a mistake—missing those sexy brown, long-lashed orbs? She had been blinded to his handsome face, that’s how. “I admit he’s a nice guy. I never said he wasn’t. You aren’t making it any easier.”

      “I don’t intend to, either. I saw the way you two were with each other, and how content you looked around him.”

      “The past.” Roxanne held Nora’s sleeve, and her eyes misted. “I mean it. The past. Nothing is the same. Please let it go. I’m destined to be alone now.”

      End

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Western romance, series romance

      About

      Savvy horse trainer Randy Drake never loved a woman like he loved Roxanne, but after more than a year of a long-distance relationship, she cut off communication without explanation and broke his heart. Now she’s moved back to Canyon Junction without telling him, proof she’s not interested. But his stubborn heart can’t seem to let go.

      Professional dancer Roxanne Connor has a good reason for not letting Randy know she’s back. An accident nearly destroyed her, and she’s not the same person Randy knew. Avoiding him, she chooses to live in a self-appointed exile, if she can ignore the craving for his touch and the memory of his kisses.

      But secrets in a small town are never truly safe. When Randy learns the reason Roxanne cold-shouldered him, he’s willing to give their love another try, but someone else is determined to keep them apart. Will their rekindled love be strong enough to withstand the obstacles mounting against them, or will the embers that glowed in their past grow cold under the pressure?

      UNIVERSAL Buy Link: books2read.com/u/4N1BlY


      First Amazon Customer Review:

      5.0 out of 5 starsLoved it!!

      By Amazon Customer on May 2, 2017
      Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
      Love this book and all the ones before it!!! Can’t wait for more from you Mary!!!

      Thanks for visiting today. Enjoy your week!

      Remember this is a blog hop so please pop over to the Marketing for Romance Writers blog to read more.

      1.
      Daryl Devore
      2.
      Get Hooked Wednesday~ Nothing is the Same
      3.
      Rebecca’s Lair
      4.
      Iris Blobel
      Posted in #AmWriting, Double Dutch Ranch Series, Excerpt | 12 Comments | Tagged #AmWriting, #MFRWhooks, Book Hooks, Double Dutch Ranch Series Love at First Sight, excerpt, Full Length Novel, Lassoing the Last Dance, mary j mccoy dressel, New Release, romance series, Snippet, western romance
    • #AmWriting ~Western Romance Teaser~ Lassoing the Last Dance

      Posted at 5:19 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on April 26, 2017

      It’s been a hectic week but I still have to work. Here’s a little teaser for y’all. Roxanne  has strolled down to the barn with Trista Rose, a toddler and runs into Tristan, and eventually Randy. Do you remember Nora and Tristan from earlier in the series? Nora is Roxanne’s best friend. This excerpt is slightly modified from the original.

      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Western romance, series romance


      “How you doing, Tristan?” Roxanne smiled to think of Nora with this handsome, good-natured cowboy, and she couldn’t help but smile at him.

      “Pretty good,” said Tristan. “Nora said you might want to ride. How about taking Betsy? You’ve ridden her before. She’s good to go.”

      “Sweet!” Roxanne had an attachment for this horse from the earlier times she had visited and rode with Nora. “I’d love to ride her.” Roxanne put her hand on his arm. “I appreciate you and Nora so much. Thank you.”

      “I’ll saddle her for you—”

      “No, I need to do it myself. If I’m going to start living… Well, you know what I mean. It’s something I have to do, Tristan.”

      “All righty, if you’re sure. Remember, the mounting block is right outside the barn if you need it.” Tristan wiggled his daughter’s hand. “Tell Roxanne you’ll see her later.”

      “Bye!” She waved like a little child actress.

      “I love you, Trista Rose. See you later. Tristan, tell Nora you have her now?” Tristan nodded. “I’ll text her.” She entered Betsy’s stall. “How you doing, girl? Ready for some fun? I’ll be right back.”

      Mary j McCoy-Dressel, western romance, lassoing the last danceInside the tack room, she eyed the saddles, bridles, and blankets. Hmm, maybe she should’ve let Tristan put it on for her. Setting that old sissy idea aside, she gathered the blanket and placed it on the post near Betsy. “Hold on.” Running her hand over her long, black mane, she left for the tack room again. While reaching for a saddle, hands clenched her shoulders, and slid down her arms to entwine their fingers. She was bathed in heat as the weight of his strong body pressed against her. “Mmm…”

      “Let me do it for you this time, darlin’.”

      His hot body remained against her and his lips went to her neck. For sure, she wouldn’t mind having him right here in the tack room, if there were a guarantee Tristan’s ranch hands wouldn’t walk in. Her heart went thumpity, thump, and if she had doubted sweating earlier, now it was obvious. She leaned her head against him and squeezed his hands. The fact he cozied up like this excited her. “Hi, Randy. I saw you busy out there.”

      The scent of him wafted through her nostrils, and whatever it was in his makeup, it sucked the sense out of her. Her heart almost matched the cadence of his beating against her back. She turned in his arms and their lips immediately connected in a sensuous rage. She wrapped her arms around his shoulders and gave the kiss everything it deserved. Roxanne wanted more when it came to an end. She peered up into lustful eyes. “What a nice surprise.”

      “Yeah, imagine that.” Randy glanced around the tack room, then rested his gaze on the opened door. “How bad do you want to ride?”

      “Oh, very, very badly, cowboy. You have no idea.”

      “I’m talking about Betsy. What are you talking about?”

      End of Excerpt


      Whew! I feel the same way about Randy…

      This might be the longest excerpt I’ve ever posted. If you got through the whole thing, thanks for reading. It could’ve been longer, but I deleted some at the beginning. Twice.


      Couple: Vikkaszone.com Vikkas and Anna.

      Posted in #AmWriting, Double Dutch Ranch Series, Excerpt | 7 Comments | Tagged book, cowboy, Double Dutch Ranch Series Love at First Sight, full length love story, horseback riding, Lassoing the Last Dance, novel, Romance, saddle, sensual romance, series romance, tack room
    • #AmWriting Short Snippet Saturday: The Old Red Barn

      Posted at 9:31 am by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on November 26, 2016

       

      western romance, contemporary romance, Mary J McCoy-Dressel

      Look what I’m back with on Saturday! I know it’s been a long time. Today I bring you a snippet from © Whispers of Forever. Of course, right?   ❤️


      From Chapter Four: (slightly modified)

      With everything fine at home, Beth got in her car and drove the same way she used to drive once she got her license. Outside his ranch, she studied the signposts that led up the driveway. Stretched across the top in large lettering, it said: JL Ranch atop a smaller sign that read Lawton Ranching Supplies. He used to talk about leaving this small town and never coming back. She was proud that he stayed and made a name for himself. Jake had always had the drive to succeed. Dust hadn’t yet settled on the road. Maybe he had arrived this minute himself.

      Driving up the road, she was amazed at what he had done. He took an old house and made it appear brand new—even the front facing had been redone, plus he’d added a large porch. A lump caught in her throat. As she glanced to the right, there sat a small barn, but through a clearing between that and the main house, she spotted the old, red barn—the paint no longer faded. Her throat tightened, trying to push a lump down. “He kept it.”

      mary j mccoy-dressel, western romanceThe front door opened. Jake pushed the screen then skipped down the steps to her car. “Beth. Wow. What are you doing here? I mean, I’m glad you’re here, but… You found my place.” He turned to look back at the house.

      What had she been thinking? She lifted her palms to her cheeks. “I’m sorry I should’ve called.”

      “No, well, my wife is leaving later tonight, and she came to see Trace. The last farewell for a while so to speak, I guess. The boyfriend is waiting for her at her condo. They’re flying out in his little piss-ass plane.” Jake backed up, and his hands sliced through the air. “I can’t believe she actually took my son up in it. I’m sorry, that got away from me. I’m still trying to wrap my head around it all while behaving like a sane person instead of a maniac.”

      “Trace?” She peered up into his puppy dog eyes and smiled, saying softly, “You named your son Trace?”

      Jake grinned. “You remembered. Yeah, I named my first kid Trace J. Just an initial. Sometimes I call him T.J.”

      “Of course I remember. The name we had picked out for our first…” She had to get out of there. He never forgot. “I’m leaving. Go have dinner.” Beth put her car in reverse.

      “Wait, Beth. Can you come back tonight?”

      “Umm, I don’t know.” Her heart beat as fast as baby bird wings flapped. Her palms sweat. “I don’t know. I’ll call first if I do.”

      “That’s not necessary.” Jake put his hand on her shoulder. “Come back tonight. I’d love to talk—spend some time…” He backed away as she removed her foot from the brake. “I never forgot us, Beth.”

      Omigod. Omigod. “I’ll call you.” When she backed up, the screen door opened, and his son came out onto the porch. What a memory. It was like Jake had done the last day she had been here. Stop staring. Hit the gas pedal! He had stood there not wanting her to leave—his dad holding him back. But, now she was home. “Bye, Jake.” Tears burned in the back of her eyes. What had she started now? Longing for him only made the sight of him harder to bear.


      New Release, Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, western romance, small town romance, first love. second chances

      Hey, Everybody! I hope you enjoyed the snippet, which is a little longer than my normal “short” snippets. This is from my brand-new release, which I recently  announced to the public. I personally love this scene, but I’ve been in Beth and Jake’s head and they’ve been in mine for over a year now, so I’m kind of sentimental. I hope the world is kind to them.   ❤

      All y’all enjoy your weekend.

      This song reminds me of my Jake and Beth. Writing the end of a book is bittersweet for me. I miss them. When I listen to this video, I smile because I know their story, and I’m sad because I know their story. (Country music ahead.)  🙂 Thanks for stopping by.


      Barn image credit: Pixabay

      Young couple image credit: © Nolte Lourens | Dreamstime.com (enhanced by me)

      Posted in #AmWriting, Excerpt, Short Snippet Saturday | 6 Comments | Tagged Christmas Romance, contemporary romance, first love, holiday, mary j mccoy dressel, Romance, romance series, Second Chances, series, western romance, Whispers of Forever: Mending Christmas
    • Surprise Short Sunday Snippet (Try Saying That Fast)

      Posted at 2:02 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on June 7, 2015

      Countdown to publication…  Of the Cowboy’s Own Accord — Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight #3 Update: Now Available

      #Western #Romance

      © Zabelin

      © Zabelin

      Sunday Snippet: She longed for him. Kissing him good-bye before he got on that bus about killed her. He had lined up with the rest of them and they marched right on out of there, but not before he found her in the crowd and winked. That’s what she’d hold on to.

      I’ll be adding one or more new song titles to Dane’s Playlist every day this week.

      Blurb

      Army Ranger Dane Carlson never means to fall in love before leaving for another tour of duty, but unexpectedly, he does. While deployed, he finds himself being sent home early to the family ranch to make a heartrending decision. Little does he know he isn’t the only one making decisions. His first priority is to rekindle the flame after losing communication with Gracelyn Clark. The woman who owns his heart and has since the moment their gaze connects. But, now nothing is the same as when they met.

      The first round of news is surprise enough, yet Gracelyn continues to release shocking information detrimental to their future. Can they make it work after so few days together seven months ago? Adjusting to many new things in his life isn’t easy as it is, so to pull himself back to the man he’s become, could be the biggest test of all—in order to protect his own.

      Challenges abound even as Dane and Gracelyn come to terms with the decisions they’ve made. Whatever tomorrow brings, their only choice is acceptance—to take one day at a time and face life as it comes.

      ofthecowboysownaccord_med

      Posted in #AmWriting, Excerpt | 10 Comments | Tagged Double Dutch Ranch Series Love at First Sight, mary j mccoy dressel, Of the Cowboy's Own Accord, Romance, romance series, western romance
    • This Site is Not Intended for Children Under the Age of 13.

    • COPYRIGHT 2007 – 2021 by Mary J. Dressel All Rights Reserved

    • New Release

    • Search this Sight

    • THANK YOU READERS!

      I appreciate your support.
    • Click to Sign up for Mary’s Newsletter. Powered by MailChimp.

    • #1
      #1
      Heartbreak's Reward, Mary J McCoy-Dressel
      #2
      Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Blog post snippet
      #3
      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Western romance, series romance, book cover, cowboy, barn, two horses
      #4
      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance, cowboys, image used on website
      #2
      #3
      #3
      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Western romance, adult coloring book,
      Coloring Book
      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Bull Rider Series new cover, western romance
      Bull Rider Series 1
      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Bull Rider Series new cover, western romance
      #2
      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Bull Rider Series new cover, western romance
      #3
      Mary J McCoy-Dressel, Secret Santa's Rundown Sleigh A holiday romance novella, New Release, Book Cover man and woman embraced at dark with snow falling, blog post Mighty Mac the Mackinac Bridge
      Single Title
      New Release, Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, western romance, small town romance, first love. second chances
      Spin Off Series #1
      Double Dutch Ranch #1
      Double Dutch Ranch #1
    • Social Media

      • Facebook
      • Twitter
    • Top Posts & Pages

      • Welcome Hi, I'm glad you found your way here where…
        Welcome Hi, I'm glad you found your way here where…
      • Blogging for the Hop--My Sexy Saturday--Touch
        Blogging for the Hop--My Sexy Saturday--Touch
    • Featuring Cade & Faith

    • Follow Mary J. McCoy-Dressel ~ Contemporary Romance on WordPress.com
    • Privacy Policy

      Terms of Use

    • Enter your email address to follow this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

    • Follow on BOOKBUB

    • © Mary J. Dressel, Author Mary J. McCoy-Dressel and Mary J McCoy-Dressel Books 2007 – 2021. All Rights Reserved.

      Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and prospective copyright holders, e.g., guest posters, is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Mary J. McCoy-Dressel and Mary J. McCoy-Dressel Books and/or the author of guest posts with appropriate and specific direction to the original content with this Site’s URL.

      Read additional Terms of Use.

    • Terms of Use & Privacy Policy

      Terms of Use

      Privacy Policy

       

    • Enter your email address to follow this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Privacy Policy Link is in the Menu.

      Join 6,438 other followers

    • Website Last Updated March 4, 2021

    • 2021 Monthly Blog Hop

    • 2021 Book Hooks

    • Blogroll

      • a) Professional Bull Riders (PBR)
      • Apache Trail
      • Automattic Inc.
      • Chicago Manual of Style
      • Marketing for Romance Writers Blog MFRW
      • Military Working Dogs: Facebook
      • Romance Writers of America
      • South Mountail Park Stables
      • Suguaro Lake in Arizona
      • Superstition 1 Arizona State Parks, Lost Dutchman State Park
      • Superstition 2 Superstition Mountain
      • Superstition 3 Apache Junction Public Library
      • Superstition 4 Welcome to the Superstition Wilderness Trails
      • Superstition 5 Superstition Search & Rescue
      • Superstition 6 Hiking Flatiron
      • Superstition Mountain Trail Rides
      • The Writer's Forensic Blog by D.P. Lyle, MD
      • Tonto National Forest, Arizona
      • United States Army 75th Ranger Regiment
      • United States Army Rangers
      • WordPress.org
    • Follow Mary J. McCoy-Dressel ~ Contemporary Romance on WordPress.com
    • Night Owl Reviews Top Pick Review, Howdy, Ma'am, Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance author
    • mary j mccoy-dressel, western romance
    • Meta

      • Register
      • Log in
      • Entries feed
      • Comments feed
      • WordPress.com
    • Follow Mary J. McCoy-Dressel ~ Contemporary Romance on WordPress.com
    • Social Media

      • Facebook
      • Twitter
    • Mary’s Publishing Imprint

  • © COPYRIGHT 2007 – 2021 by Mary J. Dressel ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

  • MENU

    • Welcome
    • Blog
    • Mailing List Sign Up
    • Contact Mary
    • Privacy Policy
      • Terms of Use
    • Holiday Novella
    • Two-Five Ranch Outlaws
    • Double Dutch Ranch
    • Canyon Junction: Hearts in Love
      • Visit Canyon Junction
    • Bull Rider Series
      • Bull Rider Series Boxed Set
    • Coloring Book
    • Works in Progress
    • Reading Order
    • Meet Our Heroines
    • Character Family Connections
    • About
    • Seasoned with Destiny: A Gift of Love
  • Click to Subscribe to Mary’s Newsletter. Powered by MailChimp.

Cancel

 
Loading Comments...
Comment
    ×
  • Privacy & Cookies: This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use.
    To find out more, including how to control cookies, see here: Our Cookie Policy