Mary J. McCoy-Dressel ~ Contemporary Romance

Sensual western romance. Heartwarming stories. Strong family ties.
Mary J. McCoy-Dressel ~ Contemporary Romance
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  • Tag: character interview

    • Before the Story~ Interview Questions with a Book Hero

      Posted at 4:04 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on June 17, 2015

      Life:

      Remember when I said I wouldn’t interview one of my characters again? I felt the need to do a pre-book or pre-life story interview with Dane Carlson before readers actually meet him in his upcoming book. There are a few things here about Dane that won’t be in his book.

      Dane has the fourth book in the Double Dutch Ranch Series: Love at First Sight—numbered Book Three. Confusing? Tristan’s Destiny, Bonus Book 1.5 adds to the series.

      You’ll be meeting Dane very soon. Available Now! Let’s delve into a bit of his past.

      Here you go:

      After following Dane to the garage to put his motorcycle away, we came out to the patio to have a little chat. I’m still straightening my hair after that ride. He’s preparing to take a quick ride into the desert on horseback, then he’ll have lunch with his family before leaving on another deployment. Thankfully, he agreed to this interview if I promised not to make it too long. I don’t mind sitting here ogling him either, while sipping a glass of Judy Carlson’s special iced tea.

      MJ: So you’re the youngest of the Carlson brothers. Do your brothers tease you about being the baby of the family?

      DANE: Of all questions, you had to ask that one? Of course they do and sure don’t hesitate callinmotorcycle2g me “little brother.” It’s okay because I know I’m stronger, smarter, and better looking than those two guys. I don’t hesitate to remind them when they get on my case. See, I can tease right back. Should I start on you? After all, you hung on to me so tight on my Harley, I wasn’t sure I could turn the dang handlebar. It kinda felt like I needed a cigarette after, if you know what I mean—

      MJ: I can see you brought your snarkiness with you today. Ah, no, this is about you, not me—

      DANE: We’ll see about that.

      I admit it’s doggone sexy the way the corner of his mouth kind of quirks when he grins. For some reason I’m ready to answer anything he might ask me—he has that kind of control.

      MJ: Can we talk about the nickname your family calls you?

      DANE: No. No!

      MJ: Humph… You kind of resemble your brothers if you look close at your facial features and blue eyes, but you’re blond and their hair is so dark. You’re all very easy on the eyes, either way.

      DANE: I thank you for that, ma’am, but what are you saying? Maybe I’m a ranch hands kid? Shall I invite my mom to this interview to see what she has to say about that? She’s right there in the kitchen making cookies…for me.

      He downright laughed at me that time.

      MJ: Let’s move on. I know you didn’t have ranch hands in New York where you grew up. Back on topic if you don’t mind. Years ago, you gave up ranching to serve your country. Were you tired of ranching or never really got into it?

      DANE: My dad moved us to Arizona—basically on a whim to follow his own dream. Why shouldn’t I follow mine? I’m happy being an Army Ranger. In fact, I love it. rangers in action3I became a soldier at a tough time in my life, so the military helped keep me from going down the wrong path. Since I was already headed that way, I knew I had to do something, or become an embarrassment to my whole family. The sheriff and I have a history. Let’s drop that. By time my dad died, my brothers were here to help out my mom. Everything is good.

      MJ: Sounds like you had issues with your dad. What was your relationship like?

      DANE: Don’t be silly now. I loved my dad and what he stood for. Our relationship? Typical troublemaker son and father, yet he understood me more than anyone. That says it all. He was proud when I became a soldier.

      MJ: Do you ever want to go back to ranching?

      DANE: My mom says some choices are not ours to make and our path is laid out for us. If the need arises I’ll decide then—whatever tomorrow brings… At least I’ll have something to fall back on. Don’t get me wrong, I love the Double Dutch Ranch and what it’s about, including family. I’d never turn my back on my family if they needed me.

      MJ: Or your wife?

      DANE: Of course my wife would be included. IF, I had one. Not in my immediate plans. You sound like my mother now. Are you trying to fix me up with someone? He snickered and flicked his gaze away from me, but right back with steadfast eye contact. I get that a lot.

      He lit a cigarette and kind of smirked again as he stared off into the desert in front of us.

      MJ: Well, one woman comes to mind. What’s your type? I’ll reiterate what your mother says. “Some choices are not ours to make, er, yours to make.” My turn to smirk at the ever so handsome Dane Carlson. Hmm. Little does he know—his type is about to enter his life.

      DANE: Yes, ma’am. I guess I’ll know my type when I meet her. Hope you don’t mind the cigarette, but I’ll be sitting on a fu…ah, a boring plane for a while. I’m making up for the time when I can’t smoke.

      MJ: Congratulations on your recent promotion in the military. Do you enjoy the ceremonies?

      DANE: Thank you. Yes, I do. It makes me proud, not only for myself, but also to see those under me get promoted too.

      MJ: If I understand this correctly, you gave up the chance to go to a military academy to become an officer. Why?

      DANE: What’s wrong with being a principle Non-commissioned Officer, which is what I am you know?

      MJ: Nothing at all. You’re great at doing what you do, and this is also what I wanted for you. I’m happy you agree for once.

      He stood and snickered before pacing a short ways off the patio. He looked good in the forefront of the Superstition Mountains—from the back, and the front. Dane is Mary J McCoy-Dressel, western romance, Double Dutch Ranch Series Booksexceptionally good-looking and well-built. What you’d expect a combat soldier to look like physically. All muscle, and I bet I could flip a quarter off his chest. Whew! I’ll stop now. (To fan myself)

      DANE: Ahem. Do you have any more questions or are dane snip and cropyou going to continue to, um, stare? Because I have to get on a horse to ride with my brother Jase. I’m heading for another deployment, you know and need time to focus—get back into soldier mode. I admit that I’m still in rancher mode. His voice lowered from its commanding deep tone. It’s always hard to leave once I’m home, but don’t get me wrong…leaving is what I do.

      MJ: It’s too bad you have to leave. I agree with your mom that you need someone in your life… Isn’t there a slight chance you’d let someone in?

      Dane took a seat, leaned forward, and cocked his head toward me. His eyes slightly narrowed against the sun.

      DANE: You mean like before? I’ve let women in but my priority is the Army. Most can’t deal with that. But, a chance? Who knows? I suppose it can happen. My mom insists it will. You probably agree?

      Most definitely!

      MJ: Well, I do write romance, so maybe you shouldn’t fight it. Let’s just say I can see into your future. Another bit of advice, Dane. No, never mind… Stay strong and Ranger Up.

      DANE: I always Ranger up. That doesn’t sound good at all, MJ, and I can’t get into any of that negative shi…stuff. I’m part of an elite team, better trained than many others in the world, and they depend on me and the men I help train. I’m a Ranger, ma’am. What we do is because we choose to do it. Don’t ever forget that.

      Shall I salute him? No, I’ll just be proud of him.

      MJ: You’re adamant about your job. I’m very proud of you, Dane, and even though you’re a soldier, our story isn’t a military romance because I write Western Romance. Is that okay with you?

      DANE: Yes, ma’am. Absolutely, because I never know what the future holds, but whichever it is, I’ll always be a soldier and a cowboy or vice versa.

      MJ: I’m glad you see it that way. My way!

      DANE: Sure. Now, it’s about time I grab a saddle and lunch later. Join us for lunch. Mom always has room at her table.

      I noticed he didn’t ask me to join him. Dane is very bold and demanding at times. He brushed his hair back and put on his hat. A black Stetson fit his character, but so does the tan beret he wears with his uniform.

      DANE: Take care, MJ. Don’t forget, I got your back. Now, you coming?

      Oh, goodness, am I coming? His wink got to me. There he goes toward the patio door… But, wait, he’s turning back… He lifted his chin. Before me, I see a man filled with confidence, honor, and courage.

      DANE: HOOAH!

      MJ: Holding tears back as he’s leaving, I repeat it back…HOOAH. Hooah, Dane. Good luck.

      Well, folks, there he is. Hardheaded. Stubborn. Demanding. But also… Hot. Strong. Gallant. Charismatic. I can’t wait for you to meet him.

      Of the Cowboy’s Own Accord — Coming soon…

      UPDATE: Now Available! Oh, Of the Cowboy’s Own Accord is an Amazon #1 Best Seller.

      Posted in #AmWriting, Character Interview | 9 Comments | Tagged character interview, Double Dutch Ranch Series Love at First Sight, hero, mary j mccoy dressel, Of the Cowboy's Own Accord, Romance, sensual contemporary romance, western romance
    • Interview With a Book Heroine- Howdy, Ma’am Book #1

      Posted at 2:22 pm by Mary J. McCoy-Dressel, on May 5, 2013

      Meet Velia Armano

      dreamstime_s_10837833_thumb.jpgI feel so attached to Velia Armano, the heroine in Howdy, Ma’am. Spunky, feisty, beautiful…an Italian photographer hired to do a job for a season. Yet, there’s a side to her that holds tight to her wall of protection. Her heart isn’t ready; she still harbors pain and fear.

      Recovering from an abusive relationship from her ex-husband, she had to learn how to trust. But in six months time, she learned to live again, regained her self-worth, and found confidence. Still my heart cried for her many times, both for good and bad reasons. Little did I know book two would bring…another round of emotions. Book three shows a whole different side to Velia. (and Caulder.)

      I reached out and hugged Velia Armano when she walked in the room. My heart feels her silent pain, and I almost teared up.

      Me- Velia, I just wanted to hug you because I know the hell you’ve been through.

      Velia I try to keep that in the past now. One day I’m sure I won’t even remember it anymore. But…

      I noticed the far off look in her eyes, and I know what she saw in her memory.

      Me- I know it isn’t easy to talk about, hon, and you don’t have to.

      Velia Maybe it will help someone else if I talk about it—and how it all started so gradually. First, a shove here and there, a slap, name calling, and it all led to full blown abuse. I Don't take it.allowed it to go on for too long. Unfortunately, it took the death of my aunt for me to realize the horror of Justin’s abuse toward me. I left to save myself.

      Me- One day, it will only be a brief thought, and you’ll move on and be happy again. I saw a smile and it made my heart soar.

      Velia Yes, maybe being distracted with that hunk of a bull rider can help me forget. I’ll be too busy for the next nine months to remember, at least that’s what I’m hoping will happen.

      Me- Yes, I’m so glad you accepted his offer. You missed your traveling job.

      Velia nodded and acknowledged that was true.

      Velia I looked into those flame blue eyes. You know? It helps me to realize there’s a future and the past is, well…the past. Starting my own photography shop those months ago when I moved to Tucson—helped me—to find me again. Dear Alice and Edward have been such a help. Thank you for them.

      She fluttered her eyelashes and diverted her eyes. She glanced back up at me.

      Velia But when he walked in and offered that job, what could I do when I looked into his eyes? He brought out feelings I had forgotten. But, I’m afraid to let go. I don’t want to get involved with anyone right now.

      She seemed embarrassed, looking away into her own vision. I know she needed that elderly couple in her life to act like surrogate grandparents.

      Me- Yes, I can imagine your dilemma. And your father approves of your job.

      Velia Si, mio padre knows I love to travel and use my camera. He understands me.

      Me- You kept such a horrible secret from him.

      Velia I had to, or… When my father found out, he wanted to… um, I can say my padre had to be held down, and I told him I’d never see him again…if something…happened to Justin, maybe an unexplained… No, I can’t say more.

      Me- I understand, and I also know the reason, and I won’t get into questions about it.

      Velia Grazie.

      Me- Let’s talk a little about your job now. Photographing cowboys? A professional bull rider? A dream come true for some of us lonely women. She laughed, almost a giggle, but not quite.

      Velia I must admit it’s pleasant. But, it’s dangerous. Those bulls are so big. She waved her hand across her face. And so smelly! I like to take a shower as soon as I get back to my room, but then after awhile I don’t notice as much.

      Me- And sometimes you relax in a hot bubbly Jacuzzi with one cowboy in particular.

      Velia Um, yes… he needs to relax his muscles and stiff joints after a show.

      Her cheeks pinked.

      I smiled, but had to move on.

      Me- Velia, you are still in hiding from Justin, your ex-husband.

      Velia Si, but I am not afraid of him anymore. This is why I now carry a handgun.

      Me- I know your inner struggle about that. Could you—

      Velia To protect those I love or myself… She took a deep breath and glanced to the floor. I will make the decision when and if the time comes. She smiled. For now I have a whole team of cowboys to protect me. They treat me like I’m their bambina or something.

      Me- And Nero and Roy. We can’t forget them, right?

      Velia Yes, and I prefer not to talk about my father’s…men.

      I noticed she got fidgety and it was almost time for the show to start. It took some time to set up her cameras and get situated.

      Me- I’d love to spend a day with you cooking. Your food sounds so delicious. Have you always enjoyed cooking? Oh, and I’d love to meet your mother! She seems like such a nice mom.

      Velia  Hey, I’m Italian what else I can tell you? Si, I love cooking, especially with madre and for those I love. Si, yes, mamma is fantastic.

      Me- I can see it’s time for you get to the chute area. There was a knock on the door. She glanced toward it, and the look on her face changed—bright, happy, and a smile played at the corners of her mouth.

      I went to open it and in walked a hot looking cowboy with a black cowboy hat on his head, dressed in a yellow shirt, denim jeans, and black chaps with yellow scattered throughout the fringe. I had to do a double take—tall, sexy, strong looking… Whew! Si, bambino, amore mio!

      Bull-Rope-2_thumb.jpg“Howdy, Ma’am,” he said to me, but his eyes went to the cute Italian. Oh, his eyes! I glanced back at Velia and saw the warm look on her face. Her body language shifted from sadness to joy. Maybe she hasn’t figured it out yet, but something is brewing.

      When he walked over to her, she rose. “I’m here to escort you to the show like I always do. Ready, ma’am?”

      OMG, am I ready ma’am? YES! Wait, he wasn’t talking to me. Oops. I created these people. Did I say, me? What I mean is Velia, our heroine, is she ready for this? The look in his eyes about swept me off my feet, and I can only imagine what it’s like for her to watch him through the camera lens. But, I see hesitation… If only she doesn’t make a big mistake and sink back into her self-appointed exile. If only…

      He took her hand, and when he reached the door, he smiled at me and touched the tip of his hat. “Later, ma’am…”

      I nearly fell to the floor. Later, ma’am he says…

      Velia shook her hand free and came back to me. She took hold of my hands and her brown eyes with that unique green sparkle, stared into mine. Grazie, she said, Thank you.

      I must have been wide-eyed or had some weird expression on my face. Thank me for what? I had to ask.

      “For saving me.” She glanced back at Caulder and he smiled then winked at her. His eyelashes are so long! He held out his hand. Velia hugged me tight before turning back to him. She took his hand and smiled at me before the door closed. He caught it with his foot and glanced back again, nodded. A little bit of a smile appeared on his lips before closing the door.

      I shall not have to worry about her. She’s in very good hands.

      For an interview with Mr Hotness McCutchen, click HERE. Bring a fan.

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      Posted in Bull Rider Series | 4 Comments | Tagged bull rider, character interview, heroine, howdy, interview, Interview With a Book Heroine, Ma'am, mary j mccoy dressel, Photographer
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