Tink's Hump Day Heroes: Judd Black....

It’s that time of week again: “Hump day!” Sorry. I’ve never actually done that before. Never again. Anyway, my muse Tink has traveled to West Texas for the next few weeks to interview my three cowboy heroes from the Ridges of Wayback, TX trilogy (an opportunity she leapt on with a great amount of enthusiasm, I'll add). First up is the hero of Blackest Heart, silent cowboy Judd Black. (It should be noted that Judd submitted his answers in writing and only under enormous pressure…. In fact, his heroine Stella may or may not have filled out parts of the interview for him after he refused, LOL)

 
Tink: Name?
Judd Black
 

Tink: Hair color?

Dark Brown, almost black
 

Tink: Eye color?

Hazel
[Tink: On closer inspection, they are brown shot through with green. Good God, are they gorgeous!] 
 

Tink: Occupation?
I'm a ranch hand at Ridge Range. Sometimes I bull ride at the local rodeo arena.

[Tink: This hero is extremely modest. Everyone in Wayback says he's the best bull rider in town. He has the gold buckles to prove it. Not that they are anywhere to be found in his cabin. I checked.]

 

Tink: Hometown?
Wayback, Texas. Raised by the Ridge family but born in a neighboring town. Not that I talk about life before the Ridges and Wayback. Ever.

 

Tink: Are you the first one on the dance floor or not so much?

I don’t dance
[Tink: He's not lying here. I tried to get him to boot-scoot with me Friday night at The Blue Bug Saloon. No go.]

 

Tink: What is your preferred mode of transportation?

Anything big enough to haul my horse’s trailer and tough enough to get out of the mud come raining season.

Tink: Would you rather tell someone you love them or show it?
Show it.

[Tink: I'll say! It's more in the way he looks at Stella, every damn time. Lucky gal.]

Tink: Who is the person you look up to most in life?
Jim Black, my adoptive father.

Tink: Travel to the past or into the future?
Future. The past wasn’t all that great.

 

Tink: What would you give your heroine if you needed forgiveness?

There’s not much I can give a woman like Stella that she doesn’t already have other than a quiet home away from the city and fame she’s came back to Wayback to escape. Here with me, of course, at the cabin.
[Tink: Ladies, he built this cabin and the barn with his own two hands. And he has a blind dog, Elwood. I think I'm a goner.]

 

Tink: Would you describe yourself as more alpha or beta?
If you’re referring to that fistfight with Stella’s brother, Keefe, he had it coming.

[Tink: He seems to be an alpha in wait. Like a wolf ready to spring into action....]

 

Tink: Would you make the first move or wait it out?.

Stella will tell you I like to sit back and wait.
[Tink: I've been watching these two pretty closely. Technically, it was Judd who made the first move. Just sayin'.]

 

Tink: Do you have a favorite song?
Anything by Johnny Cash.

 

Tink: What is your idea of a dream date?

Quiet night here at the cabin. Steaks on the grill. Some of the Wayback home brew.

 

Tink: Karaoke: yes or no?

Never.

 

Tink: And – most importantly – do you wear boxers, briefs, or commando?

That’s none of your damn business.

Stella: Hi, Tink! I’m happy to report after a night at the cabin with a bottle of Wayback’s best home brew that there’s nothing but Judd underneath those Wranglers J Cheers!

Tink: Yes, yes! Exactly as I suspected. Thank you for delivering the news, Stella! And may I just say, I'm insanely jealous.  

 

 

Dear Judd, please allow me to apologize for my muse, Tink's, behavior in Wayback so far. Apparently, she has been stalking you relentlessly. If it makes you feel any better, I'll be unleashing her on Stella's big brother, Keefe, soon enough....


Readers, I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into my silent cowboy from Blackest Heart. The western romance novella is on sale now at Amazon for just $2.99! See more about it here. Tune in next week for more fun with the Ridge Range cowboys. You can listen to the audio book on sale now. Blackest Heart is also featured in the trade paperback anthology The Way Back Home....

(Today is the last day to enter to win a Ridges of Wayback, TX book of your choice. Head on over to Rogue’s Angels now to find out how….)

Audio Countdown & New Cover Alert

The countdown to Blackest Heart's audio book release has begun at AudioLark and here at Cozy! On September 7, the first book in the Wayback Ridge trilogy and 1st Place More Than Magic Novella will launch and for 24 hours only be on sale for just $2.49.

Plus, I'm sharing some new cover goodness! I had no idea Blackest Heart would be getting a new face for its audible version, but here it is, folks, as well as the blurb from AudioLark....

America’s Sweetheart, Stella Ridge has been away from Wayback for fifteen years paving her way to the top of the acting business. When a car accident leaves her physically and emotionally scarred, the only place she wants to go is home to Texas and her family’s ranch.

The changes that have taken place since her departure are enough to rock her world again. She uncovers a buried tragedy, struggles with the penetrating stares and questions from townsfolk, and comes up against an intriguing and unexpected spark with the silent cowboy and champion bull rider, Judd Black. Their wounded souls draw them together and Stella begins to realize that only in him can she find the solace she sought by leaving the bright lights of Hollywood.

I spoke about Blackest Heart and other stories in my Wayback, TX trilogy over at Aileen Harkwood's blog yesterday, where you can still enter to win a prize basket from the Wild Roses Blog Tour. And don't forget that a paperback edition of The Way Back Home anthology featuring Blackest Heart along with Abbey MacInnis's Delighting Miss Daisy and Marguerite Arotin's Return of the Prodigal Daughter is still up for grabs at Alternative Read!

Paperback Up for Grabs at Alternative Read

Today the Ridges of Wayback, Texas are featured at Alternative Read in celebration of their upcoming audio-book debut. Read three steamy excerpts and enter to win a trade paperback edition of The Way Back Home anthology - which includes Book I in the Wayback Ridge Trilogy and 1st Place More Than Magic Novella, Blackest Heart.

Time's Running Out....

Time's running out! Only 11 more days to get your copy of The Way Back Home anthology in trade paperback from The Wild Rose Press! Don't miss out on this great deal. The book includes three novellas from TWRP favorite series - Wayback, Texas: "Where a Cowboy Falls in Love Every Eight Seconds!" That's three cowboys in one....

Delighting Miss Daisy by Abbey MacInnis

Smooth-talking Sam Howard comes to Wayback to advertise, while bakery entrepreneur Daisy Porter vows to throw both him and his beer flyers out of town. Can Sam help Daisy regain her confidence and break through the barriers that guard her heart?

Return of the Prodigal Daughter by Marguerite Arotin

Tragedy brings supermodel Sherrie Porter home to Wayback, but she wants to avoid her ex, Jake Serranno. Jake thought he did the right thing by leaving Sherrie in California, but neither can deny the old flames. Can they rekindle old passions or will pride keep them apart?

Blackest Heart by Amber Leigh Williams

Actress Stella Ridge comes home to Texas to heal. The last place she expects to find solace is in the arms of Wayback's silent cowboy, Judd Black. (1st Place More Than Magic Novella)

Blackest Heart is Book I in the Wayback Ridge trilogy, featuring sexy, silent cowboy Judd Black. Book II and III are also on sale for 20% off at Digi Books Cafe. Take advantage of these limited time offers now!

Read a fun interview with the Wayback Ridges here! Learn more about the trilogy at Joyfully Reviewed!

THE WAY BACK HOME 40% discount for July!

Now is the time to purchase The Way Back Home if you haven't already! This Wayback, Texas anthology featuring novellas from the The Wild Rose Press fan-favorite series - Delighting Miss Daisy by Abbey MacInnis, Return of the Prodigal Daughter by Marguerite Arotin, and Blackest Heart by Amber Leigh Williams - available only in paperback is 40% off through the month of July at TWRP!

Blackest Heart, the final novella in The Way Back Home anthology and the first story in the Wayback Ridge trilogy, placed 1st in the 2009 More Than Magic Contest and stars sexy, silent cowboy Judd Black. Here's what people are saying about Judd and Blackest Heart...

This story is absolute perfection! From the beautiful setting to the well thought out plot to one of the sexiest heroes I've had the pleasure to read in a long time. I loved everything about this story. My only complaint is that it was too short...I wanted it to go on and on! And I'll never be able to hear that silly phrase "I tapped that" without laughing myself sick. Sexy, funny, and wonderfully heartwarming, Blackest Heart is a definite keeper. And the best part? There's two more stories in this incredible series featuring Stella's yummy brothers!!
- Donna Marie Rogers, Author of Meant To Be and Golden Opportunity

I'm not a great Western/ cowboy fan myself but this story went a long way towards converting me. Ms Williams has a good writing style; polished and confident, and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future. Definitely recommended.
—Writers & Readers of Distinctive Fiction

In this touching contemporary story, when a young actress returns home following a car accident that has left her scarred she finds healing and love in the arms of a quiet cowboy… Blackest Heart is a wonderful story with characters that will touch the heart and I for one am glad I got the chance to read it.
—Long and Short Reviews

The tensions and conflicts with others made the couple seem even more real. The sensuality was super charged and dynamic. I could not put this book down. It was mesmerizing to read. I truly enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to everyone.
—The Romance Studio

Stella Ridge discovers that home sweet home and the arms of a strong, quiet cowboy are just what she needs to get her life and heart going again in Amber Leigh Williams's fantastic Wayback tale- Blackest Heart. With a wonderful cast of supporting characters, including Stella's adorable brothers, Stella and Judd will warm your heart and make you believe in the wonder of sweet homecomings.

—Marguerite Arotin, author of One Enchanted Summer and Return of the Prodigal Daughter

Purchase The Way Back Home and enjoy three hot cowboys in one book for 40% off before August 1st or buy Blackest Heart for just $3.00 at The Wild Rose Press. Book II, Bluest Heart, in the Wayback Ridge trilogy is available now for $3.75 and Book III, Bet It On My Heart, is on sale for $4.00 at The Wild Rose Press!

To read a fun character interview featuring Judd and heros from Book II and III, click here!

Book Dive #3: BLACKEST HEART

Continuing the countdown to Bet It On My Heart's launch, here's a dive into the first book in the Wayback Ridge trilogy...

Title: Blackest Heart

Genre: Contemporary Western Romance

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Release Date: November 2008

Available in: Ebook and paperback anthology The Way Back Home

Joining the Rodeo: Those who were here at Cozy in January know that Blackest Heart is a part of the multi-authored continuation series from The Wild Rose Press called Wayback, TX, "Where A Cowboy Falls In Love Every Eight Seconds." The three novellas in The Way Back Home anthology are all Wayback stories. None of the series has to be read in order, but Blackest Heart is the beginning of the Ridge family saga. The heroine, Stella, is mentioned briefly in Marguerite Arotin's Return of the Prodigal Daughter, a tie-in to Abbey MacInnis' Delighting Miss Daisy (both of which are also published in TWBH). Wayback stories are all novella-length set in the pre-conceived town of Wayback loosely tied to previous published stories in the series (meaning the occassional cameo from early characters), a rodeo theme, and a spunky heroine! Learn more here from editor Spencer Glenn.

Original Title: The first draft of BH was tentatively titled "Man on the Side", based on the John Mayer cover of Stevie Ray Vaughn's "Lenny" (found on the Any Given Tuesday album). After a conversation with my CP, though, I decided to play on the hero's last name, Black.

Cover Artist: This was the first of many amazing Tamra Westberry covers, the go-to designer for the Wayback, TX Series.

Awards: 1st Place Novella in the 2009 More Than Magic Contest

__________________________

Hero Name: Judd Black

Hero Occupation: Ranch hand at Ridge Range and champion bull rider

Hero Description:

He only stared at her, his eyes inscrutable under the brim of his black Stetson. Again his physical appeal struck her. The night before, she’d only had a moment up close and very personal with him. The last time she’d seen him, he still hadn’t filled out his long legs or arms though he’d towered far over both the Ridge brothers. She remembered how his skin had stretched taut over the broad bones of his face, giving him a haunted look.
He’d certainly grown into them, limbs and facial features. His jaw flared out from his lengthy chin. The points of his cheekbones were still prominent but muscle had grown over the rest, filling out the rest of his face. His eyes, as she remembered, were narrow and mystifying. Whenever he’d looked at her, she’d been struck by all the different hues of brown, ranging from dark chocolate to golden yellow with specks of deep green splattered here and there.

Hero's Stunt Double: There isn't anyone who could portray Judd, but I'd love to hear what readers would say. Who do you think could double as this silent cowboy?

Hero's Greatest Strength: Ever wish a guy could be a better listener. Look no further! He's also quick on his feet and knows how to treat a woman if he cares enough to invite her back to his place!

Hero's Greatest Weakness: His dark past is a constant cloud yet he isn't willing to deal with the emotional backlash.

Hero's Astrological Sign: Taurus (This sign is: Practical and reliable... Place a very high value on stability and security... very faithful and patient, but when this sign does become angry, it can easily transform into an infuriated bull! A tendency to be conservative... Can be extremely stubborn... although Bulls can be extremely stubborn, it’s that incredible determination that helps them to achieve their goals... Their kind heart, stable temperament, and constant devotion will always make its relationships very fruitful.)

____________________

Heroine Name: Stella Ridge

Heroine Occupation: Former A-list actress. Becomes a ranch hand at her father's cattle spread, Ridge Range

Heroine Description:

The pale face shadowed by the ball cap was a woman’s. As he stared into the familiar, muted green eyes and realization washed through him, his hand almost slipped on the rail again. His lungs seized, halting his panting breaths. He’d seen her many times over the past fifteen years but only in movie theaters and on television.
God. She was back. Big as life. In the flesh. His mouth went dry when her lips turned up in a soft smile. "Hey, Judd," she said in the voice that had made her famous.
His eyes found the thin, pale scar by her mouth. It’d faded to pink since the highly-reported accident and subsequent emergency surgery. There was another scar by her eye, barely noticeable but there marking her perfect face all the same.

Heroine's Stunt Double: Charlize Theron (more details on Cowboy Lovin' Day 4)

Heroine's Greatest Strength: Stella knows what she wants and she's not afraid to go after it. In BH, she wants some silent cowboy. And, boy, does she get it! She also wants to heal and to find peace again at her family's ranch.

Heroine's Greatest Weakness: She's quick to anger, which is entertaining for the rest of us but usually lands her in trouble.

Heroine's Astrological Sign: Cancer (This sign is: a very conservative and home-loving nature... Very protective over loved ones... They can be both shy and outgoing. They are very strong-willed and they like to get everything done in their own way. Cancerians need to learn to balance their emotions, because they tend to be overly sensitive and moody.)

______________________

What Sets This Book Apart: Two words: silent cowboy!

Favorite Scene: Stella and her oldest brother, Keefe, get into a fight over her budding relationship with Judd who Keefe doesn't like. At all. The outcome is classic Stella, one of those moments that make women readers go "Whoop!"

Blurb:

America's Sweetheart, Stella Ridge has been away from Wayback for fifteen years paving her way to the top of the acting business. When a car accident leaves her physically and emotionally scarred, the only place she wants to go is home to Texas and her family's ranch.

The changes that have taken place since her departure are enough to rock her world again. She uncovers a buried tragedy, struggles with the penetrating stares and questions from townsfolk, and comes up against an intriguing and unexpected spark with the silent cowboy and champion bull rider, Judd Black. Their wounded souls draw them together and Stella begins to realize that only in him can she find the solace she sought by leaving the bright lights of Hollywood.

What People Are Saying:

"Super-charged and dynamic. I could not put this book down. It was mesmerizing to read. I truly enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to everyone."

- The Romance Studio

“…touching, contemporary story… a very touching relationship. I was especially drawn to Judd whose silence and actions spoke volumes. I felt that Judd’s quiet nature was a brilliant choice by the author as it made him even more intriguing and demonstrated the author’s ability to convey emotion and the story through actions and other characters. Blackest Heart is a wonderful story with characters that will touch the heart and I for one am glad I got the chance to read it."

- Long & Short Reviews

“Ms Williams has a good writing style; polished and confident, and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future. Definitely recommended.”

- Writers & Readers of Distinctive Fiction

What People Are Saying About BLUEST HEART

So Cowboy Lovin' over, but I've got fun planned for the coming weeks. We've already started to countdown to Bet It On My Heart's March 3rd release. A book video is in the works so be on the lookout for that. Plus, the week of Valentine's Day I will be celebrating at fellow Wayback author, Autumn Jordon's site, AJ's Notes, with Casey and Josie from Bluest Heart. As soon as the story goes live, I'll let everyone here at The Cozy Page know!

While on the subject of Bluest Heart, I received my first reviews for Bluest Heart. Here's what people are saying about Casey and Josie's love story:

A+ on Bluest Heart. Love stories where the "bad girl" isn't 1/2 as bad as narrow-minded townfolk. Can't wait for Keefe's story!
~ Author Crystal-Rain Love

Bluest Heart is a romance that inspires feel-good tingles in all the right places. Author Amber Leigh Williams has created a story with characters readers are bound to adore and remember. What a fantastic story! Ms. Williams managed to snare my heart and wretch every bit of emotion possible from it. tightly written and hits the emotions like a freight train. Cowboy fans will love Bluest Heart, and if they are anything like me, will make a direct trip to The Wild Rose Press to purchase the preceding story, Blackest Heart. Don’t miss out on this one, folks. You get romance, heartache, and a whole lot of making up for lost time.
- Fern (Long & Short Reviews)

Get your copy of the Blues today! Catch up on the 5-star, award-winning prequel, Blackest Heart, at The Wild Rose Press. If you prefer paperbacks for the shelf, Blackest Heart is featured in The Way Back Home anthology! Plus, the final book in the Wayback Ridge saga - Bet It On My Heart - is coming your way on March 3, 2010! If you didn't catch the exclusive first look last week, you can find it here on The Cozy Page!

And don't forget that the polls are now open for Best Book of 2009! Vote for Forever Amore!

Cowboy Lovin' Day 16: More from BLUEST HEART

Thank you to everyone who has made the launch of my second western romance, Bluest Heart, so special! I just received the launch date for the third book in the Wayback Ridge trilogy today - but you'll have to wait until later in the month to find out when and to get the first insider's look. Today I'm giving everyone here at Cowboy Lovin' another look at Bluest Heart...

"You remember that night behind the stable?"

She let out a small, throaty laugh. "Seems like forever ago, but yeah. Your hair was a lot longer then."

"Yours, too." He could remember it curtaining their faces, the tips of silky, red curls tickling his cheeks. Tracing the line of pearly buttons from the hem of her midnight blue blouse to the open neck-line, he touched the teardrop-shaped pearl on the thin gold chain around her neck which reminded him of the moon that night. "You were my first."

She lifted her gaze to his. Tenderness warred with uncertainty in the whiskey-colored depths. "Me, too."

His heart pattered at the memory. "I always liked that about us."

She nodded, frowning. "I was crazy about you."

The tip of his thumb traced the bottom edge of her lip. "So why didn’t it last?"

She looked beyond him, remembering. "Because however much I wanted to be with you, I knew I would be leaving the first chance I got. I wasn’t go-ing to let anything or anyone stand in my way."

"You figured I would?"

"Casey, we were so young," she told him. "Who knows what you or I would’ve done?"

He paused, running a hand over her hair. "Just for the record," he murmured, lips brushing her cheek, "I would’ve let you go."

She sighed, reaching up to clutch his upper arm. The muscle under her hand and his sleeve warmed. "Why hasn’t anyone snatched you up yet?"

"Because you’re the only one I ever wanted, Josie," he told her, cupping her chin in his hand to look her in the eyes as he said it. "The only one."

BLUEST HEART © Amber Leigh Williams

If you wanna read more, you can purchase Bluest Heart for just $3.75 at The Wild Rose Press! Though the books don't necessarily have to be read in order, you can purchase the first book in the Wayback Ridge trilogy, award-winning Blackest Heart, for $3.oo at TWRP or in the paperback anthology The Way Back Home. And remember to stay tuned for an exclusive first look at the third book in the Wayback Ridge trilogy, Keefe's story, later this month! And, oh heck, I'll leave you with a peek into Blackest Heart, too - and this one's a hottie :)

He needed a drink.

Pulling a glass down from the cabinet, he dropped a few chunks of ice into it then found the bottle of whiskey he kept in the liquor cabinet. The door shut behind him, but he didn’t look up.

Safer not to look at her while he was working to tether the humming beast in his blood.

Her heels clacked across the wood floor. He smelled her a moment before she propped a hip against the counter next to him. He sipped his whiskey, careful not to look at her.

Stella reached for the whiskey bottle. Before he could get her a glass, she tipped it up to her mouth and drank it straight, glowing green eyes on his. He waited until she set the bottle down. When she raised her hand to wipe her mouth, he latched onto it, holding it away. Before he could tell himself it was crazy, before he could convince himself it wasn’t a smart move, his mouth was on hers, devouring her.

Her taste was devastating. Whiskey and champagne and the underlying thrill of Stella. He couldn’t believe he was doing it. Arm wrapped around her waist, he pulled her hard against him. His tongue scraped over hers, hands roaming over her long, slim back. A hum sounded deep in her throat. The boil in his loins turned to fire. The flames ignited his blood, turning reason to ash. He had only one clear thought.

She was his. Stella Ridge was his.

She melted into the kiss, letting it come like she’d expected it, wanted it, waited for it. He pushed her back against the counter, pressing his body against hers. Fingers dived into the taut knot on the back of her head, prying it apart until her hair spilled into his palm, free. Her arms wound around his neck, bringing him close, though he couldn’t get any closer. There wasn’t room for breath between them. His heart raged against hers, pumping like a mad machine.

He thought of taking her here in the kitchen. On the bar. On the floor. The closest flat surface.

He opened his eyes to see hers. Her dreamy green irises were hooded, half-closed. Looking into their languid depths, he knew it couldn’t be that way. It would behot. It would be fast. But he’d be damned if it was going to be nothing but a thoughtless romp on his kitchen counter.

BLACKEST HEART (c) Amber Leigh Williams

P.S. I should mention that there's still time to win a Victoria's Secret Gift Card from Marguerite Arotin below....

Cowboy Lovin' Day 15: Marguerite Arotin

It's the second day of The Way Back Home anthology's special event. Today we have guest author of the Wayback series title Return of the Prodigal Daughter, the 2nd story featured in The Way Back Home. Marguerite Arotin goes in-depth with her cowboy hero, Jake Serrano, just for us here at The Cozy Page...

When my friend and fellow author Abbey MacInnis told me all about our publisher’s Wayback series and the idea she had about us writing stories with sister heroines, I think I knew automatically that I wanted my hero to be a rodeo clown. That is my ultimate idea of bravery and not to mention, sexiness. I mean who wouldn’t totally crush on a cowboy who puts himself in the line of fire to protect other cowboys? I thought it would be fun to interview my hero for the fictional Texas town’s newspaper. Of course, I interviewed him close to the start of my story- Return of the Prodigal Daughter, because I wanted to get his thoughts on how he felt when the love of his life, Sherrie Serrano, came home to Wayback after her Malibu home went up in smoke.

Jake’s Interview for The Wayback Journal

Howdy all, today I had the privilege of interviewing Jake Serrano, also known to the townsfolk of Wayback as our favorite Rodeo Clown, Colt. Now he might have been a little hush-hush when it came to his personal life and a certain blonde super-model who came back into his life and turned his life upside down, but he was willing share his love of the rodeo and some of his tricks for wowing the crowd while still protecting our participating cowboys.

Marguerite: The first thing I wanted to ask is why do you work as rodeo clown? Why do you feel it’s necessary to risk your life like that?

Jake: It’s not just the adrenaline rush. I genuinely like doing my part in the rodeo, staring down a bull and luring him away from a cowboy who’s down. I guess it all comes down to how I raised. My Pa and grandma told me you gotta use your God-given talents to help others’ in this world. I was played defense on the football team in high school because I was fast and I liked protecting the other players on the team. When I left for Hollywood after graduation, I went right to work as a stuntman to keep the actors out of harm’s way. Guess I that was my first real big dream when I was a kid, because I used to watch “The Fall Guy” and I wanted to be just like Colt, always saving the day.

Marguerite: You just brought up Hollywood. I understand the young lady you left town has returned to Wayback. How does that make you feel?

Jake: I don’t want to talk about Sherrie right now Mam’. We parted ways and oh … (He rubs the back of his neck as his cheeks turn scarlet) Maybe I was an idiot for walking on out her and I’ve apologized for that. Now, no more talking about my personal life. I thought you wanted to know about the rodeo and my job.

Marguerite: Sorry. Okay, I guess I can understand how the issue of Sherrie is touchy for you. So tell me more about how you became a rodeo clown?

Jake: I ran into an old friend when I came back home who’d been clowning on the rodeo circuit for a few years. I knew I could help out at my family’s property, Sombrero Farms, and I did have a part-time night job working as a bouncer for Maizie at the Cue Ball Pool Hall and Laundromat, but I wanted to do something a little bit more … well … exciting. So I followed my friend back to a clown training camp in Denver and I trained there for a few months, working the occasional small 4-H rodeo and one large semi-regional championship. When I thought I was ready to come home and work Wayback’s rodeo, they hired me on the spot and I’ve been working for the local rodeo ever since. (He smiles and reveals his dimples, which I’m sure always charms the local cow girls) I love it. May through November is my favorite time of year.

Marguerite: I also understand you help out at the farm from time to time when you’re grandmother has school kids at her restaurant. Is this correct?

Jake: You betcha. I make balloon animals, do a little juggling, or some of the stunts I do to entertain the crowd during the rodeo intermissions.

Marguerite: So you love kids, you’re a very adorable daredevil, I can’t imagine why any cow girl hasn’t snatched you up yet. Is there a special lady in your life?

Jake: There will only be one special lady in my life and I’m working to try and make up with her now.

Marguerite: Could that be Sherrie?

Jake: No comment.

I thanked Jake for the interview and hoped he could patch things up with Sherrie. After all, even a brave rodeo clown needs a strong woman behind him.

An excerpt from Return of the Prodigal Daughter available in e-book and in the print Anthology- The Way Back Home from http://www.thewildrosepress.com

Jake stood alone with Sherrie. The bank was closed for the night. Downtown Wayback was still and quiet. The first tones of a fiery sunset colored the horizon and he supposed most people were settling into their homes for dinner. He should have left after depositing his paycheck at the bank ATM. He should be at home now too, relaxing on the couch with a cold beer and a cold slice of pizza. Instead, he stared into that soft blue gaze he missed so much, wanting to find the right words to say Sherrie.
“I’m sorry,” he blurted out, figuring that would be a good start. “I’m sorry about the way I left. I’m sorry for ... hell a lot of things.”
Sherrie shrugged and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “Sorry’s a good start. Suppose I can forgive you.”
“Why? Why’d you come back? We both know you belong in California. Your career was taking off. You wanted that big house on the beach.”
She lowered her gaze to the sidewalk and kicked the front wheel of her SUV. “I don’t have a career no more. I had the big house on the beach and lost it. God, I don’t know if I should tell you any more. I don’t know if I could trust you after—”
“After what? I told you I was sorry.” He placed his hand on her shoulder. “Sherrie, it’s me, the man you used to confide all your hopes and dreams in. I never told anyone about how were so nervous during your first fashion show that you nearly tripped on the runway. You can trust me, darling.”
Sighing, she removed her left hand from her jeans pocket and Jake noticed the black leather glove covering it. She removed the glove, revealing a swollen, red hand.
“Jesus, what happened?”
“A wildfire took my house, scarred my hand and arm, ruined any chance of strutting my stuff on the runway again, or sitting pretty for the camera. All I have left is my family. So, I came home.”
“Sherrie ... I ... Heck, I’m sorry.”
“Don’t be. I don’t need your sympathy. You didn’t start the fire. I was stupid enough to try to grab my family photos and now I’m paying the price.” She raised her head to meet his gaze. “Your mama dropped by to see me while I was in the hospital.”
“Oh.” Jake hadn’t seen his mama in three years. Pa told him when she ran out that trying to hold on to Mama was like trying to catch a shooting star, which is exactly how he felt about Sherrie too. He knew she was in Wayback now, but he was sure his shooting star would fly off to the next galaxy as soon as she got back on her feet again. “How is she? I bet by now she probably went and got herself hitched again.”
She nodded. “Sure did. Met her latest husband. His name’s Bob. Seems like a nice ‘nough fellow.”
Jake rolled his eyes. “Yeah and so were the last nine stepfathers. I’ll be surprised if this marriage sticks.”
“I think it just might. I still believe in happy endings, Jake. I wish you did too. I should get on home. Max is waiting on me.”
He didn’t know quite why, but he grabbed her arm before she could slip into her Escape, pulled her close to him, so close that her soft curves pressed against him, close enough that he could smell the lavender scent of her perfume. Everything about Sherrie positively intoxicated him, made him dizzy, and weak, but it wouldn’t be enough until he tasted her lips and he did. He crushed his lips into hers.
To his amazement, she didn’t fight him, didn’t even try to break free. She relaxed into his embrace and parted her lips. He delved his tongue inside, tasting every corner of her spearmint mouth. She must still be a gum chewer. God, this feels so perfect having her in my arms again, even if she isn’t mine to hold.
Finally, she broke free, leaving him breathless, and with a raging hard on. If he had his way, he would pick Sherrie up and carry her back to his bed, but he was certain Max would have something to say about that. Max Porter was a big man and he made it clear when Jake returned to Wayback that he was to stay away from the youngest Porter girl ... forever.
Sherrie suddenly slapped the side of his cheek so hard that it stung. “That’s for taking advantage of me.”
He gave her a half-grin. “You didn’t seem to mind it so much when I was kissing you.”
“You ... Oh ... Damn it, Jake!”
He loved the way her cheeks turned a bright crimson. Watching her open the door to her SUV, he decided that he might not be able to hold his shooting star forever, but he’d enjoy the way she shined for as long as she stayed in Wayback.

Marguerite has kindly offered, in honor of heroine Sherrie's modeling profession, to giveaway a $25 Victoria's Secret Gift Card to one lucky commenter! To enter, comment to this post before midnight EST January 19th. Winner will be announced the following Tuesday. Chances of winning depend on the number of entries. You must be 18 years or older to enter!

And, of course, be sure to get your copy of Return of the Prodigal Daughter at The Wild Rose Press or in the Wayback anthology The Way Back Home!

Cowboy Lovin' Day 14: Abbey MacInnis

This week is really special because it's packed with authors from the Wayback, TX series. Today I introduce a special two-day event. I had the privelege of being included in the Wayback anthology The Way Back Home with two other talented authors from the series. Today and tomorrow these ladies each visit The Cozy Page and celebrate Cowboy Lovin'. Today's guest is Delighting Miss Daisy author Abbey MacInnis!

When Sam Howard, CEO of Sam’s Smooth Sliding Ale, arrives in Wayback to advertise his product for the rodeo, bakery entrepreneur Daisy Porter goes on a crusade to tear down every poster in town. Can Daisy look past the businessman to the compassionate man underneath, or has the lock to her heart finally rusted shut? Sam is a patient man, who doesn’t force his way through the walls she’s placed up to guard her heart. With the threat of someone from her past shadowing her, can Daisy reclaim her self-confidence and strength to find happiness with Sam?





Excerpt:

Sam stood, vacating his stool. He pushed his way toward the back of the line to observe the controlled chaos.

When he’d spoken to the mayor of Wayback, Sam hadn’t received any objections to circulating his flyers. Beer was a big seller at the rodeo, which in turn, brought in a nice profit for the town.

Yesterday, Sam had hired a few kids from a local junior college to post his flyers about town.

Apparently they’d gone a little crazy, hanging them everywhere without asking permission from the store owners. Sam sighed inwardly. One thing he didn’t need was a bunch of angry proprietors. So here he was apologizing to Delia for the mix up. It looked like he’d be spending the rest of the day apologizing to annoyed townspeople.

After the stream of customers slowed to a trickle, Sam stepped up to the counter.

Delia let out a heavy sigh as she closed the cash register. “Back for more?”

“I never left.” Sam leaned a hip against the counter and crossed his ankles. The scent of vanilla drifted across the close space to tease his senses.

“Oh, is there something else you’d like then, something else I can get you?”

“No, the muffin and fritter did the trick. But...” He paused and removed a flyer from his briefcase. “I noticed you removed the flyer from your door.”

Sam set it on the counter between them. Delia unfolded it, appraised it, and threw it down after reading the bold large print at the bottom.

She pointed an accusing finger at him, then at the advertisement which she’d torn in half. “So, this is yours. Let me guess; you’re hoping I’ll post this in my window and show it off to my clientele.”

She continued before he could apologize. “First off,” Daisy folded her arms across her chest.

Leaning over the counter she stared him directly in the eye. “You didn’t ask me if you could post that.” She jabbed at the torn flyer. “On my window, or anywhere else in this bakery. So yes, I did destroy it, and this one, because I don’t want to advertise alcohol at my place of business.” She swiped the two pieces of paper into the trash can at her side.

“Actually no, Daisy. I came to apologize.”

“I’m Daisy to my friends, but it’s Miss Porter to you.” She bit out as the air sparked between them.

“Um, right, okay. I’m sorry, Miss Porter.”

He ran a hand over his stubble-shadowed jaw. “I’m going about this all wrong. I’m going to be spending the rest of the day apologizing to business owners for this mess. When I arrived in Wayback about a week ago to do some advertising at the rodeo, I decided to hire a group of college kids to tape up my flyers around town.” He sent her a disarming, charming smile as he explained. “Yesterday, they kind of let things get a bit out of hand.”

“Only a bit out of hand?” She asked, raising a brow.

“Um, yes, well, like I said, things got a little out of control. It was very rude of them to not ask before taping the flyer to your door, but when I spoke to the mayor, she said that it wouldn’t be a problem, that most entrepreneurs wouldn’t mind.”

“Well, I’m a small minority of those who don’t take too kindly to finding a beer advertisement stuck to their door for anyone to see. I don’t care what the mayor told you. She’s only concerned with the town, not my business. Of course, she’d say we wouldn’t mind. You’re going to bring in money for her town.”

Daisy had nothing against Gretchen Fremont, the mayor, but Gretchen was a politician through and through. She’d do whatever she thought needed to be done to make Wayback the most popular rodeo town in the country

She glared. “There are plenty of other places around town to do your advertising. I don’t see how not having a window or two not displaying your smooth-sliding ale will hurt your sales.” She contemptuously eyed his designer outfit and briefcase. “You appear to be doing just fine as it is.”

A flicker of annoyance showed in his eyes before the coolness returned. ”Yes, ma’am. You’re absolutely right. It won’t make a difference in my sales. You have a great business here, clean,
G-rated. Your customers, especially the kids, appear to love this place. Once again, I’m sorry for what happened. I’m going to circulate my flyers myself from now on just to ensure this doesn’t happen again.”

Daisy tapped her foot. She’d like to give him a hard kick in the butt . Who the hell did this guy think he was oozing such ease and confidence?

Thank you, Abbey, for sharing the excerpt and book trailer for Delighting Miss Daisy today! Be sure to check out Delighting Miss Daisy at The Wild Rose Press and the western romance anthology The Way Back Home! And tomorrow stick around because the third lady behind TWBH brings some real fun to Cozy along with another awesome giveaway!

Tuesday Show & Tell

The next holiday-themed post will go up Thursday morning. Until then, I wanted to do a little round of show and tell. This past weekend, I went to my RWA chapter's Christmas party at author Cynthia Eden's house. I had an absolute blast and the hub found out not all my friends are imaginary. While we were enjoying the festivities, I got a pleasant surprise when President Amanda Collins presented a beautiful "First Book Award" to me. I had to share! The beautiful wooden case opens like a book to reveal an engraving complete with pen name, book title, and date of publication on the left and a clock on the right. I just wanted to give a shout-out to GCC and say thank you once again from the bottom of my heart! My coffee table looks a step up with this on top!


The Roses of Prose holiday tote giveaway is halfway over. Readers, be sure to comment at TRoP everyday to be entered to win. If you comment more than once, there's more chances to win. This week we're discussing the alpha hero! I brought some eye candy to Monday's post and listed my three all-time favorites. This weekend we're having another exciting guest spotlight with Lois Winston who will be giving away a copy of her award-winning novel, Talk Gertie to Me! Be there for the fun on Saturday!


And speaking of the TRoP holiday giveaway, I've mentioned that I'm giving away an autographed copy of The Way Back Home anthology featuring 1st Place More Than Magic Novella Blackest Heart as well as a beautiful crystal rose with the tote. This week, I got to hold it in my hands! I did get to see this title in paperback once before - at the October Romance Readers Luncheon in Baton Rouge where I signed copies of it and Forever Amore - but I didn't have time to admire it as I wanted to. When it arrived in the mail, I was mighty tempted to stick it in a drawer for myself. It will still be a prize in the holiday giveaway, but I'm entitled to some snuggle time first ;) Here's a looksie:


I'm gearing up for January's Cowboy Lovin' event to celebrate Bluest Heart's release. Eighteen authors have signed up so far to bring their love of cowboys, eye candy, and prizes here to The Cozy Page! More details coming soon, of course. Until then, my fabulous western editor, Spencer Glenn (who will also be making an appearance here at Cozy in January) and I have been working on edits for the last book in my western romance trilogy, Bet It On My Heart. After one round, I received the first galleys today. Last night, cover artist Tamra Westberry also sent me the gorgeous cover. As much as I want to reveal it, too, I'm going to wait until January to do that! Stay tuned!

Holiday Reads I Can't Wait To Nibble

When the holidays roll around, though I know Santa's probably bringing me a sacks of long-awaited titles, my nose tends to jerk me in the direction of my local bookstore. Why this is? Well, I blame it on holidays releases. Following is a list of the romances I can't wait to nibble this holiday season!

1. Winter Kiss by Deborah Cooke

A novel in Cooke's Dragonfire series. "One kiss can melt the coldest heart." I'm cold so give me some lip gloss and a winter's kiss from the crazy dude walking around in the blizzard with his shirt open. We could both use the extra heat...

2. Mistletoe Rules by Stacey Joy Netzel
What!? You missed Dragonfly Dreams? Shame on you. Well, this year Stacey delivers the Christmas goods again with three mistletoe-themed stories in one. As far as contemporary reads go, this one's first on my list this Christmas...

3. A Christmas Ball by Jennifer Ashley, Emily Bryan, & Alissa Johnson

PB & J. Elizabeth & Darcy. Turner & Hooch. Christmas & Recency Romance. All things that go oh-so well together. For my Regency fix this season, I'm going with this baby from Dorchester. The last great Regency anthology I read was The Diamonds of Welbourne Manor from Harlequin. I think this one will put a smile on my face, too...

4. It Happened One Night by Lisa Dale

A heart-warming fix to go with my hot cocoa and chestnuts. This author's new for me. She hooked me with the book trailer, which made it an instant add to my Shelfari wish list. Something tells me I'm going to have to break out the tissue for this puppy...

5. A Highlander Christmas by Dawn Halliday, Cindy Miles, & Sophie Renwick

Ho ho...hubba! The holidays would not be complete without my plaid and the quintessential alpha, now would it? Therefore, I'm spending Christmas with my family, dogs, and my friend Mr. Mullet here. How much would I have to pay to get my hubby to wear a getup like that? I think the sword would cheer him up...

6. A Cowboy Christmas by Janette Kenny

Now what kind of western romance author would I be if I didn't celebrate the joy of the season with another open-shirted friend - the one in the Stetson. Snowy ranch. Fire blazing. How did those shirt buttons get on the floor? Hmmm. (I'm noticing a trend. Have we moved on from cropping hero's faces? Now every hero must be posing open-shirted in a blizzard. Me likey...)

7. Hot for the Holidays by Lora Leigh, Angela Knight, Anya Bast, & Allyson James

For those in the romance world, you'd have to be deaf, blind, and dumb not to have heard of Lora Leigh's new anthology. The candy cane in question made this an inpulse buy for droves of readers - including moi. I didn't even read the blurb. I just bought the darn thing. Something tells me Hot for the Holidays is as...well, yum as what Berkley Jove's art department unleashed on our pocketbooks...

8. Deep Kiss of Winter by Kresley Cole & Gena Showalter

Speaking of buzz, here's yet another anthology that set the hive buzzin this season. An how often is it that we see hardcover anthologies? This book will make a nice addition to my keeper shelf since. Seeing as it is in the NYT Bestsellers' Top 20, you don't have to be a Cole or Showalter groupie to appreciate it...

9. The Lost by J.D. Robb, Patricia Gaffney, Mary Blayney, & Ruth Ryan Langan

Haha - you knew I was going to go there! I have be spending Christmas with highlanders, cowboys, and assorted other sculpted paranormal beings. But New Years is for one hero and one hero alone: Roarke. Yeah, that's all I have to say...

As you can see, there no #10. This is where you come in. Readers, sound off: what other holiday read should romance readers be sure to check out this season?

I should mention that I'm giving away a paperback with The Roses of Prose holiday contest. Win a free tote full of goodies like The Way Back Home. Yep, that's three cowboys in one, folks - a very Merry Christmas indeed! Visit TRoP to see how to enter...

Readers Luncheon Photos

As many of you know, I traveled with author Cynthia Eden to Baton Rouge on Oct 3rd to attend the HeartLa's Annual Romance Readers Luncheon as a guest author. I enjoyed what speakers Kelley St. John and Cynthia had to say about reading romance and the importance of connecting with readers and was so glad I got to share the event with my mother who drove all the way from Alabama to be my luncheon buddy :) I met several other authors, signed copies of Forever Amore and The Way Back Home, and most importantly talked to readers! Thought I'd share some photos from the event. Enjoy!

At my table at Drusilla Seafood. I enjoyed chatting with the enthusiastic ladies at my table. The pasta was divine!

Signing books - Maya Banks, me, Chere Coen, and Allison Kent. So glad I got to share the table with such distinguished ladies!

I must thank my mom for helping me look so lady- and business-like for this occassion. Where would I be without her? :)

Ante Up, Western Lovers!

I've known this for several weeks, but wanted it to be official before I posted it here. If you loved 1st place More Than Magic novella Blackest Heart, you'll be as happy as I am to know that the third story in my Wayback trilogy is contracted with The Wild Rose Press's Yellow Rose (contemporary western) line! The current working title is Bet It On My Heart. It will follow the launch of the 2nd book in the trilogy, Bluest Heart (January 6). Release date and cover are still forthcoming, but I can tell you a little bit about Bet It On My Heart. The trilogy is about the Ridge family, starting with Stella Ridge in Blackest Heart with brother Casey Ridge following in Bluest Heart and now - squeee! - eldest brother Keefe Ridge in Bet It On My Heart! Here's a little exclusive first-look at Bet It On My Heart:

ANTE UP!

Keefe Ridge's bronc-busting days are nearly over and he’s slowly making his dream business a reality. Even so, Wayback's wildest cowboy doesn't see any reason to settle down. He is willing to bet that marriage isn't in the cards for him—at all.

Talent agent Calli Morlani is in Wayback on a mission: to bring Stella Ridge back to Hollywood . Stella refuses, daring Calli to see what Wayback has to offer. Of course, the local color includes Stella's devastatingly charming brother and soon Calli finds herself in bed with him—in more ways than one.

Will it take a tough city girl to make the ultimate playboy fall long and hard? Or will Keefe give Calli a reason to stay? Place your bet!

For those who still don't have a copy of Blackest Heart, the ebook is available from The Wild Rose Press for $3.oo. You can also purchase it in paperback from The Wild Rose Press's new Print Store in The Way Back Home anthology. You can also find it at Amazon and B&N.com!

Since the long-awaited Bluest Heart is launching in January, I'm honoring western romance all January long here at The Cozy Page with the Cowboy Lovin' Event. Every day there'll be something new: guest authors, eye candy, round robins, covers, excerpts, book trailers, and more - all cowboy-flavored! Everything you love about cowboy heroes in one hot party!

I am now booking guest authors for Cowboy Lovin'. This is first-come, first-serve and I am booking Wayback authors only first. If there are still spaces available, I will book Yellow Rose authors and others as well. If you are a Wayback author (published or contracted with the series) and you would like to be a part of Cowboy Lovin', please email me at amber@amberleighwilliams.com.