Tag: cookbook

  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles by Chrissy Hartmann – August 2026 Book Fairs, Book Events, Book Publishing, Oh my!

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    August 2026

    By Chrissy Hartmann

    Howdy, All!

    Well, pull up a chair, grab yourself a cup of coffee, and settle in, because there’s been plenty happening around this little corner of the trail!

    First things first—Hayden, affectionately known around here as “Butterscotch,” is settling in just fine.

    18EF7D58-D60D-4B40-A743-076E93D85854

    When he’s in harness, he’s all business. But take that harness off and you’ve got yourself ALL PUPPY! He loves carrying his stuffed bone around, and—believe it or not—he has apparently decided that a stuffed coffee cup makes a fine puppy toy, too.

    Chris, Butterscotch, and volunteer Bob on the Braille trail

    We took a little venture at the end of last month to a Braille Trail at Hogback Ridge Park in Sunbury, Ohio, hosted by the American Council of the Blind of Ohio. Butterscotch absolutely loved it! It was a wonderful outing, and we had ourselves a whole heap of fun.

    The book festival season is officially back in full swing, and this cowgirl has plenty of irons in the fire. Not only am I participating in festivals, but I’m also helping with the marketing for three different events, including the BVI Lions Club ACB Ohio Fall Festival. Add in everything I’m doing for the book festivals, and you might say I’ve got my boots firmly planted in the marketing corral!

    And you know what?

    I’m having a blast with it. I even found a new app for my phone that lets me put text overlays on pictures. I’m still learning the ropes, but I’m having fun experimenting with it. And when I get myself into a bit of a digital pickle, there’s always my Eagle Scout to ride in and lend a hand  with photoshop every now and then!

    August 17th was a mighty busy day around here because two new books hit the trail!

    First up is my second short story:

     💕 Life Flight Kisses*

    This is Short Story #2,following Tacking of Hearts. Life Flight Kisses is now available in paperback, digital, and Kindle Unlimited, just like its predecessor.

    And then there was another little celebration…

    🖤 Whiskey Kisses

    My newest novella, Whiskey Kisses, also officially galloped onto the trail on August 17th!

    And let me tell you, Punkin was mighty pleased about the timing.

    Why?

    Because August 17th just happened to be National Black Cat Day!

    I certainly didn’t plan that little bit of magic, but I’ll happily take it. Sometimes the trail has a way of lining things up just right.

    So if you haven’t met Chet, Violet, and that mischievous little black kitten yet, saddle up and come on over to Whiskey for a little cowboy romance, kitten trouble, and plenty of kisses.

    You can find that broody cowboy, stubborn veteran, and ornery black kitten within the pages of  Whiskey Kisses  ! Don’t miss out!

    Now I need a little help from my trail hands.

    I’d love to know what you think about the covers for Life Flight Kisses and Whiskey Kisses. Which one catches your eye first? What do you like about them? I’d love to hear what you think! Want to make sure I’m on the right trail with them. Drop me a reply to this newsletter or send me a message through my website. I always enjoy hearing from readers.

    And here’s some good news for folks who’d like a signed copy of my books.

    You can now purchase autographed copies directly from my website! And because no good cowboy—or cowgirl—should ride away empty-handed, every book comes with some SWAG.

    So if you’re looking for a signed copy for yourself, a gift for a fellow reader, or just want to add a little more cowboy sparkle to your bookshelf, come on over and check it out.

    I’ve got another event coming up this month to help support PAWS and the Wayne County Dog Pound, and I may just try my hand at baking fresh dog biscuits right there at the event.

    Yep.

    Fresh dog biscuits.

    From my cookbook, The Grub Wrangler and Gruff: Dog Biscuit Almanac.

    Now, before anybody gets too excited, I should probably mention that this little baking adventure is still in the “we’ll see how this goes” stage!

    But I did find myself a brand-new toaster oven at a thrift store last month when I went thrifting a while back.

    So maybe the stars are lining up for some fresh-baked puppy treats!

    Treasuring Whiskey’s SalvationIs Almost Ready!

    The book is formatted, and now all that’s left is to make those edits. Got only 22 chapters to edit. That won’t take long, right?

    If everything goes according to plan, there’s a good chance this one could still see publication before the end of this year!

    I’ve also got a great idea brewing for the cover. I just need to get it made.

    And Then There’s Another Story…

    Now here’s where things get downright difficult.

    I’ve got another story brewing. The outline is written. I’ve got my notes ready to go, and there are just a few edits to make before I can really get rolling.

    And this one?

    Well…

    I’m going to try writing a western romantasy!

    Yep. You read that right.

    A little western. A little romance. A little fantasy.

    And, of course, it takes place in Whiskey.

    I am already having way too much fun thinking about this one, and it’s just about killing me not to start writing it right now. But I’ve got to keep myself honest. Treasuring Whiskey’s Salvationneeds to be edited, and these festivals need to get finished first.

    Then?

    It’s time to saddle up and ride into a whole new story.

    I also just got word that I’ve been asked to chat up the Indie Authors for the Buckeye Book Fair!

    I suppose that makes sense. After all, I’m an indie author and I’m the social media assistant for the Buckeye Book Fair marketing team. SO I’m busy thinking up publicity  stuff for a few of the indie authors. At the moment, the director’s got me writing a few articles for the Buckeye Book Fair Bookmark newsletter. I guess they figure I know a thing or two about what indie authors need promoted! I’m looking forward to helping get the word out and giving our wonderful indie authors some well-deserved attention.

    And to top off my day, just got word, I’ve been selected to participate  on a panel  regarding  book marketing for the Canal Town Book Festival. I’m tickled pink over this honor. Yeehaw!

    Well, folks, that’s about all the news from my little corner of the trail for now. There’s writing, editing, book festivals, marketing, dog biscuits, new stories, new books, a puppy with a stuffed bone—and apparently a coffee cup—and somehow I’m having a mighty fine time keeping up with all of it.

    I hope you’ll join me and Butterscotch out on the trail sometime soon.

    And if you can’t make it in person, don’t be a stranger! Send me a reply to this newsletter or drop me a message through my website. I always love hearing from readers.

    Until next time, keep turning those pages, chasing those dreams, and leaving a little room for some cowboy kisses, messy hearts, and small-town sparkle with hope.

    And remember…

    💖 Don’t forget to saddle up for Whiskey Kisses! 💖

    Happy reading, all!

    Chrissy Hartmann

    • Contemporary Western Romance Author

    • Award-Winning Short Story Writer

    • Book Reviewer

    • Blogger

    ChrissyHartmann.com

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles by Chrissy

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    *******

    Don’t miss out on the Whiskey Salvation Series…

    Where you’ll find  cowboy kisses, messy hearts, and small-town sparkle  filled with hope… So kick off your boots, grab a Whiskey, and settle in for some romance … and more!

  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles July 2026 by Chrissy Hartmann

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles July 2026 by Chrissy Hartmann

    Chrissy Hartmann’s newsletter banner on wood background with white and pink daisies with hearts

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    July 2026 Round-Up from Chrissy Hartmann

    🐾 Hayden and Punkin’s Trail Report

    Can you believe summer is already halfway over? Seems like just yesterday I was watching the spring flowers bloom, and now we’re already talking county fairs, festivals, and fall around the bend. Time sure has a way of galloping by.

    This past month has been one wild ride. When I got the telegram—I mean, phone call—from The Seeing Eye saying they had found my new guide dog, I was plum tickled pink! I was headed to New Jersey at the end of June to meet my new partner, but before I could hit the trail, there was a mountain of work to get done.. and a whole lot of cuddling with Punkin to reassure her I would be back in 18 days… and with a new brother for her too. HaHa!

    🐾 Meet Hayden!

    Well, I survived the bumpy airplane ride, but that’s about where “normal” ended.

    My very first solo route at guide dog school froze my back tighter than an old barn door in January. Then Mother Nature decided to show off. During some of the hottest days of the summer—with temperatures climbing well over 100 degrees—the air conditioning quit working.

    Not long after that, an 80-mile-per-hour windstorm rolled through Morristown, knocking out power not only across town but at The Seeing Eye campus itself.

    The school moved everyone to the Hyatt Hotel on July 3rd while crews worked to restore the AC and power. Let’s just say… it wasn’t exactly the luxury cattle drive I’d imagined. And celebrating America’s 250th birthday in a hotel room with nothing to do didn’t rank high on this cowgirl’s list.

    Because training couldn’t continue as planned, our class was shortened. Eventually all of us retrains were sent home a day early since there wasn’t much our instructors could do while we were scattered around the hotel.

    Truth be told, I probably spent as much time wandering the hotel trying to find my room, the elevator, a place to park Hayden, or somewhere to grab a bite to eat as I did actually relaxing. If I head back again in another eight or ten years, I’m hoping Mother Nature gives us a little more cooperation!

    But despite all the craziness…

    I came home with my new partner, Hayden!

    And thankfully, the flight home was smooth as butter. Thank the Good Lord for that. Woohoo!

    Chrissy and Hayden on the Morristown green with statue of Seeing Eye founder, Morris Frank and Buddy

    Little did I know the adventure was only beginning… more next update.

    📚 From My Writing Desk…

    The writing trail has been just as busy with the bossherd driving their authors to the stockyard A.K.A. the publish button.

    Whiskey Kisses

    My proof copy finally arrived!

    Whiskey Kisses proof copy

    This Sunday my formatter, Alexandra, and I will be giving it one final ride-through. If everything looks good, I’m hoping to have it available for preorder before August 17th.

    Life Flight Kisses

    Next up is Life Flight Kisses.

    The manuscript ended up about sixteen pages longer than expected, which means the cover has to be resized before we can publish. Keep your fingers crossed that my cover designer can get ‘er done in time. If all goes well, we’re still aiming for an August 17th release.

    Treasuring Whiskey’s Salvation

    Just before leaving for guide dog school, I finished writing Treasuring Whiskey’s Salvation.

    Now that it’s had time to rest, I can finally start editing with fresh eyes… I think!

    My goal is to release it this November. now I’m picturing a cowboy, a beach, and one breathtaking sunset. Sounds like the perfect place for a romance to bloom, don’t you think?

    The cover is still rolling around in my imagination. Right

    🤠 Something New Is Ridin’ Into Town!

    I’ve been busy behind the scenes fixing up the ranch, and before long you’ll be able to order autographed books and Prickle Forrest Books merchandise right here on ChrissyHartmann.com—and at prices that’ll be a little kinder to your wallet than buying through the big online retailers.

    We’re not quite ready to swing open the barn doors just yet, but we’re getting mighty close!

    In the meantime, you can still save a few dollars on my books by visiting each book’s page on my website and clicking the “Sale” link. While those copies won’t be personally autographed, I’d still love to make them a little more special. Just send me a message after you place your order, and I’ll happily mail you a complimentary signed bookplate along with a little personal note. That way, you can add my signature to your book when it arrives.

    Chrissy and Hayden at my desk

    📅 Events Out on the Trail…

    📅 Come See Me on the Trail!

    If you’re nearby, I’d sure love for you to stop by and say howdy.

    Here’s where you can find me over the next couple months:

    July 25 – Coshocton Book Festival

    July 25th Coshocton book Festival flyer

    August 14 – Willow & Whiskers

    August 15 – Tractor Supply Pet Days

    August 22 – Marshallville Historical Days & Farmers Market

    September 12 – Tractor Supply Fall Fest

    A few of these events will be my first outings with Hayden by my side, so come introduce yourself—and maybe him, too! I’d love nothing more than visiting with fellow readers and cowboy romance lovers.Book events

    Chrissy and Hayden

    🤎 Until Next Time…

    From tip to tail, thanks all!

    Chrissy Hartmann

    • Contemporary Western Romance Author

    • Award-Winning Short Story Writer

    • Book Reviewer

    • Blogger

    ChrissyHartmann.com

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles by Chrissy

    Follow the Prickle Forrest Chronicles  

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    *******

    Don’t miss out on the Whiskey Salvation Series…

    Where you’ll find  cowboy kisses, messy hearts, and small-town sparkle with lots of hope… So, kick off your boots, grab a Whiskey, and settle in for some romance … and more!

    ChrissyHartmann.com

    PrickleForrestChronicles.com Copyright©2026 All Rights Reserved

  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles by Chrissy Hartmann – News, some bruises, and a whole lot of biscuit love to share

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    Chrissy Hartmann

    October 2025

    Howdy Friend,

    Pull up a chair — I’ve got news, some bruises, and a whole lot of biscuit love to share.

    🖥️ New Website, Same Homestead

    I’ve launched a fresh version of my site — same URL, new look. Mosey on over and take a gander. Holler back with what you like (and what you don’t).

    https://chrissyhartmann.com

    🍪 Dog Biscuit Cookbook Almost Ridin’ Out

    That cookbook you’ve been wondering about? It’s nearly ready to hit the trail. The Grub Wrangler (that’d be me) decided to finally saddle it up for publication.

    Funny twist: I hadn’t planned to release it this year, but a new kennel, The HartFelt Boarding Kennel, came calling. They’re launching their place Saturday, October 18, from 12 to 5 and they want the book there. We won’t have printed copies just yet, but you can preorder your own. The cover reveal is happening now — take a peek if you dare.

    🎄 Christmas Anthology & Short Story Showdown

    The Wayne Novelist Guild’s Christmas anthology, Holidays in the Heartland: Ohio Christmas Tales, is out of the corral. Preorders open now, and it hits bookstore shelves November 1st.

    I’m Sheriff of the Guild, of course — and slipped in a Whiskey Salvation short story. Now here’s a question for you, straight-shooting:

    Do y’all prefer reading the shorts one at a time?

    Or would you rather have them all bundled in a collection?

    Heck, maybe both? (Makes mighty fine gifts, by the way.)

    Also, the anthology is selling well at local festivals like Woosterfest and the Canal Town Book Festival. My next stop? Winter Wonderland Days in downtown Wooster on November 21st.

    🧙‍♀️ Planning More Holiday Magic

    I’m scheming a new series of holiday short stories with a fantasy bent. Looking to release the first one by next Easter under the “Make the Holidays Great Again” banner.

    🎬 Treasuring, Vlogs & New Story Tools

    Writing Treasuring Whiskey’s Salvation is takin’ longer than expected. I’m learning screenplay-style transitions and weaving in vlog-style chapters. In Rescuing Whiskey’s Salvation, I used journal pages. In Cherishing, I used texts. Now? Vlogs in the middle scenes. Wild, huh?

    🦶 The Fall, the Foot, and the Loss of a Piggy

    Here’s the messy part. I’ve been under the weather, and then I fell down the stairs. Broke my foot. Hurt my back and hip. After some stubborn home remedies, I finally went to the ER — and got hit with the news: big toe infected, osteomyelitis from the fall, and… I lost a piggy. Yes, one toe had to go.

    I’m told balance shouldn’t be too badly affected, but I’d sure welcome a prayer or two just in case. I’ll be in the CAM boot for another six weeks (after stitches come out). Then we’ll see if I can boot-scoot again — minus the boot tiptoeing through tulips, of course.

    🥄 Signing Off (for Now)

    I’m off to whip up biscuits for the weekend’s shindig. Just wanted to make sure y’all know — I’m alive, I’m kicking (sort of), and there’s a lot more adventure ahead.

    Until next roundup,

    I hope you all enjoyed this update. Remember, kick off your boots, grab a Whiskey, and settle in for some romance!”

    Stay prickly my friends,

    Chrissy Hartmann

    P.S.

    • Check out the new site

    • Preorder that biscuit cookbook

    • Tell me: bundle the shorts or release ’em solo?

    • And yes — send prayers for balance 🙏

    ChrissyHartmann.com

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

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  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles – August 2025 – Bees, Book Festivals, and BBQs, Oh my!

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    Chrissy Hartmann

    August 2025

    Howdy Prickles,

    Well, partner, if you were wondering why your July issue never hit the trail… so was I. I think I wrote it. Pretty sure. Maybe. Trouble is, I can’t find the master copy, so it’s probably hanging out somewhere with that missing left sock from my dryer.

    ***

    Truth is, I’ve been running around like a prairie chicken with its tail feathers on fire trying to wrangle an Ohio anthology of Christmas tales. Folks are depending on me to get this baby into the corral. If the final proof rides in before week’s end, I can finally mash the old publish button.

    Official release date is November 1st, but I’m taking autographed preorders now. Just holler.

    My short story is Mistletoe Kisses.

    Meanwhile, I done roped in my own book of short stories. We’re looking at the proof, and just a few typos are still trying to buck me off. I was supposed to stick to contemporary western romances… but somewhere along the trail it took a sharp turn into the dark canyon. So if you like dark humor, witty suspense, and twisted endings — the kind that makes you grin and shiver at the same time — this one’s for you. And hey, ask your library to carry it so you can share the shivers.

    Its called Tales from the Prickle Forrest and if yu’re wondering, there is a contemporary western romance short story in there called, For the Love of Roses,with a bit of dark humor. Sorry, folks, but this is the only place you’ll be able to lay your eyes on it. So order a copy now.

    Life on the Homestead

    Got run off my own deck by a gang of yellow jackets, hornets, and wasps while trying to type. Picture me stomping around like a rodeo clown with no makeup, swatting the air and muttering about tomato plants (which I suspect are running an underground bug bar). Not a pretty sight, folks.

    Next Stop – Stars Hollow Fest

    This weekend in Medina, I’ll be setting up camp in a red tent near the gazebo. This fair’s all about cozy mysteries and small-town romances. Waving hand — that’s me! Swing by and say hi before I get swept up in the chili cook-off (if there is one… and if not, there should be) cause I got a mighty tasty chili recipe in my cookbook, The Grub Wrangler: Heartfelt Grapeseed Oil Recipes with Benefits.

    Family Feud, BBQ Edition

    End of the month, my twin and my mama are coming back to Ohio. I had the bright idea to host a BBQ… but somehow my siblings done hog-tied that plan and are now “co-hosting” — taking over. Storm clouds brewing — stay tuned.

    ***

    November Giveaway

    Don’t forget — I’m giving away a basket of books in November. Perfect for holiday gifting or keeping for yourself with a blanket and hot cocoa. To enter: sign up for my newsletter, follow me on social media, and rope a friend into signing up too.

    Reply here to let me know you took the plunge. Thanks kindly!

    Until next time, keep your boots dry and your coffee strong.

    I hope you all enjoyed this update. Remember, kick off your boots, grab a Whiskey, and settle in for some romance!”

    Stay prickly my friends,

    Chrissy Hartmann

    Chief Cook, Book Wrangler, and Occasional Insect Boot Stomper

    ChrissyHartmann.com

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

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    Don’t miss out on Chrissys 5-star Readers’ Favorite debut novel now available on digital, paperback, and large print…

    RESCUING WHISKEY’S SALVATION

    What could possibly bring a cosmetic heiress and a land developing cowboy together, yet at the same time… destroy them?

    A “dead” uncle? A closed shelter? Maybe an unruly troupe of clowns? Or all three?

    Only one way to find out…

    Find Rescuing Whiskey’s Salvation here!

    And don’t forget Chrissy’s new novella to the Whiskey Salvation Series…

    CHERISHING WHISKEY’S SALVATION

    After thirty plus years, this retired Army Colonel and cattle rancher realizes there’s only one thing he cherishes the most. And that’s the one person who roped his heart. But stubbornness, duty, coffee, and even an unruly troupe of clowns battle to loosen that hold. What’s it going to take for love to brand him forever?

    Only one way to find out.

    Find Cherishing Whiskey’s Salvation here!

    And to those who love short stories…

    Out now in the Great Lakes Fiction Writers anthology

    Love on the Lakefront: Romantic Tales from the Great Lakes

    Contains Chrissy’s latest short story…

    Tacking of Hearts: A Whiskey Salvation Short Story

    Falling for the cowboy of her heart, author Olivia Masters never imagined writing him into her island life. But when a storm hits, she discovers he’s not the cowboy she thought. What tack of the heart will set their sails for a happily ever after?

    Find Love on the Lakefront here!

    ChrissyHartmann.com

    Prickle Forrest Books LLC Copyright ©2021-2025 All Rights Reserved

  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles – May 2025 – Mother’s Day and a fond farewell…

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    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    Chrissy Hartmann

    May 2025

    Howdy, Pricklers,

    I hope you all had a wonderful Mother’s Day! Whether you were pampered or doing the pampering, you deserve all the love and celebration. 💐

    Here’s a photo of me and my son.

    I wanted to pop in with a quick update (and apologies for the lateness — life’s been a bit of a whirlwind lately).

    🎄 **Christmas Anthology News!**

    I’m thrilled to share that I’m helping with a Christmas anthology called

    Holidays in the Heartland

    It will be available for preorder in July! I’ll be contributing a short story from my Whiskey Salvation series called Mistletoe Kisses You’re going to love it — it’s heartfelt, festive, and full of that western charm you adore. In fact, check out the blurb…

    Mistletoe Kisses…

    Kash Tyler’s determined to win back the woman who’s still got his heart tied up tighter than a steer at a rodeo. Between dilapidated gingerbread houses, frosting fights, and some strategic mistletoe placement with help from his dog, he’s ready to prove that loving Rose shanklin isn’t a burden — it’s the best kind of trouble. Get ready for a holiday tale located in Wooster, Ohio that’s full of sass, second chances, and enough sugar to give a bull diabetes.

    📖 More Whiskey Salvation Goodness Coming Soon

    I’m also working on finishing my own collection of short stories, Tales from the Prickle Forrest, which will include another tale from the Whiskey Salvation series. I don’t have a title for it yet, but it’s definitely a romance… or maybe more like sweet revenge with a side of swoon. Trust me, you’ll love it! I’ll have more facts next month, at least I hope so, because I plan to publish it by the end of June.

    Some exciting news! I’ve just updated my 5-star Readers’ Favorite debut novel Rescuing Whiskey’s Salvation and officially brought it into the Whiskey Salvation series — now part of the collection! If you loved it the first time, I think you’re really going to enjoy the fresh polish and how it now fits seamlessly into the series world you know and love. I hope it captures your heart all over again. Let me know what you think — I love hearing from you!

    If you already have the old version, and you’d like one of these newer copies, let me know and I can send you an autographed copy for the shipping and handling cost.

    📚 Book Fair Fun Ahead

    Later in June I’m planning to attend a couple of book fairs! I wish I could tell you exactly where and when, but my brain is still playing catch-up after the recent loss of my father-in-law, a hubby, father, and grandfather beloved and will sorely be missed. It’s been a chaotic and emotional time for our family, and I truly appreciate your patience and support.

    I know this letter is shorter than usual, but I promise to have more exciting updates (with all the juicy details!) in June, when things hopefully calm down a bit on the home front.

    Until next time, thank you for being here and sticking with me. Your love for these stories — and your kindness — means the world.

    I hope you all enjoyed this update. Remember, “kick off your boots, grab a Whiskey, and settle in for some romance!”

    Stay prickly my friends!

    With love & cowboy kisses,

    Chrissy Hartmann

    P.S. Quick shoutout for the holiday giveaway in November… If you and a friend sign up for my newsletter you’ll have the chance to win a bundle package just in time for the Christmas season. SO sign up and let me know. Thanks!

    ChrissyHartmann.com

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

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    Prickle Forrest Books LLC Copyright ©2025 All Rights Reserved

  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles by Chrissy Hartmann – APRIL 2025 EDIT ION – Dust, Dogs, & Darn Good News… sort of

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    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    Chrissy Hartmann

    April 2025

    Dear Pricklers,

    🗓️April galloped in with all the grace of a rodeo bull — crazy good, crazy bad, and downright unpredictable. So grab a cuppa and settle in for the latest scoop from my little writing corral.

    📚 AUTHOR EVENTS – On Pause until Fall

    Author appearances are on hold until September, which gives me a smidge more time to write, revise, and breathe. But don’t worry—I’ll be back in the saddle soon enough!

    📍 UPCOMING FESTIVALS

    🎉 Canal Town Book Festival

    📅 October 4, 2025

    📍 Canal Fulton, Ohio

    I’ll be wrangling The Grub Wrangler: Heartfelt Grapeseed Oil Recipes with Benefits along with two other titles — maybe with brand-new covers if my graphic artists work their usual magic. Think Jennie Marts-style pretty!

    🤞 Buckeye Book Fair – Fingers crossed for November!

    📖 TYLER WHISKEY SALVATION SHORT STORIES

    Big news, all — this series is hitting the trail hard!

    ✔️ June 2025 – First Tyler Whiskey Salvation story in standalone paperback with juicy back matter extras

    🍂 Fall 2025– Second story launches

    🎄 December 2025 – Third story appears in Holidays in the Heartland: Ohio Christmas Tales and possibly gets its own release

    🌸 Spring 2026 – Fourth story rides in

    📕 After that: All four gathered into one mighty fine collection, Hearts and Kisses

    🔪 SUSPENSE SHORT STORIES

    The darker side of my brain’s been busy too!

    A bundle of suspense/shocker shorts will (hopefully) release summer or fall. Got thoughts on the cover? Holler at me—I’d love to hear ‘em.

    😤 A LITTLE BAD NEWS

    Well shucks! My fourth Tyler story didn’t make the cut for the Great Lakes Fiction Writers 2025 Anthology. Guess cowboy romance wasn’t their flavor. Pooh on them. We keep riding anyway.

    🤠 RIDING WITH FRIENDS

    Catch me and my bestie Cary Harter (author of the fabulous Regency romance The Earl’s Angel: Caroline’s Story at:

    – 🏞️ Northcoast Indie Author Event

    – 🏘️ Canal Town Book Festival

    – 🤞 Buckeye Book Fair November 2025.

    📝 WRITING & PROJECTS

    📚 Gearing up to release 3–4 more books this year!

    💘 Penning a short story for a Valentine’s Day Anthology (publishing Feb 2026)

    📓 Slowly but surely making progress on Tyler Whiskey Salvation collection itself, called Hearts and Kisses.

    🐾 LIFE ON THE HOMEFRONT

    Between job-hunting (thanks to a tough economy) and daily writing sprints, I’m holding the line. Hubby’s still laid off. It’s rough, but the dream ain’t dead.

    🐱 Punkin, my kitten, has turned into a nervous Nellie with all the neighbor dogs barking up a storm. Little does she know… I might be bringing home a new dog guide later this year. She’s in for a surprise!

    💉 HEALTH CHECK-IN

    Tomorrow I wrangle with my endocrinologist about the settings on my Tandem Mobi insulin pump. Love this thing—it’s working great. Bet the house I’ll win this round. 😉

    🤠 APRIL COWBOY FUN FACT

    Did ya know? The first recorded rodeo took place in Deer Trail, Colorado in 1869. Cowboys from rival ranches battled it out to settle a bet—and the rodeo was born!

    🐎 THANKS FOR RIDING ALONG

    Appreciate each and every one of you for sticking with me on this ride. Your support means more than a fresh pair of boots after a long day on the range. And don’t forget if you stay with the newsletter until November and get another cowpoke to sign up, you’ll both have the chance to win a fabulous gift basket of my books just in time for the holidays. Yeehaw! Just drop me a line that you and your friend are signed up. The list is growing, and I do love sharing my little bit of cowboy life with you all.

    Until next time, remember, kick off your boots, grab a Whiskey, and settle in for some romance!

    Stay prickly my friends,

    Chrissy Hartmann

    ChrissyHartmann.com

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

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    Prickle Forrest Books LLC Copyright ©2025 All Rights Reserved

  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles by Chrissy Hartmann February 2025 – Mooove over snowflakes, it’s time for hearts, love and cowboys!Hearts

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    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    Chrissy Hartmann

    February 2025

    Howdy Partner,

    Hope this winter is treating you kindly. Ohio’s winters can be rough especially if the temps drop lower than a tin cup left out on a frosty fence post. Oops

    So move on over snowflakes, it’s time for hearts, love, and cowboys! Woohoo! Woohoo!!

    Finally finished another short story that will be published, hopefully, in the Great Lakes Fiction Writers anthology for 2025. Woohoo! This here story is about Luke Tyler. He’s cousin to Kaleb Tyler and he’s checking out a vineyard up on Kellyes Island out there on Lake Erie to figure out if he thinks adding a vineyard to his ranch would be worthwhile. Well, He’s definitely interested once he meets the vintners daughter, Cora Krebs. Boy howdy! Its short and sweet with a lot of laughs. When the books published, which will be in July on the 26th, I’ll let you know where you can rustle it up at. Tacking of Hearts is the first story of the Whiskey Salvation anthology regarding the Tylers’. This here short is the fourth, but they’re all pretty much stand alones. So no matter your fancy, you can read them anytime. Short story two will be out this fall and short story three will be out for Christmas with my Whiskey Salvation Christmas novella. Short story 1 is already out in the GLFW 2024 anthology Love on the Lakefront: Romantic Tales from the Great Lakes. <![if !vml]>

    <![endif]>

    Still working on a title for the novella. Any suggestions for it, send my way. If it’s picked, I’ll send you a copy, digital or paperback, your choice. Thanks!

    Now on a personal note, this here cowpoke is getting her insulin pump this week. Woohoo! Looking forward to it. Call me a slacker, but I hate having to get up from writing to take more insulin. Now just have to look at my phone and press a button. I’ll be hooking up with the Tandem Mobi. Let’s hope this shiny fandangle will be the answers to my prayers.

    Book festivals are hitting the calendars for 2025. As of the moment, all set up to hit the trail for four of them, but more to come. Orrville Book Festival March 1st, Akron Book Festival March 8th, April 12th Stark County Library Book Festival, and A July 26th Rock-N-Roll Book Festival in Cleveland. Just got one shipment of my books today, waiting on The Grub Wrangler, <![if !vml]>

    <![endif]> The Grub Wrangler: Heartfelt Grapeseed Oil Recipes with Benefits cookbook book cover which I expect no later than the 17th. All my books will be on sale. So no need to rob any trains, hold up a stage coach, or go digging for gold. Just hop on that pony of yours and hit the trail. I’d love to meet ya!

    I’m considering lassoing a few videos to roundup for my YouTube channel, and might even look into Rumble, so if interested, just look me up under my user name USAWriter355. No sense letting my Meta Glasses go to waste. Right? Now they might just be of my kitten , but eventually I’ll get the hang of it and post more. However, nothings there at this minute, so don’t hightail it there, I’ll give fair warning. By the way, what kind of stuff do you want to see? Day in the life of a blind author? Hmm, those just might end up on funniest home westerns. Hahaha!

    Okay, so it’s the month of love, right? Do you all know how them there cowpokes celebrate it? And no, they aren’t out kissing their cows, maybe their cowgirls, but not them cows. They aren’t good kissers. At least that’s what a friend’s told me…

    Below here is a list of a few things a cowboy might do.

    Can you guess which one my cowboy did for me? I’ll enter your name in the giveaway for November. Just e-mail me with your answer or reply to the newsletter.

    And by the way, I’ll be giving away to one lucky cowgirl living in the good old USA the grand prize of a paperback copy of:

    • The Grub Wrangler: Heartfelt Grapeseed Oil Recipes with Benefits

    • Rescuing Whiskey’s Salvation

    • Cherishing Whiskey’s Salvation: A Whiskey Salvation Novella

    • Make Christmas Great Again

    • Love on the Lakefront: Romantic Tales from the Great Lakes

    And to you five runnerups, I’ll be dishing out one digital copy of each of my books listed above. So send me your answers. Don’t forget to mention which digital book you’d prefer if you’re picked as a runnerup.

    Which here did my cowboy do for me to express his tender heart filled with love?

    Lasso the moon – Promises me he’ll rope the moon for me … but ends up tangled in his own lasso. Not a pretty sight! In fact darn right dangerous.

    Romantic horseback dinner – Tries to set up a candlelit dinner on horseback, only for his horse to steal the steak off his plate. Obviously not a vegetarian.

    Sings a love ballad to his cattle – Serenades his cows with a heartfelt country song just for practice, only to be met with blank stares and an untimely moo. Is that what you call “cattle-walloring?”

    Heart-shaped branding – Thinks branding a heart with our initials onto his boots is romantic but forgets it’s still hot and burns a hole in his chaps. Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!

    Buys his sweetheart a bouquet of wildflowers – Picks a bunch of prairie flowers, only to realize too late that half of them are just weeds. Obviously, his Mamma never learned him on flowers. And by the way, Fire-N-Ice roses are my favorite.

    I hope you all enjoyed this update. May your Valentine’s Day have been a sweet one and remember, kick off your boots, grab a Whiskey, and settle in for some romance!”

    Stay prickly my friends,

    Chrissy Hartmann

    ChrissyHartmann.com

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

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  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles by Chrissy Hartmann January 2025 Well butter my biscuit and call me speechless…

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    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    Chrissy Hartmann

    January 2025

    🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲

    🤠 Dear Prickles,

    Well butter my biscuit and call me speechless – I’ve got more news than a cattle rustler’s got excuses! Grab your coffee and settle in for this here roundup.

    First off, my cookbook, : Heartfelt Grapeseed Oil Recipes with Benefits is now available and is out there on the trail as of today, January 31st, which just happens to be this cowpoke’s birthday. And you all can wrangle yourself a copy faster than a tumbleweed in a tornado. If you’ve already got yours reserved, bless your heart – and if you’re feeling particularly neighborly, a review would be more appreciated than rain in a drought.

    🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲

    I’d like to extend my most sincere apologies to those who live out of the good old USA, as the cookbook is not available in print. It, however, can be herded into your digital shopping cart internationally from most retailers. I sure wish you all could get it, it’s a mighty beautiful book!

    But hold onto your hats, cause that’s just the beginning. I’ve got not one, but two more books on the horizon. One’s an anthology of short stories, written by this here cowboy and the other’s another anthology where our good old friend Luke Tyler from Whiskey will be featured. And if your wondering, he’s cousin to Kaleb, Kash, and Kaden Tyler.

    Keep your eyes peeled for the GLFW anthology coming out in late June, which should have Lukes short story in it where he’s met the love of his life, Cora Krebs a vintner on Kellyes Island on Lake Erie, plus it’ll have a whole boot scooting variety of other short stories you won’t want to miss.

    Still got a hold of your hat? cause this next bit’s got me more excited than a kid at their first rodeo – I’m getting myself one of them fancy Tandem Mobi insulin pumps! This little beauty works right off an iPhone and is friendlier to us blind folk than a well-trained horse. Yours truly will be learning the ropes in the next couple weeks, and I reckon it’ll be smoother than a prairie sunrise.

    Speaking of hitting the trail, I’ll be moseying on down to three book festivals in March and April — Orrville Book Festival March 1st and Akron Book Festival March 8th and Stark Library Book Fest April 12th — with my sights set on two more roundups in October and November — Canal Town Book Fest October 4th and Buckeye Book Fair November 2nd —. The Grub Wrangler will be riding shotgun at every last one of ’em. And here’s where it gets interesting, pardners – anyone who stops by my table and picks up The Grub Wrangler or any other book gets entered into a special prize drawing. And don’t you fret if you can’t make it. I’ll rustle up a signup for those of you here on the e-mail list already. Now, I’m not spilling all the beans just yet, but come November’s newsletter, two lucky buckaroos will be riding off into the sunset with a mighty fine prize. Keep your eyes peeled for more details in February’s dispatch of the Prickle Forrest Chronicles.

    And if that’s not enough to make you holler "yeehaw," the Seeing Eye dog guide school’s done reached out about setting up a Juno walk next week. Looks like this cowpoke might be getting a new four-legged partner sooner than expected! At least that’s what we here on the ranch hope. I’ve requested a male shepherd and they’re sometimes harder to get than lassoing your favorite cowboy to do a two-step with you at the local square dance.

    Now, since we’re talking all things cowboy, let me tell you something about how us ranch hands have been participating in democracy since the early days. Them original cowboys were about as diverse as the wild frontier itself – Black, Hispanic, Native American, and white folks all working the same trails. And when it came to voting, well, cowboys historically weren’t too partial to either side of the political fence. They tended to vote based on what affected their livelihood most – land rights, cattle prices, and water access. Even today, you’ll find cowboys across these United States voting every which way, proving we’re about as independent as they come. And let’s not forget the inauguration either. These here cowboys like to celebrate a good win so they might cut loose sipping on a whiskey, firing off a few rounds of ammo, and eating a hearty meal before shut eye. If they’re lucky enough to be holding up at the bunk house, they might have an impromptu two-step with the local cowgirls. But for the most part, sunrise comes early for these hard working boys in the saddle and they’re back to work mending fences and tending the herd.

    Speaking of the inauguration, how did you celebrate it this year? Did you two-step at any inaugural balls or did you settle in and watch this here author’s Buckeyes win the National College Football Championship? Me? Started with mimosas at 12:02 pm danced a jig or two then settled in on the couch with the cowboys to watch my scarlet and gray win. Woohoo! Woohoo! Did manage to munch on a few of my savory starters that The Grub Wrangler managed to rustle up in-between plays. One such favorites were chipotle hummus with veggies and chicken cranberry salad with pecans on pepper crackers. Woohoo! Woohoo!

    Until next time, stay prickly, my friend, 🌵

    Now kick off your boots, grab a Whiskey, and settle in for some romance!

    Chrissy Hartmann

    🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲

    Prickle Forrest Books LLC Copyright©2025 All Rights Reserved

  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles by Chrissy Hartmann – September 2024 – Fall into a…

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    Chrissy Hartmann

    ·

    September 2024

    ·

    Dear Pricklers,

    ·

    Hope you’re all kicking up your boots and enjoying the last bit of summer as we roll into fall. I’ve got some exciting things coming up in September, October, and November, so grab a pumpkin spice latte (or maybe a pumpkin funnel cake, more on that later!), and let’s dive into the latest news.

    ·

    Book Event Round-Up!

    Fall is packed with fantastic book events, and I can’t wait to meet more of you all in person! Here’s what’s on the horizon:

    Kicking it off with…

    – September 28th– Join me at Bellevue Public Library for an author meet-and-greet! I’ll be chatting about all things books, romance, and cowboys, of course from 1-3 pm You’ll be able to get a copy of my latest short story, “TACKING OF HEARTS: A WHISKEY SALVATION SHORT STORY found in the Great Lakes Fiction Writer’s anthology “LOVE ON THE LAKEFRONT: Romantic Tales from the Great Lakes .

    – October 5th– Canal Town Book Fest.

    – October 12th– Massillon Public Library Book Fest

    ·

    – November 2nd– 137th Buckeye Book Fair Woohoo! Woohoo!

    – November 9th– Willouby Romance Writers Book Fair

    But more details on those festivities later. Keep your eyes peeled for updates!

    Football Season’s Kicked Off:

    So football season started Saturday last. Do you follow it or do you become a football widower? Growing up with a dad who coached and played with two brothers who played and now married to a fanatic about it, well, guess I had to join the heard. Yes, I even have my own Fantasy Football team. My team’s name is the Gridiron Geese. They one their first game. Woohoo! I’ll keep you posted on how the season goes. My favorite teams are the Buckeyes and the Browns. Right? After all I am from Ohio. If you follow, who do you think will win this year? If not what do you do to fill the time when your cowboy is tied up with the boob tube?

    Cookbook Update: Almost There!

    The cookbook is taking it’s sweet old time to meander closer to the finish line, but I’m still wrangling those last two recipes. You wouldn’t believe the trouble we’re having getting them just right! The grub wrangler’s been working overtime to fix things, so I’m hopeful we’ll have it done soon! I’ll be sure to post a special update when we do. Thanks for being patient!

    Flu Blues & Fair Foods

    I was all set to take a little break for the county fair and the ELO concert (love me some Electric Light Orchestra!), but then the flu hit hard. I missed out on the fair, and, even worse, I missed my favorite fair food—Pumpkin Funnel Cakes! I’m a little bummed, but hey, maybe I can convince the grub wrangler to make one for me. Hmm? Anyone want the odds on this?

    Boot scooting for ELO is still on the horizon. Posts will be made on social media for updates if you want to take a gander, but not until Saturday night.

    What’s your favorite fair food? Hit reply and let me know! I’d love to hear about it, especially since I’m stuck dreaming about mine this year!

    Almost Set the Kitchen on Fire… Oops!

    Okay, here’s a funny story for you. I almost pulled an Evie Mae Stockton moment and set the kitchen on fire! Well, sort of… I left a soup pot on the burner, and my hubby woke up to smoke filling the kitchen. Luckily, he swooped in and saved the day, preventing any real fire damage. He’s definitely my hero this week! And yes, I’m staying far away from the stove for a bit, HaHa!

    Author Spotlight: Cary Harter’s Regency Romance!

    I’ve been helping out my bestie get her debut novel ready to publish, and you all are gonna love it. It’s a Regency romance called “The Earl’s Angel” (perfect title, right?), and it’s GOOD, real good. Look for more updates soon!

    And just to let you know, The Prickle Forrest Books team are working hard with Cary to get this one ready to shine. It should be out before the month’s end if not sooner.

    Fall Into a Book Giveaway

    If you love free books (who doesn’t?), don’t miss out on the Fall Into a Book Giveaway! It starts on September 19th and ends on the 21st, with winners picked on the last day. Be sure to join the Fall Into A Book Giveaway Facebook Group to enter! You won’t want to miss this.

    Upcoming Releases

    I’ve got some BIG news for y’all! In NovemberI’ll be releasing large print editions of both “Rescuing Whiskey’s Salvation” and “Cherishing Whiskey’s Salvation,” just in time for cozy fall reading.

    And for fans of Kash Tyler who stars in “Tacking of Hearts” in the Great Lakes Fiction Writers anthology “Love on the Lakefront: Romantic Tales from the Great Lakes”, (Kaleb Tyler’s older brother), I’ve got a brand-new Christmas short story about him. Watch for a Pony Express notice of it’s digital debut on Black Friday. So mark your calendars and look for it then—it’s a fun one!

    A Little Cowboy Wisdom: How Cowboys Handle Sickness on the Range

    Speaking of the flu… ever wonder how cowboys dealt with getting sick while out on the range? They didn’t have the luxury of doctors or a comfy bed! Cowboys relied on natural remedies like sagebrush tea or a shot of whiskey to keep going. When things got really bad, they just rode it out and hoped their buddies could pick up the slack. Tough bunch, right?

    And woah ! Lets not forget huckleberries! Yep, cowboys ate these little berries or brewed them into tea to help with digestive issues, reduce inflammation, and even treat colds and fevers. Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, huckleberries were a cowboy’s secret weapon for staying healthy.

    ·

    Now, here’s a fun question for you all—do you think this is what Doc Holliday meant when he said, “I’ll be your huckleberry?” 😉 Hahaha!

    ·

    That’s all for now, folks! Don’t forget to send me your favorite fair food—I’m excited to hear about them. Until next time, keep it cowboy, and take care of yourselves!

    ·

    Stay prickly my friends,

    ·

    Chrissy Hartmann

    ChrissyHartmann.com

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    Newsletter Sign-Up

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    Find my books and other books you will enjoy on:

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    ·

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    Prickle Forrest LLC

    Copyright ©2024 All Rights Reserved

  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles by Chrissy Hartmann – August 2024 A fist full of…

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    Chrissy Hartmann

    August 2024

    🌲🌲🌲

    Howdy Pricklers,

    Things are heating up! We’ve got a fist full of…prizes to send via the Prickle Forrest Express. Yeehaw!

    So, welcome to the August edition of my newsletter! I’m thrilled to have you here as I journey through the latest updates, exciting events, and exclusive opportunities in the world of contemporary western romance. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s read on!

    🌲🌲🌲

    🏠 Housekeeping

    I understand some of you might have trouble unsubscribing from my newsletter. If you find yourself unable to unsubscribe using the link below, please e-mail me via my website to privately submit your e-mail for the removal request. It seems that those of you who joined through a promo and were manually added are sorted into a different category, which is causing this issue. I appreciate your help in resolving this matter and apologize for any inconvenience. 🙏

    🌲🌲🌲

    🌊 Great Lakes Fiction Writers Conference Recap

    Boy howdy! What a turnout!!! Would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the readers who stopped by my table at the Great Lakes Fiction Writers conference on Saturday, August 10th. It was wonderful to meet so many of you in person! If you missed out, don’t worry—you can still get an autographed copy of my book by contacting me through my website. 📚✨

    🌲🌲🌲

    📸 Fan Shoutout Contest

    I love seeing my readers with my books! Tag me on social media holding my book, and one lucky fan will get a shoutout in my September newsletter. We’ll be running this contest through November, and one grand prize winner will be drawn in December for a special prize. Authors, if you participate, I’ll give your next book a shoutout too! Use the tags #ChrissyHartmann #WhiskeyLover . 🤩📖

    Find me here on:

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    🌲🌲🌲

    🎁 King Sumo Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

    Saddle Up folks, time for the giveaway!

    Yeehaw!🤠 I’m excited to announce the King Sumo Amazon gift card giveaway! Follow one, two, three, or all of the 25 participating authors for your chance to win. Winners will be announced on August 19th. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover new authors and win a fantastic prize! 🎉📦

    King Sumo Giveaway Link

    🌲🌲🌲

    🐴 Cowboy History for August

    Did you know? August 1878 marked the famous Lincoln County War’s end in New Mexico, where legendary figures like Billy the Kid became notorious. This range war was one of the many conflicts that shaped the Old West, highlighting the fierce independence and rugged lifestyle of the cowboys we love to write and read about. Who’s your favorite cowboy? Mine? He likes to be your huckleberry! HaHaHa! 🌵📜

    🌲🌲🌲

    💌 Stay Connected

    Let’s keep the conversation going! Follow me on social media for daily updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

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    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    🌲🌲🌲

    Thanks for riding these trails with me.

    Until next time, 🐎💖

    Now kick off your boots, grab a Whiskey, and settle in for some romance!

    Stay prickly my friends,

    Chrissy Hartmann

    ChrissyHartmann.com

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    Newsletter Sign-Up

    Follow Me:

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    Find my books and other books you will enjoy on:

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    ChrissyHartmann.com

    Prickle Forrest LLC Copyright ©2024 All Rights Reserved