PrickleForrestChronicles By Chrissy Hartmann

Tag: Indie author

  • 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

    Howdy Prickles!

    Grab your favorite cold drink, pull up a porch chair, and stay awhile. Here’s what’s been happening around Prickle Forrest Chronicles this month!

    🐾 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

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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 – January 2026 – A Brand New Chapter

    PRICKLE FORREST CHRONICLES

    by Chrissy Hartmann

    January 2026

    Howdy Prickles,

    Welcome to January 2026 and a brand-new chapter of the Prickle Forrest Chronicles. If 2025 taught me anything, it’s that indie publishing — much like a good western romance—requires grit, heart, and the willingness to keep riding even when the trail gets bumpy.

    I wanted to kick off the year by sharing what’s ahead, because 2026 is shaping up to be a busy, hopeful, and story-filled year around here.

    Looking Back (Just for a Moment)

    Last year reminded me why I chose this indie path in the first place. Audiobooks continued to grow, libraries showed real love for indie authors, and readers kept proving that heartfelt, small-town romance still matters. I watched authors adapt, learn new tools, and deepen connections with their readers — and I’m carrying that momentum straight into this year.

    Now, let’s talk about what’s coming.

    New Book Events on the Horizon

    One of my favorite parts of being an author is meeting readers face-to-face. In 2026, I’ll be attending more book events and signings, and I can’t wait to share details as dates and locations are finalized. There’s nothing quite like talking books, love stories, and small-town magic across a table piled high with paperbacks. And the first event will be in Bellaire, Ohio on February 19th. More info can be found on my events page.

    But keep an eye on your inbox — you’ll be the first to know where I’ll be setting up next.

    Another Large Print Edition is Coming

    This year, I’m expanding accessibility with another large print edition of Merry Christmas Whiskey. This story should be easy to enjoy, whether you’re reading by lamplight, with tired eyes, or simply prefer a larger, more comfortable format. I’m excited to make this novella available to more readers in 2026. And don’t forget, Rescuing Whiskey’s Salvation – Large Print,  Cherishing Whiskey’s Salvation: A Whiskey Salvation Novella – Large Print, and  Love on the Lakefront: Romantic Tales from the Great Lakes – Large Print are already available.

    A Whiskey Salvation Anthology Is in the Works

    Yes—another anthology is coming your way. But this time, it’s strictly  all Whiskey! I love short story projects because they bring together different characters, shared themes, and a whole lot of heart. This upcoming collection, Buckeye Hearts and Lone Star Kisses  will continue that tradition, and I’ll be sharing more about the theme and stories as the year unfolds.

    A Full-Length Novel Is on the Way

    I’m also deep into writing with the help of JanoWriMo , Treasuring Whiskey’s Salvation! a new full-length contemporary western romance novel. It’s one of those stories that’s been tugging at my sleeve—messy emotions, second chances, and the kind of love that grows slow and steady under wide skies… even  though these may be Bermuda skies.

    I’ll be taking you behind the scenes as this story comes together, from early drafts to cover plus more.

    Looking Ahead: Spanish Translations

    Later in 2026, I’m exploring the possibility of Spanish translations for select titles. This is something I’ve wanted to do for a while—finding new ways to let these stories travel farther and reach readers beyond English-speaking borders. It’s still early days, but it’s a horizon I’m excited to ride toward.

    Thank You for Being Here

    If you’ve been with me for years or just joined the Prickle Forrest Chronicles community, please know how much your support means. Indie publishing works because of readers who show up, cheer us on, and believe in stories told with heart.

    Here’s to 2026—to new books, new events, new formats, and new opportunities. I’m so glad you’re riding along with me.

    Kick off your boots, grab a Whiskey, and settle in for some romance with cowboy kisses, messy hearts, and small-town sparkle … There are plenty more stories ahead.

    Stay prickly friend,

    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 

    Prickle Forrest Books

    CleanBooks.com

    Amazon

    Contact Chrissy

    Contact Prickle Forrest Books

    Follow Chrissy:

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    ChrissyHartmann.com Copyright©2026 All Rights Reserved

  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles – May 2023 Wow! Almost half way there…

    PRICKLE FORREST CHRONICLES

    May 2023

    Dear Pricklers,

    Wow! Half-way point for 2023 is almost here. So, what are you doing for Memorial Day? Here? Probably will go to the Memorial Day parade. Not sure , though. Maybe if the resident Eagle Scout will be marching in it as he’s done in the past. Well actually not maybe, more like definitely. After all who doesn’t love a parade?

    The resident Eagle Scout is helping out with the troop, so, hoping he does. If he does, will go and watch for sure. Other than that, would like to grill out on the deck and write. And speaking of writing, here’s a little bit to catch you up…

    The Past …

    Well, had both books from the Whiskey Salvation Series on Kindle Unlimited for the last 90 days. Both did well. But on the 17th of May, Kindle Unlimited will come to an end for the Whiskey Salvation Series. Going wide!

    In fact, Rescuing Whiskey’s Salvation has already gone wide. Look below for the links to find it. And definitely feel free to share that information. Will however probably reshelve the books on to Kindle Unlimited when the third book of the series comes out. Thinking about bundling the three up for the holidays, but only if number 3 gets published before or after Turkey Day. Keep the fingers crossed, please. Tried it, butt too hard to type that way, so will need some help and yours is the best. Thanks!

    Launched a book tour with Silver Dagger Tours. Maia Gomez is fantastic. In fact, it’s still going strong. Want to follow it? Check it out at her website. There is a giveaway. A $30 Amazon card and 4 aluminum Rescuing Whiskey’s Salvation book marks, which they are a personal favorite. Actually could have given 5 away, but needed to keep one, after all it’s the first book in the series.

    Catch up to the tour at these blogs:

    C.A.Milson
    Literary Gold

    Also met two really sweet bloggers who are going to do a review of Rescuing Whiskey’s Salvation and Cherishing Whiskey’s Salvation .

    Heather and Kim asked for hard copies. So one of our mottos is “We aim to please” , Therefore,, autographed two and sent them. Added a little flare to them too. Not sure if you can see it in the picture below, but Kim definitely points it out.

    And Kim graciously made a TikTok unwrapping video upon receiving the books. Check it out, it’s wonderful!
    #chrissyhartmann #silverdaggerbooktours #bookish #readersoftiktok #readersofbooktok #bookloversunite #bookinfluencer #booktok #booklover #KU #kindleunlimited #romance #cowboy
    logo.png Kim Dabbs on TikTok

    		 tiktok.com

    And as for that little survey that made it into the April newsletter… about who might like Cherishing Whiskey Salvation best… You know, who would like it better… the guys vs the gals… looks like from the response it’s neck and neck. Reminds one of the Kentucky Derby. Right? Maybe your favorite author you just happen to be reading about right now. Huh? Hint! Hint!

    Speaking of the Derby…did you watch the best 2 minutes in sports this past May 6th?

    Never would have thought Mage would win. Did you? In fact, picked Cyclone Mischief to win with Two Phil’s to place, and Confidence Game to show.

    Well, at least got 1 out of the 3 correct. Wonder what Angel of Empire won? And best of all, placed third in the hat contest at the Galaxy’s Kentucky Derby party. Woohoo! Woohoo!

    Next year going to attend the same party, but will wear a different hat. Send some suggestions to decorate the same style of hat, but different colors, dark brown and black. Love those colors. Actually, the prettiest horses are ones with those colors. Right? If you have any suggestions, thoughts, or ideas send them to me. Love hearing from you. And don’t forget to mention who you picked to win the Derby. Do you think Mage is a Triple Crown contender?

    The Present …

    Just curious… do you have an alter ego? It’s looking more and more like there’s one here. Or is it a split personality? Haven’t figured that out yet. In the meantime, one of the alters’ is getting things accomplished. And it’s all good. Woohoo!

    For one thing… The reader magnet is finished. It’s being edited right now. Hoping to have it out June 1st. Don’t worry, they’ll be a link for those of you who would like to read it. Made it especially for any newcomers. But won’t dare leave any of you out.

    In the meantime, working on the presentation on Book Funnel and BookBub. Also, at the moment, the website https://chrissyhartmann.com is getting a makeover. Nothing outrageous, but a few additions added to the merch on the Extras page

    https://chrissyhartmann.com/extras

    and a few new pics on My Darlings page

    https://chrissyhartmann.com/my darlings

    Changing up the bio and adding the book cover for book three. SO, if you want a peek at it check it out at https://chrissyhartmann.com

    And for those of you who are new, last month, put out a cry for help. Well not really, but it does make it more desperate sounding, right? So, you’ll look, right?

    Anyway, need a name for Josiah’s plane. Right now, its name is “Silver”

    Admittedly, the plane is silver and black. Yes, the magnet is part of a western romance series, but This Silver is nothing like the Lone Rangers… well sort of. However, the editor doesn’t like the name. Need another name. Have been told it’s a little corny. So, taking suggestions for a new name. If you have something good, please send it in.

    Submit it here https://chrissyhartmann.com/contact

    And just in case you need details, it’s a little 4-seater Cessna 172 plane that is silver and black. And yes, the plane is a big part of this story. If you read both books from the Whiskey Salvation Series, you’ll know why. And, the idea is being tossed around about writing a full-length novel and not just this magnet. IF you have no clue as to what’s being talked about, well, then maybe there’s a few of you who need to read the books, huh?

    And if you have, leave a review using the following links. Authors love reviews good or bad. Helps make the writing better. Thanks! Leave a review at

    Rescuing Whiskey’s Salvation

    https://amazon.com/review/create-review?asin=B09KZM7M1C

    Cherishing Whiskey’s Salvation

    https://amazon.com/review/create-review?asin=B0BTBLC6T5

    There are two other stories on standby after the third book is finished. But they may stray off the western path. Maybe. But thinking about it now, might not have to. Woohoo!

    What do you think of cowboys and Vikings and the fae? And how about a new name for Josiah’s plane?

    Please, please, send me your comments and/or thoughts.

    https://chrissyhartmann.com/contact

    The Future …

    Excitement is brewing here at the Prickle Forrest. There’s a new little grove forming off the main Forrest. It does have something to do with writing. Everyone will benefit from it. And, no it is not a papermill either. Sheesh!

    Readers and Authors will hopefully love it. Only a few things left to get it launched. But don’t worry, the novel writing will continue here. Not giving that up. No way, no how! Promise!

    Had planned on attending the Columbus Book Festival July 15th and 16th, but with the new little grove thing happening and the need to get book 3 done, won’t have time to spend 2 days at it. Hopefully next year, though. Do plan to venture down with a group of writer friends to support those who are attending. Crazy, huh?

    Plus, putting together a book of short stories. And yes, there will be 1 if not 2 award-winning short stories in the book. Only going to put this out in digital format. More news to come later…

    Hey, what’s the rumor about the format of the Kindle books changing? What’s the deal with that? And those books already purchased in Mobi format, will they still work on the Kindle?

    Got any answers, shoot them over to https://chrissyhartmann.com/contact

    They better continue to work on the kindles! There’s a ton of books on this kindle. Haven’t even made a dent in the library. But currently reading

    Peter Gibbons Viking Blood and Blade. Hope to have a book review for it out next month. And that’ folks is a hint on what’s coming from the Prickle Forrest. Stay tuned…

    And not to forget Prickle Forrest Chronicles new subscribers… “Welcome and thank you for joining!

    Stay prickly, my friends!

    Chrissy Hartmann

    *******

    Don’t miss out on Chrissys debut novel now available on digital and paperback…

    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…

    Amazon:

    https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KZM7M1C

    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.

    Amazon:

    https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BTBLC6T5

    Prickle Forrest LLC

    Copyright 2023

    All Rights reserved

  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles Special Edition Author Interview with Julie Lucia

    PRICKLE FORREST CHRONICLES

    SPECIAL Edition 

    Romance Author Interview

    Welcome to the Prickle Forrest Chronicles, Julie Lucia!

    It’s wonderful you could take the time to share with the Pricklers a bit about you and your writing.

    First, where are you from? How long have you been writing? What book is this for you? First? Second? Or too many it’s hard to remember? 

    I am from Buffalo, New York. I have been writing for over ten years. This is my fourth book and my first contemporary romance. 

    What type of romance do you write? What romances do you love to read? Do you have a favorite romance author that inspires you?

    I typically write Historical Romances, but I decided to change it up a bit and wrote my first Contemporary Romance. I enjoy reading Contemporary Romances with a Supernatural twist. I hate to be cliché, but a romance author that inspires me is Jane Austen since her writing always ends with a sweet happily ever after. 

    In brief, tell us about your book, Best Friends Christmas. 

    When besties Allison and Avery swear off desperation holiday affairs and write their Christmas bucket list, suddenly men find them irresistible. Allison runs into her college crush and Avery finds herself being pursued by a charming hockey player. This new wrinkle wreaks havoc on their bucket list. 

    When you received your first copy of your newly published book, Best Friends Christmas how did you feel? Did you flood social media with a book selfie? Celebrate with Champagne? Chocolate? Or pass out? 

    My family and I celebrated with a night out to our favorite restaurant. 

    When you’re stuck with a scene, how do you resolve the trouble? Take a shower? Call your writing pals? Reenact the scene with your significant other? 

    I call on my friends to help me work through the obstacle, either with a walk or a long talk on the phone. 

    Besides your computer, what can be found on your writing desk? Pictures of a hunky guy? Gorgeous woman? Coffee? Popcorn? Craft books? Empty wine glass? Chocolate? The latest issue of Vogue? The Writer’s Magazine? Or maybe a fluffy fur ball? In other words, what helps you write? 

    On my writing desk, a cup of hazelnut coffee, the prayer of Saint Francis De Sales, and my reading glasses can be found. 

    What type of character populates the majority of your pages? What’s your favorite trope to read and write? After you’ve written your novel, ever get stunned by the fact that you wrote it?

    A resilient character that can persevere through obstacles populates the majority of my pages. My favorite trope to read and also write is enemies to lovers. Every time I go back and read an excerpt of my pieces of writing I always get astounded that I wrote them. 

    So, say you want to do a box set with two other romance authors, who would you choose? What romance trope would you write?

    When I was sixteen, I read Rose of the Mists by Laura Parker and I was introduced to the romance genre. I was instantly hooked and was inspired to start writing romance of my

    own. I would want to collaborate with Laura Parker and Nora Roberts to work on a strangers to lovers romance. 

    If you had the opportunity to promote one of your books from your backlist, which would you choose? Why?

    It would be Happenstance, hands down. This book started as a dream that I had and the love interest, Sanderson, is my favorite of all the protagonists I have written. 

    If someone were to make a movie based on your book, which actors would play the leading roles?

    Allison would be played by Florence Pugh. Avery would be played by Hailee Steinfeld. Jack would be played by Charlie Gillespie. Sam would be played by Ross Lynch. 

    Finally, we know you’re a romantic, right? So what is the most romantic thing you’ve ever had your MCs do to win the love of their life?

    In Happenstance, Sanderson tries to rescue the main character in a blizzard to win her love. 

    Where can we find your book…

    Belgravehouse.com, Amazon, Google Play, and Apple Books

    Where do you socialize……

    Facebook: @SouthernBeautyBook

    Twitter: @scribelucia

    Big –big thanks to Julie Lucia for taking the time to travel into the Prickle Forrest and share a bit about your writing and Best Friends Christmas. And much thanks to our readers who make it all possible. 

    “Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!”

    Please don’t hesitate to comment, but better yet, check out Julie Lucia’s newest release at https://a.co/d/ccqeqW6 . 

    Enjoy!

    Chrissy Hartmann 

    Prickle Forrest LLC

    https://chrissyhartmann.com/blog

    January 2023© All Rights Reserved