Tag: sweet romance

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

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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

July 23, 2026

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

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

May 17, 2023

SPECIAL EDITION – Prickle Forrest Chronicles by Chrissy Hartmann – Indie Romance Author Interview – Jennifer Skinnell – November 29, 2022

PRICKLE FORREST CHRONICLES

SPECIAL Edition

Indie Romance and Mystery Author, Jennifer Skinnell

Welcome to the Prickle Forrest Chronicles, Jennifer Skinnell!

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’m originally from Ohio, but spent 34+ years in Northern Virginia before selling everything and traveling full-time with my husband in our RV. I began my writing career in 2016 and to date I have six books published—my 5-book Hope Springs Romance Series and the first book in my Palm Shores RV Resort Mystery Series.

What type of romance do you write? What romances do you love to read?

I write sweet romantic comedies about love and life in a small town. I like to find other independent authors like myself. Kind of like “shopping small”.

Do you have a favorite romance author that inspires you?

As far as inspiration goes, Debbie Macomber is one of my favorites. I know she’s not an independent author, but after reading one of her novels, I feel inspired to keep writing.

In brief, tell us about your book, One Sweet Development.

Book cover for Jennifer Sskinnell’s novel One Sweet Development

One Sweet Development is the first of 5 books in my Hope Springs Romance Series. It is the one that started it all, as they say.

Hope Springs, Virginia, is home to the Advice Quilting Bee and is full of strong, independent women. In One Sweet Development, Chandler Bradford, the town baker and historian, is trying to save the town from real estate developer, Peter Frederick. Rosie Macintire, the town matriarch, is Peter’s grandmother. Along with the Little Old Lady Network and a few spirits, Rosie shows Peter there is more to life than money and that Chandler is all he needs to make him happy.

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

I remember standing in my kitchen when the Amazon package arrived. I was literally shaking as I opened the box and I cried. Of course, once I pulled it together, I spread the word on Facebook that my book was up and ready to buy.

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?

Sometimes I’ll go for a bike ride with my husband and the answer will come to me. I’ve been known to pull off to the side of the trail and type my thoughts in my notes app so I don’t forget everything!

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?

Since I live in an RV, my desk is our kitchen table. Usually just a cup of coffee, my iPad and my computer. Sometimes I pull out a steno pad and head to the picnic table if the weather is nice and we have a great view.

What type of character populates the majority of your pages?

I love writing about strong, independent women. They have great careers or run their own business, so having a man isn’t a necessity. For the man, he must be kind, loving, and respectful to the woman he’s interested in.

What’s your favorite trope to read and write?

Definitely a small-town romance with a twist. I like throwing a few spirits in my books to help move the relationship along.

After you’ve written your novel, ever get stunned by the fact that you wrote it?

Not necessarily the entire novel, but definitely parts of it. My aunt was a big inspiration for me in beginning my writing career, and unfortunately, she did not live to read any of my books. She died tragically two weeks after I told her I was beginning my first novel. I do feel, however, that she is with me at times. I’ll go back and read something I’d written the day before and not even remember writing that chapter or scene!

If you write the hotter romances, when’s the best time for you to write those scenes? Does the writing come natural or do you make yourself blush? Have your parents stopped answering your calls? Buy you a gold-plated keyboard? Or have they signed you up for sex counseling classes?

Since my novels are of the clean and wholesome variety, this isn’t something I have to deal with.

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

That is a great question. I don’t have names, but being and independent author (without a publishing company backing me), I’d have to say I’d pick two other authors who don’t have one either. It would be in the sweet small-town romance genre, though.

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

Jennifer Skinnell’s book cover for her debut mystery series

Aside from writing my Hope Springs Romance Series, I have also published Death by Golf Cart, the first in my Palm Shores RV Resort Mystery Series. It’s a definite departure from writing a romance series, but it is a cozy mystery with a romantic thread.

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

I’ve always pictured my books in my head as movies from that certain greeting card channel. There are so many good actors on that channel, that it would depend on who fit the character description in each book.

Do you have any blog tours, signings, or other upcoming events that you would like to promote?

Since I live and travel full-time, those things are not an option for me. All my promoting is strictly through social media.

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?

As much as I’d like to answer this, in my novels this is always part of the plot. You’ll just have to read my books to find out!

Where can we find your book…

My books are available on Amazon in eBook, Kindle Unlimited, and Paperback. Visit my Amazon Author Page for all the details.

Where do you socialize……

Facebook: Jennifer Skinnell, Author

Instagram: Jennifer Skinnell, Author

Pinterest: @jenniferskinnel

Website: Jennifer Skinnell, Author

Amazon Author Page: Jennifer Skinnell

Big –big thanks to Jennifer Skinnell for taking the time to travel into the Prickle Forrest and share a bit about your writing and One Sweet Development. 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 Jennifer Skinnell’s newest release at jenniferskinnell.com

Enjoy!

Chrissy Hartmann

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Prickle Forrest LLC

2022© All Rights Reserved

November 29, 2022