Maggie Blackbird

Today, author Shantal Sessions is guesting. She’s talking about her latest release Christmas with the Cowboy, book two in the A Cowboys and Tiaras Romance series, a holiday romance. Don’t forget to enter the Rafflecopter giveaway.

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Shantal’s Literary Pilgrimages:

When my son graduated from Oxford University, we planned a family trip to visit him and tour the country. I’ve always wanted to go to England and I was so excited! I specialized in British literature for my Masters degree, and many of my favorite authors are from England. We knew it would be a whirlwind adventure, basically going from one place to the other quickly because there was so much we all wanted to see in a short period of time.

While in the planning stages, I told everyone they could pick ONE thing they’d always wanted to see or do in England. They picked castles and battlefields, driving James Bond’s Astin Martin and seeing Hamilton in London. All fantastic choices and made the trip varied and fun. My choices were different. My dreams for England were full of outdoor adventures. Peak District National Park was my top choice. Why? Well, because of Stanage Edge. It’s an area in the park where Elizabeth Bennett (of Pride and Prejudice fame) stood on a big boulder to the see the stunning view below. My favorite film versions contain scenes of Elizabeth standing on rocks at Stanage Edge. We know from the book that the Derbyshire area’s beauty inspired Jane Austen.

I had just recovered from knee replacement surgery and didn’t know if I’d be able to hike to the rock, but I persevered and felt GREAT! It was breathtaking and absolutely unforgettable.

How Shantal Became an Author:

I published my first book five years ago, but I’ve been writing much longer than that. First and foremost, I’m an avid reader! I’ve loved losing myself in a book since I was a kid, and I’ve written in a journal most of my life. It wasn’t until I suffered an extreme case of post-partem depression that I knew I had to engage my mind much more strenuously if I was going to overcome the problem. I had an epiphany in the shower (I know, inspiration in the shower. So cliché. Lol!). My mind started creating a story and characters out of nowhere. I ran with it! I was so desperate to get my mind on a different track, and I’ve been creating stories ever since. Every single story has a special place in my heart, and that’s what I love sharing with readers.

How Shantal Relaxes:

You’re all going to laugh at me for this because I don’t unwind very well. And here I spend all this time reading and writing. Lol! I guess it’s due to my nature, but I have to work hard physically in order to relax. I have a lovely garden. It’s SO much work, especially in the spring. If I come in from outside completely wiped out, that’s when I can relax enough to read.

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Title: Christmas With the Cowboy
Series: A Cowboys and Tiaras Romance, Book 2
Author: Shantal Sessions
Genre: Small Town, Second Chance Christmas Romance

A British cowboy bachelor, the rodeo queen he’s been crushing on, and fateful family entanglements threatening to keep them apart…

Blurb: While visiting his former Oxford flat mate, British bachelor James Davenport falls in love not only with the small town of Primrose, CO, but with rodeo queen Isabelle Pomeroy. But a family crisis sends James scuttling back across the pond leaving Isabelle without an explanation.

Isabelle Pomeroy spent the last year touring the state as Miss Rodeo Colorado, and comes darn close to winning Miss Rodeo America. But her tenure is over and she’s anxious to come home to her family for Christmas. Helping at her family’s ranch is a welcome distraction from the heartache left by a handsome Brit who left without so much as saying goodbye.

Without warning, James returns, working hard to become a true-blue cowboy and anxious to win her back. Isabelle is determined to avoid another heartbreak, but it seems a tall order amidst her small town’s festive traditions and everyone brimming with holiday spirit.

Will James weave some Christmas magic and convince Isabelle of what’s truly in his heart? Will Isabelle allow herself to heal, so they can finally forge a real relationship?

Christmas with the Cowboy is a heartwarming second chance romance bursting with Christmas magic, charming holiday traditions, and an emotionally satisfying happily-ever-after.

**On Sale Now! Get it fast before the price goes up!**

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“Hey, everybody! I’m home,” Isabelle hollered into the quiet of the house, and shrugged out of her coat, putting it and her hat and gloves on hooks near the front door.

Gracie flew out of the kitchen with her phone in her hand, a look of earnest relief on her face. “You have no idea how worried we all are were until James finally texted.” She pulled Isabelle into the tightest hug she could remember.

“I know. I’m sorry. He kept trying, but service was super sketchy.” Then she looked intently into Gracie’s eyes and asked, “Did you really think I was in danger?”

 “Well, no.” Gracie grinned. “But it was one heck of a storm. So, uh, I guess Will put you up for the night?”

“That’s one way to put it.” Isabelle shot her a mischievous smile. “I curled up on the couch with James.”

“No way,” Gracie whispered in shock, her eyes widening. “Did he kiss you?”

“Oh, yeah.” Isabelle nodded once giddily, and winked.

“Sparks?” Gracie arched a brow.

“Massive explosions.” Isabelle raised her hands to her head and mimicked a volcano erupting.

“What’s that?” Gracie pointed at her neck, trying to suppress a smile.

“What’s what?” Isabelle asked, confused as she probed the area just above her collarbone. A sudden memory came back, one of James lingering a little too long in that spot, and she blushed.

Gracie convulsed with oncoming laughter, stifling the “pfft” sound by covering her mouth. “I’m happy for you,” she tittered. A sweet, genuine smile warmed her face. “What happens now?” she asked, plopping on the couch.

“What do you mean?” Isabelle asked with a shrug and joined her.

“Well, are you going to keep seeing each other, or is it a thing you two want to keep on the down-low for a while?”

Isabelle snorted. “The ranch hands woke us up, so that’s not really possible.”

Gracie clapped a hand over her mouth trying to contain another giggle.

Gracie’s laughter was always contagious, and Isabelle pressed her lips together, trying to suppress her own bubble of laughter. “Are you snickering at me?”

“Not yet.” Gracie then pinched her nose, but not before accidentally exuding a tiny snort. “I’m trying to imagine the looks on the faces of all those guys. What did they say?”

“Nothing, they just stood there gawking. It was the silliest thing ever. And James…” she paused, remembering his expression. “He looked so proud of himself.” Isabelle bit her lip on a laugh and shook her head.

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Title: Caught by the Cowboy
Series: A Cowboys and Tiaras Romance, Book 1
Author: Shantal Sessions
Genre: Small Town, Second Chance Christmas Romance

A disillusioned rancher, a runaway rodeo queen, and two old flames who could burn them both…

Blurb: After his father lost their ranch in a high-stakes poker game, Will Hawkins fought for his job as general manager at the Hayfork River Ranch. With his inheritance now in the hands of a California billionaire, he’s determined to make sure it doesn’t get developed into luxury ranchettes and shopping centers. And try to forget about the woman who betrayed him and broke his heart.

Emmy Jo Jackson is hiding from her ex-fiancé and a raging social media storm. As a rodeo queen vying for the state title, it’s only a matter of time before he finds her and tries to take revenge. She seeks refuge in the Hayfork River Canyon where she hopes the beautiful vistas and wide-open spaces will allow her a chance to steel her resolve and train at the ranch for her upcoming pageant.

Will is resigned to his life and bent on not getting distracted by another pretty heartbreaker. Emmy Jo is determined not to let a grumpy cowboy who’s easy on the eyes derail her from chasing her dream. Except spending time together on the ranch weakens their defenses, like a rail fence coming undone, and pretty soon they’re both questioning their previous notions. When their pasts come-a-calling, can Emmy Jo and Will round-up the lies and see them for what they are? Or will the love that blossomed on the ranch be lost forever?

Download Caught by the Cowboy today and get roped into this sweet and clean, grumpy/sunshine romance, breathtaking scenery, and an unforgettable cowboy guaranteed to make you swoon.

Praise for Shantal Sessions–

“Caught by the Cowboy combines the charm of a rodeo queen, Emmy Jo, with the rugged allure of Will Hawkins, a ranch manager who should have been the heir. Both have their guard up, but the chemistry between them is electric as they move from antagonists to swoony kisses. The wit and banter as Emmy Jo and Will challenge each other leads to some hilarious outcomes.The author includes a gorgeous ranch that I’d like to go visit, as well as authentic rodeo details. Add their despicable exes causing more havoc, and you’ve got a book you can’t put down. Recommended.”
~Jen Peters, award-winning author (Black Rock Ranch series)

“Sessions does a great job of pulling the reader into life on the ranch and shows the dedication it takes to become a rodeo queen. Caught by the Cowboy is a captivating, authentic, small-town romance that will keep readers turning pages well past their bedtime.” ~Jill Burrell, Author of the Best-selling Finding Providence Series

“Caught by the Cowboy is everything a sweet romance should be–complete with vivid characters, flirty banter, and sizzling chemistry.” ~USA Today Best-selling Author Kimberly Krey (Sweet Montana Bride Series)

“The chemistry between Will and Emmy Jo is palpable, as their blossoming relationship forms the heart of the story. The author expertly crafts scenes that are laden with tension, emotion, and a genuine sense of connection, captivating readers and drawing them into the characters’ lives.” ~USA Today Best-selling and award-winning author Donna K. Weaver

**Get it FREE for a limited time!!**

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“If this relationship makes no sense at all,” he said, achingly soft and sweet, touching her tenderly under her chin to meet his gaze. His expression was raw and uncertain. “Then why do I want to kiss you so much?”

Her heart suddenly skittered out of control as warmth surged through her veins. “I just have that effect on people.” She teased him because she couldn’t begin to express how his words affected her. 

“Lucky is the man who has the pleasure of getting to know you.” Will’s voice was rough and low as he threaded his hand under her braid and placed it on her neck, pulling her close. Emmy Jo could feel his breath on her lips. He looked down at their hands, his finger brushing her palm. It sent a thrill racing through her system that she could hardly contain. The world stopped.

“And kiss you…”

Emmy Jo could barely stand the anticipation as she waited for him to close the miniscule gap between his lips and hers. In all her life, she’d never wanted anyone to kiss her more than she did at that moment, grumpy cowboy or not. Something more claimed her attention within the mists of desire: She wanted a world where they could be together. And just as surely, she felt her heart wrench apart at the realization. It was never going to happen. Too much kept them apart. But his lips were so close, and she couldn’t wait to feel their softness as his masculine scent overwhelmed her; sage, sandalwood, and something astringent she quite couldn’t place. Maybe citrus. Just a breath away now. It was going to happen, even if they’d probably never see each other again.

“Oh, you’ve got to be kidding me!” A familiar voice carried across the clearing. 

Startled, Emmy Jo and Will jerked apart, and tried to act like they hadn’t been in the throes of almost kissing. Clint and Cole had stumbled into the area on their way back from fishing, flashlights aimed right at them.

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Shantal is hopelessly romantic. She adores writing ALL THE FEELS right up to the first kiss and beyond saying, “I do.” She is a multi-genre sweet romance author who engages in her two great passions: reading and writing heart-soaring romance, charming characters with chemistry, and scintillating kisses that will steal your breath away. Originally drawn to writing young adult Medieval romance, she’s since written contemporary romance, all sweet and clean.

Happily living in a love story all her own, she lives in Utah with her husband, near her two married sons and amazing daughters-in-law, and her two granddaughters. Shantal loves the great outdoors and can be found gardening in summer and skiing in winter. She’ll come inside to hunker down for a Jane Austen book or film (or romance, romcom, and costume drama), and to make the most delectable pumpkin chocolate chip cookies on the planet.

Follow Shantal:  Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Bookbub | Amazon | Goodreads

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