Racing Christmas

by Shanna Hatfield

  I have to tell you the story that inspired the mouse.

  I was at a conference in Arizona. It was hot. I was tired and thirsty and wanted to go sit in front of the vent in my room and pretend I was somewhere about twenty-degrees cooler. On my way to do exactly that, I stopped at the hotel’s gift shop that carried snacks and cold beverages and loaded up on water bottles and a few little trinkets to bring home.

  As the girl at the cash register rang up my purchases, I noticed the cutest little mouse with the biggest ears sitting on a shelf about a foot away from me. It was adorable, and so lifelike. I handed the girl my credit card and she ran it while I continued studying the cute little mouse that would have made a wonderful tree ornament. Then it blinked.

  Not wanting to scream at the top of my lungs in the swanky hotel, I took my credit card from the girl and pointed to the mouse. “Is that supposed to be there?” I asked, thinking maybe it was a pet mouse, since I’d never seen one like it before.

  “What? Where?” she asked and leaned over the counter. The mouse turned and looked at her, wiggling his long whiskers. She released a blood-curdling scream I’m sure could be heard from the gift shop all the way to the top floor of the hotel.

  Frightened, or perhaps knowing he’d been busted, the mouse leaped onto a row of packaged peanuts, charged across candy bars, and scurried under the counter. The girl behind it launched herself upward, screaming while dialing hotel security.

  I signed the receipt, gathered my unbagged purchases, and left while she continued screaming and shouting at security to come do something about the mouse.

  How could I not include the mouse in a story?

  You can thank my awesome friend Melanie and her sweet daughter for the idea for the name S’mores for Dani’s pony. Melanie possesses a unique and skillful talent at crocheting. She can make the most adorable crocheted animals. And to my delighted surprise, she sent me a horse she’d created that her daughter named S’mores. He’s my little mascot, sitting on top of the speakers on my desk.

  Remember the scene where Brylee and Shaun are both grossed out by kids eating cereal off the floor in the doctor’s office. That actually happened! I was sitting in the waiting room and a young woman with two children was there, flipping through one magazine after another while the kids screamed and yelled and fought their way over and around the other patients. When they got into a tug-of-war over a bag of cereal and ripped it open, they dropped down and started eating it like wild animals off the floor. All I could think of was the disgusting things they were no doubt picking up right along with their fruity loops.

  One year when Captain Cavedweller and I attended the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, his parents went along with us. We took them around town, showing them some of the most popular “tourist” attractions. After dinner one evening, we decided to stroll through the Grand Canal Shoppes. CC’s mom and I were walking along, talking about the stores and decorations when we happened upon a life-sized marble statue. It appeared so real, you could almost feel the body heat coming off it. Then my mother-in-law reached out to touch it and the statue blinked. Of course she screamed, the rest of us laughed, and the guy portraying the statue even cracked a grin. Every time we go to the Grand Canal Shoppes, I think of that moment and smile.

  After sharing this next tidbit of inspiration, CC may strangle me, so if you don’t hear from me again, that’s the reason why. Years ago, it was one of those chaotic mornings when the alarm didn’t go off and we were both in a frenzy to get ready so we wouldn’t be late for work. Crammed into our small bathroom, I’d just finished combing my hair while CC brushed his teeth. My hairspray can happened to be sitting next to his can of deodorant on the counter. In a rush, he grabbed the hairspray, sprayed it, and then got the most horrified expression on his face. He looked from the can to his armpits to me. That’s when I lost it. I started laughing so hard, I had to stagger into the bedroom and plop down on the edge of the bed because I couldn’t even stand up straight. For days, the merest thought of the look on his face made me break into spurts of laughter. Even all these years later, I still giggle whenever it comes to mind (like right now as I’m writing this). Although I didn’t switch the cans on purpose like Brylee did with Shaun, it truly was comical. (Unless you ask CC, then it wasn’t funny. At all.)

  In the story I have Jason avoiding boats because he had a bad experience out fishing. That is inspired by a fishing trip CC took with his cousin. From the stories I heard when they got back, the two of them spent most of the time hanging over the edge of the boat feeding the fish while his uncle actually caught fish.

  I love roses of any shape, size, and color. It was such fun for me to incorporate a variety of colors into this story and share their meanings. Visually, my favorite is a pale pink rose, or one with graduated pink color like the first one Shaun gave Brylee. But for meaning, there are so many of them that speak to my heart. I might have even gotten a little emotional when I wrote about Shaun bringing her the vase of red and white roses. That whole idea of him wanting them to be united going forward is so sweet. If you are a rose fan, I’d love to hear your favorite color and why you like it best.

  Without my wonderful editors and beta readers, this book would never be published. Thank you, especially, to Shauna, Leo, and Katrina for their excellent help in editing the story, to all the Hopeless Romantics who read ARC copies, and to Jill Fletcher and Tonya Lucas for making sure I had my barrel racing facts straight. Also, thank you to my Hopeless Romantics ARC readers. I so appreciate all of you!

  My deepest, heartfelt thanks to you, dear readers, for coming along for the adventure of Shaun and Brylee’s story. If you enjoyed it, I hope you’ll tell others about the Rodeo Romance series. I hope, too, that you’ll join me during the 2019 holiday season when the next book in the series releases.

  Wishing you the best and brightest of holidays!

  Thank you for reading Racing Christmas I hope you enjoyed Shaun and Brylee’s story. I’d be so appreciative if you’d share a review so other readers might discover the heart and hope shared in this series. Even a line or two is appreciated more than you can know.

  Read the rest of the books in the

  Rodeo Romance series today!

  And be sure to check out the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund and my

  Read a Book, Help a Cowboy campaign!

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  BookBub

  You're never too old to fall in love . . .

  Will two over-the-hill neighbors embrace a holiday romance?

  Sleigh Bells Ring in Romance — Rancher Jess Milne lost his wife years ago, but he’s finally ready to give love a second chance. It’s a shame the one woman in Romance who captures his interest is a prickly, wasp-tongued she-devil. She used to be one of his closest friends until he asked her out. Her vocal, vehement refusal made her thoughts on dating him crystal clear. Despite her animosity, Jess can’t help but be attracted to her fire and spirit.

  Widowed more than ten years, Doris Grundy tries to convince herself she’s content with her life. Her recently married grandson and his wife bring her joy. The ranch she’s lived on since she was a young bride gives her purpose. She’s an active member of their close-knit community. But the old coot who lives down the road continually invades her thoughts, keeping her from having any peace. Doris will be the last to admit she longs for the love and affection of her handsome neighbor.

  When the two of them are unexpectedly thrown together, will
they find a little holiday spirit and allow the love of the season to ring in their hearts?

  Turn the page for a fun preview…

  Christmas in Romance Series Book 1

  by

  USA Today Bestselling Author

  Shanna Hatfield

  “Did he see you sneak out here?” Blayne Grundy asked, peering around the edge of the barn door as he lingered in the shadows.

  Janet Moore shook her head and tugged her sweater more closely around her in the nippy November air. “No. Dad is zonked out taking a nap. He’s been exhausted since he came home from the hospital. Who would have thought the mighty Jess Milne would sleep more than a toddler after having knee replacement surgery? At least the doctor said he’s doing well and should have a normal recovery.” She stepped out of view of anyone passing by, moving closer to Blayne. “I never thought we’d resort to holding a clandestine meeting in the barn to discuss the love life, or lack thereof, of my dad and your grandmother.”

  Blayne chuckled and leaned against the wall behind him, crossing his arms over his broad chest. “Honestly, it’s never something I envisioned, either. It’s nice of you to use your vacation time to come take care of your dad while he heals. How long are you planning to stay before you fly back to Salt Lake City?”

  “Until the first of December, but then I have to get back home. By that time, Steve and the kids will either have learned how to take care of themselves or be living off pizza and take-out food while dressed in filthy clothes. I’m not convinced any of them know how to turn on the washing machine.”

  He smirked then tossed her a cocky smile. “You know I had a huge crush on you when you used to babysit me.”

  Janet nodded. “Since you followed me around like a besotted puppy, I was aware of that fact.”

  “I did no such thing,” Blayne said, scowling at the woman who had been his neighbor, babysitter, and was now a good friend.

  “You did and you know it,” Janet pinned him with a perceptive glare. “But let’s figure out what to do about Dad and your grandmother. Do you have any idea why Doris refuses to speak to him?”

  “Not a clue. She isn’t the least bit helpful when I’ve asked her why she turns all lemon-faced at the very mention of Jess.” Blayne sighed, removed his dusty cowboy hat, and forked a hand through his hair. “I’ve done everything I can think of to get those two together. It’s obvious to everyone but Jess and Grams that they should fall in love.”

  “The problem is that they are both too stubborn and opinionated to admit they like each other. We’ll just have to get creative.” Janet plopped down on a bale of straw. When one of the ranch dogs wandered inside, she absently reached down and rubbed behind his ears. She glanced up at Blayne. “What does your wife think about all this?”

  “Brooke is all for whatever makes Grams happy, and Jess, too. She and your dad get along like old friends.”

  “I’m glad to hear that. Brooke is fantastic, Blayne. You couldn’t have found a better girl to marry.”

  Blayne’s face softened at the mention of his wife. “She is pretty special.”

  Janet remained silent for several moments, lost in thought, before she looked up at Blayne with a confident smile. “What if I suddenly had to return home and no one else could stay with Dad? Could you persuade Doris to take care of him until he’s back on his feet? If they had to see each other every day for two or three weeks, maybe they’d get past whatever it is that’s keeping them apart.”

  A slow, pleased grin spread across Blayne’s face. “I think, with enough guilt, it might work. I can remind Grams of the number of times she’s lectured me about it being not just a duty, but an honor and privilege to help take care of our friends and neighbors in times of need.”

  “Perfect! I’ll see if I can get on a flight tomorrow. If not, the next day at the latest. Steve is going to be thrilled at this bit of news.” Janet hopped up and tugged her cell phone from her pocket. “I just hope our plan works. Doris and Dad have too many good years left for them to spend them alone.”

  “Especially when they clearly would like to be together.” Blayne pushed away from the wall. “With a little holiday magic, anything is possible.”

  Janet nodded in agreement. “It certainly is…”

  Find out what happens in

  Sleigh Bells Ring in Romance,

  part of the Christmas in Romance series,

  available now on Amazon!

  Rodeo Romance Series

  Hunky rodeo cowboys tangle with independent sassy women who can’t help but love them.

  The Christmas Cowboy (Book 1) — Among the top saddle bronc riders in the rodeo circuit, easy-going Tate Morgan can master the toughest horse out there, but trying to handle beautiful Kenzie Beckett is a completely different story.

  Wrestlin’ Christmas (Book 2) — Sidelined with a major injury, steer wrestler Cort McGraw struggles to come to terms with the end of his career. Shanghaied by his sister and best friend, he finds himself on a run-down ranch with a worrisome, albeit gorgeous widow, and her silent, solemn son.

  Capturing Christmas (Book 3) — Life is hectic on a good day for rodeo stock contractor Kash Kressley. Between dodging flying hooves and babying cranky bulls, he barely has time to sleep. The last thing Kash needs is the entanglement of a sweet romance, especially with a woman as full of fire and sass as Celia McGraw.

  Barreling Through Christmas (Book 4) — Cooper James might be a lot of things, but beefcake model wasn’t something he intended to add to his resume.

  Chasing Christmas (Book 5) — Tired of his cousin's publicity stunts on his behalf, bull rider Chase Jarrett has no idea how he ended up with an accidental bride!

  Racing Christmas (Book 6) — Brylee Barton is racing to save her family’s ranch. Shaun Price is struggling to win her heart. . . again.

  Books by Shanna Hatfield

  FICTION

  HISTORICAL

  Baker City Brides

  Tad’s Treasure

  Crumpets and Cowpies

  Thimbles and Thistles

  Corsets and Cuffs

  Bobbins and Boots

  Lightning and Lawmen

  Pendleton Petticoats

  Dacey

  Aundy

  Caterina

  Ilsa

  Marnie

  Lacy

  Bertie

  Millie

  Dally

  Quinn

  Hearts of the War

  Garden of Her Heart

  Home of Her Heart

  Dream of Her Heart

  Hardman Holidays

  The Christmas Bargain

  The Christmas Token

  The Christmas Calamity

  The Christmas Vow

  The Christmas Quandary

  The Christmas Confection

  CONTEMPORARY

  Learnin’ The Ropes

  Love at the 20-Yard Line

  QR Code Killer

  Rose

  Saving Mistletoe

  Taste of Tara

  Grass Valley Cowboys

  The Cowboy’s Christmas Plan

  The Cowboy’s Spring Romance

  The Cowboy’s Summer Love

  The Cowboy’s Autumn Fall

  The Cowboy’s New Heart

  The Cowboy’s Last Goodbye

  Holiday Brides

  Valentine Bride

  Summer Bride

  Rodeo Romance

  The Christmas Cowboy

  Wrestlin’ Christmas

  Capturing Christmas

  Barreling Through Christmas

  Chasing Christmas

  Racing Christmas

  Silverton Sweethearts

  The Coffee Girl

  The Christmas Crusade

  Untangling Christmas

  Welcome to Romance

  Blown Into Romance

  Sleigh Bells Ring in Romance

  The Women of Tenacity

  A Prelude (Short Story)

  Heart of Clay

 
; Country Boy vs. City Girl

  Not His Type

  CHILDREN’S BOOKS

  Steve the Mule

  NONFICTION

  Farm Girl

  Fifty Dates with Captain Cavedweller

  Recipes of Love

  Savvy Entertaining

  Savvy Autumn Entertaining

  Savvy Holiday Entertaining

  Savvy Spring Entertaining

  Savvy Summer Entertaining

  About the Author

  Hopeless romantic Shanna Hatfield spent ten years as a newspaper journalist before moving into the field of marketing and public relations. Sharing the romantic stories she dreams up in her head is a perfect outlet for her love of writing, reading, and creativity. She and her husband, lovingly referred to as Captain Cavedweller, reside in the Northwest.

  Shanna loves to hear from readers.

  Connect with her online:

  Blog: shannahatfield.com

  Facebook: Shanna Hatfield’s Page

  Shanna Hatfield’s Hopeless Romantics Group

  Pinterest: Shanna Hatfield

  Email: shanna@shannahatfield.com

  Check out the Racing Christmas Pinterest board to see the images that helped inspire the story!