WHAT'S NEW?

EMAIL NEWSLETTER:

       I know it's been a while since you've received an emailed newsletter from me, but I hope to get one out to you soon! Just a reminder, if you are NOT on the list for my emailed newsletter, you can Email me to subscribe to my E-Newsletter!!

    Email me to subscribe to my E-Newsletter!   

COMING SOON: CHASE THE SUN

First published by Bantam in September 1995 and soon to be reissued in both print and Kindle format by Amazon!

"A STORY OF LOVE … A STORY OF WAR … A STORY OF PEACE"

       "Zack Myers holds a fierce need for revenge against Native Americans after the Sioux killed his entire family in the Minnesota raids when he was just a boy. He joins the army purposely to fight Indians - ANY Indians.

       "Iris Gray is a colonel's daughter, who joins her father in America's Northwest Territory and tries to bring peace between settlers and the Nez Perce Nation.

       "Circumstances bring Iris and Zack together in a memorable love story as Iris struggles to help Zack find peace in his own heart. An unlikely friendship forms between these two and a Nez Perce warrior, Strong Runner, and his wife, Morning Star, teaching all four characters about cultural tolerance.

       "CHASE THE SUN is the true story of the last flight of the Nez Perce to Canada in 1876, and a stunning depiction of the reasons for war and misunderstandings in a land deeply torn by its own unstoppable growth. A memorable tale of real history, abiding love, and a Nation's unique struggle through tragedy and triumph."

"The author's understanding of Indian culture and her sympathy with their struggle for survival and fair treatment is evident throughout." -- Publisher's Weekly (of the original printing)

LOGAN'S LADY Is Here!

Two worlds in conflict
Two hearts intertwined
One love worth fighting for

       Wealthy Englishwoman Lady Elizabeth Baylor longs for adventure. She leaves for America full of hope, only to lose everything to a villain hiding treachery behind his smile. Lost in this strange and lawless land, Elizabeth vows to track down the man who did her wrong…but she can’t do it alone. What she needs is someone hardened by the west and unflinching toward its dangers: notorious bounty hunter Logan Best.

        Ill-mannered and seemingly ruthless, Logan exorcises his dark past by throwing himself into his vengeful profession—hunting wanted men. There’s nothing about the pampered Englishwoman that should call to him, and yet as their adventure takes them across the wild and treacherous west, he realizes he’ll do anything to keep her safe…and defend his Lady to his final breath.

"Lady Elizabeth Baylor wants a new life away from her domineering older brother, so why not hop across the pond to America's Wild West, which she's read about in her penny dreadfuls? Armed with her substantial inheritance and many jewels, she starts making her way toward Denver. When tragedy falls, she puts her faith in the wrong man and ends up penniless and imperiled. She has no choice but to unite with notorious bounty hunter Logan Best. As they trek across the treacherous landscape to get back what is rightfully hers, she discovers that underneath Logan’s hardened shell is a caring and honest man. Although nothing is going as expected, maybe fate is bringing her exactly the man she needs. This immersive romance set in the lawless Old West is packed with action and adventure, including murder. Bittner (The Last Outlaw, 2017) has created an unlikely couple worth cheering for, and she sure knows how to keep readers on the edge of their seats. " - Jenna Friebel, Booklist

"Bittner (The Last Outlaw) beautifully evokes the beauty and hardships of life in the late-19th-century American West as a British aristocrat falls for a hardened bounty hunter in this spellbinding historical. Lady Elizabeth Baylor and her brother, William, travel across the Atlantic with plans to settle in Denver, Colo. They are befriended by Sir Robert Alexander during the crossing, and after William falls overboard and drowns, Robert agrees to accompany Elizabeth to Denver. En route, Elizabeth learns that Robert has entrusted someone else with her jewels and money, and he tries to rape her. She shoots him and is left to fend for herself in Abilene, Kans., where the sheriff arrests her for Robert’s murder. Logan Best, a handsome, well-known bounty hunter, is searching for Robert, and when he learns Elizabeth’s story, he convinces the sheriff to release her, certain that she acted in self-defense. Elizabeth hires Logan to help track down her valuables, and insists on accompanying him. The witty banter between Logan and Elizabeth adds allure to their relationship, and as she adapts to life on the trail, he admires her beauty and tenacity. Bittner makes an implausible premise feel absolutely real, showing how two very different characters can make compromises and find love. Fast-paced, touching, and sensual, this historical is not to be missed." -- Publisher's Weekly Starred Review

"Logan’s Lady is beautifully written with all the drama of the western frontier [Rosanne Bittner's] fans have come to expect. Logan and Lady Elizabeth swept me away with their verbal sparring and comical banter. The magnetic pull between them had me falling in love with these characters. . . . Their love for one another is what we all long to find in our own lives. Deception, heartache, and the will to survive out on the unforgiven open trail made this an exceptional western. A beautiful story of never giving up on your freedom to live your dream. 5 stars!!!!!!" -- Tonya Lucas 2/16/2019

"I just want you to know that my husband has just finished reading [LOGAN'S LADY] also and he absolutely loved it. We both hope you are writing a sequel to this wonderful book." -- Barbara Klinman

"Loved this story!!! I would love to see you continue Logan and Elizabeth 's story with a sequel! Please consider it! This was the first book I read written by you and can't wait to get my hands on more that you have written. Thanks for the great read!" -- Sue Ziegler

        LOGAN’S LADY is a dramatic but often humorous story about an uneducated, rough and tumble American bounty hunter (Logan Best), who ends up coming to the rescue of prim and proper, highly educated “Lady” Elizabeth Bennett from London, England. These two are as opposite as two could be, but an unexpected attraction between them grows into something neither can resist, while at the same time they track down ruthless men who have absconded with Lady Elizabeth’s money and personal valuables.

       My Sourcebooks editor's reaction to the manuscript was, "I worked on this with a junior editor, and we were both blown away. Your books are always such a joy to read, and this is no exception." Music to my ears!

    Order LOGAN'S LADY   

More Summer Reading:

       While you are waiting for my next new book to come out, you might enjoy reading TAMING HUCK FINN, from my friend E. E. Burke. She is an excellent writer who knows her history. I admire her vivid descriptions, and her western books are great! TAMING HUCK FINN is a very different kind of story, but for anyone who liked Mark Twain’s classic stories of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, TAMING HUCK FINN is a wonderful follow-up. The book is very special to Elizabeth, and I’m glad she has found a way to keep Mark Twain’s classics alive for us. TAMING HUCK FINN earned some great reader comments, most of them 4 ½ stars! By the way, you can order it from Amazon By the way, you can order it from Amazon here!

COMING IN 2019: TWO MORE REISSUES!

        Good news: there will be two more of my older books reissued by Amazon in 2019: TEXAS EMBRACE, originally published by Zebra in 1997; and TEXAS PASSIONS, sequel to TEXAS EMBRACE, originally publisehd by Zebra in 1999. Here are more great new covers from Lisa Messegee of The Write Designers. I'll let you know the publication dates as soon as I have them!

NOW AVAILABLE: EMBERS OF THE HEART

       In a land divided, she was torn between duty and desire...

       "In the aftermath of America’s bloody Civil War, young Anna Kelley waits for her husband, Darryl, to come home. When he finally returns, he is a changed man who no longer loves her and has become cruel and unforgiving because of his war experiences. Anna decides that, for her own safety, she needs to get away from Darryl. She flees, and she ends up in the wild cow town of Abilene, Kansas, run by Sheriff Nate Foster.

       "Fate draws Nate and Anna closer, but Anna, who desperately longs for the safety and love she finds in Nate’s arms, has not told him she has a husband who is now a dangerous outlaw. Nate and Anna’s love grows beyond their ability to corral the passion and desire stirred in their souls, but Anna’s secret finally comes back to haunt her and nearly destroys the love she has found in Nate’s arms. Nate’s own anger and loss because of the war interfere with his ability to fully love and trust again, and when he finds out about Anna’s lie, he isn’t sure he can fully commit to her.

       "EMBERS OF THE HEART embraces the heartaches and challenges of a Nation torn by war, and those caught up both sides of that war. A “must read,” this book is a “sister story” to MONTANA WOMAN (see below), as Anna (from EMBERS OF THE HEART) and Joline (from MONTANA WOMAN) are sisters who ended up separated by the Civil War."

WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT EMBERS OF THE HEART:

"This story had me at hello. I have to admit Anna is an extremely strong, independent, and loving woman. Be prepared to have kleenex for the end of the book. The accuracy of the victims of war was well researched. While this story is within the civil war era, please think of our vets who come have home with their problems. Rosanne Bittner did an excellent job in telling this in this book. Definately a must read." -- Dawn Baffa, via Amazon.com

"EMBERS OF THE HEART is a beautifully epic and emotional read from the first page to the last! Be prepared for a roller-coaster ride of feelings when you dive into this story. Besides delivering an enduring love story, it also teaches the power of love, acceptance, and forgiveness; how evil and hate can burn and destroy a person; and how the consequences and waves of war can continue to ripple and destroy long after the last bullet is fired. . . . Anna is a young woman who's struggling with facing how the rumblings of war affect her family, and ultimately the loss of her first husband. . . . Nate is exactly the honorable, devoted, strong hero Anna needs in her life. . . . Even the secondary characters pull at you in ways - not always good, and not always bad... but they're not exempt from giving you moments to pause, think, and feel. . . .This is probably one of my favorite Rosanne Bittner stories -- where it holds you captive from beginning to end, and gifts you with so much more than a romantic tale, but nuggets of empathy and true love. This is not a book to skip over!" -- Michelle Reed

    Order EMBERS OF THE HEART (e-book)      Order New Paperback Edition   

NOW AVAILABLE: MONTANA WOMAN

A NATION DIVIDED/ ONE WOMAN’S UNBRIDLED SPIRIT

       "A Civil War widow, young Joline Masters leaves “bleeding” Kansas for Montana to settle under the Homestead Act. Mountain man Clint Reeves knows Montana well, having lost a wife and child there to an Indian attack. He has come home to Kansas, but his father-in-law and others blame him for his wife’s and he child’s deaths. Chance brings Clint and Joline together, and, feeling unwanted in Kansas, Clint agrees to take Joline to Montana.

       "Clint and Joline are both brave, strong-willed people who balance off each other’s strengths and courage, both of which are uniquely tested by the challenges of a lawless land filled with outlaws and Indians. As they help each other forge a new future, passion and desire become part of their determination to succeed in a new land. Through hardship and danger, two broken hearts become one full heart. Together Jo and Clint tame the savage land and learn to live with past tragedies to form new joys and a life shared as one."

    Order MONTANA WOMAN   

DOWNLOAD MY NEWSLETTER IN PDF!

       Many of you have told me that you have made your own copies of my older print newsletters and have left them at libraries, bookstores, or even in your company break rooms! I thought I'd make it easier for you to print and share my latest newsletter by making it available in pdf format right here on my website. So, click on the link below and take a look at what's new, along with recent and upcoming book covers, in a handy, double-sided trifold brocure format!

    PRINT My Latest Newsletter!   

NOW AVAILABLE: SONG OF THE WOLF

       "Born to be a Holy Woman among the Cheyenne, Medicine Wolf’s life as a young child is saved by a pack of wolves that keeps her from freezing to death. From then on, wolves are her guiding spirit and her protector. As she grows into womanhood, Medicine Wolf is forced to live among whites for one year, in an effort to learn the way of the white man. But her heart and soul and her very life belong to the Cheyenne … and to the young warrior with whom she fell in love as a child.

       "Bear Paw, an honored Cheyenne dog soldier, risks life and limb to win the hand of Cheyenne Holy Woman, Medicine Wolf. Once their union is secured, Bear Paw and Medicine Wolf venture into a love story set against the magnificent days of freedom for the Cheyenne, but Medicine Wolf’s powers as a Holy Woman present a challenge to Bear Paw’s pride and reputation that threatens to tear them apart. White settlement encroaches upon the Cheyenne, forcing them into wars to keep what they feel belongs to them, and through it all, one white man, Tom Prescott, who fell in love with Medicine Wolf when she lived among the whites, must watch Medicine Wolf from a distance, aware she can never belong to him.

       "SONG OF THE WOLF is packed with the real history of the Cheyenne. The ending of this book is heart-wrenching, yet gloriously uplifting, as the spirit of the wolf and the powers of two timeless, unforgettable people step into history. Well researched, this is Rosanne Bittner at her best as she eloquently tells the true story of a proud Native American Nation."

    Order SONG OF THE WOLF    

COMING 24 SEPTEMBER 2019: CHRISTMAS IN PARADISE in the LONGING FOR A COWBOY CHRISTMASAnthology

       My short story CHRISTMAS IN PARADISE, in the Sourcebooks Christmas anthology LONGING FOR A COWBOY CHRISTMAS, will be released on 24 September, and you can already pre-order on Amazon.com! CHRISTMAS IN PARADISEis about Sage and Maggie (Tucker) Lightfoot and the Paradise Valley ranch (from my book PARADISE VALLEY). That story ended with Maggie carrying a child whose father is unknown. The baby is the product of something that happened to Maggie in PARADISE VALLEY, and CHRISTMAS IN PARADISE will satisfy all those readers who want to know what happened with that baby. It has a beautiful “miracle” ending that is perfect for a Christmas story.

        CHRISTMAS IN PARADISE is one of six sweeping, epic tales of heroism, passion, family and celebration. Other authors featured in LONGING FOR A COWBOY CHRISTMAS are Leigh Greenwood, Linda Broday, Margaret Brownley, Anna Schmidt, and Amy Sandas. "Whether it's a widower finding an unexpected new start, a former outlaw and his new wife welcoming their very own Christmas miracle, a long-lost lover returning just in time for a special holiday celebration, a second chance at love between two warring hearts given peace at last, an unlikely pair working together to bring joy to a small Texas town, or a cowboy and his dark-eyed beauty snowed in one unforgettable wintry eve...every Christmas with a cowboy is filled with light, laughter, and a forever kind of love."

    Pre-order LONGING FOR A COWBOY CHRISTMAS      More about PARADISE VALLEY    

COMING 26 NOVEMBER 2019: RIDE THE HIGH LONESOME!

       HUGE NEWS: my first of three "Men of the Outlaw Trail" stories. RIDE THE HIGH LONESOME, will be available on 26 November 2019!!!!   Each book will be a single title with new hero and heroine, with each story touching on other characters I've written about who "visited" the Outlaw Trail!

A man bent on revenge.
A woman determined to survive.
A land that knows no mercy.
Meet the Men of the Outlaw Trail.

       When Kate Winters is left stranded and defenseless in outlaw country, she knows there’s little chance she’ll make it out alive…until she stumbles across a ruthless gang hanging a cowboy for his cattle. She waits until the outlaws are gone, desperate enough to claim the dead man’s horse to make her escape – only to realize he’s not dead after all.

       Those outlaws should have made damn sure Luke Bowden was good and gone. Now he vows he’ll have his revenge no matter the cost. But they’re miles away from the nearest town, and the woman who saved his hide won’t survive the ride back. He owes her his life – he owes her everything – and it doesn’t take long before he’s faced with a terrible choice: stand by Kate … or claim his revenge?

        RIDE THE HIGH LONESOME is so named because of how huge outlaw trail country is -- the big, BIG country of western Wyoming. The story opens with Kate Winters lost and alone in western Wyoming after an Indian attack on her wagon train. She comes upon a gang of men who are putting a noose around a man's neck. Because she's in outlaw country, Kate is afraid to let the men see her, so she hides and watches in horror as the man is hanged and his hangmen ride off with the dead man's cattle and pack horse.

       Is he dangerous? Did he deserve to die? Kate's actions lead to an unforgettable love story set against the magnificent "high and lonesome" outlaw country along the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, where lawmen never go, and where no stranger can be trusted. And watch for a "cameo" appearance by Jake Harkner (from my Outlaw Hearts series) in this story!

        RIDE THE HIGH LONESOME is now available for pre-order mass-market paperback and ebook format!

    Pre-Order from Amazon.com!   

COMING IN 2020: THE LAWLESS BREED!

       Just finished THE LAWLESS BREED, my second Outlaw Trail book! After the Civil War took her father and her husband, Ashley Zent believes she is doomed to a life of unhappiness in Gainesville, Texas. When wanted man Nick de Santos rides into her life and into her heart after a five-year absence, her plans for her future are forever changed in completely unexpected ways. This book will be published in 2020 (no cover yet).

       The story begins with the heroine, Ashley, coming home to find her mother murdered. She runs outside to saddle a horse to ride into town and report the murder – and - lo and behold - she sees someone riding up the path to her house. She freezes in place, realizing she doesn’t have any kind of weapon with her. Is the man riding toward her the murderer?

       When he gets closer, she realizes, in near shock, that the rider is Nick, a man she hasn’t seen for five years – a man she once loved but who rode out of her life after a terrible tragedy that tore them apart. She’s heard that after taking part in the Civil War, this man turned to an outlaw life. He might even be wanted. She thought she would never see him again, yet here he is, riding right back into her life at this devastating, confusing moment. And then what happens? Why has Nick ridden back into Ashley's life? These two will collide in more ways than one, but Ashley will find a way to tame him – and to make sure he never rides out of her life again. I am having so much fun writing these books, and I guarantee, you are going to have as much fun reading them and anticipating which old friends you will be meeting up with again!

JOIN MY "STREET TEAM":

       Love my books? Then I’m inviting you to be a member of my Heart of the West Street Team Facebook Group to spread the word. The best sell is always personal recommendations. Please tell or email friends about my books. You never know who goes home at night and curls up with a good book that was recommended by YOU!

        As a member of my street team, you can join in discussions with me about what's coming next, or questions I will have for you to help me with my writing. For instance, I am considering writing several sequels, so I'm currently asking members for which older book THEY would like to see a sequel. (I'm already considering UNTIL TOMORROW and TAME THE WILD WIND.) I would also like to write an 8th book to the SAVAGE DESTINY series. If you've read #7 (EAGLE'S SONG), which character from that book would you like me to write about?

       If you are not a Facebook member, you can still email me your comments! I really appreciate your support!

    Join My Heart of the West Street Team!      Email me   

New in 2018: A WARRIOR'S PROMISE

     It's here! You can order A WARRIOR'S PROMISE(sequel to CAPTURE MY HEART) in either Kindle format or trade paperback, and begin reading it TODAY!!! (If you haven't yet read CAPTURE MY HEART, click here for more information!)

       I can tell you that you are going to love A WARRIOR'S PROMISE, a touching story involving the infamous Sand Creek Massacre in southern Colorado. It took me a while to get "into" a hero other than my Jake, but I do love Two Wolves!

    Kindle      Trade Paperback   

"Bittner's sequel to CAPTURE MY HEART - the saga of Two Wolves and his wife, Claire - brings the scenery and time to life as our heroes are caught in the horrors of the American Indian Wars. Bittner's fans will discover another powerfully told story, brimming over with historical events and Native American culture that is as thought provoking and dramatic as it is romantic. The Queen of Western Romance doesn't disappoint with another heartfelt, compassionate and exciting story of a man torn between two lives and the woman who stands by him with a love that defies hatred and injustice." --Kathe Robin, Romantic Times

     Claire Matthews is carrying the child of Cheyenne half-breed, Two Wolves, who promised in marriage to live his life in the white world under the name his white mother gave him – Peter James Matthews. Peter is educated and can conduct himself as white; however, Claire understands that deep in his heart, her husband is very Indian.

      In the prequel to this story (CAPTURE MY HEART), it was the “Indian” Two Wolves, a scout for the U. S. Army, who rescued Claire from a fate worse than death and who saved her life more than once in a flight from those who would harm them. Now, as a married couple running a supply business near Fort Collins, Colorado, a restless hatred from Colorado citizens and the Colorado Militia toward the Cheyenne threatens to tear Peter and Claire apart.

     Peter adores and respects Claire’s strength in standing up for the man she loves against those who would condemn her for loving an Indian. He has promised Claire always to be by her side and help her run their business … until the United States Army asks him to accept another scouting mission. Because he thinks it will help the Cheyenne, Peter agrees, but events that follow challenge his promises to Claire.

     When Peter comes across the aftermath of the horrible Sand Creek Massacre committed the by Colorado Militia and their leader, Colonel John Chivington, his Cheyenne blood rises to the surface, and he is once again Two Wolves, a warrior who wants revenge.

      Will Two Wolves’s rage be stronger than his love for Claire and their unborn child? Only true love can hold these two together against a land torn by the changes of a growing West. Power, passion, true history and romance all make this story another winner for “The Queen of Western Romance,” Rosanne Bittner.

WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT A WARRIOR'S PROMISE:

     "To love a story you have to crawl into it and live along with the characters. This is what happens anytime I read one of Rosanne's books. What an amazing book." -- Kim, via Amazon.com

     "Once again the Queen of the Western Historical Romance Rosanne Bittner gives her readers a very vivid History lesson. Mrs Bittner has a gift pulling her readers into a book and one feels as if she/he are actually standing there with the characters experiencing the same emotions and feelings they are. . . . I dearly loved this continuation of Claire and Two Wolves' story. I would most certainly love to see a third book as Claire and Two Wolves go on and make a life in the changing West. Well done once again Rosanne Bittner A Warrior’s Promise was all I hoped and more!!!" -- Glenda Kinard

     "A WARRIOR'S PROMISE was an exceptional book detailing the horror and heartache that happened at Sand Creek and the months that followed. . . . . [This] sequel to CAPTURE MY HEARTt continues the story of Claire and Two Wolves, and their courage to live one way of life, while protecting another. A love story which will grab the readers heartstrings. . . which equally rivals her epic Savage Destiny Series." Tonya Lucas

     See below for more on CAPTURE MY HEART. If you haven't read it yet, now is the time to do it!

    Order A WARRIOR'S PROMISE      Order CAPTURE MY HEART!   

CAPTURE MY HEART:

       My new Indian romance, CAPTURE MY HEART, is now available in both Kindle and trade paperback formats from Amazon.com! I know you will love Two Wolves -- and thank you, long-time fan Barbara Christian, for helping me choose a name for the hero! Two Wolves, aka Peter James Matthews, is a half Cheyenne army scout, who is not only tall, dark, and handsome, but intelligent, educated, and respected in both of his worlds! The heroine is Claire Stewart, the red-haired, strong, determined daughter of a Denver freighting supply business owner, who inherits her father's business -- and his debts. The two team up to try to prove that so-called "Indian" attacks on wagon trains and settlers are actually the work of someone trying to keep the hatred against the Cheyenne burning hot. This whole story is filled with non-stop adventure, steamy romance, and real history!

       "Claire Stewart has inherited her father’s freighting business based in 1864 Denver, Colorado. Determined to prove she is capable of running the business on her own, Claire must compete against a wealthy businessman who wants to bring her down.

       "Two Wolves, half Cheyenne, scouts for the U. S. Army. He is determined to prove that white men have been committing raids against their own kind in order to fuel the fires of hatred of Colorado citizens against the Cheyenne. When he rescues Claire from just such an attack, he is struck by her fiery independence and youthful beauty. Most of all, he admires her brave attempt to save her father’s business and to help Two Wolves prove that her attack was by white men, led by the very businessman who is her competitor.

       "Through events that keep forcing these two together and cause Two Wolves to risk his life in Claire’s defense more than once, a bond develops that turns into a steamy attraction between a tiny, red-headed young white woman and a powerful, brave, handsome Indian warrior. This attraction leads to a hot, forbidden romance that develops into a memorable “against-all-odds” love story.

       "Set against the true history of atrocities committed by the Colorado militia against peaceful Cheyenne, CAPTURE MY HEART brings to light the struggle of the southern Cheyenne to survive amid more and more white settlement; and it shows the courage of Indians and certain brave whites alike in trying to keep the peace during one of the most difficult periods in Colorado history."

WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT CAPTURE MY HEART:

     "Rosanne Bitter continues to capture my heart with each new story she writes, and I find myself always wanting more, never wanting the story to end." -- Michelle Reed

     "Once again it is not hard to see why Rosanne Bittner is the 'Queen of the Western Historical Romance.' ... Two Wolves and Claire's story will have you weeping , laughing and constantly cheering them on for the justices they both so deserve. " -- Glenda Kinard

     "Capture My Heart is an extraordinary book of true historical events during an unsettling time in Colorado's history. ... Gripping, exhilarating, and breathtakingly beautiful. Rosanne has penned another extraordinary book." Tonya Lucas

     "I have read alot of Ms Bittner's books and this one is a keeper!! I hope there will be sequel about this family??!!! Two Wolfes and Clair are unforgettable!!" -- Nancy, via Amazon.com

    Order CAPTURE MY HEART!    

NOTE: CAPTURE MY HEART is dedicated to a faithful fan of many, many years, Barbara Christian, from California. This story came about from one simple Facebook message she sent me one day. It was just a little Native American quite and it mentioned an Indian name, Two Wolves. This is how I write. One little name or event can kick off a whole story for me. For some reason I loved that name and decided it would make a great name for a hero in an Indian/ white romance. It's been years since I wrote a Native American story, and for some reason seeing that name lit the fire. This book is the result. I was greatly saddened when Barbara passed away in 2017 -- but she did get to read the book that she had suggested. Thanks, Barbara!

A CHICK-A-DEE CHRISTMASin the CHRISTMAS IN A COWBOY'S ARMS  Anthology

       Jake Harkner is an ex-outlaw with a ruthless nature, but when it comes to his grandchildren, his heart is as big as the sky. Jake learns how to channel his anger into love and patience in this story about his sweet granddaughter, Sadie Mae, and a young man Jake helps lead away from a path of lawlessness. A life and death situation leads to a lesson in love and forgiveness in A CHICK-A-DEE CHRISTMAS.

        My Harkner family Christmas story, A CHICK- A- DEE CHRISTMAS, will be included in the CHRISTMAS IN A COWBOY'S ARMS anthology. This story will show a softer side of Jake, and will truly round out the series. Those of you who know my books also know that I am not designed to write “short” stories. I love to dig deeply into a big cast of characters, but you can’t do that with a short story. A CHICK- A- DEE CHRISTMAS will be a very sweet 150 - page story involving Jake's little granddaughter Sadie Mae. Through an "unexpected character" (ie, one that I didn't plan but who just "showed up" as I was writing), Jake is filled with the spirit of forgiveness and joy, the celebration of the birth of Christ, and the beauty of Christmas giving.

WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT A CHICK- A- DEE CHRISTMAS:

     "Just when I was feeling the blues after reading The Last Outlaw and saying good-bye to the Harkers and especially Jake, here was an exciting and gritty, but heartwarming Harker family Christmas. The Harkers go Christmas shopping, find trouble, Jake brings home an angry, bitter stray man, and then they all pray for a Christmas miracle for little Sadie Mae. This was a lovely reunion with a cast of characters I love. The spotlight on Jake and his grandchildren was just precious." -- Sophia Rose

     "This is the first time I've come across the Harkner family but reading this has made me want to continue on and read the Outlaw series.... I really enjoyed this little read and I'm looking forward to reading Jake's story from the beginning." -- Deborah

     "This is a collection of six novellas by different authors all set in the West in the 1800’s during the Christmas season. Although not usually a fan of novellas, I thoroughly enjoyed these very engaging, positive stories and was amazed at how well the characters and story lines were developed in just a few chapters. Highly recommend!" -- Nancy

     "Rosanne Bittner's story is the wrap up I was wanting. It shows the softer side of Jake. The love he has for his family, especially his grandchildren. The sense that he could help a young man, that he saw as a person just like himself at that age, where you can go bad, or take another path and do good." -- Veda

Order CHRISTMAS IN A COWBOY'S ARMS:      Amazon.com      Barnes & Noble      iBooks   

THE LAST OUTLAW

"Bittner revisits the Harkner family of Colorado ranchers in this refreshing and impressive fourth volume (after Love’s Sweet Revenge) of her 19th-century Outlaw Hearts saga. While visiting Boulder, Jake Harkner’s wife, Randy, is taken hostage by bank robbers. Jake is a former outlaw and lawman, so he takes down the robbers, but he’s shot in the crossfire. Randy fears for his life, desperate to save the husband she loves—and whom she needs to protect her, as she was assaulted by outlaws months earlier and is still traumatized by the ordeal. As Randy helps Jake recover from his wounds, she slowly regains her own strength. They return to their family ranch, where they enjoy the love and support of their children and extended family, and Jake gladly promises to retire. But when Jake receives a request to strap on his guns one last time to help an old friend save a young girl, he feels like he can’t refuse. Bittner’s skill with character development is on fine display. Jake and Randy, who began the series as a typical romantic couple, are now grandparents, yet their love continues to grow and mature as they endure trials and triumphs. Bittner has achieved what few authors can: making her fourth installment just as fresh and alluring as the first while keeping the same protagonists at the center of the story." -- Publisher's Weekly,July 2017.

"The last book in the unforgettable Outlaw Hearts series is as powerful a story as readers could want. Bittner strives to gift fans with stories of strength, undying love, family ties and a portrait of the West that sears into their hearts. The underlying power stems from her “leap off the pages” characters and a depth of emotion that touches the soul. As the country moves into a new century, Jake Harkner and his family are busy building a new life in Colorado. Even with his beloved Randy, their children and grandchildren, Jake is haunted by the past. Randy has been Jake’s rock, and now she desperately needs his strength to heal her own wounds. But the past will not rest, and Jake finds himself rescuing his family from bank robbers and becoming a reluctant hero still unable to wipe out his notorious history. Then Jake is caught up in rescuing a kidnapped girl. He must return to Mexico where he will face his demons or die, leaving his family to fight their own battles with the fear that Jake might never return." -- RT Book Reviews Top Pick -- 4 ½ stars

        "Times have changed, and the old Wild West is a thing of the past. Nestled in his beautiful Colorado ranch, surrounded by family, infamous former outlaw Jake Harkner’s hung up his guns for good and finally found a measure of peace—but dark memories haunt the woman who has always been his strength, and not even Jake is certain he can save his beloved Miranda this time.

     "All he can do is swear to remain by her side. But it takes more than a hope for peace to outrun a past defined by violence, and it isn’t long before Jake is embroiled in a rescue mission he simply can’t refuse. Life has brought him back full circle as he rides into Mexico to save a young girl from a dreadful fate…leaving Miranda behind one final time, fearing the other half of her soul is destined to die the way he’s always lived—by the gun. "

      When asked my Sourcebooks editor when I would get final edits on THE LAST OUTLAW, her reply was, "I hunted and hunted for some big flaw, but this book is so strong! It was emotional and moving and epic - what a beautiful story!" It doesn't get any better than that for a writer - and now you know you have a great story coming! I am so proud of this one. Proud of Jake. Unbelievable growth. A face-off with his ugly childhood. Such a true hero in this one (something he would never admit himself!). The story involves Peter and Jeff again - and Gretta MacBain from LOVE'S SWEET REVENGE - big time! And a whole new level of love and trust between Jake and Randy - their relationship is more beautiful than ever. A real tear-jerker ending - in a good way! I wish this book was coming out next month instead of in September!

WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT THE LAST OUTLAW:

     "Very rarely does a writer come along that touches one's heart and soul as deeply as Rosanne Bittner. There is definitely a reason she's called the Queen of the Western Historicals because she can continue to write such heart moving sagas. The Last Outlaw is such an emotionally charged book that is almost impossible to put down. Will Jake and Randy finally finally get the peace they have so desperately wanted for over 30+ years? Can Jake finally make peace and have closure with his past that has forever haunted him? One simply must read The Last Outlaw to find out. I don't believe I have ever read a book that touched me emotionally as The Last Outlaw did. The Harkners are a family that will never leave ones heart and soul!!.The touching moments Jake has with his grandchildren and in theses moments it's hard to believe that Jake could ever have been the big bad Outlaw he has been in the past. I truly hated for this book to end. I didn't want to leave those beautiful mountains of the J&L Ranch." -- Glenda, 5 September 2017.

     "The Outlaw Hearts saga continues with an intense guns a-blazing opening, as only Rosanne Bittner can deliver. The Last Outlaw is everything her readers expect from such an amazing family. Just as Ms. Bittner's epic Savage Destiny series engulfed our hearts and souls, The Outlaw Hearts saga equally encompasses our hearts and feeds our souls. Jake and his beloved Randy have seen it all, survived it all, and once again will be tested in the most traumatic ways. Jake wants more for his young son and daughter, and grandchildren, he wants them not to follow the life he has lead. From Outlaw, to U.S. Marshal, to rancher, Jake only wants to be the family man he's always craved, but will he get the chance, as he's needed once again to right a wrong and face a demon a lifetime in the making? How much more can the Harkners endure and can they survive this newest turn of events? Jake's sweet disposition and interaction with his grandchildren is precious and so worth witnessing. Even an Outlaw like Jake has an achilies heal when it comes to these little Harkners. This was truly an amazing book that will help heal our hearts after Loves Sweet Revenge'straumatic ending. Rosanne Bittner's The Last Outlaw is phenomenally written with a heart-felt, nail-biting, emotional conclusion. So saddle up and hang on tight, The Harkners will encompass your heart and feed your soul." -- Tonya, 5 September 2017.

Order THE LAST OUTLAW:      Amazon.com      Barnes & Noble      iBooks   

The Outlaw Hearts Series:

            
(Note: Please click on any of the covers above for more information about that book, or see my Outlaw Hearts Series page!)

    Order THE LAST OUTLAW      CHRISTMAS IN A COWBOY'S ARMS   

    To order in all e-reader formats, please see my E-book List page!     

WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT THE OUTLAW HEARTS SERIES:

     "The first book in the series was my first romance book I [ever] read, and all these years later it's still my top favorite! What's cool, is 20+ years after first publishing OUTLAW HEARTS, Rosanne Bittner was given the opportunity to have it reissued and write 2 sequels!! Now she's currently working on a 4th (and last) book for Jake and Randy. You do *not* want to miss these if you are a fan of western romance! She knows how to steal your heart and breath and give it back in the most amazing way!" -- Michelle R., 26 July 2016.

     Outlaw Hearts Series page    

        GOOD NEWS: I have a limited number of signed books that you can purchase directly from me. There are some some hard-to-find older titles, including some foreign translations! Please Email Meme if you're looking for a specific book, or send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to me at P. O. Box 1044, Coloma, MI 49038 for a newsletter that lists books I have available.

"Dear Mrs. Bittner, I discovered your books about six months ago, and have been reading them non-stop. MY DILEMMA NOW, MRS. BITTNER, WHAT AM I GOING TO DO AFTER I FINISH MY LAST BOOK OF YOURS? I LOVE the period you write in (pioneers and indians) and your wonderful style of writing. I have learned more about our heritage and the wonderful Native Americans from your books than what I learned while in school. PLEASE, PLEASE, I truly hope you can give me a name or two to look into for further reading. PLEASE WRITE MORE BOOKS....I am a fan of yours for life!!!" -- from a recent email