Karen Baney
Mar 24
In Falling for a Bossy Cowboy, Derin Vargas desperately wants to change how he sees and interacts with women. One of his buddies recommended an app for 101 Questions to Ask on a Date.
When I incorporated this into the novel, the interactions between Madison and Derin became so much easier (and fun!) to write. I searched for new questions and added them with answers from the character’s point of view.
But where did this idea come from? A marriage seminar. I highly recommend using 101 questions for any couple, married or just dating. It’s a great way to get to know the person you’re with, without all the awkward “what do we talk about?”.
I hope you enjoy this excerpt from Falling for a Bossy Cowboy from Madison Moore’s point of view.
__________
Madison watched as Derin pulled his phone from his shirt pocket, swiping and tapping a few times. Then he looked up, expression serious, and asked the most bizarre question.
“If you were stranded on a deserted island and could choose any three things to have with you, what would you pick and why?”
“What?” Her eyes rounded.
“You heard the question, Madi.”
She chewed slowly, mulling it over.
“That’s hard.”
“Right?” He chuckled.
“What would you pick?”
“No dodging it. I’ll answer after you do.”
“Ugh. Let’s assume I have food and water.”
Derin narrowed his eyes and conceded.
“My Bible.”
He rolled his eyes.
“What? It’s a legit answer.”
“So says every church goer. Next?”
“You wouldn’t?”
He wagged a finger at her as he stabbed a chunk of roast before popping it in his mouth.
“Chocolate.”
Derin tossed his head back and chuckled loudly. So much so that a few heads turned their direction. “Women.”
“And a Costco-sized bag of ground coffee.”
“How are you making the coffee?”
“I don’t know. I’m sure I could figure it out.”
Madison pushed her empty plate away. “Your turn.”
“First choice? You.”
Heat flamed her cheeks. What was he saying?
“Second choice would be Djano.”
Madison quirked an eyebrow.
“My horse. And that’s only because you put the stipulation that food and water aren’t an issue. So, he won’t starve.”
She snorted. “Me and your horse.”
“Yup. And my hat. That’s it.”
“Me, your horse, and your hat.” She shook her head. “Why me?”
Derin’s eyes glinted with mirth. “You’re insanely beautiful. Smart. Very entertaining.”
Her cheeks warmed at the compliment.
“We would fight like cats and dogs.”
He shook his head. “I’m not buying that.”
“I can’t stand you.”
“Not buying that either.” Derin grinned. “Here’s another one. Have you ever won an award for a sport?”
Madison snatched up the phone. “Huh. That’s really the question. What is this?”
“One hundred and one questions to ask on a date.”
“Is this a date?”
“Welcome to the party, Madi.”
Heat warmed her face. Derin was one of a kind. She shook her head and handed him his phone.
Love is in the air at the Vargas Guest Ranch & Resort near Wickenburg, Arizona. The Vargas family lives and breathes their family motto: We do not deviate from the Lord’s plan. Five brawny brothers keep the ranch and resort running while life lassos their hearts in this epic contemporary cowboy romance series.
Falling for a Real Cowboy (Book 1) - Dalton Vargas
Release Date: November 21, 2023
Available at all major retailers.
She’s trying to resurrect her career. He’s sworn off women. Will this city-meets-country duo find love where they least expect it?
Falling for a Shy Cowboy (Book 2) - Dylan Vargas
Release Date: December 19, 2023
Available at all major retailers.
She’s a single mom with a disabled son. He’s been in love with her since high school. Will this shy cowboy finally win her heart?
Falling for a Bossy Cowboy (Book 3) - Derin Vargas
Release Date: March 26, 2024
Available at all major retailers.
She’s famous and nearing the end of her career. He’s blunt, bossy, and downright annoying. Will these two find the perfect balance between truth and love?
Falling for a Smart Cowboy (Book 4) - Devon Vargas
Release Date: 2024
She’s an orphan on a mission to change children’s lives. He’s an overwhelmed overachiever and her boss. Will these two learn to work together and find love in the process?
Falling for a Grumpy Cowboy (Book 5) - Drake Vargas
Release Date: 2024
She’s the happiest person he’s ever met. His world has turned upside and he wallows in misery. Will these coworkers find middle ground as they head into the holidays?