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As many of you may know, our beloved sister hostess SHARON DONOVAN, tragically passed away on 11th April 2012. We who knew her, loved her, and were inspired by her courage and determination to face head on whatever life threw at her. When she could no longer see to paint she turned to writing and showed her amazing talent in the Inspirational Romance and Romantic Suspense genres, and her story 'Charade Of Hearts' was awarded the coveted Predators and Editors Award in January 2011.

This Blog was a source of great delight to her, she was one of the founder hostesses and she contributed to the fun and silliness in her own original way, and was kind enough to let her unique creation, the hunky butler 'Oliver' join us for our Friday romp and prepare 'virtual breakfast' for the guests on the following morning. It's beyond hard to have to go on without her, but we know that she would have been the first to insist that 'the show must go on.' She is, and will always be with us in spirit.
Sharon, dear friend, we will never forget you.
The Author Roast and Toast is part of the legacy you left us. Let's raise a Toast to you as well as all our guests.
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Friday, December 4, 2009

Today we roast Mona Risk and her release of Rx For Trust

Mona's favorite place to be is the beautiful beaches of South Florida. It's the perfect place to roast this lovely, extremely well educated and traveled author. The warm water lulls one along with a gentle lap as small waves hit the shore. Coconut palms rustle in the breeze and our team of waiters finishes setting up for Mona's roast. Each of the waiters has been bonded, we want to avoid any problems. WITCHYS WIKKED GRAPHIX
There is a huge chocolate cake with raspberry filling, it's the centerpiece for a table filled with delicious foods.

Junior and Cuddles are already enjoying the gentle surf. Chasing each other and the sand crabs that scuttle across the beach here at popular Ft. Lauderdale Beach. I hope they keep watch for out for trouble, it's their job. This place sure is hopping, you never know what you might see here. People come here from all over the world. Welcome to sunny South Florida!

We have several different types of Greek foods today. There's stuffed grape leaves, spanakopita warm from the oven, fried Kalamari, grilled Octopus, Eggplant Moussaka, kabobs of Souvlaki, great bowls of yogurt with honey, huge Greek salads with olives and hunks of Feta cheese, Koulourakia for dipping in your coffee, and for desert, the Baklava rich with honey and the rice Rizogalo. That's not half of what we have. The food looks wonderful!


I hope Oliver ordered the special bottles of Porto for Mona, direct from the Douro Valley in Portugal. Ah, there they are right next to her lounger, just inside the cabana. I see people approaching, bare feet on sun warmed sand. Most interesting are the different flip flops on the women, must be a fad. Cover ups, and sundresses hide bathing suits beneath them. Easy on and off when they try out the beautiful surf.
WITCHYS WIKKED GRAPHIX

Things are starting to get really crowded and I am getting so excited. Oh here comes Lyn and Sharon. They both look so cute in their sun dresses, swim suits underneath ready for anything.

"Hi girls you look so cute and your sun hats are adorable." Mary hugs them both. "Gosh what a crowd we have," Sharon trips over her feet and knocks poor Lyn onto the ground. "Here ladies, let me help you both up." Sharon smacks Lyn back who gives her a raspberry and smiles at me.

"Well we're ready, is that Mona I see walking next to those two hunks? They look like heroes from her books don't they?
WITCHYS WIKKED GRAPHIX

Yes, that's her," I answer. "Mona over here." Lyn waves and hollers to Mona. Sharon opens one of the bottles of port and sniffs the sweet aroma before pouring a glass for Mona. "Mona looks so cute in her long white Karlo Colletto cover up, those slits up the side are just the right touch." Sharon offers her a glass of port. Suddenly Oliver rushes in, bare chest oiled, and his open sleeveless t-shirt flapping. " No, " Sharons mouth drops," he's wearing a speedo!"

Oliver is on a mission as he pushes all three hostess's out of his way and they all go flying. He then throws himself onto the ground at Mona's feet. He prostrates himself and kisses her feet.
Mary groans loudly, because both Lyn and Sharon have landed on her.

They get up groaning and then Sharon gets mad and takes over. "Oliver," she gives him a look, "the auction option." That's all it takes.

Oliver rushes to make sure they are okay. He helps them all up and with Sharon's nod he goes back to Mona. He guides them all into the airy, beautiful cabana. Where a comfortable lounge chair awaits Mona. Mona walks in noticing the Hybiscus, Gardenia, Bird of Paradise and other subtropical plants and flowers that fill the temporary sun shelter. She takes a seat and smiles at Oliver with a twinkle in her eye.

"Welcome to your roast Mona." Oliver gives her a sweet kiss on the cheek and holds out three copies of Rx for Trust to be autographed. He's so hooked on her books. She smiles at him and takes the books. Mona signs with a flourish and then stands up to address the crowd, holding her glass of wine high above her head.


"Welcome," she turns one way, "Welcome my friends!", she says to all the guests on one side of her and turns to the other side.

As the crowd roars back at her. "Mona, Mona, Mona!" Everyone downs their glasses And Mona yells back to the crowd. "Let the party begin!"

Mona's new release Rx for Trust will blow you away!

Dear Friends from Roast and Toast, thank you for allowing me to present my new book Rx FOR TRUST and to discuss the emotional problems created by domestic violence and their lingering effects years after the actual abuse has stopped. By the way, I should mention that far from being a dark story, my medical romance is a sweet and spicy story that will make you smile, laugh and cry.

Question to readers: Do you think Olivia has the duty to inform her daughter of the truth about her father?

The daughter of a professor and writer, I grew up surrounded by books and started writing my own stories at an early age but I also wanted to be a doctor. Unfortunately, I couldn’t stand the sight of blood or dissect the adorable rabbit in my premed lab. It was easier to shift to a different major, prepare a Ph.D. in Chemistry and dedicate myself to a career in environmental clean-up.

An early retirement allowed me to pursue my dream of writing romance novels and work on my first book, TO LOVE A HERO, through which I lived again my fantastic trips to Belarus. I never forgot the medical dream of my youth and indulged in creating gorgeous doctors and handsome specialists for my medical romances. BABIES IN THE BARGAIN was followed by Rx for TRUST, the first book in the series DOCTOR’S ORDER.

Rx FOR TRUST, released by The Wild Rose Press on December 4, 2009, is a sweet and spicy medical romance about two psychiatrists who don’t practice the principles they preach to their patients.

Contest Awards: First Place in Central Ohio Ignite the Flame, Second Place in Heart of Denver, The Molly ; Third Place in FTHRW Golden Gateway.

Short Synopsis:

Olivia Crane is a psychiatrist at Cincinnati University Hospital. She is also a woman with a troubled past and secrets by the bucket-load. Deep, dark one

s that may destroy her carefully constructed world and all hope of a happy future.

Dr. Luc George, the French psychiatrist, she loved ten years ago, detests secrets. When he received an invitation from Olivia’s boss to consult at Cincinnati University Hospital, Luc wrongly assumes that Olivia wants him back.

All hell breaks loose when Luc strolls into her office, with a confident smile and a perceptive eye, determined to rekindle their relationship and threatening to unravel the secrets of her thorny past. Can Luc win Olivia’s trust and love before her inner fears destroy their second chance at happiness?

Excerpt:

Olivia loved her mother to death, but at the moment she wanted to scream her frustration at her beaming Mama. It was obvious Marianna Crane had fallen in love with Luc the moment she’d seen him, or more precisely at the very minute he bent over and kissed the back of her hand with an “Enchanté, madame.”

“I’m delighted to meet you, Luc. Please have a seat. Where have I put my glasses? Melissa, bring the tray of hors d’oeuvres from the kitchen. Olivia, can you serve the drinks? Luc, what can I get you?”

Mama bustled with energy, the way she always did before starting a new project. Seeing her fussing around Luc, Olivia was afraid to guess the name of the new project—her mother’s ongoing goal.

“May I help with the drinks?” Luc offered.

“Of course. Make yourself at home,” Mama purred.

Dropping onto one of the overstuffed chairs of the old-fashioned living room, Olivia rested a moment. She liked coming home to her mother’s. The warm aroma of potpourri soothed her rattled nerves. Tonight, the garlic and nutmeg smell of Mama’s masterpiece roast emanated from the kitchen. Her mother had sharpened her tools to conquer their guest.

Olivia recognized the symptoms. Good dinner, good drinks, good stories. Luc wasn’t going to leave unscathed tonight, not when her mother wanted Luc’s heart for her daughter.

Mama turned toward her. Eyes narrowed, she signaled to Olivia to follow her into the office. “I need you for a second,” Marianna ordered with a you-failed-big-time look.

Olivia braced herself for the worst.

As soon as they stepped into the office, Mama closed the glass double doors behind her, spun around to face Olivia and pointed to the door. “This Luc, is he the French boy you dated when you were in med school?”

Mama’s scowl promised her lecture was going to be worse than Olivia had expected.

“The one you never wanted to bring home to meet your mama and dad?” Marianna propped her fists on her hips.

Olivia took a deep breath and exhaled. “Yes.” It would be a long discussion, all right.

“And you sent him packing? And you let us believe he was no good? Olivia, are you crazy or what?” Marianna snatched a chocolate from a crystal bowl and popped it into her mouth.

“Mom!” Olivia scowled and took a step toward the door.

“Oh no. I have to tell you what I think. Madonna mia, you are a great doctor, but as a smart woman...phht.” Her mother cut the air with her hand. “Any uneducated Italian girl would know that when she meets such a handsome, nice, good-mannered...” Her mother paused for a second to catch her breath and launched again. “Intelligent, famous, wealthy...” She stopped, at a loss for adjectives, and glanced toward the living room for more inspiration.

“Mom, I get your point.”

“I’m not finished. He came back. Now you have a second chance. Don’t lose it, girl. For once, listen to your mother and keep him. You understand, Olivia?” Mama threw another chocolate into her mouth and chewed on it and then clucked her tongue.

“I’m afraid about Melissa learning—”

“So what if she learns her father’s a rotten ass? She’ll hate him. Big deal. She’ll love you more for protecting her.” Her mother stood on tiptoe to pat her cheek. “Bambina, it’s a great time you think about yourself for a change. Grab him without hesitation.” She tugged at Olivia’s hand and walked toward the door. “I’ll be watching you tonight. I’ll keep Melissa out of the way, and I want to see some action.”

117 comments:

  1. OH MY GOD, WHAT A FABULOUS PARTY. I couldn't have celebrated the release of Rx for Trust with more style, more punch, more fun...

    What a great reception. I love you girls. You are amazing. I am rubbing my stomach at the delicious food.

    And look at the cake. Chocolate and raspberry. I am adding three pounds just looking at it. But who cares about pounds today.

    It's celebration day and I am enjoying the party that my dear friend Mary has prepared with the help of Lyn and Sharon.

    Look at Oliver. He's a sight to revive a dead woman. And I am very much alive.

    Oliver, sweetheart, turn around. Let me look at you. You're even better than I imagine. LOL I can't stop smiling at such a party.

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  2. Hi Mona, and welcome to your party.
    We're so glad you like everything, Oliver has really gone all out cooking up your menu requests - when he could stop admiring his reflection in the window, that is! LOL *Sigh*

    Happy, happy release day - you can eat as much of that chocolate cake as you like, it's your day and anything consumed at this party has no calories!

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  3. Fun beach party! And ooh, that chocolate cake - can I take some home with me? Mona, congratulations on this release. Wonderful excerpt. I hope Olivia listens to her mother. Italian mothers do know best, lol. I should know, I have one (well, an Italian American mother, but it's basically the same and yes, she's always right, just ask her!)

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  4. Hello, Mona and congratulations on your release party! We are most happy to roast you today with all of your favorite food and drink. And Oliver is just beside himself with joy, like Lyn said, when he can stop blowing kisses at his own reflection. But you have caught his roguish eye too, Mona, dear Mona. Enjoy! Now where is that Mary?

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  5. Hi Mona, welcome to your celebration!
    Today is all about you my friend. I hope you have a ton of party visitors who comment.
    Oliver looks pretty hot in that speedo doesn't he. But be careful he's known to be a little fresh. There are people arriving and they look so good in their beachware, but not as good as you look in your lovely white sundress and that sexy hat. I hope you sell a lot of books today.

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  6. Hi Lyn, you must have spent hours cooking but yummy, it's so delicious, it was worth the time. That cake is a sin, a nice delicious sin. Thank you for all the trouble.

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  7. Hi Allison, I din't know your mother is from Italian origin. Mine comes from Greek blood. Close enough. Olivia's mother in my excerpt is a mix of my mother and mother-in-law. Both were quite demanding to say the least. LOL

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  8. Hi Sharon, thank you for the arrangements. I think Oliver is blowing kisses to the ladies around him. He is a smart guy.

    Hey Oliver, where did you get that bikini? Is it a thong in the back? Looks very European.

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  9. Hi Mary, I woke up to see that marvelous party in my ideal setting, with a delicious food and a cake...oh my!!! that cake will give me sweet dreams for months, especially if Oliver helps me eat it. Oh Mary, you went out of your way for me. Thank you.

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  10. Congrats Mona on the release.

    I hope you have a great day.

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  11. You deserve it Mona! Oh my, Oliver is flexing his muscles for you Mona. He hates to be ignored. Junior and Cuddles are at your feet I think they love you.
    I hope the weather stays nice, I have hired bonded waiters to make sure you are protected, we've had trouble with people like the James Gang before!

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  12. Tee Hee, I think Oliver will be more than happy to help you eat that cake, Mona. He was determined to put on a good show for you - I suspect he has a bit of a crush on you.

    Yowlp! Lyn falls face first in a pile of golden sand as Oliver hurtles past, shoving her aside in his anxiety to give Mona the tray of goodies he's carrying.

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  13. Oh big hugs to Mary and Lyn! Let's hope the James Gang doesn't show up yet again. You know Oliver and Cuddles and Junior are no help, why with them running for cover and leaving the women folk behind!
    Allison, welcome to Mona's party. And Mona, we are so pleased you are pleased! That makes us very happy. Raising my wine glass to you in a toast! Oliver, make our guest of honor a platter of this delicious food. Mona, this book is another for my Christmas list. Did you hear that, Oliver???? Oliver???? You are buying me a gift, are you not???!!!

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  14. Aw and you looked so nice before you got covered in sand. Owwffff.
    Oliver pushes Mary out of the way to get to Mona. Now covered with sand Mary and Lyn look at Sharon all fresh and clean, they look at each other and smile slyly. Then push Sharon into the sand too. She laughs, nothing bothers Sharon. They brush each other off and turn to see Oliver kissing Mona's hand and whispering in her ear. Mona look like she is enjoying his sweet nothings. Hmmm...

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  15. Hee hee. Sharon dusts her hands after accidently on purpose tripping Mary and Lyn. She walks away, yelling over her shoulder to Mona, "My motto is don't get mad, get even!"
    smiles at Beth. Can Oliver fix you a drink or a plate?

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  16. Hi Mona!
    Congrats on the book and your wonderful roast! Loved the excerpt. And your intriguing question: Should Olivia tell her daughter the truth about her father? Maybe not when she's younger, but when she's old enough to understand, her mom needs to tell her the truth without making her feel guilty for loving her father or wanting to have a relationship with him. (Haven't read the book yet so I don't know the situation.) But in my opinon, lies are like chickens. No matter how noble the lie, they eventually come home to roost.

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  17. Mary and Lyn look at each other as they lay on the ground. You're the one who pushed her. Well mostly. We'll get her later. Tee Hee.
    It's still quiet a bit early for the beach crowd but Mona how's the port? We ordered it special for you.

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  18. Hi Lillt, you are so right. In our modern time of high tech, lies end up always uncovered sooner or later. Thanks for answering the question and thanks for joining the party. Here cheers to you and to my book. We drink Porto, Cognac and other French wines in my story. Did I tell you my hero is French. Oui ma chère, a French lover for an all-american gal.

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  19. Hello Beth, so glad to see you dropping by. Have a drink and let's toast. I think you are too on promotion frenzy. Isn't it the fun part of selling a book? Ha ha ha!!!

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  20. Lyn I have a secret to tell you. Hmm secrets are the theme of Rx For Love, so here's one more to keep from Oliver.

    The hero of my next romance is called Olivier, notice the French spelling because my next hero is also French.

    Don't you see I love Frenchmen. I bet our Oliver here has some drops of French blood. N'est-ce-pas Oliver? Is that right Oliver?

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  21. To be honest Mary it's the first time in my life that I drink porto that early in the morning. Usually it's coffee laced with Porto because I need to keep a clear head. LOL

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  22. Welcome to Mona's roast, Lilly. I love your analogy about telling the truth. Words to live by. Have some port. Cheers, Mona!

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  23. Hey Mona--Congrats on the release! This is definitely the place to celebrate. All the food looks great and the Florida beaches...well, it sounds good to me.

    I agree that Olivia should tell her daughter the truth at some point.

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  24. Oliver prances across to Mona, waving a dictionary in one hand and, in the other, carrying a porto laced with coffee (yes, you read it right!) which he carefully hands to her before taking her hand. "Oui Madam, Oui, Oui!"

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  25. Mary tells Lyn how pleased she is about the blog today. There are some small clouds on the horizon, but we'll keep and eye on them.
    I've been watching for the James Gang and any other uninvited guests. Though I did see some guys in suits before, that was strange.
    Sharon, Lyn, let's send Junior and Cuddles out to see that everything is alright.
    Oliver is dancing for Mona now. I hope he doesn't shake it too much.

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  26. Cindy you are welcome to the Florida beaches anytime. They are my favorites. My friends here know how to throw a hell of a party. Look at the butler. Such a playboy.

    It's interesting how people answer my question. A group is against the truth if it hurts, and a group is for the truth because the daughter has the right to know and sooner or later it may come out.

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  27. Wow, Lyn, coffee laced with porto. the best combination. Make her dizzy with coffee. That Oliver is a ... hmm who can resist him! I am already dancing.

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  28. Wow, Mona is up on one of the tables dancing with Oliver. She is shaking her booty and I can't believe it. Look at her guys she's having a blast. What is that music Oliver is playing on his new Boise stereo?

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  29. Hi Cindy, hope you can stay long enough to enjoy some food. There is plenty to go around. Mona, are you having fun yet? LOLOLOL!!!

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  30. Hi Allison, Cindy, Beth. Lilly, and anyone I may have inadvertently missed. Hope I haven't. O've been looking for those mischievous characters, Junior and Cuddles. Last I saw them they were frolicking in the surf and Cuddles was chatting up a seahorse. I wonder what they're up to now, anyone seen them?

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  31. You know Mona, I am a certified medical transcriptionist. So your book caught my attention. I must read it and look forward to some of the medical terminology. I rely on my notes for some of my writing, although they are not medical stories. Do you have a lot of reference books for the medical terms?

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  32. Hi Sharon, my main references are my daughter (a neonatologist) and my sister( a psychiatrist). They inspired my two books Babies in The Bargain and Rx For Trust and reviewed the books for medical accuracy. Also my daughter gave me a video and a booklet to study the resuscitation process I was describing, and my sister gave me two books of psychiatric cases to read and choose from. It was very interesting. Now I consider myself a half doctor and can speak with authority about MY cases. LOL

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  33. Mary, I think Oliver is very engrossed in his music and forgot to pass the drinks.

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  34. That cloud in the distance is concerning me. I still don't know the name of the song we are all dancing to. Hey look there's a whale out there. Man I could see sharks, sting rays, snook all kinds of fish when I was snorkeling before.

    Suddenly a huge whale leaps out of the water and splashes the hostess's as they stand by the crowd. Now don't that stink. But then Lyn notices that out of it's blow hole a funny looking thing has dropped in front of her.
    No Lyn don't touch that Sharon yells, it's a slop grenade. Oh NOOOO!!! KABOOM! Mary goes flying and falls flat on her face. Lyn and Sharon land in a heap beside her. Whew, that was disgusting. The trio picks themselves up and goes to clean up. Why us?
    In the distance a whale snickers.

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  35. Holy heck, ya just never know what'll pop out of a humback's blow hole, eh? Marey, sure hope we don't run into any if we take that cruise!

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  36. Mona, sounds like you have enough reference material under your belt to be a doctor! Great sources of reference. Here's a fresh glass of port. Cheers, Doctor Mona!

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  37. Looks like my first comment didn't go through so here's another: Congrats! Would love to stop and have some calamari but am on the way to the Recycling Bin and they close soon. Save me a chocolate rose and tell Oliver "Hi".

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  38. Hi Mona,
    What an exciting celebration. I had to stop by and be a part of it.
    Sincere congratulations!

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  39. Mary, don't swim too deep. Once upon a time on a nice clear day, people were waving at me to come out of the ocean, and I didn't understand what they wanted. I went out any way thinking they needed help. THERE WAS A SHARK BEHIND ME.

    Where was Oliver when we needed him?

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  40. I'll take two Olivers, please. or two days with him.

    What a lovely party. I'd get fatter hanging with you ladies.

    Mona, I know I'm gonna love this book.

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  41. Hey Toni, I love calamari too. We will keep you some. Thanks for stopping by.

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  42. Hi Joanne, thank you for coming to the party. Have a toast. You can dance with Oliver too. I think I'll sit and rest for a minute.

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  43. Thank you Mama Mary. I am sure you will like Rx For Trust. Even my sister who never reads romance--God forbid-- even her said she loved it. And that's the biggest recommendation. LOL

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  44. Just like last year at the FRW party when all the people were in the water and we were way high trying to warn them.

    That stormfront is getting closer. Cuddles can you hold it off for a bit for us? I know Junior we don't want Mona to get drenched either.
    Lyn, you have TP on your shoe. Sharon you have calamari in your front teeth. And me AAAHHHH! I have ants in my pants. Mary runs down the beach and takes a dive into the water. Then trudges back quite wet, but without the ants.
    Hey, is that horses in the distance. You don't think that they will come this way do you?

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  45. Mona! Mona! Mona! Ahem, sorry, I got carried away with the crowd chanting so enthusiastically.
    Or maybe it was Oliver in that swimsuit. Wow.
    Congrats on your release, Mona! Rx for Trust sounds like a fantastic read.
    As always, ladies, an amazing shindig!

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  46. Congrats Mona on your release, and on a fantastic party. Loved the excerpt!!

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  47. Hi Cate, Joanne, Toni.

    Cuddles, Junior, what are you getting so excited about? Oh, white horses in the sea, it's all right Mary, they're not coming into shore, they're rising up into the sky to chase those dark clouds away!

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  48. Oh Dawn, sorry, didn't see you there, don't mind these two crazt animals, get Oliver to fetch you some refreshments, if he can tear himself away from Mona for a minute!

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  49. Ants in your pants? I hate when that happens! Welcome, Joanne, Tony and Mary. Oliver, more wine over this way, please! What do you mean you won't serve me until I clean the calamari from my teeth! You do remember the auction, don't you, Oliver? Read my lips. Yikes, the horses really area a comin' closer. Mary, what should we do? Cuddles and Junior, go check it out. Where the heck is Lyn? Did the James Gang kidnap her yet again?

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  50. Hello Cate, so you were the one chatting in that corner with Oliver. Did he give you too much to drink? I'll have a word with him. Thanks for coming Cate.

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  51. Hi Dawn, I am glad you are dancing with Oliver. The guy is a hoot. Glad you enjoyed the excerpt.

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  52. I think so, a white horse just galloped up and grabbed her, she was a bit tipsy and talking about white horses in the sea and storms. Sometimes we worry about her.
    Oh Shooooootttt, It was Jessie James and he took our Lyn, what will he do with her. He seems to be holding her a bit too closely as he canters back to the other horses and their rider.
    My goodness, it's the James Gang. Sharon run I see a horse coming at you. Mona is okay Oliver is still drooling over her. Sharon? SSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHAAAAAARRRROOONNN!

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  53. Mary, Lyn, Sharon, I am taking my laptop and going to bring Mom to the party. See you in an hour. She'd love to dance with Oliver, but he'll have to be careful around her wheelchair.

    Do you know that my book is dedicated to my Mom?

    My dedication reads like that:
    This book is dedicated to my mother who has been a mentor,a friend and a shining example of perseverance and courage.

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  54. Welcome to the shin dig, Cate and Dawn. Have a port and dance with Oliver if you can drag him from Mona. LOL Lyn? White horses? Isn't that a Stones song? Sharon raises her port and belts out a verse,
    Wild horses, couldn't drag me awayyyyyyyyyyyy! hic Wild horses...
    Mary, maybe...hic...if we invited the James Gang they wouldn't storm in like wild horsssssses...hic

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  55. Mona, that is so lovely I have a tear in my eye! What a beautiful thing to do for your mother. We will welcome her with open arms.

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  56. Sharon stumbles and the horseman misses his grab for her. Mary rolls her into the cabana and covers her face with a nice hat.
    As Mary chases the horse that took Lyn, she sees a shape on the sandy beach bobbing in the surf. When Mary gets there she grabs Lyn and turns her over. Lyn starts singing "20 bottles of beer on the wall" and says. He left me here because he really wanted Mona, there's a price on her head. Mary helps her back to the cabana where Oliver is kissing each crimson colored toenail on one of Mona's feet. Next to her stands the Duke, he nods to Mary as he takes Mona's arm. "I'll take her to get her Maw, don't worry ladies, we'll be right back." Mary flops down for a rest. Lyn and Sharon are arm in arm singing at the top of their lungs. Sigh.

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  57. Sharon holds hands to her ears. Holy heck, Lyn. You're crooning loud enough to wake the dead. Hic. Giggles and points to the Duke and the James Gang who keep appearing like the stuff coming out of the humpback. Hic...the walking' dead are here, straight from Dodge City. Hear that, Lynney girl? Lyn keeps singing about the bottles of beer. Mary sticks an empty bottle in her mouth and tells her to stifle it.

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  58. You're both tipsy. Lyn pull up your drawers, and Sharon now you have chocolate cake between your teeth. Mary drags both of them to the huge coffee urn of fresh Colombian coffee, she forces the coffee into both of them.
    Sober up you two, Mona's mother will be here soon too. You don't want to embarrass her do you? Lyn now your boobs are popping out the top and Sharon, you can't clean chocolate cake out of your mouth by eating baklava. Oh my, I could use some help here Oliver. Oliver???

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  59. It might help if the James Gang would either materialize or leave altogether!!

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  60. Sharon sobers up upon hearing the James Gang. Slurps coffee and elbows Lyn in the ribcage and tells her to wise up. Pats Mary on the head but misses. Oops, a little more Columbian beanery, please. Did you say my man Jessie is here? Sharon primps and preens

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  61. Boobs? Boobs? They're not boobs, they're intensun-intenshun - intenshun-al!

    Oh Jesse - what do you mean, Oh you are naughty - but I like you! *hic*

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  62. Yes, they are all here Sharon, waiting to dance with you. So if you'll just drink some more coffee and stop with the martini's you might just be able to sneak a kiss or two out behind the cabana.
    Look at that line of cowboys waiting to find a date for today. Lyn, look at that Frank James, Clell Miller, Arthur McCoy, Charlie Pitts, Bill Stiles and Ace Nelson. Charlie is winking at you. They're all here and this time they want to party!

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  63. Hi girls. I am back but YOU have been drinking way too much. Sharon has chocolate all over and Lyn, oh dear. Oliver, stop licking my toenails, well you can continue if you manage to bring those girls some strong coffee, I mean coffee in their Cognac. Yes that would help. Mary dear, are you the only one sober. Mary!!!what are doing on that horse with a knight.

    Geez I should have never left you alone.

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  64. Oh, I want to read this! I just finished Babies in the Bargain and loved it!

    Great party, girls!

    ~Lynne

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  65. I think he dropped by from another story. But a knight on a big horse is such a turn on.
    If these girls don't sober up, I might take a ride...

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  66. Hic...Mary, well now I'm impressed...hic...you know all those names from the Wild Wild West and they rattled off your tongue like that stuff flying out of the humpback. Holy heck. Jessie, oh Jessie, are you winking at me darlin'?!!

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  67. Aww Lynne, YOU MADE MY DAY. I am so happy you loved Babies in the Bargain. Thank you for partying with us. Have a toast.

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  68. Mary, if these girls don't sober up I am taking them for a swim in the ocean. It's calm and clear, and that will clear their head.

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  69. Jessie back on ypour horse and out you go. Sharon are you better now in the water? OUH what a lovely bikini. No wonder Oliver is running toward us. Oh dear, Oliver, put back that piece. It's the only one you're wearing. Gggg the guy is losing it.

    Go back and bring me a drink. I badly need a vodka please. Something strong from my Russian book.

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  70. Lyn wacks Jesse across the ear. Oy, you said I was your date - what you doing flirtin' with Sharon? Hmm, I don't care if she did see your first!

    Oh hello Mona, it's great to see you back. Yes, we seem to have been joined by the James gang. Oh yes, and I'm sure I saw the Duke riding around somewhere. I'm not sure all these horses galloping up and down the beach are doing the sand much good!

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  71. Sharon, you said before I gave you a tear. Now let me give you another. I edited Rx for Trust in winter. At the time they gave my mother only two weeks to live. I never hoped she'd live to see my book. I am so happy she's with us. As soon as I receive my order I am bringing her a copy to read.

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  72. Too many horses on the sand. I am taking Oliver to the ocean. I don't think there are sharks today. If I see one, Oliver will take care of it. We'll have shark for dinner. Voila!!

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  73. Aw Mona, that is so tocuhing - and I'm so glaad your mother made it through. I bet she'll be so proud when she holds Rx for Trust in her hands!

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  74. Oh Mona, please not the ocean where wild predators lurk? All those sharps and Manta rays? You wouldn't? Would you???

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  75. Is the beach party still going on? I'm late, I'm late!

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  76. Well the James gang left, Mona is a force to be reckoned with. After being thrown into the ocean it looks as if Sharon and Lyn are sobering up a bit. But tossing Oliver's speedo playing keep away won't work!
    See there he goes naked as the day he was born running down the beach headed to the cabana for vodka.
    He runs back and Mona watches his progress with a grin on her face.
    He hands Mona her vodka, and passes a glass to all of us. Lyn and Sharon down their glasses and fall back into the water. The coffee helped but the vodka didn't. They are both wasted again!
    Thank goodness I don't drink. I'm the designated watch so no one drowns!

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  77. Hi Beth, come join the party, it's still in full swing, and there's plenty of food and drink left.

    Despite the rumours, I'm not sloshed, though I can't speak for Sharon It was the sight of Oliver without his speedos that made me fall back into the sea!

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  78. Tat ta ta Mary. Not drinking.?Come again. I saw you gulping a whole galss of scotch. Out you go to the ocean. You need to sober too. Oliver, another vodka for me. Nazhtrovia. I mean Sante. Huh are we speaking Russian or French? My Russian vocabulary is ;limited to vodka nd Nazhtrovia. LOL

    Mary stay in the ocean you are still tipsy, honey.

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  79. Come on Beth. It's never too late on the beach. Oliver, plesae bring Beth her favorite drink.

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  80. Oh dear the vodka is affecting my typing.

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  81. Congrats on the release, Mona! Ladies, you outdid yourself on the location, decorations and food this week!

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  82. Vodka is that what this is???
    I didn't taste a bit of alcohol! I'm in the water now and I can feel little fisheys nibbling on my toes.

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  83. Hi Emma

    Thanks so much for the compliment (Lyn, Sharon and Mary blush furiously, Oliver is past blushing)

    Come join the party and have a glas of cake and a plate of vodka, oh heck you know what I mean!

    Mary, I don't think that's fishies nibbling your toes, it's a merman!

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  84. A merman??
    Mary ducks her head under the water and is immediately stunned. What a hot looking male, oh my goodness. I need diving equipment Lyn, Sharon, look at the hot merman!!
    Oh my, Mary sinks under and Sharon keeps pulling her up. My very own merman, Mary sighs. I wish I could hold my breath longer!

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  85. What a fun blog. Sitting here in the dark, wet British evening I would adore to be at your party in the sun.

    Good luck with your book, Mona!

    Helen

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  86. Mona, I love stories like that! You made my day and how precious the moment will be for your mom to hold your book and read the beautiful dedication. You are a wonderful and loving daughter. Here here! I applaud you...

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  87. Little fish nibbling on your toes? Mary, run girl run for your life. Gulp! I mean swim for all your worth. It's a killer shark, a tiger shark the most feared!

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  88. Lyn, you took the words out of my mouth. I was about to ask Mary, are you sure the fish are nibbling your toes. where are your toes? LOL

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  89. Hi Emma, isn't it nice around here? and fun? These ladies did a fabulous job with decorations for my party.

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  90. You gals throw one heck of a party! Wish I was there on the warm beach with the hot Oliver--though the sun is likely setting and it's time for supper.

    Having read Rx for Trust, I know all the lovely party people will enjoy it as much as I did.

    Best wishes and many sales,
    Joan

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  91. Hello Helen, thanks for stopping by. It's warm in Florida, although a bit cloudy. But the ocean is clear. We are having so much fun here. Have a beer.

    Ladies meet my fabulous critique partner. If you haven't already done it, you should read the Magic Knot, best book on so many sites. Her next book, The Pheonix Charm is coming out in January.

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  92. Well which is it a shark or a merman. I don't have my glasses on so I can't see a thing.
    Wait now it's at my knees. Nibbling, what the heck is it a Ramora?

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  93. Hi Joan, welcome to the party.

    Hi Helen. I'll let you into a secret. I'm sitting in the dark, wet British evening as well! Hop onto Cuddles' back with me and we'll fly off back to the beautiful warm virtual beach party with Mona and the others,

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  94. Hi Joan, welcome sweetie. Ladies meet my other CP. The incredible Joan Leacott who always find the right verb for the right situation. Oliver, bring a glass of verb for Joan.

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  95. OOPS, I mean a glass of wine. Sorry Joan, it's the vodka on an empty stomach. Time to eat those fabulous Greek pastries.

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  96. Lyn, I never knew you were in England. I'll have to put you on my list of people to visit during my next foreign adventure. You know how my DH can'tv stay in place long.

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  97. Virtual is right! South Florida is having a very rainy spell.
    But our virtual beach is lovely and I haven't gained a pound with all the food.
    Now if I could only be sure what is nibbling on me?
    Look here comes a bunch of hot guys with surfboards, they are heading out where the waves are breaking. Look at all those muscles.
    What is chewing on me? I can't see.

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  98. Sharon, Lyn, we need to get out and go hold Mona up, the vodka, she hold it well. But...
    We don't want Oliver to take advantage of her. He can get very fresh!

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  99. Welcome to Mona's fun beach party, Lynn, Emma, Joan, Beth and Helen. Helen, how fortunate you are to critique all of Mona's books! Ladies, have a drink and some food. The ocean is great, save the sharks....

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  100. Hey Lyn, Can you get Cuddles to stop off in chilly Canada on the way to the party? I NEED warmth!! Maybe Mona's verb-vodka will help. Slurp!

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  101. What no snuggie?


    If I hear that commercial one more time.

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  102. Well everyone, I have to see about dinner and check on my mom. She is recovering from a nasty fall. Mona, you have been a delight and I want this book! Everyone, the bar is still open and there is plenty to eat. Stay as long as you like. What a release party! Here here!!!

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  103. Yup! Dinner time. I hate to have to leave your virtual party Mona. I'll check back again later.
    Mona you are a delight to know and your books are just wonderful. I wish you the very best and I hope you had a good time today. You rock Mona!!!

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  104. Joan - a magical unicorn can do anything! I'll ask him to fly to Canada and give you a lift to our nice warm beach party!

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  105. Mona. I'm still here, although it's getting late in the UK. It's been so much fun having you here today, there's still plenty of food, drink - and sunshine left, keep on partying!

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  106. I just came back from my Mom. I want to thank you, Mary, Lyn, Sharon for a fabulous day at the beach. You went into so much trouble to make my day special. It turned out a fantastic release day.

    Oliver, my dear Oliver, here is a kiss on the cheek for you for being such a unique butler, the best of them all.

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  107. Hi Mona, sorry for stopping by so late (long day at the barn). I wanted to wish you the best with your newest release. Have fun on the beach. I hope you didn't get rained on! It poured here all day!

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  108. Congratulations on the release, Mona!

    Answer to the question: I believe Olivia should tell her daughter when/if the time is right for her to handle the news.

    Of course, I may feel differently after reading the book. :)

    Best of luck for many sales and enjoy the rest of your lovely party! Or maybe I should say, hope you have a speedy recovery? :)

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  109. Welcome to Mona's celebration, Melissa and Stacey. Sigh. Mona fell asleep while being fanned by Oliver, Lyn passed out and Mary decided if she couldn't beat 'em, join 'em. That's her over there with her toes being nibbled on by a sand crab. Me? Well, I woke up this morning chatting to a sea turtle about why he should run out and buy Mona's book...

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  110. Wow! It sure is crowded in here! Everyone is so excited about the new release. MaryM, you are going to make Mona and me homesick for the Greek Isles with all this wonderful food. Yum, I love the olives and the Balklava (sp), can't spell with my mouth full. Congrats Mona!

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  111. A seagull squawks its raucous cry and dawn comes to the beach.

    Oliver, with a long, multicolored bech robe on, to keep out the chill of the early morning sun, is busy clearing away empty plates and setting up breakfast for the many guests reumbent upon blankets or in deck chairs. (Does that guy never sleep?)He stops by Mona's chair and places a hibiscus blossom in her hand,and casts her an adoring look before continuing his breakfast preparations.

    Lyn stirs, and mutters 'On white horses, snowy white horses, let me fly awa----aaaay.'

    Oh, it's morning! Oh yes please Oliver, some Greek yoghurt and honey would be a great way to start the morning. Hi Scarlet, Stacey and Melissa, come and join us for a spot of breakfast.

    Mona - you're awake too! Thank you for being such a wonderful and sporty guest, it was so much fun having you here and thank you for letting us be part of your release day. Hope you sell tons of your new book!

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  112. Congrats on your release, Mona! I'm sure this will simply build on all the fabulous success you've had so far, and I wish you loads more of it!
    Greek yoghurt and honey, yes, please. No, Oliver, it's supposed to be in the BOWL, not all over YOU! Silly boy!! ;-))

    Jane x

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  113. Congrats, Mona! I'm amazed by your energy. Good luck with this new release.

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  114. Hi Jane and Nancy, how nice to see you here, do come and join us, there's plenty of food and it's aother lovely day!

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  115. Auction option? I should hang out here more often.

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AUTHOR ROAST AND TOAST

AUTHOR ROAST AND TOAST
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