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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, February 11, 2011

Terry Campbell's 'Craig's Legacy' celebrates its release with a Re-enactment Festival


 The hostesses of the Author Roast and Toast are holding a book release party at a Revolutionary War Re-enactment Festival and Party for the co-authors of, ‘Craig’s Legacy’, writing under the pen name of Terry Campbell. Bobbye and Linda are due to arrive any time. Mary seals the letter she is sending. The courier at the back door to this beautiful hunting lodge, here in Virginia, waits patiently to take it to its destination. An extra coin to keep him quiet will do the job. Mary then enters a lovely room overlooking the merrymaking. Sharon and Lyn put the last touches on their hair. Walking to the window she glances down. In the courtyard festival booths are being erected.

“Uh, Sharon dear, you do not need a bustle trust me.” Mary chuckles.
Sharon raises her shoulder and wrinkles her face. “For your information, it hides my butt, who knows what’s bustle and what’s me.”  Lyn snickers and snorts. Sharon’s dusty blue dress is a great match for her fair skin. “Don’t you laugh at me missy!” Sharon huffs. “Those feet happen to step on a man who has requested a dance, and the AR &T could have a law suit on our hands!”

Lyn smirks and smacks Mary.  Lyn’s purple gown doesn’t cover her huge bare feet. The cobbler is having a hard time making shoes large enough to fit them. With any hope they’ll be done before the party starts!

“Why’d you do that?” Mary whines and shoves Lyn, who happens to fall into Sharon who, happens to fall into the arms of a very handsome man dressed as a Confederate soldier standing in the open doorway. His hat one hand and a large pair of shoes in the other, yet he manages to keep it together as he catches Sharon.

“I do declare.” Sharon remarks. Her eyes glued to his amber orbs.

“Sorry Mam, you’re gonna have to let go of me. Uh, your guests of honor have arrived.”

Mary and Lyn laugh as they watch Sharon try not to drool and still look respectable. Sharon straightens her Scarlett O’Hara dress and tries to act nonchalant at the same time. She grabs the leather tie up shoes and tosses them to Lyn and they clunk her in the head.

“OW Sharon!” Sharon apologizes and then mumbles under her breath, “took a whole cow for these.” She snaps to attention! “Ladies, whenever you’re ready, I don’t want to keep Bobby and Linda waiting.”

"We’ll be right down thanks.” Sharon manages to speak intelligently, despite the fact her eyes are still glued to his back as he leaves.

“I have to get me one of those soldiers.”   Mary holds the bodice up on her lovely green gown as they rush down the wonderful, wide, wooden, staircase. Running, she holds them from bouncing. Oliver dressed as a Yankee soldier opens the door and they rush outside. It’s a crisp sunny day. Flutes play as men march in form. If luck holds out they won’t have to deal with snow and the celebration will be fabulous.

The girls spy Bobby dressed in a dark golden gown, Linda radiant in her own pale pink gown. They all hug and rush back into the lodge. They have never seen such a huge lodge. Musta been owned by one awfully rich Southern gentleman. A huge roaring fire fills a hearth the size of the one on the TV show, Bonanza! It keeps the chill, from blowing winds, at bay.


Tables are lined with the best of fresh sliced meats and soft rolls. Ham, turkey and rare roast beef, cut perfect for sandwiches, sit amongst slices of fresh home grown tomatoes. Vegetable, fruit, and cheese platters, line one side and trays of baby Quiche sit on a warming plate. Pasta salad, antipasto, and various chutneys, are at the end of the huge table.





A sideboard holds deserts, Angel Food cake with whipped cream frosting, Black Forest Cakes, dark and rich,  don’t overshadow the beautiful Red Velvet cake, with it’s cream cheese frosting and book cover decoration.

Oliver looks dashing as he mixes daquiris, Pina Coladas, and Fuzzy Navel’s to mention a few. Red and white wines breathe on the bar. He’s even stashed a bottle of Mead for Lyn. He makes Mary promise to be careful with the gift he gave her. She swears, crossing her heart, and he nods to her.

Sharon hasn’t missed the fact that Mary sent a note out with special courier. Lyn whispers to Sharon. “What was she up to?” She gestures toward Mary. “She’s always up to something.” Let it slide for now. The guests are here, soldiers line the fields, Southern belles and 'pretend' Southern Bells, eye the troops as they strut their stuff. With the roar of a cannon the day begins!

Sharon clears her throat and the crowd by the main entrance doors quiets. “Welcome, welcome, today we are roasting the dual authors of Craig’s Legacy.” She smiles at their guests. “Be careful with the weapons and don’t forget to get your copy of this wonderful story signed.” “Let the party begin!!!” The crowd applauds and the day of intrigue begins.

Bobbye and Linda will pick the prize. But the question… The question is, “What was in the note that Mary sent by courier and where was it sent?”


 Craigs’ Legacy Blurb:

Frankie Matthews, a 21st century financial wunderkind, is haunted by the ghost of Confederate Colonel Benjamin Craig. When she refuses his demand to go through the time portal and save him from being murdered, he uses his ghostly energy and forces her back to 1864 Virginia. Frankie is now faced with saving Ben and returning to her century, with him in tow, before she changes history beyond recognition and gets killed in the process.

Thrust back in time, Frankie is the quintessential fish out of water. She’s gone from running a major money market to a world where woman milk cows. Too bad for Frankie that the nearest she’s ever been to a cow is a “Got Milk” commercial. But to survive the Union deserters and his grasping widowed sister-in-law, Ben needs Frankie’s quick thinking and never give up attitude that has come from her independence as a 21st Century woman.

But can the two lovers span the centuries between them and find a common future?


 EXCERPT

“Come here.” He reached out to grasp her waist.

“Not until you say it. Go ahead, say it. It’s easy. It’s U-N-C-L-E.”

“Uncle,” he whispered.

“I didn’t hear you.”

“Uncle.”

“Say it loud. Very loud. Shout it for the world to hear,” she said between laughter.

“UNCLE,” he yelled. “Now, come here, you saucy bit of baggage, or I’ll throw you overboard.” As he reached out to draw her to him, he glanced at the sky and stiffened. “Damn!”

Thoughts of her, of them making love, of him inside her, of feeling her soft wetness surrounding him had so filled his mind he’d forgotten the most basic rule of boating: keep an eye on the sky and an ear open to nature.
If he had, he’d have noticed the sudden quiet. Animals had taken to the ground. Birds no longer chirped. The air smelled heavy. The heat he’d felt had come from desire, not the sun.
After hoisting the anchor, he turned back to her. “I need your help.” He handed her an oar. “Let’s make for the southern bank. It’s smoother.”

“What’s the matter?”

“It’s too quiet. There’s a storm coming. Put your back into it. We don’t have much time.” Wind hit them. Water splashed into the boat. “Shit!”

“What did you say?” she screamed.

“The wind’s coming at us from the northwest. That means trouble. Big trouble.”

“Why?”

“During the summer, the strongest storms come from that direction. The river’s tricky under the best of circumstances. The worse the wind, the more dangerous the river.” He dug his oar into the churning water.

“And anything can happen.”

“I can’t tell you how relieved that makes me feel.”

The wind-forced rain lashed at her sideways. She glanced down at her feet. The boat was taking on water. Shit was right. They were sinking.

Looking to her left, she spotted uprooted trees drifting down river. Virginia wasn’t in tornado alley, although that didn’t mean a thing. A strong gale could do as much damage.
Furiously, she drove her oar repeatedly into the water, matching Ben’s strokes. The river wrenched it from her hands.

“I’ve lost my oar.”

“I’ve lost mine, too.” The words had no sooner left his mouth then the boat groaned beneath them. The sound of splintering wood followed. Water surged through a gaping hole in the hull and along the side. “Get that skirt off!”

Frankie tore at the waterlogged garment and jerked off her cross-trainers. She knew their weight could drag her under as surely as the long, sodden skirt.

Ben lunged forward, grabbed her arm, and jumped feet first into the churning current. Frankie came up gasping, struggling for air. Using one arm to hold her, Ben began swimming toward the bank. Twigs slapped her as they roared by. Her eyes widened in horror. A tree trunk was rocketing toward his skull.

“Ben!”

Frankie knew he’d never make it if he kept her in tow. She slowed him. He’d be lucky to survive even if he released her that instant. Which given his code of honor, he’d never do. She tore free of his grasp. With a few quick strokes, she pulled away from him.

“Go!”

PURCHASE HERE

Terry Campbell Author Bio:

Terry Campbell is the writing team of Bobbye Terry and Linda Campbell. They met at a Virginia Romance Writers meeting. As critique partners, they soon learned each one had complementing talents and decided to write together even though within months of meeting, thousands of miles separated them. Pioneers in electronic publishing, their off-beat humor has been a favorite of readers around the world.

http://terrycampbell.com/index.html

140 comments:

  1. Hi, I’m Linda Campbell, half of the writing team of Terry Campbell. Bobbye Terry is the other half. Gee, I wonder how we came up with that name.

    I'll be here until 10:30 then Bobbye will step in. I'll be back as soon as possible. Blasted doctor's appointment.

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  2. Hi Linda! Like Miss O'Hara, I refused to fill up before I came so that I could sample all the goodies. Unlike Miss O'Hara, I have left the stays at home.

    A lovely party and a fantastic idea for a book. Congrats to you and Bobbye!

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  3. Welcome to your Celebration Roast Linda, and congratulations on your release.

    Good luck with the doctor's appointment, I'm sure Oliver will have something cheering for you on your return.

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  4. Everything looks wonderful, ladies. You have outdone yourself. Now if I can just learn to walk gracefully in this dress. Jeans and leggings are so much more my style. :)

    Hi Tina, Mojito sister, glad you could come...

    Bobbye

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  5. Hello Tina

    So glad you could join us for Linda and Bobbye's celebration.

    Very wise to renounce the stays, you don't need 'em! :)

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  6. We want to welcome you to this wonderful party hosted by amazing Sharon, Mary, and Lyn. And let’s not forget the magnificent Oliver who is willing to satisfy your every wish. Well, every wish that’s allowed in print on blogspot. But no touching unless one of our hostesses gives the go ahead. :)

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  7. I love your parties. You throw them as true Southern ladies.

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  8. Hello Bobbye, welcome to your Roast. Jeans and leggins are more comfy - but you and Linda both look lovely as Southern Belles!

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  9. LOL LJ - thank you for the kind comments, so glad you like what we've done for you. (I think Oliver is blushing!)

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  10. Tina, Thank you so much for coming. Bobbye came up with the original idea then together it morphed into a romance and a time travel from Hell. I ask you, what sane 21st Century woman would want to deal with outhouses, washing in a tub, no electricity, no plumbing, no email? Well, you get the picture. Poor Frankie, we did so torture her.

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  11. Hum, I just noticed the header. It isn't really Linda Campbell's Craigs' Legacy. I was the one who booked the party. Bobbye and I wrote it together as Terry Campbell. As I said earlier, she had the original idea and started it before we joined forced. 15 years later, Craigs' Legacy is as you'll read it.

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  12. Though with this weather, we may have a glimpse of what she endured. :) But not before I gorge mysellf with these goodies. You ladies may have to ease the laces on my corset.

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  13. Bobbye will be taking over for now. I have to take my husband to the doctor's. I'll return as soon as possible.

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  14. Sorry Linda - my fault I got confused. I will change the header immediately! *Blush* (I may have had a little too much mead already!)

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  15. Well, back from the goody table. have I missed anything?

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  16. Hi Bobbye, no you haven't missed anything. Let Oliver pour you a glass of what you fancy while we wait for the other guests and hostesses to arrive.

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  17. And hi Bobbye, my Mojito sister! Such a nice gala -- I think it made the sun come out down here in rainy Georgia. Congrats again!

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  18. Thanks Tina. :) All things sunny happen around these ladies. I just got a spiked OJ from Oliver. Great stuff.

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  19. Welcome Linda! Welcome Bobbye, you two look just grand. I promise to behave, I don't want to ruin my beautiful dress. I'll tell you all this underwear is hard to take, thank God that it's cold out.
    Mary pats her secret pocket, her stun gun hidden, but ready if needed. Those yankees devils! Oh wait, those Confederate devils! Oh wait, I'll take a hot one, either side! Ladies you all look marvelous!

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  20. So true about the underwear, Mary, but that cute little sucker over there in Confederate garb might be able to help me shed som. He-he. Later maybe after a few more drinks. She licks her lips. Has it suddenly gotten hotter in here?

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  21. What a typical southern party. Lots of good food, women in pretty dresses and a handsome man. Good luck on Craig's Legacy.

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  22. Thanks Ruby! I;m so happy you could make it.

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  23. What a unique presentation! Loved the whole thing...and yep, I'd have to leave the stays at home too with that oppulent display of food!:)

    Good roast! I toast you both!:)

    Loretta Wheeler

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  24. Hi Ruby and Loretta, how nice to have you at Linda and Bobbye's party. Do help yourselves to refreshments, Oliver should be around somewhere to pour your drinks.
    So glad you like our little shindig!

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  25. Loretta,
    You sly dog, you slipped in on me. Nice to see you. Psst, go over and fondle, I mean, ask Oliver for a drink. ;)

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  26. Many congrats on the release to you both! :-) the party looks fun!

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  27. Thanks, Pauline. Get some food and a glass of sparkling cider.

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  28. Psst, go over and fondle, I mean, ask Oliver for a drink. ;)
    __
    Oh no! not touchin' THAT Bobbye!:)...I will gawk though, and look a bit faint...maybe he'll drift my way. I have absolutely NO control over a man's natural protective instincts do I???;):)
    Sighing and batting my eyes..where's my fan? I can't find my fan...

    Loretta Wheeler

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  29. Oh my, Loretta, I do declare!

    (You're right though, that is one good lookin' gentleman!)

    I think your fan'ss lying around at the bottom of our post, somewhere! :)

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  30. Mary standing beside Loretta, smirks and pinches Oliver's butt! Startled he glances at Loretta, who stands right behind him. She denies it, but Mary insists she saw her do it. Loretta is flustered! Oliver takes Loretta's hand and kisses it. Promises in his eyes.
    Loretta faints. Mary chuckles as Oliver helps her up. Now that was fun! TeeHee!

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  31. Lyn having seen what Mary did, grabs her by the arm and gives her a lecture. Which Mary promptly ignores as she pinches a handsome Yankee soldier, who thinks Lyn did it! HAHAHAHA! Man this is fun!

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  32. While they're busy over there they won't see me sneaking over to the cutie Confederate. He-he.

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  33. Here Bobbye, Mary hands a parasol to her. You can use this to hide behind, when you make a pass at the hunk you have in your sites! Look at the big grin he has on his face. Yee Hah!

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  34. Hidden behind her recovered fan, Loretta watches Bobbye eyeing the southern boy...confederate my a** she thinks...I saw that bit of blue under his shirt.
    Snapping her fan closed, she patted her hair and headed in the direction of the southern fed. She'd have to do what was necessary to prove his unnatural alliance...whatever it took...no matter how long...or deep undercover she had to go...

    Suthunbelle, Lo (How lo can you go?;)

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  35. Hello, Ladies and Oliver. Could I have a mint julep? (I always wanted to say that!) Oh, and some of that lovely Virginia baked ham. Nevermind, I'll just browse the buffet table.

    In the meantime, I am so happy Craid's Legacy is available again. Terrific story. Best of luck, ladies!

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  36. Thanks Mary, but I'm going to need more than a parasol in a few minutes. Could you say hi to Caroline for a minutes. She's such a great friend. I'll be right back after I'm satisfied...everyone is having fun. :) Whoops, here comes Lo. trouble ahead.

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  37. What lovely dresses, you southern belles, and look at the food. I am so hungry just looking at these scromptious dishes.

    Nice excerpt.Linda and Bobbye.
    www.monarisk.com

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  38. Hi Caroline

    - I see Oliver heading your way with a mint julip with your name on it!

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  39. Thanks for coming Mona. How sweet are your comments! Um, Mary Lyn and Mary will take care of you. I;ll be back over there in a minute.
    I'm just comparing "reviews" with this Gray coat gentleman here.

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  40. Loretta grabs the guy in question and points out the blue shirt under his confederate uniform, the room silences. He carefully removes his coat and underneath is a tee shirt. It says, I don't know why people say I have ADHD, OOOH, look there's a chicken.
    Mary looks at Lorette who breaks out into a hysterical laugh. She grabs him. Honey that ain't no chicken, come with me. Hmmmmmmmm.

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  41. bobbye, why do you have that dreamy look on your face. And straighten out your dress, you look as if you've... Never mind, that's better, who was he by the way?
    Mary introduces Mona to a studly confederate who immediately whisks her away to dance. Don't look Sam!

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  42. I hate it when a friend takes treats out from under your nose. *Pouts* Well, there's more where he came from. Bobbye sashays off to another uniform.

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  43. Mary, not sure, but I still have a scrap of his tee-shirt as a memento. Don't know why I couldn't let go. Excuse me, there's another soldier ready for my greeting.

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  44. Have no fear. Stopping him in his tracks...

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  45. Hello, Mona, hello Caraline (well actually Caroline, I already said hello to you earlier but forgot to change my personanna. I'm not really the 'Author Roast and toast' all my myself! *Grin* Now was that another glass of mead or a mint julip I just had (hic).

    Mona dear, there's a guy in Yankee blue who will help you to the refreshments if you can find him in the crowd!

    Mmm, so many lovely uniforms, now which shall I choose next, blue or grey?

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  46. Oh, hi there Lyn. Jake was just telling me a bit about his battle technique and I shared my best techniques with him. It's getting hot in here again.

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  47. Hi all, boy am I glad to be back here. Forgive if I sound a little silly. Oliver saw me arriving and handed me a fuzzy navel--vodka, peach schnappes, and orange juice. I just finished it and he handed me another. Sigh, I do so love that man. Now to eat some of the goodies.

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  48. Drink up, Linda. I'm too busy to do that right now. Who needs a few tips now? Ah, over there in the corner. The strong silent type. They always hide their best assets.

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  49. How is everyone enjoying the party? Does Oliver need to go back into the kitchen or do we want him serving us? Umm, I know which way I'm leaning.

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  50. We're having a drawing for a copy of "Craigs' Legacy." So, know all your names are going into a bowl and Bobbye and I will have John pull out the name.

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  51. Besides, this is too much fun to miss.

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  52. My advise Linda is to try one of each. Look for the one's with big feet, like Lyn has. That's all I have to say about that!
    This party is really jammin', so many people are still arriving.
    Oh look, no it can't be! My heart be still, it's Gerard Butler in a yankee uniform. Out of my way, I have a stun gun and I will use it. GGeerrrrrrrrard, how nice to meet you dear, Oliver quick a drink for the man, if I get him a bit tipsy. Well you never know!

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  53. Well hi there Bobbye and Linda. T

    Oliver is very adept at both keeping up a never-ending supply of food and keeping the ladies happy :) Don't worry, I think he has a team of wiling elves in the kitchen so he doesn't deprive us of his company for too long!

    The guests are really enjoying the party and your excerpt. Any chance of another snippet?

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  54. Oliver, stay out here, we need the eye candy!!!
    Coming Gerard!!!

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  55. Yes, please another excerpt! The crowd roars, MORE, MORE, MORE!

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  56. Well, here's another excerpt. This one will come from the beginning of the book.

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  57. Clearing her throat discreetly, and tweaking the false eyelash that keeps trying to fly off her left eye (it's all that winkin' y'all), Loretta answers Hywela in a soft whisper. "Sugah...ah've found that if you have problems choosin' somethin', just do both...you're never quite satisfied with one or the other" she smiled sweetly,looked in Oliver's direction and flung departing words over her shoulder," TWO is always better than ONE you know...and THREE...well, that just polishes it off nicely don't you think?"
    Tugging on her skirt, she raised her arm and signaled at Oliver...Hywela couldn't quite tell "which" finger she used to signal...but it seemed to do the trick...Oliver did a 180 and sauntered (rapidly) in the belle's direction...;)

    Lola/Suthunbelle Lo/Loretta

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  58. Frankie pushed open the shower’s glass door, stepped out onto the mat, and wrapped her over-sized bath towel around her, sarong style. As she dried her hair, she focused on the problem haunting her.
    Tossing the hair-dryer into the drawer, she headed for her bedroom. As she passed the locked armoire, she halted. It’d been locked for as long as anyone could remember.

    According to Aunt Ginnie, the only reason the family kept the plain oak wardrobe was because William Craig had ordered that it never be destroyed.

    Frankie frowned as another memory returned. William Craig had also instructed that the chest was to remain in the last room his son Ben had used.

    Her gaze focused on the chest. She swallowed hard.

    “Time to get the hell out of Dodge.”
    She eased past the armoire.

    Reaching her bed, she slipped into a pair of French-cut panties, her soft, well-worn jeans, her favorite sweatshirt—a size too large—and jammed her feet into her Nike high-tops. She grabbed her satchel briefcase, containing everything she might need if stranded some place overnight on a business trip. Clutching it to her breast, she saluted the chest and headed for the door.

    As she neared the foot of the bed, the armoire doors swung open. A blast of cool, fresh air hit her face. She quickly scanned the room. It took less than a nanosecond to spot Ben leaning against the fireplace mantel with a silly grin on his face.

    “I take it this is the time portal.”
    He nodded.

    “Forget it. I’m not going.” She pressed herself flush against the bedroom wall.

    She wouldn’t be safe until she was out this room. Make that out of the house. No way was she getting near the chest. As it was, she’d pass within two feet of it during her escape. Keeping control was critical. She’d maintained it the day the market crashed over two thousand points. She could do it now. Yeah, right.

    Frankie didn’t trust Ben. He was proving to be a most determined ghost. She also didn’t believe his cock-and-bull story about them being soul mates. Nope, he had an agenda, saving his worthless hide, and to accomplish that meant her traveling through time. Not going to happen.

    As she inched her way toward the bedroom doorway, and freedom, she never took her eyes off the ghost.
    “Stay where you are,” she said, thrusting out her hand as he approached her.

    “Why do you fight your destiny?”
    “Because my destiny is in the twenty-first century. I’ve pledged my loyalty to indoor plumbing, electricity, and e-mail.”

    “A trip back to my time might cure you of your self-centered ways.”
    “Now you’ve done it, mister.” She stepped away from the wall then froze. His face held a mixture of fury, frustration, and downright sneakiness. It was that last emotion, fleeting though it had been, that sent her back against the wall.

    She resumed sidling toward the doorway, never taking her gaze off the furious ghost in front of her. As she passed the armoire doors, she flashed a grin.

    “Free, free at last.” She waggled her fingers at him. “Bye.”

    Ben surged forward. An energy blast hit Frankie. She flew into the chest and spiraled downward. Nausea assaulted her. Cold, clammy air lashed her.

    She clawed at the dark nothingness.
    “You’d better hope those damned Yankees have already killed you!”

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  59. Wall, I do declare - that Loretta shore knows how ter enjoy herself! You go fer it Honey! :) Lyn smirks, with just a tiny hint of jealousy!

    Can't wait5 for that excerpt ladies!

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  60. This is my kind of shindig--fancy dresses, good lookin' Southern men, tables piled with tasty treats (that really are calorie free today), and the best lookin' bartender I've seen in a while, ready to bring me whatever my little Georgia heart desires. Yippeee!!!! Congratulations, Bobbye and Linda. Y'all have outdone yourselves this go round.

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  61. Katrina, thank you so much for joining us. Oliver, bless his heart, is here to serve us. I say it's food and drink, but what he does after hours ... is up to him. :)

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  62. Katrina, yet another sweet Mojito sister! We've let a few Yankees join us today, sweetie, but don't let that worry your pretty little head because they have agreed to lay down arms and...well, lay down.

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  63. And that's only the beginning of our little heroine's problems. Don't you dare tell them about Beatrice, Linda, and what a slut she is. Oh hi there, handsome. Let's go over here and discuss just exactly how your uniform works. Does it have a zipper like today's men's slacks?

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  64. I promise I won't if you won't tell them about Frankie and Ben's pond scene.

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  65. Pond scene?? Beatrice a slut! Oh man I gotta have this book. Mary makes a beeline for the book table, she knocks down a few people, mumbling apologies as she rushes there. With all these people, I hope that they brought enough books!!!!! Mary notices Lyn standing by the table and she sneaks into the line by slipping in next to her. A loud road and the people in line yell for her to get to the back of the line. Mary, not willing to take the chance of missing out on this book, takes out her stun gun. She flashes it and walks to the front of the line, grabs her book, turns and stick out her tongue with a Na,na, na, na, na! and runs like hell!

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  66. *Waves madly at Lyn, Sharon, Mary & Oliver*

    Linda and Bobbye, I love that you write books together. How fabulous! Craig's Legacy sounds like a super read. Wishing you many, many sales!

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  67. Lyn regains consciousness. sticks her tongue out at Mary and slaps a couple of notes into the tin before grabbing her copy of Craigs Legacy

    Hi Katrina, welcome to the party. May I say how pretty you both look in a crinoline!

    What a great exceerpt. For me, time travel and the Americam Civil war are an irresistable combination!

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  68. Let me explain, the pond scene creates all sorts of problems for our two lovers. And Bea, well, let's say she gets what she deserves. LOL

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  69. Congrats to both of you on the new book and your collaboration!

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  70. Hi Jaqueline. Welcome to Linda and Bobbye's party. Their book does sound fantastic, doesn't it!

    Oliver should be around somewhere to serve you you virtual, non fattening refreshmens. Just watch out for Mary though, the imp has a stun-gun hidden under her crinoline, but don't tell her I told you!

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  71. Hi Jacqueline, It's wonderful to see you here. I hope you enjoy the fun.

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  72. fun party - thanks for the invite : )

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  73. David, thank you for stopping by. I hope you come. It should be hoping with jokes this evening.

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  74. Well glory be, a real live genuine male person!

    Welcome to the party David, have some of this here food and relax, there are plenty of us ladies around to look after you.

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  75. David and Jacquie, hello friends! Mingle. I am here now to talk to you folks. I, um, have been speaking with our brave men in uniform. Sky, thanks for dropping by. I'm actually penning a short story right now where Skye is the heroine. Not the same but close! Enjpy folks!

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  76. Look at the new guy..; There must be a shortage of men or somthin' they're mobbing him!
    The pond scene is mine! I can't wait to put myself in your heroines head!
    Stun gun, what stun gun. Is that the Duke arriving? I hope he brings Jessie if he comes!

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  77. Hi Linda,
    Congratulations! Sounds like a great book and I am looking forward to reading it.

    The food looks delicious, too bad I'm on a diet before going to the RT convention in Los Angeles.

    Stacie

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  78. Hi Stacie Welcome to the Roast! Lookie here, gal, you don't want to go worrying about putting on weight - all the food here is strictly calorie free! Eat, drink and be merry!

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  79. No calories in it Stacie,that's the beauty of it. Enjoy!

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  80. After all of Oliver's work, you have to virtually try the food. Mmmmmm. wish I had a butler. No, I need a maid my house is a mess!Where is Hazel when you need her?
    It wasn't the Duke, it was that guy who played Lord Graystroke was it? He sure is hot! Linda don't hog all the men!
    My, my, who are the men who just came in wearing those fancy masks?
    Interesting!

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  81. I want to know what happened to the Duke and ... wait did you say men in masks? You sure than wasn't Jesse and the James Gang? Jesse, don'e leave Hun!

    And what's happened to our sweet sister Sharon, do you think she's been kidnapped by outlaws? The Yankees, the Rebs? No - surely not!

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  82. Well, I just discovered why I wasn't getting the forwards. It's going to my gmail account. Duh.

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  83. Me thinks Sharon is in a tent somewhere on the grounds. I hope she's not rolling a round in the snow. ;)

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  84. Lyn, I heard that Sharon was on a mission of some sort for the rebs. You know I did send out that message. She disappeared right after that. I hope the yanks haven't grabbed her. She's a slippery devil!
    The Duke has disappeared too! Those masked guys could be the secret!
    What was in the note I sent? Only Sharon knows for sure.

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  85. Lol, in that crinoline? No she'd have to take it off to make a snow angel!

    Ooops! Lyn claps her hand to her mouth and blushes. Oh, I see what you mean, giggle.

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  86. Me, too. Get out your compass, Bobbye, time to go on a hunt.

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  87. Bobbye, gather the forces. We have to protect our spy against this army of Northern Aggression. :) Yes, people it's still called that in Virginia.

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  88. Damn yankees, (one of which I am), they did cut a swathe out of the county down here didn't they!!

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  89. And you Mary! (I assume you know what's in it since you wrote it!) Hmph I'm supposed to be your sister-hostess-soulsister-friend and you won't tell me what's in it! Lyn stamps her little foot and pouts!

    Well, I reckon Linda's right. we ought to organise a search party. I'll change out of this dress and get the horses ready.

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  90. Check the hay lofts, storm cellars, and attic. We need to gather arms and for protection against those Yankee deserters.

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  91. I've already thoroughly inspected the barn. Found a Confederate Captain on a pile of straw, talking to his horse ... Lyn blushes as she realises she's probably put her foot in it again!

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  92. Can't we just hire a PI? Oh yeah, that happens in my mysteries. Sorry, small slip.

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  93. Lyn, you silly goose. I told you, you just don't remember. Which is good, then if they capture you, you won't know what's in the note. So you can't tell! (If I keep this up, I won't remember myself)!
    Mary changed and ready to start the search confiscates a couple of men from both sides to look for Sharon!
    We can take them home later!

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  94. Gasp. You gave succor to the enemy! Oh, my. Was he worth it, I mean, would I have weakened.

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  95. Oh hell, yeah. I remember when...Whoops, I zip my lips.

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  96. You did? Lyn looks puzzled. Well, I've slept since then!

    Anyway, the horses and men are saddled and ready - I mean the horses are ready and the men are - oh well never mind, let's go start this search.

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  97. Yuh know I must've been drinking too much mead - between the Yanks and the Rebs and the James Gang and the Duke - I clean fergit who's side I'm supposed to be on. Now that Reb soldier he told me plenty - but then so did the Union Officer - *Smirk*

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  98. Told or showed? She asked with raised eyebrows.

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  99. Well Bobbye - you know what they say - show - don't tell! :)

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  100. Ladies! Kisses Lyn and Mary, thanks for holding down the fort whilst I escorted Sharon to her heart function. It was a Red Dress luncheon charity to raise awareness of heart failure in women. The luncheon was started last year in memory of one of their own who died suddenly of heart failure. She was an ICU nurse.
    It was a lovely affair and I want to stress to you women the importance of taking care of yourselves. Women do far too much today, putting everyone else. first. Ladies, please pamper yourselves, or allow me to do so. As you know, we nearly lost our Sharon in August when she had a massive heart attack and stroke. I've insisted that she go to bed early She tires easily when we walk, lugging around a 10 pound heart pump. I put her to bed with a cup of Chai tea.
    In the meantime I have a pitcher of Mint Juleps, tea sandwiches and chocolate covered strawberries. Enjoy!
    Bobbye and Linda, congratulations You ladies are the essence of Sweet Southern Comfort. All this grace and beauty in one room makes me a happy man. Party on in true southern style whilst I go check on Sharon. I'll just put the refreshments on the sidebar. Remember ladies, take care of your heart health. I love you all, good nite my lovelies

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  101. What a sweet gesture. I hope Sharon gets plenty of rest.

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  102. Well now you know where Sharon was!
    I forgot to ask her if she delivered my missive!!!
    Well, I got a yank who is draggin' me away!! He's cute so I think I'll go. See you over the weekend! Tomorrow will be a long day!
    Booksigning and our FRW own, Heather Graham will be there! Yeah!
    Gulp, I have to speak after that...
    Wish me luck! Come on yank before the Duke tries to grab me!

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  103. I hope Sharon's okay. Tell her to relax and we'll keep them from quartering the troops in her house and stealing her things.

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  104. Lyn throws her arms around Oliver's neck while planting a kiss on his cheek and a chocolate covered strawberry between his lips (and one between her own of coure.)

    What a treasure you are, Oliver, thank you so much for taking care of our sweet soulsister hostess. It's such a relief that she wasn't kidnapped after all. (We ladies had to drag all the men out to the hills to look for her, such a hard task but someone had to do it, LOL!)

    I'm glad you told her to have an early night and get plenty of rest, wish her pleasant dreams from us and thank you so much for the refreshments, and the wise advice.

    What do you think of Linda and Bobbye's book? It looks fantastic, but I don't suppose you've had chance to look through it yet, don't worry, we'll save a copy for you, I think there may be one or two left.

    Now you'd better get back to the boss lady, we'll down a glass or two in your name!

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  105. Oliver took me into the kitchen, settled me on his lap, and had me read the pond and Beatrice slut sccenes to him. Then he wanted to hear the scenes after the storm. We both enjoyed the experience immensely.

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  106. Tut tut, and he told me he was getting straight back to Sharon! ;)

    Well I'm sure he did enjoy those excerpts, I'll bet he did - I've certainly enjoyed the bits I've read.

    It's getting late in this dimension so I'll be disappearing in a bit. I'm just going to induge in a few more of these goodies Oliver so kindly left us. If anyone else drops in over the weekend you're very welcome - party on, there's plenty of food and the party doesn't end until the fat lady sings - oh I forgot, there are no fat ladies here - well you know what I mean!

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  107. I just bet you did. She said patting her foot on the floor. I;m off to find a willing soldier. :)

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  108. I've found a captain who wants to warm my bed.

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  109. Hi Ladies,

    Craig's Legacy is a wonderful read - well done to Linda and Bobbye! Frankie and Ben make a delicious couple. I love it when sparks fly between the hero and heroine. Yummy.

    To our lovely hosts, thank you for a splendid bash and as this little chickie has been dieting since October, I'll make the most of the calorie free nibbles. :-)

    Cheers,
    Fe (Fiona)

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  110. HI Fe, you still here. I hope so. I just stepped away for a few minutes.

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  111. I'm in and out. About to start off some cario on the x-trainer. The thought of Oliver seeing me eating my heart gave me the guilts! ;-)

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  112. Ah, Fe, Oliver likes us just they way we are. That's what makes him "The Man." :) Sigh.

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  113. Thanls for coming by, Fe. I love that you did right after your debut work. If you haven't read the whole book, I hope you will, and of you have, we'd love to have your review. ;)

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  114. Well see now, that just makes him even hunkier than before! But really, I should be telling you how yummy I found Ben, since he's the hero of the hour.

    And yummy he was, have no doubt. I'd be happy to jump into a cupboard and transport myself back to visit him anytime...well, as long as I had a full Latte to tied me over.

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  115. For those of you who want to buy Craigs' Legacy, it's easiest to get it at ARe.

    http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-craigs039legacy-513943-141.html

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  116. Well, I have to say I love time travel and this one looks very interesting. Congratulations and many sales.

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  117. The sun peeks over the snowclad hills and turns the snow to gold.

    Inside the hunters lodge, in front of the blazing log fire, The hostesses, guest authors, Linda and Bobbye and their guests lie around on chairs and chaise longues, wrapped in the arms of a grey or blue uniformed hunk. There seems to be a huge pile of discarded hoop petticoats by the door well it's difficult to sleep in a cronoline you know!

    the aroma of breakfast cooking wafts in from the kitchen. Oh, I see we have some new guests - hi Fiona and Patsy, thanks for joining us at the Release party of CRAIG'S LEGACY.

    And to Linda and Bobbye, writing as TERRY CAMPBELL, thank you so much for being such amazing and brilliant guests of honour and for making the party such fun.

    Oh, and if there are any stragglers out there, come on in, it's 'open house' at the Author Roast and Toast.

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  118. Great idea. Loved the posts. Congrats to Terry Campbell.

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  119. Hi JD

    Oh we love having visitors of the male pesuasion! Welcome to Bobbye and Linda's celebration, thank you so much for visiting! (One of the ladies will helpn you to refreshments shortly.)

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  120. Bobbye yawns as she wakes up. Oh hi J.D. Thanks for stopping by. Wow what a party last night, Lynn. Great fun!

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  121. Thanks P.L. For a second I thought you'd gone home. Home you enjoy Craigs' Legacy.

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  122. Good morning Bobbye, yes it's been quite a party hasn't it. (I believe I may have had a teeny drop too much mead, I've just noticed I can't spell 'crinoline'! :)

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  123. You ladies are the greatest! I can'tthank you enough for doing this. *smiles*

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  124. It's been an absolute pleassure Bobbye, we've really enjoyed having you and Linda as our special guests.

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  125. Oliver sits before a raging fire in the hearth, a happy man. After feeding Linda and Bobbye a country breakfast of bacon and pancakes, scrambled eggs and sausage and pots of premium coffee, the ladies sit on his lap, one on each knee whilst he turns the last page of Craig’s Legacy. He kisses them and smiles.
    Bravo ladies! I dare say you’ve outdone yourselves. Congratulations on an outstanding book. Standing, he answers the door. He returns with two huge glossy white boxes. With a roguish wink, he hands each lady her present, a dozen red long stemmed red roses. HAPPY VALENTINES DAY, MY LOVELIES!

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  126. Oh, Oliver! You big sweetie. How thoughtful and romantic. Bobbye batts her eyelashes. I'll have to repay you for your thoughtfulness.

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  127. Bobbye and Linda, you gals rocked the page in true southern style. Y’all can come party with us at the roast any ol’ time. Something ‘bout those confederate soldiers gets my heart pumpin’ faster than my cardiologist would deem healthy!
    Best of luck with Craig’s Legacy, although rumor has it, it’s selling quicker than Oliver’s hot cakes. But before y’all leave, can you help me and Lyn hunt down the soldier that liberated Mary’s fake hooters. She gets a bit snarky when they go missing.

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  128. You're a sweetie, Sharon! Sorry about the hooters. Didn't think she'd miss them. Guess I'll just leave them on the doorstep? Take care of yourself. I love partying with you gals too. I have a solo one coming up in March. Until then you Southern lady. ;)

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  129. If you guys don't stop losing my hooters I am gonna be pissed!
    Fun for you guys yeah, but me, I have to go looking for my boobs...

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  130. Once in a while, I feel like a little extra. ;)Always wanted to be Bambie Woods.

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  131. What fun. Sorry I missed the party the other day. It was freezing here and hard to get out and on the road.

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  132. Ah, some of us are still munching on leftovers. Thanks for stopping by!

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  133. Hi Maryanne, so glad you stopped by! There are always plenty of leftovers at our 'Roast' so latecomers are more than welcome.

    Thanks again Bobbye and linda, for being such fabulous guests - it's been such fun, and we look forward to seeing Bobbye again in March.

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AUTHOR ROAST AND TOAST

AUTHOR ROAST AND TOAST
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WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE OUR GUEST? DO YOU WANT TO PROMOTE YOUR NEW RELEASE OR EVEN AN OLDER ONE?IF YOU FANCY BEING GUEST OF HONOUR AT ONE OF OUR PARTIES JUST EMAIL US AT THE ADDRESS in 'OLIVER'S RULES'!(PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A 'G' RATED BLOG SO NOTHING HIGHER THAN THIS RATING, PLEASE.)