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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, March 18, 2011

A Spring celebration with Roseanne Dowell

 A beautiful spring day. The scent of  green apples and peppermint wafts through the cottage. The buds are budding, the air is clear and fresh and the birds are chirping - if you can hear them that is, above the excited chatter of the hostesses as they prepare for their latest guest, Rosanne Dowell, to celebrate her latest release 'Stranger On  The Shore'.


The three hostesses are getting ready in one of the spacious guestrooms, while in the kitchen, Oliver is preparing a feast, perfect for such a beautiful spring day. Cream of brocolli soup, garden salad,  Lobster tail, Prime Rib au jus with horseradish sauce, Roast Turkey    Garlic Mashed Potatoes, mixed vegetables and for dessert a choice of Pina Colada Mousse, and French Chocolate Chambord Cake, decorated with a sugar copy of Rosanne's book cover.

"I'm really looking forward to seeing Rosanne again," Mary gasps as she adjusts her sexy red backless top over her larger-than-life hooters. "We had such fun with her  'Christmas In July' party last year.
"I know," Sharon grins as she eases her ample butt into a pair of tight silk trousers, it's nice to have a spring celebration today though, it's been a long hard winter and I'm so glad the sun's shining and the weather's calm. We might even be able to go boating out on the lake, afterwards."


 "Lake - did you say lake?  I didn't realise."  Lyn rushes over to the window, nearly tripping over her oversize sling-backs in her haste.  Yes, the lake can be seen clearly from the windows at the side of the house, as well as from the roomy conservatory.  "Look at the way it sparkles in the sun - and are those waterlilies, on the far side? Isn't it beautiful!"
"It certainly is - and Rosanne's heroine, Jordan, lives in a cottage by a lake too, I wonder if she'll drop in today."
Sharon slaps her on the back and giggles.  "Mary! I think you ought to rephrase that!"

Mary starts chuckling as she realises what she's said. "Well, you know what I mean - and if anyone falls in the lake today, no worries, we'll just use Lyn's shoes as a boat and row out to rescue them!"

Lyn's grin freezes on her face and she scowls at Mary. "That's not funny Mary, I don't know why I let you girls choose my shoes every week - and how could I have picked a pair of trousers that aren't long enough to hide them? It's quite embarassing you know."


"Yes, you shouldn't tease her," Sharon scolds, "you know how sensitive she is about her feet. She might just hide one of your hooters in retaliation."

"Now there's an idea."

Mary clasps her hands to her chest as Lyn reaches out her hand with a wicked gleam in her eye. Sharon leaps forward to Mary's defence, trips over Lyn's feet and grabs Mary for support and the three of them end up in a heap on the floor, just as the doorbell rings.

Oliver in his cool white teeshirt and black jeans, grins to himself as they fumble around trying to pick themselves up.  He's used to their squabbling and knows how much they love each other really.  He opens the door and there stands Rosanne, looking beautiful and elegant in a long flowing jade cotton dress and sunhat, with designer shades. Oliver bows low, presents her with a bouquet of  spring flowers he's gathered fresh from the garden, and escorts her to the conservatory where he places a chocolate martini in her hand.

The hostesses rush in and hug her, begging for copies of her book. A stack of her novels, with'Stranger On The Shore' in pride of place sits on a sidetable in the dining room waiting to be signed.

So without further ado, let the party begin - and for your chance to win a copy of Roseanne's book leave a comment and answer this question - what for you is the first sign that 'Spring Has Sprung'?

Blurb for Stranger on the Shore
Author, Jordan Blake lives in a house along Lake Erie. She’s a recluse and likes it that way. No interruptions while she’s writing. At least not until that day in October when an early Lake Effect Snow storm brews up. Not that she minds snowstorms. Far from it. She loves them. While she’s on her deck securing chair cushions and chairs, something along the rocky shoreline catches her eye. A body? Hard to tell from where she stood. Not being one to ignore someone in need, she rushes across the yard. It’s a body all right–a male’s body. Thank God he was alive, but unfortunately unconscious. After much pulling, rolling and pushing, Jordan manages to get him to her house and finally inside, undressed and into something dry. Jordan finds herself strangely attracted to the man.
More than a storm rages inside and out.
 Excerpt from Strange on the Shore
“Darn, it’s getting cold.” Jordan shivered and zipped her sweat shirt.  She hated storms, hated thunder and lightning most of all.  Grabbing at some papers that flew across the deck as the wind picked up, a movement caught the corner of her eye. Something washed up on the shore. Something big. A body?
Jordan jumped off the deck and raced toward the craggy shoreline.  Dark clouds hovered across the lake. Cold water splashed against her as waves crashed against the rocks like angry arms hurling water at an invisible enemy. The crash of thunder echoed across the lake. Ducking her head as lightening streaked across the sky and the air crackled with electricity, she thought she must be nuts. Probably just a bunch of old clothes washed up. Still, she had to see for herself.

Surely, no one in their right mind would be in the water this time of year? There had been storm warnings on the radio all morning. No one would be stupid enough to ignore the forecast. Would they? Heavy rain and strong winds then turning to snow, with a drastic drop in temperature, and blizzard-like conditions weren’t anything to ignore. Jordan winced as lightning flashed again, back-lighting the dark clouds.  Darn it, she wanted to be inside cuddling by the fire not out here in a storm. For two cents, she’d turn around and go back. But something drew her forward.

A man’s body against the rocks.

Oh, Lord, please don’t let him be dead. She had planned for a quiet weekend, writing. A weekend with a corpse wasn’t on her list of quiet. But she couldn’t leave him out here either.

 Jordan came closer and stooped down next to him. Lifting his head out of the water, above the crashing waves, she felt for a pulse. Thank God, he’s alive. Now how to get him out of here? She grabbed his arm, rolled him over and tried to pull him from the fury of the lake. Wave after wave pounced on him, their foamy peaks trying to reclaim him. Lord, if she ever needed help, now was the time.  Struggling to roll him to higher ground, she lost her breath. His long, muscular frame outweighed her slender five foot two body and felt like dead weight.

 “You’re going to have to help me.” Jordan grunted and gasped for breath when the full force of icy waves pulled her down and washed over both of them.
No response.

“Damn it. I can’t do this alone.”

Still no response.
Great, how was she going to pull him to safety? “I hate to do this, but I see no alternative.” Jordan took a deep breath and pushed him over, rolling him like a barrel and trying to avoid cutting him on the sharp rocks. It wasn’t easy, but at least he moved.

“Come on!” Jordan tried to encourage some life from his limp body.  Once he was far enough away from the waves, she stared at him for a moment, before leaning down to give him mouth to mouth. His long straight nose, eyes set wide with bushy eyebrows and the grin on his lips, even in his unconscious state, sent a ripple of excitement through her body.

Not a handsome man, but something about him caused heat deep inside her. Shrugging off the urge to run her fingers through his curly black hair, she began mouth to mouth. When her mouth touched his lips, opened them slightly, something familiar tugged on her heart. She hadn’t touched a man's lips in, what, three years. This wasn’t exactly the way she imagined touching them again. Not that she ever imagined it. Never even thought about it. She’d had enough of men to last her a lifetime.

Roseanne Dowell

Roseanne is the mother of six, grandmother of fourteen and grandmother. She teaches writing classes at Long Story Short Writing School - http://www.lsswritingschool.com// You can find more of Roseanne’s work at Amazon.com, just type in her name. Besides writing, Roseanne enjoys reading, quilting, ceramics, and making jewelry. She’s a member of NEORWA.

Stranger on the Shore, Double the Trouble, A Second Chance, May I Have this Dance,And They All Fall Down and Elusive Mission releasing in 2011 from http://tinyurl.com/22ppkmp


Purchase Stranger On The Shore HERE
http://roseannedowell.com/http://www.lsswritingschool.com/
http://roseannedowellauthor.blogspot.com/
http://twitter.com/roseannedowell


 
***GIVEAWAY***
To win a copy of Roseanne's book, all you have to do is just  leave a comment and your e-mail
address.
Contest ends tomorrow and everyone who comments is elligible.

107 comments:

  1. Welcome to your Roast, Rosanne, it's great to have you here - we're dying to know more about 'Stranger On The Shore' and it's so good to have some spring sunshine after a hard winter!

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  2. Kisses Roseanne love, you look absolutely delicious. A thousand welcomes to your party. Enjoy your chocolate martini and do dig into some of the munchies. Allow me to do the honors, a dabbling of everything it is then.

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  3. Lyn love, kiss kiss. A glass of cool mead for my pretty.

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  4. All right, boss lady, no I didn't forget to fetch your perfectly chilled chardonnay, no need to scowl. Sigh, you look hot and no, your butt does not look big in those sexy trousers. As long as you don't turn around, he mutters to himself.

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  5. What a lovely place Rosanne chose for this party. Spring is my favorite time of year. Why I chose a backless top I'll never know. No bra and as they say 'one hung low' LOL
    I love the excerpt Rosanne chose and I can't wait to read her book!
    Now Lyn, we choose the best shoes we can find for someone with such big feet. Not a lot of shoes in your size!
    I think the pants Sharon chose may her bubble butt seem smaller. (ever thought of a girdle to pull that platform in some Sharon?)
    Oh, for a perfect body. I knew when I had these babies made they'd be trouble. Please don't throw them in the pond this week. The pond is not as clear as the ocean and I will never find them. Wait, did they float last time? Hmmmm. Life is something huh?
    Go, Rosanne, go!!!!

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  6. Big bear hugs Mary, you look divine in your backless sundress. Yes, a strawberry smoothie for you love. And, by all means, try an' hang onto your hooters this week. How soon they forget last week, I had to arm wrestle a sea dragon for one!

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  7. LOL, you guys are crazy! Rosanne, Stranger on the Shore looks amazing and I can't wait to read it. As for how do I know it's Spring? First, because I can open the windows to let the sunshine in while listening to the birds and second when I can put the sunroof up and not worry about rain pouring in my car! Can't wait to see how this Roast goes. Too funny!

    Val

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  8. Lyn rushes over from where she's been sampling a sneaky dish of pina colada mouse. She hugs Rosanne, then each of the hostesses and Val, in turn.

    What a lovely day it is, Oliver, *sigh* big kiss, and thanks so much for the mead. You really are a treasure!

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  9. Last week I was singing, "My hooters lie over the ocean, my hooters lie over the sea. If Oliver didn't find them. I'd look like I lost part of me!" Hey, I get a lot of attention with these babies!!
    Pina Colada moose?? Oh, I thought you meant there was a moose here. Wait there is one. Holy Moley!!!
    Look out Sharon. Not looking Sharon is head butted by a huge hairy moose!
    She flies up in the air and lands on her butt. Thank goodness.
    Lyn a flyswatter will not help now.
    Don't chase him with that. UHH Lyn LOOK OUT, WOW, I never saw anything like that. I...HERE IT COMES HELPPPPP!!

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  10. Oliver kisses Val and hands her an apple martini. You look like a breath of spring, love. Off to rescue Sharon, can none of you damsils fend for yourselves!

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  11. Sorry, I'm late. Gosh, I hate unexpected happenings in my life. Toilet was leaking, ran downstairs on to a stack of boxes. What a mess. But I'm here now and let the party begin. Hello everyone, I'm so happy you could join me today. And a beautiful Spring day it is here too. Nice to shed the winter coats!
    Oliver, you've outdone yourself. Eveything looks delicious and thanks, I can really use that martini.

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  12. Oh this food is excellent. Thank you so much, Oliver. I can't believe how hungry I was. Hywela and Mary, you look great.

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  13. Oliver I need another Martini, please.

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  14. What a pain that happening Rosanne, but honestly, one would never know, you look amazing - not a hair out of place, what's your secret?

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  15. Well that was the other reason why I'm late. Had to stop at the beauty shop. Glad it paid off. Thanks Hywela. So what would everyone like to know about Stranger on the Shore?

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  16. Hi, I'm Jordan Blake, author (yes, just like Roseanne and a darn good one, I might add) and heroine of Strange on the Shore. I'm so happy Roseanne invited me to join all of you. Oliver, your desserts are to die for. It's nice to be able to indulge and not worry about weight gain. I think I'll skip the main course and head straight to the dessert table.

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  17. Hi Jordan,

    It's so good to see you, we've heard so much about you from Rosanne.

    Wow, that was a gripping episode of your story Rosanne told us - I really want to know more now, and I'll bet everyone ele does too. Who was this stranger you found and how on earth did he come to be there near your home?

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  18. Well, I can't tell you too much because I don't want to give away the whole story. But I will tell you he was a hunk out fishing. God knows why anyone would go out on Lake Erie fishing in October with a snow storm predicted. But he did and his boat sank, he washed up on the shore unconscious. What a feat to roll his six foot something 190+ soaking wet body off the rocks, across the sand, up onto my deck and into my house. I honestly don't know how I did it.

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  19. Golly Jordan, that was some feat! Sounds like he was worth it though!

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  20. Well, I wasn't sure. Especially when he didn't know who he was. For all I knew I rescued a serial killer. Although he didn't look like a killer. But hey, what does a killer look like anyway?

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  21. Shiver - you have a point there, Jordan, what DOES a serial killer look like?

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  22. Hi, Roseanne and Jordan!
    I know it's spring when I can open my patio door and hear the music from the Volo Auto Museum just behind my back yard. :-)
    Hugs,
    Rochelle
    author@rochelleweber.com
    www.rochelleweber.com

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  23. I have no idea, but this guy was fantastically nice.

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  24. Martinis all around, my lovelies. Oh look here comes Sharon, bouncing one of Mary's hooters up the tulip lined path. Looks like she had to take a jaunt in the lake, she's sopping wet but still looks hot!

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  25. Hi Rochelle - great to see you here for Roseanne's party - do help yourself to food and drinks, Oliver will be with you in a moment.

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  26. LOL Sharon, what have you been up to sweet sister-hostess, don't tell me you took Jordan's story to heart and tried to find your own man in the lake?

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  27. Here I am, sisters, thank God for Oliver coming to my rescue as no one here at the party even noticed I was missing. Aw, someone has to keep track of Mary's loose cannons, tough job as it is! Maybe it's spring but one would never know it by the temperature of the lake Thank you, sweet Oliver, a hot chocolate martini would hit the spot, just what I need to stop my teeth from chattering. And a bblanket and you've started a bon fire, thank you. Good man, sending Mary home with a pot of chicken soup to ward off the cold.I know, duty calls and you must go off to work as a top GI man. Save the women and children

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  28. Hello Roseanne, congratulations on what sounds a fabulous book. You look lovely, spring is so festive with all the wild floweres in bloom.
    Jordan, nice to meet you. Eat, drink and mingle, just beware of the water. As the saying goes, looks can be deceiving.

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  29. Aw poor Sharon! Lyn tries to stifle her giggles - Sharon looks like a wet puppy! "Ah you absolutely sure you were just having fun with Mary's fake hooters and not trying to fish for a man?

    Gosh, you're so lucky to have Oliver to look after you! You'll soon warm up by the bonfre, and look, the sun's gettng really strong now!

    So tell us, Roseanne, where did you get the idea for this story from?

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  30. Hugs, Lyn dear, you bet a big bear hug to share the love. What's a little dripping dirty icy cold lake water between sisters? lololol

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  31. Greettings, Rochelle, so happy you helped yourself to one of Oliver's delicious chocolate martinis.They are to die for.

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  32. Lyn slips her arm around Sharpon's shoulder, a bit guilty for laughing at her. "You're drying out nicely now, dear sister. Gosh Roseanne's book sounds so intriguig, I really want to know more!

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  33. Roseanne, now that the bon fire is blazing up a blue streak, and we all have fresh martinis, what say you read another tantalyzing excerpt whilst we warm ourselves and get comfy

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  34. Hi Ladies - running in circles today but wanted to stop by. The book sounds great and loved the interview/party scene. Spring, my favorite time of the year.

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  35. Sniffle, snort, blows nose. Fighting off the bug! Hey, stop bouncing my boob will you Sharon!
    Otherwise I'll use your butt for a tray holder! I could carry a whole suckling pig on there!
    Oh look at the fire, I love a bonfire!
    I love to watch the flames. Lyn move your feet I can't see it.
    Ah! That's better. Now let's watch the flames and see if Rosanne will post another excerpt.
    Oh Oliver, can I...
    Thanks, you're a doll!

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  36. Hi Patsy

    So glad you could come to Roseanne's Party, sit round the bonfire and partake of the refreshments!

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  37. Hi everyone. Waving. Another great feast. Yum, yum! Roseanne your book sounds wonderful. What a wonderful place for a celebration. The first sign of spring for me is seeing a robin and then my flowers slowly showing signs of life.
    Sue B
    katsrus(at)gmail(dot)com

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  38. Hiya Patsy, welcome and right on time! Since Roseanne seems to have slipped out of her own party, we're about to roast marshmallows and watch the sun set. Such a gorgeous spring evening, such a shame the guest of honor isn't here at her own party to enjoy it with us! That's ok, either we can sing campfire songs or tell ghost stories.

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  39. Welcome Sue, plenty of food left, so grab a heaping plate and join us by the roaring fire. Look, there's a robin!

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  40. Did I hear roasting marshmellows?? Mmm,mmm. And a nice fire. Is sure is a great evening.
    Sue B

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  41. Oh my gosh, this day started out bad and turned worse. I lost internet service this afternoon and just now got back online. I'm so sorry I missed this party. Looks like everyone had a great time. Oliver is there any food left over? I sure could use some cream of broccoli soup. Sharon, I hope you recovered from your dip in the lake. It's a bit too early for that I'm afraid (at least in my neck of the woods).
    Thanks to Rochelle, P.L. and katsrus for stopping by. I'm sorry I missed you. And I do so love roasting marshmallows.
    Hywela,Oliver, Mary and Sharon, you guys are the best for keeping this going while I was absent. Sure hope my next roast goes off without a hitch. My apologies to everyone.

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  42. Thank God you're safe Roseanne! I was just about to send Oliver into the lake looking for you. He's around somewhere and will certainly find you some soup. Sorry you had such a trying day, I hate when that happens!
    Yes come sit around the fire and warm yourself. Our parties go on all weekend, so feel free to post another fabulous excerpt, we'd love to hear more. I'm plenty warm now but certainly won't be testing the water again any time soon.

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  43. Yes Sue come roast marshmallows with us, what fun and would you just listen to the song birds, a sure sign of spring.

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  44. Here we go then, Roseanne, a steaming bowl of cream of broccoli soup, love. Enjoy while I get breakfast cooking.

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  45. An hour later, the delicious smell of bacon and sausage and fried potatoes waft over the lake as Oliver grills on an open pit. Hot cakes sizzle and steaming pots of coffee, tea and hot chocolate simmer on low heat.

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  46. OOh - what's that? Someone mention hot chocolate? Oh, all right then Oliver, just a little drop of mead in it then, thanks so much old chap.

    Ooh, I must have doppeed off . So glad you're OK Roseanne, we were afraid you might have fallen in the lake. And we have another guest, one of our 'regulars'. Hi sue, great to see you. Well it looks like another lovely day, want me to go and wake up everyone asleep in the conservatory?

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  47. What a great blog - now following it and looking forward to more roast and toast! Love the sound of that book, Roseanne.
    ros_gemmell@hotmail.com
    http://romygemmell.blogspot.com

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  48. Hi Rosemary, so glad you like our blog - welcome to the party - and yes, doesn't Roseanne's book sound great!

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  49. I'm glad someone was still around. Some days nothing goes right. Okay, here's another excerpt.

    Dried and warmer, Jordan picked up the telephone to call emergency. The man needed help.
    Someone must be looking for him. The dead phone line didn’t surprise her. Darn it. Why didn’t I
    take my agent’s advice and get a cell phone? Thankful they still had lights, at least for now, she
    found the emergency candles, flashlight and matches. In a storm like this, it wouldn’t be long before
    the power went out, too. At least with the gas heat and stove, they’d stay warm and be able to cook.
    According to the forecast, this storm wasn’t going to let up for at least a day.
    Jordan crumpled some newspaper, tossed some kindling and logs on top, and lit a fire in the
    fireplace. Inhaling the warm smoke emanating from the logs slowly beginning to burn, she leaned
    back and watched the flickering flames. Nothing like the sweet smell of cherry wood burning.
    Something about the glow of the fire gave her a homey, warm feeling.
    Humming a tune, Jordan hurried to the kitchen to make hot chocolate to warm her chilled body.
    A quick glance out the window showed rain quickly turning to snow. Wind whipped across the
    deck, snatched up a cushion, and whisked it across the yard. It was going to be one heck of a storm.
    The cupboard door squeaked when she opened it. One of these days, she’d remember to oil the
    hinges. Still, the sound comforted her like an old friend. The house was old and the cabinets original.
    They deserved to squeak. A paint job was in order, too. The white on the cabinet doors had yellowed
    over the years from the gas stove. Why hadn’t she noticed that before? So absorbed in her writing
    and trying to forget Derek, she hadn’t noticed much of anything. The crack in the counter seemed to
    jump out at her. She shook her head. It was time to spend some money getting this place fixed up.
    Jordan jumped, startled at the sound when the stranger groaned and moved. For a
    minute, she forgot he was there.
    He sat up, staring at her from across the living room. “Where am I?” His voice cracked.
    “Who are you?”
    “I made hot chocolate, would you like one?”

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  50. Roseanne takes a spoonful of soup. Oliver, you can come and cook for me anytime. This soup is delicious.

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  51. Coffee? Did someone say coffee? Quick give me a cup. What a heavenly day aroma.

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  52. Hi Sue, glad you could join us. Let's let them sleep for a while longer.

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  53. I love this blog. Thanks, Rosemary, I'm so happy you joined us. Stick around and have some breakfast.

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  54. I've just had lunch, thanks, Roseanne - it's 1.45pm here in Scotland! And there's enough sunshine today to make it feel almost spring-like.

    Enjoyed your next excerpt. Will add to my TBR list.

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  55. Wow, Rosemary, I forget about the time change. Enjoy the sunshine. Yesterday was gorgeous, today is cloudy and cooler. That's what we expect for this time of year here in Ohio.

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  56. Ooh, another great excerpt, thank you so much for sharing, Roseanne, this really sounds such an intriguing book!

    And Rosemary, lovely to meet a fellow Celt (I'm Welsh) The time differences can certainly mess things up can't they, but the internet is a wonderful way of bringing us all together despite the miles and timezones!

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  57. Hi Hywela - I did wonder about your name! My brother-in-law is Welsh and he and his wife live in Bangor.

    The Internet is a fabulous place to connect with people. My first novel comes out with a Canadian publisher in May so I'm learning from blogs like this and other writers like Roseanne!

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  58. Nice to meet you Rosemary. Yes, I know Bangor well!

    Congratulations on your forthcoming release. You're welcome to be roasted here if you fancy it. We're booked up until the second half of June, but we could arrange something after that if you wish. We love to promote new authors, as well as established, prolific writers like Roseanne! :)

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  59. That's a great way to learn, Rosemary. Check out my blog and website also. I hope you're going to do a Roast. Everyone here is so helpful and fun. I'm planning another for June and can't wait to do it again. Don't wait too long to book it. The dates fill up quickly.

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  60. Rosemary, if you decide to do a roast, email me. I'd love to join you. (rodow62 at yahoo dot com.) My next one is scheduled for June 17th.

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  61. Hi again, Hywela and Roseanne. That's so kind of you - thanks. I'd love to do a roast (once I fully get the hang of it!). Do you have any space available in June?My son gets married on July 1st, so I'd need to avoid the few days before and after that (of course)!

    Roseanne - I'm away to look at your blog.

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  62. Thanks, Rosemary. It's a very versatile blog. I've been told not to write only about my books. I'd be willing to do an interview for you and maybe do a guest spot on your blog if you're willing. I find helping other authors promote their books, I also promote mine. The only thing I request is no erotica. My blog is for all ages.

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  63. Hi Rosemary, we only do Roasts on A Friday (usually spilling over into the weekend) but the 24th is free if you'd like it. What Rosanne said, pretty much goes for us too. (Thanks for the kind words, by the way, Rosanne). No erotica, but any other genre is fine.

    Have a look at Oliver's rules on the main page here. We do ask authors to give a download or a small price, as we fnd that encourages people to visit and comment. That's all we ask though - and make sure your friends know when you're appearing.

    If you'd like the 24th, let us know and we'll send you details of what we need, if that's too close to your son's wedding, we are free all July when Rosanne's being roasted again! (Some people are gluttons for punishment, LOL)

    Romance writers are a lovely, supportive lot and if we can help each other 'get the word out' we love to do so.

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  64. Hi Roseanne. I've had a reading and writing blog for over a year at: http://ros-readingandwriting.blogspot.com

    I've been a published short story and article writer for years and often do interviews on that one (it has more followers). My other blog is a newer one for my novel. I'll contact you through your blog and arrange something with you.

    And don't worry, I don't write erotica! My novel is a Regency romance. Better go and get on with my proofs.

    Hywela - maybe I could contact Roast & Toast soon to arrange my own fun day.

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  65. Just saw your comment, Hywela! I'd love to book the 24th June if possible. As I mentioned to Roseanne, my novel is a Regency, and no erotica at all!

    And I should have lots of friends willing to join in on the day.

    Thanks so much again to both of you.

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  66. Sounds great. Anytime works for me.
    Glutton for punishment, you say, lol I love doing this. I'm only sorry I wasn't able to be here all day yesterday. The first time I did this was such fun. I'll be posting the winner of the contest either tomorrow or Monday.

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  67. Mary walks back to the rest of the guests looking haggard and disheveled. Well I finally found my boob. You'll never guess where it was. Someone had attached it to a kite and I found it at the top of a huge tree. You can imagine how hard it was to get up there, never mind the fall from the bottom branch. I landed in a heap and yes all the squirrels laughed.
    Loved the excerpt, gotta go jump in the lake!

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  68. LOL Mary - as we'd say in Wales - you're a 'case and a half!' :)

    Now you be careful in the lake, those hooters aren't water wings you know!

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  69. But they float I swear. I have seen it when I skinny dip!!!
    Well off for a refreshing swim, oh wait, maybe home for a shower and new clothes. Then back to the party!!!

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  70. Oh, my, Mary. I hope you didn't injure yourself. Be careful, that lake is awfully cold.

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  71. Hi Roseanne. The excerpt for 'Stranger On The Shore' sounds intriguing. I love the stormy weather and fishing the guy out of the lake. Thanks for the invite!

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  72. Thanks, Jenna. Help yourself to some food. Oliver is a wonderful chef.

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  73. ...and don't follow the antics of our sweet sister Sharon and think you can find a man on the shore, like Roseanne's Jordan.

    We love having you Roseanne, sometimes the fates combine to throw a spanner in the works, but we just spit in their eye! :)

    Rosemary -we'll book the 24th June for you and will be in touch shortly to work out the details.

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  74. Yes Rosanne it's freezing. But us Vermonters with a touch of Abenaki Indian can take it!! I'll just jump in!!!!
    AAAAHHHHHHHHH! Well maybe not...

    Great excerpt, I have to go find my hooters. Lord knows what my blog sisters have done with them now to tease me. Hey is that Sharon bouncing one of them. Hey Sharon stop that!!! And Lyn,those are not to be used as cushions!!! Do not sit on my boobs!!

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  75. That is not a coconut either. Give them back and stop running away you two!
    Rosanne can you help me to get my hooters back from my mischievous sister hosts!
    I need them back!!!

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  76. Ah, Mary, sounds like you better keep those things under lock and key. LOL Have some soup and warm up from that lake dip, then you can chase down your hooters. You guys are a riot. I love it here.

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  77. Heee heee hee can't catch me- here Sharon, quick, catch!

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  78. Ro intercepts the hooter and holds it for Mary. Wow, this is softer than I thought. Geesh, how do you keep these things contained? Big as they are, I'd think they'd make excellent floatation devices. LOL

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  79. Roseanne,
    The more I see of this book, the more I want to read it!! Congratulations on your roast. The setting is ideal and beautiful. I can almost smell the flowers. The food is spectacular. Do you have any cosmos here? Or maybe a nice cold glass of Chardonnay? So happy to be here to help celebrate. How did you know it was a fantasy of mine to find a six foot tall hunk with amnesia?

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  80. Thanks, Help yourself to whatever you want. I'm sure Oliver can find you a glass or bottle of chardonnay. So that's your fantasy. Hmmm guess we'd all like a tall, dark and handsome hunk, wouldn't we. Thanks for joining us. Oh I thought I saw some cosmos on the other side of the cottage.

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  81. Hi Lionmother, welcome to the Roseanne's Roast - yes her book sounds wonderful doesn't it, and isn't it a gorgeous cover!

    Oliver will be along any second to attend to your every whim. He's amazing, and can conjure up practically anything to suit the taste of every guest!

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  82. The cover was done by Muse cover artitist, Delilah Stephans. She does beautiful work.

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  83. CRASH! From up yonder in the tulip path, Sharon rolls both Mary's hooters, plowing down Mary and Lyn into the lake. Sharon gives the high five to Roseanne who doubles over with laughter. Just another Roast and Toast!

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  84. Hee hee, hello to all our wonderful new guests, so glad your party's still going strong, Roseanne, and bravo, fantastic excerpt!

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  85. Mary walks her way over to her hooters. Puts them back on and heads after Sharon. Run Sharon, run for your life. I am gonna put leeches on your bubble butt. And you Lyn, tight shoes!!! BRRAAAAHAHAHAHA!!
    I'll get you my pretties!!
    Yes, they keep me from sinking to the bottom. Now I am gonna tell you whats in them! Super powers, AAAHHH. Now run sisters run! I am gonna get you big time!!!

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  86. Wait I see in the distance. Yes, YES, it's the Duke. Get them for me Dukey baby. You look pretty good at 21. Come on let's get 'em!
    Hi Ho Silver, wait wrong guy.
    Up up and away. Gonna throw Sharon in the lake!!! Lyn, like I said you are getting those small shoes you always wanted. To squeeze those big foot feet you have! Never mess with Mary!!!!!By the way I can fly, see through thing, leap tall buildings in a single bound, I got it all!!!!
    Back later!! This is such fun!!! HeHe!!You can't touch me now!

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  87. Ro stands back and giggles. This is more fun than a circus. You ladies are a riot. I love this Spring celebration. I wish more people had joined in, but I'm happy to see the ones who showed up.

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  88. Be still my heart, don't look now but the JAMES GANG is stampeding down the tulip path. In her haste to make sure JESSIE sees her, Sharon accidently on purpose plows Roseanne, Mary and Lyn down like dominos
    JESSIE BABY, OVER HERE GIVE US A KISS!

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  89. Hey Roseanne-what a great Roast. This is a super blog. What a brilliant concept. Anyway, about your Stranger on the Shore. Talk about the unexpected dropping in your lap. Can't wait to find out who he is and why he's at Jordan's place. With spring representing rebirth, I wonder if the stranger will be symbolic for a rebirth in Jordan's life. Can't wait to find out.

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  90. Ladies, ladies, this party's getting a wee bit wild, so I brought a tray of refreshing Cosmos to cool y'all down a bit, along with some munchies. Strawberries, raspberries, fresh whipping cream, tortilla chips and salsa and a nice assortment of cheese, crackers and veggies. Dig in!

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  91. "Hey," Roseanne picks herself up and dusts off her dress. "What happened to a simple 'excuse me'? Ha, Can't help but laugh as Jessie ignores Sharon and walks toward Mary, offers his hand and helps her up.

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  92. Hi Cindy, glad you could join us. Hard to tell what he has in store for Jordan. Only way to find out is to read the book.

    Here's another excerpt:

    “I made hot chocolate, would you like one?” She poured two mugs of hot chocolate,
    without waiting for his answer, went to the living room and held one out to him. “I’m Jordan
    Blake, and you are?”
    He struggled to his feet and towered over her. Jordan stifled a laugh when he noticed
    the too short robe. Holding the mug with one hand, he grabbed the blanket and held it in
    front of him.
    “Who...What...Where am I?” His gaze darted around the room.
    “You washed up on the shore. I assumed you must have been fishing, Mr...”
    He tightened his grasp on the blanket and let out a low whistle.
    “I’m...” He shook his head, turned in a circle. “I don’t know who I am. Where am I?
    What am I doing here?” His knees buckled, the cup fell, spilling its contents all over the
    floor. Jordan rushed to help him to the couch and eased him down just before he passed out
    again.
    She sat next to him, brushed the hair from his face and ran her finger gently along his
    cheek, down to his lips. Soft lips, gentle lips. Lips begging to be kissed. She leaned down,
    brought her lips to his. Inches away, she came to her senses. Stop it, Jordan. What’s wrong
    with you?
    She moved away, not liking the sensations he aroused in her. If he affected her like this
    while he slept, what would happen when he woke up? She needed to distance herself from
    him and moved to a nearby chair, picked up her laptop, opened it, and worked on her new
    novel. The irony of the title page made her chuckle, Stranger on the Shore.

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  93. Ah, Oliver. You always know how to difuse a situation. Thanks the strawberries are excellent.

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  94. Wow the celebration is still going strong. It was a working day for me. I loved the hot chocolate excerpt. I hate beaing without internet. Not fun. I get major withdraws. LOL.
    Sue B

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  95. You're not the only one who gets withdrawals. I was going nuts not being able to get on, especially knowing what I was missing.

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  96. Well, my friends, it's been great, but today is my daughter's birthday and we're off to her house to party. I'll check in when we get back to see if we've had any new visitors. I'll announce the winner of Stranger on the Shore tomorrow. Have a great evening. Hugs and kisses to all.

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  97. Kisses Roseanne, you've been great fun. Happy Birthday to your daughter!

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  98. Happy Birthday to your daughter.
    Sue B

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  99. Yes Happy Birthday to your daughter, Roseanne, and thanks for being such a fun guest of honour.

    Welcome back Sue and welcome to the Roast Cindy. so glad you like our fun party - Rosanne's book sounds fantastic doesn't it!

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  100. What a great excerpt! Got my attention. Can't wait to read the whole book. Thanks so much.

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  101. Roseanne,

    It looks like you have alot of people who love you. And you look devine in your clothes. Don't Oliver give you a hard time.

    Teresa K.
    tcwgrlup41(at) yahoo.com

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  102. Rosanne,
    I forgot to tell you Stranger On The Shore sounds wonderful.

    Teresa K.
    tcwgrlup41(at) yahoo dot com

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  103. Hi Jo Ann and Teresa, welcome to Roseanne's party!

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  104. Hi Everyone, the party was fun. It usually is when we all get together. There's about 30 of us (and that's just kids, grandkids and great grandkids). We're quite a group, ages 7 months to 68. We cover all the bases. Daughter turns 44 today.

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  105. Glad you had such a good time with your family Roseanne, sounds such fun. Congratulations again to your daughter.

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  106. And the winner is Cindy, but I need your email address. Please send it to rodow62 at yahoo dot com, and I'll send you a copy of the book.
    Thanks to everyone who participated. Even though the internet acted up, I had a great time. Thanks also to everyone at Author Roast and Toast for hosting me. I look forward to the next one in June.

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  107. Thanks so much, Roseanne, it's been great having you as our guest and we look forward to hosting you again in June, see you soon!

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