Friday, May 30, 2008

P-P-PARTY!!!!



by Jeanne Adams

It's time for a LAUNCH PARTY!!! Everybody grab your hats and streamers. The countdown to Sunday, June 1, begins....five, four, three, two, ONE!



BLAST OFFFFFFFFF! My first, debut novel, Dark and Dangerous, has reached bookstore shelves - it's been sighted in Kentucky already! - and will be out everywhere, June 1, 2008.


Of course, like any office party, I have to give the obigatory speech. Tap the water glasses with a knife so everyone quiets down. Get the microphone. Okay. Here is is. Party Speech.

You know, its the one that begins with:

"Wow. It's been a wild journey. When this book was young, merely an infant idea, it won the Dixie First Chapter contest. The editor, from Harlequin, requested it. Before I could finish it, the editor left on maternity leave....."

(Note: it's a good idea to have an idea how the book is going to end if you're entering it in contests. Oh, and to have more than 50 pages of it written.)

Oh, and the speech has to have that part in it that's really inspirational, and mentions your team, your friends, your coaches...

"But finish it I did. It labored unappreciated in a LOT of contests. A LOT. Really. Then a friend dared me to really dig into it, really apply all that I'd learned at National and in online courses and really polish the darn thing. Hmmmm. I can never resist a dare. She also dared me to enter it in the Golden Heart."

Then, in the middle of the speech, you have to have a black moment, where there's a bit of despair, the thought of giving up...

"I wasn't sure I could finish it. But I did. It took another nudge from my friend, but I sent it in to RWA. I never thought it would do anything. I had become quite jaded about the contest circuit, I must say."

Then a milestone! A success!

"So, when in the midst of a plotting session with several authors, held at my house, I received a phone call from a stranger saying I'd finaled in the Golden Heart? Ummmm, are you sure you mean...Me? With what? Really?"

You could have knocked me over with Brad Pitt and a gun....oh, sorry, just HAD to put that pic in there. Feather, yeah, Brad Pitt and a feather...or just Brad.

Sorry. Having a moment...

Now where was I? (Quick, non-speech note about the GH - Enter if you can. Really. It's more than worth the $50 if you final. Just look what's going on in the Lair, if you don't believe me!)

But I digress...Back to the Party Speech:

"I went to conferences, I went to National. I had editor agent appointments. I wrote."

You have to wrap up the speech with a triumphant moment....

"Then, one day, I got THE CALL. You read that story last fall, so I won't repeat it today but WOW! What a life-changer."

Everything since then has been a bit of a blur, but everything came into sharp focus the day my author copies arrived. I had a BOOK. With MY name on the COVER. YIKES! Then it was reviewed by Romantic Times, and they liked it. I felt like Sally Field..."You like me, you really like me!"

LIFT YOUR GLASSES....DRINK.....End of the obligatory Party Speech. Now we can get to the FUN part...

We'll see what you and the rest of the world think as Dark and Dangerous heads out to stores and to homes, bookbags and beaches here in June. In the meantime, call over a Romance Bandit cabana boy, get a margarita or a glass of chardonnay - pick your poison, and our bartender will serve it up.

It's time to PARTY!!!!

What's your celebration this month? Got a birthday? Anniversary? Escape to the beach? I need to know too, what you're drinking today in celebration? Margarita? Jack and Coke? What's your favorite party libation? Oh, and would you do a body shot with Nick Stokes or Bond, James Bond? Bwah-ha-ha!

Share the celebration with me. One lucky poster will get a Dark and Dangerous Beach Read gift, complete with a brand, spanking new copy of....drum roll please....you guessed it, DARK AND DANGEROUS!!!

120 comments:

Jane said...

Woohoo, a Launch Party. Congrats on the book. Are you stroking the covers of your author copies? That is one hot cover. I like fruity cocktails like mango margaritas, lychee martinis and anything with coconut rum. I would definitely do a body shot with Nick Stokes or any of the James Bonds, including Daniel Craig.

Loucinda McGary aka Aunty Cindy said...

CONGRATS Duchesse!!!

And AGAIN with the GR, Jane?!?! SHEESH! You two are quite the couple. Plus, great minds, I'll do a body shot off one of the Bonds, preferably Pierce or Daniel. And has anyone besides me tried the new strawberry-raspberry margarita at Chevy's? YUMMY! All the frosty red drink is the perfect foil to the HOT blue cover on D&D!

Donna MacMeans said...

Super, Fantastic, Incredible
CONGRATULATIONS !!!

Please note fellow party participants, that not only did Romantic Times like it - they LOVED it! 4 1/2 stars TOP PICK loved it. Can't do much better than that!

Pour me a Desert Pear Margarita, or a Jack & Diet Coke. Heck, pour me both, we have serious celebrating to do. I'll still be partying next week - so check with me then.

Helen said...

Congrats on the GR Jane

Huge congrats Jeanne I have ordered my copy and should have it in about 10 days time and can't wait to read it.
Can I have a cabana boy bring me a scotch and coke please while I sit back and party with everyone.
Then when the book arrives because the weather is cool down under I will sit back with some Tim Tams and a nice coffee and read a great book.
Well Done
Have Fun
Helen

Christine Wells said...

Hey, Duchesse, you sure know how to party!! I brought Sven along in case anyone needs a massage with those cocktails. Make mine a G&T, please! And I'd take Nick Stokes, but Sven might get jealous, so I'll leave him to you, Jane.

Congratulations on the release of DARK AND DANGEROUS, Jeanne! You have worked so hard, now it's pay-off time! Woohoo!!

Ohh, the Golden Rooster is all dressed up in a tuxedo for the occasion. Isn't that sweet? Congrats, Jane!

Jennifer Y. said...

WOOHOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Congrats! I have been waiting on this one since I learned about it and I am thrilled for you! I can't wait to get a copy!

Minna said...

CONGRATULATIONS!

Cliff Richard - Congratulations
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23ZG6HJVKuQ

Tawny said...

Yeah, baby!!! Its party time :-) Wooohooooo Duchesse! Super excited for your debut and cannot wait to curl up with my pomogranite margarita to read it... altho if we're doing body shots, I'll take two and Johnny Depp, please. Oh, and Madame's cabana boy for a massage chaser...

Margay Leah Justice said...

Congratulations on the book! How exciting for you. This month, the most important thing I will be celebrating is my little one's 15th birthday. yikes! Can't believe all that time has sped by already. But, I am not a drinker, so we will celebrate the day with lunch at my favorite Chinese restaurant. Fried rice and egg rolls - now that's something I can get drunk off of!

Joan said...

Woohoo!!! Jeanne!

I LOVE launch parties. I LOVE debut authors! Major congrats!

I've got my copy of DD waiting for me to dive into this weekend. You worked hard, girl and deserve to party hardy!

My party contribution are my Roman boys...they've been practicing an interpretive dance which may or may not involve tunic removal :-)

Maureen said...

Congratulations!! The sun is shining here for you today. This month we are celebrating with you since it is our anniversary in May.

Tiffany Clare said...

I'm drinking tea :) It's early.

Congrats... Now I wonder, can you concentrate on anything aside from the book hitting the shelves? It's got to be beyond thrilling.

My son turns seven this month. We are doing African lion safari. And that is about the most excitement I have. OH Chapters/Indigo has a huge sale in June, but three books (mm) and get one free. I haven't bought an mm in months, I've been saving them for the sale :) So heads up Canadiennes... there be a great sale round the door, and just in time for Jeanne's book!

Deb Marlowe said...

Whoo hoo! Many, many congrats Jeanne! Can't wait to read it!

pjpuppymom said...

Congratulations Jeanne! I can't wait until DARK AND DANGEROUS shows up in the stores here so I can snatch a copy off the shelf, run home and dive in! I'll take a strawberry margarita please. Oh, and a little time with Pierce would be nice too. :)

I don't have any special occasions in June but I'll be leaving on the 28th for a week at the beach. That's more than worthy of a celebration in my book!

Terry Odell said...

Add my congrats to the list. So excited for you.

Wendy said...

Congrats on your book!! :)

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Whooo-hooo, Jane! There you are again. Congrats on the Golden Chook!

Fruity ones, eh? Ever try Trashcan Punch?

Have to agree with you, both men are scruptious.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Oooh, AC - color coordinating drinks with my cover. I LOIKE it!

And isn't Daniel divine as Bond?
YUM!

Jane and AC, what are you celebrating in June?

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Donna, I like the way you think. A two-fisted drinker. I'm going to have to try Desert Pear. Sounds light and slurpy. As hostess today, I'm keeping light on the drink so I can make sure everyone's having fun, but I'm making a list....

Oh, and I know what YOUR celebration for June is...drum roll please...release of The Trouble with Moonlight! (Donna's second fabulous book)

Isn't it cool that some of the Banditas are on to their second (and third, Tawny!) releases!?!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi Helen! Thanks in advance for the read. :> And ooooh, cool weather coffee and a good book. I like it. But for today, we'll send the handsome young man right over with your drink.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi Christine! Could I borrow Sven for just a few...yeah, right there at my shoulders....thanks, Sven. :>

Its so lovely that you brought him. Oh, here's one of our delcious cabana boys with your G&T.

Jane, thanks for getting the Golden Rooster dandied up for the occasion.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hey Jennifer! I'm *bowing* in your general direction, Jennifer. You were so kind as to have me come blog with you and start the ball rolling on telling everyone about Dark and Dangerous! Thanks!

Wow, was that all the way back in February? Seems like just yesterday.

So, Jennifer, whatcha drinkin' today? Our bartender stands ready to pour - straight coffee to start the day, a latte? Somethign stronger or sweeter? :>

And what are YOU celebrating in June?

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Thanks, Minna!

Oh, Tawny, a Pomegranite margarita. Sounds 'lish.

What are you two celebrating in June? Tawny, I know for you it might be that fabulous new cover on the sidebar. It looks HAWT! Much like your other wonderful covers...

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Oh, and Tawny, I'm presuming Johnny vs. James or Nick, yes? Body shots with Johnnny....oh, my.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Margay, getting a BOY to 15 without majoy mayhem is a celebratory event, for sure! I have two - 8 and 3 - and I'm hoping they don't drive me to drink MORE before they're 15. Ha!

So, egg rolls all around! Yeah! (Thanks for bringing food. We probably need it to keep everyone from overindulging.)

George, the chef, is whipping up some fabulous hors d'ouvres and canapes. I just rang him up when you started talking about the egg rolls.

Grins.

Dina said...

Congrats Jeanne!! :)

Don't enter me in the drawing as I am waiting (patiently, lol) for my copy that I won from you in s previous contest. The cover that I have is such a tease.

Have a great day all!

Beth Andrews said...

Whoo Hoo!! Happy Launch Party Day, Jeanne! So excited to read Dark and Dangerous and so thrilled for your awesome 4 12 start Top Pick in RT!!

I love me a strawberry margarita or Captain and Coke - yum! Actually, I have the Captain (have you seen those commercials? Too funny *g*) just need the pop to go with it :-)

Margay - I love Chinese food! What a great way to celebrate a birthday. Hope you all have a wonderful day *g*

Gillian Layne said...

Huge Congratulations!!! :)

I can't wait to read Dark and Dangerous; sounds like the perfect summer escape. I'll be sipping this concoction my hubby makes, I have no idea what it's called but it requires OJ, pineapple juice, coconut milk, rum, and a couple of aspirin the next day. ;)

My "baby" turns nine this June, my darling middle daughter turns 13 in July, so we celebrate all summer.

I hope your debut party ROCKS! (And I've always been a fan of historical interpretive dance, Joan :) )

Anna Sugden said...

WOOOHOOOOOOO Duchesse Jeanne - nothing better than a launch party!

Especially when you have said launch book in your hot little hands.

Since it's the off-season for almost all hockey hunks, they are ready to par-tay big time and wow are there some hot bodies to do body shots on.

Oooh - who'd a thunk Nick Stokes had such an impressive bod. Go CSI! And Daniel Craig - oh yeah!

And if P226 is lurking somewhere - who is the hot lady you'll be doing body shots off?

Anna Sugden said...

Oops forgot my bevvy of choice - a Mojito or a Pink Halo or a Jack and ice.

Oh and congrats to Doglady on your request!

doglady said...

WOOOOOHOOOOOO! PARTY! MONSTER CONGRATS TO DUCHESSE!! Happy Happy Launch Day! Are your feet touching the ground at all?


Jane, people are talking about you and our Golden Boy, you know.

Oh Cabana Boy! Fetch me a ginger ale on the rocks please. With a twist of lime!

I would definitely do body shots off Nick Stokes! The boy would need chapstick on his abs before I got through with him. Anyone want to dust him for prints?

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Ooooh, Joanie! I can't WAIT to see your delightful Roman hunks. Interpretive dance, huh? Hmmmmm. Not usually into that sort of modern stuff, but for your guys, I'll make an exception!

So what are you celebrating in June, JT?

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi Maureen! Congrats on the anniversary. Pull up a cabana boy...I mean a chair, and party with us. :>

Tiffany, tea is just fine. You can upgrade to somethign fruity later, or just stick with one of the best beverages on the planet - tea. :>

And that's the way to party, BTW, at a book sale. Hold on to your wallets! Heehee. Congrats on your 7 year old. My oldest turns 8 in June - another celebratory moment. (BTW, weren't they just born...like...yesterday?)

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Thanks, Deb! And PJ, leaving for the beach in the last week of May IS celebratory! Ahhhhhh, the ocean...and one strawberry margarita coming right up!

Oh, cabana boy!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Thanks, Terry! Thanks, Wendy!

What are you two celebrating this month? And Pierce or Nick? Or Brad? (Hubba-hubba!

Are you drinking today? Cold or hot? What can we get you? (Diet Coke's on the house...what am I saying, everything's on the house! It's virtual!)

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi Dina!

Yep, your copy is ready to post as I just got my box of author copies! Woo-hooo! I got to hold it in my hot little hands...what a total, total thrill.

So, pull up a chair or take a dip in the Bandita pool and have the cabana boys swim over with a drink.

What are you celebrating this month?

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi Beth! One Captain and Coke, coming right up.

Beth I checked for your fabulous June release, Not Without Her Family, when I went to Borders yesterday, but we were both still MIA. :>

So I know what YOU'RE celebrating - among other things. You've got a release too.

*taps glass, whistles to get everyone's attention*

Everyone! Raise your glasses and toast BETH because her book comes out within days as well! YEAH! BETH!!! WOo-hooooo!

(Great cover on the sidebar too, Beth!)

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi Jillian! Welcome to the party. Oooooh, sounds like you need to sneak hubby out of work today and let him come bartend with Stavros, the sleek and sexy bartender. Even if he just whips up a batch of that Mystery Punch and heads back to work, I promise he'll get an eyeful....ha! It's rowdy in the Lair today.

Great fun on the Birthdays, Gillian. Looks like my son is in the year between Gillian's boy and yours. We'll have to commisserate as they get older. Ha!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

G'morning, Anna S! Mohito it is. Nothing like a little mint on a sunny morning, eh?

And the hockey hunks are welcome in the Lair, as always. They can practice shots too....heh-heh-heh.

Yes, we must get P226 to tell us who's the best Bond Gal...C'mon P226, you know you have a favorite. And they have such "interesting" names, you know.

Grins.

Wait, Doglady got a request! GO, PAM, GO!!! Another celebration!! Whooo-hooo!

*taps glass again, whistles. Gets the hockey hunks to all shout "HOY!" at one time*

Thanks! Everyone! For those who missed the news (ME!) Doglady, Pam, got a request!!! WOW!

We know what you're celebrating, Pam!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Oh, there you are, Pam! WTG, girlfriend on the request!! One icy ginger ale with a twist is on it's way.

And yeah, I'd dust Nick Stokes for just about anything...prints needn't be involved...

SNORK on the needing chapstick...you so funny!

happyinsocal said...

You GO GIRL!! It was great to have lunch with you yesterday and to SEE your book on the shelves--makes it so stinkin' real. PARTY!! Raising my martini glass for you...even though it's before noon here...it IS Friday!

Esri Rose said...

Huge congratulations on your new release, your fab RT review, and your great cover, Jeanne!

Kammie said...

Congratulations on your release! I have your book on my wish list.

My favorite drink is a frozen strawberry margarita. Yum! Perfect for a celebration.

Marilyn Brant said...

HUGE Congrats, Jeanne! Celebrating here with you in a very rainy Chicago--but your release is a day brightener! Sounds like a fantastic book!! :-)

jo robertson said...

Whoooo hoooo, Jeanne! Congrats on your debut novel. We've all been waiting with bated breath for the arrival of D&D. Amazon should be shipping my copy out (along with Donna's TROUBLE WITH MOONLIGHT, which also is due out June 3 and Robert Crais' new Jack Reacher book) soon. So you're in excellent company, my girl!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

LEAH!! SO great to see you here! Pull up a chair. We've got cabana boys, they can get you a chocolate martini, and a fan. ;>

Lunch was so fun wasn't it? Now I know you have some news to celebrate for June. :>

Esri, thanks so much! What can we get you from the beverage center? What are you celebrating?

Kammie, we already have a pitcher of strawberry margaritas made up. Pull up a chair and have one. :> It's perfect for "beach reading" - just like Dark and Dangerous! (*shameless plug*)

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi Marilyn! It is cold in Chi-town, but it's HOT in the Lair. Pull up a stool at the cabana, let our boys fix you something. What'll ya have? :> What are you celebrating?

(Speaking of Chicago and celebrating, my household is celebrating the Cubs win the other night in the 10th inning!)

Jo, I love that I'm in such excellent company as Donna and WonderBeth! :> I haven't found Beth's book on the shelf yet either...but I'm hoping it and Moonlight will be there this weekend.

You'll have to tell us what to get you to drink, Jo? Virgin Mary? Strawberry Smoothie? Its still early out there on the left coast, I know. :>

You have some fun things to celebrate in June, don't you Jo?

jo robertson said...

Oh man, I just checked on my Amazon order and they're not shipping those books until June 9. I am gonna run over to Borders and see if they're on the shelf there, and if they are -- phhhffftt on Amazon.

BTW, it was Lee Child's new Jack Reacher book that's due out same date. Still, might good company, La Duchesse!

anne said...

Congratulations! Enjoy this great celebration. Wonderful party time.
I am celebrating big time this month as well. May is my 38th anniversary.

jo robertson said...

Awww, geez, how could I forget about Wonder Beth's Not Without Her Family? Okay, I'm leaving right now to check on these three books. Mr. Child -- well he can just take second place to the new amazing books of Banditas Jeanne, Donna, and Beth!

petite said...

Congrats. on the book launch and this great party. Looks impressive and fabulous.
I am celebrating this month as well. My son's graduation from Medical School.

ruth said...

Wow, a real launch party. Love it. COngratulations on the lovely book and much success.
SO much fun and great festivities.
May is my favorite month of all. Lots to celebrate. My daughter's wedding which was lovely and great times for all.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Wow, Anne! Thirty-eight years is fabulous! You GO girl! :> Want some champagne to celebrate?

pearl said...

Congrats! Looks like a great party and time to drink and revel.
This month I graduated with my degree in social work after 6 years of school. Now to land a job. Have fun everyone.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi Petite! Now THAT's a cause for celebration. Medical School. IM-Press-Ive! :> Which one? Has he chosen a specialty yet?

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Yeah, Ruth! A wedding is such great fun. :> Now, put your feet up and let Sven massage your shoulders. As Mother of the Bride, you've had a lot of stress in the last few months! :> What can we get you to sip on?

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

WOOO_HOOO, Pearl! When Sven's done massaging Ruth, he needs to move on to your shoulders. School - wow. Graduation...Priceless! :> Congrats on the degree and *here's* to job hunting!

Now, grab a drink and we'll toast the degrees, brides, MDs and anniversaries so far.

Ready? TOAST!!! *clink, clink, clink*

cheryl c said...

How exciting for you! Congratulations!!!! Today in my family we are celebrating that my youngest son finished his first year of college and got a summer job and my oldest son just bought his first house.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Yeah, Cheri2628! Those are some wonderful milestones. :> Grab a flute of champagne and pull up a cabana boy..I mean chair. Sven's doing massages, so wave him over to work on your neck and shoulders too.

jo robertson said...

Well, fiddlesticks! Neither Borders nor Walmart have your book today, Jeanje -- a pox on both of them. Nor do they have Beth's or Donna's.

Guess I'll be waiting for Amazon after all!

Anna Sugden said...

Jo - did you mention the super lovely Robert Crais? He's one of the nicest guys - absolutely adore him!

beth said...

Oops! Forgot to mention what I'll be celebrating. Certainly my first release - can't wait to see three Bandita books on the shelf!

We're also celebrating a niece and a nephew graduating from HS and another niece just graduated from college.

And since my son now has his driver's license, I'm going to celebrate letting him run most of my errands ;-)

If you really want to see me celebrate, find me in late August (when school starts up again) *ggg*

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Well, drat, Jo! Thanks for trying! Here, let Sven rub those tired tootsies, from all that running around searching for books. Hate that you have to wait for Amazon, though. :>

*going to look up Robert Crais* Hmmmm....

Beth, yahooooo on all the graduations. Ummm, are you sure a son driving is cause for celebration? Well, there are those errands - more time for writing! Yeah!

And I SO know what you mean about August. Camp starts soon, but it just isn't the same as having them in school...

Christie Kelley said...

Woohoo, congrats, Jeanne!!! Enjoy the moment. I can't wait to read it.


Sorry I'm posting so late in the day. I've spent the morning driving all over looking for hula hoops for the 5th grade graduation party. The hoops are to make the Olympic rings because that's are theme. Now I have to paint them.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

OMGosh, Christie, that's a chore. Here, grab just a quick celebratory beverage before you settle into painting. Hmmm hula hoops. That's gonna be challenging...

Jennifer Y. said...

Jeanne, it was an honor to have you. I had a lot of fun having you on the blog.

And I got so excited for you that I forgot to tell y'all what I was drinking...I think I will stick with soda...or iced tea. My last online hangover wasn't that fun.

Unless y'all can recommend something better. I am willing to try something new.

As for what I am celebrating in June...June is a BIG birthday month in our family...my niece turns 2, my twin nephews turn 5, and my brother turns 35. Throw in a Father's Day get-together and we will be busy.

Hellie Sinclair said...

Wooot!!! Congratulations! Awesome cover!! I've seen this front and center at the bookstore last night!

Me, drink-wise, a Miami Vice or a Pain in the Ass.

Miami Vice is pina colada with a layer of strawberry daquiri on top.

PITA is pina colada with a layer of rum rummer.

I love my calories and my rum, apparently...and Tropical Liquors here in Missouri has the best drink. They're all frozen/frosty drinks, sweet, and you don't know you're drunk until you're already gone. I think the "medium" (22 oz) has 5 shots in it, or so they claim. It sure feels like it.

Jane said...

Woohoo, the party is still going strong. I think I need a refill. Maybe we could order a plate of fried dumplings. The GR is looking quite dandy in his tux. Thanks for hosting such a great party, Jeanne.

Fedora said...

JEANNE!!!! Woohoo!! Party in the Lair!! Where are those cabana boys?

Huge congrats to you!! And I love celebrating releases -- exciting for the authors and I know good reads lie ahead for me ;) My kids are celebrating the imminent end of the school year, but I'm not sure whether that's entirely a good thing ;)

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi again, Jennifer! We've got a pitcher of sangria - not so bad for hangovers - as well as some virgin strawberry daquiries. Sweet tea, lemonade, ginger ale with a twist...what ever your heart desires.

Father's Day! Oh, we have to celebrate THAT in June, for sure. The original hero - Dad. :>

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Wooo-hoooo! MsHellion that is wonderful that you saw D&D at the bookstore! Yeah!!

Loved the sound of a PITA. As to the "under the table before you know it" deal, I get that with Long Island Iced Tea or Electric Lemonade. Wheeeeee!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi again, Jane! The GR's hanging with the hockey players and the Romans. Looked like some kind of card game to me....he'll probably be a whole lot richer by the end of the evening. He's learned some carp sharping from SOMEONE.

Put your feet up, let one of the boys get you another cool one. :>

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Flchen1, the end of the school year is ONLY celebrated by the kids, I fear. Ha! For me it means SO much more driving...camp, pool, all that.

Terri Osburn said...

Oh, Cabana Boy! One Kamikazi over here please!

I can't believe I almost missed a party. Of all days for that trasformer to blow and my office to have to shut down. Gah! I should have checked here before the nap.

WHOOOHOOOOOO!!!! Love the speech, love the cover and it just so happens I'll be near a B&N in a little while. It could be there already, right? Maybe? I'll be sure to report if I find it.

Big congrats, Jeanne. I love it when you Banditas throw a party. LOL!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Ooooh, Terrio, you brave woman! A Kamikazi. That's high-wattage.

Hope it IS there at the B&N. It's been spotted in Kentucky, in Maryland, and several other places, so hopefully where you are too. :>

Thanks for the compliments on the speech. I tried to keep it brief...I'd rather oogle Nick Stokes.

I haven't heard anyone tell me in a while who'd they'd do body shots with....you know, salt, lemon, tequila, sexy man...body shots. :>

Cherie J said...

Congrats on the release! How exciting for you! Pina coladas for me. Hubby and I are looking forward to celebrating our anniversary on June 10th. We are leaving the kids with my mom and sister for a few days so we can go off and celebrate so I am starting feel excited about that upcoming vacation. We are counting the days.

Jennifer Y. said...

sangria - not so bad for hangovers - as well as some virgin strawberry daquiries. Sweet tea, lemonade, ginger ale with a twist...what ever your heart desires.

I'll take one of each...I need them...LOL

And you know...anytime you Banditas want to invade my blog, you are always more than welcome!

Kim Castillo said...

Hot damn, a Bandita party and my gal, Jeanne's throwing it! WOOHOO!

In honor of this awesome book coming out I baked up a chocolate cake soaked in vanilla cognac. Can you say nummy?

I haven't spotted Dark and Dangerous YET, Jeanne, but I'm checking Wal-Mart everyday so I can snag a copy!

Congrats Babe!

Tawny said...

Oh, and Tawny, I'm presuming Johnny vs. James or Nick, yes? Body shots with Johnnny....oh, my.

Hon, I'll do body shots off Johnny ANY day - over any other guy (including, on some days, hubster himself LOL)

Lesseee, celebrating in June... the end of school, Beth's release, I do love that hawt cover ;-) thank you -although I'll really celebrate that in September. Oh oh - celebrating turning in my current book. Oh yeah, I want to celebrate THAT!!!

Pat Cochran said...

Sounds like it's been a HOT TIME in
the Bandita Lair today!! Sorry to be so late today - Dr. appointments!
My very best "Best Wishes" to the
"hostess with the mostess!" WAY TO
GO, DUCHESSE!! I raise my tall glass
of iced tea to you - Congratulations
on the release of your new book!

Pat Cochran

Trish Milburn said...

Woohoo! Party, party, party! I got my copy of Dark and Dangerous yesterday. I just have to meet my deadline so I have time to have a reading binge day. Okay, it's obvious I don't watch CSI because I had no idea who Nick Stokes was. Can I say neither and just take Brad instead? :) Or the ever-wonderful Orli? :)

Oh, and my celebration for the month was my birthday yesterday. And hopefully I'll close out the month by finishing the outline I'm working on.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi CherieJ!! COngrats on the anniversary! June weddings are so wonderful, aren't they? Grab some bubbly, or a soft drink or the "poison" of your choice. Just flag down a passing cabana boy!

I'm guessing, with that private parent time, you'll choose your hubby for body shots rather than Nick Stokes. Grins.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi again, Jennifer, just flag down a cabana boy, he'll fix you right up. :>

I'm putting you on my daily visit list, Jennifer. You always have SUCH interesting guests!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Kim said: "...chocolate cake soaked in vanilla cognac. Can you say nummy?"

Oh, yeah, I can say nummy, for sure! :>

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Tawny said: "...celebrating turning in my current book. Oh yeah, I want to celebrate THAT!!!"

Oh, yeah, me too!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Thanks, Pat! Oooh, here comes the cabana boy to freshen up that tea. Would you like some more fresh lemons?

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Trish said: Can I say neither and just take Brad instead? :) Or the ever-wonderful Orli? :)

Well of course you can, darlin', its a PARTY!!! And what's not to love about those two? Yum, yum.

Happy birthday Trish and way to go on the outline.

Wonderful to know that D&D has been spotted in the South!

Dina said...

Oh, I'm getting more excited now to know it will be in my hands soon. :) Oh cabana boy, I'd like what Kammie is having, a strawberry margarita please.
The only thing to celebrate this month was my only granddaughter's
1st bday.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Well Dina, that's a darn good reason to celebrate. A first anything - but especially a birthday - is a wonder.

Pull up a lounge chair and enjoy!

Terri Osburn said...

Sorry to report the B&N in Chesapeake, VA did NOT have the book. But I'll keep looking. And by golly I totally forgot to look for the other two. Gah! Should have read all the comments before I left. LOL!

Kamikazi is pretty much the only mixed drink I do. And yeah, they is some potent stuff.

Celebrating in June - my daughter goes off to her dad's for the summer and I get to be a wild & free single girl for 10 weeks. Not that I'm happy she's going, but it is nice to be on my own for a little while.

And I'll take my body shots off of Gerry Butler, thankyouverymuch!

Jennifer Y. said...

YOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOO! (said as Susan's mother would with my arms waving...see yesterday's post's comments) Hey, Cabana Boys! I need a refill!!! And can someone rub my feet?

;o) This party is fun...and I haven't seen a single lampshade on anyone's head yet...or any male strippers ;o(

Dina said...

You're right Jeanne, it is a good thing.

Oh Terrio, wouldn't that be tasty off of Gerry!! Ok, there my mind goes now.

Caren Crane said...

Congrats, Jane!

Jeanne, I am SO MAD because I don't have my copy yet. What is UP with these bookstores and sticking to the release dates?!

I had to borrow the dh's car today while mine got new brakes AND I had a school thing to go to, so no trip to the bookstore for me. Gah! I am SO THERE tomorrow!

I am thrilled and so excited to read your first book! Success absolutely couldn't happen to a more wonderful person. Cheers to you!!

Caren Crane said...

Jeanne, is Trashcan Punch what they called "PJ" in Charlotte? Basically, it's PGA and a bunch of fruit and usually some Hawaiian Punch. Often mixed in a lined trashcan. Gark!

Those parties always ended with the backyard "decorated" with fruit. Eeew! The bad old days. *eg*

Caren Crane said...

Forgot to mention that I may be late to the party, but at least my drink is low maintenance. "Oh, cabana boy! Vodka tonic, two olives."

Y'all have run the cabana boys ragged today! They are dragging their flip flops, poor things. And the gladiators are complaining of fatigue and sunburn from the...interpretive dance?! What in the world? How does dance lead to sunbu-- Oh, no, Joanie. Did you tell them to lose their tunics again? You wicked girl!

Jeanne, I'm not sure how many more parties you will be allowed to hold if you can't maintain some order. Look what I found nailed to the drawbridge. It's from the po-po! They said if they're called out again about the loud music and fruit launching (?), we will be fined. Humph! The po-po lack a sense of humor, I'd say.

Joan said...

Sorry, Caren I couldn't "hear" you....too much singing and shield banging..

And is that Jeanne dancing with a tunic on her head????

Here Demetrius...I've got the aloe..

Jennifer Y. said...

You Banditas are wicked ;o)

No wonder it is so much fun here...

Ellory said...

Congrats on your debut novel. Great Party. :)

Caren Crane said...

I believe Jeanne has had, as my mama says, "A little too much party." She may have toddled off to bed. Hope she took some aspirin and drank lots of water before she passed out--I mean, went to sleep.

Jennifer Y., remember the aspirin and water remedy. It's GREAT for virtual hangovers (or preventing real ones *g*).

Caren Crane said...

Jennifer Y., if you missed the male strippers, you obviously were not at the "interpretive dance" recital Joanie's Roman's had. Too bad! All those scars. *shiver*

Jennifer Y. said...

I guess so! Darn! Did anyone film it? Or are they up to an encore?

Susan Sey said...

Yahooooo, Duchesse!!

I can't wait to snap up my copy of DD!! Seeing your name on the cover of a book must be the coolest thing ever. I'm so happy for you! I lift my icy cold beer with the fresh wedge of lime in your direction. :-)

Nancy said...

Duchesse-I'm very late to the party, but it looks as though you had a great one! I'm so happy for you. Congratulations on your launch!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Ooooh, Terrio! Gerry Butler is it? Yum, yum.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Jennifer, we try to stick to our very own cabana boys. Those strippers are over-rated, while the Bandita Lair Cabana boys are The Real Deal.

Bwah-ha-ha!

Anybody got a lampshade? We have to put one on, just so Jennifer can have a story to tell on us. Grins.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi Caren! Welcome to the wildest of launch parties! BTW, you're completely correct, the po-po have NO sense of humor. We did, however, convince one nice young officer to return after hours. I think Tawny did it, but it could have been Terrio and all that winking she was doing.

Grins.

You do indeed have the recipe for Trashcan punch correct. We used Everclear or Moonshine for it though and it would k-i-c-k your booty.

We've all agreed to chip in for a nice bottle of aloe for JT's boyz. I think Jane even offered to help apply...or was that Nancy?

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

No, JT, it isn't a tunic...*VEG*

Here, bang another shield and have some more punch.

Sven, I think Caren needed her brakes worked on...I mean her...never mind. Someone fetch the girl some more olives. :>

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi Susan! That icy beer and lime sounds divine. I'm flushed, I tell you, positively flushed.

Demetrius handed me that shield, and it was downhill from there. Did you know you can ride a shield all the way down Bandita Hill? It's fabulous! Wheeeeee! The best part, of course, is when the guys "get" to carry you back up!

I think the Cabana boys are going to need to sleep in after this one!

Joan said...

ROTFL....

If I were not in my current virtual inebriated state, I could craft an hilarious post using key words from the last few posts....

Instead, I'll just sit here and giggle behind my hand. :-)

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Awwww, c'mon Joanie T! We've finally quit all the banging. (As Caren said, the po-po are NOT patient with noise complaints.)

Give us a limerick or a sum post that you're so giggly about.

Oh, and have some more food. When the Hockey Hunks order take out...wow, thatsa lotta food!

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Hi Ann! Sorry I missed welcoming you to the party. The group over there is singing around the fire pit. Back by the bar, the Cal. girls and the Hockey Hunks are swapping stories - shocking ones too! - And the poor cabana boys are about worn out. :>

Hey Joanie...

There was a wee lass from Limerick,
She thought she felt a pin prick,
but when she turned around, there was Bran on the ground...

(you finish it!) *gggg*

Terri Osburn said...

...the poor boy had tripped over a stick. *eg*

We used to make that drink except we called it Jungle Juice. Man, that stuff stains. I made the mistake of sitting on the floor one night eating oranges that had been soaking for oh about...24 hours. Yeah, I could have used one of those Gladiators to get me off the floor. LOL!

Speaking of Gladiators, I think I'll start doing my shots off Russell Crowe now. We'll be needing a private cabana before we're through.

Jeanne (AKA The Duchesse) said...

Wheeee, Terrio! Nice one! :> It sure has gotten quiet around here. Hmmmm. I guess it's time to get the s'mores. Everybody's too tipsy to dance.

Great party everyone! Grab a marshmellow and a skewer, make a s'more for the road.

Thanks for helping me celebrate...yes, Demetrius, s'mores DO involve chocolate. Melted chocolate. Yes, I DO think Joanie and Tawny are coming back...

Anna Campbell said...

Jeanne, sorry to be so late to the party. Sometimes a girl just can't make it to the best event in town, no matter how she wants to be there! Congratulations on the release of Dark and Dangerous. I've been so excited about this book ever since you first told me about it - and whoo-hoo on the top pick from RT! I'm sure this is the start of an amazing career and I look forward to cheering you on to the heights, my friend!

Jennifer Y. said...

Did someone say s'mores?

Melted chocolate and cabana boys? Hmmm....

hrdwrkdmom aka Dianna said...

Wow, I missed it and it looks like a war zone in here. Congrats Jeanne, I can't wait to get your book. I have to work today but as soon as I am off I will be at the bookstore.

kim h said...

congrts on the great review and top pic from rT. tht is great.

limecello said...

Whoo! Congratulations on the launch! ;) Hm... I'm going to consider it's June and say I'm celebrating BIRTHDAYS. Not only mine and my sister's, but about 15 of my friends :P. It's a busy month :)

Kate Carlisle said...

Oh hey, what a mess!! But the bartender's still working it. I love that in a bartender! And love the toga, dude.!

Vodka gimlet, please. Up, extra lime, frosty glass. Yummers!

Happy book launch, Duchesse!! So sorry I had to miss the party but I'm catching the tail end, soaking up what's left of the vibes and the vapors. Wow! I think we can keep this going for another few hours!

Oh, body shots. Umm. Daniel Craig, please. Ooh, or that really cute guy on New Amsterdam. Talk about yummers!!

Caffey said...

Huge congrats!!! I know I have met a great many new authors I read through these debuts and they've been keepers and just by all I read so far, I so can't wait to get this one too. Congrats and your speech gave me goosebumps feeling all that joy! I know I feel it when I read the books, its so much a wonderful feeling.

I'm celebrating along with you as my 25th wedding anniversary is June 4th, this week, and since we aren't able to do anything special for it, I shall be having my champagne with you. He's working the day and evening shift. But I have a wonderful hero, so we have plans to maybe get out for a dinner when he has a day off soon. Really each day is a celebration, he's a great guy and I wouldn't change a thing! Thanks for letting me share!