Sunday, January 25, 2009

Countdown to Launch!!

By Kate

Save the Date! You’re invited to a party! A launch party. Right here in the Lair, ten days from now, on February 4.

It’ll be huge, wild, fantastic! You won’t want to miss it. Because we’re celebrating the publication of HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER – my first book!! After twenty years of writing, you bet I'm celebrating this one!

And I don’t mean to brag but—oh okay, I’ll brag just a little. RT Magazine gave HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER their highest rating and called my bookbinder protagonist, Brooklyn Wainwright, “brilliant, feisty and funny.” I hope you’ll agree!

So that’s why we’re having a party! It’ll be unlike any party ever in the history of the Lair—because you’re all going to help me plan it!

Now let's get serious. We’ve got some stiff competition. I mean, remember La Campbell’s incredible masquerade ball to launch Tempt the Devil? And I’m sure you recall Madame Wells’ cabana boy extravaganza starring, among others, Sven the masseur and his hunky brother, Lars for her launch of The Dangerous Duke. And speaking of dangerous, can we ever forget Jeanne’s Dark and Dangerous crazy wild office party hullabaloo? And there are so many others. I mean, you'd think this place was Parties R Us.

So in keeping with the party spirit of the Lair, I want something big, really big, maybe even bigger than anything ever seen before! This occasion calls for a blowout, call-the-cops, raise-the-roof, wildest-ride-of-your-life shindig that will have everybody talking for years to come. Come on, twenty years in the making? This party’s got to rock the universe!

So help me out. What’s the best party you’ve ever been to? We’re talking real life – or virtual partying, if that’s your preference. Was it an intimate soiree or did it involve a cast of thousands? Did you fly off to some exotic locale or hang out around somebody's pool? What did you wear? Who did you see there? And most importantly, what fabulous cocktails were you drinking?

Okay, I admit I’m desperate for some great new party ideas, so I’m giving away TWO $15 Amazon gift certificates to the two most fabulous party details you’re willing to share. And if you’ve got a new drink recipe, I want to hear about it!



And to keep the party going, be sure to stop by my newly decorated
blog anytime in the next ten days, leave a comment and be eligible to win a fabulous book launch party package including books, Barnes & Noble gift certificate, chocolates and more!

103 comments:

Unknown said...

GR are you coming back to my house!!!

Unknown said...

Hey Kate, I will get back with you tomorrow on the party. I am going to have to think about it a while. But I can tell you one thing, I am ready to PARTY!!!

Congrats on your new release, it sounds great!!!

Natalie Hatch said...

virginia you're fast lady.

Elyssa Papa said...

You know, keeping with the mystery theme . . . what better party then a house party like Clue or Gosford Park with glittering costumes, an assortment of possible murder weapons and suspects, and copious amounts of alcohol.

Congrats on the upcoming release!

Keira Soleore said...

WTG, Virginia.

Huge congratulations, Kate, on the upcoming release. The cover's gorgeous!!! A dream of a library with a picture window. Wow.

I have to clarify: You want stiff competition or a competition of stiffs, given that you do write about murder.

First of all, let's have the party at the Ritz. Have their chef create a special menu just for us, that does not include chicken, out of respect for the GR. But before we sit down to dinner, I want us to have some ooh-la-la cocktails as we mingle to the music provided by a live band.

Of course, we're all dressed in these magnificient ballgowns. Forget the RITA finery, we have the Oscars finery down pat. Jewelry that makes a statement, shoes that inspire odes, clutches that draw whistles, and gowns that fab designers are falling over themselves to have us try. Hair and makeup, par for the course.

So, after we mingle and imbibe a few delicious drinks and nibble at tasty-tasty hors-d'oevres, then we have a sit down dinner with a gloved waiter for each diner standing at attention behind his/her chair (like the Regency footmen). Each course is served with a specific wine. Once dinner is over, the live band revs up and starts grooving.

We toss off our gorgeous slinky heels and dance our meals and appetizers away. After we're tired the band out, we return to our tables and help ourselves from a gorgeous dessert buffet with vintage dessert wines.

At this point, we're stuffed full of food, dance, laughter, and lots of alcohol. So we mince our way (minding the blisters) to our rooms at the hotel and sleep the rest of the night and the entire next day away.

Howzat?

Helen said...

Well done Virginia enjoy your day with him

Kate
I am so excited about the launch I hope I can get the book here in Australia.

Party yes there have been some great ones in the lair and I have enjoyed everyone of them, I suggest a who done it party with fancy costumes and lots of drinks and of course hunky looking policemen to investigate.

Have Fun
Helen

limecello said...

Congrats on the GR, Virginia- and congrats on the upcoming release, Kate!
Ooo Elyssa took my idea of a Murder Mystery party! Great minds think alike!
I'm all about food -so great catering. Like... a Top Chef challenge! (I'm going through withdrawal on not having Bravo.) I know Cirque made all sorts of performances/circus type things popular. In the sexy more fantastic way.
My current drink is disaronno with cranberry juice and a slice of lime. How about the classic mimosa? Ooo or an agave kiss? * 2 oz Herradura Tequila Silver
* 1 oz white creme de cacao
* 1 oz double cream
* 1/2 oz Chambord
* white chocolate flakes for rimming
* fresh raspberries for garnish

I haven't had one but it sounds delicious.
I love the idea of a fancy murder mystery party to go along with your new book :)
Hot waiters circulating - and then the sexy men in uniforms to head up the investigation... Performers - a live band - controlled chaos at its finest ;)

Natalie Hatch said...

I'll bring Jeffrey Dean Morgan (just re-watched PS I Love You) to entertain the crowds and maybe Inspector Clueso to help solve the mystery.

Leslie said...

Congratulations Kate! And brag away ~ you've earned it! I'll be at the party and the ideas the ladies have are great. The last party I went to was at Chuck E. Cheese so I don't think I'll be much help. lol

Virginia - I think the GR likes you :)

Donna MacMeans said...

Kate - I have three requirements for a party: 1) surrounded by friends (banditas and bbs fit the bill) 2) a live band - no DJ will do and 3) lots of hunky guys to obey my every command. I do enjoy a good drink but that would require leaving the dancefloor (grin). We're overdue for a party. Your debut is hitting the shelves just in time!

Minna said...

Congrats on your new release!

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

Minna said...

Well, for those who want to stay sober enough to dance, you need mead:
5 l water
- 350 g sugar
- 350 g brown sugar
- 2 lemons
- tiny bit of yeast
Wash the lemons and peel them thinly. Remove the pith. Slice the lemons and place them with the peel and sugar in a sufficiently large vessel.

Bring half of the water to the boil and pour it over the lemons, peel and sugar. Stir and leave to stand covered for a while. Add the rest of the water cold. When the liquid is lukewarm add the yeast.

Keep the mead at room temperature until it starts to ferment, i.e. about one day. Put a couple of raisins and 1 tsp of sugar into clean bottles, and strain the mead into the bottles. Loosely cork the bottles and store them in a cool place. The mead is ready when the raisins rise to the surface.

danie88 said...

ohhh another release party! :D yay! congrats on the upcoming release Kate!

ohhh Elyssa you've got a great party idea... i don't think i could beat that... a mystery theme party would be perfect for Kate's book...

The best virtual party i've ever been to was Brenda Novak's Christmas Bash in SecondLife... I ran into both Tawny and Beth there and it was sooo much fun! :D

Jane said...

Congrats on the GR, Virginia.

Looking forward to your launch party, Kate. Ooh, a murder mystery party sounds like a great idea. I think these parties were popular with Hollywood stars in the 30's and 40's. Some of my favorite parties are the ones my cousin throws during Christmas and New Year's. The best thing about these parties were the champagne.

Margay Leah Justice said...

How about having one of those murder mystery type of party where everyone checks in as their favorite detective from print or the movies and they compete to solve a crime?

Margay
http://margayleahjustice.com

Margay Leah Justice said...

Oh, I almost forgot to say congratulations! Sorry, I'm not fully caffeinated yet. But here's a great big CONGRATULATIONS from me! Enjoy it. It's a fabulous feeling.
Margay

iheartbooks said...

Hi Kate! Congrats on your upcoming release! I'm excited and can't wait to read it. The party sounds like fun, I can't wait.
Well as far as a party idea goes, might I suggest "The History of the Mystory Museum" Pary Setting would be in a Historical Mystery Museum. Participants take a era from history, choose a solved or unsolved crime, related character, and anything els related to the mystery, share their clues and others have fun guessing what mystery they are. Dress code would include a costume from the specific time period of choice, dates can include other characters or famous people in that time period. Our drinks could have names related to a mystery or era such as "Jack Daniel". As far as entertainment? Well, I think all of us are going to have a blast entertaining each other no matter what theme it is... I'm ready to PAR-TAY!!

Gillian Layne said...

I CANNOT WAIT for this book!! :)

Here's one drink:

MURDER
1 part Bacardi® O rum
1 part Mountain Dew® Code Red soda
lime juice

Fill a small beer pitcher half full with ice. pour in equal amounts of a Bacardi O rum and Mountain Dew Code Red soda. Add lime juice for taste. Fresh limes or lime juice will work the same.

This drink and be made in the form of a shooter a cocktail or party punch just keep the mixture 1/2 rum and 1/2 soda.

OR Try This!

Homicidal Maniac recipe

2 oz vodka
2 oz peach schnapps
2 oz cranberry-apple juice

Fill mug with ice, add ingredients, stir and enjoy. Or for more fun, put all ingredients (including the ice) into the blender and make a Frozen Homicidal Maniac!!

Of course, we have to have something to bring us all back to life!

Corpse Reviver recipe

1 1/2 oz brandy
1/2 oz Fernet Branca® bitters
1 oz white creme de menthe

In a mixing glass half-filled with ice cubes, combine all of the ingredients. Stir well. Strain into a cocktail glass.

Enjoy the countdown, Kate!

Christie Kelley said...

Kate, congratulations on your upcoming release. But no more party planning for me!

I'm knee deep in planning my dh's 50th bday party. I think we've invited over 100 people and while I know some can't make it, that's still a lot of people.

Deb Marlowe said...

Kate! Congrats! It seems like we've been waiting forever for your release! I'm so glad it's finally here.

Well, I'm just back from a family trip to Disney, which is like one big party. So I'd say have all the waiters dressed like famous detectives. Since your heroine is a bookbinder, have it in a fabulous library or in a replica of the ancient Alexandria library. Good food, good friends, fabulous clothes, what's not to love?

Hooray!

Minna said...

And here's some music:

al jarreau - moonlighting theme
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjh9uO1goMI&NR=1

Due South
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixJrH-YxoSM&feature=related

Kate Carlisle said...

Virginia, congrats! The GR's back in your hot little hands! You two have fun today!

Kate Carlisle said...

Aww, Natalie! You just missed the GR by a few minutes.

Oh baby, I love that guy! No no, not the GR. Well, I love him too, in a strange, unsettling way. But I was talking about Jeffrey Dean Morgan! Love him! So glad you're bringing him to the party, Natalie! I just hope you'll allow him to, um, mingle with others. :-)

Kate Carlisle said...

Hi Elyssa -- I loved Gosford Park! What a great backdrop for a mystery party. Hmm, yes, assorted weapons and copious amounts of alcohol. You've been to my parties before, I see! *g*

Anonymous said...

Well, I say that dinner should be all chocolate -- chocolate incorporated into the dishes, and sure as heck plenty of desserts that are all chocolate. (And perhaps, I'll share, I'll see. LOL). . . and once it gets dark, fireworks, even more than what you see at the 4th of July! :)

And plenty of hunks serving all that chocolate too. :)

Lois

Kate Carlisle said...

Keira, I adore your fabulous party at the Ritz! It sounds so tasteful, so lovely, and we deserve the elegant service they provide. I'm imagining that live band is a Big Band with plenty of horns playing classic jazz from the 40's. Perfect!

And there maybe a few hearty types who'll stay up to watch the sunrise. Hmm. What do you think? Sunrise over the Eiffel Tower? Or Big Ben? Maybe Hong Kong Harbor? Or the South Pacific? Bali, anyone?

Kate Carlisle said...

Helen, a whodunnit party with hunky policemen!! How fabulous! And of course there will be costumes. Oh I love that. Yes, lots of drinkies and music and we'll need plenty of, um, interrogation rooms. Yes, that's what we're calling it. There will be lots of interrogating going on! :-)

And I do hope the book will be available Down Under. I might have to take a bunch down to you myself. And then we'll have to have another party!

jo robertson said...

Whooooo hoooooot! Kate! This is an amazing accomplishment, long awaited, and we are here to celebrate your success with you. Congrats on the RT review. Seems like we've been waiting as long as you have for the debut of HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER.

I'm not sure this was the wildest, rocking-est party I've ever been to, but I remember my 12th birthday party. Leap year, as many of you know, so it was a big one. And we played spin the bottle, of course, like all silly 12-year olds.

That was my FIRST ever kiss. And my goofy mom hid in the closet in the room where this unremarkable boy and I went for the kiss. Too funny, even at the time I thought my mom was a hoot!

And since we all know 12 year-old boys have absolutely NO idea how to kiss, that part was a bust.

But I still remember that party!

Kate Carlisle said...

limecello, my mouth is watering to try the Agave Kiss! I'm printing that recipe right now.

I love the murder mystery theme with a bit of Cirque de Soleil decadence thrown in for wildness! Hmm, hunky police mingling, trapeze artists dangling, and a sexy chef demanding that we taste every succulent treat he creates ...

And there'll have to be a murder. More interrogations. Hee hee hee.

Kate Carlisle said...

ROFL, Leslie! After talking about decadent parties and hunky cops, Chuck E. Cheese made me spew my coffee!!

(Yeah, yeah, Chuck E. Cheese is probably my speed, too, but we're in fantasy land here!! LOL)

And thanks so much for the congrats! :-)

Kate Carlisle said...

Donna, your requirements are absolutely the same as mine!
Friends, check.
Live music, check.
Hunky men, check-check-check!!

And why leave the dance floor to get a drink? Isn't that what cabana boys are for? :-)

Kate Carlisle said...

Minna, thank you for the congratulations song! I love Cliff Richard in that video but most of all, my dream is to be one of his back-up singers and wear that frilly pink baby doll dress! Aren't they fabulous?!

I'm also printing your mead recipe. I've never tried it before but there's a first time for everything. Mead, pink baby doll dresses, everything. :-)

Becke Davis said...

I'm looking forward to reading it!

Kate Carlisle said...

Jo, thank you!! Yes, all the Banditas have struggled and strained along with me to birth this baby!! I love you all for hanging in there with me!

I love that your mom was in the closet watching at your birthday party!! LOL

Hmm, I also love the idea of playing Spin the Bottle. I must arrange to play it at the book launch party!

pjpuppymom said...

Kate, congrats on the upcoming release of HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER! Y'all, I've had the privilege of already reading this book and it is AWESOME! My first question to Kate after finishing it was, "How fast will we get the next book in the series?"

Stop by romancenovel.tv on the 31st to check out my review of HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER then hit the booksellers on Feb. 3rd to get a copy of your own.

I love all these murder mystery party ideas. I'm with Donna. Give me good friends, good music, good food and drink and I'm good to go! lol

pjpuppymom said...

Virginia, congrats on nabbing the GR! Don't be surprised if he takes a nap today. The girls really wore him out last night!

Kate Carlisle said...

Hi Danie, I hope you'll be here for the big party! I agree, a murder mystery theme is a great idea!

And any party with Tawny and Beth in attendance is sure to be very wild and very fun!!

Kate Carlisle said...

Hi Jane, I love champagne, too! Lately, I've been trying a lot of brut rose' and I really like most of them. It's so festive and pink! I've placed an order for several hundred bottles for the launch party. I hope that'll be enough. :-)

Minna said...

You can find the mead recipe and other recipes here:
http://virtual.finland.fi/People/way_of_life.asp

http://virtual.finland.fi/netcomm/news/showarticle.asp?intNWSAID=26068

Kate Carlisle said...

Thanks for the congrats, Margay. I'm really excited!

And thanks for that fabulous idea! Everyone comes as their favorite detective. Hmm. There really are hundreds to choose from.

Nancy Drew ... Kinsey Milhone ... Sam Spade ... Miss Marple ... Inspector Clouseau ... the Blackbird Sisters ...

I love that idea!

Kate Carlisle said...

Iheart, what a fabulous setting for a party! The History of Mystery Museum sounds very cool, with lots of places to hide, of course, but also lots of crimes to choose from and detectives to emulate.

I'm so glad you're ready to Partay! Me, too!

Kate Carlisle said...

Thanks so much, Gillian! And OMG, every one of those drinks sounds lethal! And that's so fitting for launching a murder mystery! LOL

I'm printing them all out and will consult with my bartender to get them on the party menu. I'll add your name to the credits. :-)

Kate Carlisle said...

Hey Christie, I hope your party is a huge success! And your new home is a beautiful place to party hearty. Good luck!

hrdwrkdmom aka Dianna said...

I really like Elyssa's idea, a Clue Launch Party. Maybe it could go something like this.....

http://hrdwrkdmom.com/Banditas/hihlaunch.html

Kate Carlisle said...

Deb Marlowe, thank you so much!! I love the idea of partying in a fabulous old library! Lots of nooks and crannies and hidey holes to sneak away to and, er, um, discuss great works of literature? Yeah, that's it! The cabana boys will be at your service to read aloud and debate all the great works. Hee hee hee... :-)

pjpuppymom said...

Dianna, that's incredible! I love it!

Unknown said...

Oh the murder mystery party sounds fantastic! This is going to be so much fun. The GR has his Tux on and wants Helen and Fedora's first dance. He is so excited!

I am bring George Clooney with me and we want to have Margaritas so we came swing from the Chandelier and figure out who-done-it. George loves these kinds of parties.

Here is our Margarita recipe

2 ounces tequila made from 100 percent agave, preferably reposado or blanco
1 ounce Cointreau
1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
Salt for garnish

PreparationCombine tequila, Cointreau, and lime juice in cocktail shaker filled with ice. Moisten rim of Margarita or other cocktail glass with lime juice or water. Holding glass upside down, dip rim into salt. Shake and strain drink into glass and serve

I plan on dancing with every handsome man there including Jeffrey Dean Morgan, David James Elliot and John Stamos.

George and I have already found the murder weapon. It was a bloody knife hidden in the Chandelier.

hrdwrkdmom aka Dianna said...

LOL, glad you like it PJ, now if I could just find my way back in the Lair I would join the party, I am all dressed up with nowhere to go

Trish Milburn said...

I'm so looking forward to this book, Kate!

Kate Carlisle said...

I love your choice of music, Minna! :-)

Kate Carlisle said...

Lois, a chocolate party sounds scrumptious and perfect for me, the choc-a-holic! I know our talented Lair bartenders could also concoct some yummy chocolate beverages to go with everything. Uh-oh, my mouth is watering again. I need chocolate! :-)

Kate Carlisle said...

Thanks, Treethyme! I'm looking forward to seeing you at the big party. :-)

Kate Carlisle said...

PJ, you're such a doll! I can't wait to read that review! Thank you so much for the congrats!

Um, I should be writing that next book right now! Okay, okay, I'm off to the Cave soon ... very, very soon ... :-)

Kate Carlisle said...

Did anyone else notice how I just blew right past Keira's "stiff" competition line?

Hee hee hee!

Loucinda McGary aka Aunty Cindy said...

YAY KATE!!!
If this is the party planning, I can't WAIT for the actual party!!! The Lair may never be the same.

OMG Dianna! What fabulous piccies!!! How did you get that many cabana boys to stand still and pose? ANd I think the blue gown is PERFECT for you, though that train could be a hinderance when chandelier swinging. For me, I favor that burgundy spaghetti strap number...

Virginia, have fun with the bird today!

AC
off to check out the "interrogation rooms" to make sure they are well stocked

Kate Carlisle said...

Dianna, I love it!!!!!

You are so clever! How did you know I would need all those lovely men in kilts to carry me around the party? Ooh, and gladiators. Somebody grab Joanie before she--Joanie, no! Joanie, don't touch his ... ooh, too late. Well, maybe we'll see them later ...

And all the dresses are gorgeous but I love that adorable dress on the end, the short one with the full skirt and big brown bow at the waist. It's so flirty and fun, much like myself!

Now I'm going to go taste test the burnt toasted almond cocktail. It's a tough job but somebody's gotta do it. :-)

Helen said...

Kate

I love the new photo and I would love you to bring the book down under and another party whoohoo.

These parties ideas are great it will be a fantastic party

Have Fun
Helen

Kate Carlisle said...

Virginia!! You're bringing my favorite drink! And it must be made with Cointreau, and shaken, of course! You have such good taste! In drinks and in men, too, I see. I know his loyalty is endearing but I do hope you'll be willing to share George with the rest of us. :-)

And you found the murder weapon! How clever you are! But good grief, are those your fingerprints on the knife? Hmm, you might have to be interrogated, my dear. Now, who would you like to have as your interrogator? Your choice!

Kate Carlisle said...

Hi Trish, thanks! It's been a long time coming, hasn't it? I'm looking forward to it, too.

Kate Carlisle said...

Aunty Cindy! Helloooo!! So great to see you! Love that burgundy dress on you!! Fabulushous!!

Aren't these party ideas fantastic? I'll be exhausted by the time the *real* party gets started! But I know I'll find my second wind. Oh, is that Daniel Craig? Dear Daniel, could you help me find my second wind, please? I think I left it in one of these charming little rooms down this hall ...

No, no, don't turn on the light ...

Kate Carlisle said...

Helen, thanks for noticing the new piccie! I finally had to get a new one to go with my new website. :-)

A book launch party in Australia would be more fun than anything! What do you say, Banditas? Is everyone up for that? Oh yeah, baby! Let's go!

Suzanne Ferrell said...

How about a 1920's noir...flappers, gangsters, movie stars, lots of champagne and bath tub gin... a la F. Scot Fitzgerald?

Helen said...

Kate
A wonderul harbour cruise around Sydney would be great I have been on a few on a hot summers night the lights and scenery are fantastic lots of champagne and drinks live bands on board dancing the night away I could handle that with all of the Bandits and Bandita Buddies.

Diana
Love that you are so good.

Have Fun
Helen

Unknown said...

Hm, if I must be interrogated and George is my date then I will choose Jeffrey Dean Morgan, John Stamos and David James Elliot to interrogate me. We do get to be in a room alone during this interroagation don't we?

Maureen Child said...

Hey Kate!!

Y'know, there's a great Southern Comfort punch that's so strong and soooooo good, you don't even know you're toasted till you stand up and try to walk!!

But...in honor of Commander Derek Stone (your fabulously sexy hero), I'm thinking a party with a James Bondy type atmosphere!

What do you think??

Kate Carlisle said...

Ooh Suz, a '20's party would be the bee's knees! Great music, wild dancing, fabulous dresses--with fringe. Very flirty! And dangerous men! Oh, and throw in some sexy G-men to round us all up when we've been misbehaving. Good times!

Kate Carlisle said...

Helen, a cruise around Sydney Harbour with all-you-can-drink champagne and dancing till dawn -- sounds like heaven!

LOL Virginia! Naturally, all interrogations will be carried out behind closed doors. :-)

Kate Carlisle said...

Maureen!! Hi! Glad you could make the pre-party festivities! *g*

I need to discuss this Southern Comfort punch with you. I'm surprised I haven't heard about it before. Sounds yummy!

A James Bond party sounds too fabulous! And you know Derek Stone will be my date to the Book Launch party! Is it crazy to be half in love with my own creation?? LOL

Jennifer Lyon said...

Kate, I'm so excited about HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER! Congratulations! Now for the party--James Bond sounds good to me. Of course there will be a martini bar, yes? Perhaps some hunks walking around with those martini shaker things? To, you know, shake things up?

I've got to back and read ALL the answers--they are so much fun!

Louisa Cornell said...

Humungous Congrats, Kate and so well deserved too!! I cannot WAIT to read this book!! I'm already touting it to our local mystery book club!

Yes, Virginia, the GR ran to your house after his night at the slumber party. He thought he would actually get some SLUMBER! Silly bird. Tuck him in with some Tim Tams and milk and he will be a good boy. :)

Now, as for this launch party. I really think we need to make it a traveling adventure party. So, here's the plan. Kate's books have been stolen! STOLEN! The night before they are to be released!! BUT, the thief left clues. We must all board the Bandita Boeing Booty Airbus and go in search of Kate's books. Of course we must have the Romans, Lars, Sven and the Cabana Boys with us to handle the luggage, etc.

First clue : The books can be found in the center ring where ancient Druids once did sing.

We're off to England to Stonehenge where we find we have just missed the thief, but he left us a lovely repast of roast beef, Yorkshire pudding and hearty ale.

Second clue : The books have decided to have a bite to eat, A Regency tea party where London's elite did buy their eats (hey, I write romance not poetry!)

No we must run down to London to dine at Fortnum and Mason's. Heavenly pastries, fabulous meat and cheese trays and of course some of the finest wines from the cellar, something laid down to celebrate the original victory at Waterloo. And then all night partying in Picadilly Circus!

Third clue : As the books are sure to become an international sensation the thief has taken them to the Ooh La La Nation! And as they are surely works of art, into the home of masterpieces they will dart.

Off to Paris and the Louvre where we will enjoy baguettes, escargot and the very finest Champagne! A night at several Parisian clubs and a couple of male reviews and still no sign of the books

Clue Four : Alas the books, you have just missed them! They raced off to try their chances in the Coliseum!

We are definitely racking up the frequent flyer miles! Off to Rome and Joan's gladiators are polishing their armor while Joan polishes them! We dine on the very finest pasta, drink Italian wine and dance the night away to the glorious music of an orchestra and then follow a trail of golden feathers to the next clue. Wait a
minute! Golden feathers?? Who IS this thief??

Nancy said...

Virginia, have fun with the rooster!

Kate, WOO-HOO! I'm so excited for you and can't wait to read this book! I have to admit I'm a stick in the mud and don't do a lot of partying. But I'd choose--champagne, cake with buttercream frosting, fruit with one of those chocolate fountains (offering dark, milk, and white), a coffee bar, and fancy dress.

And, of course, danceable music.

With cabana boys and gladiators constantly circulating with trays of food and drink.

Yeah, yeah, I know tray carrying is beneath the gladiators' dignity, but this is an occasion! Surely they can make an exception.

Kate Carlisle said...

Hi Jen!! Thanks so much for being here! You must go back and read the comments. They are fabulous! We're going to have a sensational party next week!

Another vote for James Bond. Well, naturally, he'll be here in all his manifestations. He never misses a party in the Lair! :-)

And maybe we can convince you to invite a few of your awesomely hunky witch hunters to liven up the joint!

Kate Carlisle said...

And by the way, I wanted to remind all our Banditas and friends -- don't forget to visit Romance Novel TV all this week for the second annual BANDITA INVASION!! Every day, Monday through Friday, there'll be loads of wild and crazy fun stuff going on -- and great prizes to be won every day! See you there!

http://www.romancenovel.tv/

The Sikchis said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Keira Soleore said...

Kate asked, "Did anyone else notice how I just blew right past Keira's 'stiff' competition line?"

Naturally, I noticed. I thought you were simply showing me the stiff upper lip of manners at my bourgeois remark.

Louisa, what a MARVELOUS idea! It's like Mystery Theater Dinner, except that we get to travel, too. Give that girl the prize. She wins, hands down.

Kate Carlisle said...

Oh, my dear Louisa!!! I am mopping away tears of glee as I'm reading the last paragraph of your wild Bandita caper!!! A trail of golden feathers ... LOLOL!! You are priceless. Are you by chance...a writer??? You rock!!

I loved the Bandita Booty Airbus, and all the places we stopped are my favorites! I could live at Fortnum & Mason!! And yum, fresh baguettes and champagne in Paris. I'm in heaven!

Kate Carlisle said...

LOL, Nancy! We must always take care not to insult the gladiators. They have such big, um, swords. Yeah, swords!

And a chocolate fountain is an absolute must!! I'm so glad you thought of that. It's just not a party without it. :-)

Anna Campbell said...

Virginia, he does LOVE you!

Kate, whoooooo-hooooooo! I can't tell you how much I'm looking forward to reading HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER. You had me at sexy, uptight British agent... OK, so I'm shallow. Sue me! Anyway, it's on order so hopefully I'll have it in my hot little hands VERY soon.

I think the party is going to be amazing! Can't wait till the 4th!

traveler said...

Congratulations Kate on the new release. What a fabulous idea to have a launch party.
I would have an orient express party which travels from one wonderful location to another. Through England, France and then onto Italy. Then a Mediterranean cruise to cap it off.

Anna Campbell said...

Hey, Kate, just noticed the new photo. Stunning!

Cassondra said...

Oh, I'm likin the whodunit party idea! And Kate, we've been waiting WAY too long for this book. I can't wait.

And your new Avatar photo is gorgeous!

Kate Carlisle said...

LOL Keira! Hey, I have no manners! I was merely allowing time for some of our more randy Banditas to jump on that stiff thing.

Er, in a manner of speaking.

Oh, dear.

pjpuppymom said...

Kate, love the new photo! It's the perfect image for a future bestselling author!

Louisa, I have my passport in hand and I'm ready to go! Love it!

Kate Carlisle said...

Helloooo Anna!! I'm so thrilled to hear those words you just uttered! No, no, not ...

*sexy, uptight British agent*

but ...

*It's on order.*

Ah yes, those words are music to my ears. LOL. Seriously, thank you so much, m'dear!! :-)

Kate Carlisle said...

Hi Traveler -- what a great idea! A Murder on the Orient Express party sounds fabulous and exotic and wonderful! There will have to be a murder, of course. I don't think we can avoid it. :-) And that means we'll need a delicious private investigator on board to help us solve the crime. And lots of champagne, naturally. Lots of champagne and chocolate to soothe our shattered nerves. *g*

anne said...

Congrats on your release Kate. Love that book and cover. What a great party you have going on here.
To really celebrate I would rent an island which would have the ultimate in entertainment, food and plenty of action.

Kate Carlisle said...

Cassondra, you and me both! Can't wait for this book to be out and about!

PJ, Anna, Cassondra, thanks for loving my new photo!

PJ, I'm hugging your words, "future bestselling author" close to my heart. :-)

Kate Carlisle said...

Anne, thanks for coming by the party! Er, pre-party, really. The real party starts next week and it's guaranteed to blow everyone's socks off. :-)

I love the idea of renting our own island! Somewhere in the South Pacific, perhaps? Or the Caribbean? Or maybe the Mediterranean? Hmm, they all sound like paradise to me! And the isolation will definitely work in our favor. No neighbors to disturb. No cops to call. How perfect!

Joan said...

you need mead:


Nice recipe Minna but you could just....

Drink the bottle ya brought back from Ireland 6 years ago (hic) because then you start seeing Fae princes...and (giggle)

Joan said...

I LOVE the idea of a CLUE like party.

It was the kitten, with the stillto, under the shield in The Lair :-)

Caren Crane said...

Virginia, congratulations on the GR! Er...he may need a bit of exercise. He's been hitting the treats since Halloween!

Kate, I am the worst person for party ideas. All I want from a party is: a bunch of friends and family, loads of food and music that never stops. Dancing is mandatory, singing is preferred and hangovers are optional. *g*

Speaking of parties, don't miss us on RNTV this week! It will be a HUGE Bandits Bash over there, with prizes each day. Check it out at: Romance Novel TV. See you there!

Caren Crane said...

Oooh, we're getting an island? And playing Clue at the party? It was Joanie in the billiards room with the coconut! (Hey, if we're on an island, there are bound to be coconuts! *g*)

Kate Carlisle said...

LOL Joanie! I think we need a reverse intervention to get you to OPEN that bottle! {hic} Especially if we can all start seeing those hunky Fae warrior princes! {hic}

And I love the CLUE party idea, too!

Kate Carlisle said...

Hi Caren! I must admit, my favorite kind of party is where I just get to show up and good food, friends, music and drinkies are all waiting for me!

Ooh, a coconut would make a great murder weapon! Hmm ... bibliophile mystery goes tropical ... I like it!

Inactive Account said...

How about a birthday party or maybe send out birth announcements for your book?

Maureen said...

Congratulations on the upcoming book and you need to have a toga party.

Fedora said...

Belated hoorays on your upcoming launch, Kate! How incredibly thrilling! I admit I'm a bit of a bore, but to celebrate such a literary triumph, I'd love a party that included a little mini-book-making session--you could have miniature copies of your cover, of course, and maybe the first chapter, or at least a teaser and the blurb printed up small, and then guests could use a variety of gorgeous papers to create their own little commemorative books to celebrate! (I know, it probably sounds horribly nerdy, but I would LOVE to do something like this ;)) And of course, for those of us with a few left thumbs, the hunky cabana boys could be trained in the fine arts of book-making and assist as desired ;) Delish cocktails and snacks to follow...

Congrats on the GR, Virginia!

Kate Carlisle said...

Hi DeLyn, what a cute idea, sending out birth announcements for a new book!

LOL Maureen! I love the idea of a toga party! I think Joanie would kill me -- it's the perfect idea for her launch party! (Which I predict will be very soon!!)

Fedora, thanks so much for the congrats. I'm very excited, of course! And I don't think bookbinding is nerdy, but then I guess I'm prejudiced! And if you add in some cabana boys and cocktails, the whole exercise could get very, mmm ... steamy and fun, very quickly! Not nerdy at all! :-)

Michele L. said...

WOOHOO! Congatulations on your book Kate! That is exciting!

Ooo...loving all the drinks mentioned here. How about the good ol Long Island Iced Tea? That is so yummy! Oh, and you can never go wrong with an Old Fashioned on the Rocks. That is my hubby's favorite.
Strawberry Margarita's are always a big hit served with a wedge of lime.

As for interesting party ideas why don't you do a hawaiian theme party? I went to Luau once at a friend's house and she had all the decorations, drinks served in hollowed out pineapples, stuffed parrots sitting on tree limbs outside by her deck, pretty lanterns hanging outside along with lit tiki torches, hawaiian music playing, horduerves served on a pineapple tray, hawaiian type food, plus she had leis and grass skirts for everyone to put on. We all were wearing either floral shirts (& pants) or dresses. We had a blast! We were dancing, singing, doing the limbo on her outside deck, ate and drank way to much, and then played hawaiian bingo with hawaiian themed prizes. That was the most memorable party I ever went to!

Michele L. said...

Hi Kate,

Just remembered another cool party I went to. My office through a Christmas party at the Radisson hotel. It was a nice buffet with an open bar. The entertainment was a live concert at the theater adjoining the hotel. The Grassroots, Herman's Hermits, and The Buckinghams were appearing that night. It was a blast! Peter Moon actually sang all the songs and came into the audience and talked with everyone. I got a hug from him!

Maybe have a party at your nearest hotel that adjoins a theater. I have gone with my girlfriends to many concerts at the South Bend Morris Civic Center and we have had a wonderful time! There are always many restaurants to choose from.

So if you don't have time on your hands to come up with decorations, props, programs, food, or drinks, go to your favorite restaurant and catch a great concert!

Kate Carlisle said...

Hi Michele, thanks for the congrats!! I'm really getting psyched for the big launch!

Now, all those drinks you mentioned are on the permanent menu at my house. I must make sure the cabana boy bartenders have plenty of supplies to keep them coming!

And that luau you went to sounds fabulous! Very festive -- and just a bit wild! My kind of party! *g*

Kate Carlisle said...

Wow, Michele, I love all those groups--definitely a blast from the past! Must've been such fun!

And I always like the idea of just showing up for a party and having waiters and chefs and everyone else take care of all the details so I can just concentrate on having fun. :-)

Unknown said...

Hello Kate, I hope I am not to late in posting. My party suggestion would be an adult pajama party in a large 3 story cabin in the Mountains. Roaring fires, drinks and romance. (SOunds like my dream vacation) My drink for the party is:

X-Rated Shocktini

1 part X-Rated Fusion
1 part Absolut Ruby Red
Splash Mango Nectar

Combine the ingredients in a shaker with masses of ice and then strain into chilled Cocktail glass.