Monday, November 1, 2010

It's Our One Year Anniversary!

Today we begin our week long party in celebration of our 1 year anniversary! Can you believe that it has been a year already? We sure can’t! It has been a year full of surprises, wonders and lots of love. But we will talk about all that another day. Let’s get this party started! And can there possibly be a better way to start the festivities than with a tale of wicked women and sexy men? I sure don’t think so!


A Tale of Four Wicked Women

Narrated by Kimberly Killion
*Let’s call her “Lady Jane” for discretion*

Ahem. Come closer. I’m going to tell you a tale that will make your ears burn… *Lady Jane checks over her shoulder for eavesdroppers, snaps her fan open to cover her mouth, and leans in as far as she can in a corset that is stealing her air.*

Once upon a time, in a land not so far away, there lived four wicked women: Lady Buffie, Lady Gannon, Lady Andrea, and the wickedest of all was Lady PJ.

A year past, at a soiree in Georgia, they formed this seedy little place now known as The Romance Dish. You cannot fathom the patrons that frequent this establishment—strumpets and vixens and vamps the lot of them. From time to time, you’ll even find a handsome rake hugging the wall. *Lady Jane pauses momentarily to admire the waiter (for he has a fine bum).*

“Excuse me, sir. Might I trouble you for a spot of your finest bubbly?”

*The waiter pivots on his heel.*

Oh my good Heavens! Is that…? It is!!! “Gerry, darling. So good of you to join us for the party. Come. Sit with me a spell until our honored guests arrive.

*Gerry does as he’s told (because that’s what every hero does in all the best books) and snuggles up next to Jane on the settee.

Now, where was I? Ah, yes, I was about to tell you about the ladies of The Romance Dish. They had a flaw—they loved to “dish”. Gossipmongers if you will. What one might call a blatherskite, a scandal-bearer, a long-nose. And all four ladies had a secret love for the written word and this is what brought them together and precisely what landed them into a scandal. You see, Lady Buffie, Lady Gannon, Lady Andrea, and Lady PJ were all having a secret love affair with the same man.

*Gerry gasps. His powder-blue eyes widen.*

Oh, I know. It was quite the scuttlebutt. Every scandal sheet in London was aflutter talking about it. His name was Alpha, better known as Mr. Male. He was mysterious. A man with a past if you will. Tall, dark and handsome, of course, but he’d been wounded and betrayed by a former love. *Sigh*

“What happened?” Gerry leans closer, his scent of pine and man is damn distracting.

Our ladies healed him. After that, the male patrons began to flock The Romance Dish. Each and every one had a story to tell and Lady Buffie, Lady Gannon, Lady Andrea, and Lady PJ were all eager to listen to their woes. Some had lost loved ones in wars, some had buried their children, and some had lost loves, but they all shared a single trait—they were heroic. When the girls get here, we must ask them who their favorite hero was.

Oh, here they are now. Ladies! Ladies! Over here.

Enters Lady Buffie: Lady Jane! So lovely to see you here. I cannot tell you how excited I am to have you hosting opening day of our one year anniversary party!

Lady Jane: I wouldn’t have missed it for the world. I was just telling a few of the guests who arrived early about the scandal that started it all. You all have serviced so many here. What I want to know is who was your favorite rogue? *Lady Jane gestures for everyone to join Gerry on the settee. It’s a tight fit, but we manage.*


Let’s hear from Lady Andrea first…


Lady Andrea: Oh, my. There have been so many, but if I must choose . . . I will go with Jax Cullen from Simply Irresistible by Jill Shalvis. Because, you see, Jax is simply irresistible. Just ask his heroine. She totally agrees with me that there is nothing sexier than a hot biker (with tattoos in just the right places) and a heart of solid gold. *fans self* I mean, the man left his life as a successful, high-profile attorney to come back to his home town to do what he loves: work with his hands (mmm-hmmm) and help out his neighbors. Talk about sexy. Plus, he's smart, honorable, protective, and has a wicked sense of humor. Tell me, what's not to love?

Lady Gannon interrupts: Oh, you know I have a weakness for charming rogues *leans toward Gerry and winks*, and I have been fortunate to have crossed paths with many this year. Two who really stand out in my memory are Lord Mac Mackenzie (Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage by Jennifer Ashley) and Roarke (Fantasy In Death by J.D. Robb). Who wouldn't love a handsome Highlander like Mac? He is charming, rakish, sexy, often frustrating, but loving and loyal to a fault. Plus, he's an incredibly talented artist who paints wearing ONLY his kilt. Oh, yes! And then there's Roarke, a man who needs only one name. Richer than Croesus, tall, dark, and gorgeous with a lilting Irish brogue---Roarke is practically perfect in every way. *sigh* As you can see, I have a weakness for heroes with accents. *another wink and a pat on Gerry's knee*

Lady Buffie waves her hands: You ladies know how much I love sexy men (smiles seductively at Gerry and bats her lashes). And though it is hard for me to pick one favorite out of a sea of sexy men, I will have to chose Gabriel St. John, The Marquess of Ralston (Nine Rules To Break When Romancing A Rake by Sarah MacLean). Mercy, the man makes my heart pitter-patter with a single thought. Any man who says a kiss should not leave you satisfied, but instead it should leave you wanting certainly knows his way around a woman AND the bedroom (or rather any room he pleases). My attraction to Gabriel is not based on physical needs only. Oh no! See, Gabriel is the kind of hero who shows his lady the joy of life and that life should be lived to the fullest every single day. Now what woman wouldn’t want days filled with fun and laughter and nights filled with (lightly strokes a finger along Gerry’s jaw) passion?

Lady PJ stands up, snaps her fan open and begins: You are all forgetting about those sexy Highlanders who were my very special guests this year. Of course, I’m talking about Jamie Sinclair (The Devil Wears Plaid by Teresa Medeiros) and Tristan MacGregor (Paula Quinn’s Seduced by a Highlander). Who can resist Jamie, a strapping Highlander who literally rides to the rescue, storming a chapel on his huge black stallion and stealing his heroine from the evil old man she’s being forced to marry? Or Tristan, a charming Highland rogue, determined to overcome all obstacles, including two families and, at times, even the heroine herself, to secure the love of the one woman in the world capable of healing his wounded heart? ::Sigh:: Those certainly were memorable visits.

*Everyone sighs. Jane fears this may turn into Swoonfest 1810.*

Lady Jane: Well, I can see why so many keep coming back here. *A crowd has gathered.* Let’s hear from you all now. Who were your favorite heroes this year? And which heroes are you looking forward to meeting?


See, I told you this tale would be the perfect way to start the celebration. Now, be sure to answer Lady Jane's questions about your favorite heroes and who you are looking forward to meeting. Four random commenters will win prize packages. This giveway is open to everyone!

~ Buffie

135 comments:

  1. I'm so sorry, ladies. I know you want a book hero, but I can't get past "Gerry", as you call him, our movie hero. When you said the following, I thought you were talking about Mr. Butler: "Talk about sexy. Plus, he's smart, honorable, protective, and has a wicked sense of humor. Tell me, what's not to love?" Ahhhhhh, now I can swoon too! I would REALLY swoon if I met him, LOL, but a woman can dream. Ahhhhhh (again).

    Tell you what. I'm going to sit down with some chocolate (after all, there ARE some leftover Halloween treats here), pour myself a drink, and give this more thought. It's the least I can do for such an auspicious occasion! (It's a dirty job etc. etc. etc.)

    Heartfelt congrats on the big anniversary. Here's to many moooooooore! (Can you hear me singing? If you can, put some tissue in your ears, as I'm a terrible singer -- but that has never stopped me from trying!)

    Signed, another wicked woman who loves sexy men.... In fact, you can call me Lady Laney for discretion, of course!

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  2. Happy Anniversary, Buffie, Gannon, Andrea and PJ. One of my favorite heroes this year is Shane Murray from Barbara Freethy's "On Shadow Beach." He was the town bad boy, but of course he's more than that. I'm looking forward to meeting the hero of Julie Anne Long's upcoming release(2/11.) It's the fifth book in her Pennyroyal series and the hero is a duke.

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  3. Happy Anniversary to you all!
    I'm going to agree with Andrea and say Jax Cullen is one of my favorite heroes. He displays every quality I love in a hero. Sigh.

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  4. Happy Anniversary ladies!! Well I have to agree with Lady Gannon, my fantasy man is Roarke from the In Death series. He's a somewhat reformed bad boy with an Irish accent and he's totally HOT!!!I'm looking forward to meeting him again when I get my hands on him I mean Indulgence In Death coming out very soon. He can indulge me any time.

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  5. Woo Hoo Ladies what an awesome post and huge congratulations on your first anniversary this is a great place to hang out.

    One of my favourite heros this year is Julian from Pamela Clare's Hard Evidence what a hero to die for and closely followed by The Marquess of Ralston yes Buffie he is another hero to die for LOL

    Way to go Ladies you all rock

    Have Fun
    Helen

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  6. Happy Anniversary and wishes for many more years to come!

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  7. Happy Anniversary! It's been fun to visit you each day and see what you have to say. One of my favorite rouges from this year is William de Vere from the Libertine's Kiss by Judith James.

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  8. I'm so sorry, ladies. I know you want a book hero, but I can't get past "Gerry",

    That's okay, Laney. We understand! There's plenty of Gerry to go around. Did you notice we placed him conveniently next to the champagne fountain? Feel free to indulge...in both! *g*

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  9. Hi Jane! I read Suddenly One Summer but haven't gotten to On Shadow Beach yet. Too many books and not enough time. :(
    I'm looking forward to meeting Shane!

    I'm looking forward to meeting the hero of Julie Anne Long's upcoming release(2/11.)

    Oh, me too! I love her Pennyroyal Green series!

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  10. Thanks, Trisha! Jax arrived in my mailbox Saturday and I'm very much looking forward to making his acquaintance! *g*

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  11. Thanks for the good wishes, Linda!

    Well I have to agree with Lady Gannon, my fantasy man is Roarke from the In Death series.

    One of these days, I'm going to have to meet this man. Gannon raves about him and it seems everyone else who's read his story does too. I do love a (somewhat) reformed bad boy! :)

    Speaking of bad boys, have you met our waiters yet? They're serving up quite the array of delicious goodies...lots of great food and drink too! ::grin::

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  12. ::waving to Helen::

    Thanks for stopping by, Helen! We're happy to hang with you too! Grab a drink and some food from one of our sexy waiters and join the fun.

    I haven't read Hard Evidence yet. One more to add to my book list!

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  13. Happy Anniversary and wishes for many more years to come!

    Thanks, Marisa! We love seeing your smiling face around here. Now, grab and drink and join the fun!

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  14. It's been fun to visit you each day and see what you have to say.

    Thank you, Maureen. We've had fun too and appreciate YOU for stopping by each day!

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  15. I love all of Pamela Clare's heroes both historical: Iain and Morgan MacKinnon and contemporary:Zach in Breaking Point,Gabe in Naked Edge, Julian in Hard Evidence already mentioned.

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  16. I gotta say I LOVED Gabriel from Nine Rules by Sarah MacLean :D :D :D Can we say hotttt?!

    Hero I'm most looking forward to? Definitely Gabriel's twin brother, Nick in Ten Ways, the second book by Sarah MacLean!

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  17. Happy Anniversary to us! Woohoo! Thanks to everyone for joining us for our celebration!

    Laney, I don't blame you one bit. Gerry has that effect on all of us. *g*

    Oh, Jane, I love a good bad boy. I'm going to need to check out Shane. ;-)

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  18. Thanks, Trisha! I knew you'd like Jax. ;-)

    Linda, one of these days I'm going to have to read an In Death book and "meet" Roarke. *g*

    Hey, Helen! Thanks for partying with us!!

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  19. Thanks, Marisa! We always enjoy when you stop by. :)

    Maureen, we appreciate you checking in with us so often! It's thanks to people just like you that we've had such a successful first year. :)

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  20. Hi, Laurie! I suppose I need to check out Pamela Clare's books!

    romanceaddict91, thanks for stopping by! I love Gabriel, too, and am looking forward to getting to know Nick better in Ten Ways.

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  21. My favorite hero this year actually came from a classic book that I read for the first time - John Thornton from Elizabeth Gaskell's North and South (not to be confused with the American book of the same name). If you haven't read it yet, do so - and then watch the movie. Amazing!

    And happy one year anniversary!

    Margay

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  22. I so love some highlanders, I would have to pick Jamie Sinclair from "The Devil Who Wears Plaid" too. Just rode that horse right into the chapel and took her. Yeah, gotta love it.

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  23. Laney, we understand how you feel about Gerry. We're rather fond of him, too. ;-)

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  24. Jane, I haven't read ON SHADOW BEACH, but Shane sounds like my kind of hero. I have a weakness for bad boys. *g*

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  25. Trisha, I'm hoping to "meet" Jax soon. After hearing Andrea, and now you, say how sexy he is, I definitely need to find out for myself. :-)

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  26. Ah, Linda, a fellow Roarke lover. You obviously have wonderful taste! What's not to love about our Roarke??? I was lucky enough to read INDULGENCE IN DEATH already, and I can promise you that you will love it.

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  27. Thanks, Helen. We're glad you are here for our big party! Make sure those sexy waiters indulge you. ;-)

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  28. Marisa, (((hugs))) to one of our favorite people. Kick back and enjoy the celebration!

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  29. Maureen, we are glad that you stop by to see what's going on around here. Thanks for being a "Dish." *g*

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  30. Congratulations on your first anniversary, lovely Dishes! You've made this one of my favorite places in cyber space.

    I know I'm in a minority in my love for beta heroes. It's not that some alphas don't steal my heart--and my breath--away, but betas were an early and lasting love. Among my favorites from this year's heroes are Carter MacGuire fron Nora Roberts's Vision in White, Walt Arneson from Robyn Carr's A Summer in Sonoma, and Sebastian, Viscount Iverley from Miranda Neville's The Dangerous Viscount. Sigh!!!

    I'm looking forward to more heart-stealing heroes in 2011. At the top of my anticipation list are the heroes of The Lady Most Likely. Three heroes in one book created by three of my favorite authors (C. Brockway, E. James, and J. Quinn)--how often does that happen?

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  31. I LOVE this blog post! What a way to kick off an anniversary celebration. When you ladies decide to throw a bash, y'all do it right! ;)

    First-Gerry Butler. I loved him as the Phantom in Phantom of the Opera! What was so impressive to me is that he didn't have a musical background like his co-stars Emmy Rossum and Patrick Wilson (another yummy, delicious, swoon-worthy guy ::Sigh::) but still held his own and did a great job.

    Now, to the question at hand. I am reading Sarah MacLean's 10 Ways right now and loving it! :) Other heroes I've enjoyed reading/meeting this year is Jack Pallas from Julie James' Something About You. Who doesn't like a tall dark, sexy smoldering FBI Agent?? And I do have a soft spot for Spencer, Rhys, and Julian from Tessa Dare's Stud Club trilogy (A Duke, a Rogue, and a Scoundrel? Sign me up!). And there is Delaney Brown and Mal Kavanaugh from NR's Wedding Quartet who were also quite sigh/swoon worthy as well.

    So many heroes to adore, so little time. ::Sigh::

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  32. Congratulations on your first anniversary, ladies! You may be wicked, but you're also four of the nicest gals to inhabit romancelandia!

    One of my fave heroes in this year's fantastic crop of books is Peregrine Dalmay from Loretta Chase's Last Night's Scandal. Not only is he handsome, resourceful and funny, he's an archeologist. There's just something about a man with a tool (ahem!) that I find simply irresistable.

    I also just read an older novel by Teresa Medeiros - Thief Of Hearts. Captain Doom is a totally swoon-worthy hero if there ever was one!

    Enjoy your day, ladies! Here's to many more to come.

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  33. Happy Anniversary and thank you for letting me snuggle up next to Gerry for the latest on dit. My favorite hero? Today I would say (I ‘m afraid I can be rather generous in sharing my favors…. the so many heroes thing…) Julia Quinn’s Michael Stirling from When He Was Wicked. Here is to another year of Dish and roguish heroes.

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  34. Good choices, Laurie! I've enjoyed Pamela's historical heroes. Have yet to read her contemps.

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  35. romanceaddict91 said, I gotta say I LOVED Gabriel from Nine Rules by Sarah MacLean :D :D :D Can we say hotttt?!

    I have got to read these books! Both are on my tbr stack and I'm looking forward to reading them, especially after meeting Sarah (she's an absolute doll - so nice!)last summer at RWA National in Orlando. I just need to find some time!

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  36. Hi Margay! You said, My favorite hero this year actually came from a classic book that I read for the first time - John Thornton from Elizabeth Gaskell's North and South (not to be confused with the American book of the same name).

    The movie is wonderful but I haven't read the book yet. Thanks for the recommendation!

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  37. Dianna said, I so love some highlanders, I would have to pick Jamie Sinclair from "The Devil Who Wears Plaid" too. Just rode that horse right into the chapel and took her. Yeah, gotta love it.

    I know! Jamie is one sexy devil. Made my heart pound and my knees weak. ::Sigh::

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  38. *squeezes in next to Gerry*

    Don't worry! There's plenty of room. Everybody just move a little and we'll be good. Kinda hard to breathe now . . .

    My favorite hero? This year? Yikes. I don't think I can narrow it down without a lot of research. And I don't want any of them getting jealous. Thank goodness we have so many choices, with new ones arriving every month!

    Donna Cummings

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  39. Congratulations on your first anniversary, lovely Dishes! You've made this one of my favorite places in cyber space.

    Thank you, Janga! We're so thrilled to have you as a part of our team, both as a (fabulous) guest reviewer and a regular visitor!

    Those are some terrific beta heroes! Like you, I adored Miranda Neville's Sebastian!

    At the top of my anticipation list are the heroes of The Lady Most Likely. Three heroes in one book created by three of my favorite authors (C. Brockway, E. James, and J. Quinn)--how often does that happen?

    Not often enough, in my opinion! Be sure to come back tomorrow. One of those authors will be our very special guest!

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  40. Happy Anniversary! I can't believe a year has passed since this began. Huge congratulations on running such an awesome site! And here's to many more years.

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  41. Happy Anniversary ladies! Sounds like you have a fun week planned!

    I am so far behind on my reading. I have most of the books mentioned in the post but haven't read them yet! sign...must read faster!

    For example, I have Sarah MacLean's Nine Rules on my TBR mountain but I didn't know the hero had a twin who is the hero in Sarah's next book Ten Ways......note to self...read a lot faster! LOL

    Now that I think of it, my favorite heroes are the twin heroes in Julia Quinn's "The Lost Duke of Wyndham' and 'Mr. Cavendish, I Presume', both Hot Heroes IMO.

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  42. Happy Anniversary!

    I love a hot Scot as much as the next lass, but Sebastian of Miranda Neville's "The Dangerous Viscount" really did it for me this year. That slow reveal from nerd to dandy put me firmly in his corner.

    As for who I'm looking forward to, Nick from Sarah MacLean's "Ten Ways to be Adored When Landing a Lord" is a definite possibility. I loved him in "Nine Rules..." already (he was nice to Callie).

    Any more vodka martinis and cute bartenders?

    ironss[at]gmail.com

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  43. I LOVE this blog post! What a way to kick off an anniversary celebration. When you ladies decide to throw a bash, y'all do it right! ;)

    Why thank you, Lisa! So glad you enjoyed it! Kimberly Killion makes a wonderful narrator, don't you think?

    That's quite an array of heroes you have listed. I'm with you on Jack and also Tessa's three heroes. Some definite drool-worthy material there!

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  44. Vanessa said, Congratulations on your first anniversary, ladies! You may be wicked, but you're also four of the nicest gals to inhabit romancelandia!

    Aww. Thanks! You're pretty nice yourself!

    One of my fave heroes in this year's fantastic crop of books is Peregrine Dalmay from Loretta Chase's Last Night's Scandal.

    I agree! Peregrine was a wonderful hero!

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  45. Hi Kat! Glad to have you here!

    Michael is one of my favorite JQ heroes. Have you read the 2nd epilogue for When He Was Wicked? So very good!

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  46. LOL @ allaboutthewriting! Don't worry about squeezing us out of the Gerry group. Believe me, we're used to it!

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  47. Thank you so much, Ely! We're finding it a bit hard to believe a whole year has gone by too.

    Thanks too for promoting the Dish with all your RTs at twitter!

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  48. Karen H in NC said, I am so far behind on my reading. I have most of the books mentioned in the post but haven't read them yet! sign...must read faster!

    But think of all the fabulous heroes you've yet to meet! What fun you have ahead!

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  49. Congrats on the one year anniversary! It's been fun to be along for the ride and to hear about all the swoon-worth heroes over the past year. I too have a fascination with Roarke...I just discovered that series this year and devoured them all! can't wait for tomorrow and the next installment :)

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  50. Any more vodka martinis and cute bartenders?

    Don't worry, Sheree. There's plenty of drinks and more than enough cute bartenders to go around! Enjoy the party!

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  51. Congrats on the one year anniversary! It's been fun to be along for the ride and to hear about all the swoon-worth heroes over the past year. I too have a fascination with Roarke...I just discovered that series this year and devoured them all! can't wait for tomorrow and the next installment :)

    Thanks, JWZ! We're glad you decided to take the ride with us!

    Wow, you read all 31 books? Roarke must be really good! ;-)

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  52. I really like this blog and want to offer sincere congratulations on it.

    I don't know that I have any favorite heroes from this year. Of the one's I've read, I like to meet all that are alpha!

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  53. Congratulations, Ladies! You have done a tremendously super job here at TRD!!!

    One of my fave heroes was Gabriel from Nine Rules and his brother Nick is becoming one. I read a book from Suzanne Enoch's backlist and I have to include Saint (St. Aubyn) as one of my fave heroes from this last year because it was a new read for me.

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  54. I have to agree with everyone that picked Roarke, Jack Pallas and Gabriel St. John.

    Some other great heroes worth meeting are Nicholas Brisbane from Deanna Raybourn's Silent series, the Earl of Ardmay from I Kissed an Earl and finally, Jack Cooke from Bed of Roses.

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  55. Happy Anniversay! Love this blog, many great years to come.

    I apparently have a thing for Harrys. Two of my favorite guys are Harry Pye from Hoyt's, THE LEOPARD PRINCE and Harry Braxton from Brockway's, AS YOU DESIRE.

    And since everyone is talking about Pamela Clare's heroes...Team Gabe!! I heart Gabe Rossiter. :)

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  56. CONGRATULATIONS!!!! How can this year have gone so quickly?

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  57. Happy Anniversary ladies.
    My favorite alpha hero I met this year was Sam from Suz Brockmann's Troubleshooter series. I would love to fall in love with Jax from Simply Irresistable. He sounds like my type of man
    Love & Hugs,
    Pam

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  58. Laurie, I will definitely have to read Pamela Clare's books to check out your favorite heroes.

    romanceaddict91, I completely agree with you about Gabriel!

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  59. Happy Anniversary!!
    I enjoyed Tarquin in Anna Campbell's My Reckless Surrender. I can't stop thinking about him!!

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  60. Happy anniversary ladies may it be followed by many many more :D

    Call me fickle, I don't care, but I can't pick a favorite from the past year. I loved each one in their own special way ;) Such wonderful heroes introduced to us by Hoyt, Cambell, Maclean, Laurens, Howell, Kleypas, Jeffries and the list goes on. How could I possibly choose.

    Who am I looking forward to meeting? That list is rather long too I fear--did I mention it was ok to call me fickle ;) Please don't make me choose -- I'd hate to hurt anyone's feelings.

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  61. Happy Anniversary ladies!! I'm going with Lord Mac Mackenzie in Lady Isabella’s Scandalous Marriage
    by Jennifer Ashley. He’s a tall Scotsman with a hot bod, and he paints wearing nothing but a kilt and a gypsy scarf to keep paint out of his hair.
    I look forward to meeting Giles Masters in Sabrina Jeffries, How to Woo a Reluctant Lady.

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  62. Happy Anniversary, ladies! Hopefully there will be more to come!

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  63. chilty1014 said, I really like this blog and want to offer sincere congratulations on it.

    Thank you! We're so glad you stopped by to visit!

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  64. Congratulations, Ladies! You have done a tremendously super job here at TRD!!!

    Thanks, Deb! We couldn't have done it without our loyal visitors!

    One of my fave heroes was Gabriel from Nine Rules and his brother Nick is becoming one.

    Okay, I can see that I need to move these two books to the top of my tbr!

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  65. Good choices, Penfield! And more books to add to my tbb list! :)

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  66. Happy Anniversay! Love this blog, many great years to come.

    Thank you, Scorpio! We certainly hope so!

    Ah yes, those were two very memorable heroes named Harry!

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  67. CONGRATULATIONS!!!! How can this year have gone so quickly?

    Hardly seems possible, does it, Becke? Do you realize it's been almost 18 months since we shared the cozy cab ride in DC?

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  68. Thanks, Pam! Sam is a very good choice and, like you, I'm looking forward to falling in love with Jax!

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  69. runner10 said, I enjoyed Tarquin in Anna Campbell's My Reckless Surrender. I can't stop thinking about him!!

    Tarquin was a wonderful hero! He stayed with me for a long time after I finished the book too.

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  70. Ladies... OMG!! Thank you so much for Gerard!! I'm drooling here!

    !!!HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

    As for my favorite hero so far this year, it was close, but I'd have to say Sinclair from THE DEVIL WEARS PAID. *sigh* I just love a Highlander!

    I'm looking forward to Quinn from THE WICKED HIGHLANDER by Donna Grant.

    Hmmm, I'm thinking there's a pattern here... Highlanders are my Heros! Lol!

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  71. Wow, looks like everyone is enjoying the party! I've been away at work all day, but am really looking forward to see who everyone has picked as their favorite hero.

    Thank you all so much for making The Romance Dish such a success!!!

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  72. Laney4, girl, who could get past Gerry??!!!?? That man is just too fine to pass up anytime, anywhere!

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  73. Thanks so much, Jane. You know, I haven't read ON SHADOW BEACH, but if the hero is worthy of your praise, then I sure do need to check him, ahem, the book out!

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  74. Hey Trisha! So it's Jax for you too, huh? Guess I better pull out my copy of that book and read it!!!

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  75. Thanks for stopping by Linda Henderson! You know, I have yet to read any of Nora's books! I know, I know! I must change that and soon. I hear so many wonderful things about Roarke.

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  76. Hey there Helen!! I *knew* I could count on you to agree with me about Gabriel. And since you mentioned HARD EVIDENCE, I'm going to have to find that book. We like so many of the same things that I'm sure I'll love it too. Thanks!

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  77. Thanks for the wishes, Marisa! It has a been a fabulous year!

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  78. Thanks, Maureen!

    Oooh, now, I just love that title (THE LIBERTINE'S KISS). Makes me think of dark, seductive scenes. Something I really enjoy!! :-)

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  79. Hey Laurie! Another mention for Julian in HARD EVIDENCE. I really need to find this book! LOL!

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  80. Hey there, Romanceaddict91!!! I'm so glad you agree with me on Gabriel. Yummm ummmm! I'll be reading about Nick soon . . . very soon!!

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  81. Margay, thanks for the recommendation. I haven't read that one (or the American one).

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  82. So, Dianna, you love a man who takes what he wants? SIGH Me too, girll, me too. Especially when he's a hunky Highlander!!!

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  83. Thanks, Janga! And thanks for the guest reviews you do for us!!!

    I have to agree about Sebastian. He is a swoon-worthy hero.

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  84. Lisa, I just love your list of hunky heroes!! Great choices there.

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  85. Thanks for stopping by Vanessa!!! I have to say that I loved Captain Doom. Wasn't he great?!!

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  86. Kat, fabulous choice!!!! Michael is one of my top 10 sexiest heroes! WHEN HE WAS WICKED is my favorite JQ book. Love, love, love it! Have you heard Michael Buble's rendition of FIRE? That sexy song could be the soundtrack for that book. Great choice!

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  87. Thanks so much Elyssa! It is so hard to believe a year has come and gone. We are hoping (and wishing) for many, many more.

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  88. Hey Karen H in NC!!!

    Yes, you need to pull out NINE RULES and read, read, read!!! I'm sure you will love Gabriel just as much as I will.

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  89. Hey Sheree!

    I love a hot Scot as much as the next lass, but Sebastian of Miranda Neville's "The Dangerous Viscount" really did it for me this year. That slow reveal from nerd to dandy put me firmly in his corner.

    Wasn't that just a fabulous book?! I really loved it. And I loved how Sebastian held on to some of his "bookish" qualities.

    As for who I'm looking forward to, Nick from Sarah MacLean's "Ten Ways to be Adored When Landing a Lord" is a definite possibility. I loved him in "Nine Rules..." already (he was nice to Callie).

    I can't wait to read this one. It's in the que, just have to find the time!! :0

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  90. It's been fun to be along for the ride and to hear about all the swoon-worth heroes over the past year. I too have a fascination with Roarke...

    JWZ1978, we are so glad you joined us on this wild and crazy ride! So, you are a Roarke fan, huh? I hear he is a fabulous hero. One day maybe I'll get to read those books!

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  91. I really like this blog and want to offer sincere congratulations on it.

    chilty1024, we are so glad you enjoy stopping by our place. Thanks so much!

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  92. Hey Deb!!!

    Woohooo, another lover of Gabriel!!!

    You know, Saint is one of Andrea's all time favorite heros!

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  93. Yay, rack up another one for Gabriel. Thanks, Penfield!

    Scorpio, you know I haven't read either of those books! But if the heroes are that great, I sure need to!!!

    Thanks, Becke!! Time is sure flying by! We have so much fun here!

    Thanks for stopping by Pamela! So you are on the Jax bandwagon too! I really need to pull that book out!

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  94. Runner10, fabulous choice there!!!

    gamistress66, so you are not a picky gal, huh? LOL! It sure is tough to pick one. I'd love to meet them all!

    kimmyl, I haven't read that book yet, but any hot Highlander that paints like that is one that I need to examine . . and closely ;-)

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  95. Happy Anniversary, ladies! Hopefully there will be more to come!

    Thanks, Antonio! We sure hope there will be LOTS more!

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  96. Since I just discovered Karen Marie Moning (I know where have I been? Me! A card Carrying Kilt worshiper!)
    I am going to go with Durstan MacKeltar from "Kiss of the Highlander" *MELT*


    Oh, Karyn, aren't you lucky to have just discovered that series by KMM!!!! Durstan is definitely MELT worthy. Have you read Adam Black's book yet? OMG!!!!! He is SO FREAKIN' HAWT!!!

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  97. Ladies... OMG!! Thank you so much for Gerard!! I'm drooling here!

    Monica, you are so welcome . . . BUT there is no drooling ON Gerry! Sorry, but that is reserved only for the four Dishes! LOL!!!!

    Great choice in Jamie!! Love those Highlanders!!

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  98. Deb said: I read a book from Suzanne Enoch's backlist and I have to include Saint (St. Aubyn) as one of my fave heroes from this last year because it was a new read for me.

    Deb, Saint is one of my all-time favorite heroes and my #1 bad boy of all time. I'm so glad to hear you loved his book! I've read that book so many times. Sigh...

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  99. Pamela Keener said: I would love to fall in love with Jax from Simply Irresistable. He sounds like my type of man.

    Pamela, I promise you will fall in love with Jax. He is awesome. :)

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  100. Buffie said: You know, Saint is one of Andrea's all time favorite heros!

    You know me so well, Buffie! I heart Saint. :p

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  101. Happy Anniversary Ladies!
    My favourite hero is still Jamie Fraser from the Outlander series.

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  102. Margay, I keep hearing so much about North and South (the movie), and now you're raving about the book. Looks like I MUST check out both!

    Dianna, I think any Scot is worthy hero material, and Teresa writes some wonderful ones. :-)

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  103. Janga, thanks for being part of our blog with your wonderful guest reviews!

    While a love alpha heroes, there are some yummy beta heroes out there, too. I loved Carter!

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  104. So many heroes to adore, so little time. ::Sigh::

    Lisa, I couldn't agree more! *g*

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  105. You may be wicked, but you're also four of the nicest gals to inhabit romancelandia!

    Vanessa, what a nice thing to say. :-) We think you're pretty fab, too. Thanks for always supporting us.

    Oh, Captain Doom! Good choice!

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  106. Here is to another year of Dish and roguish heroes.

    Hear, hear, Kat!! LOL

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  107. Donna, I agree about all the new choices for heroes. So many lovely men to choose from!

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  108. Thanks, Ely! And thank you for spreading the word about our blog. :-)

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  109. KarenH, JQ writes some of the best heroes!

    Sheree said: Any more vodka martinis and cute bartenders?

    Always, Sheree!

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  110. I too have a fascination with Roarke...I just discovered that series this year and devoured them all! can't wait for tomorrow and the next installment.

    JWZ1978, welcome to the "I love and am obsessed with Roarke club." LOL

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  111. Chilty, yes to the alpha heroes! Woohoo!!


    Deb, I loved Gabriel, and I'm so looking forward to reading Nick's story. Thanks for being one of our loyal visitors!

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  112. Penfield, another Roarke lover in the house! And you have some other very fine choices, as well. :-)


    Scorpio said: I apparently have a thing for Harrys. Two of my favorite guys are Harry Pye from Hoyt's, THE LEOPARD PRINCE and Harry Braxton from Brockway's, AS YOU DESIRE.

    Yes and yes! *g*

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  113. Thanks, Becke! I certainly have no idea where the last year went. ;-)

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  114. Thanks, Pamela! I'm looking forward to getting to know Jax. ;-)


    Runner10, Anna sure can write supremely sexy heroes, can't she??!

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  115. Gamistress said: Please don't make me choose -- I'd hate to hurt anyone's feelings.

    It is hard to choose, isn't it? *g*

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  116. Kimmyl, I see you share my love of Mac! *Sigh* He is incredibly sexy, in every way.

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  117. Thank you, Antonia! We're looking forward to many more good times.

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  118. Karyn, I love those MacKeltars! Oh, yes! Bring on the plaid, baby!

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  119. Hmmm, I'm thinking there's a pattern here... Highlanders are my Heros! Lol!

    Monica, you are in very good company here. *g*

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  120. Artemis, aren't those MacKenzie men the sexiest heroes?? Mmmm mmmm!

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  121. Chey, Jamie Fraser will always have a special place in my heart. He is some kind of hero!

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  122. There are so many memorable heroes in the books I have read. If I picked one off the top of my head it would be Julie Garwood's Brodic from RANSOM. An Alpha in a kilt, and a nice guy, even if you could shake him every once in a while.

    Happy Anniversary to all of you ladies. I have enjoyed your blog since first finding it. Keep those reviews, interviews, and giveaways coming.

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  123. Happy Anniversary, my how the year has flown by!
    My favorite heroes this year were Prince Gabriel from Eloisa James' A Kiss at Midnight and Sebastian Grey from Julia Quinn's Ten Things I Love About You.
    The heroes I'm looking forward to meeting are Jamie Sinclair from Teresa Medeiros' The Devil Wears Plaid and Nick from Sarah MacLean's Ten Ways to be Adored When Landing a Lord.

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  124. Honestly I still love Roarke. And thats the first and main that comes to mind when I think of it.

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  125. Some of my fav. heroes are

    Gideon Trevithick of Anna Campbell's Captive of Sin.

    Harry Valentine from Julia Quinn's What happens in London.

    Lord Larken from Elizabeth Boyle's Confessions of a little black gown.

    And Fitzwilliam Darcy from Jane Austen's P&P.

    (I was going to add Gerry to this list but when I found out he had so many women I decided to leave him out. Not that out of list is out of mind.. but really all of you?)

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  126. ::sigh:: Late Kate as always .... oh, but look, there's still a cold bottle of bubbly left for me. Sweet!! Thanks, ladies! I'm going to need it ...

    Happy Anniversary and Best Wishes for many more to four of the most lovely and gracious and WILD women anywhere!!! I can't believe it's only been -- ooh, did somebody say HIGHLANDER? Yeow!!!

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  127. I read all your responses, and they inspired me to write you a poem:

    Gerry, oh Gerry,
    Won’t you be mine?
    I wish I could have you
    All of the time.

    Alas, there’s a lineup
    Of lots of us gals.
    We all want to have you
    As one of our pals.

    Well … pals may not be
    The right word to use,
    But if one of us “had you”,
    Would the rest of us lose?

    We’d have to move on
    To another young hunk,
    Who likes older women
    With junk in their trunk.

    I’m glad you quit smoking;
    That’s a terrible vice.
    But while on the subject,
    Can I give you advice?

    Don’t count us out
    'Cause we’re not in your league.
    We have lots going on;
    Are you intrigued?

    You should be, my dear,
    We know what we want.
    And what we want is to go
    With YOU on a jaunt.

    Matters not where,
    Or how or even when.
    Just know that you are
    One of our favourite men!

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  128. OMG Laney!!!!!!!!

    Love, love, love the poem! You are too good!!!

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  129. omg, I just realized I forgot to Congratulate you Girls on your Anniversary in my post. So sorry, but better late then never (I think): CONGRATS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    *raising glass* and here's to many more years of fun.

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  130. omg, I just realized I forgot to Congratulate you Girls on your Anniversary in my post. So sorry, but better late then never (I think): CONGRATS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Thank you, Kirsten! Don't worry about being late. You're not! We're partying all week! :)

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  131. Karyn, I'll second Buffie's squeals. KMM's Highlanders are some of my favorites! Enjoy!

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  132. Laney, your poetry skills never fail to amaze me. That was wonderful! Thank you so much!

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  133. Not late, Kate! We'll be celebrating all week! Besides, you can be excused seeing as how you've been so busy guesting all over the internet and celebrating yesterday's release of your new book, The Lies That Bind. We're looking forward to you, and your book, visiting with us here at the Dish on November 12th!

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  134. Wow, you had a party and I MISSED IT!!!! And now I see that some of my guys have been getting the lurve! Thanks, everyone!

    And, Dishies, BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAYS!!!! Long may you reign!

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  135. Buffie, I have 3 Highlander Moning books on order, I went crazy and yes!! Adam's book is one of them!!

    Karyn, you have GOT to let me know what you think about Adam's book once you read it. Mmmmm mmmm mmmmmm.

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