Tuesday, March 3, 2015

Mexican Coffee - Launch Day - #bookgiveaway


by Leslie Budewitz

Today is the launch of the first in Leslie's new series, the Seattle Spice Shop Mysteries. To celebrate, she's pouring drinks---and offering a signed copy of ASSAULT AND PEPPER to one lucky winner. To enter, leave a comment.  

In ASSAULT AND PEPPER (March 2015), Pepper’s girlfriends Laurel and Kristen take her out for a night on the town to drown her sorrows---and force her to share a bit of information she’d rather keep to herself. The three enjoy a killer dinner at Café Frida, one of the more delicious figments of my imagination, and later settle in to the Diego Lounge for music and aight cap. This recipe doubles as both coffee and dessert.

Mexican Coffee

For each drink:

½ ounce tequila
½ ounce Kahlúa
1 cup hot, strong brewed coffee
¼ to 1/3 cup vanilla ice cream
dash of cinnamon, optional

Make the coffee. Use clear glass serving cups if you can, for presentation.

Set out the ice cream. You want it partially melted.


Combine the tequila and Kahlúa in the serving cup. Pour in the coffee, add the ice cream, and add a dash of cinnamon. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

From the cover of ASSAULT AND PEPPER:

Pepper Reece, owner of the Seattle Spice Shop, thinks she can handle any kind of salty customer—until a murderer ends up in the mix…

After leaving a dicey marriage and losing a beloved job in a corporate crash, Pepper Reece has found a new zest for life running a busy spice and tea shop in Seattle’s Pike Place Market. Her aromatic creations are the talk of the town, and everyone stops by for a cup of her refreshing spice tea, even other shopkeepers and Market regulars.

But when a panhandler named Doc shows up dead on her doorstep, a Seattle Spice Shop cup in his hand, the local gossip gets too hot for Pepper to handle—especially after the police arrest Tory Finch, one of Pepper’s staffers, for murder.

Tory seems to know why she’s a suspect, but she refuses to do anything to curry favor with the cops. Convinced her reticent employee is innocent, Pepper takes it on herself to sniff out some clues. Only, if she’s not careful, Pepper’s nosy ways might make her next on the killer’s list…

INCLUDES DELICIOUS RECIPES!


ASSAULT AND PEPPER, March 3, 2015 (Berkley Prime Crime)

Leslie Budewitz is the only author to win Agatha Awards for both fiction and nonfiction—the 2013 Agatha Award for Best First Novel, for Death al Dente (Berkley Prime Crime), and the 2011 Agatha Award for Best Nonfiction, for Books, Crooks & Counselors: How to Write Accurately About Criminal Law & Courtroom Procedure (Quill Driver Books). She lives in northwest Montana with her husband, a musician and doctor of natural medicine, and their cat Ruff, a cover model and avid bird-watcher.

Connect with her on her website, on Facebook, or on Twitter.

144 comments:

  1. The coffee sounds very tasty and the book as well. Would love to be selected since I spent so much time at the PPM.

    Kathleen Bylsma

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  2. The coffee drink sounds amazing! As does the book!

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    1. Thanks, Anon. I hope you love this book as much as I do!

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  3. I definitely need to try Mexican coffee and I need to read the book. Both sound great.

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  4. Assault and Pepper sounds like a great book, and I am wondering if Pepper has any drinks with chocolate in it.... Thank you for a chance to win a copy of this book.
    myrifraf(at)gmail(dot)com

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    1. Thanks, Jen. No chocolate drinks so far, but I'm editing the third book in my Food Lovers' Village Mysteries, BUTTER OFF DEAD, which will be out in July and there's a killer cocoa recipe made with nibs!

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  5. I think the coffee sounds delightful but I would probably leave out the tequila...boring I know. Kuzlin at aol.com

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    1. The Kahlua alone would still be mighty tasty! Thanks for stopping by!

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  6. Love the Mexican Coffee, Leslie and look forward to the Seattle Spice Shop Mysteries!
    Thanks for the nice chance of the book giveaway.

    lola777_22 (at) hotmail (dot) com

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    1. Thanks, Lynn! I loved getting to visit Seattle every day from the comforts of home in Montana!

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  7. Great recipe and AWESOME book! Would love to read it! EMS591@aol.com

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  8. The Mexican Coffee brings back memories of dinners out years ago with a couple of my good work friends. Always to our favorite Mexican restaurant for Margueritas, great food and occasionally Mexican Coffee. Congrats on the release. This looks like it's going to be another great series.
    sallycootie@gmail.com

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    1. Food and memories -- so closely intertwined. I hope you love the book as much as I do!

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  9. Sounds yummy for a cold night even with ice cream in it. Just the thing to have when you're curled up with a book!

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  10. The book and the drink sound like a great combination.

    bevarcher AT me DOT com

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    1. Thanks, Booklady! Enjoy the trip to Seattle -- on the page!

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  11. Congratulations on the release! Best wishes on the new series.

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  12. Sorry! forgot to leave my e-mail: dm_richards@yahoo.com

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  13. It sounds wonderful - and since I don't drink, I fake it with Mexican Brownies: add a tsp (or more, depending on your taste buds) of chili powder to you brownies before you put them in the pan to bake them. Something about chocolate and chili together just brings out the best in both of them.

    pjcoldren AT tm.net

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    1. Chili and chocolate are a perfect combination, and yours sounds yummy! Thanks for stopping by!

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  14. A spice shop in Seattle, how cute! Can't wait to start this new series.lilflynracer at msn.com

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    1. Gotta have spice for those gray, wet days! Thanks, Amy!

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  15. I have definitely been looking at ordering this new series as I have enjoyed your other books. suefoster109@netzero.net

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    1. Thanks, Sue. They're different in a lot of ways, but the food element ties them together!

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  16. This sounds like a good book.
    sgiden at verizon(.)net

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    1. Thanks, Sandy. Always make thyme for a good mystery!

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  17. Congratulations, Leslie...happy release day! patucker54 (at aol dot com)

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    1. Thanks, Pat! I'm smiling from earring to earring!

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  18. OMG. I am drooling. Who cannot want coffee, ice cream, and a great mystery to top it off! <3

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  19. This sounds like a winning new series! I have a son who lives in the area and it's always fun reading about his turf.

    kpbarnett1941[at]aol.com

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    1. And now you've got the perfect drink to accompany you on a little armchair travel!

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  20. I'll drink to that! Congratulations, Leslie! Can't wait to pick up my copy at the store, where they are holding it for me.

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    1. Many thanks, Elaine! I hope you love it as much as I do!

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    2. I don't doubt I will. Can't wait to visit Pike Place Market again. It has been a few years.

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  21. Wow sounds like a great new series . I would love to read and review this one and also look forward to reading the rest of the series when they are available so will have to watch your facebook page for that.

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    1. Thanks, PT! GUILTY AS CINNAMON is scheduled for Dec 2015, and I'm working on A THYME TO KILL right now!

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  22. A wonderful feature and great series. Congratulations and best wishes. Delectable drink. elliotbencan(at)hotmail(dot)com

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  23. That Mexican Coffee looks yummy! Congrats on the new series!
    afarage(at) earthlink.net

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    1. Thanks, Alicia. A tad early in the day to drink it, but never to early for a good recipe -- or a good mystery!

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  24. The coffee sounds delicious and the book is going on my TBR list. Thank you for the giveaway.
    dmskrug3(at)hotmail(dot)com

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    1. Many thanks, Daniele! I promise you tasty food and a solid mystery!

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  25. This series sounds intriguing. Thanks for this giveaway. saubleb(at)gmail(dot)com

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    1. Thanks, Traveler, from Pepper and the Spice Shop crew!

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  26. Happy Release Day! I can't wait to add more spice to my life!

    cozyupwithkathy @ gmail dot com

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    1. If no one ever said a good mystery is the spice of life, let me be the first! Thanks, Kathy!

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    2. Wow, that is so true!!

      You hit that nail on its proverbial headbone, kiddo.

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  27. Sorry I'm late popping in today -- Mountain time and a few distractions, but SO HAPPY to celebrate with all of you here today!

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  28. That coffee sounds really perfect for today---we have snow and wind. Also perfect for curling up and reading the new spice book. Thanks for the contest.
    suefarrell.farrell@gmail.com

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    1. All the ingredients for a great day of reading! Thanks, Sue!

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  29. This is a delightful series. The Mexican coffee should be lovely, too.

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    1. Always thyme for a good mystery -- and a fun new drink! Thanks, Nancy!

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  30. Happy Release Day! This coffee sounds amazing! Thank you for sharing your release day with us all! I would love to win this book it sounds like something I would really enjoy!
    edtercross7304@yahoo.com

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    1. Thanks, Terri! Release Day is special for any writer, but I've discovered that cozy mystery readers are the very best fans!

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  31. I have been waiting not so patiently for this book and now I have it on my Kindle. I have a few chores that have to be dome today and then I will snuggle up on this nippy day and take a trip to Seattle and the Farmer's Market. Thank you for your wonderful stories and characters. LynnB Missoula

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    1. Thanks, Lynn! If you're in Missoula, come join me tonight at Fact & Fiction at 7 pm!

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  32. That sounds like a mighty cup of coffee. Can't wait to read the book. Have a wonderful release day.

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    1. Forgot to give my email address: karolyn.yoakum@gmail.com

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    2. Coffee and dessert in one! Thanks for being part of a fun day!

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  33. Congratulations on the new book series!
    This coffee sounds just right.
    libbydodd at comcast dot net

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    1. Thanks, Libby! Always thyme for a treat -- and a good mystery!

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  34. That coffee recipe sounds fabulous. Bet the book will be too...Assault and Pepper.

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    1. Wish I could take credit for the title, but my lovely publisher came up with it. Isn't it perfect?

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  35. Congratulations on your new release Leslie! I have had my eye on this one and can't wait to read it.

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    1. Thanks, Kelly! Enjoy the trip to Seattle -- on the page!

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  36. Looks delicious, Leslie, congrats on the new release!

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  37. Congratulations on the new series release! That coffee/dessert sounds lovely just about now.
    little lamb lst at yahoo dot com

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  38. Congratulations on the new release! This series sounds like a lot of fun. rencw@verizon.net

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  39. Happy Launch Day - would love to win and thanks for the chance jody.714@hotmail.com

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  40. I am looking forward to reading the new series. Love the cover! Thanks,
    annelovell12@yahoo.com

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  41. Happy Launch Day!
    littleone AT shaw DOt ca

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  42. Pat (patdupuy@yahoo.com)March 3, 2015 at 1:13 PM

    That coffee sounds absolutely lethal! Do you have more coffee recipes in your mystery? I look forward to reading it.

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  43. I wish I could drink the coffee drink. It sounds wonderful but I'm allergic to alcohol. But not to books fortunately. I'd love to read your book.
    lkish77123 at gmail dot com

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  44. Thanks, Pat! This is the only coffee recipe in this book, although there will be a pumpkin spice recipe that's great in coffee in the next Food Lovers' Village Mystery, BUTTER OFF DEAD (coming in July).

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  45. Nothing is better than sipping a cup of Joe while ready a cozy book!

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    1. I guess we could call this one Jose -- although Mr. Right has used vanilla ice cream in his coffee in emergencies!

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  46. Happy Launch Day! Thanks for the chance. sclickner@juno.com

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  47. Congratulations on the launch of your new series. servedogmom@yahoo.com

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    1. I sense you love dogs. I hope you enjoy this one!

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  48. Congratulations on your book release day! I would love to read this book. I sure hope I'm chosen! :)

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    1. Thanks! The sun is shining, I have a new book, and I'm here with friends -- what fun!

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  49. Love Seattle and am sure I will like the books.

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    1. Isn't it a wonderful city? Thanks for stopping by!

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  50. It sounds exciting, as do all the "Kitchen" books. Can't wait to read it. Thanks for your giveaway!

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    1. Great group of writers, cooks, and friends here! Thanks for being part of it!

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  51. The coffee sounds great, especially with the weather we've been having. Congratulations on the book release. Hope I win it

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  52. I totally agree with Antonette Nyman.

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  53. Congratulations on the book release. The book is on my To Read List and the coffee recipe is going on my To Try List!

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    1. Thanks, Linda! I hope your recipes to try list is shorter than mine!

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  54. I have the book on my kindle now I just need the coffee! Sounds good!

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    1. Always thyme for coffee and a mystery! Thanks, Cece!

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  55. Friends, I'm headed to Missoula for a book talk and party, so I may not get back to you or choose the winner until Wed, but I'm awfully glad you're here -- and I'm loving picturing you, sprinkled all around the country, with Mexican coffee and ASSAULT AND PEPPER in your hands!

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  56. Would love to win this book! Sounds fun, cozy and mysterious. So does the drink!!!
    marthajane1@hotmail.com

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  57. This sounds better every time I read about it. Can't wait to actually read it! Many thanks for the opportunity to win it!

    jeaniedannheim (at) ymail (dot) com

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  58. It's snowing outside. Again! Wish I had a Mexican coffee right now to drink when I'm done shoveling. A copy of Assault and Pepper would make a gray day much better!

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    1. Cindy, I'm lifting a cup to you! You all deserve a treat after this winter!

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  59. I haven't read any of your books, would love one to pass the day away with it

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  60. Looking forward to reading your new book and trying the Mexican coffee. In fact, I plan to run to the store and get the tequila and Kahlua just so I can have it tonight. Its such a cold, windy day here. dbahn@iw.net

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  61. The Mexican coffee looks perfect for a snowy day like today! Congrats on the new release and thanks for the chance to win! I have been looking forward to it!
    JHolden955(at)gmail(dot)com

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    1. The perfect "it will be spring soon!" warm up! Thanks for stopping by!

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  62. Love Leslie Budewitz and cant wait to read this book!! Thanks for the recipe and the wonderful books that transport us each time we read any of them!!

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  63. Sounds like a fun read. Spice shops are always a great place to visit - the smell is exquisite.
    thanks faor the chance to win.

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  64. oh yummies!!!
    thank you for the recipe.........
    and the giveaway!!!

    cyn209 at juno dot com

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    1. Congratulations, Cyn! Thanks to Ruff the Cat and the random number generator, you're the winner! Email me your land mail address, please -- leslie at lesliebudewitz dot com

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  65. The coffee sounds yummy! Just picked up your new book on my kindle. Looking forward to many more.

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    1. Thanks, Susan. I hope you enjoy the trip to Seattle as much I enjoyed writing this book!

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  66. Congratulations on the new book release. Sorry but my stomach wouldn't be able to take such a strong drink. The book sounds good though, aspicy murder mystery. mmamacitagrita@gmail.com

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    1. Helen, I think you could leave out the tequila and still get a great Mexican flavor. Enjoy the book!

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  67. I nearly had this when I added Mocha Kahlua and whipped cream to my coffee. I will try this recipe. Yum! Eager to read the book with or without drink in hand. Bobbipad at gmail dot com

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    1. Oh, my, that sounds wonderful, Barbara! Thanks for sharing!

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  68. I love this recipe. I will definitely have to try.

    xzjh04@gmail.com

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  69. This sounds like a great new series.

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  70. Thanks for the giveaway! I'm looking forward to reading this!

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  71. Wow - I bet that packs a punch! Alcohol, caffeine, and sugar oh my!

    jenne.turner@unt.edu

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  72. I've had something similar but don't remember the vodka...it was definitely strong but delicious. Can't wait to read Assault & pepper!

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  73. You should try Colorado Bulldogs. Kahlua, vodka, ice cream & coca cola. Great in the summer.

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    1. Interesting combo, Linda -- sounds like it would be great fun on a hot day near water!

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  74. This sounds like a great book~thank you for the chance to win a copy. I'd love to drink the coffee as I read it! Thank you for sharing your recipe~I love the title and the cover!
    woodrumbetty@gmail.com

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