Here’s THE HAIR again in case you missed it yesterday (more pics in the entry below this one). For a PAX t-shirt, drawn from the correct answers: comment #19–Amber! (Email me!) And, big apologies to StephT who I first posted as the winner. My daughter first picked comment #20 and I am so tired that I looked in the HAIR entry for #20! Ack!!! (I forgot to even look for the correct answers!) When I realized my mistake, I checked the correct entry, The Next Nora entry, for comment #20 but unfortunately, comment #20 didn’t have the correct answers. I asked her to pick again and she picked #19–which did have the correct answers. Whew. I should not be allowed to do anything before my first cup of coffee. :no:
Today, the Grand Finale of the Extravasuzannza celebrating the release of The Beast Within! But first…..
Answers to The Next Nora contest: 1, 2, and 4.
1) I grew up in the same Washington,D.C. suburb as Nora.
Yes! We both grew up in Silver Spring, Maryland. If I’d known she was going to be NORA, I so would have been over at her house. Well, who knows, maybe I trick-or-treated at her house! We might have even gone to the same schools. But she would have been more like my babysitter than my best friend because I’m younger than her.2) We are both Mary Stewart fans.
Yes! I love Mary Stewart. I was also a big early fan of Phyllis Whitney and Victoria Holt. Yum.3) The day I mailed my last book, one of my dogs pooped in the perfect shape of a Rita Award.
Unfortunately, no. But I am watching my dogs’ poop daily for signs. I mean, really, some people look at statues of saints for signs. Me, I watch the poop.4) We both took a little over a year to sell our first book after we started writing.
Yes! This is true, too! Now, with all this in common with The Nora, can’t you see the inevitability of my future superstardom????5) I was in the same elevator with Nora at the Dallas RWA conference and breathed her air.
Are you kidding? If I had ever been in the same elevator with Nora, we would still be there. I’d have hit the Stop button and held her hostage until she told me The Secret. Then I’d sell a can of her air on eBay. I heard someone did that with Brad Pitt’s air.
Now, before diving into the contest, a few bits of business.
First, if you want to know when my books are going to be hitting the shelves, or when I’m holding special contests, please sign up for my newsletter. Fill in the Newsletter fields in the sidebar to the left or go here and scroll down to the Newsletter form. However, I have spontaneous contests in my blog on an erratic basis and they are always unannounced, so check my blog regularly for those.
Second, I want to shout out a special thank-you to the readers who’ve come to my blog in the last two weeks. Please don’t go away or stop commenting just because my Extravasuzannza is over. I love to hear from you! Your comments make my day and each and everyone of you are very special to me. Thank you for being here!
And another big thank-you to all of you who created buzz about The Beast Within by posting about the book on your own blogs. (I love you!) The book is doing well and I’m excited about it! If you haven’t bought the book yet, please buy it! It’s still in stores and available on Amazon and B&N! I love my PAX superagents and I’m hoping to write more PAX stories. I need your support so that my publisher knows readers want more PAX!
Also, if you’ve read The Beast Within, please consider writing a review on Amazon. Anyone can write a review on Amazon and my editor will see it. You have no idea how much it helps an author if you write a review on Amazon. ::begging:: Go here to write a review!
Now for the Grand Finale! I’m going to make this simple!
Today’s Grand Finale prizes: one PAX t-shirt, one PAX mug, and ten autographed copies of my romantic comedy, Marrying Mariah (see Books page for description). Winners chosen by random comment number drawing.
How to play–hey, just tell me if you had a good time the past two weeks. 😆 (Clearly, I’m too tired to think this morning.) Winners will be announced in tomorrow’s blog.
I have a booksigning tomorrow somewhere in the Raleigh area, autographing The Beast Within, but I can’t remember where or at what time. I’m pretty sure I need to figure this out soon……or get more organized or something…..
Teresa says:
What a fun idea! Thank you for having this great activity for everyone to follow along with.
On July 8, 2005 at 7:49 am
TeresaH says:
I have had a blast with your blog the last few weeks…and even longer! I’d like to add my thanks for all the fun.:thumbsup:
On July 8, 2005 at 7:55 am
Amber Smith says:
Thank you so much for holding these fun contests. I plan to come back even after its over. I can’t wait to get my books in the mail!
On July 8, 2005 at 7:58 am
Amber Smith says:
Oh I forgot to mention that I love the new hair do. I love the curly look and I’m glad you stuck with it being long.
On July 8, 2005 at 8:01 am
Amelia says:
Suzanne!
This has been such a fun time, and I enjoyed checking your blog every morning to see what entertaining game or delightful question you had posted. Then I kept checking back during the day to see all the responses.
Your blog gave me something to look forward to every morning, and I plan to keep checking back often!
Already counting the months until Third Sight is released. Will be glad when it is just days!
On July 8, 2005 at 8:02 am
Amelia says:
Also want to thank you for being so generous with your book giveaways and for the awesome prizes in the contests. I certainly appreciate getting to add more of your wonderful books to my collection!
On July 8, 2005 at 8:06 am
Michelle says:
Contests and giveaways are always fun. I really enjoyed reading The Beast Within. Can’t wait to try the other PAX books! 🙂
On July 8, 2005 at 8:06 am
Melissa says:
Suz! I’ve had a wonderful time this past two weeks. Not only did I move, but I got to enter your contest most of the time. :thumbsup: Thanks again for the copy of “The Honeymoon Man”. Hasn’t arrived yet but I’ll let you know when it does. I have “Marrying Mariah”. 😀
:hissyfit: I want a PAX T-shirt!
On July 8, 2005 at 8:12 am
Shari C. says:
Love the long look! Thanks for the fun and wonderful contests and prizes. Had a GREAT time and plan to keep checking your blog.
Enjoyed ‘The Beast Within’ and looking forward to more PAX books.
On July 8, 2005 at 8:16 am
Crystal says:
Your hair looks great!
It has been fun the last two weeks! I love reading everyone’s comments.
On July 8, 2005 at 8:23 am
Mary says:
Have a great book signing. Those are so much fun.:bananadance:
On July 8, 2005 at 8:24 am
Stacey115 says:
The last few weeks have been great. I read your blog everyday though I rarely post. I could not help myself a few times this week. 😉
Keep up the great work, and I will be back come Monday to read more. 🙂
On July 8, 2005 at 8:37 am
Carol says:
I love your hair! You made a good choice. It’s so important to find a good hairdresser. She is a keeper :yes:
I’ve had a great time playing the games and entering your contests. I will continue to stop by every morning to see what new and interesting things are going on in your life! 🙂
On July 8, 2005 at 8:38 am
Carol says:
Hi Mel,
LOL, I hope you get your t-shirt. I can’t wait for mine to arrive!
On July 8, 2005 at 8:41 am
trish says:
Suzanne, I check your blog regularly anyway, but kept coming back more often these past couple of weeks in the hopes of winning something.:lol:
I think you did the right thing, keeping your hair long. ‘Course, that’s probably because I’ve cut mine short in the past and wound up looking like a poodle. It’s not a mistake I’ll make again.
Good luck with your book signing.
On July 8, 2005 at 8:45 am
Estella Kissell says:
I have had a great time on your blog these past two weeks. Its interesting to see what others write.
Your hair looks great long and curly!
On July 8, 2005 at 9:10 am
Beth C says:
Just chiming in to comment on your hair, Suzanne. LOVE IT! Truly. (From someone who changes her style and color as often as her underwear. Okay. Exagerrating, but not much) 😯
On July 8, 2005 at 9:37 am
Toni Anderson says:
Suzanne-had great fun the last few weeks.
I want to get the BEAST in Reno… I’m holding out for a reason 😉
Keep up the good blogging :wave:
On July 8, 2005 at 9:45 am
Suzanne says:
Also wanted to add–ALL the autographed books that were won so far have been put in the mail, so expect to be seeing those very soon! All the PAX gear has been shipped except for one tote bag because they are temporarily out of stock at CafePress (which is the online company that prints and ships my products), but I’m watching the situation and will get that shipped asap (if it doesn’t get back in stock soon, the tote bag winner has the option of switching to a t-shirt or mug). So, all things are on the way! Today’s prizes will go out asap this weekend, too! :yes:
On July 8, 2005 at 9:47 am
Suanne says:
I joined the party a little late, but enjoyed the short time I was here. Even though Texas would have welcomed you back with open arms, I am glad you found a terrific hairdresser in your area. Thank you for sponsoring these contests! It is very generous of you!!! Wishing you continued success!
On July 8, 2005 at 9:48 am
Tori says:
This has been great fun, Suzanne! :bananadance:
On July 8, 2005 at 10:05 am
Peggie says:
Suzanne I read your Blog almost daily and the Extravasuzannza brought me out and encouraged me to comment. It was great fun and I enjoyed reading everyones comments. The merman story in three words and the pet stories were my favorites.
Thank you for all the fun and for visiting me in turn. What a thrill!
Still looking for beast and can’t wait to read it!
On July 8, 2005 at 10:09 am
Juanita Stender says:
Thanks Suzanne. It has been a blast. What a great way to start the day. You rule!:yes: Can’t wait to see you in Reno!
On July 8, 2005 at 10:34 am
Laurie says:
Hi Suzanne,
I always enjoy starting my day with a trip to your blog. Thanks for your generosity!! Can’t believe how quickly the last two weeks have gone by! Best of luck with your writing!
On July 8, 2005 at 10:45 am
Kelly says:
Suzanne, you are an expert at blog promo! Great job! And just so you know, I’m taking notes for that one day whenever I sell. :yes:
ps.The hair is very hip!
On July 8, 2005 at 10:50 am
Robyn says:
Suzanne, your blog is my first stop each morning; I truly enjoy your contests, comments and everyone’s entries. Thanks for my wins.:wave:
On July 8, 2005 at 11:04 am
Lynn Daniels says:
Suzanne, your blog is always entertaining, but has been moreso these past couple of weeks with your contests. And even though Extravasuzannza is over, I’ll continue to come by and see what’s going on in your world.
On July 8, 2005 at 11:11 am
Carol says:
Oh, I forgot.
Congratulations Amber! :bananadance:
On July 8, 2005 at 11:26 am
Jill says:
I’d have had more fun if I’d won. 😆
On July 8, 2005 at 11:33 am
Alyssa says:
It’s been a lot of fun. I visit your blog daily already, but I’ve definitely enjoyed the games and things. They are a fun way to break up the day.
😀
Alyssa
On July 8, 2005 at 12:43 pm
Maureen says:
Your hair looks marvelous. It’s been fun visiting with you these last days and your contests have been so imaginative.
On July 8, 2005 at 2:00 pm
Marcy says:
I’ve had fun. Suzanne. :thumbsup:
Posting here has gotten me over some of my shyness at commenting in blogs. LOL And I’m planning to buy your book today! :bananadance:
Hugs,
Marcy – who signed up for your newsleter today as well.
On July 8, 2005 at 2:03 pm
Saundra M says:
I have had such a good time! I will now visit the blog everyday, and thank you for being so much fun. :bananadance:
On July 8, 2005 at 2:26 pm
Christyne says:
Ya know, I always considered myself a strong person…both mentally and physically (okay, so not so physcially anymore) but I knew that when I made a decision I would stick to it!:yes:
That is until two weeks ago.
I told myself I could wait.
I told myself that Reno was less than a month away.
I told myself that getting a copy of THE BEAST WITHIN with Suzanne’s authograph was way better than just buying a copy in the store.
I told myself that I didn’t have time to write…I’ve got a book to finish gosh darn it!
I can visit her blog every day and read all those great reviews and not be tempted.
Nope.
Not me.
I was going to strong.
I was going to dedicated.
I was going to iron-willed.
:no:I was wrong.
Last night my DD dragged me to Wally World for even more beads (don’t ask) and as I was walking in the door I told myself…
“Don’t do it, don’t go by the book section, don’t do it…”
But I did.
And there was ONE copy left…
I caved.
Whew! THE BEAST WITHIN is mine! :relieved: I feel better now! 😆
Christyne :bananadance:
On July 8, 2005 at 2:28 pm
Cheryl S. says:
The past 2 weeks have been a blast Suzanne! But then I always have fun when I come to your blog. You are a very generous person and I love your sense of humor! Thanks bunches. :bananadance:
On July 8, 2005 at 2:28 pm
Christyne says:
Gee, after all that I fogot to add that I got my book Suzanne…thanks!
Love the hair!
Christyne :bananadance:
On July 8, 2005 at 2:29 pm
Amy K. says:
I’ve had a FAB-U-LOUS two weeks. :bananadance: Even the days when I didn’t post, I read. Some days my brain just ain’t all there. Thanks for the fun contests and giveaways!
On July 8, 2005 at 2:31 pm
Nicole says:
I’ve had a great time these past few weeks! I may not have posted every day, but I always checked in and read. After all, it’s one of my favorite author blogs.
On July 8, 2005 at 2:34 pm
BJ Deese says:
Yes, I’ve had a wonderful time with your blog! Thanks for so many wonderful contests and laughs.
On July 8, 2005 at 2:40 pm
Lis says:
Count me in as someone else who makes your blog her first online stop every day :wave:
The last two weeks on here have been so fun. Off to finish The Beast :thumbsup:
On July 8, 2005 at 3:12 pm
TeresaH says:
I also forgot to congratulate Amber…congrats Amber!
It’s hard to believe that the 2 weeks is nearly up!!! This blog is the most fun! I love to read what you write, and all the readers write too.
Oh, and before I forget again, your hair looks great! (and reminds me it’s past time for my hair to get done…:oops:)
On July 8, 2005 at 4:28 pm
Janet says:
I have had such a great time visiting your blog every day. I especially liked the three word story line. I kept coming back to read the continuation. It was hilarious and I had never seen it before. Thanks Suzanne for keeping us entertained and for providing us with such good reads.
On July 8, 2005 at 4:45 pm
Suzanne says:
Christyne, I’m so glad you caved. 🙂 Hey, if you still want it autographed, bring it to Reno! I’d be happy to sign it for you. You’re only allowed to bring five books INTO the signing that you already have, so if you’re already bringing others, just grab me some other time during the conference and I’ll sign it for you!
And thank you so much to everyone for being here and especially for all the support for my book! I love you guys!
On July 8, 2005 at 6:31 pm
Kim says:
Each time I read your blog it puts a smile on my face. You have such a great sense of humor. The games have been a lot of fun and you are more than generous.
On July 8, 2005 at 7:09 pm
Teresa says:
Suzanne, I love your blog and the past two weeks have been super fun. . . but you’re blog is always super fun! :bananadance: You know I’ll be back!
On July 8, 2005 at 7:38 pm
kacey says:
Hey, it’s been a great two weeks! I loved coming back each day to see what you’d dreamed up for that day! Love the contests and the pictures.
Great hair. A woman should always love her hair. :thumbsup:
On July 8, 2005 at 8:17 pm
Gina says:
I always love reading your blog, and the last two weeks have been great.
On July 8, 2005 at 8:17 pm
Jeanette Jackson says:
This has been a fun two weeks–I will make sure to check in from time to time.
Thanks again
On July 8, 2005 at 9:32 pm
ruby55 says:
I’ve loved the last few weeks of your blog; but then, I’ve loved it ever since I started coming to read it since sometime in May. You have such a refreshing way about you. Your blog is never dull and often it’s LOL funny. No wonder you’re a good writer and are bound to get even better.
I’ve progressed some more in THE BEAST… but I’m not quite finished. It’s the morning after in the hotel and I think things are heating up both between them and with PAX and the traitor. I’ll finish tonight or early morning sometime. I’ll let you know the next time I look at the blog which should be tomorrow or whenever you’re scheduling the next edition.
On July 8, 2005 at 10:11 pm
Elizabeth says:
I had so much fun over the last two weeks. You really had a nice variety of things to read about and comment on!
On July 8, 2005 at 11:00 pm
Crystal* says:
I LOVE hanging out with you on your blog. FUN!
And…I bought The Beast Within today. WOOHOO! I’m so excited! I’ll gush accordingly on my blog when I finish.
Had a great time. :yes::yes::yes:
Grins*
On July 8, 2005 at 11:10 pm
Amber Smith says:
Thanks again for all the wonderful prizes that you have given away!
On July 8, 2005 at 11:58 pm
Julia says:
These two weeks have been great, but this is not news, since your blog is usually a fun place. You always have great contests, not only for the prizes, but they are a lot of fun, and you always have interesting and fun questions and games.:grin:
On July 9, 2005 at 12:02 am
Marcy says:
I bought THE BEAST today!! WhooHoo!! :bananadance:
Hugs,
Marcy
On July 9, 2005 at 12:07 am
Danica says:
Love the hair! Had tons of fun, but you know I always do. And I’m here, party or no party, contest or no contest. I’m like a fungus… ain’t no prying me out of nowhere I want to be. 🙂
On July 9, 2005 at 2:16 am
TeresaH says:
Yay! They finally got THE BEAST in so I could buy it! Now, when I finish Cole’s story I’ll read it…:bananadance:
On July 9, 2005 at 4:27 am
Suzanne says:
Sigrun, I’m glad you’re enjoying Beast!
Teresa and Marcy, thank you for buying my book!!! (Marcy, I’m so glad you delurked on my blog!)
On July 9, 2005 at 6:20 am
Sonja (from HCRW) says:
Picked up TBW at Wal-Mart the other day and will post a review soon!
On July 11, 2005 at 10:44 am