1920s Party with guest, SR Mallery — All aboard!

Posted on by Teagan Riordain Geneviene

Thursday, June 8, 2023

Image by Teagan

Update, Saturday June 10, 2023:  What ho, everyone! You’re all swell to come to this shindig.  As anyone looking for the latest episode of Atonement in Zugzwang can see, I’m running late with the new installment, but it’s on the way.

Special thanks to Robbie Cheadle for helping to keep the party going.  Don’t miss her Amazon Author Page.     Now, back to the party.  You’re all the bee’s knees!

Welcome, one and all!  I haven’t done a blog party like this in ages.  What better reason than the #NewBook release of a friend?  So, take the limits off your imagination and come to this crazy shindig.  Join my guest of honor, S. R. (Sarah) Mallery and me as we travel in a diesel-punk train and party across the Blog-verse.  

How?  You join the party by leaving a comment. Be ready to give the bartender your favorite 1920s drink and food order. Or tell me about it and about what you’re wearing — all in a comment.

Also, please include a link to your book, blog, or even a charitable cause.  Are you ready?
 
All aboard!

Welcome to Teagan’s Speakeasy
for a 1920s Party

The ground started to shake. I heard the loud rumble of a train, despite the fact that I was miles away from any railroad tracks.  Red and blue lights blazed from around the edges of my front door.  I heard the screech of the train stopping.

Then to my befuddlement, the diesel-punk train left after barely a second’s stop.  My doorbell rang.  I was expecting Valentino — after all, it was his train.  Rising, I straightened the skirt of my flapper glad rags and went to my door.  My bewildered state increased as I looked up… and up, not at the enigmatic sheik, but at the Story Reading Ape.

Chris:  Did I get banana on my tuxedo?  I know you were expecting Valentino.  I hope you aren’t too disappointed.  By the way, I like your blue sequins and rose-gold fringe outfit.

Teagan:  Come on inside, dear Ape.  Not at all.  You’re one of my oldest and best friends from the Blog-verse.  Besides, Valentino is too… complicated and brooding.  But I can’t complain — I wrote him that way.

Chris:  Teagan, you’re still a Sheba.  All is well, Valentino’s gone to pick up S. R. Mallery.  Her Lozano Boys have gotten protective of her.  So, Olga Núñez Miret went along, incase the situation needed to be smoothed over.  They’ll be along shortly.  With her Escaping Psychiatry Series, anyone can see that Olga would know how to handle things.

Teagan:  Did they take Lulu with them too?

Valentino and Lulu dance with angel-bots, by Teagan R. Geneviene
Lulu and angel-bots, by Teagan R. Geneviene

Chris:  No.  Dan Antion’s bartender, Skippy got wind of this shindig, and Lulu took Valentino’s souped-up Rolls-Royce to Connecticut to let him down easy.  Personally, I think Skippy’s a bit of a Knucklehead, but that would be a different book.

The glow of red and blue lights flashed around my door again.  I called out for Valentino to come on inside.  Haloed in the colors, a man as handsome as the Sheik of Araby opened the door.  I shook my head.  He didn’t realize what a heartbreaker he was.

Valentino:  Are you ready, Teagan?  Marvelous.  Sarah and Olga are sampling lemon bars in the dining car.  D. L. Finn is there too.  Since we were in California, I swung upstate to give her a lift.  Before the train takes us into the Blog-verse we can zip over to Texas for John W. Howell.

Chris:  The angel-bots have been helping authors and bloggers from all around the world get to the party.  Also, I spoke to Fraggle a moment ago and she’s already there and taking photographs.  Everyone is enjoying the magic of the Blog-verse.

A window on the train slid open.  Sarah and Denise stuck their heads out and called for us to get a wiggle on.  As I locked my front door, I noticed that the entire neighborhood was watching… especially the creep who stares every time I go outside.  The Great Ape gallantly tucked my hand into his arm.  Looking at the creep, he smiled a toothy grin that caused the perv to yelp and run back into his house.  Valentino took my other arm and we made a grand exit when the diesel-punk train left.

Sarah:  Teagan, this is so exciting.  You know I love the Roaring Twenties, but I’ve never been to a 1920s party quite like this one.  Valentino has a communication screen showing our friends already at the shindig, cutting a rug, sampling jag juice and having a swell time.

Olga:  I just spoke with Roberta Eaton Cheadle and she is on her way from South Africa.  Some of her fondant creatures have come with her.  They became fast friends with the angel-bots.

Teagan:  That should be fun. I love Robbie’s fondants.  Sarah, you’re in for a treat.  I’m glad the party is already going, and in a few different places.  Let’s bring it all together now.  Valentino, can I do the honors?  Thanks.

All aboard!

Leaving a whirling tunnel of dust in its wake, the diesel-punk train roared away.  While I felt no movement, outside the windows, the landscape tilted and bent as it rocketed into the Blog-verse.  Soon the cheerful but soothing strains of Cuban Moon filled the air as the orthopneic Victrola communication system broadcast the music.  I settled down to talk to my guest of honor while we traveled.

Teagan:  Sarah, I hope you didn’t have any trouble getting here.  Congratulations on your latest book.  You look great.  I recognize your short jacket and vivid blue flapper dress from your new book, All Those Masks.  I’m excited to know that is only book-1 in the Lozano Boys series.  I’m looking forward to more.

We both seem to keep returning to the Roaring Twenties.  What draws you to that era?

Sarah:  Applesauce, Teagan.  There’s a whole list of things that I particularly like about the 1920s.  The flapper dresses, with their lose flow and no corsets anymore!  As you well know, from your Speak Flapper dictionary, all those wonderful slang expressions.  The vote for women solidified in the US (finally).  Also, female police women slowly happening… The mocktails! And the hidden speakeasies!  There’s so much to love.

What about you, Teagan?  What’s the attraction for you?

Teagan:  You also include some interesting facts and details about the Hollywood film industry of the era in your books.  I enjoyed those tidbits.  But other things that draw me to the 1920s… I like the emerging technologies and the different expectations people back then had for the future — different from how technology has progressed and turned out.  On the other hand, I adore the clothes.  I’ve always been interested in fashion design and especially in fabrics.

Sarah:  I agree about the clothes.  Everyone here is dressed the part.  I see that Resa McConaghy and Kerfe are helping guests who didn’t already have a costume.  They’re so talented.

Who is that woman in the stunning 1920s vintage saree?  I love the simple elegance of the black velvet ribbon edging the white Georgette and Chinese silk.  I see that Resa and Kerfe admire the fabric too.

Valentino:  That’s the marvelous Kamal. We made a special trip to India to pick her up.  Teagan said I could benefit from her positivity.  I’m not sure what she meant by that.

Teagan:  Ahem… Umm, back to the technology.  Valentino has outfitted this diesel-punk train with the most amazing things.

Sarah:  Yes, I’m amazed by all the Victorian and 1920s inventions on this train.  Liz Gauffreau and Diana Peach are trying their hands – literally, at the theremin.  Earlier I saw Jaye Mare and Anita Dawes investigating the orthopneic Victrola.

Teagan:  By the way, if you come across the Pictura metafizică, it’s best not to touch that one.

Valentino:  Yes, that’s a good warning.  Ladies, if you’ll excuse me… I see Dan Antion.  I’ve wanted to discuss the things he has invented to help him singlehandedly work on heavy things in his woodworking and “Tool Man” projects.

As Valentino strolled away, the music upped tempo to the fusion of jazz and ragtime better known as the Charleston.  Sarah headed to the dancefloor but stopped to mingle with Olga.  I saw Robbie Cheadle’s fondant creations dancing on a table an angel-bot setup for them, to make sure they didn’t get under the feet of human dancers.  G. P. Cox was dancing the Lindy Hop with Pat and Jennie.

Image courtesy Chris Graham

An angel-bot approached.  He did a graceful twirl that did not even slosh a drop of liquid from the glass that sat on his tray.  He stopped beside me and with a little bow, offered me a martini.

Dynamite:  I already know we won’t be able to convince you to dance Miss Teagan.  So how about some giggle water?  (He paused as if unsure he should say what was on his mind.)  In Hullaba Lulu, you had us angel-bots dub Lulu “Giver of Names,” but that title belongs to you.  Wicky, Wacky, and Woo, and all the other bots wanted me to thank you on their behalf.

Teagan:  You’re all welcome, Dynamite.  For me, names are an important thing, but also something I enjoy.  I see you have a copy of S. R. Mallery’s book under your tray.  She’ll be flattered that the angel-bots are reading it.  Cheers!

The angel-bots are taking great care of the guests, serving all sorts of 1920s foods and beverages.  Lemons and pineapples abound, but the train’s automat can produce anything.  So, enjoy!

♦ ♦ ♦

Remember, everyone — join this party by leaving a comment.  Be sure to include a link to your blog, book, or even a favorite charity in the comment.  Thanks for coming to this shindig.  You’re the cat’s pajamas!

Image courtesy Chris Graham

♦ ♦ ♦

About S. R. Mallery’s New Release

The Lozano Boys, Book 1: All Those Masks

Link:  https://tinyurl.com/hr9ehdby  

In 1927, Private Eye Frank Lozano is on a mission. After he left the corrupt Los Angeles police department, he had formed his own detective agency, and with his two fellow sleuths, a grammar-correcting secretary, and a beautiful, yet quirky researcher who makes his heartbeats soar, he looks forward to handling cases the way he thinks is best.

Then he encounters true evil. A murder that is most probably linked to either to the Klan––still alive in Southern California––or Chicago mobsters is bad enough. But when his secretary’s husband is wrongfully arrested and put in jail for the slaying, Frank and his cohorts go on the warpath to put the true killer in jail.

Much like this series’ prequel, Trouble In Glamour Town, film stars float in and out. Here, we are introduced to the famous film idol, Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle, wrongfully accused of rape and murder, as well as Harold Lloyd, and Charlie Chaplin. Also surrounding the case are two of the very first police women in the country: Los Angeles’ Alice Stebbins Wells and New York’s undercover detective, Mary Sullivan.

Will this eclectic team find out who the true killer is before he––or she––lands another victim?

♦ ♦ ♦

Here are Sarah’s links

BLOG: https:www.srmallery.blog

NEWSLETTER: https://www.subscribepage.com/b6z2q6

AMAZON: http://amzn.to/1r3GUsZ 

BOOKBUB: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/s-r-mallery

AUDIBLE: https://adbl.co/2E1kMvC

PINTEREST: https://www.pinterest.com/sarahmallery1/

TWITTER: @SarahMallery1 

Facebook http://on.fb.me/1SnmIhs

♦ ♦ ♦

Now for that obligatory shameless self-promotion…  

Hullaba Lulu, a Diesel-punk Adventure

Hullaba Lulu cover by Teagan R. Geneviene

Kindle:  relinks.me/B08JKP1RS4

Paperback:  relinks.me/B08JDYXPZM

This is a work of fiction.  Characters, names, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, locales, or events is entirely coincidental.

Copyright © 2023 by Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene

All rights reserved. 

No part of this work may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission.  Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author’s rights.

All images are either the property of the author or provided by free sources, unless stated otherwise.

 

…

 

133 thoughts on “1920s Party with guest, SR Mallery — All aboard!”

  1. Pingback: Weekend Serial — Atonement in Zugzwang: Episode 14 — & Recipe from Robbie Cheadle – Teagan's Books
  2. Pingback: Roberta Writes – Pretty in Pink, Teagan’s ready designed book covers and more #SundayStills #bookcovers #fondantart

  5. I see the party is well under way. I was in the speakeasy sampling a Bee’s Knees (aptly named!) and heard the toe-tapping Charleston happening out here- so fun!
    I love Sarah’s books. The Hollywood references she includes add an interesting element to her mysteries. I’m looking forward to reading her new release- congrats, Sarah!
    Great party, Teagan 🙂

    Liked by 5 people

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    3. Hot digity dog — you made it, Resa! Thanks so much for bringing your sketch. Your gown is pos-i-lutely orchid! There are several people wearing the longer length. I love the flowy chiffon and those long shimmering beads. And the headband is to die for. You do such gorgeous work. TH\he party is still going. Can I get you a mocktail? Or maybe some icebox cake? Thanks for coming. You’re the cat’s pajamas!

      Liked by 1 person

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      1. Oh goody! The full length wasn’t so popular in the 20’s, but was still used for more formal events.
        I figured this is a special party, so no faux pas!
        Congrats to SR Mallery, and all of your friends who adore you!
        Meow! And here’s some bees for your knees! 🐝🐝🐝

        Liked by 1 person

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  8. I’ve had a bit too much giggle water, I’m afraid, so Charlie the Chimp from Telling Sonny will attend the remainder of the shindig in my stead. Charlie is nattily attired in a chimp version of a navy blue blazer, shirt and tie, and white flannel trousers, with a Panama hat on his head and some version of two-toned spectators on his long, flat chimpanzee feet. Should the festivities lag, Charlie will show off his hoofer-cred by dancing the Charleston and the Black Bottom. https://books2read.com/TellingSonny

    Liked by 3 people

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  9. You always host the best parties, Teagan! This gave me the opportunity to bust out my purple (favorite color) flapper dress. I’ll join in on the shrimp cocktail and have some giggle water to go with it.

    Liked by 4 people

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  10. Fantastic party, Teagan 🙂 I’m in the dining car enoying an Old Fashion and the best Shrimp Cocktail I’ve ever had! Then I plan to head to the dance floor, I have been practicing my Charleston moves. After I enjoy some mingling, I will be heading home with a new book to enjoy. Thank you for your hospitality.

    Liked by 5 people

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    2. That’s swell, John. You certainly are looking *darb*. All the flappers missed a beat in dancing because they were admiring you.
      As you know that martini is my favorite cocktail. Valentino’s train is stocked with the best gin. He’s brought in my favorite gin, all the way from Japan. (I’m missing my Roku, since my usual vendor isn’t responding. I found it elsewhere, but at double price…)
      The angel-bots have just brought out lunch. I see chicken à la Tyrolienne, potatoes au gratin, and for dessert a pommes glacé. Thanks for joining the party. You’re the cat’s whiskers!
      https://menus.nypl.org/menus/31644

      Liked by 4 people

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      1. Your menu sounds delightful. I remember you like your marts dirty so let’s have another. A great party for sure. I will always remember the Waldorf. Used to have many meetings there and have memories of sitting in the lobby and people watching.

        Liked by 3 people

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  13. Hello Teagan, what a simply marvelous party and I am so delighted to see so many of my wonderful friends here. I have brought some stuffed mushrooms and mini salmon and hake fish cakes for the crowd. I am wearing a black fringe dress with a feathered hairband and high heeled shoes. You can find the recipe for the fishcakes here: https://robbiesinspiration.wordpress.com/2022/03/07/robbies-inspiration-recipes-from-around-the-world-salmon-and-hake-fishcakes/

    Liked by 4 people

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      1. I have tried liking your comments but either WP or my browser will not let me. Wish you could come too. What part of CA? I have live in both San Diego (and vacinity) and Monterey.

        Liked by 2 people

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  15. What a fun party! I’m enjoying playing the theremin with Liz, though I’m sure you’re all covering your ears by now. Thanks so much for the invite, Teagan, and what a wonderful gala to kick off Sarah’s new book, which sounds thrilling, by the way. I’ll have a strawberry rhubarb mojito (my new summer favorite) and half a dozen oyster shooters, then you can pour me back into my blog: https://mythsofthemirror.com.

    Thanks so much for the mention. I’m delighted to be included among your stellar guests, Teagan. And huge congrats to Sarah. I’ll stop by later for a second round of drinks. Hugs!

    Liked by 4 people

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        1. Absolutely. When she mentionend she was goinng to create something a little different I had NO IDEA how fabulous (and hard-work-with-major-creatitivity) this would be! Much thanks, Teagan! oxoxox

          Liked by 3 people

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  17. This is the bee’s knees, Teagan. Pleased to dance with GP and Jenny. Glad I rouged my knees since my flapper skirt keeps flipping from the kicks and flicks. I need to take a short break and enjoy something chilled like gin. Maybe sit out the Charleston while I visit some blogs or chat up an angel bot.

    Liked by 4 people

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  18. Such fun at this party, Teagan. I guess I’ll have a disappointed bartender to deal with on Saturday. Oh well, it’s always something with Skippy. I’ll have a glass of that near-beer they’re allowed to sell, and maybe back that up with a shot of tequila. I heard Valentino say he picked some up on the swing past Mexico on his way from California. I’ll have fun here tonight, but I’ll need some hair of the dog in the morning. That’s OK, I just added “The Lozano Boys Book 1: All Those Masks” to my Kindle before heading back here. I’ll settle in and read that. Coppers and movie stars – you can’t go wrong. I don’t mind the mob guys, they came in handy in my series – https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BC23MDLV – I have to go find Lulu. I need to know how she left things with Skippy. Have a good time – you certainly have a great crowd! Best of luck to Sarah and everyone who joins in the fun.

    Liked by 5 people

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    2. Hey, Dan. Glad you could make it. Oh… I see that I was vague about Lulu and Skippy. She can be a dumb Dora when it comes to knowing when somebody is interested in her. She meant to let Skippy down easy, because he couldn’t be at this party. Although, she was expecting a big trip to the North Pole last Christmas, and that didn’t get finished. So those two just might head up there with Rudolph (not Valentino) to see how things are going.
      Thanks for bringing your link. You’re the berries!

      Liked by 3 people

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  19. What a fantastic party! I see we’re in good hands when it comes to drinks and dresses (although I brought a pink feather boa just in case), and I’m happy to try a few of the dances as well. Congratulations to Sarah! Her new book sounds like a must-read and I’m off to check it out as well. Keep the music going!

    Liked by 5 people

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    2. I’m so glad you are enjoying it, Olga. You look pos-i-lutely divine in that pink boa. The orthophonic Victrola never runs out of music. It just switched to Crazy Blues sung by Mamie Smith, a slower tempo to let the dancers rest a bit.

      Thanks for leaving a comment. You’re the kitten’s ankles!

      Liked by 3 people

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    3. My pleasure, Sarah. It’s such a great story (stories, including the prequel). This party will go on for days (longer if I can’t focus to write my serial post for this weekend). How about some 1920s breakfast. Here’s a link to some menus.

      1920 Breakfast Menus


      Maybe some grapes, Vienna rolls, and coffee? Or are you hungry? They just brought out some pineapple pizza. You’re the cat’s meow!

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply

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