Paige attends a dinner party…

Russian Czar Drink Recipe    Bartlett’s Rule

1 dash  orange Bitters
1 oz.  Grand Marnier
0.5 oz.  Lime juice
1 oz.  Vodka
3 oz.  Dry Sparkling White Wine

Directions:          Fill a mixing glass with ice and add all ingredients except wine. Shake and strain into a glass. Top with wine.

(blurb)

Bartlett’s Rule shares the story of Lon and Paige’s love affair; a romance filled with hardship, emotion, danger and triumph. Falling in love was never the challenge; being there for each other, knowing just what to say and making it work is the real test. Paige and Lon are real; they are human, they cry and they laugh. Paige has to learn to trust. Lon has to learn to be patient.

(excerpt)

Paige took a step back knowing that this pushy individual was not the type she wanted to be alone with. In the penthouse she had plenty of company to keep things safe and she could remain polite. Alone, she wasn’t sure what would happen. “That’s very sweet of you but unnecessary. I’ve already called for a cab.” She was very happy that she had kept her promise to Lon.

“You’re not going to even give me a chance, are you, Miss Andrews?”

“You are a lovely gentleman and I’m really flattered,” she answered tactfully. “But I am also in a rather serious relationship…”

“Oh? Why are you here alone then?” He smiled amiably.

Paige was pleased that he didn’t sound antagonistic. “He is out of town making some appearances for a book he’s written.”

“So you’re seeing a struggling writer?” He didn’t sound impressed. “I’m sure that’s very bohemian. That can’t be too much fun. Can’t I even tempt you to try a lifestyle of fancy yacht races and fashionable nightspots?”

She smiled comfortably. “Nope. Besides, I enjoy his lifestyle very much. I’m certainly not deprived of any comforts.”

He laughed cynically. “What is your boyfriend’s name? Maybe I’ve heard of him.”

“Lon Bartlett.”

He looked surprised. “The Lon Bartlett? Of Bartlett’s Rule?”

She nodded.

He whistled through his teeth. “I’m impressed.” Taking a few steps back, he looked her over. “I’ve read a lot of his work. So you’re the lady that’s cut him down to size.”

“You can’t cut a man like Lon down.” She sounded a little defensive.

“No one ever thought Bartlett would stop playing the field. That’s all I meant.” He shook his head. “That Bartlett is one lucky bastard …”