Here’s how they make a spicy grapefruit margarita at Colonel Teddy’s Tiki Bar on Siesta Key:
Ingredients:
1 fresh habanero pepper, halved
3 ounces Pueblo Viejo Tequila
1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
1 ounce freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
1 ounce simple syrup
salt
Directions:
In a cocktail shaker, steep one half of the habanero pepper in the Tequila for half an hour (or more if you want to abuse your taste buds). Then remove the pepper and add the lime juice, the grapefruit juice, and the simple syrup. Cover and shake for no less than thirty seconds, pour into a Mason jar with a salted rim, and serve immediately with a thin wedge of lime.
And now, here’s how to drink a spicy grapefruit margarita at Colonel Teddy’s Tiki Bar on Siesta Key:
As slowly as possible, preferably with your toes in the sand and your face turned to the sun as it descends into the ocean in a glorious orgy of scarlet, cerise, violet and lavender. It’s traditional to wait until at least five p.m., but here in Siesta Key things are a bit laid back, so it wouldn’t be a crime at three.
I’m Dixie Hemingway — no relation to you-know-who. I’m a cat sitter. I live on a tiny sliver of an island off the coast of Florida. For the most part, my life is pretty damn boring. I mean, it’s not every day I’m at Colonel Teddy’s at three in the afternoon cradling a spicy grapefruit margarita in my hands, but this morning I opened the front door of my first client to find a dead body lying on the marble floor in the middle of the foyer. It was a man I didn’t recognize. He was flat on his back in a dark suit, his bare feet poking out of the pressed cuffs of his pants at odd angles, his eyes frozen in astonishment, and there was a small white envelope pinned to his lapel.
You’d think I would’ve screamed, but I didn’t. Instead, I raced through the house and found Winston, the green-eyed Abyssinian I was there to take care of, and then I carried him right out of the house and down to the street to call 911. I may look like a ditzy blond, but I’ve seen more than my share of bad stuff. I’m a sheriff’s deputy. Or at least I was until about five years ago, when my whole world came crashing down around me… but that’s a whole other story.
For now, all I want to do is forget today ever happened, which is why I’m guzzling this margarita instead of sipping it, and why I’m seriously considering asking the bartender for another. Problem is, there’s not enough tequila in the world to make me forget that poor man, or for that matter, the envelope on his lapel. It was attached with a six-inch hat needle, at the tip of which was a white, pea-sized pearl. In the upper left corner of the envelope, in perfectly careful hand-writing, was a name written in dark blue ink: Ignacy Horrocks.
Now I’m pretty sure I’ve never heard that name before. It’s not exactly the kind of name you’d easily forget. But the name the envelope was addressed to? Even as flustered as I was, I recognized that name right away…
It was Dixie Hemingway.
You can read more about Dixie in The Cat Sitter’s Nine Lives, the 9th book in the “Dixie Hemingway” mystery series, published by Minotaur. The first book in the series is Curiosity Killed the Cat Sitter. Books are available at retail and online booksellers.
GIVEAWAY: Leave a comment by 6 p.m. eastern on August 1 for the chance to win a copy of The Cat Sitter’s Nine Lives. (US entries only, please.)
Meet the author
John Clement is the son of Blaize Clement, author of The Dixie Hemingway Mysteries. John lives in New York City and is currently at work on the next Dixie Hemingway mystery.
You can also find John at dixiehemingway.com, on Twitter or on Facebook.
Follow dru’s book musing on Facebook for posting about discounted books, giveaways and some of my reading musings.
Oh my…what an introduction! Sounds good to me. and so does the drink! 🙂
I love the Dixie Hemingway Series and this one sounds very exciting! I also love grapefruit drinks. Just adopted two female kitties and we have already bonded.
I love this series!! I’ve read it from the very beginning and enjoyed every single book. Thanks for the giveaway!!
Love the recipe for the drink – sounds spicy. Thank you for the chance to win
A mystery AND a cat—the perfect combination for a good read! Thanks for the opportunity to win a copy of this book!
Hmm, I’ve never even thought about making a grapefruit margarita! Thanks for the recipe and look into the book!
A great series and so glad that John is continuing it!
This has been a great series for me to read in the past. I am grateful to John for continuing it for us.
thank you for the chance to win 🙂
This looks like another great book in a great series. I have read the others and would love a chance to read this one.
Well, I’ve just put a hold on the book at my local library, but I’d much rather own it. Toss my hat in the contest ring please Dru.
Your books are always my “go to” as the best cat mysteries ever. I need to add this one for my collection, meow!
I’ve marked my calendar for the release! What a fabulous opening.
Thank you for continuing this series! I can’t wait to read this one!! :o)
This is my favorite series. Thanks for the chance to win.
This sounds like a really good book.
I’ve been a fan of Dixie Hemingway from the very first book. I can’t wait to read this one. The teaser was almost too much to bear. I’ll just have to bide my time sipping some grapefruit margaritas until it arrives on the shelf!
I absolutely ADORE this series. After reading the newest one, I anxiously await the arrival of the next one. It is a well-developed series with wonderful characters!
Thank you for the opportunity to win this new book. I love this series.
Can’t wait to read the new book. Thanks for sharing .
Sounds great. I have been wanting to read this.
Marilyn ewatvess@yahoo.com
How cruel of you! That was a great teaser for the next book, but how long do we have to wait for it!?!? I love Dixie and can’t wait to see what happens next! And thank you for the opportunity to win!
My taste buds are tingling. As always, I am eager to read the next book in this series. Thank you for continuing it.
I’ve read all the “Cat Sitter” books and loved them from the first. I have never read a series that was continued by someone else and you absolutely couldn’t tell. Congratulations, John. Great job! Can’t wait for the next one.
I have read all the “Cat Sitter” books and continue to love them. Would love to win a copy of the new book. John does a great job of keeping the same tone & spirit of his mom’s books….as does Ace Atkins with Robert Parker’s “Spencer’s” novels.
Love these books! The drink sounds wonderful, gonna have to make it 🙂
Love it! Thanks for the chance to win. (-:
I want to find out what happens! And love the Florida location.
I devoured this series, when I discovered it. Dixie became an immediate friend, since I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. Reading is the best escape from the stress that comes with disability and chronic pain…something I’ve found medications fail to do . I have much love for Blaize and to John for continuing this series. Whether I win or not, there are very few authors that can create characters in a series that literally touch hearts and make life a little better. Thanks to those special people.
And Dixie is off to the races again. Can hardly wait to read it.
I certainly want to read this book. Keep up the good work.
A wonderful series which is captivating.
Oh wow! i’m hooked! Love Dixie’s adventures or misadventures. She’s one smart cat!
I’ve enjoyed this series muchly, good reading! Thanks for offering a free one!
Love cats, this book sounds great. Don’t think I’d like the recipe though.
I love your books and your Mother’s. They are so cute, scary at times and of course make Florida sound so inviting. Are you going to start a “New York Series”? I’m glad Dixie’s books are continuing and I can’t wait to read this new one!!
Sounds like a good read.
I’d try this drink if someone made it for me. It sounds mighty strong with three ounces of tequila, so please provide a nice lounge chair for me to collapse in. I’d love to read this book. I’m glad Dixie thought to take Winston with her.
Sounds like a really great read and can’t wait to add it to my TBR stack.
Mysteries and cats what could be a better combination. I can’t wait to read the latest book.
John does a great job with keeping this belove series alive, would love to win this book.
I am a real live cat sitter! My daughter drove 500 miles to pick me up to care for her cat while she is on a business trip. At the moment the cat is making it hard for me to type on the iPad by comprising my lap. I love your books!
I wish I could find a good cat sitter in my neighborhood—but what a perfect occupation for a cozy.
suefarrell.farrell@gmail.com
So glad John continue with his Mom’s series. What a legacy to leave a child. And what a son who picks it up and runs with it. Great job.
I’ve enjoyed all of these books and looking forward to more. Dora
My friend just recommended your books to me. I love a good mystery and cats, I think I am in heaven now.
OH NO! What happens next? As another Dixie, my patience is not good and my curiosity is very high!
What a great series. I have read them all and can’t wait to get my hands on this one. You are a fantastic writer as was your mother. Love these books
OH NO! What happens next? As another Dixie, my patience is not good and my curiosity is VERY high!
I absoluyely love this series and can’t wait to read this latest book! I’m so glad John has kept the series going.
Very enticing beginning to a mystery story! It certainly makes me want to read it right now. Of course I copied the Margarita recipe. 🙂
Love all the books! Can’t wait to see what trouble Dixie gets into this time.
Another typical cat-sitting day begins for Dixie! Thank you, John, for keeping her in action. Your mother would be delighted.
I love Dixie. I’m so glad you can continue the series.
I’m just itching to get into this book! I love the series and am so very glad John Clement has continued it. My cat just walked across the keyboard adding a bunch of gibberish; she had to get her two cents in too!
What a beginning! I have to read the rest of this book!
This is such an enticing beginning. I love cozies and cats, too.
Your series are the best. The drink makes it even better.
I can say I am a true admirer of Dixie Hemingway. When I retired in May 2013 I pursued by part time pet sitting service and enjoy it everyday. Recently I showed up at my neighbor/friends house to let her yellow lab Cloe outside only to find several State Police walking around outside and talking with a neighbor. Needless to say thoughts if a breaking jumped into my mind. To make a long story short the house was secure and they questioned me about the where abouts of my neighbor’s daughter who is avoiding any arrest warrant and was thought to be staying at the house. We entered the house and after a search they left the property. At this point my heart had settled down and I took care of Cloe and locked up and returned home. I related the story and told my daughter I could now kind of relate to a Dixie Hemingway story. I look forward to reading the newest book and sharing with my pet lover friends and family.
Dead body first thing in the morning? Not good. (Or any other time, for that matter).
Not addressed to you pinned to the body? VERY not good!
I just hope she’s not on any blood pressure meds if she’s drinking grapefruit juice!
Phooey That is supposed to say “Note”
Always fun reads….captivating and descriptive!
Sounds like another GREAT story. Can’t wait to read it. Best of luck with the book – and all the future ones to come. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for a chance to win the new book in the series! Also thanks so much for continuing your moms work!
I’ve read every wonderful entry in this Dixie Hemingway series and enjoy them more with each book. Would most definitely love to receive an actual book for my tiny library. all my reviews found on amazon.com & Goodreads.com.
Looking forward to another Dixie story. Love the characters and descriptions of Florida. Keep up the good work, John!
I absolutely love Dixie, her family, her friends and her wonderful way with all of the animals she cares for. Haven’t missed a book yet, and will definitely read this one. Be nice to own it, tho!, Thanks, John for allowing us to continue our adventures with Dixie.
Frankly, I see very few cozy writers who are men. That and the best ever pet cat cover with the cat actually reading a book, is why I’d love to give this series a chance to be added to my “must read” series.
It sounds like more Dixie fun is coming our way! Thanks!!!
Can’t wait to read it. Thanks for keeping Dixie going for us.
A body. A note addressed to you. Scary? Oh! Yeah!!. Who? Why?
But when she’s thought about it for a few she’ll be right there looking for the who. Sounds like another thrilling ride. Can’t wait for the book.
Wow! That sure made me want to read the book! Great teaser!
My orange Maine Coon, who bears a resemblance to the guy on this cover, considers it a must to curl up on my lap whenever I get a new Dixie book. He won’t admit it, but I’m pretty sure he is reading them, too!
We would love a copy of this book for our very own!
you had me at Hemingway, even though it’s not Ernest. Please put me in the draw.
As always, poor Dixie has walked into a mess! I love these books – keep them coming!!
you have stepped into a pair of very big shoes and are doing a great job.
I just started collecting these books so I can have all of them when I start reading the series. I know once I start I wont want to stop so having as many as I can when I start will be awesome !! I havent gotten this one yet….. 🙂
Would love to read this!
I’m glad to see another Dixie Hemingway novel, and even happier to see one with a drink recipe.
Who knew that Siesta Key was such a haven for crime? :). Still love that place and the Dixie Hemingway series!!! So glad there is another book on the way!
I’ll drink to this! Excellent, lively post, John Clement! Cheers!
Woo, hoo! Another Dixie Hemingway mystery! Enter me, please!
harvee44@yahoo.com
I am glad to see another Dixe novel, cant wait. enter me please. Jane
I’ve really enjoyed reading the “Dixie” books. I was saddened by the news of your mom passing.
This first chapter in your new book is great!! I can not wait to get my hands on it!! Thank you for sharing.
~Teri Maranci
Sounds like a fun read, have enjoyed all the rest.
Love this series; have read it from the beginning. So glad that you were able to continue Dixie’s adventures for us. Please, enter my name in the drawing.
Margaret Franson
Absolutely can’t wait!! Loved all the Dixie Hemingway books and I know I’ll love this one too!!
How can you not love a new book in the Dixie Hemingway series. I’m anxiously waiting for the drawing for the free book. Hope I’m lucky. It has to be a good one I’m sure with a cover as fetching as this one has.
Can’t wait for the new book!!!
Can’t wait! I’d love to win a copy!!
I wholeheartedly agree that John does a splendid job continuing the series. I’m ready to read.
What an excellent preview! Can’t wait to read this one.
another ‘add’ to my Wish List!!!
All the books in this series are wonderful Blaize Clements was such a wonderful lady and I’m glad that John is continuing his mothers writing what a blessing thanks for the books. Please enter me into the drawing , thank you Lynne Chadwick
This book sounds right down my alley. I need a good summer read- in Siesta Key on vacation!
I love this series and have read all of them….I have all but this one, I believe…….I hope that I win!
Awesome!
Love the whole series, have read every book!
So glad John has taken over the series. I have read and loved them all.
I fell in love with this cover; brought back the memories of a few of my kitties of years ago; I am sure this is a great series; I have not had a chance to get any of these books but would certainly like to. Thank you.
Cynthia
I love the short story and it sounds like a great start to another fantastic book, Read the series from the beginning after a friend showed them to me a few years ago. The mixed drink sounds great. I would probably try the drink but alas I can’t do anything spicy thanks to an ulcer that will turn into a monster if I eat or drink anything spicy. Dixie Hemingway rocks in the literary world.
Another great story — Dixie is a real sweetheart who deserves happiness.
Looking forward to reading this one.
Glad to see this series continuing. I have enjoyed the earlier books.
Love you entire collection of DIXIE HEMINGWAY MYSTERIES. Love the CATS, and the DOGS, and the people characters too! MEOWSAH!
I love the Dixie Hemingway series. Can’t wait for the new book.o
I am such a huge fan of the Dixie Hemingway Mysteries and of John Clement for continuing on his mother’s awesome series. I love each and every book of the series. When I sit down to read one of these awesome books, it is just like “going on vacation” as I totally get immersed in them and am never disappointed. This last book was even more special to me because I also have a kitty named Cosmo…..although the cute one in the book is orange while mine is black…it just made this book even more extra special to me. Cosmo would lay next to me in bed alot while I was reading it. I always look forward to reading John’s exciting books and can’t wait to read his next one. I would love, love, love to win a book from him!!!!
Hi! I forgot to mention how very much I just loved the adorable cover on this last book…..so cute with the adorable kitty with the glasses reading…..it made me fall in love with the book before I even started reading it…..as I already knew I would love it. So cute!!!!!
WOW! What a wonderful tease. Can hardly wait to read the whole book.
Thanks for the giveaway.
Am looking forward to reading The Cat Sitter’s Nine Lives!
I was so sad to hear of Blaize Clement’s passing. I am thrilled her son is carrying on the adventures of Dixie, and I think he is doing a fabulous job. I can’t wait to find out what happens to everyone’s favorite pet sitter next!
John, you have again drawn me in, I think by the Abyssinian this time, and I hope you will send out the publishing date soon. However, winning ANY Dixie novel would put me into a sit-on-the-swing-with-Puma heaven. Thanks for this opportunity, and for the connection to Dru’s Book Musings as well.
Stay well, and do keep writing, please!
I think I have every book about Dixie Hemingway and her pet sitter experience. So happy that the series is continuing under the pen (? or is that computer) of her son.
John,
I already read Nine Lives si I assume this is the beginning of your next book! Sounds promising!
Anxiously await the next novel, I’ve read them all after finding the first few at my local library. Keep ’em coming!
I like the idea of a cat sitter sleuth. She seems funny too.
I’d love to win this one!
Poor Dixie, just wanting a quiet, pet-sitting life, but continually encountering dead bodies and bad people. How long until this book is available? Don’t keep us hanging . . . pretty please.
I love this series! I am so glad John is continuing it.
I started reading the Dixie Hemingway series several years ago, and have enjoyed the stories! Ive also been to Siesta Key, FL!! I would love to win a copy of this latest novel.
Another great series I have to add to my TBR list!
I haven’t started this series, but I’ve heard great things about it.
Love this series & John is doing a great job carrying it on.
It sounds like a great book and I’d love to read it. Thanks for having the giveaway.
I would love to win a copy of John’s/Blaize’s latest book. My husband and I have read all the previous Cat Sitter books and have been eagerly waiting for the newest one. Thank you John for continuing the series for all the fans of Dixie Hemingway!
Sounds wonderful. Thank you for the opportunity to win one of your books!
Sounds like a good book. Thanks for the giveaway.
Interesting recipe
Love the entires Dixie Hemingway Cat Sitter series!! John and Blaize Clements are my favorite authors!!!
Sounds good. Have to try the drink recipe. Look forward to reading this one. Thanks for the giveaway!
contest is closed.