Fabio celebrated his 54th birthday on March 15th and the milestone took me by surprise.  I had tossed the reality of Fabio aging from my memory because it helps me forget my own age.  Lee, one of our contest committee chairs, sent me a link from Huffington Post and reality arrived with a big thud. Fabio is in his FIFTIES! Take a trip down memory lane and choose your favorite from 40 of Fabio's covers published during his reign as the King of Covers.

Huffington Post Celebrates Fabio's 54th B-Day!

My favorite cover from the group is Johanna Lindsey's, Hearts Aflame, published by Avon.  It isn't a classic bodice ripper but if the hero keeps sliding his hand down her arm, the unfortunate heroine is in danger of losing her dress.  I also love Bronwyn Williams' Harlequin Historical, Gideon's Fall.   It wasn't one of the Huff Po selections (How could they miss this one?) but I love the expression on the hero's face and the loving embrace of the couple in the lower corner. 

On a personal note about Mr. Lanzoni, he launched a women's casual clothing line via Sam's Club in 2003.  When a friend told me that he would be appearing at the Naperville store, I had to see him up close and personal.   I made my poor husband tag along for the 1 hour drive from my NW Chicago suburb. He's such a good sport.

On the left is a photo I had taken of my Fabio moment.  I have to say, it's my favorite Fabio photo.  Yes, I purchased the coat I'm wearing and Fabio signed the lining. Fabio was very elegant and such a gentleman.   To this day, I have a soft spot in my heart for this man.

It's a little sad that Fabio covers helped create the misconception about romance novels being "trashy" and unworthy of serious consideration.  The clinch or bodice ripper covers have long haunted those of us who love reading romance. In spite of his contribution to the "bodice ripper" nickname, I admire Fabio and his wonderful sense of humor about his days as romance king.

His tongue in cheek ad campaign for Old Spice in 2011 makes me smile and I love that he doesn't run from his past.  There are quite a few models who won't admit they model for covers.  Fabio has always embraced his cover model days.  I love that about him.

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