tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89546839993909815172024-03-19T08:29:27.293+01:00MY JANE AUSTEN BOOK CLUBA friendly meeting place to read and discuss anything Austen...Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.comBlogger1064125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-90545455097393242312024-03-04T09:00:00.001+01:002024-03-04T09:00:00.422+01:00NEW RELEASE! FINDING JANE FAIRFAX BY ROBBIN J. PETERSON<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b></b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGWOqsrExzYJrs41a_CPuA8DNykbGv6_0H0GG6fns3HrDczHGTJ3NO4OGYRmommzCG1x_Xlt29pufvx98JP_lZu-B9SFzdokBv3UBPZ_iGPrjhORdDWD-aW21MIeQ2cCLvlDF9QsO7IxXZrxeVRb53m8mCwpHTaYBmLotDoeR-PuxDcXiXBP8JhxJd25E/s1080/Finding%20Jane%20Fairfax%20Book%20Tour%20graphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGWOqsrExzYJrs41a_CPuA8DNykbGv6_0H0GG6fns3HrDczHGTJ3NO4OGYRmommzCG1x_Xlt29pufvx98JP_lZu-B9SFzdokBv3UBPZ_iGPrjhORdDWD-aW21MIeQ2cCLvlDF9QsO7IxXZrxeVRb53m8mCwpHTaYBmLotDoeR-PuxDcXiXBP8JhxJd25E/w640-h640/Finding%20Jane%20Fairfax%20Book%20Tour%20graphic.jpg" width="640" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /><u><br /></u></b></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>ABOUT THE BOOK</u></b></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Jane Fairfax knows she is truly
fortunate. Most orphans face lives of hardship, whereas she was adopted by
doting surrogate parents who elevated her place in society and love her as
their own. Yet even they cannot shield her from the grim realities of life
without a suitable marriage. In moments of despair, Jane comforts herself with
a well-worn memory: that of a young man whose kind words when they were
children once soothed her heartbreak. But now that boy has grown into a dashing
gentleman―and their lives could not be more distant. Frank Churchill is a
prisoner of his station. His inheritance is held in the balance by his
demanding aunt, and the weight of her expectations is suffocating him. But when
a chance encounter brings the lovely Miss Fairfax back into his life, he
discovers what it is to truly live. As the pair secretly become acquainted amid
the confines of society’s strict rules, their friendship blossoms into love.
But in a world ruled by unyielding traditions, endeavoring to build a life together
would mean inviting a scandal that would shake the very foundation of the ton.<span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><o:p></o:p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtMDNXzw7cAV5lCnw2ewuq1f4NGMVfkneRhzF_H9hIkls5f5o7c692RXwCIGhBlPY7kiH_5llpSQxtsbl-kUZq2BbwJZwhJlyWFgm7pLE0UmsuYPWVD7SzyuyjfdKHqExW5ci1GTJAdpW3_kx8J8q1FvzHfdibvuc_t7Fe8T9COa6X2cArgH_7bPOIaE/s1500/Finding%20Jane%20Fairfax%202024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="996" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtMDNXzw7cAV5lCnw2ewuq1f4NGMVfkneRhzF_H9hIkls5f5o7c692RXwCIGhBlPY7kiH_5llpSQxtsbl-kUZq2BbwJZwhJlyWFgm7pLE0UmsuYPWVD7SzyuyjfdKHqExW5ci1GTJAdpW3_kx8J8q1FvzHfdibvuc_t7Fe8T9COa6X2cArgH_7bPOIaE/w424-h640/Finding%20Jane%20Fairfax%202024.jpg" width="424" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>MY REVIEW</u></b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Finding Jane Fairfax </b>by <b>Robbin J. Peterson</b> offers a compelling reimagination of characters from Jane Austen's <b>Emma</b>, shedding new light on the intricate dynamics woven into Austen's original narrative. In Austen's novel, Jane Fairfax is often portrayed as Emma Woodhouse' s perceived antagonist, a character whose quiet dignity and talents evoke both admiration and jealousy within Emma's world. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Frank Churchill, though charming, is depicted as somewhat duplicitous and not wholly positive in his actions and intentions. Peterson's novel takes these characters, so delicately crafted by Austen, and breathes new life into their stories, exploring the complexities of their relationships, desires, and motivations. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Through the lens of </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Finding Jane Fairfax</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;">, readers are invited to delve deeper into the hearts and minds of these characters, uncovering layers of depth and nuance that resonate across both narratives. In doing so, Peterson honors Austen's legacy while offering a fresh perspective that enriches our understanding of these beloved literary figures.</span></p><div style="text-align: justify;">As an avid enthusiast of Jane Austen's literary world, immersing myself in <b>Finding Jane Fairfax</b> was an intriguing endeavor. Set against the backdrop of Regency-era England, the novel follows the trials and tribulations of Jane Fairfax, a young woman who struggles with the constraints of societal expectations and the quest for an appropriate marriage. The author skillfully captures the essence of Austen's world, where class distinctions and societal norms dictate the lives of its characters.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">At the core of the story lies the evolving relationship between Jane Fairfax and Frank Churchill, a connection that transcends childhood memories and blossoms into a clandestine romance. Burdened by familial obligations and societal pressures, Frank finds solace and liberation in Jane's presence, while Jane, despite her outward poise, harbors her own vulnerabilities and desires.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Robbin J. Peterson adeptly portrays the complexities of their relationship, infusing the narrative with longing, tension, and emotional depth. The clandestine nature of their courtship adds layers of intrigue and suspense as they cope with the rules propriety and societal expectations.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the novel's strengths lies in its character development. Jane Fairfax emerges as a resilient and multifaceted protagonist, whose inner struggles and desires resonate deeply with readers. Similarly, Frank Churchill undergoes a transformation, shedding the facades of societal expectations to embrace his authentic self.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Moreover, the prose is elegant and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of Regency-era society, from opulent ballrooms to covert rendezvous. The rich descriptions immerse readers in a world of luxury and constraint, evoking a sense of time and place that feels authentic and immersive.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Finding Jane Fairfax</b> is a compelling and enjoyable read that may be appreciated by fans of Jane Austen and lovers of historical romance alike. Robbin J. Peterson's homage to Austen is heartwarming and offers memorable scenes that will stay in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Jane-Fairfax-Robbin-Peterson-ebook/dp/B0CNGFLJX1?ref_=ast_author_mpb"><b>PURCHASE LINK</b></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTJYoW7u5mZhI2tBjdgPKHQJxHXBr_kSqzZAQPOJ0hoIaiRD8XZwwvNCwmPTwAhN6r3nqnW-o1pn-sGsLzmX6kpobow8W1C-J228MGnBBuaQzxPPQUgPQEw0KB_vU5tPvKDRSkPIu5728HjqPEYr1DnUC0zh9jtuNEqYduIauKUcoWsMlGpDGLTfgIF8/s1080/Robbin%20J%20Peterson%20author%20headshot%202024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTJYoW7u5mZhI2tBjdgPKHQJxHXBr_kSqzZAQPOJ0hoIaiRD8XZwwvNCwmPTwAhN6r3nqnW-o1pn-sGsLzmX6kpobow8W1C-J228MGnBBuaQzxPPQUgPQEw0KB_vU5tPvKDRSkPIu5728HjqPEYr1DnUC0zh9jtuNEqYduIauKUcoWsMlGpDGLTfgIF8/w640-h640/Robbin%20J%20Peterson%20author%20headshot%202024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><u>ABOUT THE AUTHOR</u></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Robbin J. Peterson is the author of Going Home, Conviction, and 13 Days of Girls Camp. She earned her degree in English literature from Utah State University and her associate of arts degree from Snow College. She has six kids, plays the viola, and works as an elementary school librarian.</span></div></span>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-30931123518589653152024-03-03T08:30:00.002+01:002024-03-03T08:30:00.132+01:00DISCOVERING THE HUSBANDS OF ELIZABETH BENNET WITH CHRISTINE COMBE: EXCERPT AND GIVEAWAY!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ek_2vzmpHI3XmsJf1gbbgJ75eHlS15Asm0g2PweQsx0BgimsSQDb1o0E67YR5XkxmFonnbXCfXQ9jvkOhosr4YiPrWc8VGotljFHZ2mzSp3SXp7x9ND2mCBqU_1G7y7qHjz_ChsNKnyi09NZGreXuWpUfcLp79HXFT_zIeYvXXiRs6gXQw0L3h5C_2g/s900/lizzie_and_darcy_by_katiexxx89_d2fdl22-fullview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ek_2vzmpHI3XmsJf1gbbgJ75eHlS15Asm0g2PweQsx0BgimsSQDb1o0E67YR5XkxmFonnbXCfXQ9jvkOhosr4YiPrWc8VGotljFHZ2mzSp3SXp7x9ND2mCBqU_1G7y7qHjz_ChsNKnyi09NZGreXuWpUfcLp79HXFT_zIeYvXXiRs6gXQw0L3h5C_2g/w640-h400/lizzie_and_darcy_by_katiexxx89_d2fdl22-fullview.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Dear Austenians,</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0d0d0d; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Welcome, one and all, to My Jane Austen Book Club! I am thrilled to extend a heartfelt welcome to each of you who decided to join us on the second day of a truly special journey.</i></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0d0d0d; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Today, it is my distinct pleasure to introduce our esteemed guest, Christine Combe! Welcome back and thank you for being a part of this delightful gathering.</i></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0d0d0d; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Today, we have the privilege of exploring Christine's latest literary marvel, <b>The Husbands of Elizabeth Bennet</b>. This brilliant duet, crafted with Christine's masterful pen, promises to whisk us away to the enchanting world of Jane Austen's iconic characters.<span></span></i></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0d0d0d; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>We are invited to unravel the mysteries and marvels of Elizabeth Bennet's world. From the tranquil beauty of the countryside to the elegant ballrooms of Regency England, Christine's prose effortlessly transports us to a world where love, laughter, and longing dance hand in hand.</i></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0d0d0d; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>In the excerpt shared with us, we catch a glimpse of Elizabeth's indomitable spirit as she navigates the tumultuous waters of love and loss. Christine's narrative prowess shines brightly as she weaves a tapestry of intrigue and suspense, drawing us ever deeper into the heart of Austen's beloved universe.</i></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0d0d0d; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Please, scroll down and embrace the magic that awaits within the pages of <b>The Husbands of Elizabeth Bennet.</b> </i></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0d0d0d; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Christine, once again, I extend my sincerest gratitude for gracing us with your presence and for sharing your literary gifts with our community. Your talent and passion illuminate our shared love for all things Austen, and we are truly privileged to have you with us today.</i></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0d0d0d; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>To our cherished readers, I extend a warm invitation to lose yourselves in Jane Austen's world as recreated by our guest. May your journey through Austen's world be as delightful as the company you keep along the way.</i></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0d0d0d; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: black; white-space-collapse: collapse;">***</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you for
having me, Maria Grazia— I am so very happy to be featured on your blog today.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Greetings fellow
Austenians, and welcome to the second day of my blog tour! I am <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">very</i> excited to be visiting My Jane
Austen Book Club once again, this time to talk about <i>two</i> new books! <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That’s right,
two — I’ve written and published a duet (or duology, if you prefer) in the last
six months, entitled <i>The Husbands of Elizabeth Bennet</i>.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span>In volume one…</span> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkCnqdPFKEyevaIRJRkNeP8K1cH8n2eFaUDM5X5O8Ammjw6SuyG_UNYhU0JgkSPOWj6z-sDgj4gfQU29UKJN4visuCOhZpwNSg1ezTiH0S3VguQOTFLNenaaA3BwCB36hKnPhh302BH7Lc37KQ5-FPio28eM2FsKQ9TuwRrx8ASNJURBquZ2TgXsERM0/s3817/Volume%20One%20Full%20Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2681" data-original-width="3817" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkCnqdPFKEyevaIRJRkNeP8K1cH8n2eFaUDM5X5O8Ammjw6SuyG_UNYhU0JgkSPOWj6z-sDgj4gfQU29UKJN4visuCOhZpwNSg1ezTiH0S3VguQOTFLNenaaA3BwCB36hKnPhh302BH7Lc37KQ5-FPio28eM2FsKQ9TuwRrx8ASNJURBquZ2TgXsERM0/w640-h450/Volume%20One%20Full%20Cover.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">In volume two…</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHgOmx1WVQV1ghVw1BSR4FVW2UTsb95zJESgHDe0IUsLbRAfYTI6UPe79oa3FnCZf7KkzRbVRr3bwJUP97VoCtyElV9k4Kv1qk3axCjYoVJl7hREV5s49n5wwQOxQWzb6qQsVFifeUr5_45tVLE7FucwxL-2pU8ctTqv8GxVylySIZ6bB2rtR4kNj4O8/s3705/Volume%20Two%20Full%20Cover.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2577" data-original-width="3705" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHgOmx1WVQV1ghVw1BSR4FVW2UTsb95zJESgHDe0IUsLbRAfYTI6UPe79oa3FnCZf7KkzRbVRr3bwJUP97VoCtyElV9k4Kv1qk3axCjYoVJl7hREV5s49n5wwQOxQWzb6qQsVFifeUr5_45tVLE7FucwxL-2pU8ctTqv8GxVylySIZ6bB2rtR4kNj4O8/w640-h446/Volume%20Two%20Full%20Cover.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Aren’t these
covers lovely? Now, how about an excerpt from volume one? Read on…</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">***<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A pleasant walk in the country—Elizabeth Bennet had taken many
simply to enjoy the beauty of nature. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This one, she had taken to escape her home. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A small part of her felt guilty at leaving her sister Jane to suffer
the continuous lamentations of their mother without her support, for Mrs.
Bennet had bemoaned the departure of Netherfield’s current leaseholder each day
of the fortnight since Charles Bingley, his family, and his friend Mr. Darcy
had gone to London. Constant was her chatter on the subject, wondering why
Bingley had gone, why he hadn’t come back, what had Jane done to drive him
away…<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Elizabeth was sensitive to her sister’s feelings on the subject—she
knew Jane had cared for Mr. Bingley very much—but when their mother wasn’t
decrying the young man for his fickleness, Jane was crying on her shoulder
because she missed seeing him. Because she wished he hadn’t gone away. She
cried over her fear that Caroline Bingley—Mr. Bingley’s unmarried younger
sister—was right and that Mr. Bingley had not cared for her at all because his
heart was already set on another. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span lang="EN-US">Considering Georgiana Darcy is the same age as Lydia, I would have thought</span></i><span lang="EN-US"> her <i>brother of the mind that she is far too young to marry</i>,
Elizabeth mused as she walked. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With a sigh, she dismissed all thoughts of Mr. Bingley and Jane’s
disappointment, and through her nose she drew a deep, fortifying breath—she’d
stepped out on this unusually warm December morning to avoid the drama going on
at home and clear her head, not bring it along with her. Elizabeth walked a
steady, slow pace along the road that would take her to Oakham Mount, her
favorite spot to think, read, or just enjoy the beauty of God’s creation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As she approached a section of the road which was lined on both sides
by a small wood, where the trees closest to it created something of a canopy
through the spring and summer months, Elizabeth’s eyes widened at the sight of
a horse with what looked to be a carriage harness around to it, or at least
part of such a contraption. The chestnut beast lifted its head when it took
notice of her, then turned and started toward her. They met halfway between
their positions, and it was with a hesitant hand that Elizabeth reached for the
horse’s bridle.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Dear creature, where did you come from?” said she in a gentle voice
as she stroked the horse’s velvety nose with her free hand. “What’s happened to
the rest of your carriage, and your master, hmm?” <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The horse lifted its head and gave a short neigh, then it turned
toward the wooded part of the road. Elizabeth went along, a mixture of
curiosity and trepidation filling her. She began to pray that the creature
beside her was leading her to nothing, but she sensed it would bring her onto a
scene most dreadful.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">She was not wrong. Soon after their reaching the edge of the wood,
Elizabeth gasped at the sight of an overturned carriage several feet away. Her
companion’s partner was still hitched to the vehicle and prancing anxiously in
place. She saw a man dressed in livery lying eerily still on the ground by the
back of the carriage, a large red stain coloring the dirt road beneath him.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Oh, dear God,” Elizabeth cried softly as her eyes darted about.
Were the culprits still here? Where was the driver, and the occupants of the
carriage? Could the latter still be inside?<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As much as she wished it otherwise in that moment, she knew it was
her Christian duty to see if there was any hope of saving the man on the
ground, and to lend aid to any other person who might have survived the
accident. She let go the bridle of the horse that had brought her to the
horrible scene and approached cautiously. Bile rose in her throat as she noted
that the man on the ground was unmistakably dead, for he had what she assumed
was a gunshot wound to his temple. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This was no simple carriage accident.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Elizabeth looked around again. She neither saw nor heard anyone but
that did not mean she was alone. Her eyes fell to the ground again, and she
looked about for anything that might be used as a weapon to defend herself; her
heart sunk when she saw nothing but thin twigs. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Again, she drew a fortifying breath, and stepping around the body,
she approached the carriage. The curtain about the back window was askew, so
she stepped as close as she could to peek inside it. There was a single
person—a man—inside, but she was certain that he was deceased also, for his
neck was bent at an odd angle, his eyes were open wide, and he did not move.
Elizabeth’s own eyes began to sting with tears for the loss of the two men. The
carriage had clearly been attacked by highwaymen, and her sense of fear was
heightened at the thought, as such a thing was almost unheard of this close to
Meryton. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A sharp neigh from the horse at the front of the carriage caused
Elizabeth to emit a short screech of fear. She then heard what sounded like a
moan—and knowing it could not possibly be the gentleman behind her or the one
inside the carriage, she moved around the vehicle and noted another liveried
man on the ground a few feet from the carriage. A second weak moan told her he
was most definitely alive, and she hurried over, her fear temporarily
forgotten. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Elizabeth knelt beside him as she took in his appearance; he had
brown hair shot with gray around the temples, though there were no age lines
about his face, and he seemed quite fit. His left leg was bent at an odd angle
below the knee, suggesting a bad break, and there were multiple wounds to his
chest and abdomen that still bled.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Sir? Sir, can you hear me? Talk to me, tell me your name,” said she
as she picked up his hand and patted it. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The man turned his head toward her, his eyes fluttering as they
opened. “H-help me…” he muttered so softly she nearly did not hear him speak.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Elizabeth nodded vigorously. “I will, sir. You must hang on; I will
go and get help!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The man’s hand tightened ever so slightly around hers. “No… stay…”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“But sir, I cannot help you if I stay!” Elizabeth cried softly. “I
must fetch help—men to carry you, the apothecary—” <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The sound of approaching horses drew a gasp from Elizabeth, her attention
drawn sharply in the direction from which she’d come. Two men on horseback
approached—slowly, at first, but then their pace picked up as they took note of
the overturned carriage. The man in front seemed familiar, but she could not
place him until he called out:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Hello there, is there anyone alive?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span lang="EN-US">Mr. Bingley!</span></i><span lang="EN-US"> Elizabeth’s mind cried out
in relief. She looked down at the carriage driver as tears of relief spilled
from her eyes. “Help is come, sir! Help is come to us!” <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 21.6pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">His only reply was to moan again. Elizabeth patted his hand again,
then she set it down gently and stood. “Mr. Bingley, over here!” she cried out,
waving her arms that he would see her.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">***<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <b>GIVEAWAY</b></span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The die is
cast! Tell me what you think in the comments below and remember to visit each
blog on the tour and write down the keyword for each day. Comment on the last
blog (All That They Desire) with the sentence the words create to enter for
your chance to win print copies of both novels! Contest open worldwide!<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Keyword:
HUSBANDS</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If for any
reason you cannot comment on the last blog, reach out to Christine via email or
Facebook with the full sentence to qualify for the drawing.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTCnRJ8OWSiZrv88nGbrV_kgmxsQTFMrUjUBR1TnTaYlccpuWjvjXRALgPzAyUWux3h-0_xSb-O-dulxZwvnNLzFvPt7kT5SnHvTRErTr4NOneaJBbT_AqSxjGHXQ093ifisPxBRCmN1rITH0fiNNMYXROW2sEkaBZJb53G1lFxPE_JxHhld86zEg9Fo/s1024/Husbands%20Tour%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="1024" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTCnRJ8OWSiZrv88nGbrV_kgmxsQTFMrUjUBR1TnTaYlccpuWjvjXRALgPzAyUWux3h-0_xSb-O-dulxZwvnNLzFvPt7kT5SnHvTRErTr4NOneaJBbT_AqSxjGHXQ093ifisPxBRCmN1rITH0fiNNMYXROW2sEkaBZJb53G1lFxPE_JxHhld86zEg9Fo/w640-h518/Husbands%20Tour%202.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you for
stopping by to learn a little more about </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">The Husbands of Elizabeth Bennet</i><span style="font-family: inherit;">
today, and thanks again to Maria Grazia for having me!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Christine Combe</span></b></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Both volumes of
</span><i style="font-family: inherit;">The Husbands of Elizabeth Bennet</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> are available in ebook, paperback, and
hardcover from Amazon. Also available to read in Kindle Unlimited.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">***</span></span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMyWtw3ncyq5zEJRW3le8c5ZTx63CqXgg6sRPI_FZQO9tTSZs3jpCH7VBPyRQyEtwRdzjDFLcsg09zviQb-BiPP7XJKkm75idljlEiIp2bSvYX0g9fSVNMRtKZgQ5lPIkRwVu_mTRVYDh0Et-HLQQd-VElzXvB_8Hak84xi98bF0x7j-YJ2QQvB2xGT8I/s400/Author%20Pic%202.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMyWtw3ncyq5zEJRW3le8c5ZTx63CqXgg6sRPI_FZQO9tTSZs3jpCH7VBPyRQyEtwRdzjDFLcsg09zviQb-BiPP7XJKkm75idljlEiIp2bSvYX0g9fSVNMRtKZgQ5lPIkRwVu_mTRVYDh0Et-HLQQd-VElzXvB_8Hak84xi98bF0x7j-YJ2QQvB2xGT8I/s320/Author%20Pic%202.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Christine, like
many a JAFF author before her, is a long-time admirer of Jane Austen‘s work,
and she hopes that her alternate versions are as enjoyable as the originals.
She has plans to one day visit England and take a tour of all the grand country
estates which have featured in film adaptations, and often dreams of owning
one. Christine lives in Ohio and is already at work on her next book.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Links<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Email: <a href="file:///C:/Users/learn/Desktop/3MARZO%20Christine%20Combe/reblogtour/authorchristinecombe@gmail.com">authorchristinecombe@gmail.com</a> /
Blog: <a href="https://allthattheydesire.blogspot.com/">All That They Desire</a>
/ Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AuthorChristineCombe">Christine
Combe</a></span><o:p></o:p></span></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-39721620066611384592024-03-02T15:14:00.001+01:002024-03-02T15:23:48.443+01:00CAROLINE BINGLEY: DAMN HER AND HER FINE EYES. A SHORT STORY. <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6K-d9UavBZSnNHTcZ64D24J3M50ldfx7idIQH_lE7VtVfA9mZNXmr1_nWlmh8EXKZIxsVVTml7xOaFXtqrqBoYn1esf4PVXeFv2j1H0JQQz9aXQ2OWtqISsIitF2W2RQEoGvFjv9NemPD-Og0ChVROoTnbFrG9m6Ahgi4eqZUbi09uiSscndOwbB1AF0/s450/Caroline-bingley.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="338" data-original-width="450" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6K-d9UavBZSnNHTcZ64D24J3M50ldfx7idIQH_lE7VtVfA9mZNXmr1_nWlmh8EXKZIxsVVTml7xOaFXtqrqBoYn1esf4PVXeFv2j1H0JQQz9aXQ2OWtqISsIitF2W2RQEoGvFjv9NemPD-Og0ChVROoTnbFrG9m6Ahgi4eqZUbi09uiSscndOwbB1AF0/w640-h480/Caroline-bingley.webp" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Introducing Damn Her and
Her Fine Eyes!</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Greetings, dear readers of <b>My Jane Austen
Book Club!</b> Today, I am thrilled to present to you a delightful treat for all
lovers of Regency-era literature and the intricate dance of courtship: <b>Damn Her and Her Fine Eyes!</b><o:p></o:p></i></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>This short story, penned by the talented
author behind "The Three Witches of Milton," delves into the world of
<b>Caroline Bingley</b>, a character familiar to fans of Jane Austen's beloved
classic, Pride and Prejudice. Set in the illustrious realm of
Austen's England, Damn Her and Her Fine Eyes! offers a captivating
glimpse into the life and intrigues of one of literature's most memorable
antagonists.<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>In this intimate tale, Caroline Bingley
takes center stage, revealing layers of her character often left unexplored.
With a narrative spanning a mere 2,000 words, the story unfolds with precision
and nuance, inviting readers to unravel the complexities of Caroline's
ambitions, desires, and innermost thoughts.<span></span></i></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><o:p></o:p></i></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>As we journey through the pages of Damn Her and Her Fine Eyes! we witness Caroline Bingley in all her
glory and vulnerability, her aspirations laid bare against the backdrop of
Regency society. Through the author's skillful prose, we are drawn into
Caroline's world, where wit and charm mask a yearning for recognition and
affection.<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>This short story, nestled within the pages
of The Three Witches of Milton, offers a fresh perspective on a
character often relegated to the role of antagonist. As we explore Caroline
Bingley's motivations and desires, we are reminded that even the most seemingly
composed individuals harbor secrets and vulnerabilities beneath their polished
exteriors.<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>I invite you, dear readers, to immerse
yourselves in the world of "Damn Her and Her Fine Eyes!" Join us as
we unravel the mysteries of Caroline Bingley's heart and engage in spirited
discussion about the nuances of her character. Your insights, reflections, and
interpretations are invaluable as we explore the depths of this intriguing
figure from the annals of literary history.<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>So, without further ado, let us embark on
this journey together and discover the hidden truths lurking within the pages
of Damn Her and Her Fine Eyes! I eagerly anticipate our discussions
and the insights that will undoubtedly enrich our understanding of Caroline
Bingley and the world she inhabits.</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"> <b><span style="font-family: inherit;">MGxx</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1RRmdUkmRd7Bo9nD7rfE4nxJB98DLRO5H6taVytYqQqEezOdof5m7F51-0v0mnJDRqJ2aQqjxmZXvVxDwhFDJdT6vG6IuTlPCiRCyTyG3vbq783ZBGYzXGH-l5yb5IaJIFGalQLooCxmJ0Gfiuh4UJXzvEm8yqcAQnuDZyNfnRKp3XPbAk_-O-yJTRKw/s3309/Mockup.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2037" data-original-width="3309" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1RRmdUkmRd7Bo9nD7rfE4nxJB98DLRO5H6taVytYqQqEezOdof5m7F51-0v0mnJDRqJ2aQqjxmZXvVxDwhFDJdT6vG6IuTlPCiRCyTyG3vbq783ZBGYzXGH-l5yb5IaJIFGalQLooCxmJ0Gfiuh4UJXzvEm8yqcAQnuDZyNfnRKp3XPbAk_-O-yJTRKw/w640-h394/Mockup.jpg" width="640" /></a></b></div><b><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b><p></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-outline-level: 2; text-align: center; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><a name="_Toc158531445"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 30pt;">Damn Her And Her Fine Eyes!</span></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 30pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 30pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Caroline Bingley’s Story</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As Caroline
Bingley sat at the breakfast table of her Chelsea house, nibbling crossly at
the corner of a crumpet that had, much to her irritation, not been toasted to
her exact specifications, she cast a disdainful glance at the window where the
rain lashed, wiggling down the panes like a cluster of translucent worms in a
race. A loathing for rain gripped her; it had a knack for spoiling the
exquisite hems of her silken gowns. To compound matters, the inclement weather
dampened the likelihood of a certain gentleman making social calls when in
town, meaning that he was less likely to find the opportunity or impulse to
request her hand in marriage. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nevertheless,
at least she could find some slight solace in the fact that she was in London,
once again supplanted in civilisation. The busy thoroughfare outside, with its
harried hum, provided a congenial symphony of urban sophistication that matched
the melody of her character. She admired the symmetry and uniformity of cities,
the way they edited disorder, eradicated it, rather, and corrected it with
exactness in the form of straight streets and shiny marble buildings. Indeed,
Caroline found relief in the cacophony, grateful for the absence of the
insufferable chirping that inundated the trees around Netherfield Park. Those
horrid little birds, with their audacious insolence, seemed to have claimed the
wildlife-infested land as their own, as if they held some preposterous
entitlement to the grounds that predated and predestined hers.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">‘Ugh! Nature!’
she exclaimed with an air of exasperation, her sensibilities offended by the
very idea of such insubordination. Was there ever anything more unnatural?
Caroline's contemplation was accompanied by a contemptuous grimace that etched
itself upon her refined features and attempted to sink into her skin as
wrinkles set in stone. In her discerning estimation, nature appeared as an
unwelcome intrusion into the cultivated realm of elegance she sought to
establish. The very notion of untamed creatures asserting their presence in domains
of genteel living struck her as a direct affront to the principles of propriety
she held dear. Moreover, the expansive grounds provided ample space for
walking, a most irksome exercise. Legs had been made by God to wear fine silken
stockings, <i>not</i>, to be used for traipsing about. Besides, it afforded
obstinate and headstrong women, who refused to adhere to conventional decorum,
the freedom to wander and captivate the notice of eligible bachelors.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yes, nature
should be kept in its place. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With a dismissive
shake of her head, Caroline deftly dabbed at her mouth to rid it of the
lingering smears of jam and put her mind to contemplating much pleasanter
concerns. Pondering the allocation of her precious time, she resolved to
dedicate it exclusively to the most superior pursuits. Perhaps a leisurely
shopping expedition, a scenic drive through St James's Park, or the attendance
of an elegant luncheon with the potential for disseminating some tastefully
malicious gossip. After all, <i>for what do we live, but to make sport for our
neighbours, and laugh at them in our turn? </i>Though, Caroline would
personally omit any suggestion that she could ever make sport for others, for
one so exemplary as she could only be talked of with the utmost admiration,
and, of course, envy.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yet, the most
alluring prospect of all, was the idea of reclining on her sumptuous settee,
allowing her thoughts to luxuriate in contemplation of the handsome Fitzwilliam
Darcy and the abundance of his marvellous wealth. In this quest for elevated
indulgence, Caroline envisioned her day unfolding with an exquisite fantasy.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cue breathy
sigh. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In Caroline’s
case, the saying was truer than true:<i> A lady's imagination is very rapid; it
jumps from admiration to love, from love to matrimony in a moment.<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As she thought
this most deliciously delightful thought, her quixotic musings were interrupted
as the door opened abruptly, and her brother marched right on in, as if he
owned the place, even if he did, in fact, own the place. Caroline's giddy grin
flopped into a frown. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-kKzh2rXTNW77x84dMWv7teepSzDTT_pVCjMvMNSoU-tFlyw9-3PAx7FXht91dF6QaW8JlrhlyB5mg5_UOlAP0LdGnOV1GcJpVk8IqL-fK7qE2HUS31f9MfLpvAiKlrR92DP_naCYm8j4TLNr5YC9GVC7ZGQoIdDXh33z4mn9X9RRQdV9oKJ21XCgQg/s512/8-b4uacCTPzvp4yRW.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="512" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-kKzh2rXTNW77x84dMWv7teepSzDTT_pVCjMvMNSoU-tFlyw9-3PAx7FXht91dF6QaW8JlrhlyB5mg5_UOlAP0LdGnOV1GcJpVk8IqL-fK7qE2HUS31f9MfLpvAiKlrR92DP_naCYm8j4TLNr5YC9GVC7ZGQoIdDXh33z4mn9X9RRQdV9oKJ21XCgQg/w640-h640/8-b4uacCTPzvp4yRW.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">'Charles,' she
nipped, declining him the courtesy of a “good morning,” and doing her best to
perfect her pitch so that it sounded as peeved as possible, a proficient art
that any finishing school worth its salt would teach a respectable young lady,
and needless to say, Caroline Bingley was the very best there ever was at
spouting a cynical and sneering jibe.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">However, much
to her dissatisfaction, her brother was not the least bit perturbed by her
artful attempt at rudeness, and as she looked up, a disgruntled Caroline
discerned the sparkle in his irritatingly lively eyes, his cheeks pink and
plump, just like a baby's bottom. With her flawless skin turning scarlet in
provocation, Caroline scowled, and if one listened carefully, then one would swear
that she snarled too.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">'What is the
matter with you?' she bit out with a wasp-like sting, sipping her coffee and
swirling the tart brew around her mouth. Caroline was never happy with her
brother at the best of times, but she had made a vow to permanently dislike him
-no, wait, detest him, - ever since he had become engaged to that Bennet
creature and thus degraded the Bingley name by association. What would people
think of them? He was entering into a marriage with a family lacking any
distinguished pedigree, accompanied by a mother of unapologetic vulgarity and
sisters spanning the spectrum from mind-numbingly mundane to outrageously
shocking. His ill-advised match (to put it mildly), blatantly invited the
scrutiny of public opinion.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As Charles
roamed back and forth with eager agitation, his curly hair caught the rays of
the sun which shone through the window, affecting the red strands upon his head
to gleam like fine wires of copper -how common! With her narrowed eyes tracking
him as he paced about the lavishly decorated morning room like a buffoon,
practically prancing as he went, Caroline grumbled, a slight growl seeping out
from between her gritted (yet perfectly straight and white), teeth.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Charles,
exuding an unrestrained exuberance akin to a poorly trained puppy, could hardly
contain the bubbling excitement coursing through him from tip to toe. As he
clapped his hands and licked his lips, the man energetically rolled on the
balls of his feet, preparing to unleash his most remarkable announcement with an
infectious zeal that promised to captivate the attention of his sibling.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">'I have
something to tell you,' he started, his face awash with animation. ‘It is about
our dear friend, Darcy.'<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Caroline, who
had been drinking her coffee, suddenly stopped and stilled, a generous mouthful
of hot, brown, sugary liquid now stuck in her gossiping mouth while she waited
with bated breath.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Oh! What was
this? The tantalising mystery hung in the air, supplemented by a cascade of
questions. Was it something truly ominous? Was Mr Darcy unwell, or worse,
involved in an accident that had permanently disfigured his handsome face? The
belief seemed implausible and it did not tally with her brother’s jovial
demeanour. It had to be something delightful, Caroline reassured herself. Could
it be that his horrid aunt had passed away, leaving him a substantial fortune
and the grand estate of Rosings Park? Or, perhaps he had finally persuaded
Charles to relinquish his intentions of marrying Jane Bennet and instead
consider uniting with Mr Darcy's sister, Georgiana? The prospect of such a
twist in fate enthralled Caroline, and she found herself favouring the notion.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">‘You will
never guess!’ he taunted good-naturedly.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Good heavens!
What could it possibly be, thought she?!<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Charles was
grinning from ear to ear like a Cheshire Cat who had well and truly got his
cream, and after letting out a strident chuckle of joy, one which can only
derive from a person with the most gentle and generous of hearts, he cheerfully
revealed, 'Why, he is engaged to be married!'<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In a mere
twinkling of an eye, Caroline spat out her coffee, the contents spilling out,
rather like...well, I am sorry to have to say it and be so uncouth (especially
over the breakfast table), but rather like an animal spraying its...well, you
know what.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Coughing and
spluttering, Caroline nearly choked, her countenance flushing a vivid hue
resembling rhubarb. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">‘<i>Engaged</i>!’
she blustered, the word struggling to escape, its two syllables momentarily
lodged in the recesses of her throat, threatening to do her in.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Charles' head
bobbed with such fervour that it seemed a marvel it did not dislodge from its
figurative perch altogether. The vigour of his nodding left Caroline feeling
distinctly woozy.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">'Yes!' he
confirmed merrily. 'Is it not wonderful? And to think, he and I will be like
brothers since we shall marry two sisters, the dearest ladies in all the world,
Jane and Elizabeth Bennet!' he cried, overjoyed by this most agreeable turn of
events. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">'Oh! I must go
and tell Louisa!' he said, opening the door and skidding off down the hallway
to speak with his other sister.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Left alone
once more, Caroline sat there in stunned silence, her mind seething, pounding
in the stillness of her solitude. Clutching onto the coffee cup which still
reposed in her well-polished hand, she tightened her grip, and before she knew
it, the fine china had shattered, sending fragments of Royal Doulton across the
table in a furious frenzy.<br />
As these pent-up passions erupted within, Caroline found herself utterly
devastated. Her nostrils flared, her eyes bulged, and her chest heaved with the
intensity of the agitation she felt, not to forget the mephitic anger. The
world around her seemed to blur as her mind reeled from the overwhelming spate
of feelings. In a moment of unbridled release, all she could do was unleash the
loudest and most unladylike scream that had ever escaped her pretty yet petty
lips.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The
reverberations of her shriek boomed through the room, setting the delicate
glass of the windows aquiver, causing the chandelier to sway precariously, and
even affecting the water goblets on the table to shudder in fright. The
physical manifestations of her emotional outburst mirrored the chaos she
suppressed inside, leaving an aftermath of trembling fragility in the
once-stately room. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">She was
experiencing not only humiliation but, on a deeper level, a twinge of
heartbreak. Had she ever genuinely loved Mr Darcy? Perhaps not, but she desired
him fervently, making the prospect of him marrying another, especially someone
as unsuitable and wholly unexpected as Elizabeth Bennet, particularly painful.
The impulse to cry overtook her, a tumultuous wave labouring to breach the
walls of her composure. With unyielding determination, she resisted, refusing
to yield to the dander that loomed. How could she see him again after this?
And, perhaps more daunting still, how could she face herself? The relics of her
broken aspirations recoiled and cowered in her wake, casting shadows over the
demoralising prospect of a fractured self-image that was beyond repair. She
would never be a Darcy. She would never live at Pemberley. And worst of all,
she would never have ten thousand a year.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: 5.65pt;">Caroline remained unmarried, never encountering a man who could command her
admiration as Mr Darcy had. On the rare occasions when she approached the brink
of such a connection, her spiteful tongue promptly repelled any potential
suitors. They considered her an embittered spinster, which was exactly what she
was. Gradually, even her sister wearied of her escalating animosity. She found
herself unable to visit her brother, whose happiness had flourished in stark
contrast to her own diminishing prospects. His joy had become entangled with
the Bennet family, a name she abhorred. </span><a name="_Hlk157578716" style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><i>There is, in
every disposition a tendency to some particular evil, a natural defect, which
not even the best education can overcome. And her defect was a propensity to hate
everybody.</i></a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Over the
passing years, Caroline withdrew into a reclusive existence, her mind even
going so far as to fondly recall her days at Netherfield, wondering how
different everything could have been if she had simply made peace with those
around her. Still, the resentment continued to poison her gradually. Each
encounter with a woman of striking beauty, who thought and spoke her mind,
evoked an involuntary hiss, a testament to the venom that had bled into her
solitary existence, and she would be known to boo: <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">‘Damn
her and her fine eyes!’<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">ABOUT THE THREE WITCHES OF MILTON</span></u></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"><b><u></u></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0ShN9GuC63VWHn2P13mMsXsytO1zCVNKYH-ILdFkQvg1eK6BoEMgc63dPggI5PKPyWMcNwiSWqmWltmCnxQnasBPCJSRBQ5cvl9wqvCKlsl_oDAAwFBYeypZ8Bt3CKyJAXhAy_IWimxBlhqGvsAW2d2Tf5ifYGoZxkjv-yz_zZg_0KQEf-fzi2P_KrE/s3600/Custom%20Mockup.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2572" data-original-width="3600" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0ShN9GuC63VWHn2P13mMsXsytO1zCVNKYH-ILdFkQvg1eK6BoEMgc63dPggI5PKPyWMcNwiSWqmWltmCnxQnasBPCJSRBQ5cvl9wqvCKlsl_oDAAwFBYeypZ8Bt3CKyJAXhAy_IWimxBlhqGvsAW2d2Tf5ifYGoZxkjv-yz_zZg_0KQEf-fzi2P_KrE/w640-h458/Custom%20Mockup.jpg" width="640" /></a></u></b></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; text-indent: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><b><u><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> SYNOPSIS</span></span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">John Thornton just wants to settle down by the fire after a long week at Marlborough Mills. However, when he enters his drawing room, the master is horrified to find that far from being alone, he is beset by the company of three guileful antagonists, each one intent on trapping him with her feminine charms, claiming this eligible bachelor for her husband. Forced to ward off North and South’s Ann Latimer, Pride and Prejudice’s Caroline Bingley and Jane Eyre’s Blanche Ingram, John must use his wit and wiles to evade the flirtatious enchantments of these three figurative witches of Milton. But just as he thinks he has eluded their womanly spells, they begin to sharpen their claws and vilify a certain young lady whom John cherishes in his broken heart, and that, our literary hero will not stand for.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span style="background-color: white; text-indent: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><b>N.B. 100% of the lifetime royalties are being given by the author to Gaskell's House, Jane Autsen's House and the Bronte Parsonage </b></i></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit; text-indent: 0px;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left; text-indent: 5.65pt;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Calibri Light",sans-serif" lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> </span></p> Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-88123912868687826602024-03-01T08:30:00.001+01:002024-03-01T08:30:00.133+01:00SHE PLAYED AND SANG, JANE AUSTEN AND MUSIC: AN INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR GILLIAN DOOLEY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9w_9zg-6y6SiWt_w4BFwoyU6n2x5rPgDT5tCGPsC0j8P0J6VtzBeOAsra3CrQUfMXbYm3xk7JDseZu5lphw2WI19yCZq0Udd4yjwiztmIMcqd-E2s4TqOLPuTAwVj2jnTKK-6cNsXUO1pyklabgea_OYHAU0usqNsY0S_jUzDnOqAvhSTJTQKXnRUrKA/s490/Screenshot%202024-02-29%20222003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="309" data-original-width="490" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9w_9zg-6y6SiWt_w4BFwoyU6n2x5rPgDT5tCGPsC0j8P0J6VtzBeOAsra3CrQUfMXbYm3xk7JDseZu5lphw2WI19yCZq0Udd4yjwiztmIMcqd-E2s4TqOLPuTAwVj2jnTKK-6cNsXUO1pyklabgea_OYHAU0usqNsY0S_jUzDnOqAvhSTJTQKXnRUrKA/w640-h404/Screenshot%202024-02-29%20222003.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Welcome, dear readers, to our new journey into a lesser-explored aspect of Jane Austen's world: her profound connection to music. In this exclusive interview, we have the pleasure of discovering Austen's musical inclinations with the esteemed author, Gillian Dooley, whose latest work, <b>"She Played and Sang: Jane Austen and Music,"</b> unveils treasurable insights Austen’s musical legacy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Gillian Dooley, an Honorary Senior Research Fellow in English at Flinders University, has dedicated years studying both Jane Austen's fiction and her passion for music. Through meticulous research and a profound understanding of Austen's world, she sheds light on a previously unexplored facet of Austen’s life.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Please, scroll down and enjoy our interview about Jane Austen and music, guided by the expertise and passion of Gillian Dooley.<span><a name='more'></a></span></div>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Hello and welcome to My
Jane Austen Book Club, Gillian. As usual, my first question for my guests is:
when and how did you first encounter Jane Austen and her work?</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;">I can’t say for sure –
it is a long time ago! I know that we were studying </span></i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;">Pride and Prejudice</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> <i>in my second or third year at
high school in Canberra, but I read so much when I was young that I’d be
surprised if that was my first encounter with Austen.<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span></i><span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: inherit;">Can you share with us
how your interest in Jane Austen’s relationship with music developed and what
inspired you to explore this aspect of her life and work?</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;">Music has always been a
big part of my life, alongside reading, so I tend to notice when music appears
in a book. I remember a discussion with my high school English teacher about
the significance of Mary and Elizabeth Bennet’s piano-playing, and when it came
to choosing a topic for my Honours thesis 25 years later, music in Austen’s
novels was the natural choice. At that time (mid-1990s) I didn’t have access to
the music collection, as I’m based in Australia and none of it was digitised,
so it wasn’t until much later, only about 17 years ago, that I started
seriously investigating the actual music she owned, with the help of the
various catalogues and recordings that had appeared by then, and curating
concerts based on the collection. And it was even more recently that I began to
bring the two strands together: a study of music in the novels combined with and
informed by the in-depth knowledge of her music collection which I have gained
by creating catalogue records for each of the individual items in the music
books for the University of Southampton Library.</span></i><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i></i></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFS2nTMWxda-1f4HuCxQaDbLf4wMBh7ObhDMYBR_JN1QkIxItkFrmW7hjUSLGGh-e3PxvCDHY-NgpFCek3ai7QR0yPd5rjuXvj_y98PPPa3OcSdNyh5laHmTc98_BfUCENtWij2MzcNLuT3chVzshTMgF1k8tToISlWCagC1CQXSUipmIpSku9h8EEZu0/s640/be84471ae0b369fd430cda4b5e45cc55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="358" data-original-width="640" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFS2nTMWxda-1f4HuCxQaDbLf4wMBh7ObhDMYBR_JN1QkIxItkFrmW7hjUSLGGh-e3PxvCDHY-NgpFCek3ai7QR0yPd5rjuXvj_y98PPPa3OcSdNyh5laHmTc98_BfUCENtWij2MzcNLuT3chVzshTMgF1k8tToISlWCagC1CQXSUipmIpSku9h8EEZu0/w640-h358/be84471ae0b369fd430cda4b5e45cc55.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></span></div><span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: inherit;"> </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>What aspect of Jane
Austen’s musical inclinations surprised you the most during your research
process?</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;">There have been a few
‘light-bulb’ moments. For some reason, I was surprised when it dawned on me
that she sang as well as played the piano – hence the title of my book, </span></i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;">She Played and Sang<i>.
In the novels, she tends to say that her character ‘plays’ a ‘Scotch Air’, for
example, but of course they are singing as well, and she was clearly a singer
as well as a pianist, as about half of her music is vocal music. She must have
been a soprano, with some of the songs set quite high in the voice. Another
surprise was the variety of characters portrayed in the songs – male and
female, of all classes – sailors, farm workers, would-be seducers – and even
some exotic figures like a ‘Hindoo Girl’, or a Venetian chimney-sweep. And I
must say that the German drinking songs were unexpected! When singing these
songs she was impersonating, or acting the part of, a wide variety of people.</i></span><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGefi_eUQzdm2GmaVEcqKxpVRsKrs5bUa1m0Ptxj9ZaVeJyVSySEpVah3gftdjZyQcrD188sQq6LLMBTSspi7vwcG2-hkYaaKInPMuJrkzS5yS9_Uu7j7BCF_UwGjvt7RqlSSiuhpm9jB6lgRLOTR-lzGpc66qOH-6pcEtYsIBeq8FWHnjectWImWCC0M/s899/2d59ce111eeb3b3d6a5c1fbd2247c3a0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="648" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGefi_eUQzdm2GmaVEcqKxpVRsKrs5bUa1m0Ptxj9ZaVeJyVSySEpVah3gftdjZyQcrD188sQq6LLMBTSspi7vwcG2-hkYaaKInPMuJrkzS5yS9_Uu7j7BCF_UwGjvt7RqlSSiuhpm9jB6lgRLOTR-lzGpc66qOH-6pcEtYsIBeq8FWHnjectWImWCC0M/w462-h640/2d59ce111eeb3b3d6a5c1fbd2247c3a0.jpg" width="462" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><i><br /></i></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: inherit;">What insights have you
uncovered regarding Jane Austen’s personal preferences and tastes in music
through your research? Are there particular genres, composers, or pieces that
she favoured?</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;">Most of the composers
were her contemporaries, as was normal in those days. The Austen Family Music
Books contain a mixture of manuscripts, in her own hand and that of several
family members across three generations, and printed music, some of which she
appears to have owned. If we look at her own manuscript music, which one could
guess was the music she particularly favoured, the composers who appeared most
often were Samuel Arnold, Thomas Arne, Stephen Storace, William Shield, Charles
Dibdin, and Michael Kelly – all except Arne still alive during her lifetime.
Many of these songs and instrumental pieces originated on the stage – in plays
or operas – which were then published with piano accompaniments, extremely
popular in those days. There are several ‘folk songs’, some quite humorous, and
more conventional art songs, as well as the exotic items mentioned above. There
are also several songs in French and a few in Italian. For the piano,
repertoire she collected included military marches, folk dances, the
ever-popular themes with variations, and sonatas. Quite a lot of her musical
choices overlap with those of other members of her family and also with other
collections of the period, but she does seem to have enjoyed songs with a
robust and direct kind of humour more than some other women of her generation
did.</span></i><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjImGUjz_gLsroQ_DsmsUrfEpU3S95_LRypyxSXVMYnlt5dfYmia9_ZzGsExoWaY08kpgfSd4xHF1WfRm8hhI-LMm04MaNlx_FAUg2-fnZoIe1axDO47TjJ89IpHUu5v8Bry-D_au0uaXeL_70whyb29fVRRtG56WSMRNl_Th2wV_0zuAzan410zNaqEB8/s449/8812575922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="304" data-original-width="449" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjImGUjz_gLsroQ_DsmsUrfEpU3S95_LRypyxSXVMYnlt5dfYmia9_ZzGsExoWaY08kpgfSd4xHF1WfRm8hhI-LMm04MaNlx_FAUg2-fnZoIe1axDO47TjJ89IpHUu5v8Bry-D_au0uaXeL_70whyb29fVRRtG56WSMRNl_Th2wV_0zuAzan410zNaqEB8/w640-h434/8812575922.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: inherit;">How do you interpret
the role of music in Jane Austen’s novels, and what insights do you believe it
offers into her characters and their stories?</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;">This is a big question!
I don’t believe that being musical in itself makes her characters better or
worse people. The musical characters can be very different from each other.
It’s more important whether they are ‘affected’ or not. Each of the musical
heroines has a different attitude and approach to music – for Marianne Dashwood
it is an indulgence, while for Elizabeth Bennet it seems more like an enjoyable
social pastime. For Emma Woodhouse it is an accomplishment that she feels
guilty for neglecting, while for Anne Elliot it is a solitary pleasure. Music
often has a role in the plot – it helps both Colonel Brandon and Edmund Bertram
to fall in love, it brings Anne and Captain Wentworth together in Bath, it
allows Frank Churchill to communicate his feelings to Jane Fairfax in secret.
It even provides an opportunity for Eleanor Dashwood to have a confidential
talk to Lucy Steele while Marianne is playing long piece on the piano in the
Middleton’s drawing room. I think music was a part of everyday life that came
into the world of her novels quite naturally. </span></i><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: inherit;"><b>How do you believe Jane
Austen’s personal involvement with music influenced her literary creations and
the portrayal of musical elements within her novels?</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;">I certainly think that
her intimate knowledge of music and what it was like to be a musician, and a
music-lover, is reflected in her novels – and it definitely shows up in her
juvenilia. I also suspect that the rhythm and cadences of her prose are
influenced by her own musicianship. One of the chapters in my book compares a
piece of vocal music that she owned with the story and rhetorical structure of </span></i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;">Sense and Sensibility<i>.
Without necessarily proposing direct influence, I suggest that some of the
features that the novel and the ballad (called ‘Colin and Lucy’) share can be
traced to origins in the language of music and the theatre.</i></span></span><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></o:p></span></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZhUrgLl-mul1krm4d0nHPOvKFxQlnpgCqpcaCl7uGu9_RYc7msu6p9hp_8TTfovEdUL-YT51G57P9jEEdi4wN7JtHn-hPNruV1oiMSwd530fuX3_hW_PsumU3jvxThUUs8KtWBvTyR8lpyqGKDK4meO_dpvjHXDuStMpZfpzwaCe9CwYH5fsVMQb0Yz4/s642/marianne-piano.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="423" data-original-width="642" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZhUrgLl-mul1krm4d0nHPOvKFxQlnpgCqpcaCl7uGu9_RYc7msu6p9hp_8TTfovEdUL-YT51G57P9jEEdi4wN7JtHn-hPNruV1oiMSwd530fuX3_hW_PsumU3jvxThUUs8KtWBvTyR8lpyqGKDK4meO_dpvjHXDuStMpZfpzwaCe9CwYH5fsVMQb0Yz4/w640-h422/marianne-piano.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></i></div><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>From your perspective,
how do you think Jane Austen’s appreciation for music contributes to her
enduring legacy as an author, particularly within the context of literary
discussions and cultural appreciation of her work?</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d; line-height: 107%;">I think that her
musicianship was part of what made her the unique individual that she was, and
like everything else about her – her wit and humanity, her love of family, her
acute insight into society and the human condition, her brilliant use of words
– contributed to her enduring legacy. Quite a few articles and several books
have been written about her knowledge of music and how it appears in her
novels. The new field of Word and Music Studies allows for musicologists and
literary scholars to bring complementary insights to musical influences in the
works of all writers and, given Austen’s prominence, it is no surprise that she
has been the subject of several studies of this kind. However, I still often
meet people who have no idea about her musical interests, and programs about
‘Jane Austen’s Music’ are often based on the music in the various screen
adaptations of her novels – very little of which has any connection with her
actual music collection. I’m hoping my book will help to change that situation.</span></i><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span><b><u><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">ABOUT THE BOOK</span></span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d;"></span></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB5VN5KJj5i_8akYFws_OjelzhRumfz0ThrjYl8NU5qeh-U7lofm4xBU8N31vnsXjpve9Eal3hNtt9LwdGQS6AHSLsaUB-roK0Q8AfaDvs4Jn4-_LvR4zPe8X45MmRgOCDd74z99ufszI4REvf9buNPkIJXZ4hhdLKQgzoI5f3mVo-afxz-zSNmibeEdY/s1500/COVER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="977" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB5VN5KJj5i_8akYFws_OjelzhRumfz0ThrjYl8NU5qeh-U7lofm4xBU8N31vnsXjpve9Eal3hNtt9LwdGQS6AHSLsaUB-roK0Q8AfaDvs4Jn4-_LvR4zPe8X45MmRgOCDd74z99ufszI4REvf9buNPkIJXZ4hhdLKQgzoI5f3mVo-afxz-zSNmibeEdY/w260-h400/COVER.jpg" width="260" /></a></u></b></div><b><u><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></u></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #0f1111;">Like her much-loved heroine Emma Woodhouse, Jane Austen ‘played and sang’. Music occupied a central role in her life, and she made brilliant use of it in her books to illuminate characters’ personalities and highlight the contrasts between them.</span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #0f1111; margin: -4px 0px 14px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;">Until recently, our knowledge of Austen’s musical inclinations was limited to the recollections of relatives who were still in their youth when she passed away. But with the digitisation of music books from her immediate family circle, a treasure trove of evidence has emerged. Delving into these books, alongside letters and other familial records, </span><span class="a-text-italic" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic !important;">She played and sang</span><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"> unveils a previously unknown facet of Austen's world.</span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #0f1111; margin: -4px 0px 14px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This insightful work not only uncovers the music closely associated with Austen, but also unravels her musical connections with family and friends, revealing the intricate ties between her fiction and the melodies she performed. With these revelations, Austen's musical legacy comes to life, granting us a deeper understanding of her artistic prowess and the influences that shaped her literary masterpieces.</span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #0f1111; margin: -4px 0px 14px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Out on March 5th, 2024</b></span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #0f1111; margin: -4px 0px 14px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/She-Played-Sang-Austen-Music/dp/1526170108">Buy it from Amazon</a></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #0d0d0d;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-37328010725260857152024-02-28T14:23:00.002+01:002024-02-28T14:32:15.501+01:00AUTHOR GUEST POST & EXCERPT: JAYNE BAMBER, A QUICK SUCCESSION OF BUSY NOTHINGS<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO0Yibi-cPsZJfg-LoMDC4gxc1teEFT-BXyLNY4ALDARWM19pXT2GODdPD_bjQV4UeeH5a-Mj6Or6c8xnImjKTQjOebH5OH00q2u0rFwGH2ZR-_LbIlUPAwS103HcbIoq6LJ1hPFNPy4cr5iIs0QDqRJMbmETOvaq8GkCjgzQOGemPpAbI0qxYa9d-I0o/s2000/Final%20Cover%20QSBN.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1316" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO0Yibi-cPsZJfg-LoMDC4gxc1teEFT-BXyLNY4ALDARWM19pXT2GODdPD_bjQV4UeeH5a-Mj6Or6c8xnImjKTQjOebH5OH00q2u0rFwGH2ZR-_LbIlUPAwS103HcbIoq6LJ1hPFNPy4cr5iIs0QDqRJMbmETOvaq8GkCjgzQOGemPpAbI0qxYa9d-I0o/w422-h640/Final%20Cover%20QSBN.png" width="422" /></span></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><i><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Today, we are thrilled to host author Jayne Bamber as our esteemed guest blogger. Jayne is here to present her latest release, a delightful fusion where the worlds of Pride & Prejudice and Mansfield Park collide. In her new work, titled A Quick Succession of Busy Nothings the Bertrams and Crawfords find themselves entangled in the bustling village of Meryton. The Bertram family faces upheaval, while the Crawfords seek new adventures. Amidst the backdrop of matchmaking schemes and societal intrigue, Jayne weaves a narrative that promises to enthrall readers of Austen-inspired fiction.We're privileged to offer you an exclusive excerpt from the book, so scroll down as Jayne Bamber shares a glimpse into her intriguing new story. MGxx</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><i><span><a name='more'></a></span></i></div></i><b><u>AUTHOR GUEST POST</u></b><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Its wonderful to be back at My Jane Austen Book
Club! I am so excited to share another excerpt from my new release, <i><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Quick-Succession-Busy-Nothings-ebook/dp/B0CW18SFQ7?ref_=ast_author_mpb">A QuickSuccession of Busy Nothings</a></b></i> which blends the worlds of <i>Pride &
Prejudice</i> and <i>Mansfield Park</i>.<i> <o:p></o:p></i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I tend to have a soft spot for Austen villains –
I’ve managed to reform Caroline, Lady Catherine, and even Wickham in previous
novels. And what delightful villains to enjoy in <i>Mansfield Park! </i>I
imagine Mary Crawford as a sort of evil twin of Elizabeth Bennet. She has the
same sense of humor and charm, she is likeable and even loveable among her
friends, and she has strong convictions. It was no great stretch to imagine the
two as cousins, exchanging irreverent repartee.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: 36pt;">The two have very different views of marriage,
however. While Lizzy’s mother is obsessed with it, canon Lizzy is not playing
the game as so many young ladies are. She refuses multiple proposals, recognizes
that Wickham is not a viable prospect, and laughs off Charlotte’s advice for
securing a husband. She is too busy being authentically herself to care if she
is attracting a mate, which in turn happens to attract a splendidly eligible
gentleman – and still she holds to her ideals of what love should be.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mary, on the other hand, is playing the game
with everything she’s got. She wields the same sparkling wit as Elizabeth, but
with the intention of using her arts and allurements to her advantage at every
turn. To her, marriage is about status and security, and after all her maneuvering,
she is duly rewarded by falling for a man whose prospects are far less than she
desires. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In <i>A Quick Succession of Busy Nothings</i>,
Mary is shown to have her reasons for being so mercenary, and her scheming is a
flaw she wishes to overcome after witnessing the same behavior in Lady Susan
Vernon, whom I have reimagined as Mr. and Miss Bingley’s aunt. Today I am
sharing an excerpt of Mary’s first reaction to Lady Susan at Bingley’s London
home just before they all depart for Meryton, where the Bertrams have taken
residence at Purvis Lodge near Longbourn…. Enjoy reading!</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: right; text-indent: 36pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><b>JAYNE BAMBER</b></i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center; text-indent: 36pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8cQ_tYcRtjjw7rFGEO0yL_U5PM6DKKVCBWfM9-05vAJ55-tiQmcdsR14fC4OpzSiuVekawGmAe2RxuYknbC6jk4zlVNlYm2-ylpZa3N2aXXeRMTzlA1Wi3Yomz9JEI-23jC0kjM2SOWI0J8WyzNY_XN30H-ZCLqboaxyI56XBeEgtRQYBnkSlju67VQ/s1874/IMG%201.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1085" data-original-width="1874" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8cQ_tYcRtjjw7rFGEO0yL_U5PM6DKKVCBWfM9-05vAJ55-tiQmcdsR14fC4OpzSiuVekawGmAe2RxuYknbC6jk4zlVNlYm2-ylpZa3N2aXXeRMTzlA1Wi3Yomz9JEI-23jC0kjM2SOWI0J8WyzNY_XN30H-ZCLqboaxyI56XBeEgtRQYBnkSlju67VQ/w640-h370/IMG%201.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><b><u>READ AN EXCERPT</u></b><br /></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="text-indent: 36pt;">Lady Susan Vernon was already holding court in
the drawing room. She had all the appearance of a woman who must have been
pretty at sixteen and even prettier ten years later; twenty years had been
kinder still, for her radiant beauty was augmented by the poise of confidence
and experience. The lady was seated in a most becoming pose between her niece
and nephew, clasping hands with each of them as she spoke with two other
gentlemen seated opposite.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">Mary stopped in the corridor and Henry halted
beside her. She made a subtle gesture in the turning of her head toward the man
beside Mr. Darcy. She had seen him the day before, departing Mr. Bingley’s
house just as she had returned from calling on her friend Mrs. Fraser; knowing
Henry to have been within the house at the time, she expected him to relay
something useful about the almost-handsome stranger clad all in black.</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">“That is Richard Fitzwilliam, the second son of
the earl of Matlock, and Darcy’s favorite cousin,” Henry said, keeping his
voice low enough that they would not be heard. “He is a recent widower – she
was the heiress to an estate that he has not the fortune to fix up – I
understand it was long mismanaged by his mother-in-law. I should think him
easily purchased with a dowry like yours, if you take a fancy to him, though I
suspect Darcy invited him to Netherfield with us for the sake of diverting Miss
Bingley’s <i>other interests.</i>”</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">Mary instantly supposed it best to allow Miss
Bingley some distraction, if indeed she could be detached from her ambition to
become the next mistress of Pemberley. That would suit Mary’s purposes far
better, for she had yet to decide whether Mr. Bingley or Mr. Darcy would please
her best, and she suspected Miss Bingley might present an obstacle either
way. </span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">“A sad widower will do for a tradesman’s
daughter who has seen a few seasons pass,” Mary whispered. “But he is too
dreary to be handsome.”</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">“That he is,” Henry agreed. “I understand his
mother-in-law is something of a gorgon; he has fled to London and allowed her
to haunt the house he has inherited.” Henry made a droll face, as if he might
say more, but his attention had been captured by laughter at the end of the
corridor; Lady Susan had said something to amuse the whole room.</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">After taking a few steps toward the drawing
room, Henry snapped his head back to Mary, who had warily pursued him. “I have heard
Lady Susan possesses a sort of captivating deceit – it shall be most amusing to
detect it,” he said, all innocence.</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">“You worry me, dear brother,” Mary gasped.</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">They had drifted near enough the drawing room by
now that Lady Susan became aware of them and looked in their direction with an
amiable expression. “What a pleasing fraternal pose,” she said warmly. “I hope
I shall discover you to be the Crawfords of whom I have heard such praise.” She
extended a beckoning hand to them, and Henry was drawn in at once. </span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">“This is Mr. Henry Crawford of Everingham in
Norfolk, and his sister Miss Mary Crawford,” Bingley said. “Allow me to present
my aunt, Lady Susan Vernon.”</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">Henry offered her a very gallant bow, his
fascination instantly overshadowing Mary’s presence at his side. “Enchanted,”
he said. “I have heard much of you.”</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">The lady appeared astonished at his statement.
“From my niece and nephew, do you mean? I am sure I cannot imagine there should
be anything of note to be said of a widow such as myself – I have exchanged one
happy situation of quiet country life for the prospect of another, as dear
Charlie has been so kind as to invite me to travel with you all to
Hertfordshire.”</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">“Delightful,” Henry replied. </span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">“I cannot say what delights I could have any
right to expect,” she said, fluttering her lashes in a very demure affectation.
“I understand my other niece Mrs. Hurst is not well enough to travel at
present, poor creature, and so in her stead I have offered my assistance as a
chaperone and hostess for my nephew.”</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">Mary observed a fleeting look of jealous
mortification on Miss Bingley’s face; she seemed to feel Mary’s gaze and looked
that way. For a minute the two women shared a look that conveyed their mutual
apprehension, but Miss Bingley did not allow their mutual understanding to
linger. She turned away, chin up, and resumed her haughty indifference. </span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">Lady Susan was still commanding the attention of
the rest of the party. “How proud your parents would have been,” she said to
Mr. Bingley, though Henry remained her first object. “I know my poor late
sister would have been delighted to see Charlie managing an estate, even a
rented one. In this respect, Mr. Crawford, you may imagine what pleasure I
feel, but beyond this – of course, I am pleased that my nephew has such amiable
friends, and I am grateful to have had such a warm and welcoming reception….
But beyond this, I beg you not attribute any motives to me – certainly the
frivolities of youth can hold little appeal when contrasted with the wholesome
coziness of an intimate family gathering.”</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">Mary was nearly moved to respect the cunning
creature’s talent for pretty falsehoods. She endured a great many of them
throughout dinner as Lady Susan lamented the antics of her intractable young
daughter, the devastating loss of her much older husband, and the many
cruelties and slights of his relations. For her own family she was heavy with
syrupy praise, and spoke at length of her humble gratification at the prospect
of such a happy and rustic reunion.</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">It was no surprise to Mary that Mr. Bingley
should be taken in by his relation, for he was of an open and artless
disposition – and of course, he had been accustomed, as the brother of such a
sister, to hearing every manner of disingenuous mendacity. Neither was it a
great shock that Henry seemed ready to revise his previous bias against the
lady – it was all too predictable, albeit disappointing. Mary had cherished
some particular hopes for her brother as they made ready to visit Hertfordshire
– these plans pertained especially to her eldest cousin, for Henry had always
admired her, and gentle Jane would undoubtedly suit him far better than the
type of woman that usually attracted Henry’s notice.</span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">It was disappointing, but not surprising to Mary
that her brother should succumb so easily to Lady Susan’s arts and allurements,
especially after his interest in Maria Bertram at Mansfield Park. His game
there had been transparent enough, and might have ended in disaster if they had
not taken their leave when they did. Lady Susan’s abilities were considerable;
she was far more formidable than the former Miss Bertram. And like the new Mrs.
Rushworth, Lady Susan might hold Henry in her thrall for as long as she chose
it – in other words, until a safer choice could be made. </span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">Mary had no desire to face such a challenge. It
would be complicated enough selecting the superior prospect between Mr. Darcy
and Mr. Bingley while residing in the vicinity of Edmund Bertram. Certainly she
would not be tempted to yield her position regarding the latter, and his
unpalatable choice of vocation. She wished no further encumbrance as she
assessed the gentlemen of her party, for Mr. Bingley’s engaging manners were
just what she liked, even if his wit was not as quick as her own, while the
taciturn Mr. Darcy’s fortune and connections could not be discounted solely
because of his dour disposition, which might be improved by a lively and witty
wife. </span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO8AEGv_b8vdJmI1M_2WfOlmscUQ-igESkJGevlL_rvzIYN0AgXyfdvufngirqK5Frsp8Zs1MsKE7dPywtDJkT8ym7PRUvUSAUeMnXt7JHGPMwRAhpZhsUx4mU2fuWR925LWdw7EtkVi1EaLOXxct5xaGyv9_aP3DdM0Bn-XEwlc1SCgjMOVbHk2y4_PE/s300/IMG%202.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="300" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO8AEGv_b8vdJmI1M_2WfOlmscUQ-igESkJGevlL_rvzIYN0AgXyfdvufngirqK5Frsp8Zs1MsKE7dPywtDJkT8ym7PRUvUSAUeMnXt7JHGPMwRAhpZhsUx4mU2fuWR925LWdw7EtkVi1EaLOXxct5xaGyv9_aP3DdM0Bn-XEwlc1SCgjMOVbHk2y4_PE/w640-h480/IMG%202.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"><br /></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">Such was the turn of Mary’s mind for the
remainder of the evening. Lady Susan continued to discreetly direct her allure
toward Henry while maintaining the illusion of a virtuous widow. Mary was
obliged to divert so great a share of her attention to preventing her brother
from making a ninny of himself that she was unable to exert her full powers of
pleasing on her quarry. </span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">Knowing she could not carry on so feebly once
she arrived in a county where she had so many pretty cousins, Mary resolved she
must leave Henry to his own devices and hope for the best – she might implore
Jane or Elizabeth to detach him from the notorious minx. For herself, she was
most determined to induce Mr. Bingley to show her a degree of preference beyond
the eager affability he bestowed upon all, and to somehow manage to tempt Mr.
Darcy out of his perpetual state of stony silence. She would have him smiling,
and Mr. Bingley fairly drooling – and Edmund Bertram would certainly repine his
wretched decision to take orders. </span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">She retired that evening with the hard-won
satisfaction of having privately convinced herself, through the acute observation
of her companions, that she was quite capable of out-maneuvering the combined
efforts of every female to be found at Netherfield, Longbourn, and Purvis
Lodge. Just for good measure, she reminded Henry to have her harp sent on to
Netherfield in all haste.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="text-align: center;"> ***</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><b style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: 36pt;"><u>ABOUT THE BOOK</u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 36pt;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-indent: 0.5in;">The worlds of </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-indent: 0.5in;">Pride & Prejudice</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-indent: 0.5in;">and</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-indent: 0.5in;">Mansfield Park</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-indent: 0.5in;">collide when the Bertrams and Crawfords come to Meryton….</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Bertram family of Mansfield Park is forced to retrench and retreat to Purvis Lodge when the baronet’s heir, Tom Bertram, bankrupts the family with his extravagant spending and expensive debauchery. Oblivious to their ruin, their new neighbor Mrs. Bennet finds an agreeable friend in the indolent Lady Bertram, and hastily forms designs on the two Bertram sons for her daughters.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mary and Henry Crawford leave Mansfield Parsonage for the Mayfair home of their friend Charles Bingley, and soon convince him to rent Netherfield Park and travel there with a large party of friends as well as his wily, widowed aunt, Lady Susan Vernon. Once again, Mrs. Bennet is overjoyed at the influx of eligible bachelors for her girls. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Jane and Elizabeth Bennet are delighted to be reunited with their Crawford cousins, who shall in turn be reunited with the Bertrams. The bonds of the two eldest Bennet daughters and their cousins Mary and Henry Crawford are put to the test over the course of a summer filled with more fine society than Meryton has ever seen!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mrs. Bennet has it all planned out, but hers are not the only matchmaking maneuvers being made in Meryton - the matrimony-obsessed matron has met her match in Lady Susan Vernon, a masterful manipulator who is infinitely Mrs. Bennet’s superior in subtlety, and who brings out the schemer in Mary Crawford. Even Mr. Bennet is tempted to a little light trickery of his own when Mr. Collins comes to town.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fitzwilliam Darcy wishes only to lift the spirits of his broken-hearted sister Georgiana and his bereaved cousin Richard, and in his efforts to cheer them he becomes embroiled in schemes, rescues, and is even compelled to participate in a theatrical production because it pleases the ones he loves - including the bewitching Elizabeth Bennet. Conflicting desires not only consume his mind, but begin to surround him as his companions at Netherfield all form opposing plans of their own, which threaten to keep any of them from a clear path to Happily Ever After….</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <u>ABOUT THE AUTHOR</u></span></b></o:p></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 14px; padding: 0px 0px 12px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Jayne Bamber is a life-long Austen fan, and a total sucker for costume dramas. Jayne read her first Austen variation as a teenager and has spent more than a decade devouring as many of them as she can. This of course has led her to the ultimate conclusion of her addiction, writing one herself. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: -4px 0px 0px; padding: 0px 0px 12px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Jayne’s favorite Austen work is Sense and Sensibility, though Sanditon is a strong second. Despite her love for Pride and Prejudice, Jayne realizes that she is no Lizzy Bennet, and is in fact growing up to be Mrs. Bennet more and more each day.</span></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-4200314291737304852024-02-20T08:06:00.003+01:002024-02-20T15:29:19.522+01:00TALKING JANE AUSTEN WITH ... AUTHOR CAROLINE MALCOM-BOULTON!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhySxoK5n7bVQWddYw2i9RBlxLyoTXcXHkEClZ5WRg3rGDGDNfzLKde7C7ATe_mkSZL8tepR36-uHDWt7diNc2HCIgpdxinFWiU-mxafaNwzC0b-0W_gkbmZK0fLb7_TVDnRJyaxXRnt-EZu7Fj5mWFjKdRu_w-43MoB_rJJa4old0UstFxLVv_y67qAAY/s3300/Book%20Release%20banner.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1999" data-original-width="3300" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhySxoK5n7bVQWddYw2i9RBlxLyoTXcXHkEClZ5WRg3rGDGDNfzLKde7C7ATe_mkSZL8tepR36-uHDWt7diNc2HCIgpdxinFWiU-mxafaNwzC0b-0W_gkbmZK0fLb7_TVDnRJyaxXRnt-EZu7Fj5mWFjKdRu_w-43MoB_rJJa4old0UstFxLVv_y67qAAY/w640-h388/Book%20Release%20banner.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">A Unique Crossover</span></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><b>Caroline Malcom-Boulton</b> is the author of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Three Witches of Milton, </b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a unique crossover novella which unites and
explores elements from three of my absolute best favourite classic novels:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Elizabeth Gaskell’s <u>North and South</u>,
Jane Austen’s <u>Pride and Prejudice</u> and Charlotte Brontë’s <u>Jane Eyre</u>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Playing
with quotes from these three inspirational novels and their iconic screenplays,
Caroline Malcom-Boulton blends the English classics together, infusing them
with an original plot, all so that we might explore the intriguing relationship
of similarities between their characters and themes.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I invited<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>lovely Caroline to join me at <b>My Jane Austen Book Club</b> to talk Jane Austen
and also to tell us more about her new release.</span> </p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>HERE’S MY INTERVIEW<span></span></u></b></p><a name='more'></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><o:p></o:p></u></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="text-indent: -18pt;">Hello
Caroline and thank you for being my guest at My Jane Austen Book Club today! My
first question for you is, when was your first encounter with Austen and her
work and what was it like?</b></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><span lang="EN-GB"> <i>Hello, Maria Grazia, and thank you for having me. Oh, yikes, that takes me
back, let me see if I can remember… Well, to begin with, I was very lucky to be
brought up in a family that admired the classics and both read and watched them
faithfully, so Austen’s world was very much part of my world from day one.</i></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="text-indent: -18pt;"><b>How
much Austen is there in your novella, The Three Witches of Milton?</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span><i><span lang="EN-GB">There is a fair bit. While the story is mainly about North and South and
the love between Thornton and Margaret, it is also about Pride and Prejudice
and Jane Eyre. The book incorporates quotes from all three novels as well as
other works by Austen. I have shown these quotes in italics to help distinguish
them from my own words, and, hopefully, for anyone reading it who has not read
the original novels, becoming acquainted with these exceptional passages of
prose will encourage them to finally pick up a copy. Anyway, I like to think
that there is a touch of Austen throughout, as there are a few comical lines
and observations, many of which made me smile and think of her wit and wisdom.</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Your
novella unites and explores elements from three of my absolute best favourite
classic novels:</span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Elizabeth Gaskell’s
North and South, Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and Charlotte Brontë’s Jane
Eyre. Could you tell us something about it. I’m so curious!</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span><i><span lang="EN-GB">I have long since been dabbling (one of John’s least favourite words),
with the idea of writing a classical novel crossover. There are a few reasons
for wanting to do a crossover like this. The first is that I simply thought it
would be fun. I felt it would be amusing to mix up the characters, storylines
and dialogue to see what came out of it, something I hope readers find too.
However, there was perhaps a more profound reason. While the original novels
and their writers are distinct, I do feel they have strong similarities. For
instance, all the women are praiseworthy for being clever, courageous and
caring. At the same time, while the men may differ in terms of socio-economic
backgrounds and life experiences, they too are similar underneath it all. I
think Darcy, Rochester and Thornton are all sensitive men who often give the
wrong impression. They can come off as prideful, temperamental and harsh, but
they are good people at heart, men who hold themselves to a high standard, are
made vulnerable by life, and above all else, long to be loved and understood by
a good woman.</span></i></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><i></i></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0dP7ZiZVCQ4EfU3T17ipLQD50nktiwdRIFZkDvMxwU-4aBahSBiQpe-otzRtdnYZ2l7wRiUvR54JYyDaRCuR-69ZRIcmj_mphNpFuleHPgUwklA-PAkS6YfU0o3O408l1tT6BS_Z_OWUpzMJiYKt1T2ImvR4dd3MAMBXOHnMGo2H5TSXGmexiiO8dh0/s480/brandon-rickman-ss-1995.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="480" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0dP7ZiZVCQ4EfU3T17ipLQD50nktiwdRIFZkDvMxwU-4aBahSBiQpe-otzRtdnYZ2l7wRiUvR54JYyDaRCuR-69ZRIcmj_mphNpFuleHPgUwklA-PAkS6YfU0o3O408l1tT6BS_Z_OWUpzMJiYKt1T2ImvR4dd3MAMBXOHnMGo2H5TSXGmexiiO8dh0/w640-h426/brandon-rickman-ss-1995.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Alan Rickman as Colonel Brandon (1995)</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><i><br /><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></i><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="text-indent: -18pt;">The hero of your book is John
Thornton, the brooding passionate protagonist of Gaskell’s North and South. </span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Who is your favourite Austen hero,
instead?</span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p><i style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB">That is easy. While I admire most of Austen’s leading men, some more
than others, my number one hero must be <b>Colonel Brandon</b>. I think Colonel
Brandon is an exceptional man. Like Marianne, we perhaps do not appreciate him
to begin with, as he is not dashing and daring in the way that we are led to
believe giddy, girlish love should be. He is a little dull. He is a little old.
He is a little weather-beaten in every sense of the word. And yet, despite
that, he is a man of considerable empathy, intelligence, selflessness and
integrity. Again, like Marianne, we grow to respect him, and in time, fall in
love with him. He may not sweep us off our feet, but we see him for what he is,
and that is dependable and devoted, two qualities which make for steadfast
love.</span></i> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZKkw965bCJeg1aTaImgPu2SmPu0cP1_3AUfhj9T2aAFSmAQ5Z57sgItmaouVUFdUfpGdem8zFZF3yXeQfcHrRXEizEkZMM6eIWGcP1LQ0eqqvy_B0K_CeIsabcbNiUrpypBuutIP2vb3WpwuJSiY2AMLXNoMopZjHMoqwBPrfqB9mFwI5vwCOoDqaRM/s1024/North-and-South-north-and-south-32024163-1280-720-1024x576.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1024" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZKkw965bCJeg1aTaImgPu2SmPu0cP1_3AUfhj9T2aAFSmAQ5Z57sgItmaouVUFdUfpGdem8zFZF3yXeQfcHrRXEizEkZMM6eIWGcP1LQ0eqqvy_B0K_CeIsabcbNiUrpypBuutIP2vb3WpwuJSiY2AMLXNoMopZjHMoqwBPrfqB9mFwI5vwCOoDqaRM/w640-h360/North-and-South-north-and-south-32024163-1280-720-1024x576.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Richard Armitage as John Thornton (2004)</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;">Does he share any personality traits
with Mr Thornton? </span><span style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"> <i> </i></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i><i><span lang="EN-GB">I think Brandon and Thornton share many personality traits, and I
believe they could have been firm friends if they had ever met. They are both
private. They are both men of staunch honour. They both do what they can to
support the friends and family of their beloved in times of need. And perhaps,
most of all, they are not showy men. They do not make a display of their
affections, they do not draw attention to their goodness, but instead, offer up
their unconditional friendship and faithfulness, then simply step back and take
no credit, they ask no thanks. In short, they are men who love quietly, yet
sincerely.</span></i></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="text-indent: -18pt;"><b>Which
is your favourite Austen novel? Do you
like re-reading it?</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><b> </b></o:p></span><i><span lang="EN-GB">I am afraid I have a rather
unconventional and unpopular answer here, and instead of saying Pride and
Prejudice, I will say Emma.</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Emma is an undervalued novel, in my
opinion, and I can see why. She is not the most endearing of Austen’s heroines.
Emma is spoilt. She is a young woman who thinks very highly of herself, and as
Knightley points out, she treats those around her like dolls that she can pick
up and put down to play with at her whim. Oh, my! I am not doing dear Emma any
favours here, am I?<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">But the thing is, I actually find
Emma thoroughly refreshing. For one, books such as those by Austen provide us
with valuable insight into the life and love of women of certain classes at the
time, and while these accounts are scarce in the literature, there is an even
greater shortage of stories about women like Emma. We need to read about women
who were financially secure, who did not need to be governed by the thought of
finding a husband, and who were at the pinnacle of their little social sphere.
And, most crucially, I think Emma is a very real person. Emma’s faults are
many, and most of them can be jotted down to a life of pander and privilege, a
combination that readers quite rightly struggle to sympathise with, but she is
just a young woman discovering who she is, and, in the end, she grows into be a
caring and accepting person.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><span lang="EN-GB" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><b>Which
Austen heroine can you relate to the most? Why?</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><b> </b></o:p></span><i><span lang="EN-GB">Ooh, that is a hard one. I think
I am a mix of Marianne and Elinor Dashwood, strange, I know, given how unlike
each other they are. Sense and Sensibility has always been my second favourite
novel, and that is partly because I have been able to identify with both
sisters. When I was younger, I was a lot like the early Marianne. I saw the
world in black and white, I was passionate, and I felt injustice deeply. I
could also be quick to form opinions, judgmental of others, and not afraid to
speak my mind, always assuming I knew best. A typical teenager. But like
Marianne, as I grew up, I began to see that the world was much greyer, and far
from being an ugly shade, it was comforting, a reassuring reminder that clarity
often comes from a place of obscurity. Now I find that I am much more
level-headed, like Elinor, and I often think before I speak, being more careful
to listen and take stock of my emotions before I act. However, as I think
Austen shows us, a person like that does not feel any less, but they are simply
more sensible about their sensibilities. </span></i></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="text-indent: -18pt;"><b>Caroline
Bingley is one of your <i>witches. </i>Why
did you choose her from the whole Austen
universe?</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span><i><span lang="EN-GB">There are a few reasons why I wanted to include Caroline. For a start,
there has always been a bit of a joke in the family about her, as she and I
share the same name, so I really wanted to give her a cameo in my work. Another
reason is that Caroline is synonymous as a female antagonist in the Austen
universe. She is seen as the ultimate (insert bad word of your choice here)
when it comes to women. Lastly, she has some cracking lines! Austen must have
had a lot of fun writing Caroline Bingley, as countless one-sentence remarks
are so cutting, that I am surprised the author did not do herself injury with
her pen. And it is because of this that she was chosen. The whole plot of this
novella is to have these three women ridicule Margaret Hale, the woman they
know John Thornton loves, so who better to call upon than the very woman who
knows best how to disparage her love rival with a little pointed dialogue?</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">I
love watching every Austen adaptation I can find. I have fun comparing and
contrasting the different versions we have. What’s your relationship with
screen adaptations of books? Are you very demanding and often disappointed? </span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"> </span></b></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i><i><span lang="EN-GB">Austen is very personal and very precious to all who love her. I have
never come across another author whom people get so possessive over, talking about
her and her work as if they know her intimately and can read her mind. They
tell us what she would like and not like with such certainty, that one would
think them the undisputed authority on all things Austen. However, the truth is
that books are fluid texts, and so, they are open to interpretation, and as
such, each adaptation will not only bring something new to the table and shed
new light on her works but they will, inevitably, never succeed in pleasing
everybody.</span></i></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span lang="EN-GB">As a creative person, I applaud anyone with the intelligence, initiative
and imagination to pull them off. In the end, if I do not like an adaptation, I
do not mark it down as bad or not Austen-like, but rather, I simply accept that
it was not for me, leave it be, but close by asking in what ways it did do well
because there is always something to commend if one looks past our own pride
and prejudice.</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><b>What’s your best favourite screen adaptation
of a classic? Why?</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf5Ytopng3l4k0AvKq4Y_0262mOPwkuV13fRFmLnGVprwHPbvsBGrD2OHUeilBI9TQq40Glu6L4WiWejqCszAM2U6HoqtClpJUOO97lfHm73a4Vihvx_spPBD2Vdc4reMCvuoHLx5ARUqwb9eb0qGzzehwj9unF9XsR_-eXmEKmpwCTF2GRSr6HZYc8Rc/s4368/bbc%20emma%201.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2912" data-original-width="4368" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf5Ytopng3l4k0AvKq4Y_0262mOPwkuV13fRFmLnGVprwHPbvsBGrD2OHUeilBI9TQq40Glu6L4WiWejqCszAM2U6HoqtClpJUOO97lfHm73a4Vihvx_spPBD2Vdc4reMCvuoHLx5ARUqwb9eb0qGzzehwj9unF9XsR_-eXmEKmpwCTF2GRSr6HZYc8Rc/w640-h426/bbc%20emma%201.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Romola Garai as Emma Woodhouse (2009)</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><i><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></i><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span lang="EN-GB">I have so many that I like, but I must say that I am a big fan of the
<b>2009 Emma</b>, with the 2008 Sense and Sensibility being a close second. I am a
firm believer that classic novels are best told in a series, and not as a film.
Do not get me wrong, I understand the merit of making them into films. They can
be shown in the cinema, giving them bigger hype and allowing them to reach a
wider audience, filmmakers can make more money, and, of course, down the line,
they are much more convenient for fans to watch. However, to give the full
magnitude of the stories justice, then they need the time a series can offer to
unfold fully, so that is maybe why I like these two adaptations so much.</span></i></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;">What would you miss the most if you
ended up travelling back to Jane Austen’s era? </span><span style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;">What would you be excited
to try, instead?</span></b></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span lang="EN-GB">Well, I think as a woman, I am obligated to say that I would miss the
level of equality we know today. For all our romancing about Jane Austen’s
period, I imagine our dear heroes, as wonderful as they may be on paper, would
have had the odd sexist thought in real life. Other than that, I would miss
sanitation and hygiene, such as not having a shower every day. Also, can you
imagine having something as simple as a headache, and yet, not having any
medication? That would be horrible. No wonder people took to bed at the
slightest ache and pain. And lastly, while this is perhaps not the most suitable
thing to write for a post about reading and writing, I would miss films and
television a great deal. Sometimes a good old chill session with some popcorn
and Netflix is just what one needs.</span></i></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="text-indent: -18pt;"><b>How
would you recommend The Three Witches of Milton to our book-loving Janeite
friends?</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i><i><span lang="EN-GB">I have always had a
keen interest in scribbling classical crossovers, and God willing, this will
merely be the first of many. In this instance, it occurred to me that several
of our beloved (and not so loved), characters from these novels bear
considerable similarities. For instance, Darcy and Thornton, Elizabeth and
Margaret, while they may have many superficial differences when we break it
down, our heroes and heroines are profoundly similar people with similar
values. As such, I felt it would be intriguing to play with their separate
stories and dialogues and see how I could compare and contrast them in such a
way that identified with those parallels, and in this story, I hope I have
achieved that. Furthermore, the texts of all three novels are so well known,
that while they remain timeless and classic, they can also become blunted in
their power, simply because they become white noise, something we hear so often
that their meaning is perhaps not muted, but muffled. Therefore, I wanted to
give them fresh meaning by chopping and changing them to fit the environment of
new situations and scenes, showing us that these enduring lines can exist within
the confines of their novels and remain meaningful in new contexts.</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i><i><span lang="EN-GB">As Austen herself
says: “It is only a novel... or, in
short, only some work in which the greatest powers of the mind are displayed,
in which the most thorough knowledge of human nature, the happiest delineation
of its varieties, the liveliest effusions of wit and humour, are conveyed to
the world in the best-chosen language.”</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b><u><span lang="EN-GB">ABOUT THE
BOOK: SYNOPSIS</span></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">John Thornton just wants to settle down by the
fire after a long week at Marlborough Mills. However, when he enters his
drawing room, the master is horrified to find that far from being alone, he is
beset by the company of three guileful antagonists, each one intent on trapping
him with her feminine charms, claiming this eligible bachelor for her husband.
Forced to ward off North and South’s Ann Latimer, Pride and Prejudice’s
Caroline Bingley and Jane Eyre’s Blanche Ingram, John must use his wit and
wiles to evade the flirtatious enchantments of these three figurative witches
of Milton. But just as he thinks he has eluded their womanly spells, they begin
to sharpen their claws and vilify a certain young lady whom John cherishes in
his broken heart, and that, our literary hero will not stand for.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Three-Witches-Milton-Crossover-Criss-Cross-Crossovers-ebook/dp/B0CVJ8PD1D/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2T682V2O5OGWN&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.jC6NBgE0vxLDOwXOGb1vNeoVK9kM2cj4UgHPVNdKqo-reCBDvniIyS4Kf_1Ky5WLj1bZ6SD6p9RoSoEp8OywgwGYvbmcwhjNd_n0lfHsl504R4gEgEamwgNdYPpLItP9epXTHSmDYpPzdEt73SfVqP9v0lhAlbfSoCf5UY-BeSe3jcZKd5XTqE5ygn5fCpl7uayiGRcy09sOY3pRvK5Sz9-NfIblaqvf8POOXgpWh3E.KXjO8KqbwmgeC4fynPA6YdcFhe7FvjhS8pJlqZRlgVY&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+three+witches+of+milton&qid=1707930135&sprefix=%2Caps%2C519&sr=8-1">PURCHASE LINK</a></span></u></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Three-Witches-Milton-Crossover-Criss-Cross-Crossovers-ebook/dp/B0CVJ8PD1D/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2T682V2O5OGWN&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.jC6NBgE0vxLDOwXOGb1vNeoVK9kM2cj4UgHPVNdKqo-reCBDvniIyS4Kf_1Ky5WLj1bZ6SD6p9RoSoEp8OywgwGYvbmcwhjNd_n0lfHsl504R4gEgEamwgNdYPpLItP9epXTHSmDYpPzdEt73SfVqP9v0lhAlbfSoCf5UY-BeSe3jcZKd5XTqE5ygn5fCpl7uayiGRcy09sOY3pRvK5Sz9-NfIblaqvf8POOXgpWh3E.KXjO8KqbwmgeC4fynPA6YdcFhe7FvjhS8pJlqZRlgVY&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+three+witches+of+milton&qid=1707930135&sprefix=%2Caps%2C519&sr=8-1"></a></span></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3cNWvAe3QRtCsv9TgBaqd1W2c4hq7GkpkYuc-iI8zVUgT-EM5zPLZb8RU8O-_qQzVOKP5Q3gv07oTUh9y5UGebjGUxIJlCRV1rx0b3LhjnAH3blS3ACDJfDaII-K55wMdGKALPP90mBq5UU8_x0e9LtHvCm1JrtSyz9YYqv1GIdro72kMrtGwlbOfhCk/s2344/Caroline%20Malcolm-Boulton_ebook%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2344" data-original-width="1519" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3cNWvAe3QRtCsv9TgBaqd1W2c4hq7GkpkYuc-iI8zVUgT-EM5zPLZb8RU8O-_qQzVOKP5Q3gv07oTUh9y5UGebjGUxIJlCRV1rx0b3LhjnAH3blS3ACDJfDaII-K55wMdGKALPP90mBq5UU8_x0e9LtHvCm1JrtSyz9YYqv1GIdro72kMrtGwlbOfhCk/w259-h400/Caroline%20Malcolm-Boulton_ebook%20(1).jpg" width="259" /></a></u></b></div><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><br /><o:p></o:p></u></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br />GREETINGS FROM THE AUTHOR<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><i>Hello, I'm Caroline Malcolm-Boulton,
also known as The Scribbler CMB. Born in 1993, I proudly hail from Scotland,
where I reside with my husband and our cherished daughter. </i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span lang="FR" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: FR; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Contact details<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="FR" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: FR; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Email: caroline.malcolmboultonmedia@gmail.com<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">X (Formerly Twitter): @TheScribblerCMB<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Facebook Arts Page:</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"> </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">@TheScribblerCMBArts<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Facebook Writing Page:
@TheScribblerCMBWriter<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Instagram: @TheScribblerCMB
<o:p></o:p></span></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-10386506592581797552024-02-10T09:00:00.004+01:002024-02-10T09:00:00.318+01:00 NO LESS THAN ANY OTHER BY MJ STRATTON: EXCERPT & GIVEAWAY. <p> </p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4uyUGiXdAfJNQpqNv0gCQ9u8F7ZMgh8sEQtPT5-qpRS0LJllbg3T0yXeK3BkGOgYSVReL_tJdQ05y_bpYpWoqz74O3-JHPSC-LQ9OzJhJ0_mCCxptP3g26fbrfTljDz3blmpawdGEU3XikLlwgbdrtLEjTCNjgnHFKiTKZQZIuLt62epVqJOW4Kv5goQ/s1000/No%20Less%20Than%20Any%20Other%20Cover%20(625%20x%201000%20px).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="625" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4uyUGiXdAfJNQpqNv0gCQ9u8F7ZMgh8sEQtPT5-qpRS0LJllbg3T0yXeK3BkGOgYSVReL_tJdQ05y_bpYpWoqz74O3-JHPSC-LQ9OzJhJ0_mCCxptP3g26fbrfTljDz3blmpawdGEU3XikLlwgbdrtLEjTCNjgnHFKiTKZQZIuLt62epVqJOW4Kv5goQ/w400-h640/No%20Less%20Than%20Any%20Other%20Cover%20(625%20x%201000%20px).jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Dear readers,</span><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It is with great pleasure that I introduce to you a brand new Pride and Prejudice variation, <b>"No Less Than Any Other,"</b> authored by MJ Stratton. This delightful novel presents an intriguing twist on the classic tale we all know and love. Are you ready to scroll down and discover more?<span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">About the Book</span></u></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Elizabeth Bennet is not the son and heir her mother wished, much to Mrs. Bennet’s despair. But all was not lost, for soon after her second daughter’s birth, Mrs. Bennet delivered a son. Tom Bennet, born just minutes after his sister, was their family’s savior from the moment he took his first breath.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tom Bennet's peculiar nature soon sets him apart from others around him. His striking intelligence, key in aiding his family, paired with his many oddities, leaves those around him with differing opinions. None, though, are more dedicated to his well-being than his twin sister Elizabeth.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As the twins approach their majority, Mrs. Bennet grows frantic, determined that her girls must marry wealthy, eligible men to secure their future. However, the arrival of eligible suitors at Netherfield Park brings forth challenges and unexpected turns.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>"No Less Than Any Other"</b> is a sweet and clean Pride and Prejudice variation that promises an engaging journey through love, family, and societal expectations.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">About the Author</span></u></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;"><u></u></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_egMeWlvnzPjA_Oil27qZ-szEVRb6eqUna6BscLo1zXndrpgZ_cdMwC8RG1LWTP4K3cxzNY5ka2huA-vFQDN3ZYZT4-YUvKbtXZ4n1HkjoZfn5rrQXiWBsbegrZvF_SGW-etVsjgeAFUNo7WTR99-PJpyCKftjh4gdhg4VhhgzwykQiJuNECnxh401sc/s441/leah%20shoulder%20picture.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="354" data-original-width="441" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_egMeWlvnzPjA_Oil27qZ-szEVRb6eqUna6BscLo1zXndrpgZ_cdMwC8RG1LWTP4K3cxzNY5ka2huA-vFQDN3ZYZT4-YUvKbtXZ4n1HkjoZfn5rrQXiWBsbegrZvF_SGW-etVsjgeAFUNo7WTR99-PJpyCKftjh4gdhg4VhhgzwykQiJuNECnxh401sc/w400-h321/leah%20shoulder%20picture.jpg" width="400" /></a></u></div><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>MJ Stratton</b> is a devoted admirer of Jane Austen and her works, having been introduced to "Pride and Prejudice" by a beloved aunt at the age of sixteen. Her passion for Austenesque fiction led her to embark on her own writing journey, which began in 2022. MJ balances her roles as a wife and mother with her love for writing, gardening, sewing, and various other hobbies. She resides with her husband and four children in the quaint, rural town where she grew up.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Read an Excerpt</span></u></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></p><div style="text-align: right;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">May 1791</span></i></div><i><div style="text-align: right;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Longbourn, Hertfordshire</span></i></div><div style="text-align: right;"><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEA3RXpi4rPG06_QiCQXNbK-2uWsD1WkIOCpv0MO16mOqfwLcBZ9yD9xGGw-bMwUz5SImKdj6nAKGEF5uYjGXg7BLzxKt9dDI-iNUtpep5oPtB7pBXJgLdEeKk232RPX5sO9v4GLSfrjNK9mmtNf-mZqTMPImpyHeKAv3J2IBKFJGvQ_ekZ4_j8ypZrYA/s182/download.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="182" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEA3RXpi4rPG06_QiCQXNbK-2uWsD1WkIOCpv0MO16mOqfwLcBZ9yD9xGGw-bMwUz5SImKdj6nAKGEF5uYjGXg7BLzxKt9dDI-iNUtpep5oPtB7pBXJgLdEeKk232RPX5sO9v4GLSfrjNK9mmtNf-mZqTMPImpyHeKAv3J2IBKFJGvQ_ekZ4_j8ypZrYA/w200-h163/download.jpg" width="200" /></a></div></i></div></i><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Thomas Bennet paced the hallway outside his wife’s chamber, anxiety filling his heart. It was too soon. Fanny was not meant to enter her confinement for another six weeks, or so the midwife had said. Yet there she was, behind the heavy oak door, in the midst of her travails. Jane, their precious two-year-old daughter, slept in the nursery upstairs, completely oblivious to the fact that she might wake in the morning a motherless child.</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><i style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">No, Thomas scolded himself. It would not do to court disaster. Many babies were </span></i><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;">born early. Indeed, perhaps the midwife had not accurately predicted when Fanny would deliver. Mrs. Jones had commented on Fanny’s girth more than once in the last few months. Yes, that was it. Fanny was not early at all. No, she was right on time.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; text-align: left;">Another scream rent the air and Thomas raked his hands through his hair. If his beloved wife were to die… It did not bear thinking of. Fanny was strong. She would make it through this ordeal just as easily as she had Jane’s.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; text-align: left;">Resigned to a long night, Thomas shuffled off to his own chamber where a glass of port awaited him. </span><i style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;">Meanwhile, in the mistress’s chambers, Fanny Bennet stood next to her bed, clinging to the </i><i style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;">bedpost. Sweat poured down her face and she cried out again. </i></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><i style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">“It is not time to push, Mrs. Bennet,” Mrs. Jones said calmly.</span></i></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><i style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;">Oh, what do you know about it?” Fanny snapped. “You told me this child was not to </span></i><i style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;">be born until July! Well, it is not July! It is not even June. It is May!”</i></p><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background-color: transparent;">“There, there,” Mrs. Jones soothed. “These things can be hard to predict accurately.”</span></i></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;">Fanny moaned again as her belly tightened once more. She had been at this for hours </span></i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;">and she was so tired. Mrs. Jones led her to the bed where she could check her </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;">patient’s progress. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">"I believe it is time to get you to the birthing chair,” the old midwife said </span></i><i style="font-family: inherit;">cheerfully.</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fanny groaned and allowed herself to be tugged upright and led to the chair across </span></i><i style="font-family: inherit;">the room.</i><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent;">“Wait until I give you the word to push,” the midwife instructed. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">Fanny nodded tiredly. This entire experience would be over shortly. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">"Push, Mrs. Bennet!” cried the midwife. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">Fanny bore down with all her might, and a few moments later, the lusty screams of her baby filled the air. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">“It is a bonny lass, Mrs. Bennet,” Mrs. Jones cried in delight. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fanny promptly burst into tears. “Another girl?” she cried in despair. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Where is the </span></i><i style="font-family: inherit;">heir? Are you sure it is not a boy?”</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">“Quite sure,” Mrs. Jones replied brusquely.</span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fanny sobbed noisily, leaning over in the birthing chair as her body shook from </span></i><i style="font-family: inherit;">exhaustion and disappointed hopes. Mrs. Jones attempted to help her up, but Fanny shoved her weakly away.</i><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The maid was busy with the infant, who was still squalling across the room. Fanny </span></i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;">felt rather irritated at the sound; could the child not cease its wailing even </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;">for a moment?</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Come, Mrs. Bennet,” Mrs. Jones said again. “Let us get you up. The afterbirth has yet </span></i><i style="font-family: inherit;">to come.”</i><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fanny allowed herself to be raised and was rather taken aback when another pain </span></i><i style="font-family: inherit;">wracked her abdomen.</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent;">“Oh,” she moaned. “I do not remember Jane hurting this much!” </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">Mrs. Jones’s brow creased in concern. “Let us go to the bed,” she said. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">O</span></i><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">nce propped up on her pillows, Mrs. Jones examined Fanny more closely. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">“I believe there is another, Mrs. Bennet,” the woman said after moments of </span></i><i style="font-family: inherit;">agonizing silence.</i><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent;">“Another? Another what?” Fanny shrieked. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">“Another babe,” Mrs. Jones replied. “It is close. We must get you back to the chair.”</span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">"I do not think I can do it,” Fanny panted as another pain tore through her. “I am </span></i><i style="font-family: inherit;">too weak. I shall die!”</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">“Nonsense,” Mrs. Jones answered brusquely. “You are a fine, strong woman, and you shall come through this admirably.”</span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">“But what if it is another girl?” wailed Fanny, panting as she moved slowly to the </span></i><i style="font-family: inherit;">birthing chair.</i><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Then it is another girl,” Mrs. Jones snapped. “Come now, you are a grown, married </span></i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;">woman. Consider yourself blessed to be capable of bearing your husband’s </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;">children.”</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="font-family: inherit;"><span> </span><span>Fanny snapped her mouth shut. Mrs. Jones had no children of her own despite being </span></i><i style="font-family: inherit;">married for nearly twenty years. </i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="font-family: inherit;">"</i><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">Now, when I tell you, push,” Mrs. Jones instructed her. </span></i><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">Fanny steeled herself and waited. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">"</span></i><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">Push, Mrs. Bennet!” cried the midwife. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">F</span></i><i style="font-family: inherit;"><span>anny bore down again, screaming in pain. The lusty wails of a second child filled </span></i><i style="font-family: inherit;">the room, and she collapsed in exhaustion. </i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">“You have a fine, strong son, madam,” Mrs. Jones said tenderly. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">Fanny lifted her head weakly. “A son?” she sniffed. “Truly?” </span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="font-family: inherit;"><span>“Yes,” Mrs. Jones replied. “And I must say, he has the handsome looks of his parents </span></i><i style="font-family: inherit;">about him.”</i><i style="font-family: inherit;"><span> </span><span>“Twins! A boy and a girl,” Fanny sighed. The crying had ceased, and two more maids </span></i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;">appeared in the room to assist their mistress to her bed. Clean linens replaced </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;">the soiled bedclothes, and a fresh nightgown was placed upon Mrs. Bennet. </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;">Before she knew it, Fanny was propped up on pillows and her babies were placed </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;">in her arms.</span></div><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="font-family: inherit;"><span>“You hold the girl for now, Mrs. Jones,” Fanny instructed. “I wish to look upon my </span></i><span style="font-family: inherit;">son.”</span></div></i></span></span><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">Mrs. Jones took the girl child from her mother, stroking the small patch of dark
curls that adorned the top of her head. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">"</span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">I shall just inform Mr. Bennet,” she murmured.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">Fanny paid her no mind so fixed was her gaze upon her infant son.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“We are saved,” she breathed. “We are saved from the entail.” </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">Thomas Bennet stood from his chair and moved to answer the knock at the door that
stood between his chamber and his wife’s. He wrenched it open and found Mrs.
Jones, the midwife waiting. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“Is my wife…?” he asked, trailing off.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“Mrs. Bennet is well,” Mrs. Jones replied. “She is with your son.” </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“My son?” Thomas repeated stupidly. He looked down at the bundle the midwife held
in her arms.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“Yes,” Mrs. Jones said. “And here is your daughter.” She handed Mr. Bennet the bundle in her arms with little ceremony. “Your wife has given you twins, sir,” she continued. “This little miss was born first, followed by a healthy little boy.”</span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Thomas gazed adoringly at the tiny girl in his arms. “She is beautiful,</span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">” he breathed.
“Thank you, Mrs. Jones.”</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">The woman gave him a small smile. “Your wife is ready to see you,” she said by way
of reply. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">Thomas nodded and followed Mrs. Jones out of his chamber and to the mistress’s suite.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">Fanny sat in the bed, propped up on pillows, rocking another baby. Loud, demanding
screams filled the room. Fanny looked up anxiously.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">“I cannot get him to stop,” she fretted. “He will not eat. What could be wrong,
Mr. Bennet?”</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“Perhaps he needs his sister,” Thomas replied. “They have been together these many
months. Mayhap he misses her.” </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“Nonsense,” Fanny protested weakly. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“A baby cannot differentiate between such things.” She rocked the child harder as if hoping that the movement would quiet him. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“It is worth a try,” Thomas said shrugging. He climbed onto the bed next to his beloved
wife and slid his own wrapped bundle toward hers. A small hand snaked out of
the blanket in his arm, grasping for something. As soon as his daughter made
contact with her brother, the lad quieted. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“Would you look at that?” the midwife remarked. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“It is rather remarkable, is it not?” Thomas agreed. “What shall we name this
pair?”</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“Our son must be named for you, of course,” Fanny was quick to say. “Thomas Bennet. We might call him Tom or Tommy while he is young.” </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“And our daughter?” Thomas asked. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">Fanny shrugged beside him. “I do not have a preference,” she said shortly. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">Thomas blinked in surprise. “I would have thought you would wish a say in her name,” he said. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“She ought to have been another boy,” Fanny huffed. “Then we would have an heir and a spare, and Longbourn would be secure.”</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“But she is not a boy, and I am pleased to have another daughter,” Thomas replied.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“Then you may name her,” Fanny snapped. “I am tired, and I do not wish to be bothered with such trivial decisions.”</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Thomas felt a stab of hurt. How could Fanny say such a thing? Any children they had
were a blessing, boy or girl. Unwilling to distress his exhausted wife, he
kissed her brow.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">“We shall name her Elizabeth,” he told her. “For my mother.”</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">“Very well,” Fanny agreed. “Now, I wish to sleep. Elizabeth can go off to the nursery
with the wet nurse. I wish for little Tommy to stay here with me.”</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">Thomas’s eyes widened in disbelief. His wife’s delight in having an heir was
understandable but the outright disinterest she was showing toward little Elizabeth was disconcerting. Nevertheless, he nodded and climbed out of the bed. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">“I shall let you rest now,” he said, kissing her brow again. Still holding his
tiny daughter in his arms, he left the room.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Elizabeth did not go to the nursery, however. Thomas instructed a maid to bring the
cradle down and place it in a room across the hall. The wetnurse was soon installed there with Thomas’s new daughter, where she would be close at hand should Fanny need her aid with little Tommy.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">It was not long before Tommy’s wails could be heard from the mistress’s chambers
yet again. They persisted despite the wet nurse attempting to feed him. It was
not until Elizabeth was once again snuggled next to her brother that Tommy fell
into an exhausted sleep. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">The household soon learned that young Master Bennet did not like to be parted from
his twin for very long. A new cradle was constructed, specially designed to allow the two infants to sleep beside each other. Fanny was not best pleased with the arrangement; she wished to keep her son close and still seemed to have no interest in her daughter. Thomas continued to justify his wife’s behavior, believing that she would eventually bond with their second child. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">Jane was fascinated by the new additions to their household and quickly decided that
the twins were her babies. The eldest Bennet child was quite serene for a two-year-old and proved to be a great help when it came to caring for her little brother and sister.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">Fanny’s antipathy toward Elizabeth did not ease as the months passed. Thomas watched his wife with concern. It was not…normal… for a woman to have such unnatural feelings toward her child. When Thomas tried to address it, Fanny would lash out in anger and then descend into sobs. He soon learned that the subject of Elizabeth was not one to be broached with his wife. Instead, he sought to fill the gap in his child’s life that was left by her mother. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: left;">It did not help matters that the Bennet heir preferred Elizabeth’s company to anyone else’s. Tommy did not like to be
held or hugged; only Elizabeth’s touch was welcomed and sought by the little
boy.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Fanny’s disposition toward Elizabeth grew more resentful when Lizzy consistently </span><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;">progressed faster than her brother. Lizzy walked early at just seven months old while Tommy took much longer and was nearly a year and a half before he began to toddle about. L</span><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;">izzy also began speaking before the twins’ first birthday. Tommy stubbornly refused to utter even a word, and when he had yet to speak on his third birthday, Fanny’s worry for her son compounded.</span></div></i></span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><i> “What
if he is mute?” she demanded one day.</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><i> “Tommy
shows all the signs of being an intelligent child,” Thomas said attempting to
calm his agitated wife.</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i> “If
he cannot speak, how is he to run this estate when you are dead?” Fanny
protested.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><i> “Perhaps
he is simply not ready to speak,” Thomas reasoned.</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i> “What
child have you ever known that does not speak by the time they are three?”
Fanny asked. “He shall be four in May. Why, even Mary, who is only just two,
says more than he does.”</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><i> “Lizzy
speaks very well,” Thomas reasoned. “Tommy is very close to his sister. He will
pick up the skill from her.”</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><i> “Elizabeth
should be the mute one,” Fanny grumbled. “The girl will not cease speaking for
anything.”</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><i> “Such
a thing can only benefit her twin brother,” argued Mr. Bennet. “Tommy’s eyes
sparkle with understanding when we speak to him. He listens intently when I
read to him, and he can, within reason, inform us of his basic wants and needs.
I do not doubt that he will soon match his sisters in their progress, if not
exceed them.”</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><i> “If
you are wrong, Mr. Bennet, it will mean our future security,” insisted Fanny.
“Your cousin Collins was not best pleased when you wrote him of our son’s
birth. If Tommy turns out to be an idiot, Collins will petition to have us
thrown from our home the minute you are in the ground!”</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><i> “That
is simply not possible,” Thomas insisted, feeling his temper thinning. “As long
as Tommy lives to reach his majority, the entail will end with him. You shall
not be thrown from your home. Since Tommy is a healthy child; there is no need
for concern.”</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><i> “I
am sure it is easy for you to be so sanguine about it, given you will not be
alive to experience the genteel poverty such an event would subject upon us!”
screeched Fanny. “My worries are justified and valid. Nothing in this life is
certain, except death.”</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><i> “My
dear Fanny,” sighed Thomas, “I swear to you that I shall prepare for the
possibility that you shall not be able to call Longbourn your home upon my
demise. There is no need to worry yourself into a fit of nerves.”</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><i> “There
is always a need to worry, Mr. Bennet,” Fanny sniffed. She said nothing more
but rose from her seat and glided as gracefully from the room as her expectant
state would allow.</i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUnuq0NXsVqFx3FfsDeCN4t6sPYGuspqIA6yN0APOxCHtv8VcE9O1gjVV25Ek4OfQXEOTl2-KGH29mGhT254MZ-9NrkNhyphenhyphenqGYe-teE_QuxpL2Az2_0rsbpQfyW9ceW9-ziBUgYERgp6gDHGpOh8fPQRcNKPMkzLOfc4dCWTcFTQjh75kHzOlI_sfqbWc/s449/Elisabeth_Bennet_(d%C3%A9tail).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="276" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUnuq0NXsVqFx3FfsDeCN4t6sPYGuspqIA6yN0APOxCHtv8VcE9O1gjVV25Ek4OfQXEOTl2-KGH29mGhT254MZ-9NrkNhyphenhyphenqGYe-teE_QuxpL2Az2_0rsbpQfyW9ceW9-ziBUgYERgp6gDHGpOh8fPQRcNKPMkzLOfc4dCWTcFTQjh75kHzOlI_sfqbWc/w246-h400/Elisabeth_Bennet_(d%C3%A9tail).jpg" width="246" /></a></span></div><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Prepare to be transported to the enchanting world of Jane Austen with a fresh perspective and a compelling narrative that will keep you eagerly turning the pages. Stay tuned for more updates and insights from My Jane Austen Book Club.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></p><div style="text-align: right;">Warm regards,</div><div style="text-align: right;">Yours Truly</div><div style="text-align: right;">MG</div><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> <b>GIVEAWAY</b></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><br /></b></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><a class="rcptr" data-raflid="af643a386" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/af643a386/" id="rcwidget_5e6coa9g" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a></div>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-58069026185231228962024-01-18T08:30:00.001+01:002024-01-18T08:30:00.131+01:00WITHOUT AFFECTION: INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR CAROLINE CARTIER & GIVEAWAY<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmVIrjPxsTQBMWZ2EVyLDKOMIcLWLDCqjL-u6LY-R7pM326xD0vQOoB3CC3_zyGHwxsIiniPT6zhZxjjRqpsCGul4VmSohQR_9xRJPT_NJGJJr3LAOfMgFcptwSk0O1bnS9jeKHINpkCUCmy3UhAXEgxce9oDjW_pr3ZlzYY7PfuExOLaJa8das2DE3rE/s2048/NWA%20Cover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1401" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmVIrjPxsTQBMWZ2EVyLDKOMIcLWLDCqjL-u6LY-R7pM326xD0vQOoB3CC3_zyGHwxsIiniPT6zhZxjjRqpsCGul4VmSohQR_9xRJPT_NJGJJr3LAOfMgFcptwSk0O1bnS9jeKHINpkCUCmy3UhAXEgxce9oDjW_pr3ZlzYY7PfuExOLaJa8das2DE3rE/w438-h640/NWA%20Cover.jpg" width="438" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Today, here at My Jane Austen Book Club, we have a new guest, Caroline Cartier, author of a brand new Pride and Prejudice Variation, “Without Affection.” Welcome, Caroline and thanks for finding the time to answer our questions. Could you start by telling us a bit about yourself and your journey into the world of writing?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> Hi Maria! Thank you so much for letting me stop by your lovely blog! Let me see, what can I tell you about myself. I’m 43 and married with one daughter. I used to be a surgical coordinator, but I injured my spine during the pandemic and now I write books. <span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>You mention being captivated by historical fiction at a young age. What authors mainly influenced your writing style and choice of genres?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">When I was sixteen, a lady whose children I babysat learned that I was watching “Gone with the Wind”over and over, and thinking I may enjoy more historical fiction, loaned me a copy of “Mary, Queen of Scots” by Jean Plaidy. Then another about Anne Boleyn. I came from a disadvantaged background, so the only resource I had was the local library, which happily had a large selection of books by Jean Plaidy, Victoria Holt, and Phillippa Carr. I wanted to write from a very young age but I received very little encouragement at home. I think my first attempt was a fan fiction sequel to Little Women when I was fifteen. Sadly, my evil mother got hold of the first chapter and read it to my friends, and after the obligatory teasing, I lost my confidence and didn’t attempt to write again until I was forty-one. I think it was always in the cards for me to write something historical. Even as a teen, I have always been attracted to the stories of the past.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Your first Jane Austen Variation was Mr Darcy's Diary by Amanda Grange. What about that particular book and the world of Jane Austen Variations drew you in?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> I’ve always been a fan of Austen. Since my teens, I have been taking “Pride and Prejudice” off of my shelf and reading it two or three times a year like clockwork. I believe it was some years ago when a local bookstore was closing that a discounted copy of Mr Darcy’s Diary caught my eye. After that, my routine changed slightly. Then once I had done my usual reading of Pride and Prejudice, I would immediately begin Mr Darcy’s Diary. It was often a comfort tactic. If I’d had a bad day, I could come home and those books would be waiting. I always thought Amanda Grange did a superb job of capturing Darcy’s essence. Her book is a perfect example of what I think Mr Darcy’s diary would have contained, and whenever someone asks for a gateway recommendation to JAFF, I recommend Mr Darcy’s Diary every time.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Could you share more about your upcoming project, The Victorian Vagaries? What inspired you to delve into a Victorian Pride and Prejudice Quartet?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> Honestly? The first volume of the Victorian Vagaries, “Pride &amp; Precipitance,” is the first thing I attempted to write since that terrible experience when I was fifteen. Because it’s my first foray into JAFF, it has turned out to be an enaction of my daydreams. Elizabeth is wildly rich and friends with my favourite characters from other historical fiction works (these characters are identified only by an initial). Obviously, MY Elizabeth cannot be expected to use an old-fashioned chamber pot! I wanted a slightly more comfortable and lavish style of living for my characters, without leaving behind the charm, manners, and courtesy that we love in historical fiction. I also wanted the story to be set in the Industrial Revolution, where there would be new material and ideas to write about. This was a time when women were still expected to marry and be led by their husbands, but it was also a time when women were beginning to enter the workforce in more significant ways, such as the hundreds of postmistresses all over England, most of whom inherited their contracts from husbands or father, but many were awarded their positions by their own merits. It was a time when women were still largely unwelcome in most workplaces, but an eccentric, wealthy female investor might have been tolerated and humoured in society.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>You enjoy fantasy and YA fiction. How do these genres and authors influence your approach to historical romance and Jane Austen Variations?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> I’m not sure that they do, precisely. I think it’s more likely that each of these genres represents a different period of my life when different interests reigned supreme. I read less YA fiction now than I did say, ten years ago. However, that may just be because the Harry Potter and Percy Jackson waves have died down a bit and those authors haven’t offered us an awful lot of material since then. I do get excited when Rick Riordan releases something new, but nothing fresh in that genre has grabbed me lately. I have found a wealth of wonderful fantasy authors on Kindle Unlimited such as Ben Hale and Jeff Wheeler, but I find myself more in an Austenesque phase than anything else for the last several years. I promised myself I would read a non-JAFF book when I finished writing “Not Without Affection,” but I haven’t actually done it yet.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Drawing inspiration from authors like Stephanie Laurens, Julia Quinn, and Lisa Kleypas, how do you incorporate elements from historical romances and period dramas into your own writing?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> I’m an enormous fan of mash-ups. In small ways outside of Austen material. For example, in The Victorian Vagaries, Elizabeth lives on Bruton Street across from “Lady B.” Or Darcy’s grandmother is great friends with “Lady D, Lady O, and the Dowager Duchess of St I.” There are several mentions of Elizabeth hoping for an opportunity to invest in a railroad foundry with Lord W and his friend Mr H. I have to say that those three authors and their wonderful series played a great part in the backdrop of mymind for The Victorian Vagaries.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Writing both Regency fiction and being a fan of fantasy and YA fiction showcases a diverse taste. How do you balance these genres in your own writing?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I’ve always been good at compartmentalizing. I enjoy everything in it’s own little box. Other than the odd nerd reference (which you will find sprinkled all over my books), I don’t usually have trouble balancing my varying interests. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>The synopsis of your Pride and Prejudice Variation involves unexpected turns and challenges for Elizabeth Bennet. What motivated you to take the story in this direction, and what themes do you aim to explore?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I can’t really answer what motivated me in regards to Not Without Affection. One moment I was minding my own business, and the next I had dialogue pouring out of my ear and I just rolled with it. I have a lot of ideas for future themes. One thing you will see a lot of from me is redemption arcs. I adore them, although for some reason I don’t care for redeeming LCDB. I love a redeemed Collins, or Mrs Bennet. I also love to take canonically kind or good characters and make them bad. I have this theory that no one can be completely good or even completely evil. The sweetest character must harbour uncharitable thoughts in the darkness of the night sometimes. Even the cruelest villain might offer a stray kitten a saucer of milk. I like to peel away the layers of these essentially good or bad characters and develop alternate personas.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Can you share a bit about your writing process? How do you approach the creation of characters and the development of plotlines?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> I truly have no writing process. I do get ideas and plan for how I’d like the plot to unfold, but then my characters have their own ideas. I used to roll my eyes when authors said that they have no control over what happens in their books but now I get it. I spend a lot of time yelling at my characters when they go directly against my plans. It’s all word vomit until the revisions process, although I’m sure that my skills and writing style will develop over time. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>What are your future plans as a writer? Are there specific genres or time periods you'd like to explore in your future works?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I do plan to write many more Austenesque books. I have a document with probably ninety ideas in it that I hope to work on at some point in the future. Aside from JAFF, I have been working on my ancestry over the last year and what I have found has been fascinating. My grandmother was not lying, her father’s ancestors did really come over on the Mayflower. There is also a line from her family that was very heavily involved in the Salem Witch Trials and the documentation and story behind that scenario is fascinating. And on my mother’s side, one line extends back to The King's Daughters, who were the 800 or so women who immigrated to Canada or rather “New France” under a program sponsored by Louis XIV in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. I am planning a historical fiction ancestral trilogy based on these stories, but they will be something I do on the sidelines and they likely will not be published for some time.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring writers, especially those who are venturing into the world of Jane Austen Variations or historical romance?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">There is a story in you. Let it out! </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">ABOUT THE BOOK</span></u></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;">When Mr Collins visits Longbourn, Elizabeth Bennet is shocked by the sycophantic behaviour of her family toward the Longbourn heir. Mrs Bennet declares that any of her daughters had better accept the man if he offers for them, and Elizabeth quickly comes to suspect that her father will not defend them should they wish to refuse. Despite her protestations, Elizabeth finds herself engaged to her cousin against her will and her sisters turned against her, showing Elizabeth harsh revelations about Jane's true character. She makes plans to escape the untenable situation, with help from Charlotte, and surprisingly, Mr Darcy, but the marriage moves forward despite their efforts and Lizzy is forced to accept her fate.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">When Elizabeth is unexpectedly relieved of her unwanted husband, her new friends at Rosings support her as she builds her new life, while Mr Darcy is relieved to have a chance to win her heart but knows he must wait to court her to preserve her reputation. While he suffers the long wait of her mourning until she can be courted, Elizabeth must decide if she is willing to try again, as estate matters and other parties threaten to end the match before it is made in this 68,000-word Pride and Prejudice Variation.</div><p style="text-align: left;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">ABOUT THE AUTHOR</span></u></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Caroline Cartier is an anglophile in her early forties, living out her happily ever after in New England with her very own Darcy. She is mom to an extraordinary young woman who is an English major, two cats, and a spaniel (co-author) named Belle.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Having cut her teeth on the Tudors and Mary Queen of Scots with the historical fiction of Jean Plaidy and Victoria Holt at sixteen, Caroline read her way through the histories of the Monarchs of England and France, settling into an abiding love for Regency fiction in her twenties.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Her first Jane Austen Variation was Mr Darcy's Diary by Amanda Grange. Several years later, a free trial of Kindle Unlimited opened a whole new world of JAFF. After reading what feels like hundreds of variations, Caroline began her first writing project in 2021, The Victorian Vagaries, a Victorian Pride and Prejudice Quartet that will be published in 2024.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Having been a gushing member of many fandoms in her time, Caroline takes great enjoyment in fantasy and YA fiction, and enjoys the works of Rick Riordan, Angie Sage, James Patterson (the Max Ride series), Stephanie Meyers, Suzanne Collins, J K Rowling, L M Montgomery, and of course the father of fantasy, J R R Tolkien.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">She takes her inspiration for writing from the wonderful authors of JAFF and the romance series of Stephanie Laurens, Julia Quinn, and Lisa Kleypas, in addition to other historical romances and television period dramas.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: center;"><b>USEFUL LINKS</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/stores/Caroline- Cartier/author/B0CRQVWZL5?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_4&amp;qid=1705178675&amp;sr=8- 4&amp;isDramIntegrated=true&amp;shoppingPortalEnabled=true">Amazon</a> </b><b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092622895777&amp;mibextid=ZbWKwL ">Facebook</a> </b><a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fhrhcarolinecartier%3 Figsh%3DeDR0NWJ4OXpoaHRq%26fbclid%3DIwAR2dWTo2I7kPPKICNU1- bqG9_pG4axIidM7JLMlu9TuPfpFyGyt9SkP9D70&amp;h=AT0BznO7Mjy4Q_O8xwjgfPUwHIqRk3L44"><b>Instagram</b></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>GIVEAWAY</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a class="rcptr" data-raflid="ec2c23ce1" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ec2c23ce1/" id="rcwidget_94i2jlb1" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: left;">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a></p><script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-91467637041198580662024-01-11T08:30:00.002+01:002024-01-11T08:30:00.157+01:00MR DARCY'S BOOKSHOP, A PRIDE AND PREJUDICE VARIATION BY SUMMER HANFORD. INTERVIEW & GIVEAWAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgytygv5umfSjdtgJu_QwbHryn0W-gvfAtDo9vicEMjVk-PVzam9MNRQGSiad1QZm4WQgg2FOtiqLJp5aDB_1WOApK8WBZM5P6Thn_qO7EuhboOKn3XjiReZDl-oQnPREw_ddqMmzcFK-TMLidAAoN1t3UzgqUfaw7Q7CLEWwyWLgUERPXNxvQAoBrDYKQ/s3264/BeFunky-collage%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1691" data-original-width="3264" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgytygv5umfSjdtgJu_QwbHryn0W-gvfAtDo9vicEMjVk-PVzam9MNRQGSiad1QZm4WQgg2FOtiqLJp5aDB_1WOApK8WBZM5P6Thn_qO7EuhboOKn3XjiReZDl-oQnPREw_ddqMmzcFK-TMLidAAoN1t3UzgqUfaw7Q7CLEWwyWLgUERPXNxvQAoBrDYKQ/w640-h332/BeFunky-collage%20(2).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p><span style="text-align: justify;"><b>Today, here at My Jane Austen Book Club, we have the
plea</b></span><b style="text-align: justify;">atting with Summer Hanford, the brilliant mind behind the new Pride and Prejudice Variation, Mr. Darcy's Bookshop. Welcome, Summer! Could you start by telling us what inspired you to explore the idea of Fitzwilliam Darcy as a bookseller?</b><b style="text-align: justify;">sure of ch</b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>Hi Maria Grazia!
First, thank you so much for hosting me today. I’m very excited to be here at
My Jane Austen Book Club. Thank you for putting together such a nice gathering
place for the Austenesque community.<span></span></i></p><a name='more'></a><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>But to your question, I wanted Mr. Darcy to have a job, and
one that clearly put him below Elizabeth without changing her status, so I
selected shopkeeper. Once that decision was made, it seemed only logical that
if Mr. Darcy was going to work in a shop all day and sell something, it would
be books. Obviously, bookselling also creates an obvious tie in back to the
Bennets. Plus, as an added bonus, it gives me every right to give him
spectacles. </i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>How has Jane Austen's work influenced your writing, and
what drew you to explore variations of Pride and Prejudice?</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>I’ll answer the second part first. Renata McMann
drew me to explore variations of Pride and Prejudice. She and I used to
be in a writing class together. How she stumbled into this world, I’m not
entirely certain but I believe she started with Abigail Reynolds, as everyone
should, and as I did as well, with the exception of looking over Renata’s
novellas for her. We had been in the writing class together for years, so when
she decided to begin writing variations, she asked me to edit them for her.<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>I insisted she needed more emotion. She decided I should add
it because she didn’t want to. Thus, a partnership was born.</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>So you see, I came to Austen’s work the wrong way round. I
only read her work after Renata asked me to collaborate with her. I’d seen
several movies, of course, but I had never read Jane Austen’s work. So, the
first thing I did was put the complete works of Jane Austen on my kindle, and
read them. Then I read The Man Who Loved Pride and Prejudice by Abigail
Reynolds, and who wouldn’t be hooked at that point?<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>As to how Jane Austen’s writing influences mine, it’s safe
to say that I do not attempt to imitate her writing style (because I would fail
catastrophically). What I do try, and never fully master of course, is to
capture some of her wit. Her ready banter. Her undertones of sarcasm. Those are
all things I love and attempt to emulate.</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>The influence of Darcy's powerful relations and the
absence of Darcy from Pemberley seem to add a layer of intrigue to the story.
How do these elements contribute to the plot and the challenges faced by the
characters?</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>So, this touches on the ‘big change’ in this book,
to angle it away from Pride and Prejudice. In this variation, The Earl
of Matlock, Sir Lewis de Bourgh, and George Darcy are alive. None of their
wives are. The three, all powerful men, take the idea of Darcy and Anne de
Bourgh marrying very seriously. It is escape from their insistence on that
union that drove Darcy to become a bookseller. <o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>This accomplishes several things. For one, it creates a sort
of ‘hidden prince’ scenario, in that Darcy is secretly heir to a great estate,
even though he appears to be a bookseller (and he does get a kiss shortly
before transforming). The removal of Darcy from Pemberley also sets up a void
in George Darcy’s and Georgiana’s lives, and I think we can all guess who
cheerfully steps in to take Darcy’s place in any way he can. </i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b> Mr. Darcy's Bookshop sounds like a delightful variation
with laughter, love, and a happily ever after. Without giving away too much,
can you share what readers can look forward to in the journey of Darcy and Elizabeth?</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>Readers can definitely look forward to a happily
ever after. I would never take that away from them. In this variation, you can
also expect a more competent, self-aware Darcy. I’ve written my share of the
opposite, and I thought it might be nice to give Darcy a chance to be a better
man for a change. He faces some internal obstacles, but in this variation most
of his challenges are external. <o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>In contrast, Elizabeth is a touch less sure of herself and
has time for introspection.</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Mr. Darcy's
Bookshop offers a unique twist to the Pride and Prejudice narrative. How did
you approach blending your own creative ideas with the established world and
characters created by Jane Austen?</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>I did my utmost to keep the characters true to canon.
The changes to them are the result of the changes to the plot, and how those
changes would shape the canon characters. For example, this Bingley is less
polished than usual, but that is because he hasn’t been under Darcy’s influence
as they don’t even meet until the start of the book. <o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>Now, of course the three powerful gentlemen had characters
open to interpretation, which I did, making Matlock and George Darcy men
accustomed to being powerful and obeyed. Sir Lewis is quite similar to Lady
Catherine, on the assumption that they liked that about one another. He varies
in one important way, however: how he raises their daughter. This alters Anne’s
character greatly, but not if you go with the idea that she was always a bit of
a malleable block of clay waiting to be molded by her mother. This Anne has
simply been molded by her father instead.<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>The only other character I feel is greatly changed is Jane.
She is a little less perfect than usual, perhaps because she is under the
pressure of being the ‘big sister’ while she and Elizabeth are in London, and
perhaps because she meets Mr. Bingley away from her family and so does not have
to do her utmost to appear as not-silly as possible to counteract the
impressions given by her mother and sisters. On top of that, she has already
has the scare of nearly being engaged to Mr. Collins to motivate her husband
hunting.</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Given your love for Jane Austen's works, are there
specific Pride and Prejudice moments or characters that you find particularly
inspiring or that influenced your portrayal of Darcy and Elizabeth in Mr.
Darcy's Bookshop?</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>Mr. Collins’ proposal is always one of my favorite
moments. It is so painful and so horrendous. I like to work in variations of
his attempts to marry a Bennet sister whenever I can, and have done so here.
This definitely gives Elizabeth a moment to shine.<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>As for Darcy, I did not want to give up completely on his
social blunders because I do find them enjoyable. So there are some sections of
him interacting with his cousins that allow him to be more what, in this book,
would be his youthful self, before his years in the bookshop helped him grow as
a person. </i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>What advice do
you have for readers who are passionate about Jane Austen and enjoy exploring
variations of her works?</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>Keep exploring. There are so many amazing variations
out there by some many wonderful authors. Find what you like, of course, but
keep exploring. And thank you for being readers!</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Before we conclude, is there a particular aspect of Mr.
Darcy's Bookshop that you think Jane Austen fans will find especially
delightful or surprising?</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>I find Mr. Collins delightful in this book, but not
surprising. There is an incident with a buzzard I am quite fond of, and one
with kittens. There is also a brief nod to Lady Bertram, purely for my own
amusement, and hopefully that of the readers. <o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>Overall, Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop is definitely lighthearted,
which does not mean it doesn’t have its weighty moments, of course, and there
is also a splash of adventure. Mostly, I wanted lots of fun dialogue,
especially between Elizabeth and Darcy.<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>And there is more kissing than usual, which is not saying
much when it comes to me. Only kissing, though. The book still very much falls
into the category of ‘sweet’ when it comes to the heat level, as readers can
expect from me.</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"> <b>Thank you, Summer, for giving us a glimpse into the
world of your Mr. Darcy's Bookshop and for sharing your insights. We can't wait
to discover more leafing through the pages of your latest creation. </b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>Thank you, Maria Grazia, for hosting me here on My Jane
Austen Book Club and for such wonderful questions. I hope you, and everyone,
really enjoy Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop.</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><u>ABOUT THE BOOK<o:p></o:p></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsYvRclkWeEdbf48Z2cMRK8VhQuG5c1ivzbvFROkLd68sRwZy71a-vS-H1077Xb9D2I3h1st05GKS6hNRMkRumOI4Eqdpou-xhogPlELvZibVje0m9w2RaEDj8f1Ha4fE7Nq4d-qfdU2xChHbDBwYlZcClPStHpE-ou2Jg_G1cHax-fup-Fd7ZGD5nxM/s2775/Mr.%20Darcy's%20Bookshop%20Cover%20Final.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2775" data-original-width="1855" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsYvRclkWeEdbf48Z2cMRK8VhQuG5c1ivzbvFROkLd68sRwZy71a-vS-H1077Xb9D2I3h1st05GKS6hNRMkRumOI4Eqdpou-xhogPlELvZibVje0m9w2RaEDj8f1Ha4fE7Nq4d-qfdU2xChHbDBwYlZcClPStHpE-ou2Jg_G1cHax-fup-Fd7ZGD5nxM/w428-h640/Mr.%20Darcy's%20Bookshop%20Cover%20Final.jpg" width="428" /></a></b></div><b><br /><u><br /></u></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Cut off from his family’s fortune because he refuses to marry
the woman his father has selected for him, Fitzwilliam Darcy takes up the only
employment he deems tolerable, that of bookseller. Darcy is determined to
support himself and to marry for love, but his powerful relations use their
clout to keep customers and fashionable young ladies away. Worse, Darcy’s
absence from Pemberley allows treachery to flourish. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Determined to see her older sister marry as well as
possible, Elizabeth Bennet orchestrates their removal to London. Elizabeth
isn’t searching for a husband of her own, but she is always looking for a good
book. At a pleasant little bookshop in Cheapside, she finds plenty to read, and
so much more. But should she give her heart to a bookseller and leave the life
of a gently bred lady behind? <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop asks what would happen if George Darcy
and Sir Lewis de Bourgh had lived, and taken up their deceased wives’ quest to
see Darcy and Anne wed. This is a lighthearted variation with laughter, love, a
touch of villainy, and a happily ever after for our dear couple.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><u>ABOUT THE AUTHOR<o:p></o:p></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBk90xbHfBU5BYI1blHXcK6uJIBHrfBoVIZwDxGz3jYfiIzq2_M1ghWEpk7nWwhRm7WwWiO6QoXbgyX9dEVk7J3slpjCf3SRreWlCJ-nEiqbX_1ufuXjrsunR0OyBSIOuj1zZG2B_to3dia-0g38B8Q48pLkl-xirH65SoDYqDdAghrNhxyginJLVBEEQ/s1934/Author%20Photo%20Summer%20Hanford.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1728" data-original-width="1934" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBk90xbHfBU5BYI1blHXcK6uJIBHrfBoVIZwDxGz3jYfiIzq2_M1ghWEpk7nWwhRm7WwWiO6QoXbgyX9dEVk7J3slpjCf3SRreWlCJ-nEiqbX_1ufuXjrsunR0OyBSIOuj1zZG2B_to3dia-0g38B8Q48pLkl-xirH65SoDYqDdAghrNhxyginJLVBEEQ/s320/Author%20Photo%20Summer%20Hanford.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><u><br /></u></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Summer Hanford writes gripping
Epic Fantasy, swashbuckling Historical Romance, and best-selling Pride and
Prejudice retellings. She lives in the Finger Lakes Region of New York with her
husband and compulsory, deliberately spoiled, cats. The newest addition to
their household, an energetic setter-shepherd mix, is (still) not appreciated
by the cats but is well loved by the humans. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p>While Summer’s education is in
Experimental Psychology and Behavioral Neurology, her true passion has always
been writing. As a child growing up on a dairy farm, she built castles made of
hay and wielded swords made of fence posts. She is passionate about gardening,
travel, and organizing her closet. Nothing pleases her more than a row of tops
broken down by sleeve length and ordered by color, hung on corresponding
hangers…except working on her latest novel.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><o:p> </o:p>For more about Summer, visit <a href="http://www.summerhanford.com/">www.summerhanford.com</a>.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><o:p> </o:p><b>Social Media Links</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Website: <a href="https://summerhanford.com/">https://summerhanford.com/</a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSummerHanford/">https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSummerHanford/</a>
<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/summerhanford?lang=en">https://twitter.com/summerhanford?lang=en</a>
<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/summerhanford/?hl=en">https://www.instagram.com/summerhanford/?hl=en</a>
<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@summerhanford">https://www.tiktok.com/@summerhanford</a>
<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><b>Follow Links</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Amazon: <a href="https://viewauthor.at/PridePrejudiceSummer">https://viewauthor.at/PridePrejudiceSummer</a>
<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Goodreads: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6627686.Summer_Hanford">https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6627686.Summer_Hanford</a>
<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">BookBub: <a href="https://www.bookbub.com/profile/summer-hanford">https://www.bookbub.com/profile/summer-hanford</a>
<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p><b>Email:</b> <a href="mailto:summer@summerhanford.com">summer@summerhanford.com</a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><b><u>GIVEAWAY<o:p></o:p></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Win a copy of Mr. Darcy’s
Bookshop! Visit: <a href="https://summerhanford.com/pride-and-prejudice-variations/giveaways/">https://summerhanford.com/pride-and-prejudice-variations/giveaways/</a><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p>This giveaway is open to all,
regardless of location, and will continue for one week, whereupon the winner
will be announced and contacted. Thank you for entering!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-89561984901965534652023-12-18T09:00:00.001+01:002023-12-18T09:00:00.135+01:00REVIEW: CYANIDE AND SENSIBILITY, A DELECTABLY DELIGHTFUL MYSTERY<p style="text-align: justify;"><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfPSiAN4H7ziXhyphenhyphenhFR9XiLfyjqhiWz3smbp5k5XnoumfaSj5BZ8nQB8GEsF5kIKpElQCibCC7-1mgVFyTsuKxEAX4rv8gncweuq5fEHiK8jzP7ZILKWWsWA9nBeSfCxPFK6lYIjwQLb2ViSaqxvyKOJIYq7CsfHZN4lsQUMK8rUq4Q6b6yPsrF4Q0pnr4/s1080/Cyanide%20and%20Sensibility%20Book%20Tour%20Instagram%20Graphic%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfPSiAN4H7ziXhyphenhyphenhFR9XiLfyjqhiWz3smbp5k5XnoumfaSj5BZ8nQB8GEsF5kIKpElQCibCC7-1mgVFyTsuKxEAX4rv8gncweuq5fEHiK8jzP7ZILKWWsWA9nBeSfCxPFK6lYIjwQLb2ViSaqxvyKOJIYq7CsfHZN4lsQUMK8rUq4Q6b6yPsrF4Q0pnr4/w640-h640/Cyanide%20and%20Sensibility%20Book%20Tour%20Instagram%20Graphic%20.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></div><i><br />Hello, everyone! I hope you've been following all the excitement around the release of Katie Oliver's <b>Cyanide and Sensibility</b> so far. What about my author interview, which opened the virtual book tour on December 4th? Well, if you've missed it somehow, here is the <b><a href="https://thesecretunderstandingofthehearts.blogspot.com/2023/12/cyanide-and-sensibility-virtual-book.html">LINK</a></b> to enjoy it and hear directly from the author about the creation of her new delightful mystery story. Today I'm especially here to share with you my review of the book. Ready to scroll down and read? No major spoilers ahead, only the typical ramblings of a well-entertained Austen fan.</i> <b>MG<span><a name='more'></a></span></b><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><u>MY REVIEW</u></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: left;"> I</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; text-align: left;">n the charming town of Laurel Springs, where
delectable pastries tempt the taste buds and Jane Austen's literary legacy
lingers, Phaedra Brighton finds herself drawn into a puzzling mystery that
threatens to derail her sister's budding patisserie business. When a dark
chocolate cupcake laced with cyanide finds its way into the hands of a
unsuspecting patron, the town is thrown into a frenzy, and Phaedra, with her
sharp intellect and unwavering sense of justice, embarks on a quest to uncover
the truth and bring the culprit to justice.</span></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin: 18pt 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #1f1f1f;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Austen scholar and reluctant sleuth, Phaedra,
navigates the intricate web of relationships and hidden agendas, delving into
the lives of those connected to the patisserie. As she sifts through clues and
questions alibis, she uncovers a trail of resentment, jealousy, and simmering
tensions that could have driven someone to resort to murder.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin: 18pt 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #1f1f1f;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Katie Oliver skillfully blends the charm of Jane
Austen's classics with the thrill of a cozy mystery, creating a delightful
concoction that will have readers eagerly turning the pages. Phaedra's witty
observations, her unwavering determination, and her passion for Jane Austen's
world make her an endearing and relatable protagonist.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin: 18pt 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #1f1f1f;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The supporting characters, each with their own
unique personalities and quirks, add depth and intrigue to the story. Hannah,
Phaedra's younger sister, is a spirited entrepreneur with a passion for baking,
while Mark Selden, the Oxford-educated professor who challenges Phaedra's
Austen obsession, provides a dynamic tension that keeps the narrative engaging.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin: 18pt 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #1f1f1f;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The novel's setting, the picturesque town of Laurel
Springs, with its quaint shops and friendly community, further enhances the
cozy atmosphere. The inclusion of Scents and Sensibility, an apothecary shop
with its rich historical background and knowledge of poisons, adds a touch of
intrigue and suspense to the narrative.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin: 18pt 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #1f1f1f;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Cyanide and Sensibility </i></b>is a delightful blend of
Austenesque charm, cozy mystery, and character-driven storytelling. Phaedra
Brighton's journey to uncover the truth is filled with twists and turns,
keeping readers guessing until the very end. Fans of Jane Austen, cozy
mysteries, and clever heroines will find much to enjoy in this delectable
literary treat.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihkRAC1zkBTt6GxKFYM0TS19WPh3sm8r6sz1g8tTKLICSJOIuEjOwLEMjYjhNlEuia1qtTTQ_hIQQfC-5kmhY6d9NrQOE_D0Fm6Q7KWzMIHwSKAhcFvEw8TMmu1g-rITanY_q5IwfS3RgU3m8XQfKa0Skcefye8cZprraVnXFAWGcTCofQjZH8eQVqgL8/s1250/Cyanide%20and%20Sensibility%20cover%202023%20x%20755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1250" data-original-width="755" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihkRAC1zkBTt6GxKFYM0TS19WPh3sm8r6sz1g8tTKLICSJOIuEjOwLEMjYjhNlEuia1qtTTQ_hIQQfC-5kmhY6d9NrQOE_D0Fm6Q7KWzMIHwSKAhcFvEw8TMmu1g-rITanY_q5IwfS3RgU3m8XQfKa0Skcefye8cZprraVnXFAWGcTCofQjZH8eQVqgL8/w386-h640/Cyanide%20and%20Sensibility%20cover%202023%20x%20755.jpg" width="386" /></a></div><br /><p style="background: white; margin: 18pt 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>ABOUT THE BOOK</u></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Join us in the charming
world of Laurel Springs, where murder is on the menu, and our protagonist,
Phaedra Brighton, is ready to serve up justice in the most delectable way
possible. In this delightful cozy mystery, Phaedra, lacking a Mr. Darcy in her
life, finds contentment in her loving family and loyal cat. As her sister,
Hannah, opens a new patisserie, Tout de Sweet, the town is abuzz with
excitement. But when a dark chocolate cupcake turns deadly, Phaedra is drawn
into a quest to save her sister's reputation and budding business. The question
lingers: Who was the intended target, and how far will the culprit go to
permanently remove them from the menu?<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.85pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u><span style="color: black;">PURCHASE LINKS</span></u></b><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8954683999390981517/7966177426406512780"><b><span style="color: blue;">AMAZON</span></b></a><b><span style="color: black;"> | </span></b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8954683999390981517/7966177426406512780"><b><span style="color: blue;">BARNES
& NOBLE</span></b></a><b><span style="color: black;"> | </span></b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8954683999390981517/7966177426406512780"><b><span style="color: blue;">PUBLISHER</span></b></a><b><span style="color: black;"> | </span></b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8954683999390981517/7966177426406512780"><b><span style="color: blue;">BOOKSHOP</span></b></a><b><span style="color: black;"> | </span></b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8954683999390981517/7966177426406512780"><b><span style="color: blue;">BOOKBUB</span></b></a><b><span style="color: black;"> |
</span></b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8954683999390981517/7966177426406512780"><b><span style="color: blue;">GOODREADS</span></b></a><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJyRyOD3lQ7oXavzllyzU9-gW0OhHf_zx3U_1qaJPQkTJZuUj9WdMAn3tk1lcMPGqgqqOtelbvOG3pshoiDMuocmNpfEWgMfv6OKAOl8hkeJYElNQ6IEPbLugUHA7S9tfq0hqkIJ2Q6lWi6pFd1EPfxfZ_3dj7pKT2UzY-3M5lmyZ8D6fY1cvSVEE3Bco/s1080/Katie%20Oliver%20headshot%202023%20x%201080.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img_class border="0" circle="" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJyRyOD3lQ7oXavzllyzU9-gW0OhHf_zx3U_1qaJPQkTJZuUj9WdMAn3tk1lcMPGqgqqOtelbvOG3pshoiDMuocmNpfEWgMfv6OKAOl8hkeJYElNQ6IEPbLugUHA7S9tfq0hqkIJ2Q6lWi6pFd1EPfxfZ_3dj7pKT2UzY-3M5lmyZ8D6fY1cvSVEE3Bco/s320/Katie%20Oliver%20headshot%202023%20x%201080.jpg" width="320"></img_class></a></span></b></div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-qCPyeX57cXrlCQ8J7IsCZI_IlE4VA7e-_eY4G4-uksNSPJ8Le3tvuqZ-Nf7XocZJeR2auk1DFHcHab6T_VTKaWwJnPjN6hTvXKFuKp9k0c_t6HgQ8h7ZHqfO76W3SpHn1xdEIQNyHiOipd2c9Q6IMnIALg9jJ3g5wxXl5zHgxkPoLCRXgu42Q9k4Pso/s1080/Katie%20Oliver%20headshot%202023%20x%201080.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-qCPyeX57cXrlCQ8J7IsCZI_IlE4VA7e-_eY4G4-uksNSPJ8Le3tvuqZ-Nf7XocZJeR2auk1DFHcHab6T_VTKaWwJnPjN6hTvXKFuKp9k0c_t6HgQ8h7ZHqfO76W3SpHn1xdEIQNyHiOipd2c9Q6IMnIALg9jJ3g5wxXl5zHgxkPoLCRXgu42Q9k4Pso/s320/Katie%20Oliver%20headshot%202023%20x%201080.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: black;">Katie
Oliver</span></b><span style="color: black;"> is known internationally as a writer of Jane
Austen rom-coms with a hint of mystery. In the US and the UK, she is the
bestselling author of the <i>Dating Mr. Darcy</i> and Marrying Mr.
Darcy series.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8954683999390981517/7966177426406512780"><b><span style="color: blue;">WEBSITE</span></b></a><b><span style="color: black;"> | </span></b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8954683999390981517/7966177426406512780"><b><span style="color: blue;">INSTAGRAM</span></b></a><b><span style="color: black;"> | </span></b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8954683999390981517/7966177426406512780"><b><span style="color: blue;">FACEBOOK</span></b></a><b><span style="color: black;"> | </span></b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8954683999390981517/7966177426406512780"><b><span style="color: blue;">X
(FORMERLY TWITTER)</span></b></a><b><span style="color: black;"> | </span></b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8954683999390981517/7966177426406512780"><b><span style="color: blue;">BOOKBUB</span></b></a><b><span style="color: black;"> | </span></b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/8954683999390981517/7966177426406512780"><b><span style="color: blue;">GOODREADS</span></b></a></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: IT;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-79661774264065127802023-12-04T09:00:00.003+01:002023-12-05T18:29:15.289+01:00CYANIDE AND SENSIBILITY VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR KATIE OLIVER <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #374151; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></p><br /><span style="color: #374151; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkV9sTopk4u3jn6IbFChB9y6oPCTgXWOb8FeQfc9OGqq1ScIs1StR_tYF9XmU2fMcemr1UwEvsAiF_RzmG30s4XrdIcoqXCizUQrGd-akSRMvWNn3-hHmp7DdVc_UP6X8qlee-Hoz4fdSzP9vghwGRGFhGWmeWzP1pyQe9De08JATbj_ZrpHMWaeepG6w/s1080/Cyanide%20and%20Sensibility%20Book%20Tour%20Instagram%20Graphic%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkV9sTopk4u3jn6IbFChB9y6oPCTgXWOb8FeQfc9OGqq1ScIs1StR_tYF9XmU2fMcemr1UwEvsAiF_RzmG30s4XrdIcoqXCizUQrGd-akSRMvWNn3-hHmp7DdVc_UP6X8qlee-Hoz4fdSzP9vghwGRGFhGWmeWzP1pyQe9De08JATbj_ZrpHMWaeepG6w/w640-h640/Cyanide%20and%20Sensibility%20Book%20Tour%20Instagram%20Graphic%20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Welcome, dear readers, to the much-anticipated kickoff of the <b>Cyanide and Sensibility Virtual Book Tour</b> here at My Jane Austen Book Club! We are delighted to bring you an exclusive sneak peek into the latest installment of The Jane Austen Tea Society Mystery series by the talented author Katie Oliver.<span><a name='more'></a></span></span><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; text-align: start; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><u>BOOK DESCRIPTION</u></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; text-align: start; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; text-align: start; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvixQPnGRSdgPihb0-COaz20NL_RdrkDXsIYAF9LEpPqvu6mJyJTWjiivkPgjRbu7gzcZXF8dGG6rpnxhXOjnTukn1DT_k-4unK0KulttOC3VLn4XXcwNb5-x4O8dFQeFXqBC_1PKXMWwAjFH_JX9x0omppqVcHXMFsQVDIu5zJ60y2ugJ16WbolXVYvw/s1250/Cyanide%20and%20Sensibility%20cover%202023%20x%20755.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1250" data-original-width="755" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvixQPnGRSdgPihb0-COaz20NL_RdrkDXsIYAF9LEpPqvu6mJyJTWjiivkPgjRbu7gzcZXF8dGG6rpnxhXOjnTukn1DT_k-4unK0KulttOC3VLn4XXcwNb5-x4O8dFQeFXqBC_1PKXMWwAjFH_JX9x0omppqVcHXMFsQVDIu5zJ60y2ugJ16WbolXVYvw/w386-h640/Cyanide%20and%20Sensibility%20cover%202023%20x%20755.jpg" width="386" /></a></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600; text-align: start; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /><u><br /></u></span></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: start; white-space-collapse: preserve;">
Join us in the charming world of Laurel Springs, where murder is on the menu, and our protagonist, Phaedra Brighton, is ready to serve up justice in the most delectable way possible. In this delightful cozy mystery, Phaedra, lacking a Mr. Darcy in her life, finds contentment in her loving family and loyal cat. As her sister, Hannah, opens a new patisserie, Tout de Sweet, the town is abuzz with excitement. But when a dark chocolate cupcake turns deadly, Phaedra is drawn into a quest to save her sister's reputation and budding business. The question lingers: Who was the intended target, and how far will the culprit go to permanently remove them from the menu?</span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #374151; text-align: start; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>PRAISE FOR CYANIDE AND SENSIBILITY</u></span></span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 1.25em 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"This is the first book I have read in the Jane Austen Tea Society series, but it won’t be my last…If you enjoy cozy mysteries, then this is a book you will enjoy." — <em style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1.25em; margin-top: 1.25em;">Book Looks by Lisa</em></span></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em; text-align: justify;"><em style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1.25em; margin-top: 1.25em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></em></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"The book is filled with great characters and a fun, twisty plot. Highly recommend." — <em style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1.25em; margin-top: 1.25em;">Cara Putnam, author of Come What May</em></span></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em; text-align: justify;"><em style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1.25em; margin-top: 1.25em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></em></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"5 STARS" — <em style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1.25em; margin-top: 1.25em;">Gwendalyn’s Books</em></span></li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 17.12px; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 19.9733px;"><u>PURCHASE LINKS</u><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px;"></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://amzn.to/3STLegd"><b>AMAZON</b></a><a name="_Hlk93660399"></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US"> <a name="_Hlk111811788">| </a></span></b><b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cyanide-and-sensibility-katie-oliver/1143202190?ean=9780593337653">BARNES & NOBLE</a> | </span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/676028/cyanide-and-sensibility-by-katie-oliver/"><b>PUBLISHER</b></a><a name="_Hlk142919019"></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US"> | </span></b><b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/cyanide-and-sensibility-katie-oliver/19889912?ean=9780593337653">BOOKSHOP</a> <a name="_Hlk142917608">|</a> </span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.bookbub.com/books/cyanide-and-sensibility-by-katie-oliver"><b>BOOKBUB</b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US"> | </span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123257837-cyanide-and-sensibility"><b>GOODREADS</b></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><p style="text-align: left;"></p></div><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Prepare to immerse yourself in a world where Jane Austen meets amateur sleuthing, as we unravel the delectable mystery served up by Katie Oliver in Cyanide and Sensibility. Scroll down for an exclusive author interview and look out for the next stops of the virtual tour and follow us on our enchanting virtual journey through the pages of the latest Jane Austen Tea Society Mystery. Let the tea be poured, and the mystery unfold!</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>AUTHOR INTERVIEW: FROM SENSE AND SENSILITY TO CYANIDE AND SENSIBILITY</u></b>
</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;">Cyanide and Sensibility</span></i></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;">
is part of your Jane Austen Tea Society Mystery series. Can you share their
connections to Austen and her original novels? <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I think Jane Austen’s novels are as much about finding true love as finding (to paraphrase Virginia Woolf) ‘a home of one’s own’. Her heroines seek not only a husband, but a home. A place in society, and in the world. Like Fanny, Elizabeth, Anne, and all of Austen’s fictional young women, Phaedra Brighton is single. In her case, determinedly so, despite her mother’s best efforts to see her married. Like Mrs. Bennet, Nan Brighton won’t rest until both of her daughters are happily married.</span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Phaedra’s world—as an Austen scholar and professor of nineteenth-century English literature at Somerset University in Virginia—is upended when a new professor arrives. Mark Selden is Oxford-educated, distractingly handsome, and dismissive of Jane Austen. He thinks she takes</span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Austen too seriously. She thinks he’s a literary snob. Sparks fly… and not in a good way. (Not unlike a certain couple in </span><i style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Pride and Prejudice</i><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">.)</span></div></span><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">For each book in the three-book cozy mystery series, I consider the theme and characters of Austen’s original novel and try to build my plot (and murder) accordingly. It can be a challenge; but although times have changed, people haven’t. They’re still avaricious, jealous, pompous,</span></div><span style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">deceitful. And as Phaedra learns in each book, some of them will stop at nothing—including murder—to achieve their goals.</span></div></span><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What was your spark of inspiration for <i>Cyanide and Sensibility</i>?</span></span></b></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I began with two elderly sisters, owners of Scents and Sensibility, an apothecary shop in Laurel Springs, Virginia. The shop is as unique and eccentric as Rebecca and Biddy Bondurant themselves. With a medicinal herb garden behind the shop and Rebecca’s extensive knowledge of poisons, Phaedra can’t help but wonder if one of the sisters might be a killer.</span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: left;">I was also inspired by the different paths two sisters might take. Like Elinor and Marianne in </span><i style="text-align: left;">Sense and Sensibility</i><span style="text-align: left;">, Phaedra and her younger sister Hannah are chalk and cheese. Phaedra is observant, critical, and cautious, while Hannah is impulsive and outgoing.</span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Can you share your thoughts on your heroine Phaedra Brighton? What personality traits make her a good detective? </span></span></b></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">As a scholar and an academic, Phaedra notices small details and looks beyond the surface. She doesn’t take situations or people at face value… traits which definitely prove advantageous to an amateur detective! She enjoys teaching, researching, and publishing articles on Jane Austen almost as much as she enjoys solving mysteries. Particularly if solving</span></div><span style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">the mystery will help clear the name of a close friend or family member.</span></div></span><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: left;">She’s a bit eccentric, enjoys lecturing her classes in Regency attire, and is definitely </span><i style="text-align: left;">not</i><span style="text-align: left;"> in want of a husband. Or at least, not yet.</span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Who was your favorite character to write in this story, and why?</span></span></b></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I really enjoyed delving deeper into the character of Marisol Dubois, Phaedra’s lively young teaching assistant and a member of the Jane Austen Tea Society. Like Marianne, she meets a handsome and charming young man and falls hard for him. But like John Willoughby, Michael Farrar is destined to leave her with a broken heart.</span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There have been several movie adaptations of <i>Sense and Sensibility</i>. Which one is your favorite? </span></span></b></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m only familiar with the Emma Thompson version, so I can’t really answer this one. Ms. Thompson’s screenplay kept true to the original novel in most aspects, and the cast was incredible. However, the 2008 BBC television series is the version I’d most like to see.</span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What’s up next in your writing career?</span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m finishing a proposal for three more Jane
Austen Tea Society Mystery books, based on Austen novels (with a murder thrown
in, of course). After that? Who knows! I started out writing romantic comedies,
and that was loads of fun, so perhaps I’ll revisit the world of “meet cute” and
pen another romance.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u><br /></u></span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>AUTHOR BIO</u></span></span></b></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibhsNtmoydZxUfDwua0l5dNusSgFMmDlOd7zpt9yRG3HOkWTiqQ5nLJpyMVIaUnVeSXflRyNUMfcoAMSlgjxLnkJZRdAkHp88IHY_4U1Yekj0qkOJiDZ7hwjdyjwMEGS5e-GMjQMN8ox9DOVwV32-sIeD2d4geOFI_DT03k0D1dBftnEGnWYsv0DO-aFs/s1080/Katie%20Oliver%20headshot%202023%20x%201080.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" class="circle" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibhsNtmoydZxUfDwua0l5dNusSgFMmDlOd7zpt9yRG3HOkWTiqQ5nLJpyMVIaUnVeSXflRyNUMfcoAMSlgjxLnkJZRdAkHp88IHY_4U1Yekj0qkOJiDZ7hwjdyjwMEGS5e-GMjQMN8ox9DOVwV32-sIeD2d4geOFI_DT03k0D1dBftnEGnWYsv0DO-aFs/s320/Katie%20Oliver%20headshot%202023%20x%201080.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span lang="EN-US">Katie
Oliver</span></b><span lang="EN-US"> is
known internationally as a writer of Jane Austen rom-coms with a hint of
mystery. In the US and the UK, she is the bestselling author of the <i>Dating
Mr. Darcy</i> and Marrying Mr. Darcy series.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://katieoliver.com/ko/"><b>WEBSITE</b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US"> | </span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/katiewriter/"><b>INSTAGRAM</b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US"> | </span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/KatieOliverWriter"><b>FACEBOOK</b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US"> | </span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://twitter.com/katieoliver01"><b>X (FORMERLY TWITTER)</b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US"> | </span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.bookbub.com/profile/katie-oliver"><b>BOOKBUB</b></a><!--[if !supportNestedAnchors]--><a name="_Hlk146013606"></a><!--[endif]--></span><b><span lang="EN-US"> | </span></b><b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7565829.Katie_Oliver">GOODREADS</a></span></b></span><b><span face=""Arial","sans-serif"" lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;">
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-80725519097984287732023-11-01T09:24:00.001+01:002023-11-01T09:26:53.139+01:00NEW RELEASE! WORTHY BY JULIA WINTER: AUTHOR INTERVIEW & GIVEAWAY<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhOK0kXHkrtHg9Hyf_F6D8wcp_ettOpHqRdtRDLh3d4XW6nK-PkU9Fjglk_3-rKbw8nVU019jXR4HjcqU9Cui_yEQGwrhIEjRMcstUTGCe3gjCmhgaJXjzDhiT4dXwuS3TIMr0ESxxiv6D7tImUCblxF2aRumJw4ZFkaU1SE0V5V00LdYO3jfJJRviDY/s600/Worthy900%20Banner.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="294" data-original-width="600" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhOK0kXHkrtHg9Hyf_F6D8wcp_ettOpHqRdtRDLh3d4XW6nK-PkU9Fjglk_3-rKbw8nVU019jXR4HjcqU9Cui_yEQGwrhIEjRMcstUTGCe3gjCmhgaJXjzDhiT4dXwuS3TIMr0ESxxiv6D7tImUCblxF2aRumJw4ZFkaU1SE0V5V00LdYO3jfJJRviDY/w640-h314/Worthy900%20Banner.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 150%;">About
The Book</span></b><p></p>
<p class="Noindent" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In the course of 1811, the Bennets of
Longbourn meet two sets of estranged relatives: Mr Bennet’s unprepossessing
heir, and his mother’s family. Elizabeth Bennet journeys into Kent to stay with
the Palmers at Wingham Hall: her grand-aunt Iphigenia, her cousin Sir James
Palmer, who had loved her grandmother ardently in his youth, and his son
Galahad. Pleased with her new relations, Elizabeth is less content with the
taciturn friend Galahad has invited to join him at Wingham. Fitzwilliam
Darcy—rich and proud, disdainful of those beneath him—has escorted his sister
Georgiana to Ramsgate, to recuperate from a dangerous illness in the care of
her companion, Mrs Younge.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Complications arise with the arrival of Elizabeth’s sister
Jane and, separately, Charles and Caroline Bingley, the authors of Jane’s
unhappiness. Tensions and quarrels result in the Bingleys’ abrupt departure,
swiftly followed by Darcy after a maladroit proposal that Elizabeth spurns with
a pride that matches his own.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Unfortunately, Darcy leaves Kent just as his enemy, George
Wickham appears, intent on securing Georgiana and her fortune. Who will stand
between Georgiana and ruin? Who will win Jane Bennet’s hand? And can Darcy and
Elizabeth ever be reconciled?”<span></span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>Author Interview</b></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Your latest book,
Worthy, is a captivating variation of Jane Austen's world. What drew you to the
Regency era and the characters from Pride and Prejudice in particular?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ve loved Austen since my early teens, when I was given a complete set
of her novels for Christmas—I was a voracious reader from a very early age, and
books as presents were always the best! I powered through the set in a week. I
didn’t love them all equally – and still don’t. Pride and Prejudice and
Persuasion definitely lead the pack for me. Even at that age, I thought P&P
was the quintessential love story, with characters who felt alive, and intense,
and generally, people I wished I knew.<span></span></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Of course, some of it confused me, since everyday living then was
obviously very different than modern day, but I was lucky that I had an
outstanding teacher of English Literature, who was also an Austen fan, and he
explained a lot of context for me. To give an example, when Darcy declares 50 miles
is an easy distance to travel, my teacher showed me how that displays Darcy’s
privilege and wealth, as such a journey would indeed be nothing for him; and
how subtly it shows the economic gulf between him and Elizabeth. That sort of
thing would be understood immediately by Austen’s contemporaries, even though
it escaped a teen focused on making sure our dear couple have their happy
ending and who wasn’t above flicking to the last page to make sure it happens!
Still, as I grew older and more and more fascinated by social history, reading
Austen with that better, stronger understanding, has deepened my appreciation
for her wit and cleverness. You need to appreciate the similarities and
differences between Darcy and Elizabeth to get every little nuance of their
conversations, to understand their relationship. She wrote comedies of manners,
and did so superlatively.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Regency period generally fascinates people I think because it’s so
romanticised and seen through the soft focus of girls in pretty dresses and
smartly-dressed young officers dancing the night away before Waterloo. The
Victorian period that followed saw the rise of the middle classes, with their
stricter sense of morality and propriety, when everyone dressed and behaved in
a far duller manner. The Regency, by contrast, seems to be far more free-spirited
and brightly-hued, less mealy-mouthed, as larger-than-life as Prinny himself.
The last thing you can say about it, is that it’s dull!<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The plot of
"Worthy" introduces intriguing new relatives for the Bennet family.
Could you tell us more about the inspiration behind these characters and their
dynamics with the familiar ones?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnjO3dNDuyahBoa2P2buHfkUxGy68DTOoTxdCvE8Z6wZOr1DIWjHkvZg65YagGTKKyKx6IkjOjVk0k9_5vBBLbTUjjOV5OihTRmfSJwbnMn62Rd3ziZCYDmrS64GsbD542timlgZ8-Ajm8em3DKa_hw8fycUBgCVD8tt4TJ3XqizGyuin2AKehezot_ws/s584/a6ae0b061b767a1964c1cb0088bfe4c67f198648.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="584" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnjO3dNDuyahBoa2P2buHfkUxGy68DTOoTxdCvE8Z6wZOr1DIWjHkvZg65YagGTKKyKx6IkjOjVk0k9_5vBBLbTUjjOV5OihTRmfSJwbnMn62Rd3ziZCYDmrS64GsbD542timlgZ8-Ajm8em3DKa_hw8fycUBgCVD8tt4TJ3XqizGyuin2AKehezot_ws/w640-h426/a6ae0b061b767a1964c1cb0088bfe4c67f198648.webp" width="640" /></a></b></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Throughout P&P we hear nothing about Mr Bennet’s relations, and we
normally assume he doesn’t have any worth mentioning. The relations we do
meet—the Phillipses and Gardiners—are Mrs Bennet’s siblings.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The advantage to writers is that this gives us completely blank page to
fill in entirely as we wish. While I kept Mr B as an only child, I had free
rein to imagine his mother’s people, to work out why the Bennet girls didn’t
know very much about them, and to create situations where long-sundered family
could be reunited. So I co-opted a now-extinct Kentish baronetcy, the Palmers
of Wingham, as Mr Bennet’s generally unknown relations.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A key element was using these relations, rather then Netherfield, to
bring the Bingleys into play. I had masses of fun with Elizabeth’s cousin Palmer
(he’s barely related, really. Something like a third cousin by marriage) taking
a full role both as a dear friend to Darcy and Bingley, and being the bridge to
bring both young men into Elizabeth’s life.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">While I don’t think this affected the Darcy-Elizabeth dynamic at
all—they follow the familiar path of misunderstanding each other, poor
proposal, rethinking their attitudes and characters, to a happy ending, albeit
not in the way Austen herself did it—it did make a difference for Jane Bennet
and how she dealt with Bingley’s dithery nature and Caroline’s spite.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So our familiar characters do not differ in essentials, but in the
circumstances they find themselves.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Elizabeth Bennet embarks
on a journey to Kent in Worthy. How does this change of setting impact the story,
and what role does it play in the development of the characters?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The story actually has very little point of contact with Austen’s plot,
except in one particular: Georgiana Darcy’s and George Wickham’s attempted
elopement from Ramsgate. So unlike my first book, Mistress of Netherfield, this
one does not reframe the familiar events of P&P, but is a true variation
with original characters and a divergent plot. It was a little nerve-wracking,
to be honest. I obviously had to try and nail the characters as Jane wrote them
but put them into new, and testing, circumstance, without distortion...
enjoyable, but hard!<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That said, I’ve tried to keep the characters true to themselves, and
the development they undergo mirrors that of P&P. I want them to be
recogniseably the people we love, with their love story playing out against a
new backdrop.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In your novel, the
Bingleys and Mr. Darcy face tension and conflict with the Bennet family, more
or less as it happens in Pride and Prejudice. What challenges did you encounter
while weaving these elements into your story in an original way?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbbcIoIjGLGieEYJlgim8Lo_ET92DUlg-biCxcK1lIKrG-SiZ_bZ-ZvH1IEd1KvQICUmuNcvBsiUG9AmbhwQ08ZUp_8mdVNHbF9vuGcc0JEOd9gOPW7rlYuUQTR1or9Kt5ouXeagJYhi0p9ebhnaXNS1y0tACqq21YXrsxB9o73knqaNRL7DHdjuY1PWA/s250/Pnp-10-l.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="232" data-original-width="250" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbbcIoIjGLGieEYJlgim8Lo_ET92DUlg-biCxcK1lIKrG-SiZ_bZ-ZvH1IEd1KvQICUmuNcvBsiUG9AmbhwQ08ZUp_8mdVNHbF9vuGcc0JEOd9gOPW7rlYuUQTR1or9Kt5ouXeagJYhi0p9ebhnaXNS1y0tACqq21YXrsxB9o73knqaNRL7DHdjuY1PWA/w320-h297/Pnp-10-l.webp" width="320" /></a></b></div><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The greatest challenge for me was keeping them true to character,
without taking them over the top into caricature. Caroline Bingley, for
example, is a lady many JAFF writers love to hate. I see her as someone who’s
terribly insecure within the social structure of the time. She has wealth,
education and privilege, but she doesn’t have birth. No one will ever forget
she has her roots in trade. Her search for stability and improving her social
position motivates everything she does. So while she enters this story in a
different manner—as an unexpected guest of Elizabeth’s relations rather than as
mistress of the manor her brother is renting—it was important that I kept her
character and motivations the same as Austen showed them. Some of her actions,
too, to dissuade Jane Bennet will be recognisable, even if carried out in a way
that isn’t quite the same as Austen’s original.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Your book also
introduces the character George Wickham as an antagonist. We love to hate Jane
Austen’s bad boys, don’t we? What motivated your decision to include Wickham in
the plot, and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>does he play a different
role in the story's conflicts?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Austen’s bad boys were so intriguing, weren’t they? Wickham, John
Willoughby, Frank Churchill, Henry Crawford... if not mad, definitely bad and
dangerous to know!<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Since the book isn’t set in Meryton, and departs from Austen’s plot,
Wickham doesn’t join the militia or run away with Lydia. The two never meet.
But I knew from the beginning that I wanted to include the attempted Ramsgate
elopment (which of course is only spoken of in Darcy’s letter, never shown on
the page of the original) as a key plot point. To be honest, a scene in my head
between Lizzy and Wickham contending over a cowering Georgiana was the
motivation for the whole book. It was always going to be there. So I had to set
the book in Kent itself, and then come up with a reason for Lizzy being there.
And so we circle back to the idea of previously unknown Bennet relatives
re-establishing contact as a credible means of getting Lizzy into Kent.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wickham does not have a lot of ‘screen time’, if you like, but what he
does is (I hope!) exciting. This version of him is daring and dangerous, and
rather violent...<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Can you share some
insights into your writing process? Do you have any specific rituals or methods
that help you immerse yourself in the Regency world and how do you maintain
Jane Austen's writing style?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m still a voracious reader, and must reread Austen every couple of
years, so I’m quite familiar with her writings. Her use of words and style is
just beautiful. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to emulate her in any true
sense, but actually I find writing the cadences of the sentences relatively
easy. It’s far more formal than modern day English, of course, and I still have
to be careful to make is sound natural, rather than contrived, but generally it
flows well for me.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I write mostly in the afternoons. Mornings are spent pottering about
the house and garden—I’m very lucky, and live in a Georgian house, a former
vicarage, in Nottinghamshire, England. Much as we love the house, it’s a never
ending task to keep it looking good. So my routine is :walk the dog, work on
the house, and only when those tasks are done do I try and write. I don’t have
any specific rituals, but I do have one tip that works well for me. When I get
stuck or writer’s block descends and I can’t see how to carry on, I close down
my computer, pick up a notebook (I have dozens of pretty ones), find a pencil
and go to a different room entirely. I’ve been known to write dialogue using
the piano as my desk, for example. The change of environment as well as writing
method can kick start my groggy old brain into getting over whatever is
blocking it.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As an author in the
Austen variation genre, what do you find most rewarding about reimagining and
expanding upon classic stories like Pride and Prejudice?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC2TcALllWZj9LfQ76GXHYR6UUpPr8Db6YTheaU-tDwihV-5xI7V4jGUq-Gn5zQYwzDjmiokSsOGCgtLzp9TVT-vBwrnbOL0FM0_FKUonKU6NBYniAobulmSIXpJuJ2gubckQ5oKlck9zPqqJBPkW9Gx1VjppCxR-wUHrvZsarjaywJvQUi7SNyFFvxUM/s1914/Elizabeth%20Bennet.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1914" data-original-width="1280" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC2TcALllWZj9LfQ76GXHYR6UUpPr8Db6YTheaU-tDwihV-5xI7V4jGUq-Gn5zQYwzDjmiokSsOGCgtLzp9TVT-vBwrnbOL0FM0_FKUonKU6NBYniAobulmSIXpJuJ2gubckQ5oKlck9zPqqJBPkW9Gx1VjppCxR-wUHrvZsarjaywJvQUi7SNyFFvxUM/w268-h400/Elizabeth%20Bennet.jpg" width="268" /></a></b></div><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Oh, the privilege and joy of taking two beloved, iconic characters and
writing about them is definitely the most rewarding thing about writing stories
like Mistress of Netherfield, or Worthy. We know these characters well. We’ve
watched every possible adaptation of the book and we’ve virtually ingested the
text. We dream about the characters and weave fantasies around them: they’re
our friends, our enemies, our lovers. I suspect we’ve all grown up wanting to
be Elizabeth Bennet. As I say in my bio, writing Austenesque variations is the
closest I shall ever come to achieving that!<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So taking these characters into new situations is, really, the epitome
of loving fannishness. Asking myself, for example, how would a disastrous,
abusive first marriage change Elizabeth? Would her fire and spirit still be
there? How has her experience honed her, and yet allow her to remain
recognisably Elizabeth? How can I make her adventures and struggles speak to a
modern audience, without making her anachronistic and un-Austen-like? It’s
fascinating and fun. It’s a combination of the intellectual challenge of
correctly conveying Austen’s sublime characters and the creative delight in
coming up with new scenarios to explore with them.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Could you tell us
about your favorite Jane Austen novels and characters, and how they may have
influenced your own writing and character development in Worthy?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Well, Elizabeth for certain. Austen herself said she thought Elizabeth
to be “as delightful a creature as ever appeared in print, and how I shall be
able to tolerate those who do not like her at least I do not know”, and I can’t
but agree with her. What I particularly love is Austen is so clear-eyed about
Elizabeth’s faults, and so sly in poking fun, yet gives Elizabeth room to learn
to know herself and grow. She’s a character many young women will recognise and
identify with.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My other great love in the novels is Anne Elliot. Her reticence, good
judgement and intelligence is in stark contrast to the other characters in
Persuasion who belittle her—but they are the greatest crop of fools in any
Austen book, I think! But like Elizabeth, Anne has flaws. She is passive and,
frankly, a little bit doormat-y until she finally starts advocating for
herself, beginning with defying her father over visiting her old schoolfriend,
Mrs Smith. Anne, too, grows in strength, self-knowledge, and confidence.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That’s what I hope I’ve taken from Austen in my own writing: how to
write flawed, essentially very human characters whose quirks and personalities
will make the reader love them and want to *be* them, while the reader will
also see them evolve and grow to overcome their faults. Austen wrote wonderful
humans. I’m trying to emulate that.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Finally, what can
readers expect from Julia Winter in the future? Are there any upcoming projects
or new stories you'd like to share with<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>our readers?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The plot of another variation is percolating in my mind at the moment.
I’ve started gathering materials for it by drawing up family trees etc. It is
likely to be set entirely at Pemberley, where a widowed Mrs Bennet and her
daughters have found refuge with her husband’s favourite cousin, who married Mr
Robert Darcy on the death of his first wife, Lady Anne Fiztwilliam. “Our” Mr
Darcy returns to Pemberley to take up his role as master following his father’s
death, and faces hostility and danger on his arrival, not to mention finding
his step-mother’s companion is a certain pert Bennet girl...<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But I also write in different genres with different pennames, and I
have a YA science fiction novel that must be finished first!<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></p><p class="Noindent" style="text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 150%;">About Julia<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="Noindent" style="text-indent: 1cm;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
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</w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: 1cm;">Once Julia was a communications specialist working with several UK
government departments. These days she's thankfully free of all that, and
writing full time. She lives in the depths of the Nottinghamshire countryside
with her husband and Mavis, a Yorkie-Bichon cross with a bark several times
bigger than she is.</span></span></div><p></p><p class="Noindent" style="text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></p><p class="Noindent" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Contact Julia<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: justify;">
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB"><a href="mailto:juliawinterfiction@gmail.com">Email</a></span><span lang="EN-GB"> | </span><span lang="EN-GB"><a href="https://juliawinterfiction.com/">Website</a></span><span lang="EN-GB"> | </span><span lang="EN-GB"><a href="https://twitter.com/fiction_julia">Twitter</a></span><span lang="EN-GB"> | </span><span lang="EN-GB"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/JuliaWinterFiction">Facebook</a></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6q_DWfWzeTJrcfOOeAwAnDv-BBv8OI82LsmmMUsMbTPJZiwzDNmn97WIvwLG8CS03pTAxF6wuXwpu2Lyam7dG1RClXzEGee3lON3PCxxp41lDaup_p8fPh9vrJiVVcf1eoqjrdGPdKlyfj3ALppgl8cGr81_TdfX57ivqTfUGgc_HLv3atVIAnGrYxI/s900/Worthy900.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6q_DWfWzeTJrcfOOeAwAnDv-BBv8OI82LsmmMUsMbTPJZiwzDNmn97WIvwLG8CS03pTAxF6wuXwpu2Lyam7dG1RClXzEGee3lON3PCxxp41lDaup_p8fPh9vrJiVVcf1eoqjrdGPdKlyfj3ALppgl8cGr81_TdfX57ivqTfUGgc_HLv3atVIAnGrYxI/w426-h640/Worthy900.jpg" width="426" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span><p></p><p class="Noindent" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://thesecretunderstandingofthehearts.blogspot.com/p/worthy-by-julia-winter-excerpt.html">Read an excerpt</a></b></span></p><p class="Noindent" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199179084-worthy"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: large;">Goodreads Link</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="Noindent" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b><b style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 150%;">Buy
Links</span></b></p>
<p class="Noindent" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><a name="_Hlk495657723"></a><a name="_Hlk495658347"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk495657723;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></a><a href="https://books2read.com/Worthy-A-Pride-and-Prejudice-Variation" style="font-family: Georgia, "serif"; text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><span style="font-size: large;">Universal link to digital stores</span></a></p>
<p class="Noindent" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk495658347;"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk495657723;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Worthy-Prejudice-Variation-Julia-Winter-ebook/dp/B0CJVV5S1J" style="text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Amazon.com</span></a><span style="text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";"> | </span></span><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Worthy-Prejudice-Variation-Julia-Winter-ebook/dp/B0CJVV5S1J" style="text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Amazon.co.uk</span></a><a name="_Hlk495325947" style="text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">| </span></a><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1144130002" style="text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">B&N</span></a><span style="text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";"> | </span></span><a href="https://www.kobo.com/gb/en/ebook/worthy-44" style="text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Kobo</span></a><span style="text-indent: 1cm;"></span><span style="text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">
| </span></span><a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1458044" style="text-indent: 1cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Smashwords</span></a></span></p><p class="Noindent" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="Noindent" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">GIVEAWAY </span></b></p><p class="Noindent" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="line-height: 150%;"><b>Between 31 October and 10
November</b>, enter </span><span lang="EN-GB"><b><a href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/1b5565292/?"><span style="line-height: 150%;">this
Rafflecopter</span></a> </b></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="line-height: 150%;">for the chance to win a <b>$20 (or
equivalent) Amazon voucher.</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="Noindent" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 1cm;"><b><br /></b></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-74048188709298630802023-10-26T15:29:00.000+02:002023-10-26T15:29:46.583+02:00AUSTEN MINDFULNESS: SENSE AND SENSIBILITY<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkarx_2F7yly3XwNcjSQi0eLDYE-TL97MrK2-y89xWM21h54NHG8DduKnt34Q6ppfJb6SoH-Fv3qbl1YSjhkXWFmlfBohJAAdqZlmSNb3NmZwMi5ogPXUtYyB81ooZt_rSGwlqtImJ9n58gd1q55HhtyvVqCFVpn_4CASp40_G0UtPI6k-UZVqhfpFu40/s500/thompson-ss-1995-end-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="500" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkarx_2F7yly3XwNcjSQi0eLDYE-TL97MrK2-y89xWM21h54NHG8DduKnt34Q6ppfJb6SoH-Fv3qbl1YSjhkXWFmlfBohJAAdqZlmSNb3NmZwMi5ogPXUtYyB81ooZt_rSGwlqtImJ9n58gd1q55HhtyvVqCFVpn_4CASp40_G0UtPI6k-UZVqhfpFu40/w640-h362/thompson-ss-1995-end-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Jane Austen's novels offer valuable insights into human behaviour
and relationships, and there are mindfulness lessons that can be gleaned from
her works. While mindfulness as a concept and practice didn't exist during Austen's
time, her keen observations of human nature and her characters' journeys can
still offer wisdom for contemporary readers seeking to cultivate mindfulness
and emotional intelligence.<span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">In <b><u>Sense and Sensibility</u></b>, Jane Austen's characters and their
experiences can be seen as exemplars of various aspects of mindfulness,
including emotional balance, self-awareness, empathy, patience, and
contentment. Her novel offers valuable insights into how individuals
can navigate life's challenges with mindfulness principles in mind.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Balancing Sensibility and Sense<o:p></o:p></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The title of the
novel itself highlights the themes of emotional sensibility and rational sense.
Elinor Dashwood represents sense, while Marianne embodies sensibility.
Mindfulness teaches us the importance of balancing these aspects. Elinor's
restraint and Marianne's emotional depth illustrate the need for both emotional
intelligence and rationality in our lives. Mindfulness encourages us to
acknowledge our emotions (<i>sensibility</i>) without letting them overwhelm us, and
to make thoughtful, balanced decisions (<i>sense</i>).</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Emotional
Regulation<o:p></o:p></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Elinor Dashwood is a
prime example of emotional regulation. Throughout the novel, she faces personal
turmoil and disappointment but handles her emotions with remarkable composure.
This serves as a valuable lesson in how mindfulness can help us manage our
emotions in a healthy and constructive manner, rather than being swept away by
them.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Mindful Listening<o:p></o:p></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Elinor is an
excellent listener, often offering a patient ear to Marianne and other
characters. Mindfulness encourages active and empathetic listening, being fully
present in a conversation without judgment. Elinor's ability to be attentive to
others' concerns and feelings demonstrates the practice of mindfulness in her
interactions.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Acceptance and
Patience</u></b> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The novel's characters face numerous challenges and
setbacks. Elinor, in particular, must wait for her own happiness. Mindfulness
emphasizes acceptance and patience in the face of adversity. Elinor's
resilience and ability to endure hardships with grace can serve as a model for
practicing mindfulness in times of difficulty.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Self-awareness and
Self-reflection<o:p></o:p></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Elinor often reflects
on her own feelings and thoughts. This self-awareness and self-reflection are
integral aspects of mindfulness. Mindfulness encourages us to become more aware
of our inner world and to examine our thoughts and emotions without judgment. Elinor's
introspection can be seen as a form of mindfulness practice.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Gratitude and
Contentment<o:p></o:p></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Elinor embodies a
sense of contentment and gratitude for the good aspects of her life, even in
the face of challenges. Mindfulness teaches us to find contentment in the
present moment and appreciate what we have rather than constantly seeking more.
Elinor's ability to find joy in life's simple pleasures aligns with the
practice of mindfulness.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">In summary, Jane Austen's novels provide a rich source of
wisdom on human behavior and relationships, which can be applied to mindfulness
and emotional intelligence. Her characters' experiences and interactions offer
valuable lessons on self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, gratitude,
social awareness, patience, and mindful living. Reading her works with a
mindful perspective can enhance our understanding of these concepts and help us
apply them in our own lives.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-75099822945969196892023-10-23T09:00:00.001+02:002023-10-23T09:00:00.150+02:00BOOK REVIEW: JANE AND THE FINAL MYSTERY BY STEPHANIE BARRON<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCPg_ic8_iwzZp6_Voi-N4tai5yUzlHeZ7gZEOtJDAjkeQOB3I_J_h17MEmdJ5TlVtZlDWnVKKFXW34-EGSVNMLijhSocWSvsYikCuF2DeAoR0IGy1LCO0Ucvs7R2WAa4UJeHYl8nclOJgLbtp_OFyytz2sdxSsNatG6dYJR6L1bt3K31cD8oWYbwTrM/s1080/Jane%20and%20the%20Final%20Mystery%20Book%20Tour%20graphic%20.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCPg_ic8_iwzZp6_Voi-N4tai5yUzlHeZ7gZEOtJDAjkeQOB3I_J_h17MEmdJ5TlVtZlDWnVKKFXW34-EGSVNMLijhSocWSvsYikCuF2DeAoR0IGy1LCO0Ucvs7R2WAa4UJeHYl8nclOJgLbtp_OFyytz2sdxSsNatG6dYJR6L1bt3K31cD8oWYbwTrM/w640-h640/Jane%20and%20the%20Final%20Mystery%20Book%20Tour%20graphic%20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Stephanie Barron, the talented author known for her Being a
Jane Austen Mystery series, brings us a captivating and bittersweet conclusion
to a beloved literary journey in "JANE AND THE FINAL MYSTERY." As
winter turns to spring in March 1817, we find Jane Austen's health slowly declining,
threatening to silence her quill and halt the progress on her latest
manuscript. But when a chilling mystery unfurls at her nephew Edward's former
school, Winchester College, Jane's indomitable spirit and unwavering curiosity
propel her forward into a world of secrets and deception.<span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The heart of this novel beats with the compelling mystery
surrounding the death of a senior pupil at Winchester College, Arthur
Prendergast. In the pocket of the deceased, a note emerges, incriminating the
young William Heathcote, a beloved family friend. Winchester College is a realm
unto itself, replete with its unique language, rites of passage, and a culture
of cruel hazing and perilous pranks. As Jane races against her own
deteriorating health, she endeavors to clear William's name and unravel the
enigmatic threads of this case.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Stephanie Barron's brilliant writing shines through once
again as she masterfully combines the authentic historical backdrop and
biographical details of Jane Austen's life with an intricately woven plot.
Barron captures Austen's voice in a manner that is both respectful and
impeccable, making the characters and the setting come alive. Through Barron's
words, Jane Austen's essence resonates, and the final season of her life
unfolds with touching authenticity.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Throughout the series, Barron has adeptly merged Austen's
world with the art of mystery, and "JANE AND THE FINAL MYSTERY" is no
exception. The novel's storyline is as engaging as it is emotionally resonant.
Jane's struggles against her own mortality and her relentless pursuit of the
truth elicit deep emotions, making this novel a fitting and poignant send-off
for the series.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Barron's impeccable research and evocative writing style
take readers on a journey back in time, immersing them in the nuances of a
bygone era. It's as if you've stepped into the pages of a Jane Austen novel,
replete with courtly language, richly drawn characters, and holiday
celebrations of two centuries past.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">In addition to the compelling narrative, "JANE AND THE
FINAL MYSTERY" is enriched with a cast of well-drawn characters and a plot
full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the end. Stephanie
Barron's ability to mimic Jane Austen's prose style is nothing short of
remarkable.</p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">"JANE AND THE FINAL MYSTERY" <br /> skillfully combines history, mystery, and the enduring charm
of Jane Austen's world. For fans of the series, this book is a must-read, a
final tribute to a beloved amateur sleuth. It's a poignant and unforgettable
conclusion that will leave you with a sense of fulfillment and appreciation for
the remarkable journey we've been on.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSeajDyEGFBDNbWFwvzU9drxLnGIRx-UNr5SMcXx-GJDXWrYy3YoSWLC-2rJSn7y319UseXjv-E1FDATm8Cr8PNGpBpknvkBuOrr3epSA90_NT8J1SJttFkOXU3hvjbENlFrPn8bsJMNURUHcNXN8gckyVa_Plny63bKHfSkpn9W_uDnmPMjEE8Q7zxnU/s1500/Jane%20and%20the%20Final%20Mystery%20cover%202023.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSeajDyEGFBDNbWFwvzU9drxLnGIRx-UNr5SMcXx-GJDXWrYy3YoSWLC-2rJSn7y319UseXjv-E1FDATm8Cr8PNGpBpknvkBuOrr3epSA90_NT8J1SJttFkOXU3hvjbENlFrPn8bsJMNURUHcNXN8gckyVa_Plny63bKHfSkpn9W_uDnmPMjEE8Q7zxnU/s320/Jane%20and%20the%20Final%20Mystery%20cover%202023.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟</span>
(5/5 stars)</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u>ABOUT THE AUTHOR</u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p><b>Stephanie Barron</b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> is a graduate of Princeton and Stanford, where she received her Masters in History as an Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Fellow in the Humanities. Her novel, THAT CHURCHILL WOMAN (Ballantine, January 22, 2019) traces the turbulent career of Jennie Jerome, Winston Churchill's captivating American mother. Barron is perhaps best known for the critically acclaimed Jane Austen Mystery Series, in which the intrepid and witty author of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE details her secret detective career in Regency England. A former intelligence analyst for the CIA, Stephanie—who also writes under the name Francine Mathews—drew on her experience in the field of espionage for such novels as JACK 1939, which The New Yorker described as "the most deliciously high-concept thriller imaginable." She lives and works in Denver, CO.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKOMO-xj1wsWiF8mPXcl1sFYOy1Vh7Z07CB3C4hyphenhyphenjDH54Ym-JQ_3sNaTbGDmBYrTXShZx2Hya7w8eNGMpaW0TnS63LvexwTMa6X4Ih2s8uTGvnMLi7rzQHCkiSmVzKZYqxjOheyo_aqNnGyEYikiX3IWVRoBI3k_PdKBSVDPqm3NmmmUpZ-7A6H3V1FvQ/s500/Stephanie%20Barron%20headshot%202022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKOMO-xj1wsWiF8mPXcl1sFYOy1Vh7Z07CB3C4hyphenhyphenjDH54Ym-JQ_3sNaTbGDmBYrTXShZx2Hya7w8eNGMpaW0TnS63LvexwTMa6X4Ih2s8uTGvnMLi7rzQHCkiSmVzKZYqxjOheyo_aqNnGyEYikiX3IWVRoBI3k_PdKBSVDPqm3NmmmUpZ-7A6H3V1FvQ/s320/Stephanie%20Barron%20headshot%202022.jpg" width="213" /></a></span></div><p></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 17.12px; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://francinemathews.com/"><b>WEBSITE</b></a></span><b> | </b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/francinemathews"><b>FACEBOOK</b></a></span><b> | </b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/stephaniebarronfrancinemathews/"><b>INSTAGRAM</b></a></span><b> | </b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/fmathews1777/_saved/"><b><span face=""Arial","sans-serif"" style="mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">PINTEREST</span></b></a><!--[if !supportNestedAnchors]--><a name="_Hlk92552066"></a><!--[endif]--></span><b> | </b><b><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/fmathews1777/_saved/">BOOKBUB</a> |</b></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-38695140590665744442023-10-18T09:00:00.001+02:002023-10-18T09:00:00.144+02:00NEW RELEASE! AMANDA KAI, MISS BINGLEY AND THE BARON: AUTHOR GUEST POST, EXCERPT AND GIVEAWAY<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5_19EyTvR_Bh2eI_mSolT1dqMBUYq-QN8IeMu-D8B_Qb0Zac1gBTEhpKIuYk0X-NpOhqacuM3ImPIUd328EU0p9ErjIQChyphenhyphengkQ5JBo4Ye9XqIo1b9DQPi-83uziSq6MamOTtJcaGx1SDswSQvRCbJwoUrBSusoTTFWeSzN1-v4zOodsn6SzJesLYAyI/s1080/MissBingleyAndTheBaron-Static-Insta.png" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5_19EyTvR_Bh2eI_mSolT1dqMBUYq-QN8IeMu-D8B_Qb0Zac1gBTEhpKIuYk0X-NpOhqacuM3ImPIUd328EU0p9ErjIQChyphenhyphengkQ5JBo4Ye9XqIo1b9DQPi-83uziSq6MamOTtJcaGx1SDswSQvRCbJwoUrBSusoTTFWeSzN1-v4zOodsn6SzJesLYAyI/w640-h640/MissBingleyAndTheBaron-Static-Insta.png" width="640" /></a></div><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><i>Dear readers and Jane Austen aficionados,</i></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><i>We're thrilled to have the talented author Amanda Kai with us today to celebrate the release of her latest literary delight, "Miss Bingley and the Baron." As we open the pages of her enchanting story, we're transported to the world of Regency romance, where love blossoms under the veil of disguise and false pretenses.<span></span></i></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><i>Amanda's tale, which can be enjoyed as a standalone or as a companion to her earlier novel "Not In Want of a Wife," promises to captivate your heart. What happens when Caroline Bingley sets her sights on a wealthy baron, only to discover that he's not who he seems to be? This delightful spring and summer romance unfolds with a touch of mystery and a dash of intrigue.</i></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><i>Join us in this exclusive journey into the pages of "Miss Bingley and the Baron" as Amanda Kai shares an excerpt from her novel, and stay tuned for an exciting giveaway to celebrate this release.</i></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Don't miss out on this literary adventure that combines Jane Austen's world with Amanda Kai's unique storytelling. Welcome, Amanda! MG💕</i></span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><b><u>Amanda Kai's Guest Post</u></b></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">Hi Maria Grazia, it’s always a pleasure to
be here at My Jane Austen Book Club. Thanks for helping me celebrate the
release of <i><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Miss-Bingley-Baron-Companion-Other-ebook/dp/B0C2JGXRJ1/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=hrsY4&content-id=amzn1.sym.579192ca-1482-4409-abe7-9e14f17ac827&pf_rd_p=579192ca-1482-4409-abe7-9e14f17ac827&pf_rd_r=138-3959992-9015422&pd_rd_wg=Meyty&pd_rd_r=fa460933-5210-4003-8201-f9f3100d152f&ref_=aufs_ap_sc_dsk">Miss Bingley and the Baron</a></b>!<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">This story is a companion to my earlier
novel <i>Not In Want of a Wife- a Pride and Prejudice Variation</i>, but it can
be enjoyed as a standalone.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">I love Regency romances where somebody
falls in love under false pretenses or under some sort of disguise. So when I
had the idea to make Caroline Bingley fall in love with somebody who she
thought was a gardener, but was actually a baron in disguise, I thought to
myself <i>“this is exactly the sort of story I would gobble up!”</i> My hope is that
you will too.<span></span></span></p><!--more--><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">This tale takes place in the spring and
summer of 1812. Caroline goes up to Scarborough with Mr. and Mrs. Hurst just
after Bingley and Jane’s wedding. Almost immediately, she sets her sights on
capturing the wealthy baron next door. She meets a man on the baron’s estate
whom she presumes to be one of his gardeners, not knowing that he is actually
the baron himself.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">Lord Theodore Connally has been leery of
fortune hunters ever since an overzealous lady tried to trap him into marriage.
Worried that Miss Bingley will be the same, Theo decides to test her by trading
places with his best friend, the gardener’s son, who is to become a clergyman.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Read an excerpt</span></u></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">The sun was still low when Theo began work
on the pear orchard. He knew that his two under gardeners ought to be doing
this sort of thing, but as usual, they were slacking off, nowhere to be seen on
the grounds, and he had no inclination to bang on their cottage doors and wake
them. He meant to replace Bill and Jack soon, and hire additional men to assist
Mr. Hodge with the restorations to the grounds. He had plans to design a
country garden like those he had seen in Ireland, and to add a water feature.
Additionally, he hoped to manage the orchard and harvest a good crop this year.
Too long had it lain overgrown, bearing almost no fruit, and what little fruit
it bore left to rot on the trees. With proper care, he knew he could make it
beautiful and fruitful again. This was the first order of business, to ready
the trees for a summer harvest before they blossomed. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">Theo was up on a ladder, pruning a pear
tree, when he spotted a glimpse of yellow coming towards him. The lady seemed
exhausted and wet. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">Did
she come from the beach?</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">He had already been down to the beach
earlier that morning, and knew it must be about high tide by now. He wondered
what a lady might be doing all alone on such a morning, and where she could
have come from. She did not seem to notice him as she pecked her way through
the rows of pear trees, trying to avoid being scratched. He watched her remove
her cap in frustration after it got caught on a particularly long branch. A
tumble of red curls fell out of her coif. Theo felt his breath hitch. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">Miss
Bingley!</span></i><span lang="EN-US"> At least, he presumed her to be Miss
Bingley. He supposed it could be her sister, or perhaps even her maid- which
might account for her state of dress- but it was clearly the redheaded woman he
had seen in the carriage the day before. As she passed by his ladder, he called
out. “I say there, what are you doing here?”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">Startled, the woman looked around, then up
into the tree, where she finally spotted him. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">“Sir! You gave me a fright. What do you
mean by hiding up in that tree?”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">“I am pruning it. But you have yet to
answer my question. Why are you trespassing?”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">She pushed her shoulders back and stuck her
chin out indignantly. “I am merely passing through. I was walking along the
beach, but got caught by the tide, and so was forced to seek higher ground for
my safety. I had no choice but to trespass. I am sure that your master would
not deny a lady safe passage through his land in such an instance.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">“My master?”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">“Yes, the man who owns this land. Lord
Conrad, or whatever his name is. The baron.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">She
thinks I am a servant,</span></i><span lang="EN-US"> Theo realized. He supposed,
dressed as he was and performing a servant’s work, he should expect nothing
less.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">“Do you think that your master would want
his gardener scaring a lady off of his land when she needed safety?”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">Theo descended the ladder to face her.
“Madam, you are welcome to pass through Lord <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Connally’s</i> land.” He looked to see if her cheeks would redden at
his correction, but her face remained as proud as ever. “You were down by the
beach, you say? You must have walked a long way. Where are you headed?”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">“I seek the lane, that I might find my way
back to Fairclough Hall.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">“If it is Fairclough you are bound for,
then that way would be more direct.” He pointed. “The lane is long and
indirect. It will take you two miles to return by that route. If you cut
through the orchard, you will find yourself in the moors which border
Fairclough in half the time. A small gate exists between the properties, built
some generations ago as a mark of friendship between the two families.” He
neglected to tell her that the gate was long in disuse, had been locked, and
that she would probably have to climb the wall to get over it.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">“Thank you, sir. Pass on my regards to your
master, and thank him for allowing me to trespass. I can assure you, it will
not happen again.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">“Take care, Madam, should you find yourself
walking the beach again. As you have seen, the tides here can be dangerous.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">He expected some reply, but she had already
set off in the heading he had given. It was only after she was too far to see
that he realized she had not even given him her name.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span><i style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Miss Bingley and the Baron</span></i><span lang="EN-US" style="text-align: center;"> is now available on <a href="https://storyoriginapp.com/universalbooklinks/fd1471fa-daf3-11ed-a7ea-b72103822f39">Amazon and Kindle Unlimited</a>.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Giveaway</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTUh8-Ef4xSSEg7IzoPsjE_dl84wfaahL8gsfT6GLnZEY5mMn2waQy7J3TiTk4k1n7yE2DqJL6lFt9yRzwqZfU6vBxrdiSl-B-9z3fgPPlh7t1v3oJZDsEqlaLsARrhhhn-1C_hM6hBKaIuoFQd0-uh1G6Pqi43b3vlUgTv0VFpyvrGvLHv6ArU0d7bE/s1080/Miss%20Bingley%20and%20the%20Baron%20Giveaway!.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTUh8-Ef4xSSEg7IzoPsjE_dl84wfaahL8gsfT6GLnZEY5mMn2waQy7J3TiTk4k1n7yE2DqJL6lFt9yRzwqZfU6vBxrdiSl-B-9z3fgPPlh7t1v3oJZDsEqlaLsARrhhhn-1C_hM6hBKaIuoFQd0-uh1G6Pqi43b3vlUgTv0VFpyvrGvLHv6ArU0d7bE/w640-h640/Miss%20Bingley%20and%20the%20Baron%20Giveaway!.png" width="640" /></a></b></div><b><br /><u><br /></u></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To celebrate the release of <i><b>Miss
Bingley and the Baron</b></i>, Amanda Kai is hosting a giveaway.</span><span style="font-family: Lato, "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">One (1) winner will receive a Miss Bingley and the Baron
gift package containing:</span></p>
<p style="margin-left: 36pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">A paperback copy of Miss Bingley and the Baron</span></p>
<p style="margin-left: 36pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">A paperback copy of Not In Want of a Wife</span></p>
<p style="margin-left: 36pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">A necklace with the quote from Pride and Prejudice “I declare after
all there is no enjoyment like reading!”</span></p>
<p style="margin-left: 36pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">A 3-oz bag of “Caroline Bingley” inspired tea from <a href="https://www.adagio.com/signature_blend/blend.html?blend=118497" target="_blank">Adagio Teas</a>.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">Two (2) winners will each receive:</span></p>
<p style="margin-left: 36pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">A paperback copy of Miss Bingley and the Baron</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">Two (2) winners will each receive:</span></p>
<p style="margin-left: 36pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">An ebook (epub) copy of Miss Bingley and the Baron</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Giveaway runs until Midnight CST on 11/18/2023. Click the link to the giveaway below to see full details. No purchase necessary.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; font-family: "Lato","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt;"><a href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f99c8cdf2/? ">Enter the giveaway</a><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; font-family: Lato, "sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;"><u><span style="font-size: medium;">About the author</span></u><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; font-family: Lato, "sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;"><u></u></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB7cQJXGjMAdGjHieFUtF4Te8eCgXPXoh7XRa1IFGiNU3Ercx6W-t6_FsVtQNnr08liRZuWgbf_aXmyhHdj-is5xPq1Iw_Ci_2c028GIlyYK8blq83ItGitWNJTyYFYBUw3B5qvEIw4oQwbL7AhNcDWoITidaUA7pdJazRE7sYk6vig3gA3Y2WpQ1s2Ko/s3000/P26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="2400" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB7cQJXGjMAdGjHieFUtF4Te8eCgXPXoh7XRa1IFGiNU3Ercx6W-t6_FsVtQNnr08liRZuWgbf_aXmyhHdj-is5xPq1Iw_Ci_2c028GIlyYK8blq83ItGitWNJTyYFYBUw3B5qvEIw4oQwbL7AhNcDWoITidaUA7pdJazRE7sYk6vig3gA3Y2WpQ1s2Ko/w512-h640/P26.jpg" width="512" /></a></u></b></div><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></u></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Amanda Kai’s love of period dramas
and classic literature inspires her historical romances and other
romances. She is the author of several
stories inspired by Jane Austen, including Not In Want of a Wife, Elizabeth’s
Secret Admirer, and Marriage and Ministry.
Prior to becoming an author, Amanda enjoyed a successful career as a
professional harpist, and danced ballet for twenty years. When she’s not diving
into the realm of her imagination, Amanda lives out her own happily ever after
in Texas with her husband and three children.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> <b><a href="http://www.authoramandakai.wixsite.com/home">Amanda's website</a></b></span><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-52355287804617888032023-10-16T09:00:00.001+02:002023-10-16T09:00:00.144+02:00JANE AND THE FINAL MYSTERY, INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR STEPHANIE BARRON<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"></span></i></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1mrV5ZrM9tCwN3BIXxQZienBSNuee10jPNitvh2Wlxq-1RnTnss2Z8pWfuzGCt5CRFYRqiNCpsYCnezEkawalvp409Zx4yBzq2xzP_3cNlz-JuSh7Us_IwqlZwPoBUHTunF-f6Sc6JdzMuVPAeHvtFhr6KWqoBr4nOFbwuO_mpiW-feKTTUn4i02A9M/s1080/Jane%20and%20the%20Final%20Mystery%20Book%20Tour%20graphic%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1mrV5ZrM9tCwN3BIXxQZienBSNuee10jPNitvh2Wlxq-1RnTnss2Z8pWfuzGCt5CRFYRqiNCpsYCnezEkawalvp409Zx4yBzq2xzP_3cNlz-JuSh7Us_IwqlZwPoBUHTunF-f6Sc6JdzMuVPAeHvtFhr6KWqoBr4nOFbwuO_mpiW-feKTTUn4i02A9M/w640-h640/Jane%20and%20the%20Final%20Mystery%20Book%20Tour%20graphic%20.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></b></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Dear fellow Jane Austen enthusiasts and mystery lovers,</i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">It's a delightful honour to kick off the blog tour for
Stephanie Barron's latest novel, <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Jane-Final-Mystery-Being-Austen/dp/1641295058">"JANE AND THE FINAL MYSTERY."</a></b> As we
gather here, ready to embark on a literary journey that promises both intrigue
and bittersweet reflection, we have the unique privilege of delving into the
mind of one of the world's most beloved authors, Jane Austen, as envisioned by
the talented Stephanie Barron.</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">In this beautifully crafted book, Barron invites us to step
into the final days of Jane Austen's life, where her indomitable spirit and
unquenchable curiosity drive her to solve a mystery that hits close to home.
Based on true events from Austen's life, this novel promises to be a fitting
tribute to the woman whose wit and wisdom continue to captivate readers around
the globe.</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">But the excitement doesn't stop here. In an exclusive treat
for our readers, we have the privilege of a one-on-one <b>interview with the
brilliant author herself,</b> <b>Stephanie Barron</b>. </span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">So, grab your favorite tea, settle into a cozy spot, and let
the adventure begin as we step into the world of Stephanie Barron's Jane Austen
mysteries. It's a journey that promises to be as captivating and enchanting as
the works of the great Austen herself.</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Without further ado, let's dive into our interview with
Stephanie Barron and discover the secrets behind the mysteries that continue to
keep us turning the pages.</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Stay tuned, dear readers, for a delightful exploration of
literature, history, and the enduring legacy of Jane Austen. My review of the book is coming soon!</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy reading! </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><i style="text-align: left;">Maria Grazia💕</i></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></b></span></p><a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;">INTERVIEW WITH STEPHANIE BARRON </span></b></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;">Jane and the Final Mystery</span></i></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;">
is your fifteenth and concluding novel in the Being the Jane Austen Mystery
series. Can you share your inspiration for the story?<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As with all the Jane mysteries, the plotting
is multi-layered and drawn from the particular context of Jane’s life, her
extended family’s concerns, and the greater context of British society. I’ve
brought Jane over the course of fifteen novels to her final months—she died in
Winchester in July 1817—but I had no desire to set <i>Final Mystery</i> around
her deathbed. The possibility of using Winchester as a setting, however,
intrigued me. I knew that all of Edward Austen Knight’s sons were educated at
Winchester College, the oldest boys’ public school in England, along with
James’s son Edward, who had recently gone up to Oxford but spent a good part of
his holidays in 1817 with his aunt Jane at Chawton Cottage. I decided to send
Jane and Edward to Winchester over Easter Week, 1817, when Edward would have
been down from Oxford and the rest of the Austen family were gathered in
Berkshire with Aunt Jane Perrot following the death of Mrs. Austen’s brother, James
Leigh-Perrot, in late March. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The events take place in Winchester,
Englandin 1817 when Jane investigates the murder of a Winchester College
schoolboy. Can you share who the characters are in the story and how they
relate to real people in her life? <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When I looked into that year, I realized that
Jane went to Winchester for medical treatment at the urging of Elizabeth
Heathcote, who lived in the Cathedral Close—a collection of ecclesiastical
properties in the Winchester Cathedral’s walled park. Elizabeth was one of
Jane’s oldest friends, the sister of Harris Bigg-Wither whom Jane had rejected
as a suitor when she was 26, and the mother of Edward’s old school friend Will
Heathcote, who was in his final year as a student at the College. (It was
Elizabeth Heathcote who found Jane’s lodgings on New College Street that May and
it was her surgeon, Lyford, who treated Jane before her death.)William
Heathcote was the grandson of a baronet, and eventually inherited the title,
but not the estate of Hursley Hall or its attendant wealth, for complicated
reasons. He was also cited as critical to maintaining peace at Winchester
before he went on to Oxford in the fall of 1817, which made him
interesting--Winchester had recently survived a major fire that William
witnessed, and in 1818 it suffered a violent student rebellion in which the
headmaster and dean were taken hostage. I knew the school and its personalities
were the crux of the Winchester story, and I’m always thrilled when Jane’s life
connects so naturally to broader events wherever she happens to be living.
Finally, I’d begun the entire series with Harris Bigg-Wither and his
unsuccessful proposal of marriage, so bringing him back for a cameo in his
nephew’s story, at the close of Jane’s life, felt like a wonderful series arc.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What was your research process? Did you
discover anything surprising or enlightening?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I started, of course, with Jane’s letters,
and then with the memoir Edward eventually wrote of her life, which became <i>The
Austen Family Record.</i> It was remarkable to note the numerous misfortunes
that struck the family in the late winter and spring of 1817. Henry was
bankrupt and taking Holy Orders, but had nothing to live on and was mooching on
Chawton Cottage; brothers Edward, Frank, and Uncle Leigh-Perrot lost a great
deal of money in Henry’s failed banks,limiting their ability to support the
Austen women; Edward was being sued for false inheritance by claimants to his
Hampshire estates; and Charles was shipwrecked and called up before an
Admiralty Board—the equivalent of a court-martial. Jane’s ill-health coincided
with wealthy Leigh-Perrot’s death, and to the Austens’ shock and dismay he left
next to nothing of his estate directly to her family. I believe that had their
finances been in better order, Jane might have been treated by a physician in
London—which would not have made a difference in outcomes, probably, but
accounts perhaps for her reliance on Mr. Lyford in nearby Winchester.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I was fortunate to find a biography of
William Heathcote, with letters he wrote to his mother while a student at Winchester
College, and I consulted numerous contemporary accounts of schoolboy life
during the Regency period. I also found a record of the houses within the
Cathedral Close during Elizabeth’s residence at No. 11 with period maps and
blueprints which were useful. Finally, I used Roy Porter’s monumental work on
British medical history, <i>The Greatest Benefit to Mankind, </i>for medical
background on the period.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Even thoughsome readers know that Austen’s
fatal illness will take her life in July 1817, the story is optimistic and uplifting.
Was this an artistic choice, or do you think this was her outlook on life? <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Jane’s final letters from Winchester are
resolutely cheerful, despite her progressive weakening and decline. I’m
saddened that given the paucity of medical knowledge during the period, she was
inclined to blame herself for failing to cure herself, as though the power of
positive thinking was all that was needed. But my personal sense of Jane’s
psyche is that she had little time for what she regarded as hypochondriacal
self-indulgence. I chose to end the novel in that spirit, rather than a maudlin
one.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">After studying Austen’s life and work
for so many yearswhat do you think is her greatest legacy to us?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Her keen understanding of the human heart.
She explains us to ourselves, forgives us for our foibles, and points us in a
more positive direction. We read her in order to learn how to live.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Looking back on your journey with Jane,
has writing this series changed your life in any way?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In every possible way. I’ve spent thirty
years adrift on the sea of Jane’s mind. As she grew older, I grew older, and
both of us learned wisdom. There’s no better guide than Jane for coming to
peace with existence.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja5YuCGGVVYnjEQWKNm-uMC_ze6rKs9UUtDKKi91XPmrZMQMntC52UaMmLbyn_3oIfWzM0XppQr69yFx4UaH6heawEB42B1IBRwlKmQefBB4qHtyTIZsYgoZAxmPciTiBpbwVimBlZXOnoLFBWbXmYlPvXaV3AnznT51WtXyyjLln4ExWiALZnEo_A3JE/s1500/Jane%20and%20the%20Final%20Mystery%20cover%202023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja5YuCGGVVYnjEQWKNm-uMC_ze6rKs9UUtDKKi91XPmrZMQMntC52UaMmLbyn_3oIfWzM0XppQr69yFx4UaH6heawEB42B1IBRwlKmQefBB4qHtyTIZsYgoZAxmPciTiBpbwVimBlZXOnoLFBWbXmYlPvXaV3AnznT51WtXyyjLln4ExWiALZnEo_A3JE/w426-h640/Jane%20and%20the%20Final%20Mystery%20cover%202023.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">JANE AND THE FINAL MYSTERY: BOOK DESCRIPTION<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span lang="EN-US">The final volume of the critically acclaimed mystery series featuring
Jane Austen as amateur sleuth</span></b><span lang="EN-US"><br />
<br /></span></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">March 1817: As winter turns to spring, Jane Austen’s health is in slow decline,
and threatens to cease progress on her latest manuscript. But when her nephew
Edward brings chilling news of a death at his former school, Winchester
College, not even her debilitating ailment can keep Jane from seeking out the
truth. Arthur Prendergast, a senior pupil at the prestigious all-boys’ boarding
school, has been found dead in a culvert near the schoolgrounds—and in the
pocket of his drenched waistcoat is an incriminating note penned by the young
William Heathcote, the son of Jane’s dear friend Elizabeth. Winchester College
is a world unto itself, with its own language and rites of passage, cruel
hazing and dangerous pranks. Can Jane clear William’s name before her illness
gets the better of her?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Over the course of fourteen previous novels in the critically acclaimed Being a
Jane Austen Mystery series, Stephanie Barron has won the hearts of thousands of
fans—crime fiction aficionados and Janeites alike—with her tricky plotting and
breathtaking evocation of Austen’s voice. Now, she brings Jane’s final
season—and final murder investigation—to brilliant, poignant life in this
unforgettable conclusion.</span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">PURCHASE LINKS</span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://amzn.to/3QjJwU1"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">AMAZON</span></b></a><!--[if !supportNestedAnchors]--><a name="_Hlk93660399"></a><!--[endif]--></span><a name="_Hlk111811788"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">|</span></b></a><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/jane-and-the-final-mystery-stephanie-barron/1142911287">BARNES
& NOBLE</a><!--[if !supportNestedAnchors]--><a name="_Hlk146530040"></a><!--[endif]--> | <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/726207/jane-and-the-final-mystery-by-stephanie-barron/">PUBLISHER</a>|
</span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://bookshop.org/p/books/jane-and-the-final-mystery-stephanie-barron/19622646?ean=9781641295055"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">BOOKSHOP</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"> | </span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123650731-jane-and-the-final-mystery"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">GOODREADS</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: center;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;"><a name="_Hlk114675000"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">PRAISE
FOR JANE AND THE FINAL MYSTERY<o:p></o:p></span></b></a></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk114675000;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Poignant . . .
Elicits deep emotion out of Jane’s struggles against her own mortality.
This is a fitting send-off for a beautifully realized series.”—<b><i>Publishers
Weekly</i>, Starred Review<i><o:p></o:p></i></b></span></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk114675000;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Barron developed
Jane’s narrative voice by reading Austen’s collected and published
letters, and it is neither spoiler nor surprise to say that series readers
will be sorry to say goodbye to Jane Austen, amateur sleuth.”—<b><i>Booklist</i><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk114675000;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"[Barron] has
brilliantly combined authentic historical and biographical details with
skillful plotting and a credible evocation of Austen’s wry, distinctive
voice. She brings the English author’s final investigation to a poignant,
unforgettable close. Fans of this historical series will not be
disappointed.”—</span><b><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">First Clue</span></i><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIJNxIxvvHi5TZn_zv17XJiQ9DiJl-X_i0jE9AIZmoo8lxDW1RThk7iqEzdP2IJrq0oKsY64WHsv5nOIE-F4G8VVvyUkzAzcLvtEma3VKlXER-oyjxDySmVploP4qlnP3Ejuzpp5lpPuNNHpuTG4AsvnM_mwXBkt42KD8zTwb1-VmVm2-XnbgS7msbd3U/s500/Stephanie%20Barron%20headshot%202022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIJNxIxvvHi5TZn_zv17XJiQ9DiJl-X_i0jE9AIZmoo8lxDW1RThk7iqEzdP2IJrq0oKsY64WHsv5nOIE-F4G8VVvyUkzAzcLvtEma3VKlXER-oyjxDySmVploP4qlnP3Ejuzpp5lpPuNNHpuTG4AsvnM_mwXBkt42KD8zTwb1-VmVm2-XnbgS7msbd3U/w426-h640/Stephanie%20Barron%20headshot%202022.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><i><br /></i></b></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">ABOUT THE AUTHOR <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></p><div>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Stephanie Barron</span></span></b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> is a graduate of Princeton and Stanford,
where she received her Masters in History as an Andrew W. Mellon Foundation
Fellow in the Humanities. Her novel, THAT CHURCHILL WOMAN (Ballantine, January
22, 2019) traces the turbulent career of Jennie Jerome, Winston Churchill's
captivating American mother. Barron is perhaps best known for the critically
acclaimed Jane Austen Mystery Series, in which the intrepid and witty author of
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE details her secret detective career in Regency England. A
former intelligence analyst for the CIA, Stephanie—who also writes under the
name Francine Mathews—drew on her experience in the field of espionage for such
novels as JACK 1939, which The New Yorker described as "the most
deliciously high-concept thriller imaginable." She lives and works in
Denver, CO.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://francinemathews.com/"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">WEBSITE</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"> | </span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/francinemathews"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">FACEBOOK</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"> | </span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/stephaniebarronfrancinemathews/"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">INSTAGRAM</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"> | </span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/fmathews1777/_saved/"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">PINTEREST</span></b></a><!--[if !supportNestedAnchors]--><a name="_Hlk92552066"></a><!--[endif]--></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"> | </span></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/fmathews1777/_saved/">BOOKBUB</a> |<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17764.Stephanie_Barron"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">GOODREADS</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p></div>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-37923776745956557262023-10-07T08:30:00.001+02:002023-10-07T08:30:00.140+02:00SHANNON WINSLOW: DISCOVERING MR. KNIGHTLEY <p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDug9nmeN_wf-9E0kB03MleIuK77Az0KlnT8ph7eA06yqCUOMb99yAziV2Fl_l5BCIcMhNTm-F9xUHV_-lG-gJEcz8gp8yTKjzjs27nZvHHGA6NvU-Fzl7f2LbaTDFN7r0NyefbZCjRoX71KzHhl3KgNuUvdC4ko0s4fsX2Y8IwdobFWR_s8p4MhAJ6m0/s750/Emma-1996-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="490" data-original-width="750" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDug9nmeN_wf-9E0kB03MleIuK77Az0KlnT8ph7eA06yqCUOMb99yAziV2Fl_l5BCIcMhNTm-F9xUHV_-lG-gJEcz8gp8yTKjzjs27nZvHHGA6NvU-Fzl7f2LbaTDFN7r0NyefbZCjRoX71KzHhl3KgNuUvdC4ko0s4fsX2Y8IwdobFWR_s8p4MhAJ6m0/w640-h418/Emma-1996-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></div><i><br />(from Shannon Winslow)</i><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">Writing a novel takes a long time, so
authors need strong inspiration to carry them through. My inspiration (for this
book and all the others) comes from Jane Austen – from what she wrote, yes, but
just as much from what she <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">didn’t</i>
write. My mission, you see, is to fill in the blanks she left behind. I add on
to rather than varying from Austen’s timeless stories.<span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">As you know, Jane Austen’s novels are
written almost entirely from the heroine’s point of view. We readers see and
experience nearly everything from her perspective and her perspective alone. We
know how she thinks and feels about the events and the people that surround her.
We learn about her background and her family. But we generally learn very
little about the heroes of the books, except through the heroine.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">What was Mr. Darcy doing all the time he
was absent from the page? What happened to Colonel Brandon in India? How did Mr.
Knightley become “his own master” at such an early age? What happened to his
parents? Did he ever fall in love before Emma? And what can explain his
incredible forbearance towards the eccentric Mr. Woodhouse? These are things I
wanted to know, and so I set out to discover the answers in my recent
hero-point-of-view books – first Fitzwilliam Darcy, then Colonel Brandon, and
now <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Mr.
Knightley</i></b>, letting each one tell his story <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">in His Own Words</i></b>.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">Of the three Austen hero novels I’ve
written so far, Mr. Knightley’s story represented the biggest “blank.” About
all we know of his past from the original novel is that his parents apparently
died young, since Emma says that he’s always been his “own master.” That didn’t
give me much to go on, which was both the bad news AND the good news. Austen
hadn’t left me many clues, but then I didn’t have to worry about contradicting
her either. The possibilities were unlimited. So much scope for my imagination!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">As I said above, I set out to “discover”
the answers to all the questions that popped into my mind, because that’s what
the process of writing one of these books feels like to me. I start with what I
already know about the man, and then I keep digging until I unearth the rest,
until all the pieces of the puzzle finally fit together. What I ended up with
this time is a novel spanning three crucial time periods in George Knightley’s
life: his adolescence (age 15-17), the young man (age 23-24), and the “present
day” (the span of the original novel).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">Now I know what critical service Mr.
Woodhouse rendered George and his family long ago. Now I know what happened to
the rest of his family. Now I know the sad outcome of his first love, how that
became one more devastating experience of loss. I’ve seen how he persevered in
the face of great hardship – to save Donwell and to provide for his younger
brother – how his principles and character grew stronger through it all,
becoming the man Emma can’t help falling in love with in the end. Truth is, I
couldn’t help falling in love with him either!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">It was a complete delight discovering Mr.
Knightley’s story, and I hope you will enjoy getting to know this remarkable gentleman
of quiet dignity much better too.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-US"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Shannon Winslow</i></span></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-US"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-US"><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXcKpNg5MuMGNpPl8cMTi7JApDybI3gBiXIdg0PVlS0q8uXDgsYVga9pIiJK0uDc_p59hrsVaCRQLmYkJzRIavR1cA2G1yTbkSyNq0NeX6M2H4oP6cRzcWdMnjckYHuGXvXnkKM-HmE5xF8MrXCwW8cC_55yoyEDPfboG_VDpYJHTjrxyK3tFZgtgPpxw/s1275/Mr.%20K%20Cover_WEB_M.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1275" data-original-width="826" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXcKpNg5MuMGNpPl8cMTi7JApDybI3gBiXIdg0PVlS0q8uXDgsYVga9pIiJK0uDc_p59hrsVaCRQLmYkJzRIavR1cA2G1yTbkSyNq0NeX6M2H4oP6cRzcWdMnjckYHuGXvXnkKM-HmE5xF8MrXCwW8cC_55yoyEDPfboG_VDpYJHTjrxyK3tFZgtgPpxw/w414-h640/Mr.%20K%20Cover_WEB_M.jpg" width="414" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><i><br /></i></span></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">About the Book</span></u></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Mr. George Knightley. According to Emma
Woodhouse, you won’t see one in a hundred who is so clearly the gentleman.
Respected by all, he’s kind, unpretentious, and scrupulously honest, with an
air so remarkably good that it’s unfair to compare other men to him. We also
know he’s been his “own master” from a young age. But Jane Austen tells us little
more.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">What were his early years like, and how did
he lose his parents? A man in his mid-thirties, he must have had at least one
romance along the way. Did it end badly? Is that why he’s never married? When
and how did his relationship with Emma shift from friendship to love? And what
can explain his incredible forbearance towards the eccentric Mr. Woodhouse? Now,
Mr. Knightley reveals these answers and more in His Own Words.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">This is not a variation from but a
supplement to the original story of Emma, chronicled in the hero’s point of
view. Two-thirds completely new material, it features key events in Mr.
Knightley’s past – events that still haunt him and yet have shaped who he’s
become, the superior man Emma can’t help falling in love with.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGPPHGPN?ref_=pe_3052080_276849420">GRAB YOUR COPY OF THE BOOK</a></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><b><a href="https://shannonwinslow.com/mr-knightley-in-his-own-words/">VISIT SHANNON WINSLOW'S WEBSITE</a></b></span></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-11951720708510390342023-09-30T11:00:00.003+02:002023-10-01T21:07:32.225+02:00HOW JANE AUSTEN PERSEVERED<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlTNDCHlBB2g6T6Hez7NqUTViWl3usrNjCMX-m5ycpVsLFnQqMpRbdLN5U802GeOKHs4RpXnEbh8NDBRM-rDrHOgbdnWc0NlNK6oQM_EASrx6XXVXs0PvcWj86fggWaASQVb3tPpEzinqq54IIAttwEhN3ecCjT24s4RqPkwa3ygq6pVSPRoYzl9_W6-M/s640/Jane%20Austen's%20House.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="640" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlTNDCHlBB2g6T6Hez7NqUTViWl3usrNjCMX-m5ycpVsLFnQqMpRbdLN5U802GeOKHs4RpXnEbh8NDBRM-rDrHOgbdnWc0NlNK6oQM_EASrx6XXVXs0PvcWj86fggWaASQVb3tPpEzinqq54IIAttwEhN3ecCjT24s4RqPkwa3ygq6pVSPRoYzl9_W6-M/w640-h456/Jane%20Austen's%20House.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Jane Austen's House - Chawton </span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB">Recently, I have faced some huge challenges
in my life and have had many obstacles to overcome. My experiences have made me
think of the challenges Jane Austen faced and how she overcame them. Jane did
not always have an easy life. An example of this is the decision by her parents
in 1801 for Jane’s father, a vicar, to retire from Steventon in Hampshire and, with
his wife and their two daughters, move to Bath. Neither Jane nor her elder sister
Cassandra were consulted.<span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB">This was very difficult for the sisters to
accept. They would be saying goodbye to the only home they had ever known, the
place where they had grown up and which they dearly loved. In fact, it is said that
on hearing the news Jane fainted. While this may not be true, she certainly
seems to have been deeply affected by the news.</span> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB">It is well known that Jane didn’t like
Bath. But she seems to have tried to make the best of it, although she didn’t
write much in Bath, or for some time after. However, while in Bath she did begin
a novel called <i>The Watsons</i>, but never finished it. It is thought that this was
because of the death of her beloved father the Reverend George Austen, who died
after a short illness in January 1805, while the family were living in Bath. One
of the characters in the unfinished novel, Mr Watson, is an ailing clergyman,
so perhaps the plot was too close to reality for Jane to finish writing it.</span> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB">Because of her father’s death and having to
leave her much loved home at Steventon, it is likely that Jane would afterwards
have associated Bath with negative feelings. After her father died, she and her
mother and Cassandra were left very badly off. They rented accommodation in the
city for a short while, before leaving later in 1805. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8FZ_XcQDFBDr0sEE3JPQGVdrjbxtlRem_HGV9HXSJH8iOnlse1yoX5tbcanVtfO_-aybI6CfTwJL8N7nMM9sHQSXKp6nukrkWrfytP3ROG3PAQjhuI7VxJtx93q1OHGeFMc7hcwiYHB1UxILz4E4HiKZLY09nX0sWwH-B7B0S8ahwf5ck8jL9RfRMccY/s1024/Steventon%20Hampshire.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8FZ_XcQDFBDr0sEE3JPQGVdrjbxtlRem_HGV9HXSJH8iOnlse1yoX5tbcanVtfO_-aybI6CfTwJL8N7nMM9sHQSXKp6nukrkWrfytP3ROG3PAQjhuI7VxJtx93q1OHGeFMc7hcwiYHB1UxILz4E4HiKZLY09nX0sWwH-B7B0S8ahwf5ck8jL9RfRMccY/w640-h426/Steventon%20Hampshire.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Steventon - Hampshire </b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">To begin with the three women moved around,
much of the time staying with Jane’s brothers. Between 1806 and 1809 they lived
in Southampton with Jane’s brother Frank and his wife Mary (although Frank was
often away at sea), along with the Austen ladies’ friend Martha Lloyd. It would
have been crowded and would have offered Jane very little space to write. It
wasn’t until 1809 that Jane, Cassandra, Mrs Austen and Martha, who they had decided
would live with them, were given a permanent home, Chawton Cottage by Jane’s wealthy
elder brother Edward Knight on his estate in Hampshire. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB">Once settled at Chawton, Jane began to busy
herself in writing. She revamped some of her old manuscripts, <i>Sense and
Sensibility </i>(previously a novel in letters called <i>Elinor and Marianne</i>)
and <i>Pride and Prejudice</i> (previously called <i>First Impression</i>). These
had been started some years earlier, before the move to Bath. Jane managed to publish
both books in 1811 and 1813 respectively, and later wrote two more that were
published in her lifetime, <i>Mansfield Park </i>(1814) and <i>Emma </i>(1815). <i>Persuasion</i>
and <i>Northanger Abbey</i> were published posthumously in 1817.</span> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB">I think what stands out to me from this
period in Jane’s life is how well she persevered and all that she achieved,
even in such difficult circumstances. In my opinion, she is an inspiration to
us all. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-GB"><i><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Elaine Jeremiah</span></b></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-GB"><i><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">***********************</span></i></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /><i>Elaine lives in Bristol, South West England
with her husband. But she was privileged enough to grow up in Jane Austen
country, in Hampshire. </i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span lang="EN-GB"> </span>She’s always loved writing, but it’s only
been in recent years that she’s been able to devote more time to it. She
decided to self-publish with the help of her wonderful husband who’s very
tech-savvy! In 2013 she self-published her first novel, but it was only with
her fourth, her novel ‘Love Without Time’, that she felt she finally found her
niche: Jane Austen Fan Fiction!</i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span lang="EN-GB"> </span>She’s always loved Jane Austen’s writing
and the Regency era, so this felt like a natural thing for her to do.
‘Elizabeth and Darcy: Beginning Again’ is the first ‘Pride and Prejudice’
variation she’s written.</i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0DfBPtrM5Ila4nm11dp85mRmggqQF6eKGA_5pgc0tIkB4IOhvLzv9KsAwwB8H0LIJ77JYFVuJ2LPeO3wO_NQBIH8s_uf3kRNL0Bn4x2OPWqQB50Ea7iYZ7jFYKmV7o5mFPuHtv3jYiV0FR4xorCFQOKYubNxHelxwuR6U1DVspkcx9dOcDuyE2y3pG8Y/s1350/Elaine%20Jeremiah.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1350" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0DfBPtrM5Ila4nm11dp85mRmggqQF6eKGA_5pgc0tIkB4IOhvLzv9KsAwwB8H0LIJ77JYFVuJ2LPeO3wO_NQBIH8s_uf3kRNL0Bn4x2OPWqQB50Ea7iYZ7jFYKmV7o5mFPuHtv3jYiV0FR4xorCFQOKYubNxHelxwuR6U1DVspkcx9dOcDuyE2y3pG8Y/w200-h200/Elaine%20Jeremiah.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: center;">You can connect with Elaine online on these
platforms</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span><span style="text-align: center;">On X </span><a href=" https://twitter.com/ElaineJeremiah" style="text-align: center;">@ElaineJeremiah</a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB">On Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/elainejeremiahauthor/">@elainejeremiahauthor</a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://elainejeremiah.co.uk/">Her website</a> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-GB"><i><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB"><i><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></i></span></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-20966555195328009032023-09-27T16:29:00.000+02:002023-09-27T16:29:14.173+02:00AUTUMNAL MELANCHOLY IN JANE AUSTEN'S PERSUASION<p> </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><em style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"></span></em></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABxqgLbnujAkgqqJyIVkLI19f6tj5ysXdGSmeM4wg3idGN3ypy2M0pQCDo9AUOfhUkm37o2-ukHw_ChMwe8kp2pz-U8QMAlSGdxiS7b0TrGz11L4vy2jv0Zr2qWJl9yZpJ8nsu5w0WuY-uYfXeUftEwtYjvFc6ExpuU7Fjj4xGuDE6rbKd2P_r6-eago/s640/persuasione-2007.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="640" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABxqgLbnujAkgqqJyIVkLI19f6tj5ysXdGSmeM4wg3idGN3ypy2M0pQCDo9AUOfhUkm37o2-ukHw_ChMwe8kp2pz-U8QMAlSGdxiS7b0TrGz11L4vy2jv0Zr2qWJl9yZpJ8nsu5w0WuY-uYfXeUftEwtYjvFc6ExpuU7Fjj4xGuDE6rbKd2P_r6-eago/w640-h334/persuasione-2007.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Sally Hawkins as Anne Elliott - Persuasion 2007</b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><em style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br />“Her pleasure in the walk arise from the exercise and the day, from the view of the last smiles of the year upon the tawny leaves and withered hedges, and from repeating to herself some few of the thousand poetical descriptions extant of autumn, that season of peculiar and inexhaustible influence on the mind of taste and tenderness, that season which has drawn from every poet worthy of being read some attempt at description, or some lines of feeling.” - Persuasion</span></em><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Fall is here again and it's definitely my favourite season. Autumn, with its wistful beauty and the melancholy it often carries, has long been a source of inspiration for poets, writers, and artists. It's a season that mirrors the bittersweet emotions of change, reflection, and the passing of time. Jane Austen, in her final completed novel Persuasion, masterfully weaves the melancholic essence of autumn into the narrative, a reflection of her own life circumstances as she penned the novel while seriously ill.<span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">In Persuasion Jane Austen tells us about Anne Elliott and how "<i>Her pleasure in the walk must arise from the exercise and the day."</i> Here, Austen introduces us to the protagonist, Anne Elliot, as she takes a solitary walk. The exercise and the day may bring Anne a measure of contentment, but it's the backdrop of autumn that infuses her walk with a unique melancholy. Austen's words paint a vivid picture of the <i>"tawny leaves and withered hedges,</i>" evoking the browning foliage and fading vibrancy that autumn is known for.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">As we delve deeper into the novel, we discover that Anne's melancholy is not solely tied to the changing season but also to her own personal history. Anne is a character who has experienced loss and regret. She once had a chance at love with Captain Frederick Wentworth but allowed herself to be persuaded to break off their engagement. The passing of time and her lingering feelings for Wentworth create a sense of melancholic nostalgia that permeates the narrative.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Austen herself was no stranger to life's uncertainties and regrets. She wrote Persuasion while in declining health, and the novel was published posthumously. Her own experience of facing mortality and her uncertain future undoubtedly influenced the tone of the novel. The sense of second chances and the regret of choices not taken are themes that resonate strongly in Persuasion, mirroring the author's own situation.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">In the world of literature, autumn is often seen as a metaphor for the later stages of life. It's a season of maturity and reflection, where the beauty of the past mingles with the inevitable approach of winter, symbolizing the end of life's journey. Austen's autumnal imagery in Persuasion reflects both the beauty and sadness of this stage of life, as Anne and Wentworth are given a second chance at love, but it comes after years of separation and personal growth.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Jane Austen's Persuasion beautifully captures the melancholy of autumn, a reflection of her own life's uncertainties and the passing of time. Through Anne Elliot's journey and the rekindling of her romance with Captain Wentworth, Austen explores the themes of second chances and the regret of choices unmade. As we read Austen's final completed novel, we are reminded that like autumn leaves, life's opportunities may wither and fall, but with patience and perseverance, love and happiness can still bloom in the autumn of our lives.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">So, as we savor the last smiles of the year upon the tawny leaves, let us also cherish the timeless melancholic beauty that Jane Austen has gifted us in Persuasion.</span></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-36269988487147252862023-09-25T09:00:00.002+02:002023-09-25T16:21:47.479+02:00BLOG TOUR - THE SCANDALOUS CONFESSIONS OF LYDIA BENNET, WITCH<p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2uvTKBWSOQkdvzZRh_xAK7zqBjgZrurTIklPUKUOBqmja2ivtcM03mhiUImuwHvMibaWp0zpjeNxlwIvKMBS7UEG7LnpYvAD2gusLmAfb3yoik0zErxPyZ1k6-tJaaFBvMBapHHR8JaV7DzrccNsbxivOInyPd4bBODF3Nnb0U9KnI95_Wz_NkBgpeo0/s1080/The%20Scandalous%20Confessions%20Book%20Tour%20graphic%20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2uvTKBWSOQkdvzZRh_xAK7zqBjgZrurTIklPUKUOBqmja2ivtcM03mhiUImuwHvMibaWp0zpjeNxlwIvKMBS7UEG7LnpYvAD2gusLmAfb3yoik0zErxPyZ1k6-tJaaFBvMBapHHR8JaV7DzrccNsbxivOInyPd4bBODF3Nnb0U9KnI95_Wz_NkBgpeo0/w640-h640/The%20Scandalous%20Confessions%20Book%20Tour%20graphic%20.png" width="640" /></a></i></span></div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><i><br />Welcome to My Jane Austen Book Club! </i></span><i style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Today, we embark on a bewitching literary journey that merges the timeless atmosphere of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice with the enchanting world of magic. Get ready to uncover the secrets and confessions of the Bennet family like you've never seen before as we dive into The Scandalous Confessions of Lydia Bennet, Witch. Join us as we explore this wildly inventive and utterly addictive reimagining, and don't miss our exclusive interview with author, Melinda Taub, where we delve into the magic behind the pages.<span><a name='more'></a></span></i><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><u>AUTHOR INTERVIEW</u></b></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b style="text-align: left;">What was your inspiration to write a Pride and Prejudice retelling from the perspective of one of its least popular characters, Lydia Bennet?</b></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Wow, I’ve spent so long with Lydia now that it’s crazy to hear her called one of the least popular characters! But I guess she’s got a lot of stiff competition. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">If I had to boil down what drew me to
Lydia, I’d refer you to a couple of her lines from Pride and Prejudice. This is
her very first line:</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;">“What an excellent father you have, girls!” said [Mrs. Bennet], when the door was shut. “I do not know how you will ever make him amends for his kindness; or me, either, for that matter. At our time of life it is not so pleasant, I can tell you, to be making new acquaintances every day; but for your sakes, we would do anything. Lydia, my love, though you are the youngest, I dare say Mr. Bingley will dance with you at the next ball.”</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;">“Oh!” said Lydia stoutly, “I am not afraid; for though I am the youngest, I’m the tallest.” </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">The tallest! Oh, sweetheart. Those are the
words of a child. Lydia is fifteen here, and not an old fifteen. And yet, in
less than a year, she’ll be married. I don’t think Jane Austen intended us to
think that was a great outcome.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;">And here’s another one:</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;">After welcoming their sisters, they triumphantly displayed a table set out with such cold meat as an inn larder usually affords, exclaiming, “Is not this nice? Is not this an agreeable surprise?”</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;">“And we mean to treat you all,” added Lydia, “but you must lend us the money, for we have just spent ours at the shop out there.” Then, showing her purchases—“Look here, I have bought this bonnet.
I do not think it is very pretty; but I thought I might as well buy it as not. I shall pull it to pieces as soon as I get home, and see if I can make it up any better.”</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;">Surprise! We’re taking you to lunch at a truck stop, because we missed you so much, and by the way can we borrow the money for lunch? We spent all ours on bad hats.” How anyone could fail to love
this chaos child is beyond me.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>The Scandalous Confessions is written in a journal format. Why did you decide to “break the fourth wall” and have Lydia address an unknown “you” in her entries, someone whose identity is hidden and later revealed?</b></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;">It barely felt like a decision. I started writing this book on a train from London to Rye, and Lydia’s voice just poured out of me. I wrote like a demon for the next few days and then paused to take stock. I decided that it made sense to have Lydia’s story be told in her own voice – it set it apart from Pride and Prejudice, and it made more sense for Lydia. Elizabeth Bennet is thoughtful and deliberate. She at least tries to take the perspective of other people around her. Lydia doesn’t bother.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">As for the mystery recipient – I wanted to
tie the timelines together, and to give the reader a sense that Lydia might not
be a completely reliable narrator. When you’re trying to convince someone of
something, you write differently than if you’re just setting down what
happened. My main reason for keeping it a secret was that I wanted to introduce
the reader to the mystery recipient gradually. This book is about how you never
really know anyone’s full story, so I wanted that loose thread early on to let
the reader know that there was this important figure in Lydia’s life whom we
couldn’t infer from reading Pride and Prejudice.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;"><b>Lydia is the evergreen drama queen in Jane Austen’s classic tale. Can you share your thoughts on her wild and impulsive behavior. Does it feed into the fact that she is a witch in your new story?</b></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;">It definitely feeds into that fact. The witches Lydia meets early on are pretty selfish, willful people. That shapes her view of where she stands and what she can get away with. However, their selfishness and greed ultimately just reflects the same things in non-witching society.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;">All Jane Austen books are about people in a tiny, privileged sliver of society, fighting with all their might not to fall out of that bubble. Well, Lydia does fall out, and her life is going to be much harder for it – but she’s also going to see sides of the world that her sisters never will. That made me think – what if she was already part of a strange, dangerous unseen world? What if she could see wonders her sisters never saw, but also had to face threats they didn’t have to worry about? Also, what if Kitty was a cat?</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b style="text-align: left;">What was the most challenging aspect of writing a retelling of a classic tale? Did you follow the plot religiously, or use artistic license?</b></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;">I followed it as religiously as I could. I have elaborate timelines and notes. If you find any mistakes, no you didn’t.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;">It’s a challenge and a benefit all at once. I find it useful sometimes to have a kind of scaffold to grow my writing over and around. It was also a relief, though, when I got Lydia to Brighton and could spread my wings a bit.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;"><b>Jane Austen is known for her biting wit and social reproof. Did Austen’s writing style affect your own when you wrote The Scandalous Confessions?</b></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;">Pretty sure Jane Austen’s writing style affects everything I write.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b style="text-align: left;">Did you conduct research on witchcraft to write your story? If so, did you discover any interesting facts about the occult that you used in the novel?</b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #374151; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I didn’t do systematic research on </span><span style="color: #374151; white-space-collapse: preserve;">witchcraft, but I tried to give it a flavor. I wanted Lydia’s magical world in </span><span style="color: #374151; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Meryton to feel extremely English, so, for example, she’s asked to sour a cup </span><span style="color: #374151; white-space-collapse: preserve;">of milk, because witches were sometimes accused of souring their neighbors’ </span><span style="color: #374151; white-space-collapse: preserve;">milk. Some of the herbs I have her use correspond to real folklore too, though honestly, </span><span style="color: #374151; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I don’t remember which ones are based in lore and which I just made up.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">Not the occult precisely, but an
interesting thing I found when researching Obeah (Miss Lambe’s flavor of
Caribbean magic) was that it’s still illegal in several countries! Not that
that stops people of course. This was another reason I made up a lot of the
magical practice in my book. I wanted it to feel grounded in the cultures and
history it came from, but I didn’t want it to be too close to the spiritual
practices of real, living people.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b style="text-align: left;">What is up next in your writing career?</b></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="text-align: left;">What do you think Mary Bennet is up to in that bedroom in the attic? She’s not a witch of course, so it’s probably fine. When has a smart, overlooked, frustrated girl ever gotten herself in trouble? Hey, is that a lightning rod?</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaoIXT38Bl8mULHtmalJwbNTGwEjq0Tvg2-itelfLfLXm6qWlT_A9OwOBMjxh01Ul_Ad_CyZk9-a1wqGZRU6ifWyhYD8Wt2TzF3rJAtC7T_-ybo6ExZDJjgCh0JW3VF2hflhcfMbknOayo7QLBP8BFmGnvnarYBnBBU0MPeYwDnav9DWAQHfHoyzlBqWI/s2560/The%20Scandalous%20Confessions%20of%20Lydia%20Bennet,%20WItch%20cover%202023.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1696" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaoIXT38Bl8mULHtmalJwbNTGwEjq0Tvg2-itelfLfLXm6qWlT_A9OwOBMjxh01Ul_Ad_CyZk9-a1wqGZRU6ifWyhYD8Wt2TzF3rJAtC7T_-ybo6ExZDJjgCh0JW3VF2hflhcfMbknOayo7QLBP8BFmGnvnarYBnBBU0MPeYwDnav9DWAQHfHoyzlBqWI/w424-h640/The%20Scandalous%20Confessions%20of%20Lydia%20Bennet,%20WItch%20cover%202023.jpg" width="424" /></a></div><br /><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 75.5pt center 234.0pt; text-align: justify;"></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>BOOK DESCRIPTION</u><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt;"></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US">A "wildly inventive and utterly addictive" (Julia
Quinn) witchy reimagining of <i>Pride and Prejudice</i>, told from the
perspective of the troublesome and—according to her—much-maligned youngest
Bennet sister, Lydia.</span></b></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US">
<br />
In this exuberant retelling of Jane Austen’s <i>Pride and Prejudice</i>,
Lydia Bennet puts pen to paper to relate the real events and aftermath of the
classic story. Some facts are well known: Mrs. Bennet suffers from her nerves,
Mr. Bennet suffers from Mrs. Bennet, and all five daughters suffer from an
estate that is entailed only to male heirs.<br />
<br />
But Lydia also suffers from entirely different concerns: her best-loved sister
Kitty is really a barn cat; Wickham is every bit as wicked as the world
believes him to be, but what else would one expect from a demon? And if Mr.
Darcy is uptight about etiquette, that’s nothing compared to his feelings about
magic. Most of all, Lydia has yet to learn that for a witch, promises have
power . . .<br />
<br />
Full of enchantment, intrigue, and boundless magic, <i>The Scandalous
Confessions of Lydia Bennet, Witch</i>, has all the irreverent wit, strength,
and romance of<i> Pride and Prejudice</i>—while offering a highly
unexpected redemption for the wildest Bennet sister.<o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">PRAISE FOR THE SCANDALOUS CONFESSIONS OF LYDIA
BENNET, WITCH</span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Funny and fierce as
Lydia Bennet herself, this book mixes witchcraft lore with Austen’s story
to make its own unique magic. I’ll never look at Kitty the same way
again…” ―<b>Claudia Gray, author of<i> The Murder of Mr. Wickham, a
Mr. Darcy and Miss Tilney Mystery</i></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Taub’s wit and
creativity shines through. . . A delight for both Austen lovers and fans
of magical adventure stories.”―<b><i>Kirkus Reviews</i></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US">·<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Wildly inventive and utterly addictive. I
never thought I'd say this, but I'm now 100% Team Lydia.” ―</span><b><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Julia Quinn</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><b><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-add-space: auto;"><span face=""Arial","sans-serif"" lang="EN-US" style="mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><u> <b>ABOUT THE AUTHOR</b></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Melinda Taub </span></span></b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">is an Emmy and Writers’ Guild Award-winning
writer. The former head writer and executive producer of <i>Full Frontal
with Samantha Bee</i>, she is also the author of <i>Still Star-Crossed</i>,
a young adult novel which was adapted for television by Shondaland. (She also
wrote that thing about the Baroness in <i>The Sound of Music</i> that
your aunt likes.) She lives in Brooklyn.</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; mso-add-space: auto;"><span face=""Arial","sans-serif"" lang="EN-US" style="mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">
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leading characters. Her novels are filled with a cast of strong and memorable
heroines, each with her unique set of virtues and flaws. From the witty
Elizabeth Bennet to the reserved Fanny Price, these female protagonists have
charmed readers for generations. In this article, I’d like to explore the world
of Austen's heroines, highlighting both their admirable qualities and their
human imperfections.<span></span><p></p><a name='more'></a><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Best Qualities:</b> Elizabeth is known for her intelligence,
wit, and strong moral compass. Her refusal to marry for convenience and her
unwavering commitment to love and respect make her a feminist icon of her time.
Her courage in confronting Mr. Darcy's pride and her willingness to admit her
own prejudices reveal her growth as a character.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws:</b> Elizabeth's sometimes hasty judgments and her
tendency to let her wit overshadow her kindness can lead to misunderstandings.
Her initial rejection of Mr. Darcy is a result of her own pride and prejudice.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Fanny Price from Mansfield Park</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmO43PcbRULLuu1LjRFpcAlbzTvY8Sdh4PTU5_dkqS-Eqvzw8ZfCIJcHIbyZbyo-dh_54JKDeXRxoYIeSnK0_58eKg4qjp2oiG6bf_4KLDyfoyw281dSo74voV021t33OJBIE9K41BbekhSnPqN5mkVPmjdCESarnzgzeeqZB6gu6XekjpSHZcgd8cKGc/s620/Fanny%20Price.webp" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="349" data-original-width="620" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmO43PcbRULLuu1LjRFpcAlbzTvY8Sdh4PTU5_dkqS-Eqvzw8ZfCIJcHIbyZbyo-dh_54JKDeXRxoYIeSnK0_58eKg4qjp2oiG6bf_4KLDyfoyw281dSo74voV021t33OJBIE9K41BbekhSnPqN5mkVPmjdCESarnzgzeeqZB6gu6XekjpSHZcgd8cKGc/w640-h360/Fanny%20Price.webp" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Frances O'Connor as Fanny Price (1999)</i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><br /></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Best Qualities:</b> Fanny is characterized by her unwavering
integrity and moral principles. Her strength lies in her quiet resilience,
kindness, and ability to remain true to herself in the face of adversity. Her
devotion to her cousin Edmund showcases her selflessness and deep emotional
capacity.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws:</b> Fanny's excessive shyness and hesitancy to assert
herself sometimes lead to misunderstandings and a sense of passivity. Her
inability to express her feelings initially results in personal suffering.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Elinor Dashwood from Sense and Sensibility</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Best Qualities:</b> Elinor embodies rationality, responsibility,
and selflessness. Her ability to maintain composure in challenging
circumstances and her concern for her family's welfare make her a pillar of
strength. Her loyalty to her sister Marianne is unwavering.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws:</b> Elinor's stoic nature and her reluctance to express
her emotions can be misinterpreted as coldness. Her inability to confide in
others, particularly regarding her feelings for Edward Ferrars, leads to
emotional turmoil.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QtqOwx99GU-W5ojpT43m1hK7EYJyjmfxur8OMCagysovto2xF4Ru4pZuN-nGrjaRvlLGRKOku30iKgEyLIkXO9v3HTPVJAMbTzGjRsHpnxnKVOGFf9wUyMDA5zBxLSn9O7-drDYdnm_RlUmHpveIYbSHmOrZu0NLIKIPROcPL_qysGiwkkQz5vDqUYA/s1832/Elinor%20and%20Marianne.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="994" data-original-width="1832" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QtqOwx99GU-W5ojpT43m1hK7EYJyjmfxur8OMCagysovto2xF4Ru4pZuN-nGrjaRvlLGRKOku30iKgEyLIkXO9v3HTPVJAMbTzGjRsHpnxnKVOGFf9wUyMDA5zBxLSn9O7-drDYdnm_RlUmHpveIYbSHmOrZu0NLIKIPROcPL_qysGiwkkQz5vDqUYA/w640-h348/Elinor%20and%20Marianne.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Kate Winslet and Emma Thomson as Elinor and Marianne Dashwood (1996)</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Marianne Dashwood from Sense and Sensibility</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Best Qualities:</b> Marianne is passionate, vibrant, and deeply
in touch with her emotions. Her love of art and music, as well as her disdain
for societal pretensions, make her an authentic and genuine character. Her
capacity to love with her whole heart is both her strength and her
vulnerability.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws:</b> Marianne's impulsive nature and emotional intensity
can lead to recklessness and heartbreak. Her disdain for practicality and her
obsession with romantic ideals initially cause her pain and disappointment.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Emma Woodhouse from Emma</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b></b></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw95__Ee2XDhwH6CET-bQvWCUtzUlHyLqF3FhyLkvxn4zh5ge1N10qXQkzQJoNW4MZAUepubXTC2-smYSvNu794xBJQtge_pKPYbGcytFRG2qWxIAvbK_8eDiRjyXFkL3qaSo6vhGfVOSnsPDAfSHnjti0taGz8uRXcst1BQxy_Uhr4v_HAT1AWWn2eFo/s1600/Emma.webp" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1044" data-original-width="1600" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw95__Ee2XDhwH6CET-bQvWCUtzUlHyLqF3FhyLkvxn4zh5ge1N10qXQkzQJoNW4MZAUepubXTC2-smYSvNu794xBJQtge_pKPYbGcytFRG2qWxIAvbK_8eDiRjyXFkL3qaSo6vhGfVOSnsPDAfSHnjti0taGz8uRXcst1BQxy_Uhr4v_HAT1AWWn2eFo/w640-h418/Emma.webp" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Gwyneth Paltrow as Emma Woodhouse (1996)</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><b><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Best Qualities:</b> Emma is intelligent, resourceful, and
well-intentioned. Her efforts to matchmake her friends reveal her caring nature
and her desire to see others happy. Her eventual self-awareness and humility
contribute to her growth as a character.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws:</b> Emma's overconfidence in her matchmaking abilities
and her occasional self-centeredness can lead to misunderstandings and hurt
feelings. Her blindness to her own faults creates personal challenges.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Catherine Morland from Northanger Abbey</span></b></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGeCL6ihN5d2EXYkeZ7Mw2qJcqFuhgqK6z7W-U4kDiDgxqxwlyWxK5NwxAMx_iz5X3seBpftUlY1GnnGABngImaFdO-Ahucg1JvvUjj8adsBb5N7TmMFWG-zuh4kVzQcIu_vMq5sv5YGPNJhjEm1n-jktO45g5mfz4IMvq7C84TRO2V-JL907JQX5tSVA/s1200/Catherine%20Morland.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGeCL6ihN5d2EXYkeZ7Mw2qJcqFuhgqK6z7W-U4kDiDgxqxwlyWxK5NwxAMx_iz5X3seBpftUlY1GnnGABngImaFdO-Ahucg1JvvUjj8adsBb5N7TmMFWG-zuh4kVzQcIu_vMq5sv5YGPNJhjEm1n-jktO45g5mfz4IMvq7C84TRO2V-JL907JQX5tSVA/w640-h360/Catherine%20Morland.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Felicity Jones as Catherine Morland (2007)</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Best Qualities:</b> Catherine's innocence, enthusiasm, and love
of Gothic novels make her a refreshing and relatable character. Her capacity
for growth and her ability to distinguish between fiction and reality
demonstrate her wisdom.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws:</b> Catherine's naivety and tendency to become overly
absorbed in her fantasies can lead to misunderstandings and embarrassment. Her
initial lack of social awareness causes her some discomfort.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Charlotte Heywood from Sanditon</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlVwGjI_XeVxWcNG7cJxkf77IUm2fJsHGT1Q5Nbc8Kj6E7TuRDpKGlqKG6FIM2uiL6_IWin7eIJzwj0kPA_RQrpXxRfMyrTLYVlsIgLjElNoROEw1pgyYOGPErNoJ73NUepoFH6WGTrKbeESzBN5tRr9AX3CNA1q67CQO_8g3VAANI2pixcHU2bbLh45Y/s2500/Charlotte.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1667" data-original-width="2500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlVwGjI_XeVxWcNG7cJxkf77IUm2fJsHGT1Q5Nbc8Kj6E7TuRDpKGlqKG6FIM2uiL6_IWin7eIJzwj0kPA_RQrpXxRfMyrTLYVlsIgLjElNoROEw1pgyYOGPErNoJ73NUepoFH6WGTrKbeESzBN5tRr9AX3CNA1q67CQO_8g3VAANI2pixcHU2bbLh45Y/w640-h426/Charlotte.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Rose Williams as Charlotte Heywood (2022)</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Best Qualities: </b>Charlotte is portrayed as practical,
sensible, and adaptable. Her open-mindedness and ability to navigate the
complex world of Sanditon society showcase her resilience. Her determination to
remain true to herself while facing societal pressures is commendable.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws:</b> Charlotte's initial inexperience and her willingness
to trust others without question can lead to naivety and vulnerability. Her
reluctance to challenge societal norms at times hinders her personal growth.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"> <b><span style="font-size: medium;">Anne Elliot from Persuasion</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHpBjY_sVfechYXJXbza31wkl2P7V5FRNj_BUvn_TylND1euWCA9pM6mUbhbEeLuzoOWFiz--A3hIKWRDmA_SBUlBDpRmRhRPbq-gAzVleXpr8QGyRSM_ky8dQAcZoYguVBTBO57H5gwOJfxuyWQgqKAv8o2iqhIgVkeyhn2nLihxKP1mzDzblVwK_w_Y/s750/Anne%20Elliot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="473" data-original-width="750" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHpBjY_sVfechYXJXbza31wkl2P7V5FRNj_BUvn_TylND1euWCA9pM6mUbhbEeLuzoOWFiz--A3hIKWRDmA_SBUlBDpRmRhRPbq-gAzVleXpr8QGyRSM_ky8dQAcZoYguVBTBO57H5gwOJfxuyWQgqKAv8o2iqhIgVkeyhn2nLihxKP1mzDzblVwK_w_Y/w640-h404/Anne%20Elliot.jpg" width="640" /></a></b></div><b><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Best Qualities:</span></span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-family: inherit; font-weight: 600;">Maturity and Sensibility:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> Anne is remarkably mature and sensible, making sound judgments.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-family: inherit; font-weight: 600;">Loyalty and Patience:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> She is unwaveringly loyal and patient, especially with her family.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-family: inherit; font-weight: 600;">Compassion and Empathy:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> Anne possesses a kind and compassionate nature, showing genuine concern for others.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-family: inherit; font-weight: 600;">Introspection and Self-Reflection:</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> She has a capacity for introspection and self-awareness, which drives her character development.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Flaws:</span></span></p><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: none; margin: 1.25em 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Passivity:</span> Anne's passivity regarding her own happiness leads to a prolonged separation from Captain Wentworth.</span></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Self-Sacrifice:</span> She often prioritizes others' needs over her own, at times neglecting her own well-being.</span></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Shyness and Reserved Nature:</span> Anne's reserved and shy disposition can hinder effective communication, leading to misunderstandings.</span></p></li></ol>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Jane Austen's heroines, with their strengths and weaknesses,
continue to resonate with readers today. Their complexities and personal
journeys serve as a mirror reflecting the diverse aspects of the human
condition. As we explore their virtues and imperfections, we gain a deeper
appreciation for Austen's ability to craft multifaceted, relatable female
characters who continue to inspire and captivate audiences.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p> </o:p></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-51282929373381426592023-09-16T21:41:00.000+02:002023-09-16T21:41:00.867+02:00JANE AUSTEN'S LEADING MEN: BEST QUALITIES AND FLAWS<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZbAiNk0vOn-Mv0bJf7vSdGkidjP5cV_9qS5HtGfXUw3OMZoZiwmnRzWpv--zETfKjS58aRPAUIc5BngiCECbDjjl8Ojw6T6REktneKoWD3pPlLbqc7T4LQz1mub_Jvwfxo8fmqTMG8CA8RyBObUZz0u5nliXZ416OL91fbv8N6YlQCM3DTvZg5YW73ow/s630/Austen2FLAT_100pc.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="630" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZbAiNk0vOn-Mv0bJf7vSdGkidjP5cV_9qS5HtGfXUw3OMZoZiwmnRzWpv--zETfKjS58aRPAUIc5BngiCECbDjjl8Ojw6T6REktneKoWD3pPlLbqc7T4LQz1mub_Jvwfxo8fmqTMG8CA8RyBObUZz0u5nliXZ416OL91fbv8N6YlQCM3DTvZg5YW73ow/w640-h432/Austen2FLAT_100pc.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Jane Austen, often celebrated for her sharp wit and keen
observations of human nature, was a master of creating compelling male
characters who have left an indelible mark on literature and raised our
expectations so dangerously high! In this post, I will delve into the world of
Austen's male heroes from her various novels, highlighting their best qualities
and, just as importantly, their flaws. These characters, including Mr. Darcy,
Captain Wentworth, Colonel Brandon, Edward Ferrars, Mr. Knightley, Henry
Tilney, and Edmund Bertram, continue to captivate readers with their complexity
and enduring charm. Scroll down, enjoy reading and let me know if you agree
with or not in the comment section below if you wish. <span></span></p><a name='more'></a> <p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy - Pride and Prejudice</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4eTsRamBge__ydVSjlSDCQpQbD0S-nfGM-zVTFjxZ6j_R23mSXX6-i7lKZfez7ePQGOK37HpWbj7NiAb9MNqutNR7R6rhJZLYvwqLofzrAlkl32mqWxXKMTmvzfDkhmYSZQ1IDzZK4d6mGLFctgDnnUaHO3MoPZP-fDqHpY2dBDKWBhKrYJCAxQWcbeA/s1920/MR%20DARCY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4eTsRamBge__ydVSjlSDCQpQbD0S-nfGM-zVTFjxZ6j_R23mSXX6-i7lKZfez7ePQGOK37HpWbj7NiAb9MNqutNR7R6rhJZLYvwqLofzrAlkl32mqWxXKMTmvzfDkhmYSZQ1IDzZK4d6mGLFctgDnnUaHO3MoPZP-fDqHpY2dBDKWBhKrYJCAxQWcbeA/w640-h360/MR%20DARCY.jpg" width="640" /></a></u></b></div><b><u><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></u></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Best Qualities</b>: Mr. Darcy's intelligence, loyalty, and sense
of responsibility are admirable. His eventual transformation from aloofness to
genuine love for Elizabeth Bennet demonstrates his capacity for growth.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws</b>: Initially, Darcy's pride and prejudice cloud his
judgment and lead him to make hasty decisions. His reluctance to communicate
openly also causes misunderstandings.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Captain Frederick Wentworth - Persuasion</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5l4VZsvTKJjuVEw5TG51DnSSSqEZ5ils6WXj89Fbxa7b0_knOxM125EdSxkpCqAoydjgHEMazXqwGTkLrHhwV0GjhWOuWTpX5-XaMCndavkKPUIc4UugnWgCWOU4JbMRh-M3lOkIWiuMqQgJA3HgeZI5tZhgfuRZM10zPetRSgQ3mY-g8cSu6MSwZEQc/s1246/Wentworth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="1246" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5l4VZsvTKJjuVEw5TG51DnSSSqEZ5ils6WXj89Fbxa7b0_knOxM125EdSxkpCqAoydjgHEMazXqwGTkLrHhwV0GjhWOuWTpX5-XaMCndavkKPUIc4UugnWgCWOU4JbMRh-M3lOkIWiuMqQgJA3HgeZI5tZhgfuRZM10zPetRSgQ3mY-g8cSu6MSwZEQc/w640-h360/Wentworth.jpg" width="640" /></a></u></b></div><b><u><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></u></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Best Qualities</b>: Captain Wentworth embodies determination,
resilience, and honor. His love for Anne Elliot endures despite the passage of
time and life's hardships.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws</b>: Wentworth's initial resentment towards Anne, fuelled
by wounded pride, reveals a tendency to hold grudges. He also struggles with
jealousy and impatience.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Colonel Brandon - Sense and Sensibility</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiLAWzEppmJlVvfj_1Iv_Zy7XeQfS7ikdecPWjwrgK6cSTKgQqFu9qkaezvlkwi-p7IwHon96PUoIQkX-H_9Y6-yoJohTFQRQZIQWNZ7AlLk_15O-CjFxio-B3x8GrxFLJTziOG_XdcPsdtUCaMFzSdxc9d5Xm6N-1cq9Kx4OD03dhQv2HvH3owgmACo/s1200/Colonel%20Brandon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="804" data-original-width="1200" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiLAWzEppmJlVvfj_1Iv_Zy7XeQfS7ikdecPWjwrgK6cSTKgQqFu9qkaezvlkwi-p7IwHon96PUoIQkX-H_9Y6-yoJohTFQRQZIQWNZ7AlLk_15O-CjFxio-B3x8GrxFLJTziOG_XdcPsdtUCaMFzSdxc9d5Xm6N-1cq9Kx4OD03dhQv2HvH3owgmACo/w640-h428/Colonel%20Brandon.jpg" width="640" /></a></u></b></div><b><u><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></u></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Best Qualities</b>: Colonel Brandon is a paragon of honour,
kindness, and selflessness. His unwavering support for Marianne Dashwood in
times of trouble is truly heartwarming.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws</b>: Brandon's reticence and melancholy hide a painful
past, making him seem reserved and distant. His inability to express his
feelings exacerbates misunderstandings.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Edward Ferrars - Sense and Sensibility</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVixRYkqv6M5rt1j2ESv2AZgPcgvlqZKK0kRY4iw4TOTYHllZb4-lTF2tyKHrIyALj03n_KjCanbJJm_P69rDgo_wiIqFZc7W2aUxnFQ-CkSjeEGWvKRy6rxq5qH28U92-06smdDw54obUVdMSAhkauCocu5505lzL7AVFSYrSEiUNpj20eae4CgLAEY/s2000/Edward%20Ferrars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1333" data-original-width="2000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVixRYkqv6M5rt1j2ESv2AZgPcgvlqZKK0kRY4iw4TOTYHllZb4-lTF2tyKHrIyALj03n_KjCanbJJm_P69rDgo_wiIqFZc7W2aUxnFQ-CkSjeEGWvKRy6rxq5qH28U92-06smdDw54obUVdMSAhkauCocu5505lzL7AVFSYrSEiUNpj20eae4CgLAEY/w640-h426/Edward%20Ferrars.jpg" width="640" /></a></u></b></div><b><u><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></u></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Best Qualities</b>: Edward's gentle and sincere nature endear
him to readers. His loyalty to Elinor Dashwood and moral integrity are
commendable.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws</b>: Edward's inability to stand up to his domineering
family and commitment to an ill-fated engagement demonstrate his indecisiveness
and weakness in the face of societal expectations.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Mr. George Knightley - Emma</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgwNdqiLWNz1XsYlT9pw3w2DjB4zyThy40NVS-stKltMNJSpPJ0qZkMhKQZXPM7ajseyyY-9WxhZkIIFO2nEAKIik6DJGlQ1fxpYD0ojALvoM3x-lRh7LHA7n4yLDwsjP_7FVg_0y9qCPH2VbHtHMidPDgNi4B_yTPizETyh6-jntxFAxn9TUZrQ88toY/s2247/MR%20KNIGHTLEY%20B.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1406" data-original-width="2247" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgwNdqiLWNz1XsYlT9pw3w2DjB4zyThy40NVS-stKltMNJSpPJ0qZkMhKQZXPM7ajseyyY-9WxhZkIIFO2nEAKIik6DJGlQ1fxpYD0ojALvoM3x-lRh7LHA7n4yLDwsjP_7FVg_0y9qCPH2VbHtHMidPDgNi4B_yTPizETyh6-jntxFAxn9TUZrQ88toY/w640-h400/MR%20KNIGHTLEY%20B.jpeg" width="640" /></a></u></b></div><b><u><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></u></b><b>Best Qualities</b>: Mr. Knightley is a voice of reason, wisdom,
and integrity in the chaotic world of Emma Woodhouse. His genuine concern for
Emma's well-being and his devotion to her over the years highlight his noble
character.<p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws</b>: Knightley's sternness and occasional criticism, while
well-intentioned, can come across as condescending. His reluctance to express
his feelings creates tension in his relationship with Emma.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Henry Tilney - Northanger Abbey</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxm6BfHQGQufG3D4IyQXl4Ei27era4twB9gd5P2iGr4YXi5yP-3VzfYDCBPYwwD6ltfoe7ObW59JfB-MWqWtmJKRublCDeicnHcBtpFOwrpTWCm7q2fRhIkVX4hgk24ztNGSqFeIS4_fN1a65f5WVQuCMwNs3pe0V5Hgl5nC4OcDEKc7q8kqiOvctFT6w/s1280/HENRY%20TILNEY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxm6BfHQGQufG3D4IyQXl4Ei27era4twB9gd5P2iGr4YXi5yP-3VzfYDCBPYwwD6ltfoe7ObW59JfB-MWqWtmJKRublCDeicnHcBtpFOwrpTWCm7q2fRhIkVX4hgk24ztNGSqFeIS4_fN1a65f5WVQuCMwNs3pe0V5Hgl5nC4OcDEKc7q8kqiOvctFT6w/w640-h360/HENRY%20TILNEY.jpg" width="640" /></a></u></b></div><b><u><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></u></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Best Qualities</b>: Henry Tilney's wit, humor, and affability
make him instantly likable. His open-mindedness and willingness to indulge
Catherine Morland's youthful imagination are endearing.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws</b>: Tilney's initial secrecy about Northanger Abbey's
family secrets shows a lack of transparency, and his apparent indifference to
Catherine's feelings causes her distress.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><u>Edmund Bertram - Mansfield Park</u></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVRYw8vAZolGoMs9c1o-LzZWuLYrHsHsRryPLlalnBwH-tUI7HdRjUKyOtO-ibi1FikpIHXnmjg_Kk8E43YPZCUAwcnSlJYFbaSRhBzphi3vKa5F6rB0616ldHrF_gPe0yIfWpiyOHLt3Mfn5Ba8nro-bLSADyI-ouCay2zz1P3Gz6T6WnG78Mn3leQzA/s1600/EDMUND%20BERTRAM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1600" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVRYw8vAZolGoMs9c1o-LzZWuLYrHsHsRryPLlalnBwH-tUI7HdRjUKyOtO-ibi1FikpIHXnmjg_Kk8E43YPZCUAwcnSlJYFbaSRhBzphi3vKa5F6rB0616ldHrF_gPe0yIfWpiyOHLt3Mfn5Ba8nro-bLSADyI-ouCay2zz1P3Gz6T6WnG78Mn3leQzA/w640-h384/EDMUND%20BERTRAM.jpg" width="640" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><br /><u><br /></u></b></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Best Qualities</b>: Edmund Bertram's moral principles and
devotion to Fanny Price showcase his integrity. His kindness and steadfastness
stand out in a household often marked by selfishness.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>Flaws</b>: Edmund's blindness to Mary Crawford's true character
and his temporary infatuation with her reveal his naivety and susceptibility to
flattery.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNkShvbYEKbN49NQE7B1x3d6SI4V4T2L2CWU7em8kZG0qLT-FWry1Bhz3UvEC_qXOTG6nSEamA7y9cTAcj1p3VhTaAWaHeN8fAB1dWi1z3J4kmOIxVtnenwOOJZAJlSditPNlep6jGit8SsOOHsEpcdYgwTpn-_v3HfOkPlwcMtXybR_xBRjMErcl3Fo/s1200/match-making-quiz.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNkShvbYEKbN49NQE7B1x3d6SI4V4T2L2CWU7em8kZG0qLT-FWry1Bhz3UvEC_qXOTG6nSEamA7y9cTAcj1p3VhTaAWaHeN8fAB1dWi1z3J4kmOIxVtnenwOOJZAJlSditPNlep6jGit8SsOOHsEpcdYgwTpn-_v3HfOkPlwcMtXybR_xBRjMErcl3Fo/w640-h480/match-making-quiz.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Try the <a href="https://psistillreadyou.wordpress.com/2018/08/22/jane-austen-match-making-quiz/">Jane Austen Match Making Quiz</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Jane Austen's male heroes, from the proud and enigmatic Mr.
Darcy to the kind and steadfast Edmund Bertram, are richly drawn characters who
reflect both the virtues and vices of their time. Through their complexities,
Austen masterfully explores themes of love, society, and personal growth. While
each hero has his flaws, it is their capacity for change, their moral compasses,
and their genuine love for the heroines that make them timeless and beloved
figures in the world of literature.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-39769758356363244052023-09-04T09:00:00.001+02:002023-09-04T09:00:00.141+02:00BOOK REVIEW: WHAT WOULD JANE AUSTEN DO? A CHARMING ROM-COM WITH AUSTENIAN SPARKS <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNrFNxYZI6TuyyCJ0keMLooN0gKEt3WeHgn7KmAzWOStpKFuxwlThqhniJq3QZ7r7PfizJFcwpH36d2GnikGwWqny4hmeXF2ULgpS3C_72RDHRCqN_JKbBfKEu9pUpdt0fY5uopXn_PtqL7Z-M7XJrWnbWB_zNjqG6EryLL1Q9dRBdlPEnc-fLAV_iEu8/s1080/What%20Would%20Jane%20Austen%20Do%20Book%20Tour%20Graphic%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNrFNxYZI6TuyyCJ0keMLooN0gKEt3WeHgn7KmAzWOStpKFuxwlThqhniJq3QZ7r7PfizJFcwpH36d2GnikGwWqny4hmeXF2ULgpS3C_72RDHRCqN_JKbBfKEu9pUpdt0fY5uopXn_PtqL7Z-M7XJrWnbWB_zNjqG6EryLL1Q9dRBdlPEnc-fLAV_iEu8/w640-h640/What%20Would%20Jane%20Austen%20Do%20Book%20Tour%20Graphic%20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Step into the enchanting world of "What Would Jane
Austen Do?" by Linda Corbett, where romance, wit, and modern-day love
stories intertwine with the timeless allure of Jane Austen's novels. This
delightful rom-com is a must-read for Austen fans and lovers of sparkling
contemporary fiction.<span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Corbett's skillful storytelling brings to life a captivating
tale that combines the vivacity of Austen's works with a contemporary setting.
From the very first page, readers are immersed in the witty and sharp
observations that make this novel a true gem. Julie Caplin aptly praises the
book, noting that it is "witty, sharp, and beautifully observed – I feel
sure Jane would approve."</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The story follows Maddy Shaw, a journalist and devoted Jane
Austen fan, who finds herself uprooted from her beloved Dear Jane column and
thrust into the idyllic countryside after inheriting a home from her estranged
cousin, Nigel. However, there's a catch: Maddy must also take on the role of
chair for the village's annual literary festival and contend with her new
neighbor, Cameron Massey, a bestselling crime author and self-professed romance
skeptic.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The dynamic between Maddy and Cameron is electric, with
their contrasting beliefs about love and storytelling sparking both on and off
the page. As Maddy challenges Cameron to write romantic fiction, readers are
treated to a delightful battle of wits and hearts that keeps the pages turning.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Corbett's writing skillfully navigates the complexities of
modern romance while paying homage to Austen's enduring influence. The novel
captures the essence of Austen's beloved themes—wit, societal observations, and
the power of love—and infuses them with a contemporary flair. The result is a
story that will charm both Jane Austen purists and those seeking a fresh,
romantic escape.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">"What Would Jane Austen Do?" is a captivating
journey filled with endearing characters, witty banter, and unexpected twists.
As Maddy embraces her new role in the village literary festival, readers are
treated to a delightful exploration of love, friendship, and the enduring power
of Austen's legacy.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">With its clever blend of romance, humor, and literary
allusions, this novel will leave you with a renewed appreciation for Jane
Austen's timeless tales. Linda Corbett's masterful storytelling whisks
readers away to a world where modern-day love stories and Austenian sparks
intertwine in the most enchanting way.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Rating: <span lang="EN-US">★★★★☆</span> (4 out of 5 stars)</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium; text-align: left;">So grab a cup of tea, cozy up in your favorite reading nook,
and let Linda Corbett transport you to a world where love, laughter, and Jane
Austen reign supreme.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;"><i><b>Maria Grazia</b></i>💕</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK2rZ0D0J9zKSjSaQfZQXEzy6Zn-Zs9Sb83zL5aNiXkDli8NJ9PnMLOCGqoJqYV1DK1ZUJ5HNvYH2tHXbHMuRYhF7vmnDgx_I5BLJr0AMgZj1tXt2T0C7jJmyQWMdzLnW-_yEU_ue1ly2ziBsyyfKd0Gfza7x7AXl03COonzXq50bPVKTvAh6EKEURAlc/s750/Linda%20Corbett%20author%20headshor%202023%20x%20750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK2rZ0D0J9zKSjSaQfZQXEzy6Zn-Zs9Sb83zL5aNiXkDli8NJ9PnMLOCGqoJqYV1DK1ZUJ5HNvYH2tHXbHMuRYhF7vmnDgx_I5BLJr0AMgZj1tXt2T0C7jJmyQWMdzLnW-_yEU_ue1ly2ziBsyyfKd0Gfza7x7AXl03COonzXq50bPVKTvAh6EKEURAlc/s320/Linda%20Corbett%20author%20headshor%202023%20x%20750.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><b style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://thesecretunderstandingofthehearts.blogspot.com/2023/07/what-would-jane-austen-do-interview.html">Read my interview with author Linda Corbett</a></b></div></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;"><b><u>BOOK BLURB</u></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></p><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><span style="text-align: left;"><b><u><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBMYgPUfiQtpLnO89WF4Rwks3uJ0ZzfWyui2X2a9Kl0Qokc0RlzEz_hUUN0c3t8rNGinUg4csu1yE5C9zrfb2lYck9EmppOxnNdzcjphdeddMWNVtYVoa7ZlvpQeyQBnjJZ37zILe6E-cMCeBkW6sfWN7aRN52EnYzSvz-kvVsaLz5LqgCCbXGY3ULYz0/s1500/What%20Would%20Jane%20Austen%20Do%20cover%202023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="983" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBMYgPUfiQtpLnO89WF4Rwks3uJ0ZzfWyui2X2a9Kl0Qokc0RlzEz_hUUN0c3t8rNGinUg4csu1yE5C9zrfb2lYck9EmppOxnNdzcjphdeddMWNVtYVoa7ZlvpQeyQBnjJZ37zILe6E-cMCeBkW6sfWN7aRN52EnYzSvz-kvVsaLz5LqgCCbXGY3ULYz0/w420-h640/What%20Would%20Jane%20Austen%20Do%20cover%202023.jpg" width="420" /></a></div><br /></u></b></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">It's a truth often acknowledged that when a
journalist and Jane Austen fan girl ends up living next door to a cynical but
handsome crime writer, romantic sparks will fly!<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></span></p><span style="text-align: left;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When Maddy Shaw is told her </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">Dear Jane</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> column has been
cancelled she has no choice but to look outside of London’s rental market. That
is until she’s left an idyllic country home by the black sheep of the family,
long-not-so-lost Cousin Nigel.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">But of course, there’s a stipulation… and not only is Maddy made chair
of the committee for the annual village literary festival, she also has to put
up with bestselling crime author –and romance sceptic – Cameron Massey as her
new neighbor.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">When Maddy challenges Cameron to write romantic fiction, which he
claims is so easy to do, sparks fly both on and off the page…</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><div style="text-align: center;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, "sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">PURCHASE LINKS<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://amzn.to/3OJwD4t"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">AMAZON</span></b><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk93660399;"></span></a><!--[if !supportNestedAnchors]--><a name="_Hlk93660399"></a><!--[endif]--></span><a name="_Hlk142140462"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk93660399;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">|</span></b></span></a><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/what-would-jane-austen-do-linda-corbett/1141898159?ean=9780008554576">BARNES
& NOBLE</a><a name="_Hlk142139914">|</a><a href="https://www.harpercollins.com/products/what-would-jane-austen-do-linda-corbett?variant=40900845043746">HARPERCOLLINS</a>| </span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62346321-what-would-jane-austen-do"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">GOODREADS</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"> | </span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.bookbub.com/books/what-would-jane-austen-do-by-linda-corbett"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">BOOKBUB</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, "sans-serif"; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">PRAISE FOR WHAT WOULD JANE AUSTEN DO?</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p></div></span><p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">“Witty, sharp and
beautifully observed – I feel sure Jane would approve.”— <b>Julie Caplin,
author of <i>The French Chateau</i><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><span lang="EN-US">·<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">“Sparkling romance, secrets
from the past…Witty and romantic, I couldn’t stop myself from turning the
pages.”— <b>Alison Sherlock, bestselling author of <i>The Village of Lost
and Found</i><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"> </span></span></b></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;">·<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">“…sheer
fun from beginning to end, beautifully written, and with a real touch of
originality.”— <b>Anne Williams,<i>Being Anne</i></b></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"> </span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: center;">
</p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><span lang="EN-US">·<span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">“What
a lovely book! It also fills my need to see British colloquialisms on occasion.
Yes! I highly recommend this book!”— <b>Michelle, <i>Tales Untangled</i></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium; text-align: left;"></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-87852239626563684612023-08-11T09:00:00.001+02:002023-08-11T12:22:49.997+02:00BOOK COVER REVEAL! CYANIDE AND SENSIBILITY: A JANE AUSTEN TEA SOCIETY MYSTERY - A DELICIOUS WHODUNIT BY KATIE OLIVER<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4L2sLuiGBqRr4AAp8wKj44lfXpTZTn5PGa-lY_7hkYRAQ-JNkE9GvFlDu0kvLZ_Ktwt6XnFJWkSexMroo2k6JWLHkaY4RiWwmT1vsfOpklmte6tEDISRL5SJfKwCjjwz72DsuubR30fWnWETK2IQjAAc_I4hrD8dWiPjqe52SVIk0401fXflcz4iPbak/s3264/BeFunky-collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1745" data-original-width="3264" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4L2sLuiGBqRr4AAp8wKj44lfXpTZTn5PGa-lY_7hkYRAQ-JNkE9GvFlDu0kvLZ_Ktwt6XnFJWkSexMroo2k6JWLHkaY4RiWwmT1vsfOpklmte6tEDISRL5SJfKwCjjwz72DsuubR30fWnWETK2IQjAAc_I4hrD8dWiPjqe52SVIk0401fXflcz4iPbak/w640-h342/BeFunky-collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dear fellow Jane
Austen enthusiasts and cozy mystery lovers, the time has come for a truly
delectable revelation! Get ready to put on your detective caps and join us as
we dive into the enchanting world of "<i><b>Cyanide and Sensibility: A Jane
Austen Tea Society Mystery</b></i>." In this upcoming masterpiece by the talented
Katie Oliver, prepare to indulge in a delightful blend of cozy culinary
mystery, amateur sleuthing, and Austenesque fiction. With the cover reveal today, let's start embarking on a new tantalizing journey into the realm of
confections, clues, and cunning in Laurel Springs. Scroll down to have a look at the lovely book cover! <span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>On
December 12, 2023</b>, Berkley Publishing is set to release Katie Oliver's new captivating
320-page tale that promises to be a feast for all of us loving good Austen-inspired
tales. <b>"Cyanide and Sensibility" is the third installment in the Jane
Austen Tea Society Mystery series</b>, a collection that has garnered praise for
its witty narratives, clever character references, and modern-day mysteries
with a dash of Regency charm.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Book Description</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Step into the
shoes of Phaedra Brighton, a protagonist who might not have her own Mr. Darcy
but is content with her loving family and a loyal feline companion. Phaedra's
world is turned upside down when her sister, Hannah, opens a patisserie named
Tout de Sweet. Amid the excitement of the grand unveiling, a dark cloud looms
as a sinister incident involving one of Hannah's decadent dark chocolate
cupcakes unfolds. With Rachel Brandon's assistant falling ill from poisoning,
Phaedra finds herself caught in a web of mystery and intrigue. As the culinary
secrets intertwine with dangerous designs, Phaedra is determined to serve up
justice, one clue at a time. Join us on this delectable journey, where danger
mingles with delectation, and secrets are as carefully crafted as confections.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Praise for The Jane Austen Tea Society Mysteries</span></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Praise for the Jane Austen Tea
Society Mysteries: The Jane Austen Tea Society Mysteries have been hailed as
modern gems that seamlessly blend the charm of Jane Austen's era with the
excitement of a gripping mystery. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Laura Childs, bestselling author of the Tea
Shop Mystery series, applauds Katie Oliver's work for its captivating blend of
classic mystery and Austen-esque allure. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Marilyn Brant, author of "Pride,
Prejudice, and the Perfect Match," lauds the series for its clever
character references that will delight Austen aficionados. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Christina Boyd,
editor of "Elizabeth, Obstinate Headstrong Girl," assures readers
that Oliver's writing strikes the perfect balance between humor, charm, and
intrigue.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">About the Author</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Katie Oliver,
an internationally acclaimed author, is renowned for her Jane Austen rom-coms
infused with an enigmatic touch of mystery. With a dedicated following in both
the US and the UK, she has captured the hearts of readers with her "Dating
Mr. Darcy" and "Marrying Mr. Darcy" series. Her skillful
storytelling and ability to transport readers across time and genre make her an
exceptional voice in the realm of Austen-inspired fiction.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Get Ready for the Unveiling: the book cover it's jus a few lines away! </b>As the curtain rises on the graphic work that encapsulates the essence of
"Cyanide and Sensibility," let the countdown begin. Will you be able
to decipher the clues hidden within the cover? Join us in celebrating the melding
of culinary prowess, Austen allure, and amateur sleuthing in this upcoming cozy
mystery. The blog tour is coming in December and we will have a new celebration with a review of the book and an author interview. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">PURCHASE LINKS<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://amzn.to/3rZEylB"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">AMAZON</span></b></a><!--[if !supportNestedAnchors]--><a name="_Hlk93660399"></a><!--[endif]--></span><a name="_Hlk142140462"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">|</span></b></a><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cyanide-and-sensibility-katie-oliver/1143202190?ean=9780593337653">BARNES
& NOBLE</a><a name="_Hlk142139914">|</a><a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/676028/cyanide-and-sensibility-by-katie-oliver/">BERKLEY</a>|
</span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123257837-cyanide-and-sensibility"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">GOODREADS</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"> | </span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.bookbub.com/books/cyanide-and-sensibility-by-katie-oliver"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">BOOKBUB</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; text-align: center;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Connect with Katie Oliver</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggqJaEowuD2Tk82oQOlEsyU6DFcj3pQPpKqV9A0uWK6R27YLv9-HGZKgPL4j1aLbW2d6qir2EmvbPqP6JLGEcONUQSKmp_Q8loofwKP5Qzc6Mfr7Hca1seGXgr0PBc_80O9tZ50smIj5epXUS4O9uRgFiUH5N65kOVjwJoGkTgloV2B0Qy5ohSk8M4Sk/s1080/Katie%20Oliver%20headshot%202023%20x%201080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggqJaEowuD2Tk82oQOlEsyU6DFcj3pQPpKqV9A0uWK6R27YLv9-HGZKgPL4j1aLbW2d6qir2EmvbPqP6JLGEcONUQSKmp_Q8loofwKP5Qzc6Mfr7Hca1seGXgr0PBc_80O9tZ50smIj5epXUS4O9uRgFiUH5N65kOVjwJoGkTgloV2B0Qy5ohSk8M4Sk/s320/Katie%20Oliver%20headshot%202023%20x%201080.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://katieoliver.com/ko/"><b><span style="background: white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">WEBSITE</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #212529; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">|</span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://twitter.com/katieoliver01"><b><span style="background: white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">TWITTER</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #212529; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">|</span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/katiewriter/"><b><span style="background: white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">INSTAGRAM</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #212529; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">|</span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/KatieOliverWriter"><b><span style="background: white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">FACEBOOK</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #212529; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">|</span></b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7565829.Katie_Oliver"><b><span style="background: white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">GOODREADS</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #212529; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">In the heart of "<i><b>Cyanide and
Sensibility</b></i>," a delectable blend of romance, intrigue, and Austen-esque
charm awaits. Join us as we raise our teacups to Katie Oliver's upcoming
masterpiece, and let your journey into the Jane Austen Tea Society Mystery
series begin!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b>A<span style="font-size: medium;">ND FINALLY ... THE BOOK COVER FOR CYANIDE AND SENSIBILITY! ISN'T IT CUTE AND CATCHY? </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI6xTSFQ-bjo2WM-4LQ_4CsKNO2Vx8b5njIOBy1zSLTca_ebaHar1rX6llx77_hpnJ-jCaSBz3ZAPgO7a1lDsF4bnBQLZs4wniZcxQ77H-IUHk_odzW0irKqVjcCUnZFyQmwaFnPpeRmPl5VgZHgnetqGZIN7aI2qSW7VNTdZ0jRKOC06NLqUQwBi3ano/s1250/Cyanide%20and%20Sensibility%20cover%202023%20x%20755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1250" data-original-width="755" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI6xTSFQ-bjo2WM-4LQ_4CsKNO2Vx8b5njIOBy1zSLTca_ebaHar1rX6llx77_hpnJ-jCaSBz3ZAPgO7a1lDsF4bnBQLZs4wniZcxQ77H-IUHk_odzW0irKqVjcCUnZFyQmwaFnPpeRmPl5VgZHgnetqGZIN7aI2qSW7VNTdZ0jRKOC06NLqUQwBi3ano/w386-h640/Cyanide%20and%20Sensibility%20cover%202023%20x%20755.jpg" width="386" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8954683999390981517.post-84912923627562429212023-08-06T10:00:00.003+02:002023-08-08T16:40:18.999+02:00LOVING MISS TILNEY BLOG TOUR: EXCERPT AND GIVEAWAY<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy5PBANNKEgsy55-9YJ_CS0PuPssjIWUGfoTN8KKa1CSt7nQUJR8WSNuxRL53kW9i8fDh7s8fIpA98cU0skfWqtdOuQuwUWqk6y0zjTcIo8SKIVLpCMbiOI3l4vp1xHY8qCVGPw58AD46DO39YCEf3hMym15cenJzOtW_oLUY2SW0ZAqaEDflVFxlsd5w/s2700/HeatherMoll_LovingMissTilney.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2700" data-original-width="1800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy5PBANNKEgsy55-9YJ_CS0PuPssjIWUGfoTN8KKa1CSt7nQUJR8WSNuxRL53kW9i8fDh7s8fIpA98cU0skfWqtdOuQuwUWqk6y0zjTcIo8SKIVLpCMbiOI3l4vp1xHY8qCVGPw58AD46DO39YCEf3hMym15cenJzOtW_oLUY2SW0ZAqaEDflVFxlsd5w/w426-h640/HeatherMoll_LovingMissTilney.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Dear readers and fellow Jane Austen enthusiasts,</i></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>I am thrilled to introduce you to a lovely new release from the talented author, Heather Moll. As you know, Heather has graced us with her literary brilliance before, and today, I am excited to present her newest release: "<b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Loving-Miss-Tilney-Variation-Northanger/dp/B0C87W9HVJ">Loving Miss Tilney</a></b>." This enchanting tale takes inspiration from Jane Austen's beloved work, "Northanger Abbey," and promises to sweep you off your feet into a world of longing, scheming, and undeniable passion. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><br /><br /><b style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Book Blurb: Loving Miss Tilney</u></b><br /><br /><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In a world where society's strict rules and expectations reign, Eleanor Tilney finds herself trapped in a life of isolation. Heather Moll masterfully captures Eleanor's struggle as she defies convention and dares to pursue her own happiness. The story unfolds as Eleanor faces the heart-wrenching decision between love and societal standing.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Philip Brampton, a man with no fortune to his name, stands by Eleanor's side through thick and thin, showcasing unwavering loyalty and devotion. As they navigate the treacherous waters of love and social hierarchy, their relationship is put to the ultimate test. Can their love withstand the trials and tribulations that come their way?</span></div></span><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>Read an excerpt</u></b><br /><br />Here's an exclusive excerpt from "Loving Miss Tilney" to catch a glimpse of Eleanor and Philip's poignant journey introduced by the author herself. Enjoy reading!</span><div><br /></div><div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><b>Thanks for welcoming me back Maria Grazia to talk about Eleanor Tilney! <i>Loving
Miss Tilney </i>takes place mostly at Lord Longtown’s house in Herefordshire,
the contrived visit that General Tilney puts together at the last moment as an
excuse to kick out Catherine Morland. And that’s where Eleanor puts her plan in
place to settle for any rich husband her father will approve of just to get
away from Northanger Abbey.<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><b>In this excerpt, Eleanor and her long-time
love, the poor Philip Brampton, are talking about their friend Vaughan’s affair
with a married woman.The elephant in the room is Eleanor’s intention to marry
the rich but unlikable Sir Charles Sudbury just to get away from her
controlling father. Eleanor and Philip are in love with each other, but General
Tilney will only allow Eleanor to marry wealthy man, and Eleanor has reached
her breaking point living at Northanger. </b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><b><i><span style="font-size: medium;">Heather Moll</span></i></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><b><i></i></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>Eleanor fell quiet, and an uncomfortable
silence ensued. Philip wondered if she felt the troubling hint at a married
woman carrying on an affair with a lover as much as he did. Neither of them
would countenance such a thing.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>The marriage of either of them would
ultimately end their friendship. The longing looks, the heightened feelings
that always came to the surface when they were near had grown from a childhood
love, and had only intensified over the last five years.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>He slowly took hold of her hand. “You
really want to try for Sir—”<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>“He is a means to an end,” she said
firmly. She stared at their joined hands for a moment before giving a wry
laugh. “Although I doubt Sir Charles is interested; I tried to talk to him at
breakfast and he hardly replied.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";">That is because you are wearing a day gown
and he did not have as clear a view of your breasts as he did last night.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>Rather than say something rude, Philip
said, “Your father noticed, and has already inquired as to Sir Charles’s
fortune. General Tilney shall see it all arranged for you and you can be Lady
Sudbury before the end of the summer.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>“Of course he did,” Eleanor muttered. “How
dare anything on earth be brought forward if he does not interfere?”<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>Philip stroked his thumb across the top of
her hand. His modest, poised, self-confident Eleanor rarely admitted to such
things about her father. Philip gave his head a shake. Not my Eleanor.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>He gave her hand a little squeeze. “I will
do anything to see you happy. You will not ask me, but do you want me to help
foster Sir Charles’s interest in you?”<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>“Philip! That, that would be cruel to ask
you to—” She stopped suddenly and gave him a piercing look. “Tell me, do you
think I am cruel? I do not want to hurt you. I am doing what I must to
be free from—”<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>“No, you are not the cruel one.” It was
the closest he could come to saying that her father was a cruel man, even if
they both knew it was true. “I can talk with Sir Charles when our being in the
same house throws us together and encourage him in the idea of matrimony. The
rest shall be up to you.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>“I am still uncertain that he is
interested, but I shall try.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>“He seemedinterested in you last night,”
he said cautiously.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>“He seemed interested in looking at my
chest.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>“Eleanor!” he cried with a shy laugh.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>She laughed along with him. “And I would
be a fool to presume that means he would like to make me mistress of
Colborne Park.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>“You could try wearing a different style
of gown during the day and drop a great deal many things that you must slowly
bend over to retrieve.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>“You are wicked!” She swatted his arm
playfully with the back of her hand, still holding his hand with the other.
“No, I dare not scandalise any discreet matrons or older gentlemen.” She gave
him an earnest look. “I do not think I truly could make an exhibition of
myself.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>“I know you would never, my dear.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>She gave him a soft look. “You treat me
better than I deserve,” she said before giving his hand a fierce kiss.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>Philip remembered the first time he kissed
Eleanor Tilney. It was a tentative, warm brush of lips to lips when she was
seventeen; and over time they grew to kissing for a long while in stolen
moments until her cheeks were flushed and her lips swollen. The embraces grew
in intensity and frequency over the years, finally culminating last January in
Northanger while they were snowed in together and her father was gone.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";">And when we accepted that General Tilney
would never allow us to marry.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>Philip kissed her hand and gently let it
go. She gave him a sad look at first, and he watched understanding fill her
eyes as she nodded knowingly and moved as far away as the sofa would allow.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif";"><i>At that moment, the door opened and
General Tilney entered; and Philip was grateful for their fortunate good timing
as they both rose.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><br /><br /><b style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Book Giveaway Contest</u></b><br /><br /><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To celebrate this momentous release, we are hosting an exciting book giveaway contest for our cherished readers. Three lucky winners will have the chance to win a copy of "Loving Miss Tilney" and immerse themselves in the captivating world crafted by Heather Moll.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To enter the giveaway, use </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b388cc4811/?">THIS LINK</a>. </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Don't forget to spread the word and share this post with your fellow book lovers!</span></div></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">N.B. The giveaway is open from 08/01/2023 12:00am EST through 08/12/2023
12:00am EST and is open worldwide.
One winner will be chosen at random and notified via email on August
12, 2023. Winner has 24 hours to reply and claim their prize or another
winner will be drawn. </div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4I0Haf3OUa4VkoHEEwEK__nsPXtmktC6bIPccDqDo_Sd6w5ArbjhW3nW8WofY3oBdRL62XyZs9Au4dpnPn3HMGznUPi-PxepC9tIgxX09fGGjXAZJwUn8WN1v0fiwn1a4rvSwKoqxc3xOGs2V6Hdqej3YALOtEcFJwIP34_ps4ee8EnwhlRt4fINbrs/s1080/tilney%20giveaway.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4I0Haf3OUa4VkoHEEwEK__nsPXtmktC6bIPccDqDo_Sd6w5ArbjhW3nW8WofY3oBdRL62XyZs9Au4dpnPn3HMGznUPi-PxepC9tIgxX09fGGjXAZJwUn8WN1v0fiwn1a4rvSwKoqxc3xOGs2V6Hdqej3YALOtEcFJwIP34_ps4ee8EnwhlRt4fINbrs/w640-h640/tilney%20giveaway.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Heather Moll's "Loving Miss Tilney" is a tale of love's enduring power, determination in the face of adversity, and the unbreakable bond between kindred spirits. If you're a fan of Jane Austen's timeless classics, prepare to be enchanted by this remarkable homage.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Get your copy of "</span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Loving-Miss-Tilney-Variation-Northanger/dp/B0C87W9HVJ">Loving Miss Tilney</a></b><span style="font-family: inherit;">" today and embark on a journey of romance, intrigue, and the pursuit of true love against all odds.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy reading, dear friends!</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yours in literature, MG 💕</span></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Maria Graziahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08876779286144473782noreply@blogger.com1