Mr Darcy’s Christmas Calendar – Book Launch – Jane Odiwe

I’m so excited to announce the publication of Mr Darcy’s Christmas Calendar! Can you believe it’s November already? I’ve been getting in the Christmas spirit, though I’ve not done very much shopping yet – I love the upcoming festive season, but there is always so much to do, isn’t there?

I’ve been wanting to finish writing this book for a couple of years now, and I’m so glad I managed it this year – I’ve had such a lovely time writing it. Thank you for sharing my special day!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fourthly, I have two Advent calendarspostcard size – with doors to open every day during the month of December. These are very traditional with a picture behind each door, rather like the calendar in my book, except I can’t promise they’ll be quite as magical!

 

Finally, here’s Chapter Three, which I hope you will enjoy! If you missed the previous chapters, you can read Chapter One here, and Chapter Two here.

Chapter Three

Lizzy reluctantly followed Mrs Bennet up the narrow staircase to the first floor, and just along the corridor until they stopped in front of a white painted door on which was yet another number. This time, the figure three was fashioned out of brass, and hanging below it on a hook, she saw a framed miniature painting. It was a watercolour of two girls dressed alike in simple, white muslin dresses, exquisitely painted. The girl on the left reminded her very much of the portrait of Jane Austen that Lizzy had once seen in the National Portrait Gallery, except that she looked much younger without her spinster cap. Her hair was dressed on top of her head with curls falling round her face. She was smiling with such warmth that her hazel eyes appeared to sparkle in the light. With her head inclined towards the girl next to her she held out her hand, from which were suspended three pendants on gold chains. The very pretty girl seated at her side gazed back at her with a similar look and expression. There was no doubt who she could be in Lizzy’s mind and all at once, she heard a whisper which seemed to confirm what she’d guessed.

JAbedroom‘Cass,’ said a voice softly in her ear, and thinking there must be someone else behind her, Lizzy swung round. There was no one there, and Mrs Bennet, who was busy jangling keys, selected one before stepping forward to unlock the door. Leading her into a modest-sized room with a view out onto the garden, there were two canopied beds filling the room, hung with curtains in blue check. On either side of the fireplace were two cupboards, which gave tantalising glimpses of the contents within. Shelves of blue and white china on the left displayed a handsome washbowl and jug and on the opposite side the tall cupboard door had been left open showing dresses hanging neatly in a row.

bedchair‘You can have the Miss Austens’ room tonight,’ said Mrs Bennet, taking out one of the gowns before shutting the cupboard doors. ‘They won’t be needing it, seeing as Cassandra is away and Jane has left already because she’ll be sleeping at the Great House this evening. The sisters have always shared a room, you know. Full of secrets they are, almost as sly as my eldest girls for keeping confidences. Your namesake, Elizabeth, she’s the worst of the lot! Now, Lydia is a different kettle of fish. She has no secrets from her dear mama!’

Lizzy was beginning to think that “Mrs Bennet” was taking all this play-acting a bit far. It was one thing to dress up and put on a performance for the sake of visitors to the house, but it was after closing time now. To tell the truth, it was starting to unnerve her, but she felt she couldn’t really question the lady.

‘I am to sleep in here? Is it allowed?’ asked Lizzy.

‘Well, I’m sure it is if Miss Jane requested it herself. She can be very fussy, to my way of thinking, but a bed’s a bed, I say, and it does no good to be too particular!’

‘Jane Austen said I could sleep in her bed?’ Lizzy couldn’t help herself and laughed out loud. ‘Oh, now I really am in Fairyland!’

‘Fairyland? No dear, you’re in Chawton, just until the snow melts. I shall leave you now. The housemaid will help you undress, as I daresay Mrs Hill will be attending to my daughters. And I’m sure she’ll have lots to say about what you should wear tomorrow evening.’

‘What I should wear?’

‘Why, you’re to go to the ball. Miss Jane said you should attend with everyone else. You can go in the carriage with my girls, if the lane has been cleared in time. The men are out there now with Mr Hill, and no doubt, they’ll be back again in the morning, and come back frozen to the bone. This is the worst snow we’ve seen since Lydia was born and that was a winter I never thought I’d survive. Not that I ever complain. As I said to Mrs Lucas, no good ever comes of grumbling, though I feel perfectly justified to complain on the subject of Mr Bingley. My poor daughter – he will keep her waiting for an announcement.’

Mrs Bennet smoothed the counterpane, muttering under her breath and shaking her head, oblivious to the fact that Lizzy was there, and she was still talking and lamenting Jane’s lot as she exited and made her way down the stairs.

JAbedLizzy looked about her now she was alone. It was a very cosy room, she saw, with a chocolate rug on the floor and striped wallpaper on the walls. A jug of holly and ivy on the windowsill before the casement gave it a festive air, the scarlet berries glistening in the candlelight. The oval looking glass above the fireplace reflected her face, pale and slightly anxious, but she was comforted by the sounds of a clock ticking and wood crackling on the fire as it burned. There were bookshelves, and Lizzy couldn’t help picking up a copy of a volume of Camilla by Fanny Burney. She’d read once that she was one of Jane’s favourite authors – what a lot of trouble the curators of the house had made to get all the details right, she thought. There were all sorts of personal objects left lying around – a pair of spectacles, a thimble and a needlecase were left neatly on the mantelshelf at one side and an ebony hand mirror, a patch box and a bottle of lavender water were arranged on the other. Two pretty reticules dangled from a wooden chair by the fire, and a piece of lace was folded over the top. On a handsome tambour desk, two Tunbridge workboxes sat on top in pride of place. The lid of the desk was rolled back and Lizzy could see the contents inside. There was a pile of music, each carefully transcribed note beautifully sketched upon fine lines, and there were several songs, she noted: The Soldier’s Adieu, Robin Adair, and The Yellow Hair’d Laddie, looked well-thumbed and were covered in personal notes and alterations. A sheaf of paper in the middle of the desk looked like a manuscript file and there was a bottle of ink and a well-used pen, its feathers short and stubby. Drawn to the writing like a magnet, Lizzy tried very hard not to look and for at least a minute, she avoided reading the top page. However, like a heroine in a novel, the temptation proved too much. What she read really surprised her!

Elizabeth or Lizzy, as her family named her, had never been to a ball before. There were not funds for such gaieties and now she had been invited to such an occasion, Lizzy felt uncertain about what to do and how to behave. Young and inexperienced, with little confidence in her own style, she worried that she would make an ill-advised decision about how to be dressed. But, her friend came to the rescue in time, and loaned her a dress to wear, a gown to surpass all others she had ever possessed. To be fine, dressed in white, was a thought that pleased her, so when the maid came to help her she gave in readily to all her ministrations. There was one further concern. So few were her ornaments and jewels that she suffered an anxious moment, enough to sober her spirits even under the prospect of a ball given principally in her honour. However, on receipt of a note accompanying a jewel box in the drawer of the desk all was resolved.

Lizzy read it through twice. She had a feeling that this had been especially written for her to find. Was it a coincidence that the girl described in the passage seemed just like her? There were several small drawers in the interior of the desk. Pulling each one out a little fraction, whilst simultaneously pretending that she wasn’t in the least bit curious, she almost squealed when in the very last one she discovered a slim leather box and a note addressed simply to “Lizzy”.

 

Inside was a poem.

 

This little trinket I hope will prove

To be not vainly made

For if you desire an ornament

It will afford you aid.

 

And if we ever need to part

T’will serve another end,

For when you look upon this jewel

You’ll recollect your Freind.

Jane Austen 3rd December 1811

 

  XXX_358_1381840884_1-02 Lizzy opened the box, her fingers trembling in anticipation. She gasped when she saw its contents. Lifting the precious treasure from its box Lizzy discovered a beautiful topaz cross, suspended on a gold chain. She knew she’d seen it before and remembering the painting of the two sisters she flew to the door to take a look. There it was – her cross, along with two others that Jane held in her hand. What she hadn’t noticed before was the plaque underneath which gave a little history of the painting.

This watercolour of Jane and Cassandra Austen was painted shortly after their sailor brother Charles presented them with topaz crosses bought with his prize money in 1801. There is a third cross in the painting, about which we currently have no record or information.  

So, there was a little mystery about the beautiful jewel she held. Lizzy wondered if she dared try it on. Picking up the note, she read it through again looking for any clues that might tell if it was really hers to wear. What struck her as rather strange, was the date at the bottom of the poem. This note had been written almost to the day in 1811, the year that Pride and Prejudice had been written and revised.

Lizzy’s eyes alighted on the Advent calendar she’d left on the bed. A strange light was glowing from the doors of all three, illuminating the objects within. Although she knew she hadn’t opened doors two and three, she saw they were open now. December first shone with the picture of Lydia’s pink bonnet, December second showed an invitation announcement, and before she’d even peeped at the door of December third, Lizzy knew exactly what she’d find. Twinkling and golden, the topaz cross and chain glittered in the eerie light looking identical to the one she now placed around her neck. It had been December first when she’d arrived at the house. How could it now be December third?

The sound of footsteps on the stairs had her darting round, but she needn’t have been frightened. It was only the housemaid, Sally, come to help her settle in and see that everything was to her satisfaction.

I hope you enjoyed it! Don’t forget to leave a comment if you’d like to win a prize – and come back on the 12th November when the winners will be announced! 

161 comments

Skip to comment form

    • Ada on November 4, 2014 at 12:48 am
    • Reply

    I am extremely proud of you my dearest Jane.
    In addition I am having an anxiety episod, because I am dying to know what happens next….I should not have read your recently posted excerpt…not inthe middle of my insomnia war

    1. Thank you, Adalgisa-you are always so kind-hope you get some sleep soon!

    • Wendy Roberts on November 4, 2014 at 12:52 am
    • Reply

    I am enjoying reading each chapter as you release it!

    1. Thank you, Wendy-I’m so glad you’re enjoying it.

    • Lisa G. on November 4, 2014 at 1:12 am
    • Reply

    I haven’t read any of your chapter posts on this book, as I knew as soon as I read the blurb on the story that I wanted to read the whole thing and I didn’t want to spoil my pleasure in reading it as a whole. I am waiting with happy anticipation to read this at Christmas. Am very happy to know it will be released in time.

    An Australian fan.

    1. Thank you, Lisa-I really hope you enjoy it if you get a chance to read it.

  1. I like the anticipation of each day. Will there be a chapter for each day? I think it would be interesting to have this occur to me. Great idea!

    1. Patty, there’s a chapter for each day-even one for Christmas Day. I hope you enjoy it if you get the chance.

    • Ladylee33 on November 4, 2014 at 2:02 am
    • Reply

    I am so loving this book Jane. You work so very hard to make each word matter! I love your style of writing. It gives me so much pleasure 🙂

    1. Thank you, Lee for your kind comments-I just hope my writing reflects my love for Jane Austen and her work!

    • Carol on November 4, 2014 at 2:33 am
    • Reply

    Enjoy reading your posted chapters. Wouldn’t this be magical. Would love the adventurous journey.

    1. Thank you, Carol-you’ve guessed it-this book is complete wish fulfilment!

  2. I love this Jane Austen fairytale, Jane. We all dream of being able to enter Jane Austen’s world and you make it seem real. I love that you have Mrs. Bennet being the gatekeeper!!!

    1. Thank you, Monica-yes, that’s just how I wanted it to be-like a fairytale. Mrs B comes into her own!

    • JoanneF on November 4, 2014 at 3:35 am
    • Reply

    Looking forward to the rest of the story!

    1. Thank you, JoanneF!

    • Christa on November 4, 2014 at 3:43 am
    • Reply

    I am really looking forward to this. What a great idea. Thank you.

    1. Thank you, Christa!

    • Christa on November 4, 2014 at 3:49 am
    • Reply

    I just finished reading the first chapter. I’m hooked, It’s a wonderful story. I am really looking forward to the rest. What a great idea. Thank you.

    1. That’s very kind, Christa-hope you enjoy the rest!

    • Paige on November 4, 2014 at 4:20 am
    • Reply

    It does not seem possible that it is November already! The prizes are all lovely! Congratulations on your book launch. It is such a clever and fun story.

  3. No, how has that happened, Paige? Must be because I’m getting old-the years are starting to whizz by! Thank you-hope you get a chance to read it.

    • Deborah on November 4, 2014 at 5:52 am
    • Reply

    Jane, I have loved the story so far. Amazon has delivered my preordered book, so hopefully I can finish it after work tonight. Your giveaway is so generous as well. Congratulations on the release!

    1. Thank you, Deborah for your lovely comments! I’m glad your book has arrived-I’d love to know what you think!

    • Jennifer Hong on November 4, 2014 at 6:31 am
    • Reply

    Congratulations on the book. I can’t wait to read the whole thing. What a great launch give away contest too. All of the prizes sound fantastic.

    1. Thank you, Jennifer-I hope you enjoy it if you get a chance to read it.

    • Vesper Meikle on November 4, 2014 at 6:38 am
    • Reply

    I have been enjoying reading these chapters, hope to read the rest

    1. Thank you, Vesper-hope you get a chance to read the rest.

    • Melati1021 on November 4, 2014 at 6:46 am
    • Reply

    looking forward to read the rest of the story.

    1. Thank you, Melati, for stopping by!

    • Maggie Griscom on November 4, 2014 at 6:57 am
    • Reply

    Oh, I have been waiting for this day. I haven’t read any of the post because I wanted to read this story as a whole. I read Mrs. Darcy’s Diamonds in one setting and was so glad I did. It has been cold here and is a perfect time to sit on the couch with an old throw and read a bood about Christmas. Congratulations on another book launch. I look forward to many more…..

    1. Thank you, Maggie-that’s so kind of you. I hope you enjoy it-I’d love to know what you think!

    • Charlene on November 4, 2014 at 7:09 am
    • Reply

    Oh my god! Just love this Jane! I really want to win especially since the give a way day is my 55 Birthday. What a gift! Seriously I would love to win and if I don’t well i’ll just have to buy for my Bday! Hehehe. You are such a talented writer and artist and we are all grateful that you share your talent with us! Thanks. Now off to reading.

    1. Charlene, thank you, and Happy Birthday for the 12th-mine is on the 10th-so we’re very close, but I’m two years older- : )
      I hope you get a chance to read it!

        • Deborah on November 4, 2014 at 8:51 am
        • Reply

        And mine is on the 14th, 2 days after, and I’m a tad younger (half a century). 🙂

        1. Deborah-I’m keeping very good company I can see! How exciting-we’ll have to have an online party!

          1. Mine is on the 16th – November babies rock! (I’ll be 35)
            🙂

              • Deborah on November 4, 2014 at 7:58 pm

              So many of us within a few days of each other and yhd drawing. A magical time for the 4 of us. Time travel anyone?

    • Victoria on November 4, 2014 at 7:18 am
    • Reply

    Pre-order the book. Just got email from Amazon. Can’t wait to read it.

    Victoria

    1. Thank you, Victoria-so kind of you-let me know what you think!

    • Victoria on November 4, 2014 at 7:20 am
    • Reply

    Pre-order the book. Just received email from Amazon. Can’t wait to read the book.

    Victoria

    • Cheryl C. on November 4, 2014 at 7:35 am
    • Reply

    Loved the first 3 chapters, and looking forward to reading the rest!! 🙂

    1. Thank you so much, Cheryl-I hope you enjoy it if you get the chance to read it.

    • Linda Clark on November 4, 2014 at 7:43 am
    • Reply

    What a good, good morning this has been. Yet another delightful chapter to read plus an email from Amazon confirming the delivery of “Mr.Darcy’s Christmas Calendar” to my tablet! Thank you, Jane, for what I know will be one of the most interesting and unusual stories based on the theme of “Pride and Prejudice”. I can’t help but add your contest and all the prizes you are offering is also a great add-on to the launch of this, your newest, work. I hope your day is as wonderful for you as the start of our day, your enthralled readers, has been! Congratulations to you – especially today.

    1. Thank you, Linda-that’s so lovely of you. I really hope you enjoy it-please let me know what you think!

  4. I’m so glad you finally finished the book, too! Darcy and Christmas … what an irresistible combination! Thanks for the wonderful giveaway.

    Susan Heim
    smhparent [at] hotmail [dot] com

    1. Susan, I could not resist both Darcy and Christmas combined! Thank you for stopping by.

    • Katrin @kaewink on November 4, 2014 at 8:22 am
    • Reply

    Hi Jane, what a lovely excterpt. I´m sooo excited to get reading soon. I´m 2/3 through Mr.Darcys Secret at the moment, a chick-lit novella ebook afterwards and then I´m on to Mr.Darcys Christmas Calender!
    The Advent Calenders – with Choc and without all look wonderful! And the cards too. Keeping my fingers crossed! 🙂
    Congrats on Launch Day!

    1. You’re doing well managing to read so much with a little one-I used to snatch those precious hours when I could-a little escapism is good for the soul! Thank you for stopping by, and for your lovely support. I’d love to know what you think of the books!

  5. HUGE congrats, Jane!!!
    What a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season 🙂 .

    1. Thank you, Marilyn-I really appreciate you stopping by!

    • Stephanie L on November 4, 2014 at 8:58 am
    • Reply

    One of the first things I saw this morning was that Mr. Darcy’s Christmas Calendar has been safely delivered to my Kindle app. Woo Hoo!! Thanks for sharing another excerpt, I’m hoping to get the chance to just sit down and savor every Christmasy fantasy morsel, but it may be later in the season before I get to do that. That’s okay too, it IS about Christmas after all. =D Congrats on your release!

  6. Thank you, Stephanie for your lovely support and kind comments! Yes, save it for Christmas-there are 25 chapters – one for every day including Christmas Day. I’d love to know what you think when you’ve read it!

    • Caroline on November 4, 2014 at 9:07 am
    • Reply

    reading each chapter is like opening a very special advent calendar. Thank you for thi inventive way to celebrate the season.

    1. Thank you, Caroline, for your lovely comments! That’s just the effect I wanted to achieve.

    • Pam Hunter on November 4, 2014 at 9:38 am
    • Reply

    Congratulations on your newest, most magical story yet, Jane! I can’t wait to read the rest!

    • Mary S on November 4, 2014 at 9:39 am
    • Reply

    Bring on the snow! Ready to curl up and enjoy this lovely read!!

    1. I love the snow too, Mary. Thank you for your kind comment!

  7. Thank you for your kind words, Pam! I hope you get the chance to read it!

    • Nicolé on November 4, 2014 at 11:03 am
    • Reply

    Looking forward to read more

    1. Thank you, Nicole.

    • Stephanie Mudd Carrico on November 4, 2014 at 11:03 am
    • Reply

    Congratulations on your new book….it sounds delightful and is going on my TBR list…
    Christmas is a magical time of year…your book seems as magical
    looking forward to reading it..

    1. Thank you, Stephanie, for your very kind comments! I hope you get a chance to read it.

    • charlotte knavel on November 4, 2014 at 11:12 am
    • Reply

    I can’t wait to read another of your stories. Jan Austen and Christmas what more can a fan want for the holidays?

    1. Thank you, Charlotte-I must admit, I wrote a book I’d like to read : )

    • Jerri on November 4, 2014 at 11:31 am
    • Reply

    Enjoying the chapters, can’t wait for the book!

    1. Thank you, Jerri!

    • Mari on November 4, 2014 at 11:41 am
    • Reply

    I love these sneak peaks at new books and I think it’s a great idea, because we can get a glimpse of the delights in store. If I know what a book is like and the writing style, I am more likely to buy it. This past week had been especially busy, and when I woke up today and checked my email, I found that the book had already downloaded onto my kindle. You have no idea how huge my smile was. I think I was in danger of cracking my face. I love all of your books so much, and I really love the novellas. They are a wonderful treat: very addictive, easy to read, and very enjoyable. This was my birthday present to myself, and I like it better than my flourless chocolate cake. That was delicious, but this is even more delicious. I expect to have finished it before the day is over, and there are no carbs! Thank you Jane for another wonderful glimpse at our favorite characters, reimagined. This is completely different than anything I have ever read, and I love it. The idea and your writing style make for stolen hours of pure enchantment and magic.

    1. Thank you, Mari-you’re always so generous and kind with your comments. I’d love to know what you think when you’ve finished the book!

    • Mari on November 4, 2014 at 11:44 am
    • Reply

    I forgot to say how lovely the cover is. It really adds another wonderful dimension. I also really enjoy the photographs and your Pinterest pages. Those are delightful. You really go the extra mile for us and we truly appreciate it.

    1. Thank you, Mari-I loved designing the cover – and Pinterest is such fun – a guilty pleasure, indeed! I really appreciate you and your comments.

    • Betty Campbell Madden on November 4, 2014 at 11:52 am
    • Reply

    I’m very much looking forward to reading your new book and adding it to my P&P collection. Thank you in advance for the pleasure I anticipate.

    1. Thank you, Betty-I hope you get the chance to read it!

  8. So I haven’t read the chapters rather deliberately because I was waiting to read the book. Have said that, I snuck in a bit of reading. I love it already. I am a huge fan, Jane. I love seeing Jane Austen come alive through your eyes. You somehow pull me in, making me wish I was a part of the story. When I read, I want to feel as if I belong, as if I am within those pages and you don’t disappoint.
    I love a hard copy but I can’t wait, so I might have to download it. Hugs

    1. Shamitri, thank you so much-you’re always so generous with your lovely comments. I do hope you enjoy the book!

  9. Congrats on the release of your new book, Jane. And thanks for another beautiful excerpt. It certainly cheered me up after enduring a gloomy day. I really really love the prizes that you are offering and I hope to be one of the winners.

    1. Thank you, Luthien84, for your lovely comments. Good luck with the draw!

    • Cindy von Hentschel on November 4, 2014 at 1:07 pm
    • Reply

    Oh, fingers crossed!! This sounds like such a fun read!

    I’d FREAK if I received something that belonged to Jane Austen!

    Love the cover also!!

    1. Thank you, Cindy! Can you imagine how wonderful it would be to own something that belonged to Jane? I hope you get a chance to read the book.

        • Cindy von Hentschel on November 4, 2014 at 1:47 pm
        • Reply

        If I don’t win it, I’m buying it. It’s a definite read.

        1. Cindy-you’re very kind!

    • Diana on November 4, 2014 at 1:10 pm
    • Reply

    You have opened up a whole new world – brilliant!

    1. Thank you, Diana!

  10. Lovely story!!! Thank you for posting it here for our enjoyment! 🙂

      • Florence Solowianiuk on November 4, 2014 at 1:29 pm
      • Reply

      I’m curious to see where this story will go. It reads like time travel with a twist.

      1. Florence-it is time travel with a twist! I hope you get a chance to read more!

          • Stephanie L on November 4, 2014 at 2:22 pm
          • Reply

          How can you NOT love Austen AND time travel in the same book. I mean really? LOL

          1. Stephanie, we are of like minds! : ) I love a bit of Jane Austen and time travel!

    1. It’s a pleasure, Susanne-so pleased you enjoyed it!

    • Hazel Mills on November 4, 2014 at 1:45 pm
    • Reply

    I’ve been holding off reading the chapters until I had won the chocolate but it looks like there’s going to be a lot o competition and I will have to curl up in a comfy chair with the book and chocolate I have purchased myself; no problem! Can’t wait to read it all ~ Christmas, chocolate, time travel and Janes Austen and Odiwe! Perfect!

    1. Thank you, Hazel-you are lovely! Thanks so much for stopping to leave a comment on launch day.

    • Allison Krzastek on November 4, 2014 at 2:00 pm
    • Reply

    This is lovely so far – I can’t wait to read the whole thing! Thanks for posting. 🙂

    1. Thank you, Allison-I hope you get the chance to read it.

    • Schilds on November 4, 2014 at 2:23 pm
    • Reply

    I am so in love with this story already. I want to curl up next to a good fire with a blanket and hot chocolate to truly enjoy it. Your giveaway is quite generous, so many goodies! BEAUTIFUL Cover.

    1. Thank you, Schilds-I’m so glad you’re enjoying it-hope you get the chance to read more!

  11. What a fabulous bunch of prizes! Yes please I’d love to enter! I am really enjoying Mr. Darcy’s Diamonds, by the way!

    1. Thank you, Nicole-so thrilled to hear you’re enjoying my last novella!

    • Desiree B on November 4, 2014 at 3:07 pm
    • Reply

    As a child our mom would always get us advent calendars, they come form Germany.
    love your books and this one looks good need to read it!!

    1. Desiree-my mum always bought us Advent calendars-the German ones are the most magical, I think, especially the old-fashioned glittered ones! Thank you for stopping to leave such kind comments.

    • Carole in Canada on November 4, 2014 at 3:39 pm
    • Reply

    Congratulations Jane! The music Lizzy saw, reminded me of ‘Project Darcy’! Magical is the appropriate word…this story is delightful and I can’t wait to read in full. We are already on the 4th of November and Christmas is not far behind. I have started my Christmas shopping but I always agonize over each person’s gifts hoping I have selected something that has meaning and use to them. I so love Christmas that I want it to be so special. The advent calendar inspiration is so perfect. Thank you for the giveaway! Good luck to all!

    1. Thank you, Carole, for your lovely comments! I’ve only just started my shopping, and I’m just like you-I can never give anything that hasn’t been agonised over, but it’s part of the pleasure, isn’t it?

  12. That is so cool, your own calendar…and choco!

    1. Thank you, Linda-it was a lot of fun to make. I’m hoping the chocolate will be good!

    • Susan K. on November 4, 2014 at 5:56 pm
    • Reply

    I am loving this story so far….I would love to own it!

    1. Thank you, Susan!

    • Stacy on November 4, 2014 at 6:29 pm
    • Reply

    Can’t wait to read the whole book!

    1. Thank you, Stacy!

  13. I’m just loving this and I can’t wait to read the whole book. If I thought I could do it, I’d start on 12/1 and read a chapter a day until Christmas but I know I’ll end up reading it all at once!

    1. Thank you, Monica-I’m a bit like that with chocolates… thanks for stopping by-I hope you get the chance to read the whole book!

    • Amy B on November 4, 2014 at 7:09 pm
    • Reply

    What lovely giveaways! Thank you for the opportunity. I am looking forward to reading this new book of yours. It sounds fantastic!

    1. Thank you, Amy for your kind comments-I hope you get the chance to read it!

    • Elaine on November 4, 2014 at 9:47 pm
    • Reply

    Enjoying this so much! I can’t wait to read the rest of the story!

    1. Thank you, Elaine-I hope you get the chance to read the rest!

    • Kathy Wallace on November 4, 2014 at 10:08 pm
    • Reply

    This looks delightful! Just in time for the holidays!

    1. Thank you, Kathy, for your kind comments!

    • TLeighF on November 4, 2014 at 10:22 pm
    • Reply

    Congratulations on the book launch, Jane! I am loving the story so far and can’t wait to read more. I love how it shifts back and forth between now and the past, inching closer and closer to the past each time. Really fun and a perfect read for these cold days.

    1. Thank you, Tobin-I’m so pleased you’re enjoying it-I loved writing it!

    • Anji on November 5, 2014 at 3:12 am
    • Reply

    Believe it or not, Jane, we actually did some Christmas shopping in February! We paid a winter visit to the Isle of Man and there’s a shop there that sells lots of unusual things, mainly with a Celtic theme, which we couldn’t resist. In it’s way, the island is a magical place, too. Steam trains, trams, Manx folklore, including fairies and Celtic themes – one of our favourite places in the world.

    Your new work is just magical, as well. Loving these chapters you’ve posted. As you know, I’m a bit (OK, a lot) of a sci-fi geek, so a tale that combines Jane Austen with anything like time travel will always go down a treat with me.

    The giveaway you’ve arranged is extremely generous, thank you. Any of the gifts would be fantastic to win, and if I don’t win any or do win something that isn’t the paperback, rest assured I’ll be buying that just because the cover is so gorgeous.

    Good luck with the launch!

  14. Anji, I know the Isle of Man well – my sister-in-law lives there. It is a great place to visit-love the history and castles, seal watching, etc! I’m so glad you’re enjoying the chapters-you’re always so kind-I hope you get a chance to read it!

    • Joana Starnes on November 5, 2014 at 7:13 am
    • Reply

    What a wonderful wonderful post and such generous giveaways!
    Thanks, Jane, and congrats!
    Best of luck with the launch, it makes the loveliest Christmas gift!

  15. Thank you, Joana-you’re very kind!

    • Barb Thompson on November 5, 2014 at 10:17 am
    • Reply

    Well, I would love to win a kindle copy of this lovely story. But, be assured, I will have a copy on my kindle one way or another! Congratulations on your book launch, Merry Christmas, and best wishes for the new year!

    Now, about Mr. Williams…..do tell…

  16. Thank you, Barb, for your lovely comments! My lips are sealed about Mr Williams… : )

    • Lilyane Soltz on November 5, 2014 at 12:39 pm
    • Reply

    Lizzy and Darcy at Christmas – what could be better? I am so looking forward to reading “Mr. Darcy’s Christmas Calendar”: thank you, Jane, for this new book and for all your wonderful books. Please don’t ever stop writing!

    Congratulations on your launch and happy holiday wishes to you and yours.

    1. Thank you, Lilyane-you’ve made my day. I’m not thinking of stopping writing just yet, I’ve got too many stories to tell. ; )

    • Nancy Duell on November 5, 2014 at 12:43 pm
    • Reply

    I Love the story so far. I have been a fan of yours for a while now and can’t seem to get enough Jane! I would also be thrilled to be the receipient of any of your giveaways. Congratulations on another book launch!

    1. Nancy-I feel truly honoured by your comments. Thank you so much for stopping by on my special day.

    • Michelle Fidler on November 5, 2014 at 5:08 pm
    • Reply

    Sounds like a good book. I enjoyed the excerpt. I have most of your books, except for the one before this. I’d love to win a paperback copy of the book. I don’t do e-books so I couldn’t use the Kindle gift card, only a regular Amazon one.

    1. Thank you, Michelle, and for all your kind support. I hope you get a chance to read the book!

  17. What a wonderful gift you have, Jane. How do you think up these marvelous stories? Thank you!!!

    1. Thank you, Jane-that’s so kind. It’s a funny thing, inspiration – I often think I’ve written my last book, and then another just pops into my head. : )

    • Patricia Finnegan on November 6, 2014 at 12:42 am
    • Reply

    I can not wait for the release! I love your books. 🙂

    1. Thank you, Patricia-you’re very kind!

    • Kathy on November 6, 2014 at 1:04 am
    • Reply

    Your story sounds so whimsical and fun – looking forward to reading the whole thing! Congratulations on your publication! The giveaways are intriguing – the old-fashioned Christmas designs are not something I see much around here (California)!

    1. Whimsical is a great word and very apt, I think, Kathy. I love anything old-fashioned-I’m very lucky, England is full of the old and antique. Thanks so much for stopping by.

    • HelenJC on November 6, 2014 at 2:55 am
    • Reply

    Lovely story. I really like the attention to detail. Look forward to the release! I’ll have to look up snapajack as well.

    1. Helen, thank you-yes, do look up Snapajack-there are lots of fun things to personalise on the site.

    • Beatrice on November 6, 2014 at 3:08 am
    • Reply

    It may be too early for Christmas decorations but not too early for your story! It’s reconciling me to the snow forecast for Friday.
    However I’ve been to Chawton Cottage, and now I’m going crazy wondering about the painting on the door to Jane and Cassandra’s room and the dresses in the closet. I didn’t notice either, and I can’t tell if they are only visible to YOUR eyes. I did admire the quilt Jane made, though.
    Do all your readers have birthdays in November and December? I’m in December, too.

    1. Beatrice, I’m afraid the little painting of Jane and Cass is only in my imagination-a bit of wish fulfilment on my part, and of course only possible to see by the magic of the calendar. Winter birthdays are lovely, I think-one of my sons has a birthday on the 7th December- hope you have a lovely one.

    • Jan Ashe on November 6, 2014 at 10:08 am
    • Reply

    What a great story this is and the cover is perfect. I would love to win a copy of your book!

    Congratulations on having this published in time for us to give this as Christmas gifts to our janeite friends!

    1. Thank you, Jan, for your lovely comments-I hope you get a chance to read it!

  18. I simply can not wait to read the whole book! What intrigue! This story line is so new and fresh! I absolutely love the idea behind it!
    Thank you for the peek into Lizzy’s world!

  19. Thank you, Angie-your comments are always so kind. I hope you get the chance to read it.

    1. You can count on it, one way or the other! LOL 😀

    • Constance on November 6, 2014 at 4:21 pm
    • Reply

    I have just become familiar with this site although I’ve been a fan of many authors featured here. It is amazing! I love the stries and Mr. Darcy’s Calendar is a fresh twist and I look forward to finishing it. Never too early for Christmas shopping!

  20. Thank you, Constance-so pleased you’re enjoying the blog-I’m in wonderful company with so many talented authors. I hope you get to finish my book!

    • Amanda Matthews on November 6, 2014 at 10:22 pm
    • Reply

    I’m very new to this site, but I’m so pleased to have discovered it. Yet another Jane Austen fan pretending to be an unpublished author whenever she can distract herself from her avid consumption of fanfiction.

    Thoroughly loving the delightful blend of history, mystery, and magic. A hint of romantic adventure is also a critical ingredient in any inspiringly fulfilling read, in my opinion. This story has it all, and seems almost to have been designed with me in mind. But I suspect many of us can easily say the same thing. Lizzy is most certainly living many a Janeite’s fantasy. I, as many others have likewise claimed, am very excited to soak up the rest of this story. Very well done, Jane!

    I’m about to take my very first trip to England, and this story has single-handedly made me feel quite determined to make the time for a Chawton tour, no matter what my 7-year-old son might wish to say about it. Though, lamentably, we cannot expect the magic, the beautiful history will still be there.

  21. Amanda, thank you so much for your lovely comments! You certainly will find magic at Chawton if you manage to get there-in my opinion the very top destination for any Jane Austen fan. To stand at the windows, knowing she stood there, and to see so many personal possessions is so amazing-if you manage it, let me know what you thought! I’m glad you like the site-do come back again, we have a lot to offer. Good luck with your own writing!

    • Sheila L. M. on November 7, 2014 at 12:37 pm
    • Reply

    This is definitely one of those books, which, if I don’t win – I buy. Perfect timing for the upcoming season. I already have some gifts bought in summer, but wrapped so no one can discover the contents ahead of time. Anji, your shop sounds delightful. I love shops like that and remember visiting a shop in Victoria, BC, where my daughter was wed which claimed to be the biggest Christmas ornament shop in the world. I must say that after a while in the shop I was sated and could not look at any more. I did make some purchases there.

    I love the mix of stories here and the surprise in time changes. Thank you for this chapter.

  22. We absolutely love the beautiful artwork on your book! Congratulations!

    1. Thank you, that’s so kind!

    • Eva E on November 8, 2014 at 4:21 pm
    • Reply

    I can only begin to imagine the excitement when the gift box was opened and the topaz cross was inside. Your idea of a Christmas Advent Calendar for the theme of this new book is wonderful. What is behind the next door? The Advent Calendars that you created look exquisite. Thank you for your very generous gifts. You are always so thoughtful to your readers.

    1. Thank you, Eva E-I’m thrilled you’re enjoying it and like the gifts!

    • Nicole Millheim on November 8, 2014 at 11:08 pm
    • Reply

    I am loving it!! Sounds wonderful

  23. Thank you, Nicole, for your kind comments!

  24. OOOOH I can’t wait to read Mr. Darcy’s Christmas Calendar! They say not to judge a book by its cover, but that one is gorgeous!

    1. Thank you, Shelly-glad you like the cover!

    • Lauren K. on November 9, 2014 at 5:04 pm
    • Reply

    Love what I’ve read so far! This book has the makings of being a story I’ll re-read every Christmas or whenever I want a hint of Christmas magic 🙂 hope I’m a winner! -Lauren K.

  25. Thank you, Lauren-what a lovely comment! I hope you get the chance to read it.

    • Debra Mc on November 10, 2014 at 1:55 pm
    • Reply

    Oh Jane! I’m home sick today, and popped over here to catch up. I’ve just read all three chapters all together and am entranced! I have wooden Advent houses that sit on tabletops for my adult children that I fill every year, so the Advent calendar caught my attention right away.

    And I’ve been to Chawton. My husband was a saint as I spent hours absorbing to place, knowing Jane had walked the same floorboards. This is lovely, and I can’t wait to read more.

  26. Debra-thank you-I’m so glad you enjoyed the chapters. Your wooden advent calendars sound wonderful-glad to hear I’m not the only one that still does this for adult children! : ) Chawton is wonderful, isn’t it? The village, Jane’s house and the big house are fantastic to visit-hope you get the chance to go again.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.