Susan Mason-Milks

Author's posts

P&P The Untold Stories: Mr. Bingley Proposes

Will Bingley come up to scratch? September 26, 1812 Charles Bingley had never experienced such nervous anticipation in his life. Today was the day. No excuses. No delays. Today, he was going to ask Miss Jane Bennet to be his wife. He’d been looking into the mirror rehearsing what to say when James, his valet, …

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P&P The Untold Stories: Mr. Bingley’s Regrets

Bingley looks back on his time with Jane Bennet February 8, 1812 Charles Bingley lingered at the breakfast table over a cup of coffee that had grown cold long ago. Although the newspaper from London was open in front of him, he had not read a word. His heart and mind were engaged elsewhere. Closing …

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Second Chances

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about the theme of second chances, perhaps because I’ve been working on what I’m hoping will grow up to be at least a novella. I love stories about couples who dated when they were young but broke up and eventually married other people. Then years later, they are reunited …

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Georgiana and the Snapdragons

Here’s a short excerpt from a work-in-progress that’s been sitting untouched for several years.  I’m in the process of reworking it with the hope of publishing in the fall. The working title has been Please, Mr. Darcy. In this variation, which takes place after the disastrous proposal and disagreement at Rosings, Elizabeth is staying in …

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No. 1 Royal Crescent, Bath

              One of the most recognizable architectural sites in Bath is The Royal Crescent. It is not one building but a series of townhouses united behind a graceful, curved facade designed by John Wood the Elder and John Wood the Younger in the later half of the 18th century. …

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P&P Behind the Scenes: Bingley Hears Darcy’s Confession

Bingley Hears Darcy’s Confession by Susan Mason-Milks At first, Bingley was certain he had misheard his friend. Then his confusion turned to anger as he took in the implications of what Darcy was saying. “I should plant you a facer right now.” Bingley jumped to his feet, but instead of moving to hit Darcy, he …

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A Taxing Subject for Americans—and for Austen and her Peers

Welcome to All Things Austen in April! We are pleased to welcome a guest today to our celebration of All Things Austen in April. Joining us is Collins Hemingway, the author of the trilogy “The Marriage of Miss Jane Austen,” which reimagines seven “missing” years in her life to create a relationship with a man very much …

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March Madness

Spring is in the air, and it’s time to break out of the winter doldrums. With that in mind, a few weeks ago we asked our amazing readers on Facebook for crossover ideas and received so many clever and funny suggestions. Thank you to all of you who shared your thoughts.  In case you’re not …

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Caroline Bingley Contemplates the Worst Day of Her Life

To commemorate our second anniversary, we invite you, our loyal readers and friends, to join us this month at Austen Variations. We have grand plans! For February, we intend to share the endearing moments of Jane Austen’s beloved characters as they celebrate their own anniversaries.     When we asked our readers for suggestions about …

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Jane Bennet In January – What If Jane Spoke Her Mind?

  What better way to start the year that to focus on one of Jane Austen’s most beloved characters? Join Austen Variations as we spend January looking into the lovely Jane Bennet.   I have often wondered what Jane and Mr. Bingley talked about when they were alone. Austen gives us so few clues. Also, …

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