P&P: Behind the Scenes – Mr. Collins Applies to Sir William for Charlotte’s Hand

    In chapter 22 we’re told that, the morning after a dinner at Lucas Lodge, Mr. Collins slyly slips away from Longbourn with the covert aim of proposing marriage to Charlotte Lucas. This is exactly what Charlotte has been hoping for, and, perceiving him from an upper window, she instantly sets out “to meet …

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Launching ‘A Spot of Sweet Tea’!

So excited to announce the launch of ‘A Spot of Sweet Tea: Hopes and Beginnings’, a collection of sweet, Austen inspired short stories. Here’s a bit about the collection: Sweet, Austen-inspired treats, perfect with a cup of tea. Full of hope and ripe with possibility, beginnings and new beginnings refresh the spirit with optimism and anticipation. Four …

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P&P: Behind the Scenes – Darcy Anticipates Trip to Rosings

As Darcy spends time in London, he attempts to put one woman and her “fine eyes” out of his mind. Will a letter and his annual trip to Rosings be just what he needs?   Monday, 9 March 1812 A knock at the door roused Darcy from the ledgers before him. “Enter,” he called. The …

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The Joy of Book Clubs

On Friday night, I had the great pleasure of visiting a suburban Chicago book club to discuss TAKE A CHANCE ON ME and THE ONE THAT I WANT, the first two stories in my new Mirabelle Harbor series. It was a blast!! I knew going in that it would be, though, since I’d been invited to join …

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P&P: Behind the Scenes – Lydia Goes to Brighton

    Lydia received an invitation from Mrs. Forster,the wife of the Colonel of the regiment, to accompany her to Brighton. This invaluable friend was a young woman, and very lately married.  Spring, 1812.  Early on a bright morning in late May, a gay party left Meryton: the  girls, Lydia and Mrs. Forster, with the …

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Jane Austen at Epcombs: In search of Longbourn

I didn’t intend to go hunting for Longbourn, but I like to have a mental image of a setting when I write. So when I started on Alone with Mr. Darcy, I wanted to find a picture of the road to Longbourn Darcy and Elizabeth would be walking along. Of course, it had to be the real road, so …

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P&P: Behind the Scenes – Bingley rides to London

  Chapter 1: Charles Bingley has found the most wonderful estate to rent in Hertfordshire and is eager to tell his sisters about it! October 9, 1811 By the time he reached London his horse was lathered and faltering, but his enthusiasm was unimpaired. He could hardly wait to reach the Hursts’ townhouse to tell his …

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Pirates and Prejudice Audiobook!

Did you know what this Saturday, September 19 is?  Arrrh! I know ’tis a few days early, but this’ll give ye a few days to practice some! In honor of dat upcomin’ day, an’ in celebration of me novel, Pirates and Prejudice bein’ made into an audio book, I am offerin’ 5 promotional codes ‘ere dat can …

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P&P: Behind the Scenes – Darcy Reflects on Elizabeth

Darcy is at Pemberley getting ready to depart for London and then Rosings. Will he ever be able to put Elizabeth out of his mind and heart? Spring, 1812, a few weeks before Darcy sets out for Rosings Darcy looked out at the grounds from the window of his room at Pemberley. The countryside, which …

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If you give a gal a photo…she must launch a store!

Maria Grace

 It has been such an eventful month I hardly know where to begin! So many fresh and new things happening! A dear friend, who just happens to be a fantastic profession photographer (check out his work here) made me look really good in some new author photos. I love the new photos and I’m even …

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