Romancing History

Research: Original Letters and Images

2012-02-13T04:08:00.000-08:00

While researching additional material about the 19th Century Regency period for Dangerous Deceit, I went straight to the lovely book I have, My Dear Cassandra, which contains most of the surviving letters from Jane Austen to her sister Cassandra. The letters are all written between 1796 and Jane's death in 1817 and contain a wealth of information about their lives at that time. Another great advantage of the book is the wonderful illustrations and paintings depicting the fashion, transport, people and places. Apart from being an absolute joy to read, it provides first-hand experience of that period.

The other lovely book I was lucky enough to pick up in a second hand bookshop is Mrs Hurst Dancing & Other Scenes from Regency Life 1812-1823. This is an even more highly visual book, full of superb illustrations by a young girl, Diana Sperling, painting scenes of her everyday life between those two dates. The delightful watercolour prints tell a wonderful story of her friends and family and the simple pleasures they enjoyed in the country.

Nothing can beat the joy of reading about historical people in their own words and seeing their surroundings from original illustrations. I'm looking forward to discovering more original material when next in an antique shop or second hand bookshop!

Romy

Wicked Lord Byron

2012-02-03T10:05:00.000-08:00

Delighted to see that my article on Lord Byron is on the History Undressed Blog! I've long been fascinated by the man who was bad, mad and dangerous to know, and have written about him before. I even gave him a walk-on part in Dangerous Deceit.

Romy

Research: Replica Newspapers

2012-01-30T06:23:00.000-08:00

The previous post on research was about using original newspapers and magazines for authentic details on a particular period, when published features and advertisements give a flavour of everyday life and what was happening in a local or national context.

The other option is to look out for replica newspapers - modern facsimile copies of original publications. These are sometimes given as a free supplement in a newspaper, or may be on sale for specific anniversaries. Our local newspaper had wonderful supplements showing copies of original photos and articles about the Blitz. Watch out for special replicas at historic and heritage centres, or museums. Sometimes a supplement will be specially repoduced to commemorate an anniversary or event. I have a very informative Commemorative Souvenir newspaper about Agatha Christie, The Agatha Bygones, which I bought on a holiday to Torquay in 1990, at the Centenary Exhibition in the Museum.

The photograph above shows two of my other finds. The Old Town Reporter was a tourist souvenir from Edinburgh and contains four broadsheet sides full of articles from the Royal Mile over several periods of history. The Bonnie Prince Charlie article, with photo, is from September 17th 1745, while beneath that is a small piece from January 1872 about the death of Greyfriars Bobby. On the back page, an article from 10th March 1556 highlights the mysterious murder of Queen Mary's secretary, Davd Rizzio. It's fun and informative.

The other newspaper is a Souvenir Reprint of the 1996 Anniversary Issue of the Hastings Observer, which I bought on a family holiday to that area. It's a fun replica of what the newspaper headline and articles might have looked like after the Battle of Hastings in 1066, had the newspaper been around then! It's a much easier way to read about all the main action and historical people than reading boring history books, as the information is delivered in bite-size pieces. The back page shows the fateful events month by month from January to October and is headed: 1066 - The Year of the Comet. A comet did indeed blaze across the sky causing many to think it a bad omen for King Harold.

So next time you're browsing at a heritage site or museum, ask if they have any replica newspapers.

Romy

Burns the Exciseman

2012-01-25T01:55:00.000-08:00

Today is Burns' Day, when our National Bard's birthday will be celebrated all over Scotland, and in some other parts of the world, with a Burns' Supper. Besides the haggis, neeps and tatties meal, the haggis is usually marched in to the sound of bagpipes, and most of the men wear the kilt.

Robert Burns is world famous as a farmer and poet of the people, yet a large part of his adventurous life was spent as a very respectable government Exciseman, or ‘rascally gager’, as Burns himself called them. Here's a little bit about his life as a gager.

When the crops failed on his farm, Ellisland, in Dumfriesshire before his 29^th birthday, Burns became disillusioned with farming and looked for another source of income. Having little experience of other types of work, apart from a short time as a Flax Dresser, he contacted some influential friends in the hope of gaining their patronage in his change of career. One such man was the Earl of Glencairn, to whom Burns wrote a hopeful, pleading letter in the January of 1788, outlining his desire to be an Exciseman.

Burns was subsequently added to the roll of Excisemen in September 1789. It was a hard and often dangerous job. Covering ten parishes in his first area, Burns rode extensively, writing that he was “condemned to gallop at least 200 miles every week.” From his letters recorded in the Life and Works of Burns by James Currie, Burns later complained: “My fingers are so worn to the bone in holding the noses of his Majesty’s liege subjects to the grindstone of Excise that I am totally unfit for wielding a pen in any generous subject.”

The danger was real in a period when smuggling was rife, with huge profits on items such as beer, cider, brandy, tea and coffee, and Excisemen were sometimes beaten or killed. They made surprise visits to traders to check books for accurate accounts and to make sure the correct tax was applied on whisky. It certainly wasn't one of the most popular jobs.

While Burns carried out the day job, he continued writing his poems. The fact he was an Exciseman himself did not prevent him writing the song, The Deil’s Awa wi’ the Exciseman’. This illustrates Burns’ empathy with the people in their wish to be rid of these government men, so they could continue drinking their purloined goods.

Robert Burns remained at his station working from Mill Street until his death on 21^st July 1796, still a serving officer of the Excise.

Romy

Research: Original Newspapers and Magazines

2012-01-22T07:05:00.000-08:00

One of the most interesting and often exciting ways to research historical detail is to look for original old newspapers and magazines, many of which are found in antique shops. Apart from reading about history in the month or year it's actually happening, the advertisements are invaluable for showing people, clothes and the kinds of items they bought or used. The following photo shows three of the original publications I managed to find here in Britain.

The oldest is a rather tattered copy of the Weekly Illustrated from Saturday, June 20th, 1936. I was fortunate that this edition happens to be the Kings Birthday Number - celebrating the 42nd birthday of King Edward VIII on June 23rd, 1936. It's a fabulous edition, rich in photographs and adverts. The back page has great photos of 'England's Hope' for Wimbledon that year: two women tennis players.

The next in age is a copy of the famous satirical magazine, Punch, from March 17th, 1954. Again, it is full of wonderful advertisements (very full!), from cookery and home, to luggage and men's hats and shoes, with everything in between. Then there are the quirky articles and cartoons about world affairs and items in the news.

The other magazine is a copy of Country Life from October 4th, 1956. As the title suggests, this is full of detail about country life and the gloriously expensive properties for sale. Wonderful illustrations and photos accompany every article and, once again, advertisements for all the latest clothes and essential items. There are some lovely articles about plants, birds, famous landmarks, and fabulous lingerie and women's country fashions.

These three items alone provide hours of fascinating historical detail. So next time you're visiting an antique shop or antique fayre, seek out the old magazines as some of them might even suggest a new story idea. next time I'll talk about replica newspapers.

Romy

Primary Sources for Historical Research

2012-01-16T02:48:00.000-08:00

Research is quite an overwhelming concept for some historical writers if covering a period with huge amounts of information. How can we possibly hope to know enough before starting the novel? One piece of advice I’ll offer is to choose a background period with which you’re already familiar. Then start writing the story and fill in the gaps in historical background as and when needed. This avoids spending too much time researching before getting started writing, and also avoids using every bit of information you can find!

We all bring our own cultural influences and knowledge to the past and can never fully understand what it was like to live then. So the next best option is to read about it from a historical person. One of the best kinds of research is Primary Sources, material written around the time of your novel, if not too far back in history. Good sources include books (fiction and non-fiction), diaries, newspapers, maps, paintings, drawings, guides and letters.

Next time, I’ll look at one of these examples in more detail.

Romy

Research and Profiles

2012-01-11T05:46:00.000-08:00

I'm really pleased to be profiled on writer and editor Penny Ehrenkranz's blog today, talking about my debut historical novel, Dangerous Deceit, and about writing in general. I'd love you to come and leave a comment if you have time! It's always great to be on a blog in a different country and maybe meet new readers.

I'm hoping to talk about research over the next few weeks on this Romancing History blog, especially about using primary resources. I'll introduce you to a few of the original magazines and items I've used in writing historical fiction. Watch this space!

Romy

Another Year

2012-01-02T02:53:00.000-08:00

Another year, another opportunity to achieve those illusive dreams. I love the anticipation of each new year, with all that it will bring. May you reach your goals and enjoy all that comes your way in 2012.

This is the quote on the header of my reading and writing blog - inspiration!

'Whatever you can do
Or dream you can do
Begin it.
Boldness has genius,
Power and magic in it.'
Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

Have a wonderful year!
Romy

For Auld Lang Syne

2011-12-31T05:14:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a great Hogmanay from Scotland, where some people will be dancing at celidhs up and down the country, to the toe-tapping sound of fiddles and accordians. And, yes, young men still wear the kilt at such occasions!

Have a very happy, healthy and prosperous 2012. Raising a toast for Auld Lang Syne, written as a poem by our national bard, Robert Burns, in 1788, and sung all over the world as we enter the New Year.

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And auld lang syne!

For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne.
We'll tak a cup o' kindness yet,
For auld lang syne.

Happy New Year!
Romy

Victorian Christmas

2011-12-22T06:29:00.000-08:00

We really owe so much of what we now regard as Christmas festivities to the Victorians. After the Puritans banned Christmas celebrations in the early 17th century, it wasn't until Victoria was on the throne, from 1837 to 1901, that they were revived in abundance. In fact the Victorians went a step further and added even more festive emblems! Besides many of our well-known carols, the Christmas pudding and the traditions partly introduced by Charles Dickens in his little novel, A Christmas Carol, here are a few more Victorian innovations.

Christmas Cards: It's hard to imagine that the sending of Christmas cards only began with the Victorians. The first commercial card is attributed to Henry Cole, director of the Victoria and Albert Museum, who commissioned a card which eventually went on sale in London in 1846.
Christmas Crackers: Invented by a pastry cook, Thomas Smith, the cracker was inspired by the French bonbons wrapped in twists of coloured paper that he saw in Paris. Smith gradually added riddles, mottoes and in 1860, he added the explosive bang!
Chistmas Trees: The Christmas tree was not a new concept in Victorian times, having been introduced to royal festivities by George III's wife, Queen Charlotte. But Prince Albert brought many German traditions to Britain when he married Victoria, including the decorated indoor tree, a tradition that soon spread right across Britain.

I'm sure there are many more traditions for which we should thank the Victorians!
Romy

A Short History of Dolls

2011-12-13T03:57:00.000-08:00

Most little girls hope to receive a doll for Christmas at least once in their lives. These days, they are increasingly human-like and could, in some extreme cases, be taken for a real baby. In fact, they were originally known as toy babies, and the word doll was used as a diminutive form of the name Dorothy. Although dolls have been around for centuries, many of them seemed more like ornaments than cuddly toys, with fancy dresses and lifeless eyes. I thought it might be fun to look at some of the dolls through history.

At first, dolls were often modelled on adults, with fancy wigs, glass eyes, and eyelashes made from human hair and were initially made from wood, clay, wax, or even ivory. During the 15^th century, Germany was one of the most famous countries for toys, and dolls started to become quite popular as playthings. Usually made of wood, some even had moveable limbs. In 17^th century Germany, the most popular dolls had wax heads attached to wooden or cloth bodies. During this period, many dolls were dressed in elaborate copies of the day’s fashion.

By permission of Deutsche Fotothek

China-ware, or porcelain, arrived in Europe from Portuguese ships in the 16^th century, bringing a new medium for making dolls. The first real western porcelain was made at Meissen, near Dresden in Germany, in 1710, although Standard English porcelain, bone china, was made in the 1750s by adding bone ash to the soft paste. From the 19^th century, porcelain was increasingly used in making many of the dolls. By 1850, the first wax dolls to be fashioned in the image of an infant were made in England. Unglazed porcelain, known as bisque was used for a great variety of dolls’ heads from the late 19^th century to the 1930s, mainly in France and Germany.

Even today, some of the highest priced, and most sought after toys, are German bisque character dolls from the early 1900s, produced by Kammer and Reinhardt of Watterhausen. Using a very advanced design, their baby and toddler dolls were modeled on real children, with varying facial expressions. Bisque made dolls tended to look more realistic than glazed china porcelain.

It’s no wonder that dolls are often the subject of creepy films and stories, and I’m not overly surprised that my own daughter (who is now an imaginative writer), was never very fond of dolls as a child. Sometimes, they look a bit too realistic!

Romy

Advent

2011-12-05T04:57:00.000-08:00

Since we're now into December, I thought this little poem from a 17th century writer, T. Durfey (or D'Urfey), might start getting us into the Christmas spirit, if not already there!

The Praise of Christmas

When Christmas's tide comes in like a bride,
With holly and ivy clad,
Twelve Days in the year much mirth and good cheer
In every household is had.
The country guise is then to devise
Some gambols of Christmas play,
Whereat the young men do best that they can
To drive the cold winter away.

Romy

Author Chat and Free Books

2011-12-01T06:34:00.000-08:00

I'm taking part in an all-day chat over at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bethwylde/ today with my fellow Champagne Books authors. Lots of us are running small contests to win a copy of our books. I'm offering a free download of Dangerous Deceit to one random winner of the answer to the following question on Beth Wylde's Yahoo forum: which Jane Austen character am I? The answer is easily seen on this Romancing History blog and you can even take the quiz to find out which character you are!

Romy

Liebster Award

2011-11-26T06:14:00.000-08:00

I was delighted to receive this cute Liebster Award from supportive online writing friend, Melanie Robertson-King, for blogs with fewer than 200 followers. Liebster is German for dearest and I love the way we encourage and support each other in this competitive world of writing.

I also received the award from another lovely online friend on my reading and writing blog, so I've passed on the award to five other writers there, most of whom are quite new to blogging.

Romy

Writing in Victorian Times

2011-11-21T02:03:00.000-08:00

Like many writers, I adore pens and pencils and stationery of all kinds. Even though most writing is now done on the computer by typing on keys, nothing beats the pleasure of a new notebook and all the pristine pages awaiting the point of a pen.

Throughout history, most writing implements were fashioned from whatever material was available, such as reeds and feathers. Quill pens, made of sharpened goose feathers, were used in Europe by the 13^th century. Although metal pens were made from the late 16^th century, they were mostly ornamental and rare.

In 1803, Bryan Donkin developed a steel nib which wasn’t very successful, as the ink corroded the steel and it was less flexible than a quill. The English inventor Joseph Gillot eventually cut three slits into the nib to make it more flexible, making steel nibs commercially available by the 1830s.

Quills and steel nib pens were slow to use, as they had to be dipped in ink every few seconds. In 1832, John Joseph Parker developed a way of producing a pen with its own reservoir of ink. Fountain pens didn’t catch on until 1884, however, when the American inventor Lewis Waterman developed the first practical version using non-corrosive ink.

The ink used for quills and steel nib pens was contained in a bottle, until portable inkwells appeared in the 19^th century. The writer then pressed a blotter over the wet ink to prevent smudges on the paper. Rolling blotters were popular during the 19^th century. Letters were then folded up and sealed with wax.

Children at Victorian schools used a slate pencil, or sometimes a piece of chalk, to write on a slate. When they finished, they wiped the slate clean with a rag cloth. Older children copied letters on to paper with a nib pen which they dipped in ink. The ink was kept in a large bottle and dispensed into individual inkwells on the desks. You can still see these in very old schools.

Surprisingly, the first typewriter was invented as early as 1829, by American William Austin Burt, and was made of wood. By 1866, Christopher Latham Sholes and Carlos Glidden produced a workable typewriter using the QWERTY keyboard. Seven years later, Sholes signed a contract with E. Remington and Sons, who made the first mass-produced typewriters in 1873, which they renamed the Remington 1. Although Thomas Edison invented the first electric typewriter in 1872, it was not actually sold until 1902.

We’ve come a long way since quills, but I’m so glad that pen and paper have survived to be used as an alternative to all the fast-changing technology!

Romy

Blogging about Romancing History

2011-11-18T06:31:00.000-08:00

Today, I'm delighted to be featured as the Friday Friend on the lovely Heroines with Hearts blog, where I'm discussing historical romance and how we can romance history in our writing.

Love to see you!

Romy

Garrow's Law and the Old Bailey

2011-11-14T03:09:00.000-08:00

Last night saw the return of the Georgian drama, 'Garrow's Law', to our television screens. This is an excellent BBC drama about the Georgian justice system, inspired by the pioneering 18th century barrister, William Garrow. Mainly set in the courtroom of the period, it is largely based on real trials from the Old Bailey, when the young Garrow made history by defending often innocent and poor people.

Since it's a drama, it also has wonderful characters in Garrow himself, the love of his life and married mistress, Lady Sarah, her dastardly husband, Sir Arthur Hill, and Garrow's friend and colleague, Southouse. Garrow and Lady Sarah caused a scandal by eventually living openly together, even though her husband always had at least one mistress and illegitimate child of his own.

There is no doubt the justice system needed shaking up in the 18th century and Garrow is credited with introducing the legal practise: 'Innocent until proven guilty', a new concept at the time, when the most minor crime was punished by hanging. The series also illustrates the plight of women, when even a Lady like Sarah has no rights of her own.

Wonderful drama for any historical novelist! The Old Bailey now has cases available for research online, from 1674 to 1913.

Romy

Remembrance Day

2011-11-11T05:43:00.000-08:00

11am on the 11th day of the 11th month, in memory of all those who have lost loved ones throughout all conflicts since the original Armistice day to mark the end of World War 1 in 1918, when all the guns finally fell silent along the Western Front.

Guy Fawkes Night

2011-11-04T10:52:00.000-07:00

'Remember, remember, the 5th of November' - that's the rhyme I grew up with here in the UK, as we celebrated bonfire night each year. It's also known as Guy Fawkes Night, after the intrepid man, who along with several co-conspirators, tried to blow up James 1 and the Houses of Parliament in 1605. Fawkes was actually caught in the act in the cellar beneath the building, hence his everlasting fame.

Needless to say, the plot failed and all of them were executed. To mark the infamous event, we still celebrate Guy Fawkes night all over Scotland with huge bonfires and fireworks. Many of them are now official displays organised by local councils as that's generally a safer option. But we had great fun as children, when our father set off the fireworks in the back garden. In later years, neigbours and friends often got together to make it a bigger event for all the children. Any large piece of waste ground made a good base for the bonfire.

One of the traditions weeks before the event was when some of the children made a makeshift 'guy' and wheeled it around on a barrow asking for a "penny for the guy". Adults knew this money would go towards the fireworks bought for the big night. The 'guy' itself was then put on top of the bonfire. Food played an important part in the evening's enjoyment. Since November is usually cold, everyone wrapped up in warm hats, scarves and gloves and looked forward to hot food like potatoes, sausages and soup while watching the fireworks. Now, I'll have to find out where the nearest bonfire event is taking place tomorrow evening!

Romy

Bonfire Week on Lindsay's Romantics

2011-11-01T04:39:00.000-07:00

I have an excerpt from Dangerous Deceit on Lindsay's Romantics blog today - she is celebrating the mischief of bonfire week and my excerpt is 'Mischief in Vauxhall Gardens'.

Better get on with NaNoWriMo and edits on the tween novel!

Romy

Halloween and Samhain

2011-10-31T02:34:00.000-07:00

I posted a blog entry about my typical childhood Scottish Halloween on The Writers Vineyard the other day and it brought back so many lovely memories of dressing up to go out on 'goloshans' as we called it.

But the traditions go even further back in time to the old eve of the Celtic New Year, Samhain. One of the creepiest aspects of this festival is that the souls of the dead can make a bid for freedom to return to the living on this one night of the year. I was so inspired by this that I wrote a suitably dark short story around the idea.

In Scotland, bonfires were lit on hillsides, sometimes to aid the journey of the returning spirits, sometimes to protect homes from such an occurrence. And of course, it was a night when all kinds of mischievous spirits and witches roamed the land before All Saints' Day on November 1st. So keep a look out tonight - you never know who or what might be tapping on your door!

Romy

Lavender Dreams

2011-10-25T08:55:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to bring attention to this new anthology from MuseItUp Publishing, Lavender Dreams. It contains ten stories (one of them mine) and all royalties are going to support cancer research. I've written a post about it on my reading and writing blog with further details.

Romy

Link to Fascinating Post on Women's Corsets

2011-10-21T05:39:00.000-07:00

I've just been reading a very interesting post about Corsets, Whalebones and Waist-whittlers on multi-published author Freda Lightfoot's blog and thought I'd provide a link to it, since it's a subject that interests most historical novelists. It's a fascinating insight into these often highly uncomfortable aids to a particular female shape through the different centuries.

Enjoy,
Romy

Dunfermline Abbey and Robert the Bruce

2011-10-17T04:45:00.000-07:00

Dunfermline Abbey in Fife is the burial place of many Scottish kings and queens and it’s still an impressive sight today. The name of King Robert the Bruce is carved in stone on the four sides of the tall, square tower. Originally, Queen Margaret founded a Benedictine Abbey on the site in the 11^th century but all that remains are foundations under the nave of what is now called the ‘Old Church’, built in the 12^th century. Adjoining the original church is the 19^th century Abbey Church which is still used for services today.

Little remains inside the old church apart from its massive pillars, beautiful stained-glass windows and the ‘Old Nave’, although there is some fine carving around the outside of the south door. Of the five pillars on the left and six on the right, one pillar on each side has an interesting chevron pattern. A gallery runs the whole length of the building to either side. One of the stained-glass windows depicts the Coat of Arms of the mother of King James I of Scotland, Queen Anabella Drummond, consort of Robert III. Only a fragment of the great rood, or cross, has survived at the eastern end of the nave, before the entrance to the more modern church.

There is quite a contrast between the old church and new, especially with the light and brightness of the interior. The New Church has many features of historic interest, as well as stunning stained-glass windows, such as the McLaren Window of 1904 above the richly carved pulpit and lectern. The lower half of this window depicts the Last Supper.

The tomb of King Robert the Bruce is situated directly beneath the pulpit inside the church. Originally buried in Dunfermline Abbey in 1329, the exact spot was unknown for centuries. In 1818, workmen discovered the vault containing the King’s remains. This was verified when official inspection showed that the breastbone was severed to allow the heart to be taken to the holy land according to the Bruce’s wishes.

The remains were ceremoniously re-interred between the transepts and the magnificent medieval-type brass embedded in marble was made in 1889 to cover the tomb. The translated Latin inscription reads: “The tomb of Robert the Bruce, King of Scots, fortunately discovered among the ruins in 1818, has been anew marked by this brass in the 560^th year after his death.” A new memorial stained glass window was installed in 1974.

Romy

Fictionalising History

2011-10-13T01:54:00.000-07:00

One of my earliest reading delights was learning about different periods of history through novels - so much more interesting and digestible than history lessons. All through my teenage years, I devoured the novels of Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte and Charles Dickens, who wrote during their actual eras, and Georgette Heyer, Victoria Holt, Jean Plaidy and H Rider Haggard, who placed the reader so convincingly in different times. Then I moved on to the medieval murders of Ellis Peters and was hooked on that period.

It is little surprise that my own first novel, Dangerous Deceit, is a historical set in the Regency period, and I also write occasional historical short stories. Good historical fiction still transports me to other times and it must be the ultimate escapism in a novel! So I am delighted that a fellow Champagne Books author, Jude Johnson, is in the Author Spotlight over on my reading and writing blog today. Jude's novel, Dragon & Hawk, is a fascinating journey back to late 19th century Arizona and is full of rich historical detail. Well worth a read!

Romy

A Regency Lady's Style

2011-10-04T08:29:00.000-07:00

Well, after my first live book launch and reading of Dangerous Deceit last night, where I tried to dress in something resembling Regency evening fashion, I thought I'd better mention the real fashion style here! You can read about the launch on my reading and writing blog.

Anyone who has watched a Jane Austen drama or film will know that ladies wore empire line dresses in the Regency period of 1811 to 1820, both for day and evening. Evening dresses were caught under the low-cut bust line, then flowed in a straight column to the floor. Sleeves were often short and puffed slightly, and ladies wore long gloves. Hair adornments varied from ribbons and pearls to turbans with feathers.

Accessories normally included a light shawl, a fan and a reticule, while parasols were used during the day. During this period, ladies often dispensed with any kind of corset, preferring to wear a camisole to protect the light material from perspiration and to avoid the dress being too transparent, unless that was the naughty aim! The idea was to emulate the flowing classical lines of ancient Greek and Roman times.

It was such an elegant age that next time, I decide to dress up, I think I'll need to hire or make a more authentic costume!

Romy

Victorian Scottish Prison: Inveraray Jail

2011-09-26T03:51:00.000-07:00

Prison life in nineteenth century Scotland was very different from today, and spending a day in Inveraray Jail recreates the experience in an almost too realistic way.

Comprising the Courtroom, Old Prison, New Prison and Airing Yards, the old Inveraray Jail was completely restored and reopened to the public in May 1989; almost 100 years after the last prisoner left its confines. A visit ‘inside’ gives a real sense of the conditions experienced by those nineteenth century men, women and children unlucky enough to have been detained within its cells.

Entrance to the Jail is through the imposing and spacious Courthouse built between 1816 and 1820. This was used for three different types of sittings: the Circuit Court, Sheriff Court and Burgh Court, as well as for meetings. It is a disquieting experience today, walking into what appears to be the middle of a trial. The Courtroom is set out for a Circuit Court Session of around 1850. A fifteen-man jury sits to one side, witnesses on the other, while the lawyers sit below the judge. The accused sit in the dock facing the lawyers and judge.

At the beginning of the trial, the members of the jury were called one by one by the Clerk of the Court to stand in the jury box while the following oath was administered: “You fifteen swear by Almighty God and as you will answer to God on the Great Day of Judgement, that you will truth say and no truth conceal, so far as you are to pass at this assize.”

The exit from the courtroom leads to the restored Old Prison, completed in 1820. This was the main county jail for the whole of Argyll. Comprising eight small cells, this prison held men, women, children, sane and insane often crowded together. In the earliest years, there was little ventilation or heating, no hope of exercise or occupation, and no washroom or water closet. Petty criminals might share space with murderers, the convicted with the yet to be convicted.

Although these conditions lasted for over ten years in Inveraray and elsewhere in Scotland, prison reformers finally made a difference. The Prisons Act of 1835 and the Prisons Scotland Act of 1839 led to the more humane care of prisoners and proper training for prison staff. Cells had to be bigger, with daylight, ventilation and heat, while prisoners were to be clothed, fed and exercised.

The New Prison, finally completed in 1848, was a model prison of its time. As opposed to the eight cells in the overcrowded Old Prison, the new one had twelve individual cells, a water closet on each floor, washroom, accommodation for warders and an exercise gallery. Lit by gas, it also had adequate heating and ventilation

It’s a slightly creepy experience visiting the old jail today, but it provides a wonderful record of the conditions, the work prisoners eventually did to occupy their time, the life of a Prison Governor and his wife, and the role of the residential Warder. But I did breathe a sigh of relief to escape back to the 21^st century!

Romantic 'Steamship Sir Walter Scott'

2011-09-19T02:18:00.000-07:00

Steamship Sir Walter Scott

One of my favourite beauty spots in the west of Scotland is Loch Katrine, situated in Scotland’s first National Park, near Callander and Aberfoyle. The loch was mentioned by the famous Scottish writer, Sir Walter Scott, in his ‘Lady of the Lake’ poem of 1810. And visitors can sail on that loch today, on the steamship of his name.

The Sir Walter Scott steamship has been sailing on Loch Katrine for over 100 years and still offers visitors a gentle cruise along the tranquil water. There is no more peaceful way to enjoy the scenery, with the backdrop of green hills typical of this lovely part of Scotland. Sir Walter Scott described the loch in his poem as: “The summer dawns, reflected hue, the purple changed Loch Katrine blue.” It is exactly the same view today, as the steamship begins its sails from the wooden Trossachs Pier at the foot of the loch.

The Trossachs

Loch Katrine’s name means ‘a highland robber’, from the Gaelic Cateran, and it is right in the heart of Clan MacGregor country. The most famous member of the clan was Rob Roy MacGregor whose birthplace, Glengyle, is at the head of the loch. He was immortalised in print and film as a kind of highland hero. Rob Roy was born near the end of the Scottish Clan system and opposed the titled, powerful land owners and law makers who finally dismantled the old ways.

The little steamship was built by Wm Denny and Bros Ltd at Dumbarton on the River Clyde, and was launched in 1899. It is the last screw-driven steamship still in service on Scottish inland waters. Usually there is a crew of five onboard: the captain, mate, engineer, stoker and deckhand, and the ship is licensed to carry 320 passengers.

The steamship still retains the original steam engine which runs on smokeless fuel. This is necessary to maintain the purity of the water in the loch. There would be too much danger of oil spillage if it were ever converted to diesel, which would be an unthinkable risk to the loch which ultimately supplies water to Glasgow. It has been the source of the water supply for the city since 1859. It is still fed by the crystal clear mountain streams as it was in Victorian times when the steamer first sailed.

Boarding the Steamship

Loch Katrine is almost ten miles long and just over one mile wide and the steamship sails as far as Stronachlachar. The scenery is beautiful, with majestic mountains and small islands, woodland and wildlife. In addition to the steamship, visitors can walk or cycle along the path by the loch, or climb to the top of Ben A’an to watch the Sir Walter Scott chug its way along the peaceful loch just as it did in Victorian days.

Romy

Review of Dangerous Deceit

2011-09-10T01:59:00.000-07:00

I was so delighted yesterday to see the wonderful review of Dangerous Deceit on Australian writer Diane Fordham's blog. I've had great reviews and comments on Amazon and other places, but this was such an unsolicited suprise that it made my day! Even after a first novel is published, we sometimes need that boost to our confidence - that readers actually enjoy the book (at least I need that!). So thank you, Diane.

Romy

Women's Fashion of the 1900s

2011-09-05T02:03:00.000-07:00

I write occasional articles on all kinds of subjects for various places, and the following information on women’s clothes in the 1900s is adapted from one of my pieces.

The Changing Shape

Queen Victoria’s long reign came to an end with her death in 1901, which led into the Edwardian era, or la belle époque as it was known in France. Women’s fashion underwent some changes from this period. A new type of health corset arrived at the beginning of the 1900s, which was designed to force the bust forward and the hips back. This produced the famous S-shape of large bust, a tiny waist and a larger behind, or derrière (see above photo). The fabric of women’s clothes became a little looser and more graceful, although tailor-made suits, with a longer jacket and straighter skirt, were quite popular on both sides of the Atlantic. Lace blouses were often worn with a plain skirt during the day.

It was an elegant period for females. A woman’s hair was generally full and soft, often dressed in elaborate styles on top of the head in delicate waves. Hats became much larger and more elaborately trimmed, making the head top heavy. This extravagant style of clothes and hair was known as the Gibson Girl look. For the evening, plumes and bandeaux with feathers and jewels was popular, while added veils made an appearance for driving in the new motor cars.

Hats and Lace

The Edwardian lady was ultra-feminine right to her underwear. Fine silk, lace and quality fabrics took over from cotton underclothes. Lingerie was more daring with plenty of petticoats, which often flounced around the ankle to show a tiny bit of leg. Less well-off women tried to copy the expensive styles by embroidering or sewing ribbons and bows onto their cheaper fabrics. Camisoles became even prettier, with frills and lace.

The Correct Corset

Fans were still very popular into the 1900s. To suit the excessively coiffured and gorgeously dressed ladies, the fans were often large and decorative, made of silk or feathers for evening. By contrast, jewellery was fine and delicate, the favorite choice being pearls, especially with rows of pearls in a choker style. Silver jewellery was set with precious stones such as amethysts and garnets. Evening bags were just as elaborate as the gowns, and women always wore long gloves to cover the arms. Buttoned boots were popular footwear during the day.

Make-up is another fascinating subject in women’s fashion, but I’ll leave that for another day! I have several costume books at home, but one of my favourite research books is Decades of Beauty by Kate Mulvey and Melissa Richards. It’s a mine of information and has such beautiful photographs which show an even clearer record of women’s fashion. The above photos are courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

Romy

Regency Carriages

2011-08-23T08:51:00.000-07:00

Horse drawn carriages were most popular from the late 18^th century until the invention of the motor car in the early 20^th century. They came in a variety of shapes and sizes, from the public stage coach to the most elegant private vehicles. The original carriages of the 17^th century were basic vehicles without springs.

By the Regency era, more comfortable horse drawn carriages were in use. Some were a luxury only the wealthy could afford; others were available for hire complete with the horses. I mentioned the following three carriages in Dangerous Deceit.

The Post-chaise was lighter than the stage-coach and was normally drawn by two or four horses. The carriage had curved springs and leather straps. It was regarded as being superior to travelling by public coach, but only the well-to-do gentry could afford to run this carriage. Post-boys took charge of the horses, with one boy riding each pair of horses.

High-perch barouche

The elegant Barouche was an open, 4-wheeled vehicle, built to a French design. It carried four passengers, with two on either side. It had one small folding hood which protected only the people on that side of the carriage. The barouche was quite an exclusive carriage for wealthy aristocrats, although people often hired them for outings.

Lord Sheldon first meets Lydia when driving his sporty Phaeton. Lighter and faster than a coach, the phaeton was an open, 4-wheeled carriage drawn by one or two horses. It was popular in Regency times with aristocratic travellers who drove this carriage themselves. Young men used it for sport or speed, much like today's expensive sports cars.

Phaeton

These carriages epitomise some of the romance of the Regency and it's no wonder that horse-drawn carriages are often used today for weddings and other special events. The ponies and trap below took my son and his new bride from the church to hotel at their recent wedding, although it was a Victorian design.

Romy

Abbot House, Dunfermline

2011-08-13T13:41:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite Scottish historical buildings is Abbot House in Dunfermline, Fife. Dating from the 15th and 16th centuries, the distinctive salmon-pink facade makes it stand out from a distance, even though it lies in the shadow of Dunfermline Abbey. The oldest house in Dunfermline, Abbot House is now a heritage centre where the displays in the upper rooms provide a step back through thousands of years of Scottish history.

Some of the ground floor barrel-vaulted rooms have iron sculptures of the tools used long ago, such as a baking griddle to denote the kitchen. The doors to the garden have wrought iron figurines of bakers with chef hats. A restored stained glass panel on one wall illustrates a scene from The Ballad of Sir Patrick Spens, an old Scottish song.

Another ground floor room, built around 1660, outside the main 15^th century wall of the house, is named The Fire Room. This probably replaced the original gallery, damaged in the Great Fire of Dunfermline in 1624. The story goes that a young lad fired a musket at pigeons on a thatched roof. It caught fire and destroyed around two thirds of the town’s houses. Abbot House and Dunfermline Abbey survived by being built of stone.

Abbot House is filled with memorabilia of Queen Margaret, wife of King Malcolm III and mother of three subsequent Scottish Kings. One of the most colourful rooms on the first floor is dedicated to Margaret who was canonised in 1249. This room is decorated in medieval style, to portray Dunfermline Abbey as it might have looked before the reformation. There is an example of a chained library, where the precious volumes were protected from robbers by being chained to the shelves. In one corner is the figure of a kneeling monk, John Boiswell, a sacristan who went on to buy Abbot House in 1540, when vacated by the previous Abbot.

Lady Halkett’s Room is furnished as her private study. Formerly Anne Murray, daughter of Charles I’s tutor, Lady Halkett was a Jacobite supporter and left the Court in London to settle in Scotland when she married the widowed Sir James Halkett. The room is thought to be outside the original front wall of the House and was built around 1660 to replace the gallery that once existed at this level. Part of the ceiling has been removed to show some of the tower staircase and wooden guttering with original metal brackets.

There are many more interesting rooms full of Scottish history, and the grounds of Abbot House are also interesting, from the scented gardens with sundial and Spirit of Eternity Fountain, to the wrought-iron gates covered with intricate iron figures. You might even see the resident peacock strutting about showing off his colourful tail for a photo shoot!

Romy

Aphra Behn - Spy, Restoration Playwright and Feminist

2011-08-06T02:22:00.000-07:00

One remarkable woman who fought against the gender-based restrictions of the seventeenth century was the English playwright, Aphra Behn, who loudly complained about the lack of educational opportunities for women. After being married to, and separated from, a merchant of German or Dutch extraction, Behn ended up being a spy for England against Holland in the 1660s.

It was after this period that Behn entered the very competitive area of writing plays for a living. She flouted the prevailing ideology of the time that said women were inferior to men in all respects. Following the restoration of the monarchy with Charles II, professional theatres reopened for the first time since being closed in the early 1640s. One of the most striking differences between the plays in Shakespeare’s times and the Restoration drama was the fact that women were now allowed to be professional actresses and their roles were no longer taken by boys.

Behn produced two successful plays within six months of each other: The Forced Marriage and The Amorous Prince, both romantic tragicomedies. But her third, The Dutch Lover, was criticised. It was still a patriarchal world, and her work was often accused of being full of immorality. Society was scandalised because Behn was a woman, and it was therefore ‘unnatural’ to write in this way. This led to her publishing a defiant feminist manifesto, objecting to the criticism of her plays on the basis of gender. Three years later she was again producing successful plays beginning with the heroic tragedy Abdelazar, followed by a comedy, The Town Fop, in 1676.

It was another six months before The Rover, one of Behn’s most enduring plays, was performed in 1677. But her success led to even more criticism and attacks on her personal life, and she complained again of being victimised simply because she was a woman. Added to that was the charge of using someone else’s work. Behn never denied that the play was loosely adapted from Thomas Killigrew’s Thomaso, or The Wanderer, written in 1654, but claimed she had his permission to rewrite it. Partly dealing with near rape, prostitution and the restrictions imposed on women, the play is set in Naples, which was then part of the Spanish Empire. The Rover focuses on love and marriage from a woman’s point of view.

The Rover recently began to receive the attention it deserves in the canon of English literature, four centuries after it was first performed. Aphra Behn was buried in Westminster Abbey in 1689 and her epitaph reads:

‘Here lies a proof that wit can never be

Defence enough against mortality.’

What a woman!
Romy

A Thirteenth Century Priory

2011-08-01T01:27:00.000-07:00

The other week, we finally made the short boat trip out to Inchmaholm Priory on the only lake in Scotland, the Lake of Menteith (all others are called lochs). For someone interested in history, it has taken me far too many years to get there, but it was worth the wait.

Established in 1238, on the site of a previous church, Inchmahome Priory was a haven of peace and spirituality on the largest of the three islands on the lake, with its community of Augustinians, their parishoners and visitors. But like most of England and Scotland in the 16th century, the Protestant Reformation intervened and this gentle way of life came to an end. The monastic church and cloisters are mostly in ruins, although there is still a sense of how they must have appeared when complete.

Fortunately, the former Chapter House was renovated and used as a mausoleum during the 17th century and it is the only building still intact. At one time, the Chapter House was of great importance as a meeting place for the canons to discuss the business of the priory. They would sit on the stone benches around the sides of the room and listen to readings before getting down to business matters.

Those stone benches still exist and as I sat on one in the perfect silence and felt the cold seep through my trousers, I could imagine those long ago Augustinian brothers in the midst of their business.

After becoming a mausoleum in the 1600s, the Chapter House lay complete and now houses some of the carved stones from the priory. However, it is the striking effigy of Walter Stewart who died in 1295, and his wife, Mary, that immediately grabs the attention, as they lie almost entwined together for all eternity. There is also an effigy of an armed knight and a 14th century gravestone.

One of the most famous visitors to the island was the child, Mary Queen of Scots, who stayed at Inchmahome Priory for three weeks in 1547. The only reminder of her time there is a bower of boxwood trees to commemorate her visit.

This little island is still a unique area of wildlife and tranquility. We visited it during the busy school holidays, yet for all the people there that day, and children's laughing voices as they played amongst the ruins, there was a strange sense of solitide. Wandering through the ruins and sitting on the cold stone bench in the Chapter House, it was almost as though these other modern people hardly existed. Even the young girl who piloted the small boat mentioned the sense of peace on the island.

It was a special day out to this small island, where the relics and ghosts of the past still leave their mark on modern day visitors. I will certainly return at a less buy time of year and soak up the lingering atmosphere of a more spiritual, gentler way of life.

Romy

New Look...

2011-07-29T04:00:00.000-07:00

Well, as you can see, the revamped blog is finally taking shape and beginning to wear its new look. I decided to change the name to 'Romancing History' as I don't want to only focus on the Regency period in future. The photo in the header is my own - Lochranza Castle on the Scottish island of Arran. This kind of sums up the blog: the beauty, romance and story ideas that are to be found in history and historical sites.

I'm looking forward to bringing snippets of history from various decades, and some chat about historical fiction and writers. Hope you can join me on the journey from next week and thanks for staying with me this far!

One little bit of excitement is that Dangerous Deceit is now available in print from Champagne Books! It was so lovely to hold my first novel in my hands at last, much as I love my kindle and e-books. Now trying to organise a 'real' launch in Glasgow around the first week in September. That should be fun.

Romy

Time to Reflect

2011-07-16T06:26:00.000-07:00

As with my readingandwriting blog, I've decided to take some time out from blogging here over the next two weeks. I reckon it's definitely time to step back and reflect, to decide what I want to do with this blog, and think about which direction my writing should be going in. I've become so distracted with all the social networking etc that I can hardly think about writing - and that's never going to get the next book published!

I'll be revamping my blogs and maybe changing the name of this one slightly to reflect a broader canvas. I'd like to start including regular snippets of history, not only around the Regency period, and perhaps a 'recommended reads' section for historicals. A regular Author Spotlight will be on my other blog.

Many thanks to all who already follow this blog. If anyone has any ideas of what they'd like to see on it in future, please feel free to leave a suggestion!

In the meantime, have a good summer and I'll see you here at the end of the month/beginning of August.
Romy

James Watt and Tall Ships

2011-07-09T07:57:00.000-07:00

Tall Ships Races

Today sees the start of a weekend visit of the wonderful Tall Ships Races 2011 to Greenock in the west coast of Scotland (where I was born). Since most the ships are moored in the historic James Watt Dock, I thought this shortened version of my published article about James Watt might be of interest to some. Some more photos of the Tall Ships are over on my reading and writing blog.

Born in Greenock, in January 1736, the young James Watt was mainly taught by his parents, due to ill health, until he eventually went to Grammar School when he was thirteen. He had excellent role models in his grandfather, father and uncle, all of whom were involved in the progression of Greenock as a major shipbuilding area. Watt’s grandfather taught mathematics and navigation in the neighbouring fishing village of Cartsdyke, which eventually became a part of Greenock. His father was apprenticed as a carpenter and shipwright in the 1730s, and subsequently had his own business as a ship owner and merchant.

James Watt eventually repaired the Newcomen Engine model, but was not entirely satisfied that it worked to the best of its ability. And thus began Watt’s own propulsion into history. As he examined the engine and took it to pieces, Watt recognised a fault with it and was sure he knew how to make it much more efficient. Watt went on to devise an engine with a Separate Condenser which increased its efficiency and overcame the problem of heat loss.

Steam Pump

Between 1769 and 1774, Watt improved Greenock’s harbour and designed the first horse-driven pump that could discharge water from the important dry dock in neighbouring Port Glasgow. During this time, he also constructed two dams that would provide a water supply for Greenock. By 1783, James Watt had set the standard of ‘horsepower’.

Watt’s illustrious career came to an end in 1800, when his original patent expired, and he retired. But his invention was to lead the great shipbuilding town of Greenock well into the next century. Since other engineers were now allowed to experiment on Watt’s designs, it led to the building of the Comet, the first seagoing commercial steamboat in Europe, which was built by John Wood of Port Glasgow in 1812.

Romy

Romance and History on Arran

2011-07-05T01:53:00.000-07:00

Lamlash on Arran

We've just returned from our son's wonderful wedding on the romantic island of Arran, a mere hour away by ferry from the west of Scotland mainland. It was a perfect setting, a beautiful wedding and a much needed retreat from everyday life for a few days. I've posted some photos and a fuller description of the day on my reading and writing blog.

Arran is one of those places that gets into the soul and calls you back now and then. We saw a warning to visitors about being careful we didn't catch 'Arranitis' and now I know what it means! Although it's a relatively small island, it is so diverse with its rugged mountains, lush green hills and glens, and a delightful coastline of sandy beaches, quiet coves and interesting birdlife. It is also a haven for yachts and water sports, yet it is nearly always peaceful, allowing visitors to release the cares and concerns of normal life. With its own whisky distillery and the famous 'Arran Gold' (a type of liqueur), fresh dairy ice cream, some of the best cheese in Scotland and definitely some of the most delicious chocolate, most gifts are edible or drinkable!

Lochranza Castle

The island has a long history and there are even standing stones - at Machrie Moor there are six stone circles. One of the most interesting facts I discovered, however, was that the Highland Clearances of the 1700s and 1800s also reached Arran. We were staying at Lamlash, the second biggest village after Brodick. As we walked along near the shore, I noticed a kind of stone memorial arrangement and went to read the plaque. It seems that Arran landowners also recognised the profit in using the land for sheep and many of the tenant families had to move from their settlements. In common with many other displaced Highlanders, many of the Arran people took the chance to travel to a new world in Canada, some settling in Nova Scotia.

Clearance Commemoration

The plaque at Lamlash commemorates the hundreds of Arran Scots who left the island during the clearances between 1829 and 1840. The first '86 souls' left Lamlash on April 25th 1829, on the brig Caledonia and arrived in Quebec City in the June. Over the years, hundreds more left the island and settled in New Brunswick as pioneers in the Restigouche-Bay Chaleur District. The very poignant line at the bottom of the plaque is translated from the gaelic to read: "Yet still the blood is strong, the heart is highland."

On our travels in Canada, we've often remarked about how Scottish some of the areas are and how the people celebrate their Scottishness more than we do sometimes. Now I understand why it is so important, even though many of those Scots had such a positive and lasting influence on their new country. Who would have thought that a romantic weekend celebration on our Scottish island of Arran would lead me to think of our close connections across the Atlantic to Canada. And for a writer, it proves that inspiration and romance is everywhere!

Romy

And the Winner is...

2011-06-27T00:49:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Killarney, the winner of an e-copy of Dangerous Deceit. It will be on its way to you soon, Killarney - once my own computer is fixed.

A big thank you to the three lovely hostesses at Author Roast and Toast for a delightful party, and to the dashing Oliver for food and drink without calories. I do wish I could keep that wonderful Regency costume they dressed me in!

Romy

A Regency Ball on Author Roast and Toast

2011-06-24T01:47:00.000-07:00

You are cordially invited to my virtual Regency Ball on the Author Roast and Toast blog today, Friday 24th June! It begins at 10am (Eastern time).

This is an all-day fun party organised by three delightful hostesses, Sharon, Mary and Lyn, while food and drinks will be served by the handsome Oliver. Please come and join the fun - I'll be available to chat to you off and on all day. Everyone who leaves a comment will be entered into the draw to win an e-copy of my new Regency romantic intrigue novel, Dangerous Deceit. The winner will be announced on Saturday.

Hope to see you there!
Romy

Dancing - Regency Style

2011-06-05T07:06:00.000-07:00

Since I’ve posted about my recent Tap Dancing moment of fame on my reading and writing blog, I thought it would be fun to take a short look at some of the dances that Regency society enjoyed.

The Cotillion became popular towards the end of the 18^th century and was a square dance with four couples. There were two main parts: a simple section known as ‘the change’ and a more complicated manoeuvre called ‘the figure’ – these would alternate with each other.

The Quadrille progressed from the figure sections of the Cotillion, which were joined in a sequence, and the changes were removed. Although they began with four couples, the sets eventually used only two couples. Different types of music was used for this dance, one of the most famous being the Lancers.

Longways country dances were popular from the 18^th century. The dancers formed one long set, but within this they danced in groups of two or three couples – some of these can be seen in the film versions of Jane Austen’s books. They are also progressive, as each couple gradually moves along the set.

The Allemande was a type of skipping step dance for a couple, where the man led and the couple make a few passes, turning in various ways beneath their joined hands.

I’ll talk about the scandalous waltz in another post!

Romy

Blog Tours

2011-06-02T01:46:00.000-07:00

Although I haven't done an official blog tour since my first novel came out, I've been really grateful to other writers for interviewing me on their blogs.

Today, Rachel Brimble is kindly hosting me on hers. Rachel is a UK writer who has become an online friend and I'd love anyone visiting to check out her novels. I love the way writers can support each other by interacting like this. I hope to be hosting more writers on my other blog over the summer.

If you have time to come and say hello, you'll find me at Rachel Brimble's Blog.

Romy

Empire Line Dresses

2011-05-30T03:15:00.000-07:00

Regency Ball Gown

From the 1800s to around the middle of the nineteenth century, women wore fewer clothes than ever before. Influenced by graceful, classical Roman and Greek styles, the high-waisted dress became very popular during the 19^th century.

By the time of Napoleon Bonaparte’s rule in

France

, it was known as the Empire waist, or Empire-line dress, and was the mode of dress worn in the Regency period of 1811 to 1820. Dresses often resembled a full length, thin nightdress, with a low neckline, or décolleté. The ‘waist’ of the dress was actually under the bust and the material then flowed in a narrow column to the floor.

During the day, women wore light, plain muslin dresses, even in winter. They often wore a pelisse outdoors, which was a cross between an over dress and a light coat, buttoned down the front, often shorter to display some of the dress beneath. Dinner dresses were sometimes of velvet or satin, while evening gowns were cut square and low at the bosom. Some dresses were trimmed with frills or rolls of the same material.

A very romantic time, when women’s figures were less constricted by hoops and bustles!

Romy

Interview by the UK Romantic Novelists' Association

2011-05-27T02:38:00.000-07:00

The wonderful Romantic Novelists’ Association in the UK comprises many different kinds of romance writers in a lively association with ‘chapters’ around the country. Their parties and conferences are marvellous fun and their quarterly magazine, Romance Matters, provides great information and news.

But it's their New Writers’ Scheme which is second to none. Any unpublished novelist of romantic fiction can join the NWS each January, although you have to apply quickly as it's so popular! The fee includes an in-depth critique on a full novel from a professional author and is worth every penny. Two of my novels have been through the scheme and the first, Dangerous Deceit, is the one finally published this month. Prospective publishers and agents like the fact that a submitted novel has been through such a reading.

Any author who subsequently signs a contract can then go on to become a full member of the RNA, which I have done! Today, I am honoured to be featured on the RNA blog , as I owe my continued efforts at writing full length fiction solely to the RNA.

If you want to come and say hello, you can find my interview on the RNA Blog.

Romy

Inspiration Behind Dangerous Deceit

2011-05-26T01:33:00.000-07:00

I'm talking about the inspiration behind Dangerous Deceit on the lovely L.K. Below's blog today, if anyone has some spare time and wants to have a look.

Romy

Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire

2011-05-23T02:37:00.000-07:00

I watched the excellent film, The Duchess, at the weekend and was instantly transported back to Georgian Britain, with its beautiful architecture and sumptuous fashions. It is based on the wonderful book, Georgiana, Duches of Devonshire by Amanda Foreman.

As the daughter of the 18th century Lady Spencer, many similarities have been mentioned over the years between Georgiana's life and that of the 20th century, Lady Diana Spencer who became a princess. Certainly, both were in unhappy marriages that involved a third person. And both were highly celebrated as young women of fashion and popularity.

I was more interested in the double standards of the period portrayed in the film. Although the Duke of Devonshire was one of the most eligible bachelors of the day, it soon became clear that he married the beautiful, much younger, Georgiana in order to procure an heir. But he had no intention of being a faithful husband and as well as foisting his illegitimate daughter on his wife, he begins a bizzare relationship with the Lady whom Georgiana brings into their home as her friend.

Georgiana retaliates eventually by taking her own lover, but it is doomed to fail. I won't spoil the film by giving away the whole story! It was a fascinating picture of the lives of some of the aristocrasy of the time and the way in which women had few rights, no matter their standing. It is to Georgiana's credit that she remained so popular with many of the leading people of the time, although she had a terrible penchant for gambling.

For anyone interested in the period, it is well worth reading the book, or watching the film.

Romy

Being Interviewed by Janice Horton

2011-05-19T00:35:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone - I'm being grilled, sorry interviewed, by my lovely writing friend, Janice Horton, on her blog today. I'd love you to stop by and say hello, if you have time!

Romy

Georgian Architecture - Pollok House, Glasgow

2011-05-13T12:19:00.000-07:00

Rear of Pollok House

Set within Pollok Park in Glasgow, Pollok House dates from about 1750 and is a fine example of Georgian architecture. Although it is now managed by the National Trust for

Scotland

, it was the ancestral home of the Maxwell family who had links to the original grounds for 700 years. Mrs Maxwell McDonald presented Pollok House to the City of Glasgow in 1966. Admission still remains free during the winter months from October to March and thereafter there is an admission charge to the upper floors of the house.

The old Servants’ Quarters in the basement now houses a shop and the lovely Kitchen Restaurant with its delicious home-baking and locally sourced food. These can be accessed at any time. The inside of the house is gracious and almost homely, although it does have a magnificent collection of art, including famous Spanish works by Goya and El Greco.

The gardens are beautifully laid out and are famous for the vast number of rhododendron species. Pollok Park itself is Glasgow’s largest country park, with plenty of woodland paths and trails, and the nearby Burrell Collection. The White Cart Water runs through the estate and is spanned by an 18^th century bridge not far from the house. On some days, visitors can even see the working Clydesdale Horses, and there is a field of Highland cattle. All within easy reach of the centre of Glasgow.

The recent BBC television series set in Georgian times, Garrow's Law, was filmed partly in and around Pollok House because of its authentic 18th century architecture and grounds.

Bridge over White Cart Water

On a visit to Pollok House, it is easy to imagine walking about the house and gardens in the gracious clothes of the 18th century!

Romy

The Morning After the Night Before

2011-05-06T03:36:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally slept off the (virtual) Champagne, punch, and excessive excitement of yesterday’s cyber launch party. What an incredible day, and I have all you lovely people to thank for making it such a wonderful success. I am truly overwhelmed by the support, encouragement and good wishes I received: here on the blog, on Facebook and through personal emails. I just received this gorgeous little flower card from a lovely friend, Lorna, to wish me good luck with the book. I love it so much, I'm putting it on my reading and writing blog too as it goes well with today's post there!

Thank you to every person who bought my book, or intends to, either on e-book or in print. But even if you have no intention of buying or reading it, I thank you for your interest and support. I shall always remember my first venture into full length fiction. To make the day complete, my local newspaper ran a feature about me and it was in last night’s edition! My lovely journalist friend, Sara, did a piece on me in the Dumfries & Galloway Standard today (and is contacting another of my more local papers). I feel a little like royalty for this week, though it’s a shame I look nothing like William’s Kate!

A few friends couldn't manage to leave a comment on the blog, through no fault of their own but did on the facebook page – perhaps it sometimes couldn’t cope with the number trying at the one time! So, in the spirit of fairness, their names were entered into the draw along with everyone who commented here, and I’ve included their answers in the fun questions.

And so to the Results! I’ll give the run down of the Jane Austen Character quiz and the Heroes first, but not with the names of those choosing them – you all know who you are!

Jane Austen Characters

Elinor Dashwood (12)

Elizabeth Bennet (4)

Catherine Morland (1)

Anne Elliot (1)

Emma Woodhouse (1)

Fanny Price (1)

Wonder if it’s because many of us are writers that we seem to belong to the Elinor Dashwood Club! Interesting that no one is Marianne Dashwood - we perhaps have hidden depths.

Heroes

Rett Butler (4)

Mr Darcy (4 )

Heathcliffe (2)

Atticus Finch (2)

Mr Knightly (2)

John Thornton (1)

(Richard Armitage!)

Hitman (1)

Gandalf (1)

Hamish McBeth (1)

(Robert Carlyle)

Aragorn (1)

(Viggo Mortensen)

Capt Jack Sparrow (1)

(Johnny Depp!)

Sydney Carton (1)

Steven Seagal (1)

(heroic with ONE expression!)

The Quiet Man (1)

Mr Rochester (1)

Own Husband (2)

(and one of above!)

That was fun. Some surprises too. If you don’t know who any of them are, look them up. One or two were from men with a sense of humour. Another humorous friend who couldn't leave a message here said 'a man who did all the cleaning and paid the bills so she could write'!

And now, randomly chosen by my husband from a bowl containing all my guests’ names.

The Voucher Awards

£10 Amazon voucher to: Elizabeth McKay

$10 Amazon voucher to: Linda Kage

Well done! I’m so pleased that one is for a home-grown guest, and one from a transatlantic friend, especially when the names were all mixed up together.

I'll contact you shortly, Elizabeth and Linda, and will get the vouchers emailed on their way sometime today.

Again – many, many thanks to all who participated in any way to make my day so special.

Love to all,

Romy

Available now from Champagne Books and Amazon (UK) and Amazon (US)

Cyber Launch Party of Dangerous Deceit!

2011-05-04T15:42:00.000-07:00

Just a short note to say a huge thank you to everyone who helped make my launch such a fantastic success, whether you left a comment, bought a book or intend to at some time in the future. I'm going to log off for the night now (can't stay awake any longer!), but I'll continue to add names to the hat, if anyone else from a different time zone leaves a comment today (your time). And I shall come back at some point tomorrow and give you the results of the draw, the Jane Austen characters and the heroes! Thank you one and all, dear friends.

Available from Amazon

Dangerous Deceit

A very warm welcome to the cyber launch of Dangerous Deceit and thank you for coming! This is hopefully going to be a fun day to help me celebrate publication of my debut novel. I’ve waited a long time for this, so I aim to enjoy myself. But I want you to have fun too.

First, a huge thank you to all who have already bought my book – and I know many of you have, as it stormed into the top 100 bestseller list on Amazon UK yesterday in Romance, and Historical Romance! Thanks to lovely Janice for letting me know. It doesn’t last as it changes so frequently, but it was a great boost on one day.

Now grab a glass of chilled Champagne from the bottle above on the right and have some fun. Here’s to writing and friendship!

There are quizzes to take and questions to answer below as well as the trailer and an excerpt of the novel. Leave as many comments as you like throughout the day – I’ll be in and out all the time and can chat to anyone who can hang around for a while. I’ve decided to choose two random names from the comments to receive an Amazon voucher for either £10 or $15 (roughly equivalent) depending on where the winners live. The names of all those commenting will be put in a hat and husband will pick out the winners – so the more you comment, the more chance to win! I’ll post the winners names tomorrow to give my transatlantic guests time to enter.

So here we go – dip in and out of everything below. Read and participate as much as you like!

Try the Jane Austen Quiz and let me know who you are, then we can see how many there are for each character. I’ve done it a few times and keep coming out as Elinor Dashwood – not Elizabeth Bennet or Anne Elliot as I thought I might be! Apologies to any men, but you could try it for fun.

Take the quiz

Here’s a little background history to my novel’s setting in 1813.

So what was the Regency period? When poor King George III had his bout of ‘madness’ his son, the Prince Regent, took control until he became King in his own right. Hence the years between 1811 and 1820 were known as the Regency. It still has the power to fascinate as it was quite different in some ways from the Georgian period before, and the Victorian era afterwards, not least in the fashion of empire line gowns. Prinny himself liked a good time and always had an entourage of the haute ton in his trail. Beau Brummell was a particular favourite, even referring to the Prince as someone's “fat friend”, until he fell out of favour and reached a less savoury end to his life.

The Napoleonic Wars were raging between Britain and France, until Waterloo ended in victory for Britain and the allies in 1815. Spies were abroad on both sides, and many young men were in the Regiment, causing female hearts to flutter whenever they were invited to the many balls. Young ladies were expected to be models of decorum, with skills such as painting, singing and playing the harpsichord or pianoforte and, of course, above all else they usually had to make a good marriage. As always, men had a far freer time of it, often indulging in hunting, gambling and profligate behaviour. The Rake is often a figure of the Regency, and beside their clubs such as White's, there was the famous Hellfire Club from the early 1700s.

Jane Austen’s novels and letters to her sister Cassandra spanned the late Georgian period through the Regency until her death in 1817. She tended to write about provincial life and was known for her keen wit and sharp observations. One of her most popular novels, Pride & Prejudice, was published in 1813 to excellent reviews. By the time Emma was published in 1815, Jane Austen was such a favourite of the Prince Regent that he invited her to Carlton House. Not that she was overjoyed to accept as she disapproved of his way of living.

The other great writer about the Regency period was Georgette Heyer, who kept many readers enthralled by her novels from the 1920s to the 1970s. Heyer was the mistress of witty and energetic stories that took the reader on a whirlwind adventure through the lives and loves of the upper classes in Georgian and Regency times. She is still read widely today and her novels were recently reissued. Many writers have continued to write popular Regencies ever since. And, of course, I too felt drawn to the period for my first novel!

This is the trailer I made as a teaser for Dangerous Deceit – if you’ve already seen it, you can ignore it!

And now another little teaser - an extract from Dangerous Deceit, from Chapter 3. This is for the romantics, like me.

“I believe you have lost something, Miss Hetherington.”

Lydia

’s eyes widened as she watched Lord Sheldon lazily hold out his hand. He was holding a gold ribbon such as Agnes had threaded in her hair earlier that evening! She put her hand to her head and realized, belatedly, that her hair had started to come undone at the back. The ribbon must have caught on the

bush where she’d hidden. She couldn’t think what to say for a moment until she saw the challenge in his stare.

“I fear you must be following me, my lord. I was unaware that the ribbon had come loose as I took a turn around the garden. I wonder that you should know to whom it belongs.” She held out her hand. “Thank you for returning it.”

She saw his shoulders stiffen and was sure he knew perfectly well that she’d seen him with the Frenchman.

Then

Lydia

saw the speculation in his grey eyes replaced by amusement as he walked towards her. “Allow me, Miss Hetherington.”

Before she guessed what he intended, his hands were on her upper arms and for a moment he was looking into her eyes. Then he gently turned her away from him. Next minute, he was expertly threading the ribbon

through her hair.

Lydia

held her breath as she felt his fingers brush against her head. It was as if something was making her skin tingle. Too soon, he had secured the ribbon. Yet still his fingers lingered for a moment against her hair and she hoped he could not hear the loud beating of her heart.

She tried to persuade herself that it was only because of her near discovery at eavesdropping. But she was far too aware of the nearness of his tall frame and the intimacy of the moment, and most especially the effect it was having on her.

Then he was turning her around once more to face him. He stepped back at once and bowed. “I trust you will be more careful where you walk in future, Miss Hetherington.”

Hoping she appeared more composed than she felt,

Lydia

replied as firmly as possible. “Thank you, my lord. It is my good fortune that you are so comfortable with a lady’s hair style and so solicitous of my well being.”

Lydia

returned his stare, determined not to betray how bereft she’d felt as he stepped away from her. There was no doubt that he’d seen her in the garden and was warning her. But against what, she wondered.

Now it’s your turn to play. What is your favourite type of hero? Or who is your favourite hero from a book or film? Men can give me their favourite heroine (if you want).

Leave your answer in the comments box and I’ll see if there’s an overall favourite and he can be our pin-up!

Pause for a glass of Ratafia, a sweet cordial which usually contained some kind of fruit and brandy, or punch, or ale, some warm chocolate, or even a cup of tea, and maybe a piece of caraway seed cake.

Punch – favourite late 18^th century drink (from ‘A Taste of History’, British Museum Press, 1993)

2 pints claret

½ pint brandy

Grated nutmeg, sugar and lemon juice to taste

Toast to serve

Mix the ingredients and serve in a punch bowl with toasted bread floating on the top. A variation of this was milk punch, with milk instead of wine.

Think I’d prefer it without the bread!

Recipe for Rich Seed Cake (from ‘A Taste of History’)

8oz plain flour 1tsp grated nutmeg

1 tsp cinnamon 1oz caraway seeds

8oz unsalted butter, softened

8oz caster sugar

4 eggs, separated, tepid

Line and grease an 8in by 3in deep cake tin.

Sift flour and spices into a large, slightly warm bowl and add caraway seeds.

Cream butter and sugar thoroughly.

In a warm jug, beat the tepid yolks well then add to the creamed mixture gradually, beating well after each addition.

Beat the egg whites stiff but not dry.

Using a metal spoon, fold the beaten whites and flour into the creamed mixture, about a fifth at a time.

Stop as soon as mixture is amalgamated.

Empty gently into the prepared tin and fork roughly level.

Bake in middle of oven at Gas mark 3, 325F, 170C for 1 ½ hours.

Cool in tin 10 minutes and turn on to a wire rack and remove papers.

(Elizabeth Raffald: The experienced English housewife)

If anyone tries it, please let me know what it’s like!

Ladies you might like to use your fan if it gets too hot at this point.

Gentlemen, please do not remove your jacket. I’m afraid you have to remain buttoned up with your snowy cravat in place at all times, like that exquisitely dressed Beau Brummell.

This is the kind of cravat you were expected to tie.

Ladies - I hope you have on your correct undergarments! Oh, la, la!

Well I think I’ve probably bored you long enough. Please drop in and out to chat throughout the day, if you have a moment. And if you have any questions, I shall try to answer them, or tell you where to find out!

Many thanks for coming to my party.

Romy

Invitation to a Cyber Launch

2011-05-04T01:20:00.000-07:00

Please come and join me tomorrow, Thursday, May 5th, if you can, to celebrate the cyber launch of Dangerous Deceit.

It will be a fun day, with an Amazon voucher awarded to a writer leaving a comment tomorrow - husband will get the pleasure of choosing a winner from the hat!

Hope to see you there.
Romy

Short Story in the Waterloo Collection

2011-05-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to have a short story in the Waterloo Collection, an anthology of some of the stories (from adults and children) submitted to a recent competition. All the stories were to take place during the days leading up to the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Since my novel, Dangerous Deceit, takes place in 1813 and mentions the Napoleonic Wars, I was very keen to try this competition. My story, 'Dancing into Battle', was one of the Highly Commended prize winners in third place.

The Collection was launched last weekend in Devon by Professor Richard Holmes, an expert on Waterloo, and he has written the foreword and signed the book. Evidently, the standard of competition entries was so high that they decided to publish some of the stories. The Collection is to raise funds for Project Huogoumont, in the hope of restoring the dilapidated farm on the site of the Battlefield in Belgium, in time for the 200th anniversary of Waterloo in 2015.

It's a stunning cover, isn't it? Copyright of the cover art remains with artist Chris Collingwood, having been granted permission for it by 'Project Hougoumont' .

Romy

A Versatile Award

2011-04-27T06:09:00.000-07:00

I'm very grateful to fellow writer Debbie at Bluestocking Mum for the Versatile Writer Award below. It's always humbling to know that people actually read our blogs and find them worthy of an award! Debbie's own blog is a great read. This is also a marvellous way to discover new blogs and I'd recommend a dip into those below if you have time.

In the spirit of the award, I have to list 7 things about myself, then pass the award on to others. I'm choosing to pass it on to ten other blogs I enjoy reading - I've tried to include blogs I've never given an award to before, although there are many more I could have chosen!

Seven Things:

1. I worked in the Isle of Man for the two summers before leaving school.
2. Fulfilled my adolescent fantasy of having a midnight swim there one evening (it was wonderful)!
3. The dance I most want to learn is the Tango (not sure about husband though).
4. I studied Latin for two years at school for pleasure (which it was) - and I scraped an 'O' Grade in it!
5. I love travelling by train (as does husband) and still have some countries to explore that way.
6. Did a year and a half nurse's training after school until discovering I detested hospitals (and still do).
7. I once youth hostelled around part of Scotland with a friend (in the distant past).

Now I have pleasure in passing the award on to:

Linda Kage

Janice Horton

Frances Garrood

Teresa Ashby
Carol's Corner
Debs Carr
Diane Fordham
Luci Wheeler
Diana at My Life in Writing
Suzy at My Journal

Enjoy,
Rosemary

First Blog Interview!

2011-04-25T06:36:00.000-07:00

Feeling slightly excited that my very first blog interview is now posted by lovely Champagne author, Linda Kage here. Since this whole new world of online promotion, marketing, trailers and forums has opened up with my soon-to-be-published first novel, it's been quite a journey from my study and computer here in Scotland to cyberspace.

And that's the huge advantage with e-publishing - that instant connection with people around the world. I will always treasure my paper books, and want to hold a 'real' copy of my own Dangerous Deceit in my hands. But I also love my Kindle and appreciate the ease with which I can download new books - and others will be able to download mine (hopefully!). It has also made available wonderful novels I might otherwise never have known about.

As I look forward to my cyber launch in May, I'm grateful to other writers like Linda who take time to showcase new authors like me. Look out for other interviews soon!

Romy

Making a Video Trailer!

2011-04-16T01:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I thought it might be a good idea to play around with making a video trailer for Dangerous Deceit - not as easy as I hoped! But I used Windows Movie Maker and have ended up with something that might do to show the basic outline of the novel. And I like the music! So here goes...

Please feel free to offer advice, or comments!
Romy

Cover Art for Dangerous Deceit!

2011-04-07T03:28:00.000-07:00

Exciting news - I now have the cover art for my very first novel, Dangerous Deceit! Champagne Books has two excellent artists and I'm delighted with the way Trisha FitzGerald has portrayed my heroine. Lydia is young and innocent but she is very spirited, with a tendency to lose her hair pins. With villains and spies and a tangled web of deception, Lydia is soon in danger and doesn't even know if she can trust the hero, Lord Marcus Sheldon. But they are increasingly attracted to each other...

Dangerous Deceit is coming out as an e-book from Champagne Books in May, followed by print about 2 months later. Not long now!

Romy

Intoducing Janice Horton and the Bagpipes & Bullshot Tour!

2011-04-01T01:23:00.000-07:00

Today, I'm hosting the lovely UK author Janice Horton on my reading and writing blog, as she makes her way around a blog tour promoting her Kindle e-book, Bagpipes & Bullshot. This is a fabulous, romantic comedy set amidst the glorious Scottish countryside of Dumfries and Galloway.

When handsome Scottish Laird Innes Buchanan meets beautiful Texan cowgirl Orley McKenna and brings her over to his impoverished estate in

Scotland

, it’s for more than her expertise with cattle. But before their romance can properly begin, Orley has to contend with a run-down country mansion, a frosty Lady of the manor, and a vengeful ex-girlfriend who puts Lady Macbeth to the shade.

Bagpipes & Bullshot is a wonderful romp of a novel with a hero and heroine to fall in love with and many laugh-out-loud moments. Although it’s a humorous novel, there is real background knowledge of the Scottish farming and breeding concerns which lends authenticity to the story. Brilliant fun!

Please join in the fun on Janice's blog, where Janice will be sharing a recipe for bullshot, and you can even hear Innes play the bagpipes! If you leave a comment on her blog, you might even win a kindle beach protector.

Romy

Vauxhall Gardens

2011-03-29T03:30:00.000-07:00

Vauxhall Gardens in 1809

One of the scenes in my forthcoming novel, Dangerous Deceit, takes place in Vauxhall Gardens in London. These were the pleasure gardens of the Regency era (and before) where all levels of society rubbed shoulders together. And what a place for intrigue! The many secluded paths, groves, and arbours must have allowed men and women an ideal opportunity to arrange clandestine meetings.

With supper boxes, orchestras and fireworks, it was a lively venue. As well as the rogues and courtesans, the more ‘well-to-do’ took pleasure in all it had to offer. There was even an elaborate festival to celebrate one of Wellington’s victories, and I allude to that in the novel. Thackery’s Vanity Fair has a great scene at Vauxhall, where the scheming minx, Rebecca Sharp, loses her chance to capture Amelia’s brother, Jos Sedley.

Since my heroine and the other main characters in Dangerous Deceit spend an evening at Vauxhall, Lydia has an unpleasant incident that seemed ideal for such a venue. You'll be able to read it soon!

Romy

Edits and Proofs

2011-03-20T02:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I feel a step nearer to publication as I received the proof copy of Dangerous Deceit during the week. I've been going through it carefully for any errors - unfortunately that's all I can change at this stage! Hope I'm not the only author who wishes she'd written some things a little differently. Or perhaps that happens with every new book. I expected to be thoroughly sick of reading it after going through the edits a while back, but it wasn't too bad.

So now, I'm looking forward to getting the cover - that's almost more exciting to me than the actual novel! Meantime, I'm reading and commenting on lots of blogs and forums to get the hang of networking and promotion in time for the May release. But when am I going to get on with more writing, I ask myself!

Romy

Stylish Blogger Award

2011-03-15T03:09:00.000-07:00

First I have two people to thank for the Stylish Blogger award you can see on the right hand side. This is a great way to get to know other writers and their interesting blogs. The idea is to then pass the blog on to others and to list 7 things about yourself. I've already listed things about myself on my readingandwriting blog, which received the award a while ago, but I'll try and think of a few other things! So thank you to my lovely, talented daughter, Vikki, whose own blog is throughthelookingglass. Thanks also to fellow writer Carol, whose blog is here.

So seven things you probably don't want to know!

1. I was Mary in the school nativity play when 5 years old and I had to sing a lullaby.

2. I love all kinds of dancing and now go to Tap.

3. My favourite authors when younger were: Mary Stewart, Victoria Holt, Phyllis Whitney, Georgette Heyer and Agatha Christie.

4. My all time favourite books are: Jane Eyre, Pride and Prejudice, and Rebecca.

5. I've always been a water baby and sometimes liked to pretend I was a mermaid when under the water (not now!).

6. My favourite periods are Medieval and Regency.

7. I love to write with appropriate music in the background, but sometimes I'll put on an upbeat piece and dance!

And now to pass the award on to some great blogs.

Linda Kage
Lindsay's Ramblings
Rachel Brimble
One Woman's Write

I'm sure there are many more but I've already awarded a stylish blogger to some from my other blog. Enjoy checking these out.

Romy

Talking about Music

2011-03-08T09:04:00.000-08:00

I’ve been talking about musical inspiration over on my readingandwriting blog, so I thought I’d post a little about Haydn whose great work, The Creation, I’ve heard and enjoyed many times.

Franz Joseph Haydn was born in Rohrau, Austria-Hungary in 1732 and by 1758 he had become the Kapellmeister (Director of Music) to the court of Count Karl Morzin. Three years later, and now married, he was appointed court musician to Prince Esterhazy, eventually becoming Kapellmeister, where he stayed for almost thirty years.

Haydn had visited England a few times and seemingly was so impressed by Handel’s oratorios, particularly The Messiah, that he decided he must try a choral work of his own. Haydn eventually brought his English libretto to Vienna where it was translated into German by Baron Van Swieten, a wealthy patron and diplomat. He began his composition in 1796 and completed it in 1798.

The Creation used the Bible as its source, mainly the books of Genesis and the Psalms, and took some inspiration from John Milton’s great seventeenth century poem, Paradise Lost. The first performance was sung in German and two years later a bilingual edition was published.

In the midst of the Age of Reason, during the Enlightenment period, Haydn’s great oratorio is undeniably a religious work. The first and second part of the score follows the six days of creation while part three celebrates the place of man and woman in the world. Haydn himself is reported as saying: “I was never so devout as when I was at work on The Creation.”

Franz Joseph Haydn died in Vienna in May 1809, while Napoleon’s army occupied the city. Haydn is credited with establishing the symphonic form and type of orchestral composition that would eventually be adopted by Mozart and Beethoven. It was an exciting time for music as the late Baroque period gave way to the Classical period, of which Haydn arguably was the first great master.

If anyone is interested, you can read more in my published article on Haydn.

Romy

Link to Lord Byron Post

2011-02-27T06:49:00.000-08:00

My article about the mad, bad and dangerous to know Lord Byron appears on the Champagne Blog today. I thought I'd introduce him properly as he appears in one scene of my forthcoming novel, Dangerous Deceit. Fascinating Regency man and famous poet!

You can find the article here.

Romy

Introducing Texan Writer Linda LaRoque

2011-02-24T06:04:00.000-08:00

Available from Amazon or Champagne Books

Anyone interested in a great time-slip romance might like to check out my review of Linda LaRoque's new book, A Way Back, on my reading and writing blog. Travel from modern New York to the Wall Street Crash and Great Depression of 1930 and find out how Amber Mathis meets Wellman Hathaway.

Linda kindly answered some questions about herself, and leaves some excellent advice for new writers.

Enjoy!
Romy

The Royal Mail Coach

2011-02-08T03:07:00.000-08:00

Since the Royal Mail will soon be coping with all the Valentine cards being posted at the end of the week, I thought it would be fun to look at the Royal Mail delivery in Georgian and Regency times.

Regency roads were full of different types of carriages and coaches, and none was so fine and distinctive, in its red and black livery, as the Royal Mail Coach. The first mail-coach journey was from Bath to London in 1784 and it took 16 hours for the 170km journey. Once the roads improved, it was able to travel at the fast speed, for those days, of 19km per hour. The horses were changed roughly every 11km to keep them fresh enough to maintain a speedy journey.

Since the Royal Mail coach was responsible for the delivery of precious letters and parcels, highwaymen were sometimes a problem. Each coach was protected by a coachman and a guard armed with a blunderbuss. They also often carried a brace of pistols each. In the early days, only a few inside passengers were allowed on the coach, increasing to one beside the coachman, before they eventually allowed several passengers on top.

Even in those days, the Post Office tried to ensure that all mail was safely delivered to the recipient. If anything happened to the coach, the guard was responsible for getting the mail through on horse, or even foot if necessary! Each mail-coach also had its own repair kit for simple repairs. The mail’s importance was even more emphasised by the blast from the horn to ensure it was given right of way from all other traffic.

Sometimes, we maybe take it for granted that our mail will be correctly and safely delivered (most of time). I wonder if Regency people had the same expectations.

Romy

Hearts and Flowers Party

2011-01-30T06:35:00.000-08:00

As that annual time of romance draws near, Champagne Books is having a month-long party on their blog during February, with lots of authors taking part.

I'm doing a post on the 'mad, bad and dangerous to know' Lord Byron on 27th February. Byron appears in a scene in my novel, Dangerous Deceit, as I've long been fascinated by him. And some of his poetry is good too!

The party is worth a look - there are going to be lots of giveaways on different days. Details below.

Hope to see you there,
Romy

Please join us at

Champagne Books Blog
for a Hearts and Flowers Party
during the month of February.

Champagne Books Authors will be blogging, sharing excerpts, book trailers, and many, many

e-book give-aways.
Don't miss out!

Robert Burns: A Man's a Man for a' That!

2011-01-23T06:54:00.000-08:00

Famous in many parts of the world, Burns Night takes place every year on January 25th, the birthdate of Scottish poet Robert Burns who was born in Ayrshire in 1759. This is the evening when special dinners, Burns Suppers, are held to commemorate the Bard. A time when otherwise sensible folk sit down to dine on haggis, neeps and tatties. But not before the haggis itself is brought to table on a silver platter accompanied by the sound of the bagpipes. Then there are the toasts and speeches: the Toast to the Haggis, the Immortal Memory and the Toast to the Lassies, followed by the reply - hopefully with the touch of humour which characterised Burns.

The evening continues with readings and songs from Burns' many works and if it's a large formal gathering, there might be Scottish country dancing. Like all good Scottish events, it ends with Auld Lang Syne.

Robert Burns might be a well known poet, but he was also a farmer and exciseman, working hard to earn a living for his growing family. He was also well known for his many flirtations, including several illegitimate offspring.

But few people can deny that Burns left a legacy of wonderful poetry and song. He had that ability to see right to the heart of many situations, making fun of the hypocrisy of man and church, regarding all men as equal. One such song is 'A Man's a Man for a' That'. No matter if you're a king or a pauper, you're still the same in the end. The final two lines resonate just as much today as they did in Burns' 18th century.

"That Man to Man, the world o'er,
Shall brothers be for a' that".

Enjoy Burns day wherever in the world you might be!
Romy

If anyone wants to know a little more about Burns' life as an exciseman, you can read my Suite101 article here.

Inspiring Women: Harriet Martineau

2011-01-10T03:23:00.000-08:00

We revisited Tynemouth last year, one of our favourite parts of Northumberland, England. Situated on the coast near Newcastle, it has a glorious seascape with long beaches and a ruined Abbey. This time, we stayed at a guest house I'd been looking at each time we visited the area, called Martineau House. And there I made a delightful discovery.

One of the long-ago visitors to the original house was Harriet Martineau, hence the name of the present guest house. Her name didn't really mean anything to me, until I started reading about this remarkable woman. She was born in 1802 and became a novelist, a social reformer, political economist and the first woman journalist in England. And through it all, Harriet suffered from ill-health, one of the reasons she was at the coast. It was quite exciting to see the Priory Room at the back of the guest house, from where Harriet wrote some of her work. This is part of her description of the view: "When I look forth in the morning... The myrtle-green sea tumbles..."

It is quite humbling to think of what this inspiring woman achieved from the Regency to Victorian era, a time when women were not exactly free to express themselves. Anyone interested in knowing more, can read about Harriet Martineau in my published Suite101 article.

Romy

Exciting New Year

2011-01-04T01:37:00.000-08:00

The old year was one of great opportunities and hard work, in which I did two big adjudications and saw many of my own short stories and articles in print. The highlight of course was the acceptance of my first novel, Dangerous Deceit, by Champagne Books in Canada. What a rollercoaster that was, with my very first professional edits completed just at the year end. My lovely editor, Nikki, made that a pleasant experience. Looking forward to the final proofs, and especially to getting the cover.

I'm an optimist by nature, and always look forward with anticipation to what a new year might bring. This year already features two major events. My son is getting married at the beginning of July and my novel comes out in May! How exciting is that? Son's wedding will be fairly small and is taking place on a Scottish island, so I'm really looking forward to it.

Gradually getting into the swing of this newer blog and I'll be adding more information to it soon. Now I have to get more involved in promotion over the next few months and I've already taken part in a couple of online chats. This is all new to me!

Thank you to all who take time to read the blog or leave comments on it. It's much appreciated.

Here's to a happy, healthy and successful 2011.
Romy

Happy Hogmanay and Auld Lang Syne

2010-12-31T07:17:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a very happy New Year when it comes. Today is our Scottish Hogmanay when traditional music, dancing and fireworks will light up many a town or village. I couldn't resist posting the above photo - I took it on a misty day looking across the river. For me it encapsulates the romance of Scotland.

I'll be bringing in the New Year with my family - a meal at the local inn first, then waiting for the 'bells' at midnight to toast 2011 with a wee dram (or a drink of some kind if you don't drink whisky). We'll probably send my son outside the house so he can come back in and be our first foot - he looks the necessary part: tall, dark and handsome!

I'm sure Robert Burns' famous words will be sung or spoken in many parts of the world tonight.

"Should auld acquaintance be forgot?
And never brought tae mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot?
For auld lang syne."

I hope you get to "tak a cup o' kindness" with someone you love tonight.

A guid New Year to one and all.
Romy

Introducing Scottish Historical Writer, Maggie Craig

2010-12-28T03:50:00.000-08:00

Maggie Craig is an accomplished historian who also writes wonderful fiction set in her native Scotland. Her most recent novel, One Sweet Moment, is highly recommended as it takes the reader on a journey to 1820s Edinburgh. But this is not the usual type of romance in the final days of the Regency; this is a tale of life and love in the rawness of an Edinburgh divided by the rich and poor.

You can find out all about Maggie and her writing (and research) of this novel in my interview with her on my reading and writing blog. Her answers are very informative and interesting!

Romy

Happy Christmas!

2010-12-23T04:31:00.000-08:00

Wherever you are spending the festive season, I wish you a very happy Christmas. As always I cook the Christmas meal for any of the family who can come and it goes like this: turkey, mini sausages wrapped in bacon, two types of stuffing (one made into balls for baking), bread sauce, cranberry sauce, roast potatoes (and boiled), Brussels sprouts, parsnips, carrots and gravy.

We have home made lentil soup before it and home made trifle afterwards, with coffee and chocolates if we’ve room! A veritable feast compared to what we usually eat. Personally, I love eating up some of the leftovers on Boxing Day since I don’t have to cook it all then.

It’s so cold here compared to our usual December; normally we have temperatures of -1 or -2. But we’ve been in a new ice age since November. The past week, it’s hardly risen above -8 or -9, and it’s worse further north. I’ve been trying to keep the garden birds supplied with food each day and yesterday brought an interesting visitor.

We’re at the top of a hill in our village and the back garden overlooks the fields, with woods not far away. So, in strolls a pheasant looking for some food. She is nice and plump for someone’s dinner table but we don’t shoot them here (in this particular place)! I’m more likely to adopt her as a pet, if she keeps coming back.

In Georgian and Regency times, the Christmas dinner probably contained a goose or venison, and perhaps other game birds, so my pheasant would most likely have ended up on the table. Turkey didn’t become as popular until Victorian times.

Hope you all enjoy your own particular celebrations.

Romy

Introducing UK Writer Bill Kirton

2010-12-17T08:04:00.000-08:00

The Figurehead is a wonderful novel set in Aberdeen, Scotland, in 1840. Beginning with a suspicious death, the plot involves a whodunit and why, the carving of a figurehead for the new ship, the social differences between ordinary people and the gentry, and a tentative love story. All with the background of sea-faring, Victorian Aberdeen.

Highly recommended. I interviewed Bill on my readingandwriting blog today. He is an accomplished author worth checking out, as he also writes crime, children's stories and academic non-fiction.

Romy

Early Snow

2010-12-02T06:55:00.000-08:00

Winter has come early to the UK this year. Here in my part of Scotland, it's the coldest temperature we've had in November/early December for many a long year. The snow fall has been exceptional, even in parts of the country where they don't usually get much snow.

In my village, driving conditions have been quite hazardous, especially until the hill was gritted. We even had the snow plough up first at the weekend, it was so deep. I love the cold, dry and sunny winter weather, as long as I can get out. It's absolutely beautiful, with the snow on the hills across the river.

There's always a negative side though! I was supposed to be speaking at a writing group on Tuesday, down in the south of the country, and staying overnight with a friend. However, all the trains to that part were cancelled because of the treacherous conditions on the higher ground the train has to pass through. I didn't know that until my husband actually drove me up to Glasgow, as all our locals trains were disrupted too. What a disappointment - we're rescheduling for spring!

I love the above picture of members of the Regency period 'Bon Ton' ice skating in the 1800s - it all seems much more romantic!

Meantime, I can get on with finishing the second edit on my novel. Not much to do now. It's lovely to be warm and cozy inside as the darkness begins to fall around 4pm. Maybe this is more conducive to writing than warmer weather that entices us outside - at least that's what I'm hoping!

Romy

First Edit Completed & Blog Award

2010-11-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

I've been neglecting my blogs recently, but with good reason. Not only did I have my first full length edit to go through and return to my editor, but life has been busier this last couple of weeks than usual. I'm sure that's the case with most people when they want to set aside some particular time. But, hey, I get bored if there's nothing going on!

I had a lovely surprise when I discovered that Champagne colleague Linda Kage has awarded me a cute blog award. Isn't that just what you want to say to people sometimes? Go away, I'm writing - and the little picture is the next best thing to a having a real mug with that sentiment. So thanks, Linda!

I'm going to pass it on to two of my good writing colleagues here in Scotland, who entertain and inform through their blogs. And both are busy, busy people. So here you are Bill Kirton and Michael Malone, enjoy a cup of coffee in your cyber mug. I'm also passing it to lovely Texan writer, Linda la Roque, who was happy to answer my questions as a new author to Champagne Books. Thanks, Linda.

Romy

Chatting and Editing

2010-10-28T08:54:00.000-07:00

Had a great time yesterday, chatting with other Champagne authors at our online Halloween Party on Joyfully Reviewed. With all the questions and answers and general chat, it was a good way to get to know some more people a little better. It made me think again about all the great books and authors with Champagne Books, so I'm starting a list of their websites down the side of the blog. Check them out and enjoy some interesting new books.

I have now 'met' my editor and I'm really excited as it makes me feel like an author rather than a freelance writer! She sounds great and I'm sure we'll get along fine. I'm delighted to have a professional editor go through my novel - it's so easy for us to miss all the repetitions, or weak sections in our own work. I'm sure those authors who have already published a novel will know exactly what I mean. Looking forward to it all.

Romy

Tea and Corsets at a Costume Museum

2010-10-04T04:00:00.000-07:00

Last week, I spent a really interesting and fun day with some writing friends at the historic Shambellie House just outside of Dumfries in the South of Scotland. It now houses the Museum of Costume, with clothes dating from the 1870s to 1950. With beautiful gardens, a small shop, basement cafe and an impressive Willow Lady statue in the grounds, there was plenty to see.

In the Accessories Room, we even got the chance to put on a corset. I gave up trying to get laced into one (over clothes!) and thankfully one of my slimmer friends modelled it beautifully for us. While the period rooms were of some interest, my favourite was the special exhibition of Marriage in the Movies, where we could view wedding dresses from different periods and films.

No prizes for guessing which dresses I headed towards. There were three Regency style dresses that were used in Jane Austen films. The one I remembered right away was the gorgeous dress Jennifer Ehle wore as Elizabeth Bennet in the BBC production of Pride and Prejudice - it's the one on the left. I even managed to buy a little book about fashion in Jane Austen’s day.

A great day was had by us all, not least because we’re an online group of writers who only get to meet up every few months. As you can imagine, there was as much talking as viewing!

Rosemary

Jane Austen Regency World Magazine

2010-09-22T08:50:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite resources for all matters to do with the Regency period is the Jane Austen Regency World Magazine. I've been subscribing to this publication since the second issue away back in 2003 (I don't know what happened to the first issue!) and I've built up a superb index of interesting articles and information. The photo above shows some of the first issues - it now comes in smaller A5 size.

It's been fascinating starting to go through them again, and to catch up on all the recent ones I've still to read, especially when each new film or TV production of an Austen novel is highlighted on the cover or inside the magazine. So I have both Colin Firth and Matthew McFadyen as my cover Darcy!

The Jane Austen Regency World does have a website where you can get full details of the magazine, and lots of other lovely information. What I really want to do is visit Bath and watch the promenaders in their costumes during the festival each August. Or even to join in. One of these days...

Romy

Dancing

2010-09-10T01:58:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite hobbies, and ways to keep fit, is dancing, partly because I find music so meaningful and inspiring. So far I've tried belly dancing and salsa. Now I go to tap dancing classes which is great fun, especially when I put on the cute little tap shoes and hear the old fashioned music.

This week, I started the new craze that's sweeping the UK: zumba. I was told it was more aerobics than dancing, meaning it would be strenuous! However, in the event it was brilliant fun and, yes, pretty exhausting after the hour was up. Once again it's the music that makes me want to get moving and we did a combination of salsa, rumba, eastern, Greek, rock and roll and meringue moves. The hall was filled with women of all shapes, sizes, and ages and every single one of us was in a world of our own, going at our own pace to the wonderful, varied music.

One of my favourite parts of the Regency period is the romance of dancing at those glorious assembly room balls. Who could forget the scene in the BBC film where Mr Darcy (Colin Firth) dances with Elizabeth Bennet (Jennifer Ehle) for the first time. In fact the camera closes in on the first touch of their gloved hands to highlight the significance of this meeting. Most of the Jane Austen films have at least one memorable dance scene. I also like the scene from the film about Jane Austen, Becoming Jane, when she dances with Lefroy. The glances between them are pure romance! You can watch it via the following link.

Video link to Jane and Lefroy dancing

Romy

Romantic Novelists' Association

2010-09-01T08:48:00.000-07:00

I really have to thank the RNA (UK), as I finally completed my first novel in order to enter their wonderful New Writers’ Scheme a few years ago. This allows unpublished authors to submit the full manuscript of a romantic novel for an in-depth critique. The fee is well worth the resulting care and attention taken over the story.

We don’t get to know the reader’s name – and I don’t blame them considering how some people react to criticism! Having now had two quite different novels read through the scheme, I can say that you definitely need to be prepared for constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement. Great – that’s exactly what I want in a professional reading. I had good reports and their suggestions made both my novels stronger - and the first one is now being published!

I’d encourage anyone at the beginning of their full length fiction career to think about the New Writers’ Scheme, or the equivalent in other countries. But you have to be quick and apply to join in early January each year – they only take on 250 new writers and it's extremely popular. The complete novel is expected to be submitted by the end of August and you normally receive the report within a couple of months.

Once you eventually find a publisher (hopefully), you are then eligible for full membership of the association. So, leave aside the writer’s ego, take a deep breath and reap the benefits of a professional critique. And it's a great way to ensure you finish the novel!

Romy

The New Adventure Begins...

2010-08-27T12:55:00.000-07:00

The excitement lasted a whole week when I received the wonderful news: my first Regency novel, Dangerous Deceit, was accepted for publication by Champagne Books in Canada! So many family members, friends and writing colleagues to tell - I was on cloud nine. When the doorbell rang a few days later, it was a florist with this beautiful bouquet of flowers from a lovely writing friend. She understood what it meant to me, after years of freelance writing. And she knows how she will feel when it happens to her.

And so it begins... there's still the editing, the book cover, and the proofs to come before there is a book. But it's a new adventure and I'm more than ready to get started on the journey. Bring it on!