Particular Attachments...L.L. Diamond

Available on Amazon

L.L. Diamond has a new release due out in two days, Particular Attachments, and she is stopping by today to tell us a little about it. I'm excited to have her visit, having been some time since her last visit. Thank you, Ms. Diamond, for sharing your excitement about Georgiana and Nathaniel's story. I know all my readers are as anxious as I am to learn more so I will turn it over to you. Wecome! (Your book cover is beautiful!)

*****

Thanks so much for hosting me on this blog tour! I’m so excited to finally release Particular Attachments and tell everyone Georgiana and Nathaniel’s story. I knew Georgiana from Particular Intentions, but getting to know Nathaniel while writing this book was a lot of fun. I can’t wait for everyone to see what a great character he is!

I was very fortunate when Georgiana and Nathaniel told me their story for Particular Attachments. If you read the interview with Georgiana, she was a little reticent about answering my questions, but Lord Sele was not nearly so timid.

LLD: I suppose I ought to start by having you introduce yourself to our readers.

Lord Sele: I would be pleased to do so. My full name is Nathaniel George Henry Howard, Viscount Sele.

LLD: How long have you known Georgiana Darcy?

Lord Sele: My parents were great friends of the late George and Ann Darcy, so I suppose you could say I have known her since she was in her cradle—not that I recall such a time. I have simply known her for as long as I can remember.

LLD: Were the two of you friends as children?

Lord Sele: (Chuckles) My answer to your question would be no. I wished to be friends with her, but she was oft times difficult. She played with her doll and her reticule and ignored me frequently, which is why I attempted to gain her notice.

LLD: Somehow, I doubt you wished to be kicked in the shin.

Lord Sele: No, I admit that I never intended for that manner of notice, yet I did naught but arrive at Pemberley that day.

LLD: You must admit that you did more than simply arrive at Pemberley.

Lord Sele: I may have insisted she would marry me. She always used to put on airs and behave quite imperiously. I enjoyed raising her ire when she behaved in such a manner.

LLD: You still enjoy raising her ire, do you not?

Lord Sele: I believe you confuse us with Darcy and his wife. They take great enjoyment in bickering much like my parents. I do enjoy teasing Georgiana—as long as she does not find humour at my expense with my mother. They enjoy themselves far too much.

LLD: You mean to say you can tease her, but she can’t tease you?

Lord Sele: I do not object to her teasing. It is just that she and my mother enjoy making a laugh at my expense their sole occupation when together.

LLD: Do you still wish to marry her?

Lord Sele: I have never desired another for my wife, and I never will. I cannot explain why, but I have craved her notice and her attention for as long as I can remember. I am afraid that in my quest to gain her society, I behaved in a less than gallant fashion when I was in my youth. I fear she remembers those instances more than the last time we met.

LLD: But you were young, weren’t you?

Lord Sele: I was twelve and she was eight when she kicked me in the shin.

LLD: You know, after hearing the story, I’m not certain I blame her for kicking you.

Lord Sele: I must disagree with you. I did naught to deserve it on that occasion, though I am certain my behaviour on other occasions merited my punishment so I do not hold the offence against her.

LLD: You have lived in Ireland for the last few years?

Lord Sele: I moved to an estate that is part of the Lindsey estate after I graduated Oxford. I remained most of the year, returning only for my mother’s birthday and Christmas each year. Of course, I also journeyed home when my father became exceedingly ill. We are fortunate he survived.

LLD: Did you return to England only to see your parents?

Lord Sele: I knew Georgiana would be nearing the age of her coming out. I returned to spend the Christmas season with my parents, but I remained long enough to discover whether Georgiana would have her début. When I learnt she remained at Pemberley, I returned to Ireland to continue overseeing the mining there.

LLD: What did you think when you first laid eyes upon Georgiana after all these years?

Lord Sele: I recognised her instantly. She has changed of course—matured. She was lovely when last I saw her at fourteen, but she has become a stunning woman.

LLD: When you first spoke, was she pleased to see you?

Lord Sele: While I would have wished her to throw her arms about my neck and pledge her undying love, she was particularly reticent in my company.

LLD: She called your manner of courtship dogged persistence when I interviewed her. Would you agree?

Lord Sele: One could call her resistance to my overtures a dogged reluctance then. (Shakes his head) She was so determined she would never marry. I knew she could be a wilful woman, but I never imagined . . . well, I suppose your readers shall see.

LLD: What do you love most about Georgiana?

Lord Sele: Her loyalty to those she loves is her most attractive quality. She has a gentle and forgiving heart as well. It is her heart that mine attached itself to when we were but children and it is her heart that will be bound to mine forever. I cannot change that fact, and I would never wish to.

I think that’s a great place to end things. Thank you, Lord Sele, for taking the time to speak with me about your life and Georgiana! Thanks again to Janet for hosting us!

Blurb: She swore would never marry!

Georgiana Darcy is a lady with a secret! The last thing she wants is to return to London, but what else can she do when her brother and his wife make plans to spend the Christmas season in town. When Lizzy’s youngest sister, Lydia, joins them, Georgiana gains a confidante, but will Lydia’s outgoing nature cause problems when Lord Sele, son of a family friend reappears in Georgiana’s life?

As an insufferable boy, Lord Sele vowed he would marry Georgiana, but was his return from Ireland a coincidence or was his sole purpose to pursue her? He admits to desiring friendship, but Lydia is determined his desire is Georgiana and she will stop at nothing to see her best friend happily settled.

What is Georgiana to do when faced with the society she has managed to avoid for her entire adult life as well as the one man determined to change her mind about marriage? Will she be able to overcome her fears despite the spectre from the past that seems to be haunting her? Will she be forced to tell her secret and choose happiness or will someone from her past ruin everything?

Bio:

L.L. Diamond is more commonly known as Leslie to her friends and Mom to her three kids. A native of Louisiana, she spent the majority of her life living within an hour of New Orleans before following her husband all over as a military wife. Louisiana, Mississippi, California, Texas, New Mexico, Nebraska, and now England have all been called home along the way.

After watching Sense and Sensibility with her mother, Leslie became a fan of Jane Austen, reading her collected works over the next few years. Pride and Prejudice stood out as a favourite and has dominated her writing since finding Jane Austen Fan Fiction.

Aside from mother and writer, Leslie considers herself a perpetual student. She has degrees in biology and studio art, but will devour any subject of interest simply for the knowledge. Her most recent endeavours have included certifications to coach swimming as well as a fitness instructor. As an artist, her concentration is in graphic design, but watercolour is her medium of choice with one of her watercolours featured on the cover of her second book, A Matter of Chance. She is also a member of the Jane Austen Society of North America. Leslie also plays flute and piano, but much like Elizabeth Bennet, she is always in need of practice!

Leslie’s books include: Rain and Retribution, A Matter of Chance, An Unwavering Trust, The Earl’s Conquest, Particular Intentions, and Particular Attachments.

The Particular Attachments Blog Tour:

September 8: Just Jane 1813 – Review

September 9: Babblings of a Bookworm – Character Interview

September 11: From Pemberley to Milton – Excerpt

September 12: More Agreeably Engaged – Character Interview

September 13: Austenesque Reviews – Outtake

September 14: Austen Variations – Release Day Post and Giveaway

September 15: Just Jane 1813 – Character Interview

September 16: My Jane Austen Book Club – Outtake

September 17: My Vices and Weaknesses - Excerpt

*****

Oh, Ms. Diamond, I did love reading your interview with Nathaniel. It was my pleasure to host the two of you. If any of you, Dear Readers, have not read the interview with Georgiana, stop by Ceri's at Babblings of a Bookworm and enjoy. You'll be glad you did! How fun to have their interviews where we can enjoy the thoughts and insights of each character. I love it! Thank you! 

I'm so glad you stopped by on your busy blog tour. I wish you the best with this new release and look forward to adding it to my library. I have enjoyed all your books and am confident I will love this one too. 

Good news, Readers! There is a giveaway! Leave us a comment and one of you can win an eBook copy of Particular Attachments! The giveaway is international and ends on the 17th of September at 11:59 P. M. Good luck to all and don't forget to visit all the stops of the tour for Particular Attachments! Best Wishes, L. L. Diamond, and please visit again soon.

A Less Agreeable Man...Maria Grace

Available at AmazonAmazon

First of all, Maria, I'm so relieved to know you and your family are safe and that your house didn't flood either. You have been in my thoughts and prayers. With all the devastation everywhere in the area, I know you must be terribly thankful. I did hear that you had to evacuate your home. I bet that was unnerving and scary. I cannot imagine the fear of returning and not knowing what you would find when you arrived. I'm sure the point that overrides everything...you're safe! We are thankful too.

It is such a pleasure to have Maria Grace visit More Agreeably Engaged. I always look forward to the delightful posts that she does. This one is no exception. It has to do with chocolate...hot chocolate to be exact! Yumm! Enjoy! 

Welcome back, Maria!

*****

Specialized China

Sometimes it’s the little details that can make a scene come alive.  Period appropriate food and drive are one place what that happens for me, so I like to include that in scenes wherever I can.

During the regency era, there were three particular luxury drinks: tea, coffee and chocolate. They were in high demand, but expensive to acquire and, in the case of chocolate, difficult to make. Now of course luxury drinks needed accessories to go with them, just like our iphones need fancy cases—gotta show off the bling, right? 

Proper hostesses would do exactly that with specialized cups and pots for each beverage. The differences between the pieces were not random though, they was based on the way the drinks were created and enjoyed. Rather scientific if you think about it.

Drinking chocolate was often prepared in a large saucepan and then poured into special pots, known in France as a chocolatière, designed just for serving it. At first, when chocolate was a luxury limited to only the most elite, chocolate pots were made exclusively of silver with fine hardwoods or ivory used for the finials. In the early 1700’s, porcelain chocolate pots were made in China for export to Europe. Later, sturdier (and less expensive) pots were made of pewter or earthenware.

Chocolate pots tended to be tall and relatively slender, looking a lot like coffee pots, but with a few significant differences in the lid, the spout and the handle.

Drinking chocolate was very thick and tended to settle, so it was essential to continue whipping it with the molinet. To accommodate the molinet, a chocolate pot had a very distinct lid. The top of a chocolate pot had a hole for the molinet handle to extend from, allowing the hostess to stir the chocolate without splashing herself or her guests. The hole might remain uncovered, but in many cases a special hinged or swiveling finial would cap the hole and help preserve the heat in the chocolate. Sometimes the finial might be attached by a chain to the pot so it would not get lost.

Spouts on chocolate pots were wide and set high on the pot. Both qualities relate to the froth on the top of the chocolate. Since the froth floats on top of the chocolate, locating the spout high helps to capture the foam. Similarly, a wide spout facilitates getting it into a serving cup.

A high spout also helps to keep the undesirable sediments that settled to the bottom out of the serving cups.

The earliest chocolate pots had handles set at right angles to the pot. Usually these were made of wood, with a bit of a knob at the end. After the later part of the 1730’s chocolate pots with looping handles in line with the pouring spout were produced.

Drinking chocolate was thick, even syrupy, very different from tea or coffee. Its thickness, and the need to preserve the froth on top meant that special cups were required to properly enjoy sipping the chocolate through the milky froth on top. Here's where it gets particularly interesting--to me at least.

Chocolate cups were taller and narrower than coffee or tea cups. This would force the foam into a thick layer on the top and keep it from dispersing so quickly. Their unique shape also gave them a high center of gravity, which in English means it made them more likely to spill, especially if one's hands were less than steady.

That problem gave rise to a whole new style of china.

The trembleuse or tasse trembleuse originated in Paris in the 1690's and was designed to allow those with trembling hands to drink with greater ease. It consisted of a cup, often with a lid and two handles, and a saucer with ether a deep well or a raised rim that steadied the cup and kept it from tipping.

In contrast, teapots tend to be short and stout (remember the kids’ song?)  The round shape allows room for the tea to move in the pot, allowing it to seep more effectively. Their short spouts come from the center of the pot and sometimes have a grate behind to keep the tea leaves from clogging the spout.  The short length makes them easier to clean if leaves get trapped inside the spout.

Because tea steeps near boiling, it must be slightly cooled before drinking. A tea cup has a wide open rim that tapers down to a smaller base and a handle designed to hook a single finger, all purposed to help cool the tea and prevent burns.

In many ways, coffee serving pieces do the opposite. Coffee pots are designed to help maintain the heat of the beverage, which preserves its flavor. The taller, narrow shape helps minimize heat loss. The longer, low-mounted spout helps keep cool air from circulating into the pot.

On the other hand, coffee tastes best when served hot. Since it brews at around 180F, burns are not as much a concern as keeping the beverage hot. So coffee cups have a more vertical, cylindrical shape and bigger handles to accommodate two or three fingers which helps them conserve the beverage's temperature.

A proper regency hostess would have had all three sorts of china in her collection and been able to identify these pots at just a glance. In all likelihood, she would not have considered serving chocolate from anything but a chocolate pot. For the rest of us though, chocolate served from another sort of pot would still be chocolate, right? And that has to be a very good thing indeed.

References

Deitz, Paula. "Chocolate Pots Brewed Ingenuity." The New York Times. February 18, 1989. Accessed May 24, 2017. http://www.nytimes.com/1989/02/19/arts/antiques-chocolate-pots-brewed-ingenuity.html.

Kane, Kathryn. "Regency Chocolate:   The Correct Accoutrements." The Regency Redingote. August 02, 2011. Accessed May 24, 2017. https://regencyredingote.wordpress.com/2011/05/20/regency-chocolate-the-correct-accoutrements/. 

Righthand, Jess. "A Brief History of the Chocolate Pot." Smithsonian.com. February 13, 2015. Accessed May 24, 2017. http://www.smithsonianmag.com/smithsonian-institution/brief-history-chocolate-pot-180954241/.

*****

Here’s a peek at a scene featuring a bit of morning chocolate:

The morning room faced east, sunlight pouring in through two large windows onto blue-green walls. Flower vases stood on dark painted half-tables in three corners, filled with sweet-smelling garden flowers. The chairs around the table bore floral embroidered cushions, and a still-life painting of flowers hung over the flower-painted sideboard.  At least flowers were not as garish as an overabundance of ormolu.

Mary looked up from her seat near the windows, the letters she had brought with her from Rosings tucked into the ribbon-tied notebook on her lap. Charlotte settled into the seat at the round table nearest the door. Mrs. Hill trundled in a few moments later with a pot of chocolate and fresh toast, nearly burnt. Neither the overcooked toast nor the bland chocolate were to Mary’s taste, but it seemed the kitchen had no coffee, so she drank the chocolate anyway.

Longbourn had a lovely set of chocolate cups, commissioned lately by the previous owner’s wife. The saucers sported little braided rails to support the tall, narrow cups covered in blue and yellow flowers, with gold-overlaid lids. They were a bit fancy to Mary, but pleased Charlotte very much.

Mrs. Hill handed Charlotte a tattered-around-the-edges leather-bound journal to review—the household accounts and menus for the next week.

“Pray come sit with me, Mary, and help me examine these. I do so value your opinions.” Charlotte poured a second cup of chocolate and pointed to the chair beside her.

Mary refolded her letter and tucked it and her pencil into her notebook and tied the dainty ivory ribbon around it. Charlotte raised her eyebrow.

Yes, the hint was a bit obvious, but they had been in close quarters recently. Hopefully a few subtle gestures would help change that.

Charlotte pulled the chair beside her out just a bit. “What do you think of the morning room?”

“Very charming and, if you will forgive me, more agreeable than the one in the parsonage. Perhaps simply because, here you are free to arrange things to your liking.” Mary set her notebook on the table and rose.

“It is a pleasing situation, I must agree. Would you believe though, I am reluctant to alter anything, wondering what Lady Catherine would say if I did?”

Mary chuckled as she sat in the chair Charlotte insisted she use. “I can well imagine, but I think it is safe to say, Lady Catherine is unlikely to arrive unexpectedly and offer her opinions on your housekeeping.”

Charlotte’s face fell. “I feel sorry for her. How difficult it must be to lose a child. I have been a mother only a month, and yet …”

Pray not this maudlin discussion again! “I am sure such thoughts cannot be at all beneficial to you.”

“Forgive me. Surely, you have no desire for such mawkish companionship.”

She was right.

“Do not be so hard on yourself.” Mary forced a smile. Hopefully that would not encourage her to continue.

Charlotte sipped her chocolate and spread jam on her toast. “Tell me, what do you think of what Hill has brought me?” She pushed the book toward Mary.

Did she believe it escaped Mary’s notice that she had not even looked at it herself? Mary pressed her eyes with her thumb and forefinger and held her breath, so she would not sigh.

Hill had a neat hand and kept her accounts well. Mary leafed through several pages—each supplier had a set of dedicated section. Six years of butcher’s orders took four pages. The prior Longbourn family seemed to have a taste for pork.

And a taste for sweets.

But that was not what Charlotte was asking. No, she wanted to know what style of housekeeping she would be expected to maintain in order to be considered appropriate for a house such as this. Why did she not consult with her mother on the matter?

Just why was Charlotte Collins asking such questions of Mary Bennet rather than Lady Lucas? Check out A Less Agreeable Man for the answers.

*****

Dull, plain and practical, Mary Bennet was the girl men always overlooked. Nobody thought she’d garner a second glance, much less a husband. But she did, and now she’s grateful to be engaged to Mr. Michaels, the steady, even tempered steward of Rosings Park. By all appearances, they are made for each other, serious, hard-working, and boring.

Michaels finds managing Rosings Park relatively straight forward, but he desperately needs a helpmeet like Mary, able to manage his employers: the once proud Lady Catherine de Bourgh who is descending into madness and her currently proud nephew and heir, Colonel Fitzwilliam, whose extravagant lifestyle has left him ill-equipped for economy and privation.

Colonel Fitzwilliam had faced cannon fire and sabers, taken a musket ball to the shoulder and another to the thigh, stood against Napoleon and lived to tell of it, but barking out orders and the point of his sword aren’t helping him save Rosings Park from financial ruin. Something must change quickly if he wants to salvage any of his inheritance. He needs help, but Michaels is tedious and Michaels’ fiancée, the opinionated Mary Bennet, is stubborn and not to be borne. 

Apparently, quiet was not the same thing as meek, and reserved did not mean mild. The audacity of the woman, lecturing him on how he should manage his barmy aunt. The fact that she is usually right doesn’t help. Miss Bennet gets under his skin, growing worse by the day until he finds it very difficult to remember that she's engaged to another man.  

Can order be restored to Rosings Park or will Lady Catherine’s madness ruin them all?   

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*****

About the Author

Though Maria Grace has been writing fiction since she was ten years old, those early efforts happily reside in a file drawer and are unlikely to see the light of day again, for which many are grateful. After penning five file-drawer novels in high school, she took a break from writing to pursue college and earn her doctorate in Educational Psychology. After 16 years of university teaching, she returned to her first love, fiction writing.

She has one husband and one grandson, two graduate degrees and two black belts, three sons, four undergraduate majors, five nieces, is starting her sixth year blogging on Random Bits of Fascination, has built seven websites, attended eight English country dance balls, sewn nine Regency era costumes, and shared her life with ten cats.

She can be contacted at:

author.MariaGrace@gmail.com

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*****

Well, I would like to know the answer to that question myself! Just why was Charlotte asking Mary Bennet? Hmmm? The excerpt was lovely and very appropriate, but posed more questions than it answered. (Guess that's what it is supposed to do) The blurb has me quite intrigued. It sounds as if the Colonel may be struggling with feelings for Mary! I must find some time to read this sooner rather than later! 

Thank you, Maria Grace, for visiting and sharing the wonders of chocolate, china, tea, and coffee. It was interesting reading but then your posts always are! :) 

Now it's giveaway time! There is one eBook of A Less Agreeable Man to give away and the giveaway is international! What do you think of chocolate and the special china? Why do you think Charlotte is asking Mary for information on the household accounts and menus? Questions, questions, and more questions. Well, one of you will have the chance to find the answers. Leave us your comments to have a chance to win. Don't forget your contact info. Good luck to each of you. The giveaway will end at 11:59 PM on the 10th of September!

By Reason, by Reflection, by Everything...P.O. Dixon

Available on AmazonAmazon

It is my great pleasure to welcome P. O. Dixon back to More Agreeably Engaged. I always love having her visit and it has been too long since the last time she dropped by. Ms. Dixon comes today sharing an intriguing excerpt from her latest release, By Reason, by Reflection, by Everything.  She also tells us a bit about the book to entice us even more! :) It certainly enticed me! Thank you, P. O., for continuing to write such lovely books. 

*****

I’m so happy to visit More Agreeably Engaged to share an excerpt from my new release, By Reason, by Reflection, by Everything. A thousand thanks for having me here, Janet. It’s always a great pleasure.

About the Book

Promised to one sister. Bewitched by the other. And thus, Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy’s dilemma. Who else but Miss Elizabeth Bennet might possibly bewitch Mr. Darcy? This begs the question: to whom is the gentleman promised?

We all know it was the favorite wish of Darcy’s mother, Lady Anne, as well as her sister, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, that their children were intended for each other. By Reason. By Reflection, by Everything poses the question: what if the elder Mr. Darcy had a favorite wish of his own? What if his first-born son was promised to Mr. Bennet’s first-born daughter? 

Enjoy!

Excerpt (Reprinted with Author’s Permission. All Rights Reserved.)

Chapter 8 – Unsisterly-like Sentiments

After walking along for a time, relishing in what felt like her own private sanctuary, Elizabeth examined her watch. Much to her dismay, she had walked longer than she had intended. Much longer, she considered as she spun round on her heels and proceeded to return to the manor house.

What will the Darcys think of me, should I fail to make an appearance at breakfast this morning? Exploring the grounds had occupied her so thoroughly that upon coming to a fork in the wooded path, Elizabeth was not entirely certain she knew which direction would lead her back to where she meant to be.

She was just about to strike out on the path to her left when the sound of horse steps drew her attention. Turning, she espied Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy. She knew not whether he was simply out enjoying an early morning ride or if he had come in search of her. He dismounted. Taking the horse by its reins in his gloved hand, he stopped a short distance from where Elizabeth stood and bowed slightly.

“Miss Elizabeth,” said the gentleman, his melodic voice accompanied by his brooding stare which sent a frisson of anticipation through her body.

All too aware that these were the first two words he had uttered to her since making his acquaintance, Elizabeth’s stomach fluttered a bit. She did not dare admit how the sound of his voice made her quiver inside. Besides, to whom would she make such a telling confession? Certainly not to Jane. He was, after all, Jane’s prospective suitor.

“Mr. Darcy,” she said, curtsying. “Pray I have not caused you to come all this way in search of me.”

“No,” he said.

His taciturn manner in addition to his gaze left her feeling a bit uneasy.

“I was enjoying a morning walk,” she announced, more eagerly than she had intended.

“Do you often ramble about during the early morning hours to parts unknown?” The look he bestowed spoke volumes. “Alone, no less,” he added.

“I am very fond of walking, sir.”

“Indeed.”

Her courage rising in the wake of what she perceived as chastisement, she responded, “Are you judging me, Mr. Darcy?”

“Judging you? No. Questioning you? Indeed. I would go further to caution you to be more prudent in your choice of paths—that is until you are more familiar with Pemberley Woods.”

“I shall take your words under advisement, sir.” And with that, she abruptly turned on her heels with the intention of returning to the manor house, preferably alone. It simply would not do to spend too much time with the gentleman so certain was she that if she were not careful, she might grow afraid of him. That would never do.

“Where are you going?” Darcy inquired. “If you do not mind my asking.”

“No, I do not mind your asking, sir. I am returning to the manor house before my continued absence arouses my family’s concern.”

“Then might I suggest you choose the path to the right, Miss Elizabeth. I have it on good authority that it leads directly to the manor house.”

She arched her brow. “Are you laughing at me?”

“I would not dare. In fact, if you will allow me to be of service, I will be more than happy to escort you.”

“I do not believe that is necessary,” she said. In fact, the last thing she wanted was to be seen with him. Heaven forbid if that jealous Miss Bingley were to begin thinking she had yet another competitor for the gentleman’s attention.

“If you are concerned about what others will think if the two of us were to be seen walking together at this hour, then you need not be. You are perfectly safe with me.”

I suppose that is a matter of opinion, she thought but did not say.

In response to her silence, he said, “I am more than happy to offer you my steed. I will walk.”

“Oh! Heaven forbid, sir. Even if I were inclined to ride your horse, which I absolutely am not, I would never dream of inconveniencing you in such a manner.”

“Trust me, it is no inconvenience at all. Allow me to assist you,” Mr. Darcy offered.

If Elizabeth did not know better, she would have sworn the gentleman was flirting with her. How in the world did he expect to assist her in any way that would not result in more familiarity than ought to be allowed between two people so wholly unconnected as the two of them?

“Sir, you are very kind,” she said coolly. “However, as I said, I am not inclined to ride horseback.” Wanting to offer him a reasonable explanation, she went on to say, “You see, Mr. Darcy, I am not a horsewoman. Indeed, I never learned to ride.”

Darcy laughed a little at this confession. His spirits rising to playfulness, he threw a furtive glance over his shoulder as if looking to see if anyone was about. “Pray do not let my aunt Lady Catherine hear you say such a thing. You know how concerned she is about your having no governess.”

Elizabeth laughed a little too in recollection of her ladyship’s outrage. “Indeed. But you need not worry that all the Bennet daughters have been remiss in that regard. My sister Jane is an excellent horsewoman, as I am certain you will discover over the coming days and weeks.”

His manner suddenly cool and grave, he said, “No doubt.” Just as quickly, he resumed his former attitude just a bit. “Still there is the matter of your expeditious return to the manor house. I really would be honored if you would allow me to accompany you. There is much I would enjoy discussing with you.”

“About my sister Jane,” Elizabeth said with some enthusiasm.

Darcy nodded a little. “Indeed.”

Disguise of any sort was Darcy’s abhorrence. The secret that he was keeping from everyone, even his closest friend the colonel, about his father’s ailing health and the fact that he was pretending to give some consideration to marriage caused him no small measure of discomfort. He took some comfort in the fact that he was not entirely dishonest in urging his companion to allow him to accompany her back to the manor house. If discussing her elder sister was the means of accomplishing his goal of spending time with Miss Elizabeth, then far be it from him to do otherwise. What better way to satisfy his own increasing curiosity about her.

“You mentioned that your sister - that Miss Bennet - is an excellent horsewoman and yet you do not ride horses at all. Why is that, if I might ask?”

“Unlike me, Jane never witnessed another person being tossed from a horse and sustaining a debilitating injury.”

The two exchanged looks, hers laced with a semblance of the pain she suffered at the time and his filled with empathy.

“I am sorry you had to suffer such an unpleasant experience, Miss Elizabeth.”

“Sir, you are very kind. However, that was many years ago, and I am only reminded of it when in proximity to one of those fierce creatures.” Here she glanced over her shoulder. She bit her lower lip.

Seeing this, Darcy ceased his step and approached his horse. He whispered in the beast’s ear and then secured the reins to its saddle. Seconds later, the fierce animal was on its way - racing ahead. Alone.

Removing his gloves one by one and then clasping his hands behind his back, Darcy said, “How is that, Miss Elizabeth?”

Her spirits rising to playfulness, she said, “Again, sir, you are far too kind to me.”

“As you are my guest, I hope you will find that I am more than happy to do whatever it takes to be of service to you,” Darcy said. “You and your sister,” he added, smiling.

If Elizabeth secretly delighted in admiring his brooding mien, seeing him smile really stole her breath away. Indeed, she had seen him smile a time or two the evening before but not like this. My sister Jane is a most fortunate woman, she reminded herself.

Allowing her mind to wander, she wondered what it would be like if that particular smile of his was meant for her alone. How fortunate it would be if she were the woman who garnered his esteem.

No, I must not allow myself to think this way, else it will be a very long, hot and tumultuous summer, at the end of which this man might be my brother.

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Oh, I did enjoy that excerpt! What do you think, Dear Readers? Do you want to know more? I certainly do. If Miss Bingley is at Pemberley, then Charles must be too. I'm wondering about the tangled web that Ms. Dixon may be spinning! Questions, questions, and more questions! One of you lucky readers will get the chance to discover what lies ahead for beloved couple. Yes, that is correct. P. O. Dixon is giving away one eBook of By Reason, by Reflection, by Everything and the giveaway is international. Please have your share in the conversation and tell us what you think. Have you read this book yet? Be sure and leave your contact info. The giveaway will end at 11:59 PM on the 4th of September. Good luck to all.

Thank you for having the giveaway Ms. Dixon, and I do hope you will come back soon.

A More Engaging Guest Review...The Journey Home

Today, I am doing a first for More Agreeably Engaged! I have a guest reviewer! Yes, that's right. Sophia Rose is sharing her review of the novella, The Journey Home: A 1932 Sidequel, by Karen M. Cox. Sophia, thank you so much for your willingness to visit and tell us your thoughts. I love having you here as a guest vs. a commenter! :) 

*****

The Journey Home by Karen Cox

#1.5 ‘1932’

Historical Romance, Austenesque

Publisher:  Pronoun

Published:  8.1.17

Pages:  115

Rating: 4.5

Format: eARC

Source:  Author

Sellers:  Amazon

              Barnes& Noble

              Kobo

GoodReads:  

Blurb:

Georgiana Darcy has left girlhood far behind her. A young, single mother with two small daughters, she escaped a precarious existence. Now she has returned to her ancestral home, ready to rebuild her life. Her brother, William, welcomed her with open arms and helped her back on her feet. But home is more than a place—it’s a state of mind, and Georgiana has a journey of the heart ahead of her. As her brother falls in love with Elizabeth, the new girl in town, Georgiana finds herself drawn to William’s long-time friend, Sheriff Richard Fitzwilliam, a widower fifteen years her senior. Richard would never want her, or so she believes, but when he’s near, her sorrow vanishes. When Georgiana’s past comes roaring back to haunt her, can Richard and his kind, gentle ways help see her through?
The Journey Home, a companion piece to the award-winning novel 1932, is a stand-alone “sidequel” novella—a story of self-discovery, acceptance, and romance that details one woman’s journey back from despair and forward to her future.

Review:

Starting over after a terrible mistake, a young single mother attempts to get past her shame and guilt while rearing her young girls and watching her stalwart and serious older brother find love.  She doesn't see her own inner strength and worth though she has learned to love again and this time, he's a man worthy of her love.

This gently-paced parallel story to the original Pride & Prejudice other historical era retelling, 1932, was a sweet and heartwarming follow-up giving a few of 1932's important and engaging side characters their own story. 

Georgiana narrates from her first person perspective.  The way she is developed as a character drew out my deeper emotions.  I adored her and her children and I really wanted her to get her own second chance at happiness.

The author cleverly wraps this story around and through '1932' with William and Elizabeth's story set in Kentucky farmlands of the 1930's so that this works best with that story being read ahead of time, but can also stand alone as its own independent piece.

It's novella-length and reads swiftly, but it doesn't chintz on the development of plot or characters.  The writing was superb and the heartwarming, redemptive tones were lovely.  I finished this one with a smile of satisfaction.  I can easily recommend it to those who love sweet historical romance retellings and variations, but particularly Austenesque lovers.

My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Author’s Bio:

Karen M Cox is an award-wining author of four novels accented with romance and history: 1932,
Originally from Everett, WA, Karen now lives in Central Kentucky with her husband, where she works as a pediatric speech pathologist, encourages her children, and spoils her granddaughter. Like Austen’s Emma, Karen has many hobbies and projects she doesn’t quite finish, but like Elizabeth Bennet, she aspires to be a great reader and an excellent walker.

Find Wonder in All Things, At the Edge of the Sea, and Undeceived. She also wrote “Northanger Revisited 2015”, which appeared in the anthology Sun-Kissed: Effusions of Summer, and "I, Darcy," a short story in The Darcy Monologues. Her latest work is an ebook novella, published August 1, 2017, entitled The Journey Home, a stand-alone companion piece to her debut novel "1932."

Author’s Social Media Links:

Facebook

GoodReads

Twitter:  @KarenMCox1932

Website

Sophia’s Bio:

Sophia is a quiet though curious gal who dabbles in cooking, book reviewing, and gardening.

Encouraged and supported by an incredible man and loving family. A Northern Californian transplant to the Great Lakes Region of the US. Lover of Jane Austen, Baseball, Cats, Scooby Doo, and Chocolate.

 *****

Thank you, Sophia, for sharing your thoughts about The Journey Home. I am enticed to read this one by Karen Cox. Good review! If any of you have read it, what are your thoughts? We would love for you to have your share in the conversation. 

It has been great having you as a guest reviewer, Sophia. Let's do this again!

Sharon Lathan...Vocabulary Rocks!

Sharon Lathan visits today and gives us a bit of a vocabulary lesson. It is quite fun and I think you will all enjoy it. See if there is anything you didn't know. This 'word' lesson came about from researching her latest novels, The Darcy Saga Prequel Duo. The newest is Darcy & Elizabeth: Hope of the Future. Volume one is Darcy & Elizabeth: A Season of Courtship.

It has been a long time since Sharon Lathan has visited my blog and I'm glad to have her return. Please join me in welcoming her back to More Agreeably Engaged.

From Troth to Spousage: Vocabulary Rocks!

Thank you, Janet, for welcoming me to your awesome blog today! It is always a joy to share a new novel with, hopefully, new readers. What would authors do without lovely ladies willing to host us on their websites?

My newest novel — Darcy & Elizabeth: Hope of the Future — is the second (and final) volume of the Darcy Saga Prequel Duo. Together with volume one — Darcy & Elizabeth: A Season of Courtship — I went backwards, as it were, from my eight-book Darcy Saga Sequel series, which began on the wedding night and moved forward in time. With the Prequel Duo, I cover the two-month span from Mr. Darcy’s successful proposal of marriage up to and including the wedding ceremony.

My first order of business in delving into the engagement months was to research the specifics during this period of history in England. As with most aspects of research, particularly when delving into a past over two-hundred years ago, comprehending the terminology is vitally important. As a writer of historical fiction, doing my utmost to ensure the proper, period-appropriate verbiage is essential. Granted, I am writing fiction, so can employ measures of “creative license” here and there—if it isn’t too “creative.” LOL!

Often, I am amazed at words and phrases that feel modern, but end up being ancient. And vice versa. As an avowed language nut, vocabulary is a passion. While it is fun to add the occasional old, now-obsolete word, or period-slang and cant, it is usually better to choose words that are immediately recognizable to a modern reader. On the flip side, picking words or phrases that are too modern—as in did not exist two hundred years ago—is a big no-no. Fortunately, this wasn’t too difficult when it comes to common marriage-related words.

I’ll begin with two word that are the precursor to the formalized promise of marriage. To me, these two words have a slightly modern feel, and the dates are newer, relatively speaking, yet still period appropriate.

Intentions - “one's purposes with regard to courtship and marriage,” by 1796.
Proposal – 1650s, from propose “advance, suggest.” Meaning specific to “an offer of marriage” dating from 1749.

The following words refer to the act of promising to marry (the acceptance of the proposal), as well as the interval between the proposal and the binding vows. By the Regency, troth had become outdated for normal use other than within the marriage vows themselves. Nevertheless, it would have been a familiar word more so than it is today, and is the root of the common betrothed and variants. Affianced, similarly, is a bit unusual as a modern term, but would have been quite common during the Regency.

Troth – Dating to late 12c., from Old English, meaning “faithfulness, veracity, truth, a pledge.” Restricted after the 16c. to certain archaic phrases, such as: plight one's troth.

Betroth - c. 1300, betrouthen, “to promise to marry.” A combination of be- (thoroughly) and troth. From 1560s as a “contract to give a woman in marriage to another; to affiance.” Variants: Betrothed (past particle); Betrothal (act of betrothing, from 1825); Betrothment (earlier variant, from 1580s); and Betrothing (14^th c.)

Affiance - 1520s, “to promise.” From the Old French afiancier “to pledge, promise, give one's word,” from the noun afiance “confidence, trust.” Specifically, “to promise in marriage” attests from the mid-16^th c.

Engage – Dating to the early 12^th c. Old French engagier, meaning “to pledge; bind by promise or oath.” The specific sense of “promise to marry” is from 1610. This use evolved to Engagement, meaning a “formal promise” at roughly the same time, and later in the sense of “the state or period of having entered into a promise of marriage” in 1742.

Courtship – 1570s, “behavior of a courtier.” Meaning “paying court to a woman with intention of marriage” is from 1590s.

When it comes to referring to the promised-to-be-wed person, either the man or the woman, the options are somewhat limited. Betrothed was by far the most common, and was applied to either gender. Phrases such as “my husband/wife-to-be” or “my future groom/bride” were often used, along with the general “my intended.”

Those latter phrases are adequate, and I did use them, but are simply not overly appealing to me. To exclusively use only “betrothed” went against my need to mix up words. Therefore, I confess to stretching the limits and laying claim to creative license in my novels by choosing to sprinkle in “fiancé” and “fiancée.” As noted below, etymologically, neither was likely to have been used in England during the first two decades of the 19^th century. Or if they were, it would have been rare. Personally, I figure an author is within acceptable boundaries in using a word 20-30 years before it is first recorded. Presumably a word was uttered by people long enough to grow common and spread around before anyone wrote it down. Nor can we be certain that the extant recorded source is the first time that word was written. With these points in mind, I believe logic works in my favor. Plus, I simply like the words fiancé and fiancée!

Intended – As in “one’s intended husband or wife,” dates to 1767.

Fiancé – A “man to whom one is betrothed,” by 1826 as a French word in English. From the French fiancé “to betroth” and borrowed from Middle English afiance “confidence, trust, word of honor.” 

Fiancée – A “woman to whom one is betrothed,” by 1837 as a French word in English. From the French fiancée (feminine form of fiancé). Same root found in Latin fidus “faithful,” fides “faith,” and fidare “to trust.”

Moving on to the final stages, that being the ceremony and marriage itself, there seems to be a wealth of possible choices!

Marry - c. 1300, “to give in marriage, to take in marriage.” From Old French marier, and the Latin maritare “to get married; to marry off, to wed, give in marriage; to bring together in marriage.” Married (adj.) – “formally wedded” dating from late 14^th c.

Marriage - c. 1300, “action of marrying, entry into wedlock,” also “state or condition of being husband and wife, matrimony, wedlock.” From Old French mariage “marriage; dowry” (12c.), from Vulgar Latin maritaticum (11c.), from Latin maritatus “to wed, marry, give in marriage.” As in the context of the ceremony itself, “the marriage vows, formal declaration or contract by which two join in wedlock” and also “a wedding, celebration of a marriage; the marriage ceremony” are from late 14c. Marriageable (adj.) – 1550s, from the word marriage + -able. Earlier form Mariable.  

Wed - Old English weddian “to pledge oneself, covenant to do something, vow; betroth, marry,” also “unite (two other people) in a marriage, conduct the marriage ceremony.” From the Proto-Germanic wadi-  “to bet, wager,” and Old Frisian weddia “to promise, pledge.” Related: Wedded, as in “one who has been wed” and Wedlock, “condition of being married.”

Wedding - Old English weddung “state of being wed; pledge, betrothal; action of marrying.” Meaning of “nuptials, ceremony of marriage” is recorded from early 13c. The usual Old English word for the ceremony was bridelope, literally “bridal run,” in reference to conducting the bride to her new home. Wedding Ring is from late 14c. Wedding Cake is recorded from 1640s. Wedding Dress attested from 1779.

Nuptial - late 15c., from Middle French nuptial, or directly from Latin nuptialis “pertaining to marriage.”

Connubial (adj.) – 1650, from Latin connubialis, “pertaining to wedlock.”

Matrimony - c. 1300, from Old French matremoine “matrimony, marriage” and directly from Latin matrimonium “wedlock, marriage.” From the root matrem “mother” + -monium, a suffix signifying “action, state, condition.” Matrimonial (adj.) - mid-15c., from Middle French matrimonial (14c.) and directly from Late Latin matrimonialis.

Common Law - mid-14c., “the customary and unwritten laws of England as embodied in commentaries and old cases,” as opposed to statute law. Phrase common law marriage is attested from 1909.

I threw in the last one mainly to show that the concept of a “common law marriage” was unknown until the modern era. I shall conclude the vocabulary lesson with a few words specific to after the official marriage vows were exchanged. Too bad I missed noting the word “spousage” until writing this blog or I would have worked that one in, just for fun!

Spouse - c. 1200, “a married person, either one of a married pair, but especially a married woman in relation to her husband.” From the Old French spous (fem. spouse) “marriage partner,” a variant of espous/espouse, from Latin sponsus meaning the “bridegroom” as opposed to the feminine sponsa for the “bride.” Both deviations (masculine and feminine) come from spondere “to bind oneself, promise solemnly” and “to make an offering, perform a rite.” Related: Spousal, 1510s “pertaining to marriage,” and Spousage, mid-14^th c. “marriage, wedlock.”

Mate – The general usage of “an associate, fellow, comrade,” dates to mid-14c., with the added sense of “companion” from the late 14c. Meaning “one of a wedded pair” is attested from 1540s.

I hope this exploration of etymology, definitions, and terminology was enlightening. Even if not the word nerd that I am, it is fascinating to learn where words come from and the nuanced meanings as they evolve. Still, whether a lover of etymology or not, everyone loves a romantic story ending with happily ever after, right? I can promise readers will have plenty within the pages of the Darcy Saga novels!

Excerpt from Darcy and Elizabeth: Hope of the Future —

Mr. Darcy sat beside his desk, the tall back of the leather-and-wood chair ending exactly along the line of his shoulders so that all she could easily see was the back of his head. One hand waved over his shoulder, vaguely in the direction of the desk, and his tone was distracted more than harsh, but the dismissal was obvious.

Whatever sunny greeting she might have extended was forgotten, and for several seconds Lizzy stood frozen in the doorway. The weight of the tray restored enough clarity for her to gingerly enter the room, each step closer to the sleek surface of his desk bizarrely mixing her emotions.

Darcy’s head was bent slightly, and Lizzy suspected he was listening to the murmuring voices of Jane and Georgiana drifting through the open window he faced. Fleetingly wondering if he listened for her voice, she soon realized all his focus was on a thick book propped in his lap. It was a ledger of some kind, and he traced one finger down a line of sums written in penmanship Lizzy knew not to be his. He had removed his jacket—a glance noted it on a coat rack in the corner—loosened his cravat, and sat with booted feet propped onto a large ottoman. It was the most relaxed pose she had ever seen him in, despite the fact he was attending to business.

Abruptly, all traces of enthusiasm for her surprise interruption vanished. The sense of imposition compounded. For a panicked moment, she almost dashed from the room, tea tray still in her clutches. Mastering the impulse, she placed the tray quietly on the corner of his desk—praying he did not choose that instant to turn around—and took one step backward before freezing once again.

Mr. Darcy had blindly reached with his free hand to nudge a sovereign-sized wooden ball on his desk. The ball rolled across the flat surface some four inches, smacked into the base of the unlit lamp, ricocheted, and rolled back into his waiting hand. Never glancing away from the ledger in his lap, he repeated the maneuver several times in rapid succession. 

It was astounding! Lizzy stood mesmerized for six or seven precision rolls before the realization that she was engaged in active voyeurism woke her out of the daydream.

A decision was required. Her options were to either slink out the cracked open door or speak up. The urge to do the former remained, yet felt a cowardly move now that she had mastered her initial panic. Elizabeth Bennet was rarely intimidated. After all, she had boldly accosted Mr. Travers with the intent to enter her fiancé’s sanctuary unbidden. If she backed away now, how would she explain it to Miss Darcy and Jane? Or Mr. Travers? The butler was unlikely to inquire directly, but if he saw her scurry away, then he would assume the future Mrs. Darcy was a milksop. That was unacceptable!

The speaking-up option would, of course, prove that she had been spying on him. Being a private, reserved man, Lizzy was honestly unsure how he would react to such an intrusion, even from her. At the end of the mere seconds it took for these thoughts to race through her mind, she observed him in unguarded repose, and it was the returned yearning to be alone with him that impelled her to action.

Dwelling on the possible outcomes no longer, she slipped behind him, squeezed both shoulders, and whispered close to his left ear, “Any guess who this is?”

Perhaps she should have given the matter a tad more thought, she later confessed. 

Mr. Darcy jerked violently, the book tumbling to the carpeted floor with a dull thunk and the wooden ball shooting off the desk. She was fairly sure he swore too, but the precise curse was lost amid her instant laughter and gasping attempts to apologize.

Adding to the ridiculousness, he precipitously swiveled around. Lizzy emitted a squeal along with the gasping giggles, caught utterly off guard by a chair that moved. Still in a bent posture, her jolt of surprise pitched her forward until their noses bumped together, falling into his lap prevented when she locked her elbows and splayed her hands on his chest.

A dozen exclamations, curious questions, and justifications for her behavior skipped across her tongue. None of them were uttered or involved what she impulsively did instead.

She kissed him. Hard.

Darcy and Elizabeth: Hope of the Future (Darcy Saga Prequel Book #2) by Sharon Lathan

Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet will soon be joined in Holy Matrimony!

The initial month of their Season of Courtship has passed. Together, the lovers strengthened their bond through honest communication, as they dealt with adversity, jealousy, and distrust. Ever growing in mutual love and understanding, a dramatic confrontation broke through the final barriers.

Now their Hope of the Future “happily ever after” is assured!

As long as Lady Catherine can be stopped in her scheme to interfere, that is. Or, will Mrs. Bennet’s bad advice ruin future marital felicity? Might increasing liberation lead to overwhelming passions that cannot be controlled, with catastrophe a result?

Continue the journey begun in Darcy and Elizabeth: A Season of Courtship. Delight in their flourishing romance, ride along on their escapades in London, and be a witness at the wedding of the century.

The miraculous design of how Two Shall Become One begins before the sacred vows.

Darcy and Elizabeth: Hope of the Future is Volume 2 of the “prequel duo” for Sharon Lathan’s Darcy Saga sequel series to Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.

Purchasing links—

AmazonKindle and Print   

Barnes &Noble Nook and Print  

Kobo digital  

iBooks digital  

Sharon Lathan bio—

Sharon Lathan is the best-selling author of The Darcy Saga sequel series to Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice. Her first novel, Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: Two Shall Become One, was published in 2009. Sharon’s series of “happily ever after” for the Darcys now totals nine full-length novels and one Christmas themed novella.

Darcy & Elizabeth: A Season of Courtship and Darcy & Elizabeth: Hope of the Future complete the “prequel to the sequel” duo recounting the betrothal months before the Darcy Saga began.

Sharon is a native Californian relocated in 2013 to the green hills of Kentucky, where she resides with her husband of over thirty years. Retired from a thirty-year profession as a registered nurse in Neonatal Intensive Care, Sharon is pursuing her dream as a full-time writer.

Sharon is a member of the Jane Austen Society of North America, JASNA Louisville, the Romance Writers of America (RWA), the Beau Monde chapter of the RWA, and serves as the website manager and on the board of the Louisville Romance Writers chapter of the RWA.

Sharon is the co-creator of Austen Authors, a group blog for authors of Austenesque literary fiction. Visit at:  www.AustenAuthors.com 

Connect with Sharon at the following places— 

Website/blog:  www.SharonLathanAuthor.com
Facebook at Sharon Lathan, Novelist
Twitter @SharonLathan
Pinterest  SharonLathan62

Thanks so much for being my guest, Sharon. I hope you will not wait so long next time to visit again. It's been lovely having you stop by. Your vocabulary lesson was awesome and it was interesting to see where and how many of these words were derived. I loved reading the meanings of all the terms relating to betrothal and marriage. It is a fascinating topic.

I think I'm a bit of a vocabulary nerd myself or was at one time. When I was in college, one of the English courses was Vocabulary. I had heard how tough the class was and decided to take it for the challenge. I worked hard in the class and studied harder but I loved it. To top it off, I made an A for the semester! 

That was a fun excerpt with a fantastic ending! Thank you for sharing with us and enticing us to read more! Best wishes with the Darcy Saga Prequel Duo.

Giveaway: 2 ebook copies (2 winners) of Darcy and Elizabeth: Hope of the Future. The giveaway is international and all you need to do to enter is have your share in the conversation. We invite your thoughts. Giveaway will end at 11:59 PM on the 28th of August. Good luck!

Thank you, Sharon Lathan, for having a giveaway for my readers. I know they are as appreciative as I am.