Tag Archive | Christmas

The Benefits of a Local Writing Group: The Maumee Valley Romance Authors, Inc.

I was struggling the conclusion for this story when my local writing group, the Maumee Valley Romance Authors Inc., gathered for our annual Brainstorming weekend. Each year we rent a lakeside cottage in September and spend the weekend writing and helping each other “brainstorm” plot twists and other issues with our stories. And have fun socializing as well. The absolute best part is that we go away inspired and empowered to keep getting our stories out into the world. It’s a small group, but a very committed and supportive one.

I’d been working on Della’s story for quite some time, but never had a clear idea of how to end it, other than my heroine and hero ending up together, probably at the Christmas Ball. But how to manage it? I won’t give away everything, but my writer friends helped me come up with an idea involving an embroidered heart. Their encouragement and suggestions helped ME recall an embroidered heart given to me by my grandmother when I was about sixteen. It was meant to be a ring pillow for my wedding, but since I never married, I just kept it as a reminder of her. (She died two years later and I still miss her today.)*

Other scenes in the book came into being with the help of my writer friends, as well as the title. I finished the story within two weeks of returning home from Brainstorming, and I owe it all to them and their support.

*My sister got one of these too, and when she read Della’s Christmas Gift, she immediately recognized the source of the inspiration.

Here’s our MVRAI Book Lovers group if you’re interested in discussing books and authors with us!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/251624704125214

Our History

The group has been around for 30 or so years, most of these as a chapter of the Romance Writers of America. Several of our members have been around since the beginning. Eventually, we formed our own independent group, as many other chapters have. We are a small but fierce and supportive group of writers of assorted genres, mostly romance. We are actually celebrating three new members this month in this photo of our Christmas party at the Whitehouse Inn. (I’m the one with the pink hair!)

I joined in 2012 after I retired and decided I wanted to pursue my lifelong dream of writing in my senior years (as opposed to becoming a couch potato). It seemed to me that nearly everyone in the group had been working really hard to improve their writing and get their stories published. Some had received over 100 rejections, but that didn’t stop them! Oddly enough, I found that encouraging. I knew I could write stuff, and I knew what I wanted to write (after having read thousands of historical romances over the years), but every issue of Writer’s Digest had convinced me that my chances of publishing a book were about the same as being struck by lightning. True, self-publishing was becoming a thing, but I figured I had a long way to go before my writing was good enough to publish.

It turns out that I joined the group just at the moment when group members started getting acceptances! Jill Kemerer, who had been working four years for her goal of getting an agent and writing for Harlequin’s Love Inspired line, finally succeeded. She just received an award from Harlequin for publishing 25 books with them! Constance Phillips, Shay Lacy, Ray Wenck, and others got acceptances too. My first story, Treasuring Theresa, was accepted within three days of submission!

Publication isn’t the end of the story, though. Even after publishing multiple books, we are constantly aware that we don’t know it all. We support each other through the tough times. We study writing craft topics, marketing and promotion (which keep changing every day), discuss plot issues (at the brainstorming event and by text), and just become great friends. Marilynn Rice became a great travel partner; we have such a good time together!

We meet monthly in the Toledo area. A potential member may attend two meetings prior to joining, and then must decide. http://www.mvrai.com/p/meetings.html

Our First Group Anthology… and it’s Christmas!

Shay Lacy: This Christmas romance gives a whole new meaning to “set their hearts on fire”. A Fiery Flamingo Christmas.

Denise Lynn: Will her husband remember her touch in time for Christmas? Christmas Memories.

Constance Phillips: Can Jack and Kayson reclaim Christmas for their newsly formed family. Family Reclaimed.

Mila Winters: She’s no cougar, but he makes her want to roar. What’s a woman to do with this Christmas present? What She Wants for Christmas.

Amazon

Apologies… and Della’s Gown for the Lauds’ Christmas Ball

Dec7

Apologies!

For anyone who ordered A Christmas Quintet on Amazon and received the wrong book, Amazon has advised us to (1) Ask for a refund on the order page and (2) if that doesn’t work, call 888-280-4331. Simply explain that you purchased the book, it was the wrong book, the book is no longer on your Kindle, and you require a refund.

The correct book is available at [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DPNMGWV5] at the same price.

We humbly apologize for the error and the inconvenience it has caused you.

We are still working on a solution with other vendors.

Della’s Gown for the Lauds’ Christmas Ball

You may know that I am an avid collector of fashion prints. I have a ton of them! When I was writing Della’s Christmas Gift, I started looking around for a ball gown for her to wear at the Lauds’ Christmas Ball in 1801. This is the one I chose for her. You can read about it in this excerpt:

Madame Celeste Modiste

Leicester, Leicestershire

12 December 1801

“Well, I do think the white satin trimmed in gold would become you well, Della, with your dark hair. White is the fashionable color these days. Mama says white is the only appropriate color for young girls to wear in the evening.”

Helena held up the shimmering fabric against Della’s chest while an employee obligingly carried the remainder of the bolt.

“I told you I shan’t wear white,” Della insisted, pushing the fabric away. “White isn’t even a color. I prefer the lavender sarcenet.”

Stepping off the small stool, she selected the lavender bolt and held it under her face in front of the mirror.

Helena took a step back and studied her for a moment. “I must say, it does flatter your coloring. Perhaps with a delicate white handkerchief tied about the neck.”

Della frowned at the white handkerchief idea, but eventually agreed that white was the best trim color for the dress. Necklines for evening were lower than she was accustomed to, and she wasn’t eager to show off too much décolletage. She found her full breasts somewhat embarrassing, not to mention inconvenient when she was out tending the stock. She was secretly envious of Helena’s more elegant figure that better suited the current styles. Her bosoms didn’t jiggle when she moved quickly or danced, nor was she ogled by members of the male sex wherever she went.

After hearing her grumble about this, Helena laughed. “My dear, you don’t know how many young ladies envy your-er-fullness.” She glanced down at her own meager chest. “Mama kept telling me mine would fill out in time, but I haven’t seen evidence of it so far, and I’m a full year older than you are.”

Della’s eyes widened. “But… why? They are so… unwieldy! I’ve tried binding them to my chest, but it’s not at all comfortable, and Thomas and the farmhands laugh at me behind my back.”

A shocked gasp came from behind her. “Oh mademoiselle, you must never do such a thing again! You have lovely high bosoms that should be cherished and prized, even exploited!”

Madame Celeste grinned at Della’s white face. “Poor dear, it is such a dommage you have had no maman to guide you. For she would have advised you that a chest such as yours is highly attractive to gentlemen. Your husband will convince you of that, when you are married.”

Well! Della couldn’t understand that at all. In any case, she didn’t want a husband, unless it could be Toby Boxworth. But he seemed to prefer Helena’s more modest figure.

While she mulled over this contradiction, Madame Celeste and Helena discussed a way of using boning under the breasts in her short stays to provide more support. Following this, the young ladies sorted through ribbons and trims for the neckline and sleeves, purchased a small length of white satin for the headdress, and headed for the haberdashery next door for a few sprigs of silk lavender flowers to dress it up.

“As for slippers,” Helena suggested when they entered the ladies’ shoe shop across the street, “Purchase at least two pairs if you plan to dance. I’ve had mine shred to pieces at a ball and would have had to return home in my stockings had my maid not brought along a spare.”

“Perhaps they should be made sturdier,” Della mumbled as the proprietor approached with a bow. Helena gave her a warning glance before she smiled and spoke to him.

“My cousin wishes to be measured for two pairs of white silk dancing slippers, if you please. They’ll be needed soon, for a Christmas Eve ball.”

“Ah, for the ball at Laud Manor. Come this way, miss. We will get you fitted up in good time for the event.”

“Please, do make them as stout as you can. Miss Paget is extraordinarily fond of dancing, you see.” Helena smiled wickedly at Della, who rolled her eyes.

The shoemaker clenched his jaw. “Our footwear is always sturdy, miss. We serve the best families in the shire, and they never have cause to complain.”

“Perfect. When should we return for a fitting?”

Amazon

Books2Read

A Review, Perhaps?

I hesitate to ask this in view of the inconvenience I’ve caused by uploading the wrong file for A Christmas Quintet; however, if you could contribute a review to any book vendors or sites like Bookbub, the Belles would be exceedingly grateful! I never realized a simple mistake could cause such an avalanche of bad publicity!

A Christmas Quintet: A Bluestocking Belles Collection + Giveaway

Nov3

The Bluestocking Belles have produced a new set of Christmas stories for your holiday enjoyment! They include:

Friends to Lovers—The farmer’s daughter, the viscount’s son, and the estate manager reunite as adults. Della is starry-eyed for the viscount’s son, but is he really the one for her? (Regency, Christmas)
Fake Relationship—When the pressure to marry is overwhelming, can a plan put in place at a Christmas house party turn into a love that will last forever? (Regency, Christmas)
Second-Chance Love—An accident leaves the modiste burned, blinded and in despair until the physician offers hope and stirs memories. (Regency, Christmas)
Country Mouse and Marriage-Shy Duke—Invited at the last minute to make up the numbers, she expects to be an interested observer. The duke has other ideas. (Georgian, Twelfth Night)
Two Spies, One Secret—Trapped in a deserted wilderness, will they set aside secrets and past betrayals to rekindle their love and ring in the New Year together? (Medieval, Hogmanay)

Away From the Holiday Crowd by Sherry Ewing

When the pressure to marry is overwhelming, can one Christmas house party provide a love that will last forever?

David Chadwick, Marquis of Lockhart feels burdened by his title’s responsibilities. Heir to a duchy, he knows he must marry but seeks a genuine connection beyond wealth and status. A chance encounter by the lake with his neighbor’s eldest daughter opens his eyes to the possibilities that might blossom between them.

Lady Elinor Lacey has yet to find a man she would consider for her husband. But time is running out when her father demands she pick an eligible lord by Christmas. When the Marquis of Lockhart shows up at the edge of their property, she sees him in an entirely new light, giving her hope.

Their conversation becomes easier the longer they converse. David and Elinor begin concocting a plan to give them more time to find their perfect match. What could possibly go wrong? But as love begins to enter the picture, can the two of them go beyond their original plan and let love into their hearts?

Should Auld Acquaintance Be Forgot? by Alina K. Field

Dreading meeting an old enemy at a Yuletide house party, Madame Marie La Fanelle, an acclaimed London modiste, has a clumsy encounter with a lamp that leaves her burned, blinded, and in terror of the future.

But then a kind German physician appears, offering a hopeful diagnosis, and stirring memories of the man she once loved. Can the magic of the holidays heal Marie’s blindness and soften the hardened hearts of two prideful lovers?

Maryann and the Twelfth Knight by Jude Knight

Maryanne is only at the house party as chaperone for her half-sister. She is far too old and insignificant to attract the attention of a duke. Or, at least, if he is pursuing her it cannot be for honorable purposes.

Dell knows it is time to take a wife, but the offerings of the marriage mart bore him to tears. The only lady of interest at his sister’s house party is the spinster chaperone. But she isn’t eligible, is she?

Her Hogmanay Spy by Rue Allyn

In the winter of 1296, can a Scottish Lady and an English knight survive shipwreck, winter in the wilderness, and a betrayal that could break hearts to bring in the new year with a love for all time?

Excerpt: Della’s Christmas Gift by Susana Ellis

Paget House

Ibstock, Leicestershire

15 September 1801

“LAUD’S HEIR RETURNS FROM GRAND TOUR. In search of wife, says reputable source.”

Della’s brother threw down the latest copy of The Teatime Tattler and snickered. “Poor sod’s too young for a leg-shackle. Doubtless Lady Laud’s pressing for grandchildren. Mothers!”

Their father lifted an eyebrow. “If your mother were still alive, you’d be wed by now, Thomas. I suppose I’ve been negligent on that front. You’re what, thirty now? Ought to be settled down.”

Thomas’s fork clattered when it hit his plate. “And who would I marry? Some farm girl like Della here? If I were a banker’s son I could look higher.”

Della winced and her father’s face turned red. “THOMAS! Apologize to your sister this instant!”

“Sorry,” he mumbled. But Della could tell he wasn’t sincere, even before he added, “But dammit, she should be wed by now too. But what choices does she have, as a farmer’s daughter? We should all be better off if we sold out and went into banking.”

Thomas Sr. pounded the table hard enough to rattle his plate. “ENOUGH!”

Both of his offspring stiffened and stared at him incredulously. Their father rarely lost his temper, and never at the breakfast table. But there had been more than a few arguments recently, Della mused.

“This farm has provided you an easy life, Thomas. You’ve been handed everything you need and want, even a chance for a superior education at Cambridge, which you squandered by neglecting your studies in favor of—er—” he swallowed as he glanced at Della “studies of a different sort.”

Della snorted and promptly looked down at her lap when her father gave her a stern look. Well really. She was twenty years old, the same age as Thomas when he returned home from Cambridge in disgrace. Did they really believe she hadn’t heard all the stories about his misdeeds there? Rumors had been rife at the time, and although she might not have understand exactly what they meant at the age of ten, she had since apprehended them more clearly.

“I’m inclined to believe that this self-indulgent lifestyle you’ve embarked on can be attributed to the influence of the useless young lords with whom you caroused first at Harrow and then at Cambridge.” He shook his head. “Your mother would be ashamed, Thomas.”

His son had the decency to drop his chin.

And well he should, thought Della. He’d had the good fortune to have had a mother, at least. She’d never had that opportunity, her mother having died at Della’s birth.

Their father pushed back his chair and rose from table. “Thomas, your jaunts to London and York and all points in between are now cancelled. Henceforth, you will spend your time at Paget & Sons, employed in furthering the interests of our sheep and cattle.”

Folding his arms in front him, he glared at his son. “In case you’ve forgotten all you’ve been taught over the years, I’ll put the lad in charge to refresh your memory.”

With that, he marched out of the room.

Della giggled. The image of Thomas being bear-led around the farm by the much-younger estate manager seemed dubious at best.

He slapped the table. “It’s not funny! I don’t care a jot about sheep and cattle, and you all know it! Besides, I have a shooting party next week. It’s almost the end of the grouse season.”

Della’s hands curled up. “You should care. This farm will be yours someday! It’s in your own best interests to ensure its prosperity.”

Thomas’s lips curled. “It’s been losing money for years. By the time it comes down to me, it’ll be worth a pittance. Best to sell out now and put the capital where it can do some good.”

Tilting his head, he studied her with a gleam in his eye.

“If I’m not mistaken, you are out there with the cattle every day. And Kit too. Now there’s a match for you—the rustic farm girl and the penniless estate manager.”

Della tossed the remainder of her sausage at him. “You are horrid, Thomas.”

“And you’re a twit,” he threw back as he exited the room.

Della heaved a sigh. It wasn’t that she didn’t like Kit. He’d been one of her best friends forever. But as for marriage, she had something else in mind.

Reaching for the Teatime Tattler, she smoothed her fingers over the headline. Toby was looking for a wife, was he? Well, she intended that he look no further than the neighboring estate.

Release Date: December 1, 2024

Preorder:

KDP: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D49S4YQN/d

D2D: https://books2read.com/u/m0ND5A

A Christmas Quintet Celebration Giveway

Mystery Box
8-1/2 x 6 x 2

What’s in the box? Hints:
• something Christmas-connected
• something tea-connected
• 2 somethings France-connected
• 2 somethings writing-connected
And, of course, the box is a prize in itself!

Post your guesses here: https://www.facebook.com/susana.ellis.5/posts/pfbid0diGAkyzVa6nK42DAqRRDFqkgYGz6hQkU3q4wnacSCJVLaptZG6FroLdj1AfQeUql

Contest ends December 1, 2024. The entry with the most correct answers will win the prize. In the event of a tie, the winner will be chosen randomly.

About the Bluestocking Belles

The Bluestocking Belles (the “BellesInBlue”) are eight very different writers united by a love of history and a history of writing about love. From sweet to steamy, from light-hearted fun to dark tortured tales full of angst, from London ballrooms to country cottages to the sultan’s seraglio, one or more of us will have a tale to suit your tastes and mood.

Website: www.BluestockingBelles.net/

Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dAJU_9

Teatime Tattler twice-weekly gossip magazine: https://bluestockingbelles.net/category/teatime-tattler/

Free books: https://bluestockingbelles.net/teatime-tattler-free-books/

Find buy links and story blurbs for all the following books on our website at https://bluestockingbelles.net/belles-joint-projects/

All I Want For Christmas is You by Susana Ellis

Jul13

From the Belles’ 2023 Christmastide Kisses:

Alicia’s story begins in The Third MacPherson Sister, where her unkindness results in Rebecca MacPherson’s unceremonious removal from London. But the spoiled duke’s daughter suffers repercussions as well, and for the first time she yearns to be a better person. Perhaps the handsome young vicar might be able to help her.

Evan and Alicia are strongly attracted to each other, but she’s not for him. Her wealth and status—and his past—stand between them.

What will it take for this pair to realize that love is the only thing that matters?

Available in digital and print versions.

Excerpt

“My ankle,” she said, wincing as she pointed to her left boot. “I think it’s swollen because I can’t get the boot off. Watch out for the marshy spots!” She warned him as he came to a clump of high grass. “I forgot the fens extended into Blackburn land. Merlin—that’s my horse—stepped into one and unseated me when he pulled out his foot to escape.”

“I see. And Merlin-er-bailed out on you?”

“Not at all,” she said with a superior look. “Merlin is a highly-trained stallion, you know. I sent him home to fetch help. But it’s much better that you have come along. It will be dark soon, and I wasn’t sure how long it would take them to find me.”

He caught a hint of fear in her golden-brown eyes before it was replaced with confident self-assurance.

“It would be my pleasure to escort you home, Miss—?” Then he realized she didn’t know him either, so he added hurriedly, “Evan Campbell, at your service.”

“Lady Alicia Howland, from Huntingdon Manor,” she said with a bright smile on her imminently kissable lips. Where had that thought come from?

He bent down and examined the boot. “It will have to be cut off. I’m afraid I don’t have a knife with me, however. I suppose the thing to do is to carry you to my cart”—he was suddenly embarrassed by his humble equipage— “and convey you to Blackburn Court where a doctor may be summoned.”

She nodded hesitantly. “I suppose you are right. Huntingdon is only a mile from here as the crow flies, but this little mishap has caused me to recall that it’s best to take the road than risk the fens this time of year.”

As he bent down to gather her in his arms, she added, “I think you’d best use the gate this time. I hope I’m not too heavy.”

“I’ll manage,” he said shortly. At six feet two and broad-shouldered, he was hardly a weakling. Was she afraid he would drop her?

She was no lightweight, though. Taller than average, with curves in all the right places, she was a pleasing armful rather than a burden. The feel of her arms around his neck and the proximity of her chest to his made his body stir with desires he hadn’t felt since… well, not for a very long time. He thought he’d managed to drive out the old Evan, the dissolute young man with nothing to do but seek his own pleasure. But there were times when his nemesis came back to haunt him. Like now, when he held a beautiful woman in his arms.

About Susana Ellis

Susana Ellis is a retired teacher, part-time caregiver, sewist, cook, and fashion print collector. Lifelong reading and a fascination with history led her to writing historical romances. She is one of the original Bluestocking Belles and a member of Regency Fiction Writers and the Maumee Valley Romance Authors Inc.

You can contact Susana Ellis at these social media links:

Christmastide Kisses: A Belles With Friends Collection

Dec10

Six charming holiday season romances from award-winning and best-selling authors.

The Bluestocking Belles and Friends brighten your holidays with:

A beleaguered uncle whose wards have run off every governess–what he needs is a wife, if only he can persuade the latest applicant
A country solicitor who becomes an earl and then finds a secret that changes everything
A very proper clergyman battles very improper urges when he and a lady with a murky past find themselves snowbound
A viscount whose search to unearth generations-old family secrets kindles the fire of love for his lovely search partner
A former army captain wonders if the best friend of his ex-fiancee is the woman he should have married
A vicar with a misspent youth and the duke’s daughter who brings out the best in him

Six gentlemen and the ladies with whom they discover the power of a Christmastide Kiss.

Duncan’s Twelfth Night Miracle, by Caroline Warfield

Duncan Laidlaw, newly and unexpectedly raised to Viscount
Mildrum, is in trouble. He’s been saddled with a neglected estate, a
shabby household, and three wild and undisciplined children, his
cousin’s step-children.

After several failed attempts he has concluded that what he
needs first isn’t a governess, it is a wife, someone who can help him
bring order to his home. He turns to his friend, vicar Micah Turner, to
send one. What an outrageous request! Yet, Micah happens to know
just the woman.

A Countess for Christmas, by Jude Knight

Louisa always knew her mother was keeping secrets. She had no
idea how much her life would change when she knew the truth.
Ben was content with his practice as a solicitor. He had no idea
he was the last surviving male heir to a title.
Christmas is a time for surprises, but will bring them each more
than they expected.

Twelfth Night Treasure, by Alina K. Field

Though the Reverend Mr. Matthew Gurnwood longs to marry, he
can’t afford a wife, not one without a dowry. One had to allow for the
possibility of children, for it was a fact that a so-called white marriage
would not do for him, at least not with the sort of woman he’d want to
marry—a woman like the mysterious Miss Dubia Hastings.
Disguised as a lady’s companion, Dubia Hastings has been
hiding from a scandalous past, a mercenary cousin, and an
impossible attraction to the very proper clergyman, Mr. Gurnwood.
When they’re stranded together on Twelfth Night, dare she risk
everything to tell him the truth?

The Lady and the Christmas Brooch, by Ruth A. Casie

In the historic halls of Westerfield Manor, an entwined tale of
mystery, love, and destiny unfolds. Lady Genevieve and Lord
Ashford embark on a challenge to uncover the hidden family secrets
that span generations—before midnight. Amidst the allure of the
past, they find themselves drawn into a web of intrigue fueled by
secret letters, a missing treasured brooch, and the whispers of an
age-old romance. As midnight draws near, Genevieve and Ashford’s
bond deepens, revealing that true love, like the secrets of the past, is
illuminated by those willing to look beyond the bounds of a restricted
society. In a spellbinding story weaving together destiny and
unwavering commitment, the legacy of a family finds itself rewritten
by the enduring and profound magic that only love can offer.

All Things Merry and Bright, by Aileen Fish

When his fiancée broke off their betrothal, James fought rejection by
sealing off his heart. After thirteen years, can he finally open himself
to love again with his best friend’s little sister? Bea isn’t about to lose
her chance at claiming the only man she’s ever desired, and this
Christmas she plans to give him the long overdue gift of her heart.

All I Want For Christmas Is You, by Susana Ellis

Alicia’s story begins in The Third MacPherson Sister, where her
unkindness results in Rebecca MacPherson’s unceremonious
removal from London. But the spoiled duke’s daughter suffers
repercussions as well, and for the first time she yearns to be a better
person. Perhaps the handsome young vicar might be able to help
her.

Evan and Alicia are strongly attracted to each other, but she’s not
for him. Her wealth and status—and his past—stand between them.
What will it take for this pair to realize that love is the only thing that
matters?

Release date: December 26, 2023

Pre-order now:

Mrs. Barlow’s Tasteful Advisements to Young Matrons and Overwrought Mothers of Daughters: the Bill of Fare

Feb25

Introducing Mrs. Barlow

Mrs. Leah Barlow

Mrs. Leah Barlow, mother of five lovely daughters herself, has graciously condescended to provide Susana’s Parlour with some of her tasteful advisements on housewifely matters, such as meal planning and the rearing of children, in hopes that our readers will find them informative. Having recently set up a Twitter account where she will be sharing her most treasured household tips, she hopes many of you will follow her: https://twitter.com/lucybarlowsmom

Much of her advice comes from this manual, which she insists should be in every housewife’s possession:

The Cook and Housewife’s Manual, Containing the Most approved Modern Receipts for Making Soups, Gravies, Sauces, Regouts, and All Made-dishes; and for Pies, Puddings, Pickles, and Preserves; Also, for Baking Brewing, Making Home-made Wines, Cordials, &c.

Mrs. Margaret Dods (Christian Isobel Johnstone), Edinburgh, 1826

Available free on Google

Bills of Fare

As landmarks to the inexperienced housekeeper, we subjoin a few bills of fare, observing, at the same time, that these must, in every instance, be let to individual taste and discretion. Bills of fare may be varied in endless ways,—nor can any specific rules be given for selecting dishes for the table, which must depend wholly on fortune, fashion, the season of the year, local situation, and a variety of circumstances. Neatness and propriety alone are of universal obligation in the regulation of every table, from the humblest to the most splendid. To the credit of the age it may be remarked, that modern fashion inclines more to a few dishes, well selected and elegantly disposed, than to that heterogeneous accumulation of good things with which notable British housewives used to conceal their table-linen.

…

The manner of laying out a fashionable table is nearly the same in all quarters of the united kingdoms; yet there are trifling local peculiarities to which the prudent housewife in middle life must attend. A centre-ornament, whether it be called a dormant, a plateau, an epergne, or a candelabra, is found so convenient, and contributes so much to the good appearance of the table, that a fashionable dinner is now seldom set out without something of this kind.

…

…[O]ne important art in housekeeping is to make what remains over from one day’s entertainment contribute to the…next day’s repasts. This is a principle understood by persons in the very highest ranks of society, and who maintain the most splendid and expensive establishments… [V]egetables, ragouts, and soups, may be re-warmed; and jellies and blancmange remoulded, with no deterioration of their qualities. Savoury or sweet patties, potted meats, croquets, rissoles, vol-auvents, fritters, tartlets, &c., may be served with almost no cost, where cookery is going forward on a large scale…

At dinners of any pretension, it is understood that the first course shall consist of soups and fish, succeeded by boiled poultry, ham or tongue, roasts, stews, &c.,; and of vegetables, with a few made-dishes, such as ragouts, curries, hashes, cutlets, patties, fricandeaus, &c., in as great variety as the number of dishes permits; as a jelly and a cream, a white and a brown, or a clear and a stew-soup. For the second course, roasted poultry or game at the top and bottom, with dressed vegetables, omelets, macaroni, jellies, creams, salads, preserved fruit, and all sorts of sweet things and pastry, are employed. This is a more common arrangement than three courses, which are attended with so much additional trouble both to the guests and servants.

But whether the dinner be of two or three courses, it is managed nearly in the same way… In the centre, there is generally some ornamental article, as an epergne with flowers, real or artificial, or with a decorated salad… Two dishes of fish dressed in different ways, if suitable, should occupy the top and bottom; and two soups, a white and a brown, or a mild and a high-seasoned, are best disposed on each side of the centre-piece: the fish-sauces are placed between the centre-piece and the dish of fish to which each is appropriate; and this, with the decanted wines drank during dinner, forms the first course. When there are rare French or Rhenish wines, they are placed in the original bottles (uncorked) in ornamented wine-vases, at the head and bottom of the table,—that is, between the centre-piece and the top and bottom dishes; or if four kinds, they are ranged round the plateau.

The Second Course, when there are three, consists of roasts and stews for the top and bottom, Turkey or fowls, or fricandeau and ham garnished, or tongue, for the sides; with small made-dishes for the corners, served in covered dishes; as palates, stewed giblets, currie of any kind, ragout, or fricassee of rabbits, stewed mushrooms, &c. &c. Two sauce-tureens, or glasses with pickles, or very small made-dishes, may be placed between the epergne and the top and bottom dishes; vegetables on the side-table are handed round…

The Third Course consists of game, confectionary, the more delicate vegetables dressed in the French way, puddings, creams, jellies, &c.

Rummer (a water glass)

Water-bottles, with rummers, are placed at proper intervals. Malt liquors and other common beverages are called for; but where hock, champagne, &c. &c. are served, they are handed round between the courses. When the third course is cleared away, cheese, butter, a fresh salad, or sliced cucumber, are usually served; and the finger-glasses, where these disagreeable things continue to be openly used, precede the dessert. At many tables, however, of the first fashion, it is customary merely to hand round quickly a glass vessel or two filled with simple, or simply perfumed tepid water, made by the addition of a little rose or lavender water, or a home-made strained infusion of rose leaves or lavender spikes. Into this water each guest may dip the corner of his napkin, and with this (only when needful) refresh his lips and the tips of his fingers…

The Dessert may consist merely of two dishes of fine fruit for the top and bottom; common or dried fruits, filberts, &c. for the corners or sides, and a cake for the middle, with ice-pails in hot weather. Liqueurs are at this stage handed round; and the wines usually drank after dinner are placed decanted on the table along with the dessert, and the ice-pails and plates removed as soon as the company finish their ice. Where there is preserved ginger, it follows the ices; or is eaten to heighten to the palate the delicious coolness of the dessert wines.

About A Twelfth Night Tale

Without dowries or the opportunity to meet eligible gentlemen, the five Barlow sisters stand little chance of making advantageous marriages. When Lucy, the eldest, attracts the attention of a wealthy viscount, she knows she should encourage his attentions, since marriage to a peer will be advantageous to all. The man of her dreams was Andrew Livingston, her best friend’s brother. But he’s always treated her like a child, and now he’s betrothed to another. Perhaps the time has come to accept reality… and Lord Bexley.

Andrew returned from the Peninsular War with a lame arm and emotional scars. Surprisingly, it’s his sister’s friend, “little Lucy”—now a strikingly lovely young woman—who shows him the way out of his melancholy. But with an eligible viscount courting her, Andrew will need a little Christmas magic to win her for himself.

Amazon • iBooks • Kobo • Nook

Mary Darby Robinson: The Mistletoe—A Christmas Tale

Dec25

The Mistletoe—A Christmas Tale

By Laura Maria (Mary Darby Robinson)

A Farmer’s Wife, both young and gay,

And fresh as op’ning morn of May!

Had taken to herself a Spouse,

And taken many solemn vows,

That she, a faithful mate would prove,

In meekness, duty, and in love;

That she, despising joy and wealth,

Would be, in sickness and in health,

His only comfort, and his friend—

But mark the sequel, and attend.

This Farmer, as the story’s told,

Was somewhat cross, and somewhat old;

His was the wintry hour of life,

While Summer smil’d before his Wife;

He was both splenetic and crusty,

She, buxom, blooming, blithe, and lusty;

A contrast, rather form’d to eloy

The zest of matrimonial joy!

‘Twas Christmas time, the Peasant

Assembled gay, with dance and song,

The Farmer’s kitchin long had been

Of annual sports the busy scene;

The wood fire blaz’d, the chimney wide,

Presented seats on either side;

Long rows of wooden trenchers, clean,

Bedeck’d with belly-boughs, were seen;

The shining tankard’s foamy ale

Gave spirits to the goblin tale,

While many a rosy cheek grew pale.

It happen’d that, some sport to shew,

The ceiling held—a Mistletoe:

A magic bough, and well defign’d

To prove the coyest maiden kind:

A magic bough, which Druids old

In sacred mysteries enroll’d;

And which, or gssip Fame’s a liar,

Still warms the soul with vivid fire,

Still promises celestial bliss,—

While bigots snatch their idols kiss.

The Mistletoe was doom’d to be

The talisman of destiny!

Beneath its ample boughs, we’re told,

Full many a timid swain grew bold;

Full many a roguish eye askance,

Beheld it with impatient glance;

And many a ruddy cheek consest

The trimphs of the beating breast;

And many a rustic rover sigh’d,

Who ask’d the kiss—and was denied.

First Marg’ry smil’d, and gave her lover

A kiss—then thank’d her stars, ‘twas over!

Next Kate, with a reluctant pace,

Was led towards the mystic place/

Then Sue, a merry laughing jade,

A dimpled, yielding blush display’d;

While Joan, her chastity to shew,

Wish’d the “bold knaves would serve her so!

She’d teach the rogues such wanton play,”

And well she could, she knew the way!

The Farmer, mute with jealous care,

Sat sullen in his wicker chair;

Hating the noisy gamesome host,

Yet fearful to resign his post;

He envied all their sportive strife,

But most he watch’d his blooming wife;

And trembled, lest her steps should go,

Incautious, near the Mistletoe.

Now Hodge, a youth of rustic grace,

Of form athletic, mainly face,

On Mistress Homespun turn’d his eye,

And breath’d a soul-declaring sigh;

Old Homespun mark’d his list’ning fair,

And nestled in his wicker chair;

Hodge swore she might his heart command,

The pipe was dropp’d from Homespun’s hand!

Hodge prest her slender waist around,

The Farmer check’d his draught, and frown’d;

And now beneath the Mistletoe

‘Twas Mistress Homespun’s turn to go,

Old Surly shook his wicker chair—

And sternly utter’d,—“Let her dare!”

Hodge to the Farmer’s wife declar’d

Such husbands never should be spar’d;

Swore, they deserv’d the werst disgrace,

That lights upon the wedded race,

And vow’d, that night, he would not go,

Unblest, beneath the Mistletoe.

The merry group all recommend

A harmless life, the strife to end:

“Why not?” says Marg’ry, “who would fear

“A dang’rous moment once a year?”

Susan observ’d, that “ancient folks

“Were seldom pleas’d by youthful jokes.”

But Kate, who, till that fatal hour,

Had held o’er Hodge unrivall’d pow’r,

With curving lip, and head aside,

Look’d down, and smil’d in conscious pride,

Then, anxious to conceal her care,

She humm’d—What fools some women are!

Now Mistress Homespun, sorely vex’d,

By pride and jealous rage perplex’d;

And angry, that her peevish spouse

Should doubt her matrimonial vows;

But, most of all, resolv’d tomake,

An envious Rival’s bosom ache,

Commanded Hodge to let her go,

Nor lead her near the Mistletoe,

“Why should you ask it o’er and o’er?”

Cried she, “we’ve been there twice before!”

‘Tis thus to check a Rival’s sway,

That women oft themselves betray!

While, Vanity alone pursuing,

They rashly prove their own undoing!

About Mary Darby Robinson and this Painting

From the Wallace Collection:

Mary Robinson (1758-1800) was one of the best known actresses and writers of the 18th century. She was also one of the most painted and caricatured woman of the period. Having first appeared on stage in 1776, it was a later performance in The Winter’s Tale for which the actress became particularly famous; a part which earned her the nickname ‘Perdita’. It was in this role that Mrs Robinson first caught the attention of the Prince of Wales (later George IV), with whom she went on to have a brief but notorious affair.

This portrait was commissioned in 1781 by the Prince of Wales (later George IV). He had ended a brief affair with Mrs Robinson, who then sought financial compensation from him; after Robinson resorted to blackmail, he eventually agreed to a settlement in August of that year. Mrs Robinson is depicted holding a miniature portrait of the Prince (1735-1789), a gift from him during their liaison.

Gainsborough’s fluid brushwork and loose composition are particularly notable. The sitter appears to melt into the landscape, imparting a poetic dimension to the picture. Although it is recognised today as one of the artist’s masterpieces, he withdrew the portrait from the Royal Academy exhibition in 1782 after it was criticised for not conveying an exact physical likeness of the sitter, and was unfavourably compared to portraits of the same sitter by Reynolds and Romney.

The painting was presented to the 2nd Marquess of Hertford by the Prince Regent in 1818.

Caroline Warfield: Lady Charlotte’s Christmas Vigil

Sep3

This beautiful cover for Caroline Warfield’s 2017 Christmas novella comes with the announcement that the book is available for pre-order from various retailers.

Love is the best medicine and the sweetest things in life are worth the wait, especially at Christmastime in Venice for a stranded English Lady and a dedicated doctor.

About Lady Charlotte’s Christmas Vigil

Lady Charlotte Tyree clings to one dream—to see the splendor of Rome before settling for life as the spinster sister of an earl. But now her feckless brother forces her to wait again, stranded in Venice when he falls ill, halfway to the place of her dreams. She finds the city damp, moldy, and riddled with disease.

As a physician, Salvatore Caresini well knows the danger of putrid fever. He lost his young wife to it, leaving him alone to care for their rambunctious children. He isn’t about to let the lovely English lady risk her life nursing her brother.

But Christmas is coming, that season of miracles, and with it, perhaps, lessons for two lonely people: that love heals the deepest wounds and sometimes the deepest dreams aren’t what we expect. Pre-order it here:

Amazon

Smashwords

About the Author

Carol Roddy – Author

Traveler, poet, librarian, technology manager—award winning and Amazon best-selling author Caroline Warfield has been many things (even a nun), but above all she is a romantic. Having retired to the urban wilds of eastern Pennsylvania, she reckons she is on at least her third act, happily working in an office surrounded by windows where she lets her characters lead her to adventures while she nudges them to explore the riskiest territory of all, the human heart. She is enamored of history, owls, and gardens (but not the actual act of gardening). She is also a regular contributor to History Imagined, a blog at the intersection of history and fiction, and (on a much lighter note) The Teatime Tattler, a blog in the shape of a fictional nineteenth century gossip rag.

Her current series, Children of Empire, set in the late Georgian/early Victorian period, focuses on three cousins, driven apart by lies and deceit, who must find their way back from the distant reaches of the empire.

Click here to find out more.

Patricia Kiyono: Three French Inns

Dec15

Thank you, Susana, for inviting me back to your lovely blog! I’m so excited about the chance to share my newest Christmas novella, Three French Inns. This is the third book in a series of holiday regencies – The Partridge and the Peartree and Two Tutor Doves are the first two. I’ve had great fun working on these novellas. Several people have asked how I came up with the idea to base a series on a familiar Christmas carol, so I thought I’d explain how this came about.

I never really intended to write a series. The Partridge and the Peartree was my contribution to a call-out for regency novellas set in 1812. I’d never written a regency, but I wanted to try. Originally, the request was for stories to be included in a multi-author series to be titled The Twelve Dukes of Christmas. Having spent many years teaching elementary music, the series title immediately made me think of the words to the song The Twelve Days of Christmas. I wrote a story about Lady Amelia Partridge and Phillip Peartree, Duke of Bartlett.

Happily, the book did quite well, although a few reviewers took me to task for creating events that would not have happened in that time period. So three years later, when I got my rights back, I did a lot of editing and re-released what I hope is a more historically accurate story. And then, the ideas started coming. What would happen after Phillip and Amelia married? I decided that the duke’s valet Robert and Amelia’s maid Jeanne needed their own story, and Two Tutor Doves was written and released last year. Robert and Jeanne’s story provided new problems. Since neither Robert or Jeanne are nobles, they had to speak and behave in different ways than their employers. This second book ended with Jeanne vowing to look for her missing brother, so of course that brother Peter became the hero for the next story, Three French Inns.

Researching this third story was an even greater challenge. Most available information about this time period is about the gentry, specifically English gentry. Most of my characters are French, and they aren’t nobles – so I spent a lot of time searching for the details I needed. Fortunately, I was able to reach out to a few author friends – one is English, and had already done research for a regency era book set in France. Another fabulous resource I stumbled on was a very kind history professor at a nearby university. Between them, I was able to produce what I hope is a believable story.

Will I continue the series? Probably. I have a few ideas simmering for the next book. But I’m quite sure I won’t continue all the way to Twelve Lords a-Leaping!

About Three French Inns

Peter Brown joined His Majesty’s Army in the fight against Napoleon, but when he was wounded, a lovely French woman tended him. She was a recent widow, and they were on opposing sides of the war, so they went their separate ways. But he never forgot his “bel ange” — his beautiful angel.

Caroline Bouchard Duval marched with her husband in Napoleon’s army, eager to leave her sleepy village and see the world. But after being widowed, she returned to her childhood home in the French Alps. When a bloody traveler enters her father’s inn, she recognizes him immediately. Could this man give her another chance to fulfill her dreams?

Amazon • Barnes and Noble • Smashwords • All-Romance ebooks • Kobo

Excerpt

On the long road out of Lyon, her wagon had broken a wheel, and she’d had to walk the rest of the way. Three years of traveling with the army had prepared her well, and she’d trudged along, eating berries and whatever she could find along the way.

She’d been traveling alone and was within a day’s journey to her home when she’d heard a weak cry for help. She’d found him in the bushes. The stranger had been wounded — not badly, but enough that he wasn’t able to walk. A musket ball had pierced his calf and had done a lot of damage, though it had missed the bone. She’d dragged him to a clearing so that she could see well enough to clean the wound, remove the musket ball, and wrap his leg.

She’d found a rusty wheelbarrow and taken him to an abandoned barn, where she’d stayed with him until she was sure he’d recover. For two days they’d talked, told stories, and learned a lot about each other. He’d sympathized about the loss of her husband. She’d expressed sadness that he had no family waiting for him at home.

They hadn’t exchanged family names or any other information. Both of them had known that their meeting was a special moment in time meant to be remembered fondly.

She’d continued on to Ambérieu, back to her life as an innkeeper’s daughter. When her mother died, she’d taken over as cook and maid. But she’d never forgotten the handsome stranger. The man who now lay in her father’s inn.

About the Author

During her first career, Patricia Kiyono taught elementary music, computer classes, elementary classrooms, and junior high social studies. She now teaches music education at the university level.

She lives in southwest Michigan with her husband, not far from her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Current interests, aside from writing, include sewing, crocheting, scrapbooking, and music. A love of travel and an interest in faraway people inspires her to create stories about different cultures.

website • blog • Facebook • Twitter • Instagram • Pinterest

CL Gaber’s Before the Holidays Giveaway Hop

Dec1

`*•.¸(`*•.¸(`*•.¸★¸.•*´)¸.•*´)¸.•*´

Hosted by Teaser Addicts Book Blog

.•*´(¸.•*´(¸.•*´★`*•.¸)`*•.¸)`*•.¸

We have 20 stops giving you a great chance to win AMAZING PRIZES from some Amazing ‪#‎Authors‬ and ‪#‎Bloggers‬.

Each stop is a NEW chance to WIN something great.

Susana’s Giveaway

A print copy of A Twelfth Night Tale and two lovely ornaments from the UK.

Every stop is different and have different instructions to follow, BE SURE TO READ CAREFULLY SO THAT YOU ARE ENTERED CORRECTLY TO WIN.

✔Read the post below about the Bluestocking Belles’ Holiday Anthology, Holly and Hopeful Hearts and comment on the post. A random commenter will be chosen on December 13th to win the above prize. International participants welcome.

The next stop on the hop is Teaser’s Book Blog.

To enter their prize, jump to the next stop here – Teaser’s Book Blog.

8 novellas – 578 pages – ~~$2.99~~

$0.99 through December!

Amazon US • Amazon UK • Amazon Australia • Amazon Canada

Smashwords • Kobo • Barnes & Noble • iBooks

A Suitable Husband, by Jude Knight

As the Duchess of Haverford’s companion, Cedrica Grenford is not treated as a poor relation and is encouraged to mingle with Her Grace’s guests. Surely she can find a suitable husband amongst the gentlemen gathered for the duchess’s house party. Above stairs or possibly below.

Valuing Vanessa, by Susana Ellis

Facing a dim future as a spinster under her mother’s thumb, Vanessa Sedgely makes a practical decision to attach an amiable gentleman who will not try to rule her life.

A Kiss for Charity, by Sherry Ewing

Young widow Grace, Lady de Courtenay, has no idea how a close encounter with a rake at a masquerade ball would make her yearn for love again. Can she learn to forgive Lord Nicholas Lacey and set aside their differences to let love into her heart?

Artemis, by Jessica Cale

Actress Charlotte Halfpenny is in trouble. Pregnant, abandoned by her lover, and out of a job, Charlotte faces eviction two weeks before Christmas. When the reclusive Earl of Somerton makes her an outrageous offer, she has no choice but to accept. Could he be the man of her dreams, or is the nightmare just beginning?

The Bluestocking and the Barbarian, by Jude Knight

James must marry to please his grandfather, the duke, and to win social acceptance for himself and his father’s other foreign-born children. But only Lady Sophia Belvoir makes his heart sing, and to win her he must invite himself to spend Christmas at the home of his father’s greatest enemy.

Christmas Kisses, by Nicole Zoltack

Louisa Wycliff, Dowager Countess of Exeter wants only for her darling daughter, Anna, to find a man she can love and marry. Appallingly, Anna has her sights on a scoundrel of a duke who chases after every skirt he sees. Anna truly thinks the dashing duke cares for her, but her mother has her doubts.

An Open Heart, by Caroline Warfield

Esther Baumann longs for a loving husband who will help her create a home where they will teach their children to value the traditions of their people, but she wants a man who is also open to new ideas and happy to make friends outside their narrow circle. Is it so unreasonable to ask for toe curling passion as well?

Dashing Through the Snow, by Amy Rose Bennett

Headstrong bluestocking, Miss Kate Woodville, never thought her Christmas would be spent racing across England with a viscount hell-bent on vengeance. She certainly never expected to find love…

About the Belles

The Bluestocking Belles, the “BellesInBlue”, are seven very different writers united by a love of history and a history of writing about love. From sweet to steamy, from light-hearted fun to dark tortured tales full of angst, from London ballrooms to country cottages to the sultan’s seraglio, one or more of us will have a tale to suit your tastes and mood. Come visit us at http://bluestockingbelles.net and kick up your bluestockinged heels!

Website & Blog (The Teatime Tattler)

Facebook • Twitter • Pinterest • Amazon Author Page

The Bluestocking Belles proudly support the Malala Fund charity. You can find out more on our website: http://bluestockingbelles.net/belles-joint-projects/the-bellesinblue-support-the-malala-fund/

About Amy Rose Bennett

Amy Rose Bennett has always wanted to be a writer for as long as she can remember. An avid reader with a particular love for historical romance, it seemed only natural to write stories in her favorite genre. She has a passion for creating emotion-packed—and sometimes a little racy—stories set in the Georgian and Regency periods. Of course, her strong-willed heroines and rakish heroes always find their happily ever after.

Website and Blog • Facebook • Twitter • Pinterest

About Jessica Cale

Jessica Cale is the award-winning author of the historical romance series, The Southwark Saga. Originally from Minnesota, she lived in Wales for several years where she earned a BA in History and an MFA in Creative Writing while climbing castles and photographing mines for history magazines. She kidnapped (“married”) her very own British prince (close enough) and is enjoying her happily ever after with him in North Carolina. Visit her history blog at www.dirtysexyhistory.com.

Website • Facebook • Twitter • Pinterest

About Susana Ellis

Susana has always had stories in her head waiting to come out, especially when she learned to read and her imagination began to soar.

A former teacher, Susana lives in Toledo, Ohio in the summer and Florida in the winter. She is a member of the Central Florida Romance Writers and the Beau Monde chapters of RWA and Maumee Valley Romance Inc.

Website • Facebook • Twitter • Pinterest

About Sherry Ewing

Sherry Ewing picked up her first historical romance when she was a teenager and has been hooked ever since. A bestselling author, she writes historical and time travel romances to awaken the soul one heart at a time.

Website and Blog • Facebook • Twitter • Pinterest

About Jude Knight

Jude Knight writes stories to transport you to another time, another place, where you can enjoy adventure and romance, thrill to trials and challenges, uncover secrets and solve mysteries, and delight in a happy ending.

A late starter, she now has the wind in her sails and a head full of strong determined heroines, heroes with the sense to appreciate them, and villains you’ll love to loathe.

Website and Blog • Facebook • Twitter • Pinterest

About Caroline Warfield

Traveler, poet, librarian, technology manager—award winning author Caroline Warfield has been many things (even a nun), but above all she is a romantic. Having retired to the urban wilds of eastern Pennsylvania, she reckons she is on at least her third act, happily working in an office surrounded by windows while she lets her characters lead her to adventures in England and the far-flung corners of the British Empire. She nudges them to explore the riskiest territory of all, the human heart.

Website and Blog • Facebook • Twitter • Pinterest

About Nicole Zoltack

Nicole Zoltack loves to write romances. When she’s not writing about gentlemen and their ladies, knights, or superheroes, she spends time with her growing family. She enjoys riding horses (pretending they’re unicorns, of course!) and visiting the PA Renaissance Faire. She’ll also read anything she can get her hands on.

Website and Blog • Facebook • Twitter • Pinterest