Austenesque Reviews

Captain Wentworth Home from the Sea - Mary Simonsen

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:46:36 PST

What if Captain Wentworth Lost His Memory?

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

In her delightful and engaging Persuasion variation, accomplished Austenesque author Mary Simonsen takes up her pen and asks: What if Captain Wentworth had no memory of his previous relationship and dealings with the Elliot family when he renewed his acquaintance with them in 1814? With Captain Wentworth's serious head injury during the Napoleonic Wars serve as her impetus, Ms. Simonsen steers the characters of Persuasion down an alternate and untraveled course; one that filled with less resentment, bitterness, and wounded pride than the original...

Since he has temporarily lost his memory, Captain Wentworth remembers neither his anger nor his love for Anne Elliot. But Anne does, she vividly recalls their falling in love, their blissful plans for the future, her breaking of his heart, and Frederick's bitter adieu. And now she is in the difficult position of having to conceal it all or else she will destroy the amicable friendship they have established.

Frederick finds himself drawn to Anne's kind nature, agreeable company, and steady character. And it seems he has started to think about his future... How long will Anne be able to keep up this charade? Is she risking her heart for a taste of happiness? Will Frederick forgive her?

I dearly loved reading this variation novella for Persuasion! Don't get me wrong, I adore Pride and Prejudice variations...but Jane Austen did write some other brilliant novels! My favorite aspect about this novella (and every novel I've read by Mary Simonsen) is her accurate renderings and illustrative augmentations of Jane Austen's characters. I adored Ms. Simonsen's depiction of Anne, she was so patient and compassionate, and I enjoyed seeing her tender nature with Frederick. In addition, Ms. Simonsen's Frederick had me bursting out with laughter with his bluntness and overly candid conversations! Not only was Captain Wentworth's memory effected by his injury, but it seems his social skills were too. Lastly, I was so elated to see Sophia Croft and Mrs. Jane Harville, two of the most sensible and admirable women in Persuasion, receive more attention and bigger parts in this plot!

My one quibble for this novella is that I wish there was a tad more resolution – truth be told, I would have loved fifty more pages! Nonetheless, I found Captain Wentworth Home from the Sea to be an originative, spirited, and well-crafted variation of Persuasion. I can only hope this is the first of many! Please, Ms. Simonsen, write some more!

Note: Due to some slightly intimate scenes (very brief and mild), I would recommend this novella for Mature Audiences.

This is my fourth completed item for the Explore the Many Genres of Jane Austen Spinoffs 2012 Reading Challenge hosted by Shanna @ Existings Tricky!

Novels by Mary Simonsen reviewed on Austenesque Reviews:

Winner of the Dear Jane Austen Giveaway!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:13:21 PST

Thank you to all of my readers for making my running this blog so very rewarding! It gives me so much pleasure to share my love of Austenesque literature with you! Thank you for your readership, comments, and participation on this blog!

Without further ado... the randomly selected winner of Dear Jane Austen by Patrice Hannon is... Petite!

When it is convenient, please email your address!

Austentatious - Alyssa Goodnight

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:46:55 PST

Where Does One Buy a Magical Austenesque Journal?

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

While some of us may make general life plans and long-term goals, our heroine Nicola James has taken planning her life to the extreme. Creating a “Life Plan” at the age of thirteen and strictly adhering to it for the rest of their life is not something most people are in the practice of doing. But because Nicola's dad made promises he never kept and plans he never followed through on, Nicola has decided that everything in her life must strictly coincide and adhere to her Life Plan. Which includes: getting a MBA, buying a home, being promoted to management, and finding a sensible, sturdy, like-minded man to marry.

But Nicola's Life Plan is put to the ultimate test when a magical journal and a sexy Scottish rocker come into the picture. Nicola must let her viselike grip on life loosen and embrace the magical, unpredictable, and weird that surrounds her...

I am in love with this quirky, offbeat, and enchanting novel! Never have I wished to be in a novel more! I want to be Nicola's best friend, meet Sean MacInnes in the flesh, and communicate with Jane Austen through a magical journal! (How fantastic would that be?) What I loved most about this novel was the incredibly well-drawn and likable characters (especially Nic and Sean!) In addition, I loved Alyssa Goodnight's clever channeling of Jane Austen's ironic wit, which in my opinion was spot on. I also took great pleasure in Ms. Goodnight's playful and relaxed tone, which at times felt very intimate. And I greatly appreciated all her awesome references to The Princess Bride, Lord of the Rings, and Seinfeld!

I must devote this next paragraph of my review to reflect on the über sexiness that is Sean MacInnes! Allow me to enumerate the reasons why he is sexy: he's got a Scottish accent, plays in a band, is roguishly handsome, exudes confidence and charm, but is also spontaneous, romantic, and sincere. It is impossible for you to read Austentatious and NOT develop a crush on Sean! Go Team MacInnes!

Magnetic, compelling, and comedic – Austentatious is a novel you should not miss! This romantic and magical adventure is sure to entertain and delight fans of Jane Austen and the Austenesque genre! And the great news is that there seems to be another novel in the works for Ms. Goodnight! YAY! I can't wait to see if the magical Austenesque journal will make another appearance!

Note: Due to some mild profanity and allusions to intimate scenes (nothing happens on stage), I'd recommend this novel for PG-13 audiences.

This is my third completed item for the Explore the Many Genres of Jane Austen Spinoffs 2012 Reading Challenge hosted by Shanna @ Existings Tricky!

Austenesque Novel Finds #11

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:58:10 PST

Northanger Alibi (Jane Austen Diaries)

Author - Jenni James
Type of Austenesque Novel - Modern Adaptation, Young Adult
Release Date - February 3rd, 2012
Pages - 243
Available in - Paperback
Available at - amazon.com

from goodreads.com:
This modern Gothic remake of Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey, and nod to Stephenie Meyer's Twilight Series, will leave you in stitches--literally.

Seattle Washington, and the Russo family, are no match for Claire Hart and her savvy knowledge of all things vampire related. Thanks to her obsession with the Twilight series--if there is anyone who would know a vampire when she saw one, it's Claire. And she's positive totally hot Tony Russo is a vampire, she just has to prove it! Follow Claire's hilarious journey on her first summer adventure away from home, where she learns everything isn't what it seems, and in some instances, reality is way better than anything she'd ever find in a book.

MY THOUGHTS:

LOVED LOVED LOVED the first book in this series!
It looks like Jenni James is planning a SIX book Young Adult series! I love it when authors write a book for each of Jane Austen's novels!
Confession: I've never read the books or seen the movies from the Twilight series. I hope that won't be a drawback for my enjoyment of this novel...
I think this would be a fun adventure! Claire sounds just like Catherine!
Gothic novels are awesome!

What are your thoughts?

Previous Posts:
Austenesque Novel Finds #10 - Midnight in Austenland
Austenesque Novel Finds #9 - Definitely Not Mr. Darcy
Austenesque Novel Finds #8 - A Modern Day Persuasion
Austenesque Novel Finds #7 - The Dashwood Sisters Tell All
Austenesque Novel Finds #6 - Wickham's Diary

Dear Jane Austen - Patrice Hannon + (GIVEAWAY!!!)

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:21:14 PST

Jane Austen Meets “Dear Abby”

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

In the course of your daily life, have you ever stopped and wondered “What Would Jane Do?” When dealing with difficult decisions or in need of some advice, do you ever find yourself wishing you could ask Jane Austen? We all know Jane Austen is intelligent, moral, and observant, and we know that she often dispensed wise counsel and advice to her brothers and nieces, but is she able to help us modern-day heroines who live in the twenty-first century?

Of course she is! Jane Austen is timeless and in this instructive guide/epistolary novel modern-day readers can see how her advice and sensible counsel is always relevant to heroines no matter what era they come from!

Written in a “Dear Abby” format, Patrice Hannon creates a novel where Jane Austen (writing from her home in Chawton Cottage in 1816) can some how exchange correspondence with readers in the twenty-first century. There are ten chapters in this novel, each with its own theme (i.e. family, friends, heroes, sex, marriage, money). In each chapter there are between one and five different exchanges of correspondence.

I thought this book was just terrific! The heroine's have problems such as: fair weather friends, dysfunctional families, being attracted to bad boys, feeling their looks were too plain, and of course wondering if they've found the right mate. Issues with which many readers can relate to and understand. I loved Jane Austen's wise advice, it wasn't antiquated or irrelevant. Patrice Hannon did a remarkable job of blending Jane Austen's acerbic wit with instructive counsel. Making Jane Austen's responses not only helpful but entertaining as well.

My favorite aspect of this novel was Patrice Hannon's meticulous and perceptive analysis of Jane Austen's characters. When responding to her “would-be heroines” Jane often referred to her own novels and cited examples of her own characters. Comparing their situations and dilemmas to those of Anne Elliot, Elinor Dashwood, and Fanny Price; and advising them to not follow the ways of Maria Bertram, Lydia Bennet, and Isabella Thorpe. Seeing the numerous examples to be garnered from Jane Austen's novels, the reader cannot help but see how they really are the most perfect and sagacious guide for conduct and character!

Want to know how to be a happy heroine? Just follow the acknowledged truths that are peppered throughout this tome. Here are some of my favorites:

“A heroine has pride despite her imperfections.”

“A heroine founds expectations on facts and common sense, not fantasy and wishful thinking.”

“A heroine's beauty is more a matter of her character and manner than her physical features.”

“A heroine does not judge the motives of others by the effects of their actions upon herself.”

Written with ingenuity and humor this heroine's guide is sure to entertain and enlighten many readers, whether they are in need of some wise counsel or looking for a perceptive study of Jane Austen's characters! I highly recommend!

GIVEAWAY TIME!!!

I'm so grateful and appreciative of everyone who reads, comments, and contributes to this blog! Thank you so much for all your support and for making my running of this blog such an IMMENSE pleasure!!

To show my appreciation I'd like to give away a BRAND NEW copy of Dear Jane Austen: A Heroine's Guide to Life and Love by Patrice Hannon to ONE lucky reader!

All you have to do is leave a comment on this review. (To save your inbox from unwanted spam, please don't leave your email address.) Just check back to see if you win! Because I'm so grateful of my international readers, this giveaway is open worldwide!

This contest ends January 22nd! Thank you for entering and best of luck!

This is my second completed item for the Explore the Many Genres of Jane Austen Spinoffs 2012 Reading Challenge hosted by Shanna @ Existings Tricky!

Winners of the To Have His Cake Giveaway!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:20:09 PST

I'd like to extend a big thank you to P. O. Dxon for so kindly sending me a copy of To Have His Cake (and Eat it Too) to review and for giving me the very special opportunity to give away TWO ebooks of To Have His Cake!! I greatly enjoyed this Pride and Prejudice variation and I am so glad I finally go to read it! (It has been on my wishlist for a long time!)

Thank you to all of you who stopped by to read my review of To Have His Cake, I was very pleased to hear that those of you who read it thought highly of it too!

Without further ado... the randomly selected winners of To Have His Cake are... Marta and Rainakochan!!!!

Ladies, when it is convenient, please email me your email address so I can pass it on to P. O. Dixon!

Dreaming of Mr. Darcy - Victoria Connelly

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 07:06:45 PST

Sojourning in Jane Austen's Lyme

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

In the second Austen-inspired novel of her trilogy about Jane Austen addicts, Victoria Connelly once again transports readers to a Jane Austen location that is on every Janeites' list of places visit. Lyme Regis, a seaside village known for its fossils, Cobb, and Louisa Musgrove's fictional fall, is the ideal setting for this novel about fresh starts and broken hearts. It is also the location of a new big screen production of Persuasion. It seems the quiet village of Lyme Regis is being invaded by actors, actresses, directors, and producers, as well as romance, excitement, and action...

Similar to A Weekend With Mr. Darcy, Ms. Connelly creates a dual plot story where the point-of-view shifts between each of the three main characters. This time though, it felt like a lot more page time and emphasis was place on one couple than the other. The three main characters are: Kay, our resident Jane Austen addict who is the proud new owner of a charming bed and breakfast appropriately dubbed Wentworth House; Adam, a quiet and unassuming screenwriter whose dream of producing Persuasion is finally becoming a reality; and Gemma, a talented but reluctant actress living in the shadow of her famous mother.

While I greatly enjoyed reading about these characters, their trials, and their developments, I must admit to feeling slightly disappointed with Kay. I didn't mind her being a head-in-the-clouds-romantic (I am too), but I just felt she was a tad slow on the uptake. Talk about being blind! I did sympathize with her misguided notions and dashed hopes, but she had several pretty big red flags that she chose to ignore... Another small quibble I had with this novel was that the romance felt a little rushed. It seemed like some characters were falling in love after two mere conversations. In this case, it's not just the lady's imagination that was very rapid...

However, what I deeply loved about this book and its predecessor was the thrilling and tangible feel of physically being in each Austenesque location! Through her skillful writing, Victoria Connelly adroitly and effortlessly enables her readers to taste the tangy salt air, feel the spray and brisk wind, visualize the charming boutiques and village shops, and lose myself in the ever-changing colors of the sea. Because of Ms. Connelly's exceptionally vivid descriptions I feel like I've actually been to Lyme Regis!

Other aspects of this book that I took great pleasure include: the gentle nods to characters and incidents in Persuasion and Emma; learning about Kay's artistic pursuits, (I want a copy of The Illustrated Darcy!); and Nana Craig, who is Adam's outspoken, eccentric, and adorable grandmother. She is a dear!

Written with exquisite detail and engaging plot twists this series is a MUST for any Janeite who loves to read and longs to travel! So far this series has taken us to Hampshire and Lyme Regis, and I believe the last book in this marvelous trilogy, Mr. Darcy Forever (April 2012), will take us to Bath! I can hardly wait!

Austenesque Novel Finds #10

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:53:28 PST

Midnight in Austenland

Author - Shannon Hale
Type of Austenesque Novel - Austen-Inspired, Mystery, Contemporary Fiction
Release Date - January 31st, 2012
Pages - 288
Available in - Hardcover
Available at - amazon.com and bn.com

from goodreads.com
When Charlotte Kinder treats herself to a two-week vacation at Austenland, she happily leaves behind her ex-husband and his delightful new wife, her ever-grateful children, and all the rest of her real life in America. She dons a bonnet and stays at a country manor house that provides an immersive Austen experience, complete with gentleman actors who cater to the guests' Austen fantasies.

Everyone at Pembrook Park is playing a role, but increasingly, Charlotte isn't sure where roles end and reality begins. And as the parlor games turn a little bit menacing, she finds she needs more than a good corset to keep herself safe. Is the brooding Mr. Mallery as sinister as he seems? What is Miss Gardenside's mysterious ailment? Was that an actual dead body in the secret attic room? And-perhaps of the most lasting importance-could the stirrings in Charlotte's heart be a sign of real-life love?

The follow-up to reader favorite Austenland provides the same perfectly plotted pleasures, with a feisty new heroine, plenty of fresh and frightening twists, and the possibility of a romance that might just go beyond the proper bounds of Austen's world. How could it not turn out right in the end?

MY THOUGHTS:

I loved the first book in this series, Austenland when I read it three years ago!
Sounds like there is a good deal of mystery and intrigue!
A brooding Mr. Mallery? I love broody men!
I want to find out what this "romance that might just go beyond the proper bounds of Austen's world" is! Sounds steamy!
The cover is stunning!

What are your thoughts?

Previous Posts:
Austenesque Novel Finds #9 - Definitely Not Mr. Darcy
Austenesque Novel Finds #8 - A Modern Day Persuasion
Austenesque Novel Finds #7 - The Dashwood Sisters Tell All
Austenesque Novel Finds #6 - Wickham's Diary
Austenesque Novel Finds #5 - There Must Be Murder

To Have His Cake - P. O. Dixon + GIVEAWAY

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:14:54 PST

What If Elizabeth was a Paid Companion?

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

What if Elizabeth never met Darcy in Kent? What if Lydia ran off with Wickham soon after the Netherfield Ball? What if, in a horrific series of events, Lydia, Mr. Bennet, and Mr. Wickham all came to a harrowing and untimely demise?

In this unique and absorbing Pride and Prejudice variation, readers witness the great misfortune and social decline of the Bennet family. Mrs. Bennet's greatest fears are realized as she is forced to remove from Longbourn a mere month after the death of her husband and daughter. In addition, Jane and Elizabeth have no other alternative but to find posts as governesses. Jane accepts a post in Scotland, but Elizabeth has yet to find a suitable situation. Until Mr. Darcy comes along...

Upon hearing of the Bennets' fall from society and status, Mr. Darcy, feeling immense guilt for not exposing Wickham's true depravity, strives to find a way to protect and assist Elizabeth Bennet in her plight. While he is desperately in love with Elizabeth, Darcy vows that he could never marry her because of his duty to his family and Pemberley. And so, indulging in his selfish desire “to have his cake, and eat it too,” Darcy engages Elizabeth as Georgiana's companion. Sharing with her his home, his life, and his heart – but not his bed.

Similar to Kara Louise's Only Mr. Darcy Will Do and Abigail Reynolds' Mr. Darcy's Obsession, author P. O. Dixon explores the possibility of Elizabeth being in a diminished living situation when she re-encounters Mr. Darcy. I love these types of variations because Elizabeth is even more beneath Darcy's social status than before! It really does test his love for her! I enjoyed witnessing how Darcy and Elizabeth developed an amicable, albeit atypical, friendship with each other. But what I really loved was seeing their electrically charged disputes and disagreements! So much tension! So much restrained emotions!

One aspect I took great pleasure in was the development of Darcy's character. Since there was no proposal and rejection in Hunsford, Darcy has yet to transform. He is even more insufferably proud and controlling! As you can imagine, this doesn't sit well with Elizabeth. I loved witnessing Darcy's journey through confusion, aggravation, acceptance, dejection, and finally resolve.

I admit I was slightly disappointed that poor Bingley and Jane's fates weren't as happy and fortunate as Lizzy and Darcy's. But I guess everyone can't be gifted a happily ever after! Regardless, I found To Have His Cake (and Eat it Too) to be an imaginative, emotional, and exhilarating variation of Pride and Prejudice. And it looks like there is more in store! Dixon's next novel, What He Would Not Do is a sequel to this one!

NOTE: Readers who wish to avoid intimate scenes and descriptions should be advised of the inclusion of several passionate and amorous scenes in the last fifty pages of this novel. In addition, in this variation Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam are more rakish and frequent an establishment called Madame Adele's.

GIVEAWAY!!! P. O. Dixon has kindly offered to TWO digital copies of To Have His Cake (and Eat it Too) for me to give away to TWO lucky winners!

All you have to do is leave a comment on this review. (To save your inbox from unwanted spam, please don't leave your email address.) Just check back to see if you win! This giveaway is open worldwide. Thank you, P. O. Dixon!!

This contest will end January 12! Thank you for entering and best of luck!

This is my first completed item for the Explore the Many Genres of Jane Austen Spinoffs 2012 Reading Challenge hosted by Shanna @ Existings Tricky!

A Comprehensive Guide to Austenesque Novels - Pride and Prejudice (Part 6)

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 11:05:14 PST

Now that 2011 has officially come to a close, I think it is time to post the comprehensive list for Pride and Prejudice novels published in the year 2011. As you will be able to see, the list is long! Just look at the growing trend of the last 4 years!

2008 - 28 Pride and Prejudice novels published

2009 - 38 Pride and Prejudice novels published

2010 - 51 Pride and Prejudice novels published

2011 - 59 Pride and Prejudice novels published

I'm so pleased by the growing trend and hope the genre of Austenesque literature continues to flourish! I can hardly wait to see what 2012 has in store!

Some of these novels may be new to you, when researching this list I found a bunch that I didn't know about! Please let me know if I am missing any novels from my list. Some of the most popular Austenesque authors had quite a prolific year in 2011! Abigail Reynolds published 4 Pride and Prejudice related works and Mary Simonsen published 8 Pride and Prejudice related works this year! Isn't that amazing?!?

*The titles that have highlighted links are the ones I have read and reviewed on this blog.

Austenesque Novels for Pride and Prejudice (Part 6)

2011

- Mr. Darcy's Proposal by Susan Mason-Milks V

Key:

V - Variation

MA - Mature Audience

S - Sequel

N - Novella

AU - Alternate Universe

SS - Short Story

RP - Retelling/Point-of-View

P - Paranormal

TT - Time Travel

PR - Prequel

YA - Young Adult

M - Modern Adaptation

MY - Mystery

Which novels have you read in 2011?

Any recommendations?

Any on your TBR list?

The 2011 Austenesque Reviews End of the Year Summary and Awards!

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 11:31:54 PST

We are at that time again! Time to say goodbye to 2011 and say hello to 2012! I always love reflecting on the previous year and all that took place. For me and my little blog, it has been an extremely busy and exciting year! In 2011: I hosted my first month-long blog event, Austenesque Extravaganza, connected with many new wonderful Austenesque readers, participated in 2 reading challenges, signed up for Dear Jane where I have been enjoying correspondence with my lovely penpal in Belgium! Oh yeah, and I read my fair share of exemplary Austenesque novels.

What defines "fair share," you ask? 62! 62 novels read and reviewed this yea!. Of these, 55 are Austenesque. Yes, some may say I have a narrow reading scope! But really there are so many Austenesque novels being published EVERY month that it is hard to find time to read anything else! It is all I can do to keep up!

So do you want to know which books receive my highest accolades and recommendations? Here they are!

Summary for 2011

Of the 62 novels I've read, here is the breakdown:

11 - Pride and Prejudice Variations

8 - Pride and Prejudice Sequels

7 - Austen-Inspired Novels

7 - Non-Austenesque Novels

6 - Mystery Novels

6 - Nonfiction/Reference Books

4 - Paranormal Novels

4 - Modern Adaptations

4 - Young Adult

3 - Retelling/Point-of-Views

2 -Non-Pride and Prejudice Sequels

Austenesque Awards for 2011

Favorite Jane Austen Related Mystery

Murder Most Persuasive by Tracy Kiely

- Book 3 in Tracy Kiely's wonderful Austenesque mystery series, as you may have guess, this on parallels Persuasion.

Favorite Pride and Prejudice Sequel

The Unexpected Miss Bennet by Patrice Sarath and Christmas at Pemberley by Regina Jeffers

- Two very different novels! The Unexpected Miss Bennet gives Mary Bennet a chance to shine and Christmas at Pemberley was filled with great meaning and many delightful subplots! Honorable mentions go to Pemberley Celebrations by Kara Louise and Caroline Bingley by Jennifer Becton, both were incredibly well done!

Favorite Non-Pride and Prejudice Sequel

Nachtstürm Castle by Emily C. A. Snyder

- YES! I loved seeing Henry and Catherine as newlyweds and of course they stumble upon a Gothic adventure!

Favorite Modern Adaptation

Fitzwilliam Darcy, Rock Star by Heather Lynn Rigaud and Persuade Me by Juliet Archer

- Oh boy, there was no way I could decide between these two! I loved them so very much! Fitzwilliam Darcy, Rock Star was a little bit of naughty fun and Persuade Me just had such excellet tension and emotional build up.

Favorite Young Adult Jane Austen Related Novel

Pride and Popularity by Jenni James

- Very excited about this series for Young Adult! Pride and Popularity was an extremely engaging adaptation of Pride and Prejudice for Young Adult readers! Best I read so far!

Favorite Austen-Inspired Novel

According to Jane by Marilyn Brant

Not a new release for 2011, but new for me! I finally go the chance to read it and oh-my-goodness was it well worth the wait!! I adored Ellie and desperately wish I had Jane Austen in my head!

Favorite Retelling/Point-of-View of a Jane Austen Novel

Henry Tilney's Diary by Amanda Grange

- My new favorite for this remarkable series! I loved seeing everything from Henry's point-of-view!

Favorite Non-Austenesque Novel

Nocturne by Syrie James

- Once again this award goes to Syrie James, one of my favorite authors! Last year I adored her Dracula, My Love, this year her evocative paranormal romance, Nocturne. (Syrie James has one an Austenesque award every year so far!)

Favorite Nonfiction/Reference

In the Garden with Jane Austen by Kim Wilson

- How I wish I had the patience and the time to create a garden like Jane Austen's garden a Chawton Cottage. Filled with facts, history, and beautiful illustrations, this book is fantastic!

Favorite Pride and Prejudice Variation

Only Mr. Darcy Will Do by Kara Louise

- My favorite genre for Austenesque novels and the one I most frequently read from this year! Soooo many wonderful stories about Darcy and Lizzy falling in love! I greatly enjoyed the interesting premise Kara Louise created for this variation! Honorable mentions go to Mr. Darcy and the Secret of Becoming a Gentleman by Maria Hamilton and Mr. Darcy's Proposal by Susan Mason-Milks.

Favorite Jane Austen Paranormal

Mr. Darcy's Bite by Mary Simonsen

- Mr. Darcy as a werewolf! Mary Simonsen creates such wonderful characters, Lord Fitzwilliam is definitely a favorite of mine!

What about you dear readers?

What Austenesque awards would you give?

Previous Awards: 2009, 2010

Winner of Henry Tilney's Diary Giveaway!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 10:23:31 PST

I'd like to thank Erin from Berkley Books for so kindly giving me the opportunity to host a giveaway of Amanda Grange's lovely book! How I adored Henry Tilney's Diary!

Thank you to all of you who stopped by to enter the giveaway!!! I highly urge you all to check out Amanda Grange's splendid Austen Men Retellings, if you have not done so alread. They are truly an enormous gift to the Austenesque genre.

Without further ado... the randomly selected winner of Henry Tilney's Diary is... Beth!!!

Beth, when it is convenient, please email me your mailing address!

Jane Austen's Christmas - Maria Hubert

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 20:50:26 PST

Can Someone Do a Redo for this Please?

Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars

In between reading Austenesque Christmas novels and purchasing Austen-Inspired gifts for their loved ones, the only thing needed to complete your Janeite Christmas (besides Mr. Darcy under the tree) is discovering how our beloved authoress celebrated the Christmas season. Did she deck the halls? Exchange gifts? Sing carols? We know that over the years customs have changed and new traditions have developed, but are there any similarities between Jane Austen's festive season and ours?

Included in this compilation are the excerpts from Jane Austen's novels, letters, and Juvenilia in which Christmas is mentioned. Most of these are obscure references where Christmas is casually mentioned, often not providing much enlightenment of Georgian Christmas traditions. This dearth of material unfortunately makes Maria Hubert's compilation about Jane Austen's Christmas a brief and uninformative one. To supplement the lack of material from the Austen family, Ms. Hubert includes excerpts of poems, letters, and diary entries from poet Robert Southey and clergyman William Holland amongst others. While I did enjoy Southey's poems, I felt Reverend Holland's diary entries a little bit ill-fitting and uninteresting. Poor Reverend Holland seems a glum person and his diary entries reflect little joy or excitement for the holiday season.

Besides the lack of material, my other complaint for this compilation is its disorganization. There appears to be no order or sense to the entires and excerpts. I would have loved to have seen thematic chapters or some type of structure in this collection. Perhaps a chapter designated for each aspect of the holiday season (i.e. music, games, food, etc.). In addition, I would have greatly appreciated an index or some sort of appendix at the end, which are included in most resourceful reference books.

Now I don't fault Maria Hubert for the lack of recorded material and data about the Austen family's Christmas traditions; that is something she has no control over. But I do wish she went another direction with her supplemental text. Her audience is most likely readers who love and admire Jane Austen and are curious about how she celebrated Christmas. If there isn't enough information about the Austens, broaden the scope! Illustrate the traditional festivities and customs of typical Georgian families. The Austens were most likely similar to most average families of their time.

Bottom line: I would love for a redo of this book! I think discovering how the Austen's celebrated Christmas is a subject of much interest to Austen admirers, but unfortunately this compilation does not deliver! I see that Maria Hubert has compiled several other Christmas collections, I would love to read A Brontë Christmas and Christmas in Shakespeare's England, but since they are out of print and reviewers on Goodreads said basically the same thing I did about Jane Austen's Christmas, I might hold off.

Explore the Many Genres of Jane Austen Spinoffs 2012 Reading Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 06:30:01 PST

January 1st, 2012 - December 31st, 2012

Hosted by Shanna of Existing's Tricky

Fellow blogger and Janeite, Shanna Sandomen is hosting her very own Jane Austen Reading Challenge this year and I am eager to participate! In this reading challenge we are asked to explore the many genres of Austenesque literature - something I do on a daily basis!!

I love that this challenge is broken down into different sub-genres! I think it will be fun to participate in this challenge, and frankly, a no brainer for me!

Here are the eight sub genres. Participants are supposed to select on book from each genre.

Variation

Sequel

Jane Austen as a Fictional Character

Paranormal

Modern Adaptation

Mystery

Supporting Characters

Books by Jane Austen

Just looking at my ENORMOUS TBR pile in my bookcase, I see that I will definitely read books in 7 out of the 8 genres in the next few months! (This also gives you an idea of what reviews you will soon see posted here!)

Variation
- Mr. Darcy's Letter by Abigail Reynolds
- An Arranged Marriage by Jan Hahn
- His Good Opinion by Nancy Kelley
- Darcy on the Hudson by Mary Simonsen
- Remembrance of the Past by Lory Lilian
- Captain Wentworth Home from the Sea by Mary Simonsen

Sequel
- Letters from Pemberley by Jane Dawkins
- More Letters from Pemberley by Jane Dawkins

Jane Austen as a Fictional Character
- The Lost Years of Jane Austen by Barbara Ker Wilson

Paranormal
- Austentatious by Alyssa Goodnight
- Mr. Darcy, Vampyre by Amanda Grange

Modern Adaptations
- Northanger Alibi by Jenni James
- Compuslively Mr. Darcy by Nina Benneton
- In the Past Imperfect by Isabelle Solal
- Pride, Prejudice and Jasmin Field by Melissa Nathan
- The Dashwood Sisters' Secrets of Love by Rosie Rushton

Supporting Characters
- An Unlikely Missionay by Skylar Hamilton Burris
- Lydia Bennet's Story by Jane Odiwe
- A Match for Mary Bennet by Eucharista Ward
- Deborah by Jane Gillespie

Books by Jane Austen

- Pride and Prejudice: An Annotated Edition by Jane Austen and Patricia Meyer Spacks

Of course there will be more books added as I acquire them. These are just the ones I currently have in my possession!

Don't you think this would be a fun challenge to join? You don't need a blog, you can just join the group on Goodreads!

I hope to see you there!

Henry Tilney's Diary - Amanda Grange + (GIVEAWAY!!!)

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 17:16:02 PST

Definitely Worth the Wait!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Ever since I read Mr. Darcy's Diary in 2008, I have admired Amanda Grange's Austen Men Retellings. Having read and enjoyed all of Ms. Grange's previous retellings, I was most anxious to read Henry Tilney's Diary – after all, he is Jane Austen's most entertaining and charming hero! The two year period between Ms. Grange's last novel in this series (Colonel Brandon's Diary) and Henry Tilney's Diary was long, but the wait was definitely worth it! Henry Tilney's Diary is my new favorite in the series, usurping my previous favorite, Colonel Brandon's Diary.

What do I love so much about Henry Tilney's Diary and Colonel Brandon's Diary? Their back-stories. I love that both stories start prior to to Jane Austen's novel, making these diaries not only a retelling, but also a prequel. Captain Wentworth's Diary also provides an intriguing back-story. Henry Tilney's Diary opens in the year 1790 when Henry was at the young age of sixteen. Through these early diary entries readers are able to witness Henry's relationship with his mother, understand how Frederick became a cold-hearted deviant, and discover where Henry acquired his penchant for fine muslin and Gothic novels. I especially loved seeing Henry's close relationship with his sister!

Even though these novels are labeled as “diaries” and dates are recorded with each entry, they really are more of a retelling than an actual diary. While he does record his musings, reflections, and daily pursuits, Henry devotes a lot of his diary to recounting full conversations and quoting book excerpts;

things you normally don't find in diaries. At around 270 pages and covering the spans of four months and one year, readers should not expect a very fleshed-out story with a lot of details. The novels by Pamela Aidan, Barbara Cornthwaite, and Susan Kaye provide more character development and detail, but this series is ideal if you are looking for a light and delightful retelling of your favorite Jane Austen novel.

I absolutely loved watching Henry fall in love with Catherine! I know some scholars have questioned whether Henry and Catherine are suitably matched (of course they are!), and evidently Amanda Grange is of the same mind. Ms. Grange beautifully illustrates how Henry, jaded and wary of women who flirt, employ artifice, and play games, becomes enamored with Catherine's open innocence and honesty. Although there may be differences in intellect and experience between them, Henry finds Catherine refreshingly adorable and endearing. (Henry Tilney is a lot like my husband, they both have a fondness for cuteness in their women!)

*Sigh* I just love Henry Tilney, and I adored Amanda Grange's portrayal of him! I sincerely hope to see more retellings from Amanda Grange in the future – perhaps she will be inspired to write about Edward Ferrars or Charles Bingley! One can only hope!

GIVEAWAY!!! Berkley Books has kindly donated a brand new paperback copy and of Henry Tilney's Diary for me to giveaway!!

All you have to do is leave a comment on this review. (To save inbox from unwanted spam, please don't leave your email address.) Just check back to see if you win! This giveaway is open to residents in the US and Canada. Thank you, Berkley Books!!

This contest will close December 27th. Good luck and thank you for entering!

Winner of the The Unexpected Miss Bennet Giveaway!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 11:43:48 PST

I'd like to thank Erin from Berkley Books for so kindly giving me the opportunity to host a giveaway of Patrice Sarath's lovely book! The Unexpected Miss Bennet is definitely one of my favorite books this year!

Thank you to all of you who stopped by to enter the giveaway!!! I loved hearing all the positive (and not so positive) things you had to say about Mary! I am glad we all agree that she deserves her chance at being a heroine!

Without further ado... the randomly selected winner of The Unexpected Miss Bennet is... Margaret!!!

Margaret, when it is convenient, please email me your mailing address!

Pemberley Celebrations: The First Year - Kara Louise

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 04:48:40 PST

Darcy and Elizabeth as Newlyweds!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

As most married couples will tell you, the first year of marriage is not only a time of love, happiness, and romance, but also a time of adjustment, discovery, and compromise. For some people, the first year of marriage is challenging, for others it is like being on an extended honeymoon. For Darcy and Elizabeth, it is a time of establishing traditions, making memories, and melding their two diverse lives into one.

In Kara Louise's lovely Pride and Prejudice sequel Pemberley Celebrations readers will find thirteen short stories that illustrate how Darcy and Elizabeth celebrate their first year together. We witness familiar celebrations, such as: Christmas, New Year's Eve, Valentine's Day, Easter, All Hallows' Eve, and their Anniversary, and some not so familiar, such as May Day, Midsummer's Day, and Michaelmas, (which looked like fun, I think I should initiate a Midsummer's Day celebration in my town!)

I absolutely love reading novels by Kara Louise! Darcy's Voyage and Only Mr. Darcy Will Doare amongst my favorite Austenesque novels! I adore her writing style, accurate renderings of characters, clever plot twists, and ability to create intriguing and romantic stories about Darcy and Elizabeth! I love that through the midst of celebrations and festivities Darcy and Elizabeth still had their misunderstandings, disputes, and battle of wits. The journey through their first year of marriage was plausibly filled with highs and lows, differences and compromises. In addition, I took great pleasure in the inclusion of Elizabeth's and Darcy's family in their festivities and holidays. I was so happy to see more of the Bennets, Bingleys, Collins, and the de Bourghs!

What I love about this compilation is that you can read it all at once (like I did) or read it in concurrence with each holiday (like I plan on doing). For example, on Valentine's Day you can read the Valentine's Day story, on Easter, the Easter story, etc. I'm really looking forward to rereading Kara Louise's charming novelettes throughout the year, what a great way to incorporate some Jane Austen into my holiday celebrations!

With so many remarkable stories to chose from, it's hard to pick a favorite! But I must mention that I found the “Valentine's Day” and “A First Anniversary” to be the most romantic and “All Hallow's Eve” to be the most imaginative. However, to put it simply, I loved each and every one of these beautiful, meaningful, and heartwarming tales! I highly recommend Pemberley Celebrations to all readers who want to witness Darcy and Elizabeth as newlyweds!

Winner of Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Darcy Double Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:40:26 PST

I'd like to extend a big thank you to Barbara Tiller Cole for so kindly participating in my Austenesque Christmas Season and answering my numerous questions! It was a special treat to have you here Barbara, thank you for taking the time to visit my blog. I also want to thank Barbara for her wonderful generosity in contributing TWO copies of Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Darcy for me to give away!

Thank you to all of you who stopped by to read Barbara's lovely interview and my review of Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Darcy!!!

Without further ado... the randomly selected winners of Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Darcy are... StilettoStorytime and Faith Hope & Cherrytea!!!

Ladies, when it is convenient, please email me your mailing address!

Giveaway of The Unexpected Miss Bennet!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 22:00:12 PST

Several months ago I had the great pleasure of "meeting" author Patrice Sarath through Austenesque Extravaganza. I was so pleased to have Patrice take part in a Touring Thursday and a Sociable Sunday! Soon after that she asked me to read and review her novel The Unexpected Miss Bennet, which was currently only out in the UK. Being that the novel's subject was Mary Bennet, I was most curious to see what she would be like as a heroine and I happily agreed to her request.

My review for The Unexpected Miss Bennet posted in October. I completely loved seeing Mary as a heroine, she stole my heart! And Patrice Sarath's writing was superb! You can read more of my thoughts if you follow this link.

Now Patrice Sarath's beautiful novel has been released in the US and the kind people at Berkley Books have bestowed upon me the opportunity to host a giveaway for it on my blog!!!

How can you be the lucky winner?

- Just leave a comment on this post answering either one of these two questions:
What do you like most about Mary Bennet?
What do you like least about Mary Bennet?

To save your inbox from unwanted spam, please don't leave your email address. Just check back to see if you win! This giveaway is opened to all residents in US and Canada!

Best of luck to all who enter, this giveaway will close December 18th!

Christmas at Pemberley - Regina Jeffers

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 14:30:25 PST

Christmas Cheer and Celebrations with the Darcys!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars!

A Pemberley Christmas, sounds picturesque doesn't it? I can just see the festive greenery gracing the halls, the gathering of friends and family, the delightful diversions such as charades and ice skating, the sumptuous feasts... This is the lovely and charming image of yuletide merriment Regina Jeffers presents us with in her Christmas Pride and Prejudice sequel with one slight change... Darcy and Elizabeth aren't there! Don't fret, Darcy and Elizabeth are still in the novel (they are the main characters after all), they are just not home at Pemberley (although they are expected).

Because Darcy and Elizabeth have yet to return from their business trip, poor Georgiana must act as a stand-in hostess, receiving both the expected and unexpected guests! After living with Elizabeth for two years, Georgiana has shed some her shyness so playing hostess isn't as insurmountable a task as it once was. But with guest such as Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Mrs. Bennet, and Caroline Bingley all under one roof, even the most seasoned hostess might find it challenging to maintain the peace. It looks like Georgiana's troubles are greatly lessoned when yet another unexpected visitor turns up, and he just happens to be the man she secretly and ardently admires...

This novel has it all! A meaningful message, Christmas cheer and celebration, scandals and intrigue, engagements and births, and a profusion of romance! As always, Regina Jeffers beautifully and realistically portrays a tender and devoted marriage between Darcy and Elizabeth, and they're not the only ones in love in this sequel! Being the hopeless romantic that I am, I loved all these tender touches and fervent declarations. (*While there are kissing scenes and talk of passionate intimacies, this novel does not display any graphic or explicit scenes*)

Another aspect of Christmas at Pemberley that I loved was the quantity and variety of story-lines. The major storylines: Darcy and Elizabeth at the inn and Georgiana managing Pemberley's guests receive the most page time and weave back and forth with each other; while other little story-lines are peppered throughout the novel. I felt each storyline was well-developed, diverting, and in keeping with Jane Austen's original characters and time period. Don't worry about there being too many characters and stories! These story-lines were well-organized and presented in a way that makes it easy to keep track of all the many characters and plots. I really enjoyed following each story, seeing the development of characters, witnessing all the twists and turns, and observing all the satisfying conclusions. And it looks like the one or two stories that aren't resolved will be continued in Regina Jeffer's next novel The Disappearance of Georgiana Darcy. I can't wait to read it!

So if you find yourself with a moment to spare in between decking the halls, hanging stockings with care, and making merry, I highly recommend Christmas at Pemberley! A magnificent blend of Jane Austen, Christmas, and romance!

Winner of the Pemberley Celebrations Giveaway!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:05:24 PST

I'd like to extend a big thank you to Kara Louise for not only sending me a review copy of Pemberley Celebrations, but for also stopping by Austenesque Reviews and contributing a guestpost! I also am most delighted to have had the opportunity to host a giveaway of Pemberley Celebrations for my readers! Thanks again, Kara!

Thank you to all of you who stopped by to read Kara's lovely post!!! I hope you all get a chance of reading Pemberley Celebrations for yourself! Trust me, you'll love it!

Without further ado... the randomly selected winner of Pemberley Celebrations is... Janet T!!!

Janet, when it is convenient, please email me your mailing address!

Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Darcy - Barbara Tiller Cole

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 18:24:36 PST

Darcy as Scrooge? YES!

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Because of Elizabeth's silence upon his return to Meryton, Fitzwilliam Darcy does not tarry or renew his addresses. Assuming Elizabeth was avoiding him and unable to forgive him, Darcy keeps his silence. Instead, full of despair and self-loathing, Darcy retreats to Pemberley where he nurses his broken heart with strong drink and solitude. Refusing Bingley's invitations, sending Georgiana to Matlock, and giving the servants a holiday, Darcy intends to spend Christmas with his failures, his agony, and his dashed dreams. Fortunately for Darcy, three Christmas Spirits set out to alter the desolate and destructive path he is on by visiting him one strange and profound December night...

Uniting the supernatural spirits and Christmas message of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol with the characters and humor of Jane Austen, Barbara Tiller Cole presents a Christmas novella that is the perfect companion for a chilly night in front of the fire! Darcy made an excellent, albeit more brooding and romantic Scrooge, and I greatly enjoyed seeing everything from his perspective. It was heartrending to see Darcy tortured by the visions of his past and terrified of how bleak the future could be for his loved ones.

Although Darcy's visions are full of darkness, death, and despair, the three Christmas Spirits bring an abundance of light, cheer, and good humor to this tale. Even the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come! I enjoyed Darcy's relationship with all three ghosts, especially the Ghost of Christmas Present! She was a hoot! While I enjoyed the lightheartedness and satire of the Christmas Spirits, I did sometimes find their conversation a little too frank and discomfiting. Especially the scene in the epilogue, it was a tad awkward.

Engaging, entertaining, and filled with good cheer Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Darcy is a wonderful way to start the Christmas season! In the paperback edition, which is actually Large Print, the novella comes to about 150 pages, making it possible for you to read this novella in one sitting. And because of the more lighthearted and satirical tone of this novel, this novel will be a fun escape. (Be prepared to suspend disbelief a little and enjoy a few laughs with this tale.)

If you are looking for Christmas ideas for your Janeite friends, why not gift them Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Darcy? Or, maybe ask for it on your Christmas wishlist!

GIVEAWAY!!! Thanks to Barbara Tiller Cole, I have one BRAND NEW copy of Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Scrooge to giveaway to one of you lucky readers!

All you have to do is leave a comment on this review! (To save your inbox from unwanted spam, please don't leave your email address.) Just check back to see if you win! Fortunately for our interntational friends, this giveaway is open worldwide. Thank you, Barbara!!

Want to DOUBLE your chances of winning? Check out my interview with Author Barbara Tiller Cole and leave a comment!

This contest ends December 11th. Thank you for entering and best of luck!

Interview + Giveaway with Author Barbara Tiller Cole

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 16:37:57 PST

Austenesque Reviews is excited to welcome Barbara Tiller Cole, who has graciously answered some questions of mine about writing, Jane Austen, and her novella Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Darcy. Thank you so very much, Barbara, for your time and participation in this interview. Let's start by talking about where and when did you first discover Jane Austen? What do you love most about Jane Austen's writing?

From an early age my mother encouraged me to improve my mind by extensive reading, and I was most often found with my head in a book. I first read Pride and Prejudice in my high school humanities class, and I fell in love with Austen’s work. After reading all of Austen’s novels while in high school, my mother and I managed to find a few Jane Austen sequels even back then (and no, I am not going to tell you when back then was, as we ladies never give away our true age).

The next time I read her works was after I had major surgery in the year 2000. A friend loaned me her VCR tape version of the BBC/A&E Pride and Prejudice mini series. I DO know I can attribute my restored health, at least in part, to being able to watch Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy over and over. I, again, read ALL of Jane Austen’s novels during my recovery, and then found Austen sequels and online communities. My obsession was born, and this recovery period created my desire to write.

As to what I like best, that is a simple answer—Mr. Darcy. As to Miss Austen’s style of writing—I love her use of wit and impertinence in observation of her characters and class struggles of the period.

I understand you are fan of Charles Dickens, and a great admirer of A Christmas Carol. What do you like most about A Christmas Carol?

I love the transformation of character that occurs during the ghostly visitations to Scrooge. Dickens’ characterizations and transformational process are a fascinating study. What I like the most is how many variations of the original have come into existence. Each holiday, I look for more opportunities to watch TV and movie versions of A Christmas Carol.

What inspired you to write a Christmas story combining Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice and Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol?
I love holiday movies, and in 2008 I watched at least ten different versions of A Christmas Carol over a long weekend. I called it the ‘Christmas Carol Festival’ at the time. From George C. Scott to Susan Lucci, and Kelsey Grammer to Jim Carrey, I enjoyed the portrayals. It was during the Bill Murray version—called Scrooged—that I thought of doing this story. It was the Ghost of Christmas Past that solidified my vision for the story. I hope that, as in Scrooged, my story has the right touch of lightness and humor to complement the transformation of Darcy’s character, as —like Elizabeth Bennet—I dearly love to laugh.

I know this may be obvious being that he is the hero of Pride and Prejudice, but why choose Darcy as your Ebenezer Scrooge?
First of all, Mr. Darcy is Pride and Prejudice to me and Fitzwilliam Ebenezer in my story needs just as dramatic of a transformation as did Ebenezer Scrooge in Dickens novel. My hero does not have the character of Ebenezer Scrooge. He is NOT a miser. He is not determined to ONLY work and make money, and he does not abuse those who work for him. However, he is miserable and isolated from family by his own choice. He has failed to attain his first love and has given up on any hope of happiness. I won’t give everything away. However, during the course of the book Darcy sees himself and others in a new way because of the visitation of ghosts. He believes he has no choice other than change, just as Scrooge did in A Christmas Carol.

The story takes place the Christmas after he assisted in the Wickham wedding. So, he is not an old man. He is still the same handsome, rich man he was in the canon story. Yet, he has lost all hope and has fallen into miserable self-pity and inconsolable drunkenness. It is in this state of wretchedness that our ghosts visit him at Pemberley. So I chose Mr. Darcy because he was in such need of transformation.

What are three words you would use to describe your book?
Three separate words?

Transformational. Pathos. Awakening.

Or a three-word phrase?

Life-changing Ghostly Visitations.

*POSSIBLE SPOILER* In your novella, you had many visions, past, present, and future. Some came from Pride and Prejudice, and some are your own creation. Which vision(s) was your favorite? Which vision was the most challenging to write?
I liked all of my ghostly visions, but my favorite is Mrs. Pat. I will not give away in this interview who she is in the story, but once I created her character, I found myself wanting to use her again. I have considered having Mrs. Pat create another set of visitations for another Austen character. Time and my muse will tell if she ever sees the light of day again, but I know I would enjoy writing more of her.

The most difficult vision to create was the Ghost of Christmas Future. It was an emotional and heart rending experience to visualize what a possible history might have been for the main characters without this intervention. Also, writing about a ghost who does not talk can be tricky.

I can tell from your writing that you have a sense of humor! What makes you laugh? Which characters from Jane Austen's novel do you find the most comical?
Laughter has always been my best medicine. I found that humor could make me popular, and by the time I got to college, I was one of the class clowns. I have also been known to hide behind my humor from time to time, so I have to be careful with that in my daily life.

What makes me laugh most often is talking with someone who is self-effacing and willing to tell me about their own follies and missteps. For my day job, I am a therapist and work in the field of addiction treatment. A person who has faced great tragedy and adversity and has overcome addiction to find sobriety has a very unique way of sharing their story and I love to hear them be able to laugh at themselves.

As for Jane Austen’s comic relief, Mr. Collins is my favorite, followed by Lady Catherine and Caroline Bingley. The hero or heroine most likely to provide laughter for me is Emma.

Any possibility of a sequel to Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Darcy? It sounded like the Spirits had another person they wanted to visit...
I am considering it, Meredith. My muse hatches so many plot bunnies I have been considering opening a petting zoo. I would be interested to know if any of your readers would be interested in reading a story in which Lady Catherine had to face her ghosts. Currently, I am currently working on a modern Austen comedy. We shall see which fluffy bunny my muse attacks after completion of that tale.

Tell us a little about your other novel, White Lies and Other Half Truths, I understand it’s a variation of Pride and Prejudice. I'm a big fan of variations!
White Lies and Other Half Truths is a sexy romantic farce. As opposed to the family friendly classic of Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Darcy, it is not for a Pride and Prejudice purist who could never imagine Darcy and Elizabeth having premarital relations. Nor, is it for someone that does not like to laugh. Even the romantic scenes are intentionally over done for comedic effect. I find that people either LOVE it or do not like it at all.

As for the variations of the story, there are quite a few. There is a quicker resolution between Darcy and Elizabeth after the Netherfield Ball. Mr. Bennet has prior connections to the Darcy’s. Mr. and Mrs. Bennet find their way back to each other in a reformation of their characters. I kill off at least one character in a manner that has never been duplicated or considered. Last and certainly not least, Darcy and Elizabeth begin a passion filled life together.

What is next for you? I see you are working on a novel titled Elizabeth Bennet, Darcyholic. What's that story about?
Elizabeth Bennet, Darcyholic is a modern comedy. Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy are addicted to all things Jane Austen and their families independently intervene—sending them to attend Jane Austen Addicts Anonymous meetings. They meet there, and a rollicking series of events lead them into each other’s arms and on the lam. Writing this story is an opportunity to let my inner comedian loose.

If you could ask Jane Austen any question, what would it be?
The central romantic theme of your stories is the transformation of character in order to bring a man and woman together for a happy ending. Did you live in regret at not having your own happy ending, or did bringing true love to your characters allow you to live a content, fulfilled life?

Let's talk a little bit about Christmas! What are some of your favorite traditions or memories of this holiday?
Every holiday my father would gather us together to read A Christmas Carol. My mother would fix cider, and light her favorite cinnamon scented candle while we listened to the story. On the record player would be the Ray Coniff Orchestra’s holiday album. Later, we would gather around the TV to watch Bing Crosby in ‘White Christmas’, Jimmy Stewart in ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ and Natalie Wood in ‘Miracle on 34^th Street.’ These traditions continue for me today.

When I was in high school, Stone Mountain Park (outside of Atlanta) had a live nativity pageant every year on the walk up side of the mountain. I was chosen to play Mary. One night the donkey misbehaved, and took me on a wild ride all around mountain—while I was holding on to his mane for dear life. It was worth it on Christmas, however, when my picture as Mary ended up being on the cover of many newspapers.

More recently there was a holiday after I married that my husband and I had no money to give presents. We made gifts for each other and for our family. I didn’t even go shopping that year. I was able to feel the wonder and magic of Christmas without the commercial aspect.

Last year, I was in New York City for work two weeks in December. My husband joined me there, and each evening I was fascinated by looking at window displays, seeing Santa at Macy’s watching ice skating, smelling chestnuts roasting, experiencing a carriage ride through Central Park and special Holiday Broadway productions.

Meredith, I want to thank you again for taking the time to interview me. I appreciate your thought provoking questions.

GIVEAWAY!!! Thanks to Barbara Tiller Cole, I have one BRAND NEW copy of Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Scrooge to giveaway to one of you lucky readers!
All you have to do is leave a comment on this interview and share with your thoughts about Lady Catherine being Scrooge: YAY? or NAY? (To save your inbox from unwanted spam, please don't leave your email address.) Just check back to see if you win! Fortunately for our interntational friends, this giveaway is open worldwide. Thank you, Barbara!!

Want to DOUBLE your chances of winning? Come back tomorrow and check out my review of Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Darcy where I will be giving away a second copy of Barbara's lovely novel!

This contest ends December 11th. Thank you for entering and best of luck!

Winners of the Christmas at Pemberley Double Giveaway!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:44:19 PST

It was such a treat to have Regina Jeffers visit my blog and share with us her beautiful novel, Christmas at Pemberley! I'm so delighted that Regina was able to be a part of my Austenesque Christmas Season this year! Thank you Regina, for giving me an opportunity to host a double giveaway of Christmas at Pemberley! It is such a lovely novel and I'm so happy to choose some lucky winners!

Thank you to all of you who stopped by to read Regina's guestpost!!! I hope you all get a chance of reading Christmas at Pemberley for yourself! It's fantastic!

Without further ado... the randomly selected winners of Christmas at Pemberley are ... Rebecca (RivkaBelle) and Melissa!

Ladies, when it is convenient, please email me your mailing address!

A Jane Austen Holiday Wishlist 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Meredith) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 12:01:26 PST

Looking for something to buy your Janeite friends, Austenesque readers, or yourself this holiday season? Want some Jane Austen with your Christmas? I sure would!!! My most favorite gifts are the ones that relate to dear Jane! Whether it be a book, ornament, calendar, or apparel, I love finding an Austenesque gift under my Christmas tree!!!

Hopefully this handy list will help you discover all the lovely Austenesque treasures out there! And maybe even give your loved ones some ideas of what to buy for you! (You could slyly email them the link to this post...)

CHRISTMAS BOOKS:

- A Darcy Christmas by Carolyn Ebehart, Amanda Grange, and Sharon Lathan

- Christmas at Pemberley by Regina Jeffers (2011)

- Fitzwilliam Ebenezer Darcy by Barbara Tiller Cole (2011)

- Jane Austen's Christmas by Maria Hubert (1996)

- Pemberley Celebrations by Kara Louise (2011)

OTHER EXCEPTIONAL BOOK IDEAS:

- Austenatious Crochet by Melissa Horozewski (2011) I love to crochet, and Jane Austen crafts sounds like like a brilliant idea!

- Jane Austen Made Me Do It Edited by Laurel Ann Nattress (2011) A perfect introduction to Austenesque literature for your friends!

- In the Garden with Jane Austen and Tea with Jane Austen (2011) by Kim Wilson Beautiful, informative decadent books that any Janeite will enjoy!

- Persuasion: An Annotated Edition by Jane Austen, Edited by Robert Morrison (2011) For all the romantic people you know...

APPAREL:

- I just love these two shirts I found on zazzle.com!

Love the quote, the color, the font!

Yeah, you can have him!

STATIONARY:

Some lovely cards and bookmarks created by Masha Laurence of Antique Fashionista were featured in the Austenesque Extravaganza giveaway this year. And there are so many more to be found in Masha's etsy shop. Here's some of the ones I greatly admire and secretly want for myself! Aren't they just so beautiful?

Woodston Winter Night

Elizabeth and Darcy Bookmarks

Catherine Morland Bookmark

Elizabeth Bennet Bookmark

Pride and Prejudice Pemberley Print

UNIQUE TREASURES:

I heard about Bingley's Teas Limited on the blogsphere a while back, but never really checked them out. Until now...Wow! Their Jane Austen Tea Series looks INCREDIBLE! Not only do the blends sound delicious and soothing, but they match perfectly with the Jane Austen character for whom they are named. A bag of any Jane Austen Tea Series blend is sure to be an excellent gift for a fellow Janeite who enjoys this aromatic brew, perhaps you should pair it with Tea with Jane Austen by Kim Wilson?

What are my favorite blends? Judging by their ingredients, these are the blends I am most eager to try.

Marianne's Wild Abandon: "A blend of lively green and black teas with colorful flowers and passionate fruits that throw themselves together for a passionate combination! Candied fruits along with the vibrant flowers in this blend will entice you to run free and seek your heart's desire."- from bingleysteas.com

Longbourn Wedding Tea: "Sparkling Champagne flavor, Rose buds and Raspberry are dressed in a Lovely White Tea. Exquisite Silver Needle and pai mu tan white tea hold this blend that is sure to make a special moment whenever you share this tea! For very festive occasions, chill your Wedding tea with simple syrup and add to a glass of Champagne with rose petals."- from bingleysteas.com

Wicked Wickham: "Dashing tart flavor with a candy like after taste in a humble white tea. A tea with so much charm it may lead you into temptation! The naturally withered, Pai Mu Tan White Tea and Pomegranate are both reported to have many anti-oxidant health benefits. Wicked Wickham, how bad could he be?" - from bingleysteas.com

Compassion for Mrs. Bennet's Nerves: "A tisane of chamomile, peppermint, passion flower, rosehips, and lavender, sooth the most agitated of moments in a delicious cup. We recommend a touch of honey for added bliss!" - from bingleysteas.com

LOL! It's not every day that I pick Wickham and Mrs. Bennet over Elizabeth and Darcy!

Hope you found this list helpful for some Austenesque holiday gift ideas.

For more Austenesque gift ideas, check out:

A Jane Austen Holiday Wishlist 2009

A Jane Austen Holiday Wishlist 2010