As further evidence that I still have much to learn, I only found out today through a kind and informative Twitter comment that none of the original manuscripts of Jane Austen's six novels survived. We have just two alternative Persuasion chapters … [Read more...] about Losing my ignorance
Team Mrs Bennet or Mr Bennet?
Mr Bennet was so odd a mixture of quick parts, sarcastic humour, reserve, and caprice that the experience of three and twenty years had been insufficient to make his wife understand his character. (Click here to view at the Probably at the … [Read more...] about Team Mrs Bennet or Mr Bennet?
Adventures with Austen’s cheesecakes
At Devizes we had comfortable rooms, & a good dinner to which we sat down about 5; amongst other things we had Asparagus & a Lobster which made me wish for you, & some cheesecakes on which the children made so delightful a supper as to … [Read more...] about Adventures with Austen’s cheesecakes
Accidental Austen journeys
Now and then, fate raises her delicate hand and gently ushers you somewhere you didn't expect to be. And so it was a few weeks ago when holidaying in the UK. It was meant to be a couple of days walking the North Downs Way in Surrey with old … [Read more...] about Accidental Austen journeys
Meeting Jane (almost)
Writing Austenesque fiction means the ghost of Jane Austen always feels near. (Hopefully not preparing some deliciously cutting remark on the impropriety of this young* man who dares play with her characters.) Ms Austen never reveals herself, … [Read more...] about Meeting Jane (almost)
Why do you like Jane Austen?
It's a question I get asked a lot. Which is odd, because it's not as if Ms Austen is undiscovered or underrated. Nobody ever thinks to ask why I like novels by Terry Pratchett or Mark Lawrence. Or football. Or twiglets. Or even Poldark. … [Read more...] about Why do you like Jane Austen?