Driving in England

L. L. Diamond

February 22, 2016

Okay, if you’re from the UK, you’re probably wondering what the big deal is. Well, the main question I was asked after moving to England by my American friends was, “What is it like to drive there?” so I thought I’d write a post on it. I must admit that was some time ago that I first decided to write this, but I put it off. Lately, I haven’t been able to do much traveling with the weather and other factors which means, I am finally doing the driving post.

When we first arrived, we had to take a quick driving course. I say driving course, but they gave us a book of road laws we were supposed to read (translated: I read it and then corrected my husband because he never found the time to read it) and we had someone lecture us for about two hours. We then took a quick test and as long as we scored over 70%, we received our “drivers license” (I read the book and my husband scored better than I did. Of course, it doesn’t bother me one bit 😉 ). Mind you, this isn’t a UK drivers license. It’s a card with our cars listed by make, model, and colour that gives us the right to purchase gas/petrol on the US bases–a big deal when you look at the price difference and then calculate based on the current exchange rate! And just in case people didn’t know, gas is not sold here by the gallon but by the litre!

No shoulder! Kerbs!

Anyway, the first thing the instructor told us when he started was that if an animal jumps in front of your car, take it out. It’s you or the animal. When you look at the roads here, it really is! Roads rarely have a shoulder like in the United States (not even the motorways which are like our interstates), and on the edge they can have a curb/kerb, just grass, in some cases a dry fence (stones), or a hedgerow. If you try to swerve for an animal, you are likely to either wind up colliding with something on the side of the road or you hit another car head on. Not a fun prospect. In the fens, you also have huge ditches on either side of the road–I mean 15-20 feet deep in places. These fill up with water during rainy times, so a real hazard if you run off the road. We hear horror stories of people killed on those roads at times.

Now, I do say that he told us to take out the animal, but I admit it is hard. The first time I saw a muntjac (a tiny deer) that was about to jump out, I gripped the steering wheel and tried not to look at it as I waited for the impact. Fortunately, it didn’t come. I suppose he or she thought better of his harrowing plan to cross the busy road and turned back into the forest. I have seen enough on the side of the road to know that many don’t think better of their plan.

The other time I had a near wildlife tragedy, I was driving home late at night and caught a glimpse of something moving. I slammed on my brakes just shy of a tiny hedgehog crossing the road. My husband and I watched it cross while we chuckled at how cute it was, but he did fuss when the hedgehog was gone. After all, I was wrong. If it had been during the day, we would have probably been rear-ended since that road is quite busy.

Other than playing Carmageddon with the animals of the UK, driving here is simply an adjustment. In the US we have stop lights, here they have roundabouts. There are stop lights but they are not nearly as common as in the US.

In the US, we have stop signs and here, they “give way.” Give way road signs and symbols painted on the roads are everywhere. Stop signs are rare and if you see one, be careful because that is likely a dangerous intersection or a stop sign wouldn’t be there.

A similar question that I’m asked often is, “Is it weird to drive on the other side of the road?” Answer, yes, for a time. I think I had a longer adjustment since I drove a US spec car for a time and on occasion would drive my husband’s UK spec car. I was driving on the same side of the road, but swapping the driver’s seat. It was disconcerting. One day your driving and sitting on the side of the road and the other on the centre line. I recently sold my US spec car and bought a UK spec, so I don’t have that problem anymore. It’s nice that we’re allowed to bring over one car from the United States, but driving it here is another issue. I had a Honda Odyssey, which was tight to manoeuvre in car parks (parking lots) and long for most of the parking spaces. The worst was when my teenage daughter decided she was going to ride in the front seat. Because of the lack of shoulder, a lot of people hug the centre line and cross it quite often on some roads. It scared me to death having her sit in the front passenger’s seat of a US model car. Too many lorries (lorry can be anything from an 18-wheeler to a garbage truck) and large vans that will hog the road when it narrows. I still feel pushed to the side at times, but at least I’m on the centre line and not her!

Another problem with US cars here is overtaking (passing). You can’t see around the car in front of you from the side of the road, and often people pull out around the vehicle in front to see if their clear. A lot of US cars get in bad head-on collisions this way. You can also say, well, I won’t pass, but it’s not realistic. We have to go around huge tractors on rural roads as well as cars parked in the craziest of places at times. There is no way to live here without passing.

I don’t know if I’ve answered most people’s questions (if you had any to begin with), but feel free to ask me in the comments if there is something I haven’t mentioned. There are a few other questions I get asked, but I will save that for another post. How to use a roundabout for example… well, I’ll explain that next time 🙂

Winner of the Accusing Elizabeth Giveaway!

L. L. Diamond

5 comments

February 19, 2016

The winners of the four

Accusing Elizabeth

ebooks are…

Carole in Canada

Dung

My Yellow Kitchen

and

Debbie Fortin!

Congratulations!

I’d also like to say thanks so much to Jennifer Joy for your great interview and to everyone who contributed!

Now, for March, get your questions ready because

next month’s Ask the Author victim is

Katie Oliver!

Katie’s third Jane Austen Factor book, Who Needs Mr. Willoughby, is available for pre-order and releases on March 24th!

I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait!

Call for questions posts March 7th!

Jennifer Joy’s interview is in!

L. L. Diamond

27 comments

February 15, 2016

Jennifer Joy has answered your questions!

I won’t bore you with a long introduction, so let’s get to it.

Is your personality more like Elizabeth Bennet, Elinor Dashwood, Anne Elliott, or Jo March?
(J Dawn King)

Jo March. She lived by her imagination even before she began writing and she wasn’t afraid to leave the comfort and security of her family to pursue her dream. I can identify with that.

Would you describe yourself as an accomplished woman?
(J Dawn King)

If we’re using Caroline Bingley’s definition of an accomplished woman… not so much.

Other than writing, what is the skill you possess that you are proudest of?
(J Dawn King)

I’ve turned into a pretty decent cook. Anyone who has known how much my dear husband has suffered over the years can appreciate what an accomplishment that is!

Would you describe yourself as romantic or pragmatic?
(J Dawn King)

A bit of both, really. I believe that romance is shown in the everyday, small details over the course of time. To me, true romance only burns stronger with the passing of the years. So, perhaps I should say that I’m more romantic now (after 13 years of marriage) than I used to be.

If you could be on a deserted island with one of Jane Austen’s characters for one year, who would you choose?
(J Dawn King)

Captain Wentworth. A man with his experience at sea could surely build a floating vessel and get us home before the year is up.

If you could travel back in time to visit Jane Austen’s house for a two-month stay, what three items would you take with you?
(J Dawn King)

Indoor plumbing, electricity, and deodorant (enough for EVERYONE!).

How would you describe the perfect hero?
(J Dawn King)

My perfect hero shows his true colors through his actions, much in the style of Mr. Darcy.

Which is your favorite Jane Austen novel and why?
(Debbie Fortin)

It’s no secret that I love Pride & Prejudice! The conflicting personalities and secondary characters make it one of the few stories I’ve read more than once (actually WAY more than once! I’ve lost count…) Sense & Sensibility is a very close second though. I love the contrast between Elinor and Marianne.

What draws you to Pride and Prejudice?
(J Dawn King)

When I was younger, it was reading about the family dynamics and how sisters acted with each other. As an only child, that fascinated me. Now, I love watching how Darcy and Elizabeth grew as characters to overcome their flaws so that they could have their Happily-Ever-After. It’s a great story on so many levels.

Which do you prefer – the book or the movies?
(J Dawn King)

The book. Always the book.

Who is your favorite Jane Austen villain and why?
(Debbie Fortin)

Lucy Steele. What she did to Elinor Dashwood was artfully contrived to inflict the most turmoil while manipulating the situation to her favor. And after all that work, she ran off with the richer brother!

What made you start writing variations? I Loved pride and prejudice and read it a few times a year and when I found my first variation i was in heaven!! I am so grateful for all the variation authors! And i am now curious what made them write them?
(Miriam)

I saw that I could. That’s what started it. Now, I have to continue because the more I write, the more ideas for stories come to me. Also, like you, I read Pride & Prejudice multiple times a year. I love the world Jane Austen created and writing variations is my way of spending more time in it.

How much did your mother’s success push you to write or do you think you would have done this sooner or later even if she didn’t?
(Sheila L.M.)

I don’t know that I would have published if Mom hadn’t done it first. I have always written, but I had no clue that publishing was something that could be done. I’m grateful every day that she started us on this journey!

What made you decide to follow in your mom’s footsteps and write P&P stories?
(Dung)

It happened so naturally, I can’t remember actually making the decision! For a time, Mom lived in the apartment above us and we would talk shop quite a lot. Since she wrote P&P stories, I soon had more storylines than I knew what to do with. So, I started writing them down.

How much influence has your mother’s being an author had on you? and how much has her encouragement helped you to persevere?
(Debbie Fortin)

It’s wonderful to have someone so important to me who understands the writing process. Because Mom and I know each other so well, trading tips and talking about where we are in our writing, as well as our goals, is invaluable.

Do you have a special time of day and place to write?
(Debbie Fortin)

I try to get the bulk of my writing done in the morning— before the kids wake up for school. It’s not my most productive time, but it’s the most peaceful. If I don’t hit my daily word count goal, I’ll make it up while they’re at school. My favorite place to write is at my desk because it’s set up how I like. Earphones… check. Scattered notes and chapter beats… check. My favorite pen and a place for my coffee… check.

I admire all you authors, but have no ideas at all for a story so have not desire to write. How so you come up with ideas?
(Sheila L.M.)

You hit the nail on the head with your comment, Sheila. It all starts with the desire to write. I feel restless and out of sorts when I don’t write, so I make it a point to write every day. The more I write (and it can be about anything… from journaling about my kids’ recent antics to daydreaming a long list of What-ifs to working on my current story) the more ideas I get.

How did you come up with the inspiration for this story? I love the pig scene!
(Dung)

I wanted to include a mystery element, so that’s what got the story going. It needed to be something that would keep Darcy in Hunsford as well as something that could potentially keep him and Elizabeth apart. When I sketch out a novel, I keep in mind the main turning points or changes that will affect the characters and write with that goal in mind. The pig was a happy surprise that fit what the characters needed at that point in their story. It was so ridiculous— and we know how much Elizabeth loves to laugh at the ridiculous 😀

Do you have any favourite mystery series / fictional detectives which might have inspired the course of action (as opposed to the plot itself).
(My Yellow Kitchen)

I’m a big fan of Agatha Christie. Hercule Poirot, Miss Marple, Tommy and Tuppence… I love them all.

When you hit a block, what do you do to get yourself back on track: sing, read, clean, bake, etc?
(Debbie Fortin)

My husband is an amazing soundboard. The only blocks I experience are completely self-imposed. Sometimes I complicate things unnecessarily. I’ll tell him where I’m at in the story and where I’m trying to go with it and he can pinpoint the issue in a sentence. Or just talking about it out loud works the kinks out. He’s amazing!

Which of Miss Austen’s characters is most difficult for you to write, and why, and which is the easiest?
(Natalie R)

Would it shock you to know that it’s Elizabeth Bennet? It is! At the beginning of her story, she’s snarky and judgmental. While I love her sass, it’s difficult for me to write her because I’m more of a Jane (peace-loving and allergic to conflict). The easiest for me thus far has been Anne de Bourgh. So little is said about her that the possibilities are endless.

How difficult is it to keep the Spanish influence out of your Regency dialogue?
(J Dawn King)

Oh my goodness, it’s difficult! The only English I get most days are from my 7-year-old twins (who cross between Spanish and English in a single sentence) and my husband (who speaks English as a second language). It’s one of the things that encouraged me to write and keeps me reading the classics— I don’t want to lose my English!

As the Chief Inspector of the Grammar Police, what is your biggest pet peeve when you read a story with errors in it?
(J Dawn King)

I understand how difficult the editing/proofreading process is. No matter how much I try and no matter how many mistakes my proofers catch, there will always be a few that slip by. What I dislike is when there are so many mistakes that I end up focusing on them instead of the story. At that point, I’m no longer enjoying the story as a reader, but I’m critiquing as an editor. I’d rather just read!

Why are you so hard on your mother when you proofread her stories?
(J Dawn King)

For the same reason I would never allow you run around town with broccoli stuck in your teeth.

What has been your most valuable lesson learned since publishing your first book?
(J Dawn King)

Just keep writing. One book’s success does not mean every book will do equally great. Nor does one book’s failure mean that the next can’t be wonderful. So long as I write stories in a way which entertains me (By re-write #5, believe me, this is VERY important!) then I can’t lose.

You seem to be leaning towards cozy mysteries with your latest stories. Do you plan to continue the mystery theme?
(J Dawn King)

I may not have a robbery or a murder in every story, but I am fascinated with hooks and intrigues. Saving some answers for the climax of the story is fun!

Jennifer, I loved your Cousins trilogy so I was wondering if you would consider writing a sequel for it? I loved how you developed Anne and would love to know how you envisage her in married life with Luc? Thank you for the chance to win your newest book!
(Carole in Canada)

Anne is very special to me too, Carole. So special that while I would love to move on to other stories, I can’t bring myself to say that I’m done with her story completely. I have some ideas that are percolating…

Any upcoming projects you’re working on?
(Dung)

I’m almost finished with the first draft of my next novel. Right now it’s titled Book 6 because I can never think of a title until my husband insists that he needs it for the cover. All I can say for now is that Mr. Bingley’s aunt is a hoot and Caroline Bingley cannot hold her liquor.

If you could have a cup of coffee with anyone who has died in the past 250 years, who would it be?
(J Dawn King)

I know that I should say, ‘Jane Austen’ and I would LOVE to chat with her. She would either tell me off for using her characters as I have or she would get a kick out of them! But in reality, I would love to share a cup of coffee with my great grandpa King. I wasn’t old enough to drink coffee when he passed away and he lived such an interesting life, I’d love to talk to him again.

Thank you, Jennifer, for such fun answers and
agreeing to be our guest this month!

Now, as a late Valentines day gift,
Jennifer has four e-books of

Accusing Elizabeth

to give away!

Yes, you saw that correctly, we’ll have four winners, so comment so you can enter to win!

The giveaway is open internationally!

Rules for the giveaway –

If you asked a question, you already have 1 chance in the drawing.

If you comment on the final interview, you get 1 chance in the drawing.

If you left a question and comment, you get 2 chances in the drawing!

Please join in! Authors love answering your questions and hearing from you!

Last day for comments for the giveaway is
Wednesday 17 February.

February 2016 – Jennifer Joy

L. L. Diamond

15 comments

February 8, 2016

Happy Valentines Day to everyone this upcoming weekend!

I hope you’re ready because we have a new author with a new release as our Ask the Author victim this month.

Jennifer Joy!

Her latest book

Accusing Elizabeth

joins Jennifer’s long list of accomplishments!
Earning Darcy’s Trust, Darcy’s Ultimatum, Colonel Fitzwilliam’s Challenge, and Anne’s Adversity.

I’m so excited to welcome her to Ask the Author! I’m sure you are too, so let’s get those questions rolling in!

Oh! And not only is Jennifer going to answer your questions but she has four e-books of Accusing Elizabeth to giveaway! Yes, you saw that correctly, we’ll have four winners this month, so ask and comment so you can win!

The giveaway is open internationally!

Rules for the giveaway –

If you ask a question on this post, you get 1 chance in the drawing.

If you comment on the final interview, you get 1 chance in the drawing.

If you leave a question and a comment, you get 2 chances in the drawing!

Please join in and ask a question or leave a comment. Authors love answering your questions and hearing from you!

**Final date for questions is Thursday, 11 February, 2016**
(We’ve been getting more and more questions and the authors had little time to answer them, so I’m giving them an extra day.)

Interview posts Monday, 15 February
Last day for comments for the giveaway is Wednesday 17 February.

Winner of Longbourn’s Songbird!

L. L. Diamond

2 comments

January 29, 2016

We have a winner!

Congratulations

Debbie Fortin!

I know you’ll enjoy your copy of
Longbourn’s Songbird.

Thanks everyone for your questions and comments and don’t forget to get your questions ready for next month’s victim, Jennifer Joy, who has just released her new book, Accusing Elizabeth.

Call for questions posts 8 February!

The Beau North Interview is in!

L. L. Diamond

23 comments

January 25, 2016

Thanks for everyone’s amazing questions!

I know no one wants to read my intro, so let’s get to it, shall we?

Which is your favorite Jane Austen novel and why?
(Debbie Fortin)

I have a special place in my heart for Persuasion, actually. It was the first Austen novel I ever read, and while it isn’t as much fun as Pride & Prejudice or Emma, it feels like the most mature and thoughtful of her books. It’s the story of a woman, older and wiser, looking back on a time in her life and wondering if she could have done things differently. I think we can all relate to that!

Which Jane Austen character would your closest friends say you are most like?
(Joy Dawn King)

Mary Crawford, without a doubt.

Since you have published stories with both Darcy and Wentworth, which is your favorite Jane Austen hero? Or is it someone else?
(Joy Dawn King)

Wentworth and Darcy have got the brooding romantic hero down pretty well, but I think my heart might truly belong to Henry Tilney. The brooding would get old pretty quick, but a sense of humor is priceless.

To add to Joy’s question #7, which of Jane Austen’s heroines do you prefer….Anne or Elizabeth or another and why?
(Debbie Fortin)

I love Anne Elliot, I relate to her, but Elizabeth Bennet’s wit and intelligence put her a cut above the company. She’s the girl you want to hang out with!

If Mrs. Bennet arranged a blind date for you with Mr. Collins, what would you do?
(Joy Dawn King)

Order the most expensive thing on the menu.

Who is your favorite Jane Austen villain and why?
(Debbie Fortin)

Emma Woodhouse! I know Emma is technically a heroine BUT she exudes this cluelessness (see??) that only comes from excessive privilege. She means well, but that only seems to make things worse.

If you could rehabilitate a character in P&P in a re-telling, who would it be & why?
(Jenetta James)

That’s a tough one, because there’s a lot of potential there. I think it would be fun to have a good Wickham for a change, but it would almost have to be a parody similar to the Sherlock Holmes movie “Without A Clue,” where Holmes is sort of this bumbling goofball in the spotlight and Watson is quietly solving all the crimes. It would be incredibly funny to play up Darcy’s ineptness and have Wickham playing the straight man guiding him along. Hey maybe I’m on to something here…

Do you have a special place and time to write?
(Debbie Fortin)

I used to write better in the early mornings, but lately it’s whatever time I can grab. I have a hard time writing at home because there’s always things to be done and Netflix is just right there. So I try to make it a point to sit in a coffeeshop for at least an hour a day and get as much writing in as I can. I have a few here in Portland that I love, The Happy Sparrow and the Nectar Cafe, where I wrote maybe the last third of Longbourn’s Songbird.

When your characters are uncooperative what do you do to get through those rough patches….walk, garden, etc?
(Debbie Fortin)

I have a couple of things I do. First, I start doing housework. When my hands are busy my mind can wander, and sometimes the solution will just appear. Walking is always good. There are some fabulous parks here and it’s good just to clear out the cobwebs. Also, when you go out in public like that there is the added benefit of watching people interact. Real life feeds fiction. A stranger on the bus might speak or gesture in such a way that will have me racing home to add that little detail to a character. All you need to start a fire is a couple of sparks.

I’ve read so many great reviews for your novel. What inspired you to write a modern day version of P&P?
(Dung)

Thanks Dung! I think it was reading so many other great fanfics that made me want to give it a whirl. I don’t think I ever considered writing Regency, because at the time I knew absolutely nothing about the time period. Plus, the best part about fanfic is the What If? I’ve read some incredible modern takes on Austen, so I thought I’d throw my hat into the ring as well.

In Longbourn’s Songbird, what drew you to place your story in Post WWII America?

Before I started writing, my dad sent me a bunch of old family photos he’d scanned, quite a few of my grandmother and her brothers. It got me thinking about what it must have been like to live in that time and place, and how would someone like Elizabeth Bennet have fared? There were some thematic parallels between that time in our country and Jane Austen’s time–the war, the rules of society, etc. People tend to overlook the fact that, like Jane Austen’s time, there was also a lot of social injustice happening.

If Longbourn’s Songbird was a movie, who would you want to play your main characters?
(Joy Dawn King)

Well I did get into this some on my blog tour. Elizabeth would be a difficult casting for me because she was largely inspired by young Hedy Lamarr, but I’ve since seen Star Wars: The Force Awakens and I have to say that Daisy Ridley would be amazing. She comes across as very earnest and sincere, and I think I loved her instantly. Jennifer Lawrence would be lovely as Jane, I think, and she’s already a southern girl so she’s got that going for her. Darcy…well, I wrote Darcy as Sam Reid (just pretend his hair is dark) but since I’ve seen In Secret I have to say Oscar Isaac would make a phenomenal Darcy. He’s got so much charisma and those eyes! Okay, so he isn’t tall, but he’s incredibly dreamy.

Richard has only ever been Tom Mison to me. I got the chance to meet him at a convention back in September and told him how he inspired one of my main characters and he was very sweet about it. Can you believe he’s even more gorgeous in person that he is on television? For Bingley I would say Taron Egerton, because he could be very funny in one second and very intense the next. The divine Tatiana Maslany would be Anne and Felicity Jones would make a great Charlotte. Not that I’ve given this very much thought!

Are you a bird lover?
(Joy Dawn King)

Oh boy, I’ve been dreading this question. Actually, I am fine with smaller birds in the wild. I have a lot of bizarre allergies and one of them is feathers, or birds, I’ve never figured out which, but I can’t be in a house where birds are kept as pets. Aside from the smaller ones, I have a deep mistrust and fear around birds of prey. Any kind of raptor gives me the creeps!

Why did you move the action to South Carolina? I’ve definitely got to read this … from my cozy house in South Carolina! And with all the good reviews, I’m looking forward to reading it!
(JanisB)

Thanks Janis, I hope you enjoy it! I grew up in a very small town in South Carolina, so it was very easy for me to picture it as Meryton. I don’t think my hometown has changed much since 1948! South Carolina is such a strange place to be from if you live anywhere else in the world. I love it, but I fear it. It’s beautiful and wild but also ugly and in many places stuck in the past. I have so many conflicting feelings about it. I wanted to capture it’s warmth and hospitality without excusing it’s faults. I hope I did that!

I know you miss boiled peanuts and other specific things from the South, and a pilgrimage back there helped you with “Longbourn’s Songbird.” That’s great, because the voice in the novel is very clear. Do you think you could do something similar for other places you’ve lived: capture the essence of the people and the geography?
(Suzan Lauder)

Thanks Suzan! I suppose I DO run on about my love of boiled peanuts and other southern treats (Sweet Tea is the nectar of the Gods). I hope I’m able to capture the essence of other places I write about. In ‘Holiday Mix Tape’ I chose to set the story in Portland, because it can be a very moody atmosphere here, and I hope I managed to get some of that across despite being such a recent transplant. I’ve been working on a handful of other projects, two set in Minnesota where I lived for about ten years, so I think that’s still fresh enough in my mind to get that setting right, and of course The Colonel is set primarily in New York City. I’ve been planning to visit the city again and just get a feel for the sights, the sounds, the daily rhythm of life.

You’ve said writing sex scenes is difficult for you. Do you see this as something you need to push yourself to do? What you infer is often sufficient, even lovely! (Or not, if Caroline Bingley is in the room…) But I wonder how YOU feel about this, and if you see it as a failing (you shouldn’t).
(Linda Beutler)

Well, thanks for that, Linda! I don’t think “failing” is exactly right, I just always feel like it’s such a struggle to get it right without it being cliché. Also, there are words in the English language used to describe anatomy that I don’t think I could ever, ever use because I find them too funny. One of these days I’m just going to sit down and use them all to write the funniest sex scene ever, after a glass of wine or three. I have been working on building my confidence and I’m happy to say I think I’ve made some progress. I’ve written some scenes that I would even call downright smutty!

Do you sing to the radio when you are in the car?
(Joy Dawn King)

My husband has a fantastic voice and is really the car-singer between the two of us, but if it’s a song I really love I will belt it out. My voice? Not so fantastic. However, I love hip hop and can’t resist the urge to rap along with the radio. And yes, it is just as funny as you’re imagining it to be.

In the #Austenwatch events, you demonstrate one heck of a good wit. Have you considered writing a comedy? Perhaps a parody?
(Suzan Lauder)

Oh, comedy is hard. I have to take my hat off to any and all of the JAFF authors whose books have made me laugh (Linda Beutler, Jessica Evans, KC Kahler, Pamela Aiden, Laura Sanchez) I would really love to write something comedic but it’s always difficult knowing what will land and what will sink like a lead balloon. I’ve considered collaborating with my brother, who does stand-up comedy from time to time and is one of the funniest people I know. I’m much better at being funny in the moment than I am writing comedy.

I first saw “Rhymes with Nerdy” when you celebrated little known women in science. What inspired the research? Do you have a background in science? How did you find these obscure people?
(Suzan Lauder)

As much as I’d love to take credit for that article, it was written by a smart young writer named Spencer Seams (follow him on twitter @Matt_seams). We have a “stable” of talented writers over at Rhymes With Nerdy, and I give them a free hand to write about anything they want. I think the only thing I ever banned was a review of Ender’s Game because I didn’t want to do any favors for Orson Scott Card. There’s even a wonderful article there on the History of Fan Fiction, written by my friend Jo West.

Do you have any Regency stories up your sleeves just begging to be written?
(Joy Dawn King)

Not exactly. I do have something in the works that would best be called “Alternate Universe Regency.” I find that in order to write a story I have to relate to it in some way, or there has to be a fair amount of worldbuilding going on. While I love reading Regency romances, I don’t think I have the talent for writing them. But, bend the rules a little, throw in some magic and danger? That’s something I can do! I love Fantasy and Science Fiction, Horror and Mystery as well as Romance.

Longbourn’s Songbird was excellent. Are you planning to write another Pride and Prejudice variation?
(Carol Perrin)

Thank you, Carol! I always said One P&P variation and that’s it! But I’ve been working on a short that may turn into something longer.

A little bird (pls excuse the pun 😀 ) told me there’s more where that came from, and I’m eager to find out as much as possible about it. So Beau, is there anything you could share without giving the game away?
(Joana Starnes)

This is actually a funny story. I’d always planned for this book to be about Colonel Fitzwilliam, P&P told from his point of view, but it turned into a somewhat straightforward P&P retelling. My writing partner, Brooke West, told me that I had to write Longbourn’s Songbird for one reason — it’s meant to be a prequel to The Colonel. I did drop a few hints at the end of Longbourn’s Songbird that Richard’s tale doesn’t end there, and that has been a project I’ve been working on for a while now. I can’t say with any certainty how soon it will be finished, sadly, but I can give you a few morsels: Part of the book will focus on Richard’s grown son and one of his Darcy cousins, there are some chapters that are so sad even I don’t want to re-read them, and a few of the lingering questions from Songbird will get answered. Questions like, what was Richard doing in the years between 1945 and 1949?

Okay, so you’ve written another delightful P&P variation, and I’ve thanked you for the pleasure I received in reading it when it was released, now my big question is “What are you doing for me next!” Seriously, thanks for our pleasurable past, but what about our future? I–and lots of others–want another goodie soon, please.
(Betty Campbell Madden)

Thank you Betty! That means a lot. I’m hoping to make some more headway with The Colonel, and I mentioned there is a short I’m currently working on that I hope to start posting over at A Happy Assembly in another few months, it’s tentatively called Modern Love. I’ve also got 98% of an urban fantasy novel written, and a modern gothic romance, Blackthorn. The problem is that I’ve always written in fits & starts, jumping between projects, and sometimes it’s agonizingly slow. It took me six years to get Longbourn’s Songbird to a point where I felt comfortable submitting it.

If you had a chance to ask Jane Austen one question, what would it be?
(Joy Dawn King) BTW, great bangs. #JEALOUS

Thank you! I’ve actually thought about this before and I think the only question I would have for Jane would be “What are we having, the red or the white?”

A huge thank you to

Beau North

for answering all of our questions about herself and her new book

Don’t forget about her short story included in the latest Meryton Press anthology,

Then Comes Winter

Now, Don’t Forget!

Beau North has a signed paperback of Longbourn’s Songbird to giveaway!

And the giveaway is open internationally!

Rules for the giveaway –

If you ask a question on this post, you get 1 chance in the drawing.

If you comment on the final interview, you get 1 chance in the drawing.

If you leave a question and a comment, you get 2 chances in the drawing!

Don’t forget to leave that comment.
You don’t want to miss out!

**Final date for comments is Wednesday, 27 January, 2016**

January 2016 – Beau North

L. L. Diamond

13 comments

January 18, 2016

I can’t believe it’s 2016!!!

Happy New Year to everyone and welcome back to Ask the Author!

This month I am really excited to welcome

Beau North

as our victim for January!

Beau is an exciting new face in JAFF, but has already earned rave reviews for her first novel

Longbourn’s Songbird

She also has a short story included in the latest Meryton Press anthology,

Then Comes Winter

So, don’t be shy! Step up and ask Beau a question!

She’s also been so kind as to offer a signed paperback of Longbourn’s Songbird
for a giveaway!

And the giveaway is open internationally!

So, get your questions in!

Rules for the giveaway –

If you ask a question on this post, you get 1 chance in the drawing.

If you comment on the final interview, you get 1 chance in the drawing.

If you leave a question and a comment, you get 2 chances in the drawing!

Please join in and ask a question or leave a comment. Authors love answering your questions and hearing from you!

**Final date for questions is Thursday, 21 January, 2016**
(We’ve been getting more and more questions and the authors had little time to answer them, so I’m giving them an extra day.)

Interview posts Monday, 25 January
Last day for comments for the giveaway is Wednesday 27 January

Please leave those questions below!

January update!

L. L. Diamond

6 comments

January 5, 2016

Well, we’re almost a week into January, but this is the first day I have to myself since the children were let out of school for Christmas break. What have I written over that break? Nada! I wish I could say I have, but it was impossible. Too many obligations, not to mention the sweet face of my son asking me to sit with him while he watched movies or to play a card game. I couldn’t resist!

Today, my children are back in school, and I’m trying to get back to my usual routine. My spin class was cancelled, so as of this moment, my normal routine is off. I hold out great hope for the next few days. Perhaps by Friday? *snort*

We’re attempting to get out and about, but if you’ve noticed the flooding in England, the weather has not been great. Most days it’s raining, which is usually light or misting but accumulates as much as a heavier storm it seems and the wind this winter has been atrocious. Pretty days are few and far between and we have tried to take advantage, but nothing has been successful; however, I’m still crossing my fingers for an Expat post soon!

In the meantime, I believe I’m 15 chapters into the latest story. No name yet and no beta opinions. I’m not sure, but it’s a bit different from anything I’ve written so far–I think. I’m sure someone will disagree when it finally sees the light of day. I’m biting my fingernails at the thought of someone else finally reading it. Eeek! I’m a big ninny in case people didn’t know!

Also, if you haven’t been over to Austen Variations, please stop in this month. We’re celebrating Jane Bennet in January with a bunch of scenes and stories featuring sweet, beautiful Jane, of course. It should be great fun! I have a post later this month. I need to decide what I want to write, too! Decisions!

Lastly, don’t forget Ask the Author this month! We’re having it a bit later to accommodate schedules, so make sure you come by on 18 January to welcome our newest victim, Beau North!

: Longbourn’s Songbird

: Beau North

: Then Comes Winter

I’m hoping I’ll have more as the month goes along, but we’ll see. Maybe the weather will miraculously clear and we’ll get out somewhere awesome.

Winner of the J.Dawn King Ask the Author Giveaway!

L. L. Diamond

3 comments

December 18, 2015

A huge thank you to everyone
who contributed questions and comments
for Ask the Author this month!

I’d like to give a special thanks to those repeat offenders out there who have been contributing questions or comments on every interview. Y’all are awesome!

So winner of the amazing bracelet Joy offered as a giveaway is…

ladysusanpdx!

Congratulations!

Also a huge thank you to Joy

for stopping by and answering your questions!!!

The J. Dawn King Interview is in!

L. L. Diamond

53 comments

December 14, 2015

I hope y’all are ready!

Joy has answered all of the questions
and we have them ready to go!

Don’t forget to comment at the end of the interview for a chance to win the wonderful charm bracelet
Joy is giving away!

Who is your favorite sister??? Kelli or Rita???
(Kelli Weekly)

Ha! I bet you thought you would stump me. My hands-down favorite sister in the whole wide world is Jonah’s. For those who do not know me personally, Jonah is my grandson. He has a twin sister who is my only granddaughter. She would be my favorite. #grandkidsrule #grandkidsarenumber1

Joy…I noticed that in the fine details of your stories, you use personal information from your real life Example: Using JJ’s birth date for Georgiana. Can you give a couple of other examples where you did this?
(Rita Malone Paul)

Good eye, Rita. I’ve actually used Jennifer’s birth date a few times. I’ve “borrowed” names from people I love or don’t love and have used them accordingly. Mainly, I have been pretty cavalier about adapting characters to fit personalities of people I know. (And, people you know as well.)

How do you stay so positive and upbeat all the time? Does your writing help with that or is it part of your character to not let life get you down?
(Janet T)

Thank you, Janet. Those are words I will cherish. For this you may blame my parents. By naming me “Joy”, it obligates me to a certain attitude. And, I LOVE living. To me, every breath is precious and every minute should be filled with something we love to do. If my day is particularly challenging, I write happily ever after.

My instinct is to walk away from negativity and in-fighting. It’s why I rarely get in the middle of an issue unless it affects someone I love. Then, the claws come out and I’m single-mindedly fierce.

How long did you live in South America? Did your experience influence your writing?(tgruy)

John and I lived in Ecuador twice for a total of four years.

Absolutely/positively, Tere, our living there influenced me. I am forever filling my days to overflowing. In Ecuador, the pace of the whole culture is slower and more relaxed. Eventually, my health and the high altitude forced me to slow down. It was then that I started thinking I might actually have the time to put a story to paper.

It also helped me to realize that Regency England was a culture. I found it much easier to place myself there alongside my characters with the experience of getting outside my comfort zone.

Which is your favorite Jane Austen novel? …. And why is it your favorite?
(Debbie Fortin)

Pride and Prejudice is my favorite. Why? I think it’s the family dynamics of the Bennets and the Bingleys. There is no doubt that my siblings played a huge role in how I grew up. Getting to read about the same in P&P is like watching reality TV.

Which are your top three favourite Austen novels?
(Joana Starnes)

Pride and Prejudice
Persuasion (John was at sea for 21 years as a sea captain. I still cherish the letters he wrote. So, Captain Wentworth’s letter? It’s easy for me to think he spent years imagining what he would say to Anne Elliott if he ever had the chance. The days on the ocean, when not in port, are lonely and quiet. Lots of time for a healthy imagination to work.)
Emma – I will just say she reminds me of someone I know well.

The best variations, in my opinion, are most credible when the values of the original are not ignored but, instead, are built on as circumstances change from the original source. That said, how many times have you read Jane’s P&P and how recently?
(Betty Campbell Madden)

Good question, Betty. I’ve read it twice in the last three years. How many JAFF have I read during that same time? Literally hundreds.

Which of the Pride and Prejudice films is your favorite, and why? (insert evil laugh here)(Robin Helm)

You are a stinker of the first order, Robin. However, the answer may surprise you.

When Jennifer was still at home we watched the 1940 version with Greer Garson. That was way before I ever read the book. Jennifer was an only child so observing her watch the Bennet sisters was a hoot. She had grown up thinking that having a sister would be the same as having a best friend. Then she found out some sisters are “Lydia” and she changed her mind. Those memories make it my favorite.

What is your favorite non Jane Austen movie?
(carterkristina2)

I LOVE sweet chick-flicks like You’ve Got Mail, Sleepless in Seattle, and Clueless. The Anne of Green Gables series is a special favorite and old musicals are a standby. My guilty pleasure? Sam Elliott westerns.

Which is your favourite Mr Knightley in the adaptations?
(Joana Starnes)

Both Jeremy Northam and Jonny Lee Miller are excellent actors. However, since I’m almost the same height as Jonny Lee Miller, I’d have to go with Jeremy Northam (he’s 4” taller). Besides, his clothes in Emma are the height of elegance, just as I imagine Mr. Knightley would wear.

Who is your second favourite Austen heroine and why?
(Joana Starnes)

This one is hard, Joana. You might assume that Elizabeth Bennet is my favorite. She’s not. From the first time I read P&P she frustrated me to no end. Yes, I would have reacted as she did at the Meryton Assembly. Yes, I would have wanted to make witty comebacks to Darcy and Caroline. Yes, I would have refused Mr. Collins as she did. But, she was smug. She arrogantly thought she knew everything she needed to know to pass judgements on people. Of course, by the end of the book she was a much smarter and mature young lady. She’s my third favorite.

My first is Anne Elliot. I love her loyalty.

My second is Elinor Dashwood. She loves her sisters more than herself.

Which Austen villain do you dislike the most and why?
(Joana Starnes)

Fanny Dashwood. Such a cold-hearted snake.

When did you begin writing books?
(Mary Michael)

I wrote a horrible book when Jennifer was little (about 30 years ago). It ended up in the trash bin. My first published book was written in 1985. It was a cookbook for the cancer clinic in Mexico where I was treated. In just over a month, it will be two years since I started “A Father’s Sins”. I published it March 2014.

What was your initial inspiration to begin writing JAFF?
(Jen Red)

When I read “The Journey” by Jan Hahn (see the next question), I longed for more. I would dream about that story and spend hours’ day-dreaming that particular Darcy and Elizabeth in a variety of altered situations. I found more and more JAFF, but never lost my storyline that came from those daydreams. After about a year, I just HAD to write it down.

You mentioned once that ‘The Journey’ by Jan Hahn was part of your inspiration for starting your writing career. What about that book was so special to you?
(Janet T)

I had just finished reading Pride and Prejudice for the first time when I found Jan’s book. At the start, Darcy and Lizzy are in a carriage with the Bingley sisters. Darcy actually had a conversation with Elizabeth and I thought, “well, it’s about time.” His tender care of her during the robbery and kidnapping were exquisite. THAT was the Darcy I fell in love with.

Then came chapter 8. Wow! I’ve never forgotten it and reread it on occasion. By the end, I closed the cover, closed my eyes, and sighed a happy sigh.

I remember reading that you had found your type of writing and it was fluff! Why do you call it fluff?
(Janet T)

I love being in love. Love it! Love it! Love it! I love a hero who slays dragons with his brave heroine by his side (with a sword of her own, of course). I admire capable women immensely. Therefore, my stories tend to have Darcy and Lizzy stand together as one against their enemies. It gives me pleasure to watch a relationship bud and grow into something tested and strong. So, I write them falling in love easily. That’s my fluffy marshmallow crème method of storytelling.

The only question I can think of, and it would be for all authors, is where ever do you come up with the ideas for variations? As much as I read, I can’t say that I have ever had a new idea for a story popped into my head.
(Sheila L.M.)

Sheila, after I read a story I ponder over one small change. Then I mentally follow that to what I believe the conclusion would be. Thus, a new variation of an old story.

What inspires you to write JAFF (P&P) novels and how do you come up with the plots?
(Dung)

As I mentioned above, Dung, it involves a lot of thinking and a healthy dose of imagination. Many nights I lay awake moving my characters around like furniture in a room. I get to know my characters better as I imagine them reacting to unexpected influences.

If I am entertained by the path they take, I make a note of it for later. There’s my story.

My question is how do you get your ideas on paper? I want to be able to write but I just can’t get the ideas and conversations in my head to make sense on the written page. I envy you this ability.
(schilds)

I used an outline with my first book. I wrote 2-3 sentences describing what I wanted to take place for each chapter. Then I went back and filled in some details to move the story from one chapter to the next. Then, keeping in mind the need to show rather than tell, I thought of conversations that would move the story along and reveal qualities and motives of the characters as they spoke. It’s not as hard as you might think.

Another tool is to use the forums to post a chapter at a time. The feedback you get between each chapter is invaluable. The reviewers want you to improve and succeed.

After Jane Austen, what deceased author and what living author have been the greatest influence on your writing?
(ladysusanpdx)

Ohhhh, good question. I think it’s a tie between Charles Dickens and Lucy Maud Montgomery. For current? Hmmmmm! Let me think. It would have to be Jan Hahn for JAFF and Richard Peck (his kid’s books are so awesome – Way Down Yonder and A Long Way from Chicago are my favorites).

I have really enjoyed all of Joy’s stories and particularly love Married in “One Love, Two Hearts, Three Stories”. I’d like to know what was your inspiration for this story. I thought Georgiana’s character was excellent and very believable for a fifteen year old.
(Lynn Bischoff)

Lynn, it was actually Georgiana that started Married! for me. What are the facts as we know them from Pride and Prejudice? She was a teenager who showed a propensity for poor judgement by falling for Wickham. She was wealthy, privileged, and without a parent’s authority. It was an easy leap to make her teenage years more challenging to her dear brother. I couldn’t see Darcy dealing well with it on his own so put him and Elizabeth together quickly. Married! Is my particular favorite as well.

Would you ever consider writing a non P&P variation such as one based upon Persuasion?(Debbie Fortin)

Yes. I have a story outlined that is Persuasion based. In it, Anne Elliot has developed a subtle rebellion that none of her family are aware of. Captain Wentworth doesn’t realize the woman he admires is actually Anne. When he finds out, he loves her more than before and his letter at Bath is 100% justified. Maybe one day I’ll finish it.

Do you try and keep a set schedule for writing, or do you write whenever the inspiration hits you?
(Pam Hunter)

I try to write every day. However, I have the bad habit of editing as I go. That slows me down considerably. And, I’m easily distracted.

How do you stay motivated?
(Jennifer Joy)

Funny you should ask this, Jennifer. I have a lovely daughter that badgers me unmercifully.

I love your stories, Joy. I do have a question or two for you. When writing, I am sure, you sometimes have moments when your characters just aren’t cooperative. What do you do to get through those rough patches….walk, bake, watch a movie, etc?
(Debbie Fortin)

Excellent question. I take them to bed with me. They invade my dreams and thoughts until I realize where I went wrong in my writing. Right now, Bingley continues to give me fits. You would think that such an amiable man would be easy to write. He’s NOT!!! HE DRIVES ME CRAZY!!! I won’t have relief until I tell his story exactly as he wants me to. Period!!!

If you could meet Jane Austen what would you talk about/ask her?
(Debbie Fortin)

I would like to hear her describe each family member one by one. In her writing, she provides very few personal details about her characters, so I would try to listen to see if that was her inclination with the real people in her life as well.

I love how in your variations the villains don’t get to do much damage, and if Darcy and Elizabeth have challenges to face, they often communicate and face them together. Will it be the same in your next novel?
(Joana Starnes)

No. My next Darcy and Lizzy is called “The Abominable Mr. Darcy”. When she overhears Darcy at the Meryton Assembly, she says he goes from an enigma to an enemy. (Very much a departure for me. I keep wanting to make everyone play nice and get along. It’s not happening in this story.)

Georgiana was a very entertaining surprise in ‘Married’ – very different to canon, but deliciously naughty and it was easy to believe why she would act as she did. Do you have another surprise like this in store for us?
(Joana Starnes)

I believe the path Jane Bennet takes will be shocking in my Bingley/Jane story. She is much more “real”. Still kind and good, of course, but as imperfect as everyone else.

Is your next book going to be a novel or a collection of short stories, and how long till the next treat?
(Joana Starnes)

I wish I could make Bingley/Jane a short story so I can be done with them. Grrrrr! But, no. All are full-length.

Would like to know about a publication date on the next book but I hate to seem like i am putting any pressure on you/her. Things all happened in good time, is a philosophy I seem to adhere to.
(Sheila L.M.)

I adore you, I’m working on it, Sheila. Truly I am.

Now, how long do I have to wait to add more Joy King creations to my inventory? I’m certainly ready for another good fix! And I’d be so happy, even jubilant, moving my mouse, turning the page, with that coveted bracelet decorating my wrist.:)
(Betty Campbell Madden)

Thank you kindly. As mentioned above, I’m typing.

Joy, I have all of your books and have read them several times. Are you still planning on finishing the sequel to A Father’s Sins?
(Tammy Bould)

I am. It is book 2, Bingley, which I am working on now.

What other projects are you working on?
(Dung)

I have two books and one screenplay in progress right now. If I’d quit bouncing back and forth I would probably get one finished sooner. I’m working on it.

My question is when you plan to get your next book out so your sister by choice will stop going crazy while waiting? ??
(Melanie Schertz)

I would be more than happy to publish my next book, Melanie dear, but I started your latest yesterday and can’t put it down. So, as soon as I finish yours I can start working on mine again. (Please don’t tell Jennifer that I read your book. She’s on me like a tick on a hound to keep my nose to the grindstone. That girl!!!)

How many more ideas do you have for stories? I need more things to read.
(Rhiannen Franklin)

The truth is that my brain keeps spinning with ideas. I don’t think it will ever end. Thanks Rhiannen!

Since I have and thoroughly enjoyed all your books and audios I was wondering. Are you branching out writing something else, like kids books?
(Marie Jones)

Eventually, yes, I would love to publish my children’s stories. I get such enjoyment sharing them vocally with my nieces, nephews, and grandchildren that I’ve not taken the time to write them down. I’ve not forgotten them.

Joy do you have any suggestions for an aspiring writer?
(Fawn George)

Yes. You will never have a finished book if you don’t start. I think there’s a shoe company whose advertising slogan is “just do it.” Think of a story you would love to read and write it. The rewards are astounding.

What words of wisdom can you share with someone who is thinking of pursuing writing and publishing as a career or hobby?
(Jennifer Joy)

Jennifer, I don’t know how wise I am, but thinking about writing is like sitting in a rocking chair – you don’t go anywhere no matter how hard you think/rock. Writing a book is like eating an elephant – one bite at a time/one word at a time. I love those metaphors because they help me not be overwhelmed with the process.

If I type a few words, I have a sentence. If I type a few sentences, I have a paragraph. A few paragraphs, I have a chapter. Before I know it, I have a story in front of me that’s begging for “the End”.

My sincerest thanks, Leslie, for your invitation to be part of your blog. I look forward to 2016 with great anticipation.