One of the most fun things about writing fiction is being able to include some real-life tidbits. And that was definitely the case as I wrote The Captain’s Kidnapped Bride. In this rather unusual Victorian historical romance, the heroine gets swept away to Jamaica. There, she finds healing for herself and others with a variety … read more
When Mail-Order Brides Were a Thing
Hard to believe that only a century ago, mail-order brides were a “thing.” Yes, really; you could answer an advertisement; strike up a correspondence; and if the stars seemed aligned, choose a wife or husband – all by mail. It was a seemingly practical solution for singles stuck in remote locations – the Victorian version … read more
Magazine Lore from 1889
I love, love, love old magazines, and thanks to a sharp-eyed friend, an 1889 copy of Lippincott’s magazine came home with me. I couldn’t wait to share some of the “finds” inside with you! Life was different back in 1889, of course – yet also so much the same. Outdoor recreation was big, for one … read more
The Courting Buggy Tradition
There’s a short, humorous scene in my soon-to-be-released Time Travel novella that mentions a “courting buggy.” Check it out: Pleased wasn’t the word for how Hiram’s visits struck me. Annoyed was more like it. Hiram had gotten in the habit of “stopping by for a chat” two or three times a week. Sometimes on … read more
A Time Travel Novella: Coming Soon
Ever wanted to travel back in time to the 1880s? If you love history, you’ve probably indulged in the notion. What would it really be like to live back then? Which is what got me thinking about writing a time travel novel, set in Carson Valley in 1885. Here’s a short excerpt from my novella-in-progress, … read more
Sneak Preview: “Captain’s Kidnapped Bride” historical romance
Love sweet historical romance with a dash of magic? Here’s a free sneak preview — as our heroine avoids a forced marriage, but finds herself on a strange ship with a whole new set of problems! (Including a handsome, grouchy captain who didn’t plan on an extra passenger — especially as his cabin-mate!) Read on! … read more