Today it’s my great pleasure to welcome author Charlotte Betts to the Word Wench blog. Charlotte is a multi-award-winning author of historical novels who describes herself as a daydreamer and a bookworm (so she’s in good company here) who lives in Hampshire in a C17th cottage in the woods. I first met Charlotte years ago as a fellow member of the Historical Novel Society and the Romantic Novelists’ Association. I love that she has written in different time periods and very different settings, from the Great Fire of London, to Revolutionary France to the Regency. Her books are full of adventure, mystery and romance, with rich backgrounds that make the past come alive. Today Charlotte is talking about her research and her latest novel, The House in Quill Court. Welcome, Charlotte!
Recently I clicked ‘send’ and gave an exhausted cheer as my manuscript for The Dressmaker’s Secret flew off to my editor. As any author knows, that cheer isn’t a signal to take an extended break. The deadline for finishing the first draft of a novel always seems to coincide with the launch of the previous one, while the publishers are simultaneously asking for an outline for the next one. Non-writer friends sometimes ask how I manage to keep all the details of each story in my head at once but really it’s no different from watching several drama series on the television on consecutive nights; you simply jump from one world into another.
This immersion in another world is what I have always prized most about reading. To be able to forget that it’s a cold, rainy day 
and leap into a novel set in the warmth of the Mediterranean sunshine, all for the price of a book, is a wondrous thing. Writing takes this escapism one stage further than reading since the author can direct their characters to be anywhere in the world they wish and make them act in any way they choose to further the story. It’s the perfect career for megalomaniacs!
Another aspect of the variety and control of the writing process is research. As an author of historical novels, it’s an exciting journey discovering new facts. Researching a novel is a self-guided education and it’s thrilling to have the freedom to choose areas of research that fascinate. For me, history lessons at school were like eating bowls of gruel every day, whilst now I pick all my favourite centres out of a box of Belgian chocolates.
The House in Quill Court, set in 1814, was published this year. My research for this novel led me to explore the sharp contrasts in a society where the middle and upper classes enjoyed balls and tea parties in elegant townhouses set around garden squares, while the poor lived in squalor in the noisome alleyways only a step away. Two completely different sets of society co-existed side by side. To emphasise this contrast, I wrote the story from the point of view of gently-brought up Venetia, an interior decorator to the rich with a shop in Cheapside and also from that of her maid, Kitty. Their story tells how the two girls worked together from different ends of the social spectrum to overturn a violent protection racket.
Since I had my own interior design business for many years, I already had a thorough knowledge of the skills Venetia needed. Writers are often advised to ‘write what you know’ and I was happy to take that advice but I still enjoyed discovering more about furniture, paint finishes, fabrics and wall hangings specific to the Regency era.
When it came to Kitty’s story, it was a completely different matter. Kitty leaves her employment, falls on hard times and finds herself at the mercy of the criminal underworld. It made me burn with anger to understand how few choices poor girls like Kitty had. Crime reached epidemic proportions in the Regency era and during the course of my research I was astonished to discover that there was no centralised police force at that time.
Provision of law enforcement was patchy and often corrupt and organised crime spiralled out of control. I read transcripts of trials 
at the Old Bailey and researched how Henry Fielding had established a centre for law-enforcement in Bow Street. Experienced thief-takers who were fast on their feet became known as Bow Street runners. This often ineffective force was reformed by Sir Robert Peel by his Metropolitan Police Act of 1829. In 1814, however, when The House in Quill Court is set, the power and arrogance of the underworld gang leaders was virtually unchallenged.
The Dressmaker’s Secret, though still in the Regency period, took me along a different path. The extraordinary and tragic life of Caroline of Brunswick, the estranged wife of the Prince Regent, was the inspiration for this story and I found myself in Italy this June, following her footsteps in Pesaro. I walked on the Monte San Bartolo looking for the Villa Caprile and the Villa Vittoria where she lived, ambled around what was left of the town walls, dipped my fingers in the fountain in the Piazza del Poppolo and swam in the Baia Flaminia where she liked to bathe. All the while I had the feeling that Caroline was looking over my shoulder and smiling at the places where she had been happy.
Whilst Caroline wasn’t the main character in the novel, the factual events of her life framed the plot for my heroine, Emilia, who left Italy and returned to England to find her family and unravel the mystery of valuable stolen paintings. This caused me to brush up on my knowledge of the history of art, to find out more about eating an ice cream from Gunters and George IV’s magnificent coronation.
Now I’m nurturing the seed of an idea for my next novel, opening at the end of the eighteenth century and which will be set in a more exotic location. I’ve already spent a few productive days staying in the amazing Gladstone Library near Chester, researching the end of the Moghul empire and I’ve been looking up the history of sea voyages around the Cape. I’m fizzing with enthusiasm as I scribble random ideas in my notebook and stare into space while I daydream about plots and characters.
Where to next? I’m not sure yet but I know that, no matter which research road I travel along, I’ll be sure to discover something to 
amaze and surprise both myself and my readers.
Website: www.charlottebetts.com
Twitter: @CharlotteBetts1
Facebook: Charlotte Betts – Author
The House in Quill Court – Amazon UK
The House in Quill Court – Amazon US
Thank you very much, Charlotte, for such an interesting insight into your research. I’m very much looking forward to reading The Dressmaker’s Secret! Please feel free to ask Charlotte any questions about her books or her research, or tell us your ideas on design: Do you like the classical elegance of Regency or something more Gothic and Victorian? A French chateau or and old cottage? And for your own homes do you prefer stripped –down Scandinavian pine, or shabby chic? Bohemian, blue and white beach house or something individual to you? We’re offering a copy of The House in Quill Court to one lucky commenter between now and midnight Friday.
The Gladstone Library sound wonderful. I assume books–histories, biographies, and travel memoirs–are your primary source of research. But do you try to travel to places to get the way the sunshine is golden in the fall and struggling but hopeful in the spring? Or do you use art? (I remember vaguely my art history section on Moghul art.)
In the last couple of months, I have done a selection of castles, manor houses, and palaces. I have come to appreciate that over the top isn’t me. There’s such a thing as too much gilt, and decoration can be oppressive. The other thing that I’ve discovered is how much gardens and grounds are a part of the English homes and castles.
I guess my main decorating thing is my collection of art prints from Matisse, Monet, and Van Gogh. These paintings provide both color and light. With so many colors, I can pick a bedspread or a sofa cover that lets me freshen the room with little effort or cost.
The Gladstone Library sound wonderful. I assume books–histories, biographies, and travel memoirs–are your primary source of research. But do you try to travel to places to get the way the sunshine is golden in the fall and struggling but hopeful in the spring? Or do you use art? (I remember vaguely my art history section on Moghul art.)
In the last couple of months, I have done a selection of castles, manor houses, and palaces. I have come to appreciate that over the top isn’t me. There’s such a thing as too much gilt, and decoration can be oppressive. The other thing that I’ve discovered is how much gardens and grounds are a part of the English homes and castles.
I guess my main decorating thing is my collection of art prints from Matisse, Monet, and Van Gogh. These paintings provide both color and light. With so many colors, I can pick a bedspread or a sofa cover that lets me freshen the room with little effort or cost.
The Gladstone Library sound wonderful. I assume books–histories, biographies, and travel memoirs–are your primary source of research. But do you try to travel to places to get the way the sunshine is golden in the fall and struggling but hopeful in the spring? Or do you use art? (I remember vaguely my art history section on Moghul art.)
In the last couple of months, I have done a selection of castles, manor houses, and palaces. I have come to appreciate that over the top isn’t me. There’s such a thing as too much gilt, and decoration can be oppressive. The other thing that I’ve discovered is how much gardens and grounds are a part of the English homes and castles.
I guess my main decorating thing is my collection of art prints from Matisse, Monet, and Van Gogh. These paintings provide both color and light. With so many colors, I can pick a bedspread or a sofa cover that lets me freshen the room with little effort or cost.
The Gladstone Library sound wonderful. I assume books–histories, biographies, and travel memoirs–are your primary source of research. But do you try to travel to places to get the way the sunshine is golden in the fall and struggling but hopeful in the spring? Or do you use art? (I remember vaguely my art history section on Moghul art.)
In the last couple of months, I have done a selection of castles, manor houses, and palaces. I have come to appreciate that over the top isn’t me. There’s such a thing as too much gilt, and decoration can be oppressive. The other thing that I’ve discovered is how much gardens and grounds are a part of the English homes and castles.
I guess my main decorating thing is my collection of art prints from Matisse, Monet, and Van Gogh. These paintings provide both color and light. With so many colors, I can pick a bedspread or a sofa cover that lets me freshen the room with little effort or cost.
The Gladstone Library sound wonderful. I assume books–histories, biographies, and travel memoirs–are your primary source of research. But do you try to travel to places to get the way the sunshine is golden in the fall and struggling but hopeful in the spring? Or do you use art? (I remember vaguely my art history section on Moghul art.)
In the last couple of months, I have done a selection of castles, manor houses, and palaces. I have come to appreciate that over the top isn’t me. There’s such a thing as too much gilt, and decoration can be oppressive. The other thing that I’ve discovered is how much gardens and grounds are a part of the English homes and castles.
I guess my main decorating thing is my collection of art prints from Matisse, Monet, and Van Gogh. These paintings provide both color and light. With so many colors, I can pick a bedspread or a sofa cover that lets me freshen the room with little effort or cost.
I adore libraries but I always try to visit the locations where my novels are set, if possible, hence my trip to Pesaro this summer. I also went to Tuscany to see the glorious frescoes.
I visited Fulham Palace while writing The Painter’s Apprentice and it was invaluable to walk through the gardens down to the river and feel the wind off the Thames and to sniff the air. It made the story feel real to me and these authentic details add veracity for the reader.
As you say, art is always inspiring. I’m intending to visit the Victoria and Albert museum soon to see the exhibits from life in the palaces at the end of the Mughal empire. There is nothing more exciting for me than bringing the past to life.
I adore libraries but I always try to visit the locations where my novels are set, if possible, hence my trip to Pesaro this summer. I also went to Tuscany to see the glorious frescoes.
I visited Fulham Palace while writing The Painter’s Apprentice and it was invaluable to walk through the gardens down to the river and feel the wind off the Thames and to sniff the air. It made the story feel real to me and these authentic details add veracity for the reader.
As you say, art is always inspiring. I’m intending to visit the Victoria and Albert museum soon to see the exhibits from life in the palaces at the end of the Mughal empire. There is nothing more exciting for me than bringing the past to life.
I adore libraries but I always try to visit the locations where my novels are set, if possible, hence my trip to Pesaro this summer. I also went to Tuscany to see the glorious frescoes.
I visited Fulham Palace while writing The Painter’s Apprentice and it was invaluable to walk through the gardens down to the river and feel the wind off the Thames and to sniff the air. It made the story feel real to me and these authentic details add veracity for the reader.
As you say, art is always inspiring. I’m intending to visit the Victoria and Albert museum soon to see the exhibits from life in the palaces at the end of the Mughal empire. There is nothing more exciting for me than bringing the past to life.
I adore libraries but I always try to visit the locations where my novels are set, if possible, hence my trip to Pesaro this summer. I also went to Tuscany to see the glorious frescoes.
I visited Fulham Palace while writing The Painter’s Apprentice and it was invaluable to walk through the gardens down to the river and feel the wind off the Thames and to sniff the air. It made the story feel real to me and these authentic details add veracity for the reader.
As you say, art is always inspiring. I’m intending to visit the Victoria and Albert museum soon to see the exhibits from life in the palaces at the end of the Mughal empire. There is nothing more exciting for me than bringing the past to life.
I adore libraries but I always try to visit the locations where my novels are set, if possible, hence my trip to Pesaro this summer. I also went to Tuscany to see the glorious frescoes.
I visited Fulham Palace while writing The Painter’s Apprentice and it was invaluable to walk through the gardens down to the river and feel the wind off the Thames and to sniff the air. It made the story feel real to me and these authentic details add veracity for the reader.
As you say, art is always inspiring. I’m intending to visit the Victoria and Albert museum soon to see the exhibits from life in the palaces at the end of the Mughal empire. There is nothing more exciting for me than bringing the past to life.
+++The deadline for finishing the first draft of a novel always seems to coincide with the launch of the previous one, while the publishers are simultaneously asking for an outline for the next one. +++
LOL! Charlotte, I’ve just (JUST!) sent in a book of my own, so I couldn’t agree more. THE HOUSE ON QUILL STREET sounds fascinating, particularly since you’re using different viewpoints of Regency society.
And the Moghul Empire!!!!!!! Keep writing, please!
+++The deadline for finishing the first draft of a novel always seems to coincide with the launch of the previous one, while the publishers are simultaneously asking for an outline for the next one. +++
LOL! Charlotte, I’ve just (JUST!) sent in a book of my own, so I couldn’t agree more. THE HOUSE ON QUILL STREET sounds fascinating, particularly since you’re using different viewpoints of Regency society.
And the Moghul Empire!!!!!!! Keep writing, please!
+++The deadline for finishing the first draft of a novel always seems to coincide with the launch of the previous one, while the publishers are simultaneously asking for an outline for the next one. +++
LOL! Charlotte, I’ve just (JUST!) sent in a book of my own, so I couldn’t agree more. THE HOUSE ON QUILL STREET sounds fascinating, particularly since you’re using different viewpoints of Regency society.
And the Moghul Empire!!!!!!! Keep writing, please!
+++The deadline for finishing the first draft of a novel always seems to coincide with the launch of the previous one, while the publishers are simultaneously asking for an outline for the next one. +++
LOL! Charlotte, I’ve just (JUST!) sent in a book of my own, so I couldn’t agree more. THE HOUSE ON QUILL STREET sounds fascinating, particularly since you’re using different viewpoints of Regency society.
And the Moghul Empire!!!!!!! Keep writing, please!
+++The deadline for finishing the first draft of a novel always seems to coincide with the launch of the previous one, while the publishers are simultaneously asking for an outline for the next one. +++
LOL! Charlotte, I’ve just (JUST!) sent in a book of my own, so I couldn’t agree more. THE HOUSE ON QUILL STREET sounds fascinating, particularly since you’re using different viewpoints of Regency society.
And the Moghul Empire!!!!!!! Keep writing, please!
A very interesting post. As I work with genealogy, I try to research the times and places of my families’ stories. “Begats” are not enough. What was life like for the Indiana farmer in early Wabash County, Indiana? Or for his Pennsylvania Ancestors. What did my husband’s grandfather’s “plantation” in Texas consist of. I often get clues to this type of research from the posts I find here at Word Wenches.
As to decorating style, my parents’ house and all my homes are decorated in what I call “great American hand-me-down.” The dining room furniture is mostly new, in a mixture of furnishings — Danish Modern table, temporary chairs, because we can’t decide on what we want, Barrister Bookcases for the “China Closet”, and bookcases, because it’s a multipurpose room.
The bedroom is somewhat a suite, and looks very nice to me (Early American style modern furniture mixed with a victorian piece or two). All the rest is furniture from somewhere in the past, plus new pieces to replace worn-outs and to cater to modern technology.
It isn’t style, but we’re happy with it.
A very interesting post. As I work with genealogy, I try to research the times and places of my families’ stories. “Begats” are not enough. What was life like for the Indiana farmer in early Wabash County, Indiana? Or for his Pennsylvania Ancestors. What did my husband’s grandfather’s “plantation” in Texas consist of. I often get clues to this type of research from the posts I find here at Word Wenches.
As to decorating style, my parents’ house and all my homes are decorated in what I call “great American hand-me-down.” The dining room furniture is mostly new, in a mixture of furnishings — Danish Modern table, temporary chairs, because we can’t decide on what we want, Barrister Bookcases for the “China Closet”, and bookcases, because it’s a multipurpose room.
The bedroom is somewhat a suite, and looks very nice to me (Early American style modern furniture mixed with a victorian piece or two). All the rest is furniture from somewhere in the past, plus new pieces to replace worn-outs and to cater to modern technology.
It isn’t style, but we’re happy with it.
A very interesting post. As I work with genealogy, I try to research the times and places of my families’ stories. “Begats” are not enough. What was life like for the Indiana farmer in early Wabash County, Indiana? Or for his Pennsylvania Ancestors. What did my husband’s grandfather’s “plantation” in Texas consist of. I often get clues to this type of research from the posts I find here at Word Wenches.
As to decorating style, my parents’ house and all my homes are decorated in what I call “great American hand-me-down.” The dining room furniture is mostly new, in a mixture of furnishings — Danish Modern table, temporary chairs, because we can’t decide on what we want, Barrister Bookcases for the “China Closet”, and bookcases, because it’s a multipurpose room.
The bedroom is somewhat a suite, and looks very nice to me (Early American style modern furniture mixed with a victorian piece or two). All the rest is furniture from somewhere in the past, plus new pieces to replace worn-outs and to cater to modern technology.
It isn’t style, but we’re happy with it.
A very interesting post. As I work with genealogy, I try to research the times and places of my families’ stories. “Begats” are not enough. What was life like for the Indiana farmer in early Wabash County, Indiana? Or for his Pennsylvania Ancestors. What did my husband’s grandfather’s “plantation” in Texas consist of. I often get clues to this type of research from the posts I find here at Word Wenches.
As to decorating style, my parents’ house and all my homes are decorated in what I call “great American hand-me-down.” The dining room furniture is mostly new, in a mixture of furnishings — Danish Modern table, temporary chairs, because we can’t decide on what we want, Barrister Bookcases for the “China Closet”, and bookcases, because it’s a multipurpose room.
The bedroom is somewhat a suite, and looks very nice to me (Early American style modern furniture mixed with a victorian piece or two). All the rest is furniture from somewhere in the past, plus new pieces to replace worn-outs and to cater to modern technology.
It isn’t style, but we’re happy with it.
A very interesting post. As I work with genealogy, I try to research the times and places of my families’ stories. “Begats” are not enough. What was life like for the Indiana farmer in early Wabash County, Indiana? Or for his Pennsylvania Ancestors. What did my husband’s grandfather’s “plantation” in Texas consist of. I often get clues to this type of research from the posts I find here at Word Wenches.
As to decorating style, my parents’ house and all my homes are decorated in what I call “great American hand-me-down.” The dining room furniture is mostly new, in a mixture of furnishings — Danish Modern table, temporary chairs, because we can’t decide on what we want, Barrister Bookcases for the “China Closet”, and bookcases, because it’s a multipurpose room.
The bedroom is somewhat a suite, and looks very nice to me (Early American style modern furniture mixed with a victorian piece or two). All the rest is furniture from somewhere in the past, plus new pieces to replace worn-outs and to cater to modern technology.
It isn’t style, but we’re happy with it.
We call the style “Early Garage Sale.” I think almost all young couples have this when they are starting out because they can’t afford to buy what they like. Then there are stylistic differences between the couple depending on what they knew growing up. Coming up with a blended style is a challenge. In our case, my DH decided I was the boss of the decorating (BIG mistake) and he would live with what I chose. This keeps him from having to shop and look at pattern books.
We call the style “Early Garage Sale.” I think almost all young couples have this when they are starting out because they can’t afford to buy what they like. Then there are stylistic differences between the couple depending on what they knew growing up. Coming up with a blended style is a challenge. In our case, my DH decided I was the boss of the decorating (BIG mistake) and he would live with what I chose. This keeps him from having to shop and look at pattern books.
We call the style “Early Garage Sale.” I think almost all young couples have this when they are starting out because they can’t afford to buy what they like. Then there are stylistic differences between the couple depending on what they knew growing up. Coming up with a blended style is a challenge. In our case, my DH decided I was the boss of the decorating (BIG mistake) and he would live with what I chose. This keeps him from having to shop and look at pattern books.
We call the style “Early Garage Sale.” I think almost all young couples have this when they are starting out because they can’t afford to buy what they like. Then there are stylistic differences between the couple depending on what they knew growing up. Coming up with a blended style is a challenge. In our case, my DH decided I was the boss of the decorating (BIG mistake) and he would live with what I chose. This keeps him from having to shop and look at pattern books.
We call the style “Early Garage Sale.” I think almost all young couples have this when they are starting out because they can’t afford to buy what they like. Then there are stylistic differences between the couple depending on what they knew growing up. Coming up with a blended style is a challenge. In our case, my DH decided I was the boss of the decorating (BIG mistake) and he would live with what I chose. This keeps him from having to shop and look at pattern books.
I love furniture with a history., just as I like living in old houses. It’s interesting to imagine the lives of our forbears who used the family hand-me-downs. You can very happily add contemporary touches to avoid the ‘living in a museum’ look.
I love furniture with a history., just as I like living in old houses. It’s interesting to imagine the lives of our forbears who used the family hand-me-downs. You can very happily add contemporary touches to avoid the ‘living in a museum’ look.
I love furniture with a history., just as I like living in old houses. It’s interesting to imagine the lives of our forbears who used the family hand-me-downs. You can very happily add contemporary touches to avoid the ‘living in a museum’ look.
I love furniture with a history., just as I like living in old houses. It’s interesting to imagine the lives of our forbears who used the family hand-me-downs. You can very happily add contemporary touches to avoid the ‘living in a museum’ look.
I love furniture with a history., just as I like living in old houses. It’s interesting to imagine the lives of our forbears who used the family hand-me-downs. You can very happily add contemporary touches to avoid the ‘living in a museum’ look.
Well done for finishing your recent book. It’s always sad, though, to have to say goodbye to the characters and places that have been such a part of your life over the last year or so. But then there are always new characters waiting around the corner …
Well done for finishing your recent book. It’s always sad, though, to have to say goodbye to the characters and places that have been such a part of your life over the last year or so. But then there are always new characters waiting around the corner …
Well done for finishing your recent book. It’s always sad, though, to have to say goodbye to the characters and places that have been such a part of your life over the last year or so. But then there are always new characters waiting around the corner …
Well done for finishing your recent book. It’s always sad, though, to have to say goodbye to the characters and places that have been such a part of your life over the last year or so. But then there are always new characters waiting around the corner …
Well done for finishing your recent book. It’s always sad, though, to have to say goodbye to the characters and places that have been such a part of your life over the last year or so. But then there are always new characters waiting around the corner …
It IS style, your style! A home is meant to be comfortable and to make you feel safe and happy.
It IS style, your style! A home is meant to be comfortable and to make you feel safe and happy.
It IS style, your style! A home is meant to be comfortable and to make you feel safe and happy.
It IS style, your style! A home is meant to be comfortable and to make you feel safe and happy.
It IS style, your style! A home is meant to be comfortable and to make you feel safe and happy.
Fascinating post, Charlotte and Nicola! I love the sound of your in-depth research—that sort of detail makes for the best reads, IMO. Love learning the real nitty-gritty of an era and a profession. Can’t wait to read both books you mentioned!
Fascinating post, Charlotte and Nicola! I love the sound of your in-depth research—that sort of detail makes for the best reads, IMO. Love learning the real nitty-gritty of an era and a profession. Can’t wait to read both books you mentioned!
Fascinating post, Charlotte and Nicola! I love the sound of your in-depth research—that sort of detail makes for the best reads, IMO. Love learning the real nitty-gritty of an era and a profession. Can’t wait to read both books you mentioned!
Fascinating post, Charlotte and Nicola! I love the sound of your in-depth research—that sort of detail makes for the best reads, IMO. Love learning the real nitty-gritty of an era and a profession. Can’t wait to read both books you mentioned!
Fascinating post, Charlotte and Nicola! I love the sound of your in-depth research—that sort of detail makes for the best reads, IMO. Love learning the real nitty-gritty of an era and a profession. Can’t wait to read both books you mentioned!
Charlotte, they aren’t gone–they’re still in my mind and I can visit them any time I want. This may not be a good thing. *G*
Charlotte, they aren’t gone–they’re still in my mind and I can visit them any time I want. This may not be a good thing. *G*
Charlotte, they aren’t gone–they’re still in my mind and I can visit them any time I want. This may not be a good thing. *G*
Charlotte, they aren’t gone–they’re still in my mind and I can visit them any time I want. This may not be a good thing. *G*
Charlotte, they aren’t gone–they’re still in my mind and I can visit them any time I want. This may not be a good thing. *G*
Your research sounds fascinating. I enjoy reading novels that give me a visceral response to the descriptions of character and setting.
My decor is simple, since there isn’t a lot of space for me to work with.
The best part of my studio apartment are the windows. In this old building I’m in the ceilings are high.
I purchased teal curtains to cover the room-darkening shades as well as a thick liner in front of the shades for more light blocking. This way the light at the crack of dawn is mostly hidden, and I can sleep a little longer.
Furniture is stacked side by side along one long wall with the bed lengthwise without a wall at the head to create more room on the other side. There’s not much space between sides. Small tables are scattered here and there.
I got rid of several pieces of furniture to make it easier to live in a studio, so I could still remain in NYC and pay less rent.
It’s practical with no chic whatsoever, but it works well for me to be free of extras. I do the Kon Mari Method – “The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Marie Kondo.
Your research sounds fascinating. I enjoy reading novels that give me a visceral response to the descriptions of character and setting.
My decor is simple, since there isn’t a lot of space for me to work with.
The best part of my studio apartment are the windows. In this old building I’m in the ceilings are high.
I purchased teal curtains to cover the room-darkening shades as well as a thick liner in front of the shades for more light blocking. This way the light at the crack of dawn is mostly hidden, and I can sleep a little longer.
Furniture is stacked side by side along one long wall with the bed lengthwise without a wall at the head to create more room on the other side. There’s not much space between sides. Small tables are scattered here and there.
I got rid of several pieces of furniture to make it easier to live in a studio, so I could still remain in NYC and pay less rent.
It’s practical with no chic whatsoever, but it works well for me to be free of extras. I do the Kon Mari Method – “The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Marie Kondo.
Your research sounds fascinating. I enjoy reading novels that give me a visceral response to the descriptions of character and setting.
My decor is simple, since there isn’t a lot of space for me to work with.
The best part of my studio apartment are the windows. In this old building I’m in the ceilings are high.
I purchased teal curtains to cover the room-darkening shades as well as a thick liner in front of the shades for more light blocking. This way the light at the crack of dawn is mostly hidden, and I can sleep a little longer.
Furniture is stacked side by side along one long wall with the bed lengthwise without a wall at the head to create more room on the other side. There’s not much space between sides. Small tables are scattered here and there.
I got rid of several pieces of furniture to make it easier to live in a studio, so I could still remain in NYC and pay less rent.
It’s practical with no chic whatsoever, but it works well for me to be free of extras. I do the Kon Mari Method – “The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Marie Kondo.
Your research sounds fascinating. I enjoy reading novels that give me a visceral response to the descriptions of character and setting.
My decor is simple, since there isn’t a lot of space for me to work with.
The best part of my studio apartment are the windows. In this old building I’m in the ceilings are high.
I purchased teal curtains to cover the room-darkening shades as well as a thick liner in front of the shades for more light blocking. This way the light at the crack of dawn is mostly hidden, and I can sleep a little longer.
Furniture is stacked side by side along one long wall with the bed lengthwise without a wall at the head to create more room on the other side. There’s not much space between sides. Small tables are scattered here and there.
I got rid of several pieces of furniture to make it easier to live in a studio, so I could still remain in NYC and pay less rent.
It’s practical with no chic whatsoever, but it works well for me to be free of extras. I do the Kon Mari Method – “The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Marie Kondo.
Your research sounds fascinating. I enjoy reading novels that give me a visceral response to the descriptions of character and setting.
My decor is simple, since there isn’t a lot of space for me to work with.
The best part of my studio apartment are the windows. In this old building I’m in the ceilings are high.
I purchased teal curtains to cover the room-darkening shades as well as a thick liner in front of the shades for more light blocking. This way the light at the crack of dawn is mostly hidden, and I can sleep a little longer.
Furniture is stacked side by side along one long wall with the bed lengthwise without a wall at the head to create more room on the other side. There’s not much space between sides. Small tables are scattered here and there.
I got rid of several pieces of furniture to make it easier to live in a studio, so I could still remain in NYC and pay less rent.
It’s practical with no chic whatsoever, but it works well for me to be free of extras. I do the Kon Mari Method – “The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Marie Kondo.
Ah, research! My heart’s companion and my wicked addiction! Every new research book that comes into my house is petted and fawned over like a new kitten. I am fortunate in that I have an uncanny ability to find used copies of some very expensive books in great condition for mere pennies.
I love the sound of your book, Charlotte. My favorite era is the Regency and I find it a fascinating time in history. I especially love the style of Robert Adam when it comes to Regency decor. And the furniture of Heppelwhite. Men all over the world should thank him as he was the man who designed the first armchairs.
My house is primarily decorated with books. In every room including the bathroom. Bookshelves everywhere. And Regency era maps and prints.
Can’t wait to read The House in Quill Court and your next book sounds like an intriguing one as well!
Ah, research! My heart’s companion and my wicked addiction! Every new research book that comes into my house is petted and fawned over like a new kitten. I am fortunate in that I have an uncanny ability to find used copies of some very expensive books in great condition for mere pennies.
I love the sound of your book, Charlotte. My favorite era is the Regency and I find it a fascinating time in history. I especially love the style of Robert Adam when it comes to Regency decor. And the furniture of Heppelwhite. Men all over the world should thank him as he was the man who designed the first armchairs.
My house is primarily decorated with books. In every room including the bathroom. Bookshelves everywhere. And Regency era maps and prints.
Can’t wait to read The House in Quill Court and your next book sounds like an intriguing one as well!
Ah, research! My heart’s companion and my wicked addiction! Every new research book that comes into my house is petted and fawned over like a new kitten. I am fortunate in that I have an uncanny ability to find used copies of some very expensive books in great condition for mere pennies.
I love the sound of your book, Charlotte. My favorite era is the Regency and I find it a fascinating time in history. I especially love the style of Robert Adam when it comes to Regency decor. And the furniture of Heppelwhite. Men all over the world should thank him as he was the man who designed the first armchairs.
My house is primarily decorated with books. In every room including the bathroom. Bookshelves everywhere. And Regency era maps and prints.
Can’t wait to read The House in Quill Court and your next book sounds like an intriguing one as well!
Ah, research! My heart’s companion and my wicked addiction! Every new research book that comes into my house is petted and fawned over like a new kitten. I am fortunate in that I have an uncanny ability to find used copies of some very expensive books in great condition for mere pennies.
I love the sound of your book, Charlotte. My favorite era is the Regency and I find it a fascinating time in history. I especially love the style of Robert Adam when it comes to Regency decor. And the furniture of Heppelwhite. Men all over the world should thank him as he was the man who designed the first armchairs.
My house is primarily decorated with books. In every room including the bathroom. Bookshelves everywhere. And Regency era maps and prints.
Can’t wait to read The House in Quill Court and your next book sounds like an intriguing one as well!
Ah, research! My heart’s companion and my wicked addiction! Every new research book that comes into my house is petted and fawned over like a new kitten. I am fortunate in that I have an uncanny ability to find used copies of some very expensive books in great condition for mere pennies.
I love the sound of your book, Charlotte. My favorite era is the Regency and I find it a fascinating time in history. I especially love the style of Robert Adam when it comes to Regency decor. And the furniture of Heppelwhite. Men all over the world should thank him as he was the man who designed the first armchairs.
My house is primarily decorated with books. In every room including the bathroom. Bookshelves everywhere. And Regency era maps and prints.
Can’t wait to read The House in Quill Court and your next book sounds like an intriguing one as well!
I now fold moe of my clothes following Marie Kondo’s method and it saves a lot of space – if you have enough drawers. I haven’t quite got the hang of disposing of clothes that don’t ‘bring me joy’ yet!
High ceilings make a small space feel much larger than it is. Teal is a wonderfully dramatic colour for a bedroom and looks incredibly opulent with metallic accents and mirrors to give slivers of light.
I now fold moe of my clothes following Marie Kondo’s method and it saves a lot of space – if you have enough drawers. I haven’t quite got the hang of disposing of clothes that don’t ‘bring me joy’ yet!
High ceilings make a small space feel much larger than it is. Teal is a wonderfully dramatic colour for a bedroom and looks incredibly opulent with metallic accents and mirrors to give slivers of light.
I now fold moe of my clothes following Marie Kondo’s method and it saves a lot of space – if you have enough drawers. I haven’t quite got the hang of disposing of clothes that don’t ‘bring me joy’ yet!
High ceilings make a small space feel much larger than it is. Teal is a wonderfully dramatic colour for a bedroom and looks incredibly opulent with metallic accents and mirrors to give slivers of light.
I now fold moe of my clothes following Marie Kondo’s method and it saves a lot of space – if you have enough drawers. I haven’t quite got the hang of disposing of clothes that don’t ‘bring me joy’ yet!
High ceilings make a small space feel much larger than it is. Teal is a wonderfully dramatic colour for a bedroom and looks incredibly opulent with metallic accents and mirrors to give slivers of light.
I now fold moe of my clothes following Marie Kondo’s method and it saves a lot of space – if you have enough drawers. I haven’t quite got the hang of disposing of clothes that don’t ‘bring me joy’ yet!
High ceilings make a small space feel much larger than it is. Teal is a wonderfully dramatic colour for a bedroom and looks incredibly opulent with metallic accents and mirrors to give slivers of light.
Second hand book shops can be a treasure trove and I have discovered many invaluable reference books there. And don’t get me started on maps! I can lose hours as I mentally walk around an old map of London, imagining all the sights and sounds I’d have seen at the time.
In my view, a home isn’t a home without books. The trick is to contain them to one wall in a room and try to avoid the towering piles on the floor! I’m lucky enough to have a garden writing room and have covered one entire wall with inexpensive shelving from Ikea and all my research books live there. It gives me a great sense of purpose when I start to write to know all my lovely books are to hand.
Second hand book shops can be a treasure trove and I have discovered many invaluable reference books there. And don’t get me started on maps! I can lose hours as I mentally walk around an old map of London, imagining all the sights and sounds I’d have seen at the time.
In my view, a home isn’t a home without books. The trick is to contain them to one wall in a room and try to avoid the towering piles on the floor! I’m lucky enough to have a garden writing room and have covered one entire wall with inexpensive shelving from Ikea and all my research books live there. It gives me a great sense of purpose when I start to write to know all my lovely books are to hand.
Second hand book shops can be a treasure trove and I have discovered many invaluable reference books there. And don’t get me started on maps! I can lose hours as I mentally walk around an old map of London, imagining all the sights and sounds I’d have seen at the time.
In my view, a home isn’t a home without books. The trick is to contain them to one wall in a room and try to avoid the towering piles on the floor! I’m lucky enough to have a garden writing room and have covered one entire wall with inexpensive shelving from Ikea and all my research books live there. It gives me a great sense of purpose when I start to write to know all my lovely books are to hand.
Second hand book shops can be a treasure trove and I have discovered many invaluable reference books there. And don’t get me started on maps! I can lose hours as I mentally walk around an old map of London, imagining all the sights and sounds I’d have seen at the time.
In my view, a home isn’t a home without books. The trick is to contain them to one wall in a room and try to avoid the towering piles on the floor! I’m lucky enough to have a garden writing room and have covered one entire wall with inexpensive shelving from Ikea and all my research books live there. It gives me a great sense of purpose when I start to write to know all my lovely books are to hand.
Second hand book shops can be a treasure trove and I have discovered many invaluable reference books there. And don’t get me started on maps! I can lose hours as I mentally walk around an old map of London, imagining all the sights and sounds I’d have seen at the time.
In my view, a home isn’t a home without books. The trick is to contain them to one wall in a room and try to avoid the towering piles on the floor! I’m lucky enough to have a garden writing room and have covered one entire wall with inexpensive shelving from Ikea and all my research books live there. It gives me a great sense of purpose when I start to write to know all my lovely books are to hand.
Writing about something you’ve spent a lot of time researching is like an iceberg; only 10% shows above the water. It’s important not to bore the reader with an info dump. The process of research, for me, is partly selfish as it gives me an excuse to learn something new.
Writing about something you’ve spent a lot of time researching is like an iceberg; only 10% shows above the water. It’s important not to bore the reader with an info dump. The process of research, for me, is partly selfish as it gives me an excuse to learn something new.
Writing about something you’ve spent a lot of time researching is like an iceberg; only 10% shows above the water. It’s important not to bore the reader with an info dump. The process of research, for me, is partly selfish as it gives me an excuse to learn something new.
Writing about something you’ve spent a lot of time researching is like an iceberg; only 10% shows above the water. It’s important not to bore the reader with an info dump. The process of research, for me, is partly selfish as it gives me an excuse to learn something new.
Writing about something you’ve spent a lot of time researching is like an iceberg; only 10% shows above the water. It’s important not to bore the reader with an info dump. The process of research, for me, is partly selfish as it gives me an excuse to learn something new.
Charlotte, welcome to the word wenches. Loved this post and can’t wait to read your books. I love rich and varied settings.
Charlotte, welcome to the word wenches. Loved this post and can’t wait to read your books. I love rich and varied settings.
Charlotte, welcome to the word wenches. Loved this post and can’t wait to read your books. I love rich and varied settings.
Charlotte, welcome to the word wenches. Loved this post and can’t wait to read your books. I love rich and varied settings.
Charlotte, welcome to the word wenches. Loved this post and can’t wait to read your books. I love rich and varied settings.
“sharp contrasts in a society where the middle and upper classes enjoyed balls and tea parties in elegant town houses set around garden squares, while the poor lived in squalor in the noisome alleyways only a step away.”
Hi Charlotte and Nicola.
I often wonder when readers criticise historical novels for not always rigorously reflecting the conventions and traditions of the chosen period. For example I recall one novel where a heroine in Regency times pursues athletic interests and dresses in a slovenly manner while dashing for a morning swim in the estate lake.Apparently no respectable lady of the period could possibly indulge in such behaviour! To me it seems plausible that there is a spectrum between the ton of London and the squalor of the poor so that say an estate far from London, maybe in inaccessible Exmoor, could hide some really eccentric behaviour by the well-to-do and also from the poor.
Delighted to see that you publish in audio. Just added your début novel to my audio TBR ( ‘The Apothecary’s Daughter’ read by Anne Dover)
“sharp contrasts in a society where the middle and upper classes enjoyed balls and tea parties in elegant town houses set around garden squares, while the poor lived in squalor in the noisome alleyways only a step away.”
Hi Charlotte and Nicola.
I often wonder when readers criticise historical novels for not always rigorously reflecting the conventions and traditions of the chosen period. For example I recall one novel where a heroine in Regency times pursues athletic interests and dresses in a slovenly manner while dashing for a morning swim in the estate lake.Apparently no respectable lady of the period could possibly indulge in such behaviour! To me it seems plausible that there is a spectrum between the ton of London and the squalor of the poor so that say an estate far from London, maybe in inaccessible Exmoor, could hide some really eccentric behaviour by the well-to-do and also from the poor.
Delighted to see that you publish in audio. Just added your début novel to my audio TBR ( ‘The Apothecary’s Daughter’ read by Anne Dover)
“sharp contrasts in a society where the middle and upper classes enjoyed balls and tea parties in elegant town houses set around garden squares, while the poor lived in squalor in the noisome alleyways only a step away.”
Hi Charlotte and Nicola.
I often wonder when readers criticise historical novels for not always rigorously reflecting the conventions and traditions of the chosen period. For example I recall one novel where a heroine in Regency times pursues athletic interests and dresses in a slovenly manner while dashing for a morning swim in the estate lake.Apparently no respectable lady of the period could possibly indulge in such behaviour! To me it seems plausible that there is a spectrum between the ton of London and the squalor of the poor so that say an estate far from London, maybe in inaccessible Exmoor, could hide some really eccentric behaviour by the well-to-do and also from the poor.
Delighted to see that you publish in audio. Just added your début novel to my audio TBR ( ‘The Apothecary’s Daughter’ read by Anne Dover)
“sharp contrasts in a society where the middle and upper classes enjoyed balls and tea parties in elegant town houses set around garden squares, while the poor lived in squalor in the noisome alleyways only a step away.”
Hi Charlotte and Nicola.
I often wonder when readers criticise historical novels for not always rigorously reflecting the conventions and traditions of the chosen period. For example I recall one novel where a heroine in Regency times pursues athletic interests and dresses in a slovenly manner while dashing for a morning swim in the estate lake.Apparently no respectable lady of the period could possibly indulge in such behaviour! To me it seems plausible that there is a spectrum between the ton of London and the squalor of the poor so that say an estate far from London, maybe in inaccessible Exmoor, could hide some really eccentric behaviour by the well-to-do and also from the poor.
Delighted to see that you publish in audio. Just added your début novel to my audio TBR ( ‘The Apothecary’s Daughter’ read by Anne Dover)
“sharp contrasts in a society where the middle and upper classes enjoyed balls and tea parties in elegant town houses set around garden squares, while the poor lived in squalor in the noisome alleyways only a step away.”
Hi Charlotte and Nicola.
I often wonder when readers criticise historical novels for not always rigorously reflecting the conventions and traditions of the chosen period. For example I recall one novel where a heroine in Regency times pursues athletic interests and dresses in a slovenly manner while dashing for a morning swim in the estate lake.Apparently no respectable lady of the period could possibly indulge in such behaviour! To me it seems plausible that there is a spectrum between the ton of London and the squalor of the poor so that say an estate far from London, maybe in inaccessible Exmoor, could hide some really eccentric behaviour by the well-to-do and also from the poor.
Delighted to see that you publish in audio. Just added your début novel to my audio TBR ( ‘The Apothecary’s Daughter’ read by Anne Dover)
Charlotte, I need you come and re-design my house! I love your ideas. We had part of it remodelled last year and of course now I’m looking at the rest of it and thinking it lets the side down. I don’t know about Marie Kondo’s method for folding clothes but it feels like something I should look into and I definitely need to get rid of clothes that don’t bring me joy!
Charlotte, I need you come and re-design my house! I love your ideas. We had part of it remodelled last year and of course now I’m looking at the rest of it and thinking it lets the side down. I don’t know about Marie Kondo’s method for folding clothes but it feels like something I should look into and I definitely need to get rid of clothes that don’t bring me joy!
Charlotte, I need you come and re-design my house! I love your ideas. We had part of it remodelled last year and of course now I’m looking at the rest of it and thinking it lets the side down. I don’t know about Marie Kondo’s method for folding clothes but it feels like something I should look into and I definitely need to get rid of clothes that don’t bring me joy!
Charlotte, I need you come and re-design my house! I love your ideas. We had part of it remodelled last year and of course now I’m looking at the rest of it and thinking it lets the side down. I don’t know about Marie Kondo’s method for folding clothes but it feels like something I should look into and I definitely need to get rid of clothes that don’t bring me joy!
Charlotte, I need you come and re-design my house! I love your ideas. We had part of it remodelled last year and of course now I’m looking at the rest of it and thinking it lets the side down. I don’t know about Marie Kondo’s method for folding clothes but it feels like something I should look into and I definitely need to get rid of clothes that don’t bring me joy!
I think that is a very valid point, Quantum. People being people, there are sure to be some girls who could swim, for example, and if the current aristocracy is any sign, some true eccentrics! Also no one was making a note of what the poor were up to for much of the time, so who knows? I think the important thing is that if you have a heroine who can swim (as I did in one book) there should be a good reason why she has learned. All things are possible but they need to seem reasonable, to my mind!
I think that is a very valid point, Quantum. People being people, there are sure to be some girls who could swim, for example, and if the current aristocracy is any sign, some true eccentrics! Also no one was making a note of what the poor were up to for much of the time, so who knows? I think the important thing is that if you have a heroine who can swim (as I did in one book) there should be a good reason why she has learned. All things are possible but they need to seem reasonable, to my mind!
I think that is a very valid point, Quantum. People being people, there are sure to be some girls who could swim, for example, and if the current aristocracy is any sign, some true eccentrics! Also no one was making a note of what the poor were up to for much of the time, so who knows? I think the important thing is that if you have a heroine who can swim (as I did in one book) there should be a good reason why she has learned. All things are possible but they need to seem reasonable, to my mind!
I think that is a very valid point, Quantum. People being people, there are sure to be some girls who could swim, for example, and if the current aristocracy is any sign, some true eccentrics! Also no one was making a note of what the poor were up to for much of the time, so who knows? I think the important thing is that if you have a heroine who can swim (as I did in one book) there should be a good reason why she has learned. All things are possible but they need to seem reasonable, to my mind!
I think that is a very valid point, Quantum. People being people, there are sure to be some girls who could swim, for example, and if the current aristocracy is any sign, some true eccentrics! Also no one was making a note of what the poor were up to for much of the time, so who knows? I think the important thing is that if you have a heroine who can swim (as I did in one book) there should be a good reason why she has learned. All things are possible but they need to seem reasonable, to my mind!
I’m redecorating my writing room and the walls are patched with paint samples. Just when I think I’ve made the perfect choice the light changes and then the alternatives look better! I’ve been selecting colour schemes for years but some colours can still catch me by surprise. Never mind the colour I choose, the decluttering has to come first – amazing how ‘stuff’ builds up, isn’t it?
I’m redecorating my writing room and the walls are patched with paint samples. Just when I think I’ve made the perfect choice the light changes and then the alternatives look better! I’ve been selecting colour schemes for years but some colours can still catch me by surprise. Never mind the colour I choose, the decluttering has to come first – amazing how ‘stuff’ builds up, isn’t it?
I’m redecorating my writing room and the walls are patched with paint samples. Just when I think I’ve made the perfect choice the light changes and then the alternatives look better! I’ve been selecting colour schemes for years but some colours can still catch me by surprise. Never mind the colour I choose, the decluttering has to come first – amazing how ‘stuff’ builds up, isn’t it?
I’m redecorating my writing room and the walls are patched with paint samples. Just when I think I’ve made the perfect choice the light changes and then the alternatives look better! I’ve been selecting colour schemes for years but some colours can still catch me by surprise. Never mind the colour I choose, the decluttering has to come first – amazing how ‘stuff’ builds up, isn’t it?
I’m redecorating my writing room and the walls are patched with paint samples. Just when I think I’ve made the perfect choice the light changes and then the alternatives look better! I’ve been selecting colour schemes for years but some colours can still catch me by surprise. Never mind the colour I choose, the decluttering has to come first – amazing how ‘stuff’ builds up, isn’t it?
Thank you for the welcome, Anne. I love the Word Wenches blog and it’s full of interesting ideas and information.
Thank you for the welcome, Anne. I love the Word Wenches blog and it’s full of interesting ideas and information.
Thank you for the welcome, Anne. I love the Word Wenches blog and it’s full of interesting ideas and information.
Thank you for the welcome, Anne. I love the Word Wenches blog and it’s full of interesting ideas and information.
Thank you for the welcome, Anne. I love the Word Wenches blog and it’s full of interesting ideas and information.
I’m sure you are right, Quantum and Nicola, about what was acceptable as polite behaviour along the social spectrum. No doubt there was a certain amount of hypocrisy, too, in how people behaved alone and in company.
Bathing, of course, became popular in the Regency era and I write about my heroine taking a dip in the sea in The Dressmaker’s Secret. Male and female bathers were sometimes separated on the beach as they may have entered the water naked or clothed only in a simple swimming shift.
I hope you enjoy The Apothecary’s Daughter, Quantum.
I’m sure you are right, Quantum and Nicola, about what was acceptable as polite behaviour along the social spectrum. No doubt there was a certain amount of hypocrisy, too, in how people behaved alone and in company.
Bathing, of course, became popular in the Regency era and I write about my heroine taking a dip in the sea in The Dressmaker’s Secret. Male and female bathers were sometimes separated on the beach as they may have entered the water naked or clothed only in a simple swimming shift.
I hope you enjoy The Apothecary’s Daughter, Quantum.
I’m sure you are right, Quantum and Nicola, about what was acceptable as polite behaviour along the social spectrum. No doubt there was a certain amount of hypocrisy, too, in how people behaved alone and in company.
Bathing, of course, became popular in the Regency era and I write about my heroine taking a dip in the sea in The Dressmaker’s Secret. Male and female bathers were sometimes separated on the beach as they may have entered the water naked or clothed only in a simple swimming shift.
I hope you enjoy The Apothecary’s Daughter, Quantum.
I’m sure you are right, Quantum and Nicola, about what was acceptable as polite behaviour along the social spectrum. No doubt there was a certain amount of hypocrisy, too, in how people behaved alone and in company.
Bathing, of course, became popular in the Regency era and I write about my heroine taking a dip in the sea in The Dressmaker’s Secret. Male and female bathers were sometimes separated on the beach as they may have entered the water naked or clothed only in a simple swimming shift.
I hope you enjoy The Apothecary’s Daughter, Quantum.
I’m sure you are right, Quantum and Nicola, about what was acceptable as polite behaviour along the social spectrum. No doubt there was a certain amount of hypocrisy, too, in how people behaved alone and in company.
Bathing, of course, became popular in the Regency era and I write about my heroine taking a dip in the sea in The Dressmaker’s Secret. Male and female bathers were sometimes separated on the beach as they may have entered the water naked or clothed only in a simple swimming shift.
I hope you enjoy The Apothecary’s Daughter, Quantum.
A very enjoyable post. I love the Regency style. Some of it is a bit over the top but I love the furniture. I’m not very good at decorating myself. I tend to keep things simple. My ideal home though would be a country cottage. I love the ones you see on the tv shows like Escape to the Country. A lovely big kitchen with a scrubbed wooden table is my idea of heaven!And beams on the ceiling with bunches of herbs hanging from them. (Think I’m getting a bit carried away now)!!
A very enjoyable post. I love the Regency style. Some of it is a bit over the top but I love the furniture. I’m not very good at decorating myself. I tend to keep things simple. My ideal home though would be a country cottage. I love the ones you see on the tv shows like Escape to the Country. A lovely big kitchen with a scrubbed wooden table is my idea of heaven!And beams on the ceiling with bunches of herbs hanging from them. (Think I’m getting a bit carried away now)!!
A very enjoyable post. I love the Regency style. Some of it is a bit over the top but I love the furniture. I’m not very good at decorating myself. I tend to keep things simple. My ideal home though would be a country cottage. I love the ones you see on the tv shows like Escape to the Country. A lovely big kitchen with a scrubbed wooden table is my idea of heaven!And beams on the ceiling with bunches of herbs hanging from them. (Think I’m getting a bit carried away now)!!
A very enjoyable post. I love the Regency style. Some of it is a bit over the top but I love the furniture. I’m not very good at decorating myself. I tend to keep things simple. My ideal home though would be a country cottage. I love the ones you see on the tv shows like Escape to the Country. A lovely big kitchen with a scrubbed wooden table is my idea of heaven!And beams on the ceiling with bunches of herbs hanging from them. (Think I’m getting a bit carried away now)!!
A very enjoyable post. I love the Regency style. Some of it is a bit over the top but I love the furniture. I’m not very good at decorating myself. I tend to keep things simple. My ideal home though would be a country cottage. I love the ones you see on the tv shows like Escape to the Country. A lovely big kitchen with a scrubbed wooden table is my idea of heaven!And beams on the ceiling with bunches of herbs hanging from them. (Think I’m getting a bit carried away now)!!
Oh, yes. I love eating at my grandmother’s dining table. Many of the things in our home now are “passed alongs” that bring back many happy memories of those who left them behind.
Oh, yes. I love eating at my grandmother’s dining table. Many of the things in our home now are “passed alongs” that bring back many happy memories of those who left them behind.
Oh, yes. I love eating at my grandmother’s dining table. Many of the things in our home now are “passed alongs” that bring back many happy memories of those who left them behind.
Oh, yes. I love eating at my grandmother’s dining table. Many of the things in our home now are “passed alongs” that bring back many happy memories of those who left them behind.
Oh, yes. I love eating at my grandmother’s dining table. Many of the things in our home now are “passed alongs” that bring back many happy memories of those who left them behind.
Thank you for the introduction to your works. I was so taken with what I read that I bought 2 Nook books to try.
Thank you for the introduction to your works. I was so taken with what I read that I bought 2 Nook books to try.
Thank you for the introduction to your works. I was so taken with what I read that I bought 2 Nook books to try.
Thank you for the introduction to your works. I was so taken with what I read that I bought 2 Nook books to try.
Thank you for the introduction to your works. I was so taken with what I read that I bought 2 Nook books to try.
Thank you, Kathy and I hope you like them!
Thank you, Kathy and I hope you like them!
Thank you, Kathy and I hope you like them!
Thank you, Kathy and I hope you like them!
Thank you, Kathy and I hope you like them!
I agree. There’s something timeless and comforting about a country kitchen where everyone can gather round the table and drink tea and eat cake. Heart of the home, in my opinion!
I agree. There’s something timeless and comforting about a country kitchen where everyone can gather round the table and drink tea and eat cake. Heart of the home, in my opinion!
I agree. There’s something timeless and comforting about a country kitchen where everyone can gather round the table and drink tea and eat cake. Heart of the home, in my opinion!
I agree. There’s something timeless and comforting about a country kitchen where everyone can gather round the table and drink tea and eat cake. Heart of the home, in my opinion!
I agree. There’s something timeless and comforting about a country kitchen where everyone can gather round the table and drink tea and eat cake. Heart of the home, in my opinion!
A huge thank you to Charlotte for being our guest on Word Wenches and sharing such a wonderful blog and chatting with us. it’s been great! We’ll be notifying the winner of the prize drawing shortly.
A huge thank you to Charlotte for being our guest on Word Wenches and sharing such a wonderful blog and chatting with us. it’s been great! We’ll be notifying the winner of the prize drawing shortly.
A huge thank you to Charlotte for being our guest on Word Wenches and sharing such a wonderful blog and chatting with us. it’s been great! We’ll be notifying the winner of the prize drawing shortly.
A huge thank you to Charlotte for being our guest on Word Wenches and sharing such a wonderful blog and chatting with us. it’s been great! We’ll be notifying the winner of the prize drawing shortly.
A huge thank you to Charlotte for being our guest on Word Wenches and sharing such a wonderful blog and chatting with us. it’s been great! We’ll be notifying the winner of the prize drawing shortly.