Andrea here, breathing a happy sigh. It’s always a good feeling to finish a manuscript, fiddle and fret over the last little revisions, and then draw a deep breath and press SEND to my editor. The story is a new Wrexford & Sloane mystery, which is slated to publish in September of 2022. (Publishing schedules gets very disorienting for authors . . . my head is still percolating with the plots of this one, but as I gear up to begin promo for my upcoming September release, I have to return to a previous murder investigation . . .)
So, am I putting my feet and having my editorial assistants bring me melon by the pool? (I wish . . . but they’ve informed me that they are taking a summer vacation, leaving me to fend for myself.) The truth is, I already have snippets of ideas dancing around in my head for the next book . . .This is the time when I collect all those shiny little baubles—a place, a person, a “MacGuffin” that I think would be fun to weave into a plot—and put them in a folder. (That’s the easy part! When I get to the middle of the next manuscript, I’m usually gnashing my teeth and asking “Why did I ever think this was a good idea?”)
But I’m digressing . . .
One of the baubles for my next manuscript is Oxford University’s Merton College, in which I set a scene in the book that I just sent off. Sometimes history is such fun in that it gives an author a perfect plot scenarios from real life. I won’t talk too much about the specifics, since the book won’t be out for over a year, but there was a wonderful gathering of foreign monarchs and dignitaries in Oxford for several days, which allowed for some very fun skullduggery to take place at the actual events that happened within university—especially in Merton College.
In a fun confluence of connection, a very good friend of mine from college spent two years doing a graduate degree at Oxford and was in Merton College. So when I’ve visited Oxford, I’ve spent a goodly amount of time exploring the courtyards and the famous chapel, with “insider” notes on things to see. And I snapped a lot of photos . . . so when it turned out that Merton was to make a cameo in my story, my research was already in hand!
It’s an amazing place, both visually and historically, so I’ll give you a little sneak peek at its history, even though you won’t be reading my scenes set there until next year . . .
Merton College, is one of the oldest colleges of Oxford University and was founded in 1264 by Walter de Merton, who served a Chancellor of England and then as Bishop of Rochester. Mob Quadrangle is the oldest courtyard at Oxford—and claims to be the oldest college courtyard anywhere (though Cambridge University disputes this!) It was formed with 20 Fellows, and undergraduates were admitted in the 1380s.
Sir Christopher Wren designed the screen and choir stalls for the Merton chapel, though only a few arches remain from the original design. Its organ is famous (I was lucky enough to hear it being played when I was there) and college’s choir is renowned—so it’s also known as a very musical college.
The Merton College Library is the oldest academic library that has been in continuous daily use, and is also one of the oldest libraries in England. Its treasures include a priceless collection of early printed books and over 300 medieval manuscripts. (photo of Merton Library by Tom Murphy VII, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Katharine of Aragon, Henry VIII’s first wife, stayed in Merton when she visited the shrine of St. Frideswide in Oxford to pray for a healthy pregnancy, and Elizabeth I and her court dined at the College in 1592. Queen Henrietta Maria lodged at Merton for a year during the Civil War—her quarters were named the Queen’s Room, which is still called that to this day.
Merton has an incredible list of luminaries who taught or studied there over the years . . . William Harvey, who ‘discovered” the pulmonary system, was Warden of the College . . . William Hartley, a Merton fellow, was the first member of Parliament to argue for the abolition of the slave trade in 1776 . . . JRR Tolkien was a Fellow and Professor of Literature . . . notable graduates include T. S. Eliot and Roger Bannister, who made athletic history by running the first sub-4 minute mile.
I’ll be talking a lot more about Merton College in the future, but for now I thought you might enjoy a little background in how story ideas come to life.
So, do you enjoy being taken to an actual historic place in fictional books, and have it come alive as part of an author's plot? Is it fun to learn about its history and get a flavor of its ambiance while you’re reading a story? Any particular favorite historical places that have captured your fancy as a great setting that became an actual "character" in a book? Please share!
Oh, I just love historical books, especially mysteries. I find Ellis Peters brings Shrewsbury alive for me and as a result of Brother Cadfael, I researched everything i could find (and still do) about the cathedral and the town. Another author inspired me to research and find all I can is Candace Robb who writes the Owen Archer series set in York. Both authors tend to make the locations an integral part of the story line. I just might have to add Merton College to my list and your book to my TBR list!
Oh, I just love historical books, especially mysteries. I find Ellis Peters brings Shrewsbury alive for me and as a result of Brother Cadfael, I researched everything i could find (and still do) about the cathedral and the town. Another author inspired me to research and find all I can is Candace Robb who writes the Owen Archer series set in York. Both authors tend to make the locations an integral part of the story line. I just might have to add Merton College to my list and your book to my TBR list!
Oh, I just love historical books, especially mysteries. I find Ellis Peters brings Shrewsbury alive for me and as a result of Brother Cadfael, I researched everything i could find (and still do) about the cathedral and the town. Another author inspired me to research and find all I can is Candace Robb who writes the Owen Archer series set in York. Both authors tend to make the locations an integral part of the story line. I just might have to add Merton College to my list and your book to my TBR list!
Oh, I just love historical books, especially mysteries. I find Ellis Peters brings Shrewsbury alive for me and as a result of Brother Cadfael, I researched everything i could find (and still do) about the cathedral and the town. Another author inspired me to research and find all I can is Candace Robb who writes the Owen Archer series set in York. Both authors tend to make the locations an integral part of the story line. I just might have to add Merton College to my list and your book to my TBR list!
Oh, I just love historical books, especially mysteries. I find Ellis Peters brings Shrewsbury alive for me and as a result of Brother Cadfael, I researched everything i could find (and still do) about the cathedral and the town. Another author inspired me to research and find all I can is Candace Robb who writes the Owen Archer series set in York. Both authors tend to make the locations an integral part of the story line. I just might have to add Merton College to my list and your book to my TBR list!
I meant to say that I have a dear friend who lives in England and travelled to both Shrewsbury and York and sent me the most wonderful literature picked up in the two locations that helped me learn more about the history of them. It is difficult when you live across the world and know you will not get there to see them in person so books and lovely friends certainly help!
I meant to say that I have a dear friend who lives in England and travelled to both Shrewsbury and York and sent me the most wonderful literature picked up in the two locations that helped me learn more about the history of them. It is difficult when you live across the world and know you will not get there to see them in person so books and lovely friends certainly help!
I meant to say that I have a dear friend who lives in England and travelled to both Shrewsbury and York and sent me the most wonderful literature picked up in the two locations that helped me learn more about the history of them. It is difficult when you live across the world and know you will not get there to see them in person so books and lovely friends certainly help!
I meant to say that I have a dear friend who lives in England and travelled to both Shrewsbury and York and sent me the most wonderful literature picked up in the two locations that helped me learn more about the history of them. It is difficult when you live across the world and know you will not get there to see them in person so books and lovely friends certainly help!
I meant to say that I have a dear friend who lives in England and travelled to both Shrewsbury and York and sent me the most wonderful literature picked up in the two locations that helped me learn more about the history of them. It is difficult when you live across the world and know you will not get there to see them in person so books and lovely friends certainly help!
I love reading about actual places/history in books. I’ll stop reading for a bit to go and search online for something that was in the book to find out more about it. I even will get out google maps and zoom into places and find streets (when they actually exist). I don’t know why, but I think it’s fun and it kind of brings the story home.
I love reading about actual places/history in books. I’ll stop reading for a bit to go and search online for something that was in the book to find out more about it. I even will get out google maps and zoom into places and find streets (when they actually exist). I don’t know why, but I think it’s fun and it kind of brings the story home.
I love reading about actual places/history in books. I’ll stop reading for a bit to go and search online for something that was in the book to find out more about it. I even will get out google maps and zoom into places and find streets (when they actually exist). I don’t know why, but I think it’s fun and it kind of brings the story home.
I love reading about actual places/history in books. I’ll stop reading for a bit to go and search online for something that was in the book to find out more about it. I even will get out google maps and zoom into places and find streets (when they actually exist). I don’t know why, but I think it’s fun and it kind of brings the story home.
I love reading about actual places/history in books. I’ll stop reading for a bit to go and search online for something that was in the book to find out more about it. I even will get out google maps and zoom into places and find streets (when they actually exist). I don’t know why, but I think it’s fun and it kind of brings the story home.
Merton College sounds fascinating, Andrea; thank you for the introduction!
I do enjoy reading about actual sites in my fiction, historical and contemporary. It’s fun to see what authors choose to share. If it’s something contemporary, it can be neat to see what they get right or wrong.
Merton College sounds fascinating, Andrea; thank you for the introduction!
I do enjoy reading about actual sites in my fiction, historical and contemporary. It’s fun to see what authors choose to share. If it’s something contemporary, it can be neat to see what they get right or wrong.
Merton College sounds fascinating, Andrea; thank you for the introduction!
I do enjoy reading about actual sites in my fiction, historical and contemporary. It’s fun to see what authors choose to share. If it’s something contemporary, it can be neat to see what they get right or wrong.
Merton College sounds fascinating, Andrea; thank you for the introduction!
I do enjoy reading about actual sites in my fiction, historical and contemporary. It’s fun to see what authors choose to share. If it’s something contemporary, it can be neat to see what they get right or wrong.
Merton College sounds fascinating, Andrea; thank you for the introduction!
I do enjoy reading about actual sites in my fiction, historical and contemporary. It’s fun to see what authors choose to share. If it’s something contemporary, it can be neat to see what they get right or wrong.
Those are wonderful examples, Donna. Cathedral towns, like university towns, have so much ambiance.
I hope you will enjoy the story featuring Merton College. Oxford was SUCH a wonderful place in which to place some of the action of my 2022 book, MURDER AT THE SERPENTINE.
Those are wonderful examples, Donna. Cathedral towns, like university towns, have so much ambiance.
I hope you will enjoy the story featuring Merton College. Oxford was SUCH a wonderful place in which to place some of the action of my 2022 book, MURDER AT THE SERPENTINE.
Those are wonderful examples, Donna. Cathedral towns, like university towns, have so much ambiance.
I hope you will enjoy the story featuring Merton College. Oxford was SUCH a wonderful place in which to place some of the action of my 2022 book, MURDER AT THE SERPENTINE.
Those are wonderful examples, Donna. Cathedral towns, like university towns, have so much ambiance.
I hope you will enjoy the story featuring Merton College. Oxford was SUCH a wonderful place in which to place some of the action of my 2022 book, MURDER AT THE SERPENTINE.
Those are wonderful examples, Donna. Cathedral towns, like university towns, have so much ambiance.
I hope you will enjoy the story featuring Merton College. Oxford was SUCH a wonderful place in which to place some of the action of my 2022 book, MURDER AT THE SERPENTINE.
Absolutely! And the online info has become so good, too. Merton College has a wonderful interactive layout of it grounds, so one can poke around and see such interesting stuff. Though of course, it was fabulous to be able to be there in person and explore.
Absolutely! And the online info has become so good, too. Merton College has a wonderful interactive layout of it grounds, so one can poke around and see such interesting stuff. Though of course, it was fabulous to be able to be there in person and explore.
Absolutely! And the online info has become so good, too. Merton College has a wonderful interactive layout of it grounds, so one can poke around and see such interesting stuff. Though of course, it was fabulous to be able to be there in person and explore.
Absolutely! And the online info has become so good, too. Merton College has a wonderful interactive layout of it grounds, so one can poke around and see such interesting stuff. Though of course, it was fabulous to be able to be there in person and explore.
Absolutely! And the online info has become so good, too. Merton College has a wonderful interactive layout of it grounds, so one can poke around and see such interesting stuff. Though of course, it was fabulous to be able to be there in person and explore.
Glad you enjoy it, Misti. I feel the same way. A setting can really become a character in the book!
Glad you enjoy it, Misti. I feel the same way. A setting can really become a character in the book!
Glad you enjoy it, Misti. I feel the same way. A setting can really become a character in the book!
Glad you enjoy it, Misti. I feel the same way. A setting can really become a character in the book!
Glad you enjoy it, Misti. I feel the same way. A setting can really become a character in the book!
It’s an amazing place, Kareni. Some of the stonework really does look ancient—the 1200s! I got shivers down my spine standing there and thinking about all the things they have witnessed.
It’s an amazing place, Kareni. Some of the stonework really does look ancient—the 1200s! I got shivers down my spine standing there and thinking about all the things they have witnessed.
It’s an amazing place, Kareni. Some of the stonework really does look ancient—the 1200s! I got shivers down my spine standing there and thinking about all the things they have witnessed.
It’s an amazing place, Kareni. Some of the stonework really does look ancient—the 1200s! I got shivers down my spine standing there and thinking about all the things they have witnessed.
It’s an amazing place, Kareni. Some of the stonework really does look ancient—the 1200s! I got shivers down my spine standing there and thinking about all the things they have witnessed.
Yes, I adore becoming absorbed in the setting and history of the place where the action takes place. Years ago, the historical mystery series written by Miriam Grace Monfredo had me fascinated. Her description of Seneca Falls, New York during the beginning of the American Women’s Suffrage Movement, and the Underground Railroad, and Abolition Movement had me fascinated. I was warned that the modern day Seneca Falls is nothing like the 19th Century town. I went, found the historic sites, but the visual was nothing like I imagined.
Yes, I adore becoming absorbed in the setting and history of the place where the action takes place. Years ago, the historical mystery series written by Miriam Grace Monfredo had me fascinated. Her description of Seneca Falls, New York during the beginning of the American Women’s Suffrage Movement, and the Underground Railroad, and Abolition Movement had me fascinated. I was warned that the modern day Seneca Falls is nothing like the 19th Century town. I went, found the historic sites, but the visual was nothing like I imagined.
Yes, I adore becoming absorbed in the setting and history of the place where the action takes place. Years ago, the historical mystery series written by Miriam Grace Monfredo had me fascinated. Her description of Seneca Falls, New York during the beginning of the American Women’s Suffrage Movement, and the Underground Railroad, and Abolition Movement had me fascinated. I was warned that the modern day Seneca Falls is nothing like the 19th Century town. I went, found the historic sites, but the visual was nothing like I imagined.
Yes, I adore becoming absorbed in the setting and history of the place where the action takes place. Years ago, the historical mystery series written by Miriam Grace Monfredo had me fascinated. Her description of Seneca Falls, New York during the beginning of the American Women’s Suffrage Movement, and the Underground Railroad, and Abolition Movement had me fascinated. I was warned that the modern day Seneca Falls is nothing like the 19th Century town. I went, found the historic sites, but the visual was nothing like I imagined.
Yes, I adore becoming absorbed in the setting and history of the place where the action takes place. Years ago, the historical mystery series written by Miriam Grace Monfredo had me fascinated. Her description of Seneca Falls, New York during the beginning of the American Women’s Suffrage Movement, and the Underground Railroad, and Abolition Movement had me fascinated. I was warned that the modern day Seneca Falls is nothing like the 19th Century town. I went, found the historic sites, but the visual was nothing like I imagined.
Probably of little interest to anyone but me, BUT T. S. Eliot was born in my home town. I knew he belonged to Oxford, but it’s exciting to know about his college. (Does anyone get the idea I’m proud of my home town?)
Probably of little interest to anyone but me, BUT T. S. Eliot was born in my home town. I knew he belonged to Oxford, but it’s exciting to know about his college. (Does anyone get the idea I’m proud of my home town?)
Probably of little interest to anyone but me, BUT T. S. Eliot was born in my home town. I knew he belonged to Oxford, but it’s exciting to know about his college. (Does anyone get the idea I’m proud of my home town?)
Probably of little interest to anyone but me, BUT T. S. Eliot was born in my home town. I knew he belonged to Oxford, but it’s exciting to know about his college. (Does anyone get the idea I’m proud of my home town?)
Probably of little interest to anyone but me, BUT T. S. Eliot was born in my home town. I knew he belonged to Oxford, but it’s exciting to know about his college. (Does anyone get the idea I’m proud of my home town?)
That’s fascinating, Pamela. I wonder whether the author took artistic liberty in creating the 19th century town.
Then again, I can see that a smaller city or town could change a lot over a century. (And America does tend to alter a lot more than other places in the world.)
That’s fascinating, Pamela. I wonder whether the author took artistic liberty in creating the 19th century town.
Then again, I can see that a smaller city or town could change a lot over a century. (And America does tend to alter a lot more than other places in the world.)
That’s fascinating, Pamela. I wonder whether the author took artistic liberty in creating the 19th century town.
Then again, I can see that a smaller city or town could change a lot over a century. (And America does tend to alter a lot more than other places in the world.)
That’s fascinating, Pamela. I wonder whether the author took artistic liberty in creating the 19th century town.
Then again, I can see that a smaller city or town could change a lot over a century. (And America does tend to alter a lot more than other places in the world.)
That’s fascinating, Pamela. I wonder whether the author took artistic liberty in creating the 19th century town.
Then again, I can see that a smaller city or town could change a lot over a century. (And America does tend to alter a lot more than other places in the world.)
That’s wonderful, Sue! And something about which to be very proud!
That’s wonderful, Sue! And something about which to be very proud!
That’s wonderful, Sue! And something about which to be very proud!
That’s wonderful, Sue! And something about which to be very proud!
That’s wonderful, Sue! And something about which to be very proud!
Fascinating, Andrea. You’re so lucky to be able to walk those historical paths and incorporate them into your work. As for myself, one place not far from where I live is Colonial Williamsburg (Virginia, USA), which is essentially a living history museum. In addition to restored pubs and c. 18th century craft-making demonstrations, part of the landscape that can be explored is the Governor’s Mansion. When I was there with family, gazing at the various furnishings – I had a revelation: the chairs in the parlor (?) were almost exactly the ones in my own living room. I don’t know the name for them, but they are upholstered leather chairs and the surface is not a square,but more of a diamond. And in the Governor’s mansion, the ends of the arms included candle holders. Who knew? My own chairs do not have a place for candles, but they always make me think of Colonial Williamsburg, and how others lived so long ago.
Fascinating, Andrea. You’re so lucky to be able to walk those historical paths and incorporate them into your work. As for myself, one place not far from where I live is Colonial Williamsburg (Virginia, USA), which is essentially a living history museum. In addition to restored pubs and c. 18th century craft-making demonstrations, part of the landscape that can be explored is the Governor’s Mansion. When I was there with family, gazing at the various furnishings – I had a revelation: the chairs in the parlor (?) were almost exactly the ones in my own living room. I don’t know the name for them, but they are upholstered leather chairs and the surface is not a square,but more of a diamond. And in the Governor’s mansion, the ends of the arms included candle holders. Who knew? My own chairs do not have a place for candles, but they always make me think of Colonial Williamsburg, and how others lived so long ago.
Fascinating, Andrea. You’re so lucky to be able to walk those historical paths and incorporate them into your work. As for myself, one place not far from where I live is Colonial Williamsburg (Virginia, USA), which is essentially a living history museum. In addition to restored pubs and c. 18th century craft-making demonstrations, part of the landscape that can be explored is the Governor’s Mansion. When I was there with family, gazing at the various furnishings – I had a revelation: the chairs in the parlor (?) were almost exactly the ones in my own living room. I don’t know the name for them, but they are upholstered leather chairs and the surface is not a square,but more of a diamond. And in the Governor’s mansion, the ends of the arms included candle holders. Who knew? My own chairs do not have a place for candles, but they always make me think of Colonial Williamsburg, and how others lived so long ago.
Fascinating, Andrea. You’re so lucky to be able to walk those historical paths and incorporate them into your work. As for myself, one place not far from where I live is Colonial Williamsburg (Virginia, USA), which is essentially a living history museum. In addition to restored pubs and c. 18th century craft-making demonstrations, part of the landscape that can be explored is the Governor’s Mansion. When I was there with family, gazing at the various furnishings – I had a revelation: the chairs in the parlor (?) were almost exactly the ones in my own living room. I don’t know the name for them, but they are upholstered leather chairs and the surface is not a square,but more of a diamond. And in the Governor’s mansion, the ends of the arms included candle holders. Who knew? My own chairs do not have a place for candles, but they always make me think of Colonial Williamsburg, and how others lived so long ago.
Fascinating, Andrea. You’re so lucky to be able to walk those historical paths and incorporate them into your work. As for myself, one place not far from where I live is Colonial Williamsburg (Virginia, USA), which is essentially a living history museum. In addition to restored pubs and c. 18th century craft-making demonstrations, part of the landscape that can be explored is the Governor’s Mansion. When I was there with family, gazing at the various furnishings – I had a revelation: the chairs in the parlor (?) were almost exactly the ones in my own living room. I don’t know the name for them, but they are upholstered leather chairs and the surface is not a square,but more of a diamond. And in the Governor’s mansion, the ends of the arms included candle holders. Who knew? My own chairs do not have a place for candles, but they always make me think of Colonial Williamsburg, and how others lived so long ago.
Wonderful post, Andrea – thank you! And congrats on hitting SEND! Growing up in a very small town, reading historical fiction was my introduction to a larger world, as well as the birthing of a true Anglophile. And while not historical fiction, your description of Merton brought to mind Dorothy L. Sayers’ Gaudy Night. Harriet Vane’s college at Oxford was a fictional creation, but the description of Oxford and environs created the itinerary for my first trip to the “dreaming spires”. Reading Donna Leon’s Venetian mysteries led me to study the incredibly fascinating history of Venice. When we first visited there, it was with a small group tour organized by the Italian company for which my husband works. As we walked along the Riva Degli Schiavoni, I was pointing out various sites with historic value to my husband – all of a sudden our terrific tour guide turned to me and said, “Now all you need to do is learn to speak Venetian and you will have a new home!” Alas, that hasn’t happened but I continue to love historical fiction, and just started re-reading Patricia Finney’s Elizabethan trilogy (at least until Anne’s “The Scoundrel’s Daughter” is released! 😉)
Wonderful post, Andrea – thank you! And congrats on hitting SEND! Growing up in a very small town, reading historical fiction was my introduction to a larger world, as well as the birthing of a true Anglophile. And while not historical fiction, your description of Merton brought to mind Dorothy L. Sayers’ Gaudy Night. Harriet Vane’s college at Oxford was a fictional creation, but the description of Oxford and environs created the itinerary for my first trip to the “dreaming spires”. Reading Donna Leon’s Venetian mysteries led me to study the incredibly fascinating history of Venice. When we first visited there, it was with a small group tour organized by the Italian company for which my husband works. As we walked along the Riva Degli Schiavoni, I was pointing out various sites with historic value to my husband – all of a sudden our terrific tour guide turned to me and said, “Now all you need to do is learn to speak Venetian and you will have a new home!” Alas, that hasn’t happened but I continue to love historical fiction, and just started re-reading Patricia Finney’s Elizabethan trilogy (at least until Anne’s “The Scoundrel’s Daughter” is released! 😉)
Wonderful post, Andrea – thank you! And congrats on hitting SEND! Growing up in a very small town, reading historical fiction was my introduction to a larger world, as well as the birthing of a true Anglophile. And while not historical fiction, your description of Merton brought to mind Dorothy L. Sayers’ Gaudy Night. Harriet Vane’s college at Oxford was a fictional creation, but the description of Oxford and environs created the itinerary for my first trip to the “dreaming spires”. Reading Donna Leon’s Venetian mysteries led me to study the incredibly fascinating history of Venice. When we first visited there, it was with a small group tour organized by the Italian company for which my husband works. As we walked along the Riva Degli Schiavoni, I was pointing out various sites with historic value to my husband – all of a sudden our terrific tour guide turned to me and said, “Now all you need to do is learn to speak Venetian and you will have a new home!” Alas, that hasn’t happened but I continue to love historical fiction, and just started re-reading Patricia Finney’s Elizabethan trilogy (at least until Anne’s “The Scoundrel’s Daughter” is released! 😉)
Wonderful post, Andrea – thank you! And congrats on hitting SEND! Growing up in a very small town, reading historical fiction was my introduction to a larger world, as well as the birthing of a true Anglophile. And while not historical fiction, your description of Merton brought to mind Dorothy L. Sayers’ Gaudy Night. Harriet Vane’s college at Oxford was a fictional creation, but the description of Oxford and environs created the itinerary for my first trip to the “dreaming spires”. Reading Donna Leon’s Venetian mysteries led me to study the incredibly fascinating history of Venice. When we first visited there, it was with a small group tour organized by the Italian company for which my husband works. As we walked along the Riva Degli Schiavoni, I was pointing out various sites with historic value to my husband – all of a sudden our terrific tour guide turned to me and said, “Now all you need to do is learn to speak Venetian and you will have a new home!” Alas, that hasn’t happened but I continue to love historical fiction, and just started re-reading Patricia Finney’s Elizabethan trilogy (at least until Anne’s “The Scoundrel’s Daughter” is released! 😉)
Wonderful post, Andrea – thank you! And congrats on hitting SEND! Growing up in a very small town, reading historical fiction was my introduction to a larger world, as well as the birthing of a true Anglophile. And while not historical fiction, your description of Merton brought to mind Dorothy L. Sayers’ Gaudy Night. Harriet Vane’s college at Oxford was a fictional creation, but the description of Oxford and environs created the itinerary for my first trip to the “dreaming spires”. Reading Donna Leon’s Venetian mysteries led me to study the incredibly fascinating history of Venice. When we first visited there, it was with a small group tour organized by the Italian company for which my husband works. As we walked along the Riva Degli Schiavoni, I was pointing out various sites with historic value to my husband – all of a sudden our terrific tour guide turned to me and said, “Now all you need to do is learn to speak Venetian and you will have a new home!” Alas, that hasn’t happened but I continue to love historical fiction, and just started re-reading Patricia Finney’s Elizabethan trilogy (at least until Anne’s “The Scoundrel’s Daughter” is released! 😉)
Will be looking forward to that book Andrea. I’ve been lucky enough to get an early copy from NetGalley of your September release. (I couldn’t wait :):) ).
Will be looking forward to that book Andrea. I’ve been lucky enough to get an early copy from NetGalley of your September release. (I couldn’t wait :):) ).
Will be looking forward to that book Andrea. I’ve been lucky enough to get an early copy from NetGalley of your September release. (I couldn’t wait :):) ).
Will be looking forward to that book Andrea. I’ve been lucky enough to get an early copy from NetGalley of your September release. (I couldn’t wait :):) ).
Will be looking forward to that book Andrea. I’ve been lucky enough to get an early copy from NetGalley of your September release. (I couldn’t wait :):) ).
Terrific post, and I love your pictures. I have Scottish ancestors. So, naturally Scottish places always get my interest.
I am fascinated with the difference between the Highlands and the rest of Scotland. I reckon it is like the differences between different areas of this country.(USA) Unfortunately, no one here has the courage to wear kilts to show their individuality.
I particularly liked the list of people of note from Merton College. Thanks for the post.
Hope everyone is well and happy and safe.
Terrific post, and I love your pictures. I have Scottish ancestors. So, naturally Scottish places always get my interest.
I am fascinated with the difference between the Highlands and the rest of Scotland. I reckon it is like the differences between different areas of this country.(USA) Unfortunately, no one here has the courage to wear kilts to show their individuality.
I particularly liked the list of people of note from Merton College. Thanks for the post.
Hope everyone is well and happy and safe.
Terrific post, and I love your pictures. I have Scottish ancestors. So, naturally Scottish places always get my interest.
I am fascinated with the difference between the Highlands and the rest of Scotland. I reckon it is like the differences between different areas of this country.(USA) Unfortunately, no one here has the courage to wear kilts to show their individuality.
I particularly liked the list of people of note from Merton College. Thanks for the post.
Hope everyone is well and happy and safe.
Terrific post, and I love your pictures. I have Scottish ancestors. So, naturally Scottish places always get my interest.
I am fascinated with the difference between the Highlands and the rest of Scotland. I reckon it is like the differences between different areas of this country.(USA) Unfortunately, no one here has the courage to wear kilts to show their individuality.
I particularly liked the list of people of note from Merton College. Thanks for the post.
Hope everyone is well and happy and safe.
Terrific post, and I love your pictures. I have Scottish ancestors. So, naturally Scottish places always get my interest.
I am fascinated with the difference between the Highlands and the rest of Scotland. I reckon it is like the differences between different areas of this country.(USA) Unfortunately, no one here has the courage to wear kilts to show their individuality.
I particularly liked the list of people of note from Merton College. Thanks for the post.
Hope everyone is well and happy and safe.
What a wonderful story, Binnie. Those ah-ha moments are so fun, and yes, they really do mae history come alive. I’m sure your chairs feel even more special!
What a wonderful story, Binnie. Those ah-ha moments are so fun, and yes, they really do mae history come alive. I’m sure your chairs feel even more special!
What a wonderful story, Binnie. Those ah-ha moments are so fun, and yes, they really do mae history come alive. I’m sure your chairs feel even more special!
What a wonderful story, Binnie. Those ah-ha moments are so fun, and yes, they really do mae history come alive. I’m sure your chairs feel even more special!
What a wonderful story, Binnie. Those ah-ha moments are so fun, and yes, they really do mae history come alive. I’m sure your chairs feel even more special!
Oh, Constance, I loved Gaudy Night, too, and wa one of the books that made me yearn to visit Oxford. I really do love the town, and I think it’s partly because books made it seem so incredibly special.
And fluttery sigh on Donna Leon and Venice. Another evocative series! (Yo’re in for a treat with Anne’s new book!)
Oh, Constance, I loved Gaudy Night, too, and wa one of the books that made me yearn to visit Oxford. I really do love the town, and I think it’s partly because books made it seem so incredibly special.
And fluttery sigh on Donna Leon and Venice. Another evocative series! (Yo’re in for a treat with Anne’s new book!)
Oh, Constance, I loved Gaudy Night, too, and wa one of the books that made me yearn to visit Oxford. I really do love the town, and I think it’s partly because books made it seem so incredibly special.
And fluttery sigh on Donna Leon and Venice. Another evocative series! (Yo’re in for a treat with Anne’s new book!)
Oh, Constance, I loved Gaudy Night, too, and wa one of the books that made me yearn to visit Oxford. I really do love the town, and I think it’s partly because books made it seem so incredibly special.
And fluttery sigh on Donna Leon and Venice. Another evocative series! (Yo’re in for a treat with Anne’s new book!)
Oh, Constance, I loved Gaudy Night, too, and wa one of the books that made me yearn to visit Oxford. I really do love the town, and I think it’s partly because books made it seem so incredibly special.
And fluttery sigh on Donna Leon and Venice. Another evocative series! (Yo’re in for a treat with Anne’s new book!)
Wonderful! I hope you enjoy it!
Wonderful! I hope you enjoy it!
Wonderful! I hope you enjoy it!
Wonderful! I hope you enjoy it!
Wonderful! I hope you enjoy it!
So glad you enjoyed it, Annette!
So glad you enjoyed it, Annette!
So glad you enjoyed it, Annette!
So glad you enjoyed it, Annette!
So glad you enjoyed it, Annette!
Have read the first three in your series and have the next one on hold at the library. I love historical mysteries and yours are great! The settings play a really important role for me so my preference is always a real place that I can google and maybe visit one day. As I was born in England I am partial to cities like London and Oxford – but I enjoy those set in other European or American cities, too. I’m reading a great series set in New York called The Gilded Age Mysteries by Rosemary Simpson which are very well done and I’m learning a lot about New York! Jennifer Ashley’s Below Stairs series presents a different view on the London ton from the point of view of the heroine who is the cook. Enjoyed the mention of Gaudy Night as Dorothy Sayers is one of my faves.
Loved your post today – thanks!
Have read the first three in your series and have the next one on hold at the library. I love historical mysteries and yours are great! The settings play a really important role for me so my preference is always a real place that I can google and maybe visit one day. As I was born in England I am partial to cities like London and Oxford – but I enjoy those set in other European or American cities, too. I’m reading a great series set in New York called The Gilded Age Mysteries by Rosemary Simpson which are very well done and I’m learning a lot about New York! Jennifer Ashley’s Below Stairs series presents a different view on the London ton from the point of view of the heroine who is the cook. Enjoyed the mention of Gaudy Night as Dorothy Sayers is one of my faves.
Loved your post today – thanks!
Have read the first three in your series and have the next one on hold at the library. I love historical mysteries and yours are great! The settings play a really important role for me so my preference is always a real place that I can google and maybe visit one day. As I was born in England I am partial to cities like London and Oxford – but I enjoy those set in other European or American cities, too. I’m reading a great series set in New York called The Gilded Age Mysteries by Rosemary Simpson which are very well done and I’m learning a lot about New York! Jennifer Ashley’s Below Stairs series presents a different view on the London ton from the point of view of the heroine who is the cook. Enjoyed the mention of Gaudy Night as Dorothy Sayers is one of my faves.
Loved your post today – thanks!
Have read the first three in your series and have the next one on hold at the library. I love historical mysteries and yours are great! The settings play a really important role for me so my preference is always a real place that I can google and maybe visit one day. As I was born in England I am partial to cities like London and Oxford – but I enjoy those set in other European or American cities, too. I’m reading a great series set in New York called The Gilded Age Mysteries by Rosemary Simpson which are very well done and I’m learning a lot about New York! Jennifer Ashley’s Below Stairs series presents a different view on the London ton from the point of view of the heroine who is the cook. Enjoyed the mention of Gaudy Night as Dorothy Sayers is one of my faves.
Loved your post today – thanks!
Have read the first three in your series and have the next one on hold at the library. I love historical mysteries and yours are great! The settings play a really important role for me so my preference is always a real place that I can google and maybe visit one day. As I was born in England I am partial to cities like London and Oxford – but I enjoy those set in other European or American cities, too. I’m reading a great series set in New York called The Gilded Age Mysteries by Rosemary Simpson which are very well done and I’m learning a lot about New York! Jennifer Ashley’s Below Stairs series presents a different view on the London ton from the point of view of the heroine who is the cook. Enjoyed the mention of Gaudy Night as Dorothy Sayers is one of my faves.
Loved your post today – thanks!
Andrea, what a wonderful portrait of Merton College! I actually lived in Oxford for two years and became acquainted with several of the colleges (I have a particular fondness for New College–which isn’t really very new. *G*) But I missed Merton College. Clearly it’s time I revisited Oxford!
Andrea, what a wonderful portrait of Merton College! I actually lived in Oxford for two years and became acquainted with several of the colleges (I have a particular fondness for New College–which isn’t really very new. *G*) But I missed Merton College. Clearly it’s time I revisited Oxford!
Andrea, what a wonderful portrait of Merton College! I actually lived in Oxford for two years and became acquainted with several of the colleges (I have a particular fondness for New College–which isn’t really very new. *G*) But I missed Merton College. Clearly it’s time I revisited Oxford!
Andrea, what a wonderful portrait of Merton College! I actually lived in Oxford for two years and became acquainted with several of the colleges (I have a particular fondness for New College–which isn’t really very new. *G*) But I missed Merton College. Clearly it’s time I revisited Oxford!
Andrea, what a wonderful portrait of Merton College! I actually lived in Oxford for two years and became acquainted with several of the colleges (I have a particular fondness for New College–which isn’t really very new. *G*) But I missed Merton College. Clearly it’s time I revisited Oxford!
Thank you so much for the kind words, Janet! I’m so glad to hear you’re enjoying my mysteries!
And so glad you enjoy being immersed in a setting, which I really enjoy as a reader, too. The Simpson books are very good, and create a great ambiance of old New York.
Thank you so much for the kind words, Janet! I’m so glad to hear you’re enjoying my mysteries!
And so glad you enjoy being immersed in a setting, which I really enjoy as a reader, too. The Simpson books are very good, and create a great ambiance of old New York.
Thank you so much for the kind words, Janet! I’m so glad to hear you’re enjoying my mysteries!
And so glad you enjoy being immersed in a setting, which I really enjoy as a reader, too. The Simpson books are very good, and create a great ambiance of old New York.
Thank you so much for the kind words, Janet! I’m so glad to hear you’re enjoying my mysteries!
And so glad you enjoy being immersed in a setting, which I really enjoy as a reader, too. The Simpson books are very good, and create a great ambiance of old New York.
Thank you so much for the kind words, Janet! I’m so glad to hear you’re enjoying my mysteries!
And so glad you enjoy being immersed in a setting, which I really enjoy as a reader, too. The Simpson books are very good, and create a great ambiance of old New York.
Thanks, Mary Jo! LOL on “New” College, which gives us Yanks a real chuckle.
How lucky to have lived in Oxford for two years! I know I would never get tired of wandering through the winding streets and peering into the ancient courtyards and thinking about all they have seen.The history just sort-of takes one’s breath away. At least it does mine. Merton is absolutely wonderful—you definitely have to go back and explore it!
Thanks, Mary Jo! LOL on “New” College, which gives us Yanks a real chuckle.
How lucky to have lived in Oxford for two years! I know I would never get tired of wandering through the winding streets and peering into the ancient courtyards and thinking about all they have seen.The history just sort-of takes one’s breath away. At least it does mine. Merton is absolutely wonderful—you definitely have to go back and explore it!
Thanks, Mary Jo! LOL on “New” College, which gives us Yanks a real chuckle.
How lucky to have lived in Oxford for two years! I know I would never get tired of wandering through the winding streets and peering into the ancient courtyards and thinking about all they have seen.The history just sort-of takes one’s breath away. At least it does mine. Merton is absolutely wonderful—you definitely have to go back and explore it!
Thanks, Mary Jo! LOL on “New” College, which gives us Yanks a real chuckle.
How lucky to have lived in Oxford for two years! I know I would never get tired of wandering through the winding streets and peering into the ancient courtyards and thinking about all they have seen.The history just sort-of takes one’s breath away. At least it does mine. Merton is absolutely wonderful—you definitely have to go back and explore it!
Thanks, Mary Jo! LOL on “New” College, which gives us Yanks a real chuckle.
How lucky to have lived in Oxford for two years! I know I would never get tired of wandering through the winding streets and peering into the ancient courtyards and thinking about all they have seen.The history just sort-of takes one’s breath away. At least it does mine. Merton is absolutely wonderful—you definitely have to go back and explore it!