Cara/Andrea here,
To celebrate the launch of her new series (the first book hits the shelves at the end of the month) my good friend Christina Brooke is joining us today to talk about two subjects near and dear of all of our hearts—history AND romance.
HEIRESS IN LOVE is the first book in the Ministry of Marriage saga, On her website, Christina describes the MOM as . . "the nickname of a cabal in which the leaders of the most prominent families in Britain negotiate, facilitate and approve dynastic marriages. Each family represented in the organization has a rich history full of rivalries, allegiances, legends and secrets. Their fortunes have risen and fallen for hundreds of years depending on their success in war, their religious leanings, or which heir to the throne they support. . . " Sounds delicious, doesn't it!
And now, speaking of marriages, I shall turn the keyboard over to Christina! (I couldn't resist added a lovely pic below of her storyboard for visualizing her characters.)
It’s such a pleasure to be here with the Word Wenches today. Thank you to my lovely friend, Cara Elliott and the rest of the Wenches for inviting me along!
Like so many of you, I love history and I enjoy researching the historical romance novels I write. I’d be the first to admit, however, that some aspects of the past are not at all romantic! That’s why I’m always enchanted to stumble over tales of ‘true romance’ in the course of my research. Today, I have three thoroughly romantic true stories to relate.
The first is of a very unconventional lady, Jane Digby. This woman has fascinated me since I read her biography years ago. Many have written about her, even during her remarkable lifetime, yet she remains relatively obscure.
Jane Digby was the exquisitely beautiful granddaughter of Coke of Norfolk, a man who repeatedly refused a peerage because he preferred his independence to kowtowing to any monarch. Jane was lively, intelligent and a trifle spoiled as a child. She was given a boy’s education (always a dangerous thing!) and later groomed for her debut by a governess. When presented at the age of sixteen she was dubbed ‘Light of Day’ and later ‘Aurora’ by her many admirers. Before long, Jane fell in love with—or perhaps, more accurately, became infatuated with—and married Lord Ellenborough, who was twice her age.
The marriage was not a success and it seems our Jane fell in and out of love (or infatuation) at an alarming rate. She was an intimate of Countess Lieven and Princess Esterhazy but unlike her contemporaries among the ton, she seemed incapable of maintaining discretion over her affaires. Jane eventually ran off with a German prince before her husband divorced her, and she later enjoyed various liaisons throughout the courts of Europe. Her lovers included a Greek count, the King of Bavaria and an Albanian chieftan. Some might call her promiscuous, and perhaps she was. However, I see Jane as an intelligent, passionate woman who was desperately seeking the love of a lifetime and would not settle for anything less.
Jane wound up in Syria at the age of fifty, but her great love story was yet to begin. Sheikh Medjuel el Mezrab, the Arab nobleman who escorted Jane’s caravan to the ruined city of Palmyra, fell in love with her. He was young enough to be her son, but their love endured until the end of her life. Across the foot of the English-style gravestone where Jane was buried, Medjuel added a large block of pink desert limestone brought from Palmyra, where Jane spent the happiest days of her life. On it, he engraved in Arabic with his own hands: “Madame Digby el Mezrab”. He never remarried.
The second is a poignant story of love unrequited that might be familiar to those of you who are addicted (as I am) to the Antiques Roadshow. A young gentleman named Humphrey Prideaux made the Grand Tour and in 1740, had his portrait taken by the celebrated eighteenth century Italian artist, Rosalba Carriera. This pastel hangs in the morning room at Prideaux Place in Cornwall, so if you’re ever in the neighborhood, stop in and say hello to Humphrey.
What Humphrey never knew was that while capturing his likeness, the artist fell in love with him and wrote him a passionate letter, which she secreted behind the portrait. It wasn’t until the pastel was cleaned in 1914 that the letter was discovered. This story illustrates one of the many aspects I love about writing historical romance—that love so often remained unspoken due to barriers that seem easily surmountable to modern people.
And lastly, a romance with a happy ending. This charming tale has inspired many a romance novel, I believe! The story of the arranged marriage between Lady Sarah Cadogan and Lord March, later the second Duke of Richmond.*
The first Duke of Richmond was an inveterate gambler and while in The Hague, he won an enormous sum (five thousand pounds, I believe) from Lord Cadogan. Lord Cadogan couldn’t afford to redeem the debt but he had two daughters who stood to inherit a fortune from their mother, a Dutch heiress. The fond papas agreed that the debt would be canceled if Lady Sarah Cadogan’s hand in marriage was given to the duke’s eldest son, Lord March.
Eighteen-year-old Lord March was called back from college and a bewildered Lady Sarah Cadogan (aged thirteen) was brought from her nursery for the ceremony. Lord March is said to have exclaimed: “Surely you are not going to marry me to that dowdy!” The ceremony was performed, however, and March immediately went off with his tutor on the Grand Tour.
Three years later, March returned to London. Instead of seeking out his ‘dowdy’ wife, he went directly to the opera, where he was staggered by the sight of a most beautiful lady. He turned to the person beside him to ask the name of this exquisite creature. He was told he must be a stranger to London, because it was the town’s reigning Toast, Lady March! Lord March lost no time in introducing himself to his wife. One hopes she punished him a little for his rudeness on their wedding day before she forgave him! Whatever the case, the couple lived together affectionately for the rest of their lives. In fact, when the Duke of Richmond (as March became) passed away 38 years later, Lady Sarah died of shock and grief soon afterward.
I love marriage of convenience stories, which is why I’m writing an entire series of them. My Ministry of Marriage series kicks off on June 28 with HEIRESS IN LOVE. In this story, a very prim widow must marry a rake to restore a fractured estate and keep the little boy she loves. Publishers Weekly gave HEIRESS IN LOVE a starred review, saying “Each scene is more passionate and sensual than the last.” You can read more about HEIRESS IN LOVE on my website: www.christina-brooke.com.
What about you? Do you like marriage of convenience stories, and if so, what are your favorites? Would you like to share a tale of ‘true romance’? Two lucky readers will each receive a signed copy of HEIRESS IN LOVE!
*This story is told by Sir William Napier in The Life of Charles James Napier. Additional detail may be found in Lady Russell’s The Rose Goddess and other Sketches of Mystery and Romance.
I do like marriage of convenience stories, but my mind is drawing a blank as to a favorite. Ah, well, it is pretty early…
I do like marriage of convenience stories, but my mind is drawing a blank as to a favorite. Ah, well, it is pretty early…
I do like marriage of convenience stories, but my mind is drawing a blank as to a favorite. Ah, well, it is pretty early…
I do like marriage of convenience stories, but my mind is drawing a blank as to a favorite. Ah, well, it is pretty early…
I do like marriage of convenience stories, but my mind is drawing a blank as to a favorite. Ah, well, it is pretty early…
Mary Jo’s The Bargain is one of my all-time favorites too, Cynthia!
Mary Jo’s The Bargain is one of my all-time favorites too, Cynthia!
Mary Jo’s The Bargain is one of my all-time favorites too, Cynthia!
Mary Jo’s The Bargain is one of my all-time favorites too, Cynthia!
Mary Jo’s The Bargain is one of my all-time favorites too, Cynthia!
Ooooh, Christine, what a delightful and informative post. I do so love marriage of convenience stories, and the last one sounds delightful. Truth is stranger than fiction, indeed!
I also love Humphrey’s story; it’s so sad and poignant, yet beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
Ooooh, Christine, what a delightful and informative post. I do so love marriage of convenience stories, and the last one sounds delightful. Truth is stranger than fiction, indeed!
I also love Humphrey’s story; it’s so sad and poignant, yet beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
Ooooh, Christine, what a delightful and informative post. I do so love marriage of convenience stories, and the last one sounds delightful. Truth is stranger than fiction, indeed!
I also love Humphrey’s story; it’s so sad and poignant, yet beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
Ooooh, Christine, what a delightful and informative post. I do so love marriage of convenience stories, and the last one sounds delightful. Truth is stranger than fiction, indeed!
I also love Humphrey’s story; it’s so sad and poignant, yet beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
Ooooh, Christine, what a delightful and informative post. I do so love marriage of convenience stories, and the last one sounds delightful. Truth is stranger than fiction, indeed!
I also love Humphrey’s story; it’s so sad and poignant, yet beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for visiting the wenches, Christina! I used to read history for the romances. It’s hard for a modern reader to understand that arranged marriages and marriages of convenience were the norm among some circles, but I adore when we can write the happy endings.
Thank you for visiting the wenches, Christina! I used to read history for the romances. It’s hard for a modern reader to understand that arranged marriages and marriages of convenience were the norm among some circles, but I adore when we can write the happy endings.
Thank you for visiting the wenches, Christina! I used to read history for the romances. It’s hard for a modern reader to understand that arranged marriages and marriages of convenience were the norm among some circles, but I adore when we can write the happy endings.
Thank you for visiting the wenches, Christina! I used to read history for the romances. It’s hard for a modern reader to understand that arranged marriages and marriages of convenience were the norm among some circles, but I adore when we can write the happy endings.
Thank you for visiting the wenches, Christina! I used to read history for the romances. It’s hard for a modern reader to understand that arranged marriages and marriages of convenience were the norm among some circles, but I adore when we can write the happy endings.
Good morning, Christine! I absolutely love it when history–so often reduced to wars and presidents and laws–gives us little glimpses of real life and real love. Thanks for those stories this morning!
When it comes to marriage of convenience stories, I’m definitely in favor. I think the MOM sounds inspired, & can’t wait to get my hands on a copy of Heiress in Love!
Good morning, Christine! I absolutely love it when history–so often reduced to wars and presidents and laws–gives us little glimpses of real life and real love. Thanks for those stories this morning!
When it comes to marriage of convenience stories, I’m definitely in favor. I think the MOM sounds inspired, & can’t wait to get my hands on a copy of Heiress in Love!
Good morning, Christine! I absolutely love it when history–so often reduced to wars and presidents and laws–gives us little glimpses of real life and real love. Thanks for those stories this morning!
When it comes to marriage of convenience stories, I’m definitely in favor. I think the MOM sounds inspired, & can’t wait to get my hands on a copy of Heiress in Love!
Good morning, Christine! I absolutely love it when history–so often reduced to wars and presidents and laws–gives us little glimpses of real life and real love. Thanks for those stories this morning!
When it comes to marriage of convenience stories, I’m definitely in favor. I think the MOM sounds inspired, & can’t wait to get my hands on a copy of Heiress in Love!
Good morning, Christine! I absolutely love it when history–so often reduced to wars and presidents and laws–gives us little glimpses of real life and real love. Thanks for those stories this morning!
When it comes to marriage of convenience stories, I’m definitely in favor. I think the MOM sounds inspired, & can’t wait to get my hands on a copy of Heiress in Love!
What a fascinating post, Christina! And I can’t wait to get my hands on this book – sounds fab! In fact, the whole series sounds great – love the idea of the MoM.
I love marriage of convenience stories. It’s one of the fun themes that works more convincingly in historicals, but I enjoy them whatever the genre. I think it’s because it reinforces the thought that anything is possible … and that things happen for a reason. Of course, with my luck, I’d be one of the unlucky ones! LOL
What a fascinating post, Christina! And I can’t wait to get my hands on this book – sounds fab! In fact, the whole series sounds great – love the idea of the MoM.
I love marriage of convenience stories. It’s one of the fun themes that works more convincingly in historicals, but I enjoy them whatever the genre. I think it’s because it reinforces the thought that anything is possible … and that things happen for a reason. Of course, with my luck, I’d be one of the unlucky ones! LOL
What a fascinating post, Christina! And I can’t wait to get my hands on this book – sounds fab! In fact, the whole series sounds great – love the idea of the MoM.
I love marriage of convenience stories. It’s one of the fun themes that works more convincingly in historicals, but I enjoy them whatever the genre. I think it’s because it reinforces the thought that anything is possible … and that things happen for a reason. Of course, with my luck, I’d be one of the unlucky ones! LOL
What a fascinating post, Christina! And I can’t wait to get my hands on this book – sounds fab! In fact, the whole series sounds great – love the idea of the MoM.
I love marriage of convenience stories. It’s one of the fun themes that works more convincingly in historicals, but I enjoy them whatever the genre. I think it’s because it reinforces the thought that anything is possible … and that things happen for a reason. Of course, with my luck, I’d be one of the unlucky ones! LOL
What a fascinating post, Christina! And I can’t wait to get my hands on this book – sounds fab! In fact, the whole series sounds great – love the idea of the MoM.
I love marriage of convenience stories. It’s one of the fun themes that works more convincingly in historicals, but I enjoy them whatever the genre. I think it’s because it reinforces the thought that anything is possible … and that things happen for a reason. Of course, with my luck, I’d be one of the unlucky ones! LOL
I love marriage of convenience stories so very much look forward to the MOM series. It’s so fascinating to watch the hero and heroine make the best of a situation over which they originally had little, if any control. They then must use that over which they do have control — their own words and actions — to create happiness and love.
I’m very happy that Jane Digby finally found her Sheikh. If she’d been a man of that era her peripatetic life and search for love would have been captured in heroic and wildly romantic poems and novels.
I’d never heard of the story of Lord and Lady March, but I now recognize it as the origin for the situation of the hero and heroine in Eloisa James’ “Duchess in Love”. So definitely, bring on the MOC stories.
I love marriage of convenience stories so very much look forward to the MOM series. It’s so fascinating to watch the hero and heroine make the best of a situation over which they originally had little, if any control. They then must use that over which they do have control — their own words and actions — to create happiness and love.
I’m very happy that Jane Digby finally found her Sheikh. If she’d been a man of that era her peripatetic life and search for love would have been captured in heroic and wildly romantic poems and novels.
I’d never heard of the story of Lord and Lady March, but I now recognize it as the origin for the situation of the hero and heroine in Eloisa James’ “Duchess in Love”. So definitely, bring on the MOC stories.
I love marriage of convenience stories so very much look forward to the MOM series. It’s so fascinating to watch the hero and heroine make the best of a situation over which they originally had little, if any control. They then must use that over which they do have control — their own words and actions — to create happiness and love.
I’m very happy that Jane Digby finally found her Sheikh. If she’d been a man of that era her peripatetic life and search for love would have been captured in heroic and wildly romantic poems and novels.
I’d never heard of the story of Lord and Lady March, but I now recognize it as the origin for the situation of the hero and heroine in Eloisa James’ “Duchess in Love”. So definitely, bring on the MOC stories.
I love marriage of convenience stories so very much look forward to the MOM series. It’s so fascinating to watch the hero and heroine make the best of a situation over which they originally had little, if any control. They then must use that over which they do have control — their own words and actions — to create happiness and love.
I’m very happy that Jane Digby finally found her Sheikh. If she’d been a man of that era her peripatetic life and search for love would have been captured in heroic and wildly romantic poems and novels.
I’d never heard of the story of Lord and Lady March, but I now recognize it as the origin for the situation of the hero and heroine in Eloisa James’ “Duchess in Love”. So definitely, bring on the MOC stories.
I love marriage of convenience stories so very much look forward to the MOM series. It’s so fascinating to watch the hero and heroine make the best of a situation over which they originally had little, if any control. They then must use that over which they do have control — their own words and actions — to create happiness and love.
I’m very happy that Jane Digby finally found her Sheikh. If she’d been a man of that era her peripatetic life and search for love would have been captured in heroic and wildly romantic poems and novels.
I’d never heard of the story of Lord and Lady March, but I now recognize it as the origin for the situation of the hero and heroine in Eloisa James’ “Duchess in Love”. So definitely, bring on the MOC stories.
Hi Margay, glad you like those MOC’s! One reason I love them is that I can be assured the hero and heroine are together a lot. I like that!
Hi Margay, glad you like those MOC’s! One reason I love them is that I can be assured the hero and heroine are together a lot. I like that!
Hi Margay, glad you like those MOC’s! One reason I love them is that I can be assured the hero and heroine are together a lot. I like that!
Hi Margay, glad you like those MOC’s! One reason I love them is that I can be assured the hero and heroine are together a lot. I like that!
Hi Margay, glad you like those MOC’s! One reason I love them is that I can be assured the hero and heroine are together a lot. I like that!
Waving to Cara! Thank you so much for having me today!
The Bargain? Oh, yes! And I adored Mary Jo’s Shattered Rainbows, too!
Waving to Cara! Thank you so much for having me today!
The Bargain? Oh, yes! And I adored Mary Jo’s Shattered Rainbows, too!
Waving to Cara! Thank you so much for having me today!
The Bargain? Oh, yes! And I adored Mary Jo’s Shattered Rainbows, too!
Waving to Cara! Thank you so much for having me today!
The Bargain? Oh, yes! And I adored Mary Jo’s Shattered Rainbows, too!
Waving to Cara! Thank you so much for having me today!
The Bargain? Oh, yes! And I adored Mary Jo’s Shattered Rainbows, too!
Hi Jo! Thanks so much for dropping in today. I know the Humphrey one didn’t have a happy ending but I found it very touching so I had to include it here.
Hi Jo! Thanks so much for dropping in today. I know the Humphrey one didn’t have a happy ending but I found it very touching so I had to include it here.
Hi Jo! Thanks so much for dropping in today. I know the Humphrey one didn’t have a happy ending but I found it very touching so I had to include it here.
Hi Jo! Thanks so much for dropping in today. I know the Humphrey one didn’t have a happy ending but I found it very touching so I had to include it here.
Hi Jo! Thanks so much for dropping in today. I know the Humphrey one didn’t have a happy ending but I found it very touching so I had to include it here.
Hi Patricia! Thank you for having me here today. I think when you read a marriage of convenience as a romance you’re predisposed to enjoy it because you know there will be a happy ending, don’t you think?
Interestingly, I found that a lot of young women by the Regency era were marrying to please their families, yet telling themselves it was for love. I’m positive that’s what Jane Digby did. While they went off on romantic flights of fancy, writing poetry and goodness knows what, I don’t think people examined their ‘love’ and analyzed it with quite the same hard-headedness that modern people do when it comes to deciding if this is ‘the one’ we want to marry.
Hi Patricia! Thank you for having me here today. I think when you read a marriage of convenience as a romance you’re predisposed to enjoy it because you know there will be a happy ending, don’t you think?
Interestingly, I found that a lot of young women by the Regency era were marrying to please their families, yet telling themselves it was for love. I’m positive that’s what Jane Digby did. While they went off on romantic flights of fancy, writing poetry and goodness knows what, I don’t think people examined their ‘love’ and analyzed it with quite the same hard-headedness that modern people do when it comes to deciding if this is ‘the one’ we want to marry.
Hi Patricia! Thank you for having me here today. I think when you read a marriage of convenience as a romance you’re predisposed to enjoy it because you know there will be a happy ending, don’t you think?
Interestingly, I found that a lot of young women by the Regency era were marrying to please their families, yet telling themselves it was for love. I’m positive that’s what Jane Digby did. While they went off on romantic flights of fancy, writing poetry and goodness knows what, I don’t think people examined their ‘love’ and analyzed it with quite the same hard-headedness that modern people do when it comes to deciding if this is ‘the one’ we want to marry.
Hi Patricia! Thank you for having me here today. I think when you read a marriage of convenience as a romance you’re predisposed to enjoy it because you know there will be a happy ending, don’t you think?
Interestingly, I found that a lot of young women by the Regency era were marrying to please their families, yet telling themselves it was for love. I’m positive that’s what Jane Digby did. While they went off on romantic flights of fancy, writing poetry and goodness knows what, I don’t think people examined their ‘love’ and analyzed it with quite the same hard-headedness that modern people do when it comes to deciding if this is ‘the one’ we want to marry.
Hi Patricia! Thank you for having me here today. I think when you read a marriage of convenience as a romance you’re predisposed to enjoy it because you know there will be a happy ending, don’t you think?
Interestingly, I found that a lot of young women by the Regency era were marrying to please their families, yet telling themselves it was for love. I’m positive that’s what Jane Digby did. While they went off on romantic flights of fancy, writing poetry and goodness knows what, I don’t think people examined their ‘love’ and analyzed it with quite the same hard-headedness that modern people do when it comes to deciding if this is ‘the one’ we want to marry.
Hi Susan! Thank you so much for visiting–I know you have a blog tour of your own at the moment for the fabulous MONEY SHOT!
These are the stories I love from history, too. My father used to tell me stories from English history and he had the ability to make history come alive. I think that’s where I found my fascination for it. Glad you like the MOM idea;)
Hi Susan! Thank you so much for visiting–I know you have a blog tour of your own at the moment for the fabulous MONEY SHOT!
These are the stories I love from history, too. My father used to tell me stories from English history and he had the ability to make history come alive. I think that’s where I found my fascination for it. Glad you like the MOM idea;)
Hi Susan! Thank you so much for visiting–I know you have a blog tour of your own at the moment for the fabulous MONEY SHOT!
These are the stories I love from history, too. My father used to tell me stories from English history and he had the ability to make history come alive. I think that’s where I found my fascination for it. Glad you like the MOM idea;)
Hi Susan! Thank you so much for visiting–I know you have a blog tour of your own at the moment for the fabulous MONEY SHOT!
These are the stories I love from history, too. My father used to tell me stories from English history and he had the ability to make history come alive. I think that’s where I found my fascination for it. Glad you like the MOM idea;)
Hi Susan! Thank you so much for visiting–I know you have a blog tour of your own at the moment for the fabulous MONEY SHOT!
These are the stories I love from history, too. My father used to tell me stories from English history and he had the ability to make history come alive. I think that’s where I found my fascination for it. Glad you like the MOM idea;)
Hi Anna! Thank you for visiting today. Yes, I love MOCs whatever the genre, too. In fact, while I know they can be rather contrived in modern day settings, I don’t care! Green Card was a perfect example of a modern MOC.
Thank you, I hope you enjoy HEIRESS IN LOVE.
Hi Anna! Thank you for visiting today. Yes, I love MOCs whatever the genre, too. In fact, while I know they can be rather contrived in modern day settings, I don’t care! Green Card was a perfect example of a modern MOC.
Thank you, I hope you enjoy HEIRESS IN LOVE.
Hi Anna! Thank you for visiting today. Yes, I love MOCs whatever the genre, too. In fact, while I know they can be rather contrived in modern day settings, I don’t care! Green Card was a perfect example of a modern MOC.
Thank you, I hope you enjoy HEIRESS IN LOVE.
Hi Anna! Thank you for visiting today. Yes, I love MOCs whatever the genre, too. In fact, while I know they can be rather contrived in modern day settings, I don’t care! Green Card was a perfect example of a modern MOC.
Thank you, I hope you enjoy HEIRESS IN LOVE.
Hi Anna! Thank you for visiting today. Yes, I love MOCs whatever the genre, too. In fact, while I know they can be rather contrived in modern day settings, I don’t care! Green Card was a perfect example of a modern MOC.
Thank you, I hope you enjoy HEIRESS IN LOVE.
Susan, what a perfect description of the appeal of the MOC! I do like that very much. And yes, Eloisa James writes them so beautifully!
Susan, what a perfect description of the appeal of the MOC! I do like that very much. And yes, Eloisa James writes them so beautifully!
Susan, what a perfect description of the appeal of the MOC! I do like that very much. And yes, Eloisa James writes them so beautifully!
Susan, what a perfect description of the appeal of the MOC! I do like that very much. And yes, Eloisa James writes them so beautifully!
Susan, what a perfect description of the appeal of the MOC! I do like that very much. And yes, Eloisa James writes them so beautifully!
Marriage of convience are my second favorites (ugly duckling-wallflower-bluestocking being my favorite, though sometimes they are combined!!!!)
Marriage of convience are my second favorites (ugly duckling-wallflower-bluestocking being my favorite, though sometimes they are combined!!!!)
Marriage of convience are my second favorites (ugly duckling-wallflower-bluestocking being my favorite, though sometimes they are combined!!!!)
Marriage of convience are my second favorites (ugly duckling-wallflower-bluestocking being my favorite, though sometimes they are combined!!!!)
Marriage of convience are my second favorites (ugly duckling-wallflower-bluestocking being my favorite, though sometimes they are combined!!!!)
Wendy, your favorite trope will now be known as the UDWB:) I love those, too! I’m planning to write a couple of MOC/UDWB books in my next trilogy when I deal with the Westruther men.
Wendy, your favorite trope will now be known as the UDWB:) I love those, too! I’m planning to write a couple of MOC/UDWB books in my next trilogy when I deal with the Westruther men.
Wendy, your favorite trope will now be known as the UDWB:) I love those, too! I’m planning to write a couple of MOC/UDWB books in my next trilogy when I deal with the Westruther men.
Wendy, your favorite trope will now be known as the UDWB:) I love those, too! I’m planning to write a couple of MOC/UDWB books in my next trilogy when I deal with the Westruther men.
Wendy, your favorite trope will now be known as the UDWB:) I love those, too! I’m planning to write a couple of MOC/UDWB books in my next trilogy when I deal with the Westruther men.
I love the post! Love to hear about really fascinating stories that have happened long ago in a world so different and unknown to us.
I love the marriages of convenience storylines. It’s like a fated thing that neither party realizes until they take a true look at the person they’ve married.
I love the post! Love to hear about really fascinating stories that have happened long ago in a world so different and unknown to us.
I love the marriages of convenience storylines. It’s like a fated thing that neither party realizes until they take a true look at the person they’ve married.
I love the post! Love to hear about really fascinating stories that have happened long ago in a world so different and unknown to us.
I love the marriages of convenience storylines. It’s like a fated thing that neither party realizes until they take a true look at the person they’ve married.
I love the post! Love to hear about really fascinating stories that have happened long ago in a world so different and unknown to us.
I love the marriages of convenience storylines. It’s like a fated thing that neither party realizes until they take a true look at the person they’ve married.
I love the post! Love to hear about really fascinating stories that have happened long ago in a world so different and unknown to us.
I love the marriages of convenience storylines. It’s like a fated thing that neither party realizes until they take a true look at the person they’ve married.
Hi Heather! Thank you, glad you enjoyed the post. I love the idea of the match being fated… and the idea of the parties having to see each other clearly to realize they’ve met their destiny! I wonder if Lady March/Duchess of Richmond hadn’t turned into a beauty whether her husband would have loved her still. I like to think he would have!
Hi Heather! Thank you, glad you enjoyed the post. I love the idea of the match being fated… and the idea of the parties having to see each other clearly to realize they’ve met their destiny! I wonder if Lady March/Duchess of Richmond hadn’t turned into a beauty whether her husband would have loved her still. I like to think he would have!
Hi Heather! Thank you, glad you enjoyed the post. I love the idea of the match being fated… and the idea of the parties having to see each other clearly to realize they’ve met their destiny! I wonder if Lady March/Duchess of Richmond hadn’t turned into a beauty whether her husband would have loved her still. I like to think he would have!
Hi Heather! Thank you, glad you enjoyed the post. I love the idea of the match being fated… and the idea of the parties having to see each other clearly to realize they’ve met their destiny! I wonder if Lady March/Duchess of Richmond hadn’t turned into a beauty whether her husband would have loved her still. I like to think he would have!
Hi Heather! Thank you, glad you enjoyed the post. I love the idea of the match being fated… and the idea of the parties having to see each other clearly to realize they’ve met their destiny! I wonder if Lady March/Duchess of Richmond hadn’t turned into a beauty whether her husband would have loved her still. I like to think he would have!
This just sounds lovely! MoC is not my favorite trope, but when done well, it’s wonderful.
This just sounds lovely! MoC is not my favorite trope, but when done well, it’s wonderful.
This just sounds lovely! MoC is not my favorite trope, but when done well, it’s wonderful.
This just sounds lovely! MoC is not my favorite trope, but when done well, it’s wonderful.
This just sounds lovely! MoC is not my favorite trope, but when done well, it’s wonderful.
Hi Christina!
Oooh, love your stories–these are exactly the reason why I can never understand people who think history is boring. 🙂 I had never heard Humphrey’s romantic tale. Love it!
I love MOC’s! I agree, Mary Jo’s The Bargain is a big fave of mine. I just read a medieval by Claudia Dain–The Holding– that was a great MOC, too.
I’m so looking forward to Heiress in Love!
Hi Christina!
Oooh, love your stories–these are exactly the reason why I can never understand people who think history is boring. 🙂 I had never heard Humphrey’s romantic tale. Love it!
I love MOC’s! I agree, Mary Jo’s The Bargain is a big fave of mine. I just read a medieval by Claudia Dain–The Holding– that was a great MOC, too.
I’m so looking forward to Heiress in Love!
Hi Christina!
Oooh, love your stories–these are exactly the reason why I can never understand people who think history is boring. 🙂 I had never heard Humphrey’s romantic tale. Love it!
I love MOC’s! I agree, Mary Jo’s The Bargain is a big fave of mine. I just read a medieval by Claudia Dain–The Holding– that was a great MOC, too.
I’m so looking forward to Heiress in Love!
Hi Christina!
Oooh, love your stories–these are exactly the reason why I can never understand people who think history is boring. 🙂 I had never heard Humphrey’s romantic tale. Love it!
I love MOC’s! I agree, Mary Jo’s The Bargain is a big fave of mine. I just read a medieval by Claudia Dain–The Holding– that was a great MOC, too.
I’m so looking forward to Heiress in Love!
Hi Christina!
Oooh, love your stories–these are exactly the reason why I can never understand people who think history is boring. 🙂 I had never heard Humphrey’s romantic tale. Love it!
I love MOC’s! I agree, Mary Jo’s The Bargain is a big fave of mine. I just read a medieval by Claudia Dain–The Holding– that was a great MOC, too.
I’m so looking forward to Heiress in Love!
Hi Isobel, thank you! I hope you enjoy this MOC:)
Hi Isobel, thank you! I hope you enjoy this MOC:)
Hi Isobel, thank you! I hope you enjoy this MOC:)
Hi Isobel, thank you! I hope you enjoy this MOC:)
Hi Isobel, thank you! I hope you enjoy this MOC:)
Deb, thank you so much for dropping in today. Lovely to see you! Yes, I agree–I particularly love to get at the human side of history, although the wars and other monumental events interest me, too.
I haven’t read Claudia’s The Holding. I must hunt it down.
Deb, thank you so much for dropping in today. Lovely to see you! Yes, I agree–I particularly love to get at the human side of history, although the wars and other monumental events interest me, too.
I haven’t read Claudia’s The Holding. I must hunt it down.
Deb, thank you so much for dropping in today. Lovely to see you! Yes, I agree–I particularly love to get at the human side of history, although the wars and other monumental events interest me, too.
I haven’t read Claudia’s The Holding. I must hunt it down.
Deb, thank you so much for dropping in today. Lovely to see you! Yes, I agree–I particularly love to get at the human side of history, although the wars and other monumental events interest me, too.
I haven’t read Claudia’s The Holding. I must hunt it down.
Deb, thank you so much for dropping in today. Lovely to see you! Yes, I agree–I particularly love to get at the human side of history, although the wars and other monumental events interest me, too.
I haven’t read Claudia’s The Holding. I must hunt it down.
Hi Christina
I do love the sound of this book can’t wait to read it. And I do so love marriage of convinience stories and one that comes to mind is Anna Campbell’s Captive of Sin where Gideon marries Charis to save her and what a fantastic story that was.
Congrats on the up coming release
Have Fun
Helen
Hi Christina
I do love the sound of this book can’t wait to read it. And I do so love marriage of convinience stories and one that comes to mind is Anna Campbell’s Captive of Sin where Gideon marries Charis to save her and what a fantastic story that was.
Congrats on the up coming release
Have Fun
Helen
Hi Christina
I do love the sound of this book can’t wait to read it. And I do so love marriage of convinience stories and one that comes to mind is Anna Campbell’s Captive of Sin where Gideon marries Charis to save her and what a fantastic story that was.
Congrats on the up coming release
Have Fun
Helen
Hi Christina
I do love the sound of this book can’t wait to read it. And I do so love marriage of convinience stories and one that comes to mind is Anna Campbell’s Captive of Sin where Gideon marries Charis to save her and what a fantastic story that was.
Congrats on the up coming release
Have Fun
Helen
Hi Christina
I do love the sound of this book can’t wait to read it. And I do so love marriage of convinience stories and one that comes to mind is Anna Campbell’s Captive of Sin where Gideon marries Charis to save her and what a fantastic story that was.
Congrats on the up coming release
Have Fun
Helen
Congrats on the new series. I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories. My favorites include Lisa Kleypas’ “Devil in Winter” and Julie Garwood’s “Saving Grace.”
Congrats on the new series. I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories. My favorites include Lisa Kleypas’ “Devil in Winter” and Julie Garwood’s “Saving Grace.”
Congrats on the new series. I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories. My favorites include Lisa Kleypas’ “Devil in Winter” and Julie Garwood’s “Saving Grace.”
Congrats on the new series. I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories. My favorites include Lisa Kleypas’ “Devil in Winter” and Julie Garwood’s “Saving Grace.”
Congrats on the new series. I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories. My favorites include Lisa Kleypas’ “Devil in Winter” and Julie Garwood’s “Saving Grace.”
Ooh, yes, Helen, Captive of Sin is another great one. Love that book!
Ooh, yes, Helen, Captive of Sin is another great one. Love that book!
Ooh, yes, Helen, Captive of Sin is another great one. Love that book!
Ooh, yes, Helen, Captive of Sin is another great one. Love that book!
Ooh, yes, Helen, Captive of Sin is another great one. Love that book!
Thank you Helen! So agree about Captive of Sin. It’s such a poignant and beautiful story.
Thank you Helen! So agree about Captive of Sin. It’s such a poignant and beautiful story.
Thank you Helen! So agree about Captive of Sin. It’s such a poignant and beautiful story.
Thank you Helen! So agree about Captive of Sin. It’s such a poignant and beautiful story.
Thank you Helen! So agree about Captive of Sin. It’s such a poignant and beautiful story.
Hi Cyclops! Oh, yes I love Lisa Kleypas’s Devil in Winter. I lent it to someone and never got it back (wonder why! She probably loved it too) I must buy it again. A bit like Mr. Impossible which I’ve had to buy 3 times due to lending it and not getting it back!
Hi Cyclops! Oh, yes I love Lisa Kleypas’s Devil in Winter. I lent it to someone and never got it back (wonder why! She probably loved it too) I must buy it again. A bit like Mr. Impossible which I’ve had to buy 3 times due to lending it and not getting it back!
Hi Cyclops! Oh, yes I love Lisa Kleypas’s Devil in Winter. I lent it to someone and never got it back (wonder why! She probably loved it too) I must buy it again. A bit like Mr. Impossible which I’ve had to buy 3 times due to lending it and not getting it back!
Hi Cyclops! Oh, yes I love Lisa Kleypas’s Devil in Winter. I lent it to someone and never got it back (wonder why! She probably loved it too) I must buy it again. A bit like Mr. Impossible which I’ve had to buy 3 times due to lending it and not getting it back!
Hi Cyclops! Oh, yes I love Lisa Kleypas’s Devil in Winter. I lent it to someone and never got it back (wonder why! She probably loved it too) I must buy it again. A bit like Mr. Impossible which I’ve had to buy 3 times due to lending it and not getting it back!
I’m very fond of MoC stories, but I can’t pick just one. Here are 3 that come to mind: Devil in Winter (combines the reformed rake and MoC story; what’s not to love?), An Arranged Marriage, and Mary Balogh’s First Comes Marriage.
I look forward to Heiress in Love!
I’m very fond of MoC stories, but I can’t pick just one. Here are 3 that come to mind: Devil in Winter (combines the reformed rake and MoC story; what’s not to love?), An Arranged Marriage, and Mary Balogh’s First Comes Marriage.
I look forward to Heiress in Love!
I’m very fond of MoC stories, but I can’t pick just one. Here are 3 that come to mind: Devil in Winter (combines the reformed rake and MoC story; what’s not to love?), An Arranged Marriage, and Mary Balogh’s First Comes Marriage.
I look forward to Heiress in Love!
I’m very fond of MoC stories, but I can’t pick just one. Here are 3 that come to mind: Devil in Winter (combines the reformed rake and MoC story; what’s not to love?), An Arranged Marriage, and Mary Balogh’s First Comes Marriage.
I look forward to Heiress in Love!
I’m very fond of MoC stories, but I can’t pick just one. Here are 3 that come to mind: Devil in Winter (combines the reformed rake and MoC story; what’s not to love?), An Arranged Marriage, and Mary Balogh’s First Comes Marriage.
I look forward to Heiress in Love!
True love. Who can’t but be a fan? A marriage of convenience romance plot. What’s not to love? A couple of my favorites are Georgette Heyer’s The Convenient Marriage and Julia Quinn’s Brighter than the Sun. Look forward to reading your new book.
True love. Who can’t but be a fan? A marriage of convenience romance plot. What’s not to love? A couple of my favorites are Georgette Heyer’s The Convenient Marriage and Julia Quinn’s Brighter than the Sun. Look forward to reading your new book.
True love. Who can’t but be a fan? A marriage of convenience romance plot. What’s not to love? A couple of my favorites are Georgette Heyer’s The Convenient Marriage and Julia Quinn’s Brighter than the Sun. Look forward to reading your new book.
True love. Who can’t but be a fan? A marriage of convenience romance plot. What’s not to love? A couple of my favorites are Georgette Heyer’s The Convenient Marriage and Julia Quinn’s Brighter than the Sun. Look forward to reading your new book.
True love. Who can’t but be a fan? A marriage of convenience romance plot. What’s not to love? A couple of my favorites are Georgette Heyer’s The Convenient Marriage and Julia Quinn’s Brighter than the Sun. Look forward to reading your new book.
I think Jamie and Claire- Outlander- started out as a marriage of convenience but became much much more.
Can’t wait to read this!!
I think Jamie and Claire- Outlander- started out as a marriage of convenience but became much much more.
Can’t wait to read this!!
I think Jamie and Claire- Outlander- started out as a marriage of convenience but became much much more.
Can’t wait to read this!!
I think Jamie and Claire- Outlander- started out as a marriage of convenience but became much much more.
Can’t wait to read this!!
I think Jamie and Claire- Outlander- started out as a marriage of convenience but became much much more.
Can’t wait to read this!!
Hi Annie, thank you for those! I loved them all, too! Jo Beverley has had some amazing set-ups for her arranged marriages, especially in the Rogues series.
Hi Annie, thank you for those! I loved them all, too! Jo Beverley has had some amazing set-ups for her arranged marriages, especially in the Rogues series.
Hi Annie, thank you for those! I loved them all, too! Jo Beverley has had some amazing set-ups for her arranged marriages, especially in the Rogues series.
Hi Annie, thank you for those! I loved them all, too! Jo Beverley has had some amazing set-ups for her arranged marriages, especially in the Rogues series.
Hi Annie, thank you for those! I loved them all, too! Jo Beverley has had some amazing set-ups for her arranged marriages, especially in the Rogues series.
Hi Kat, thanks for commenting! Oh, yes, Heyer’s The Convenient Marriage is wonderful. I recently listened to that on audiobook with Richard Armitage reading. Divine! And of course, the wonderful Julia Quinn does romance so brilliantly! I don’t think I’ve read Brighter than the Sun. Must get that one!
Hi Kat, thanks for commenting! Oh, yes, Heyer’s The Convenient Marriage is wonderful. I recently listened to that on audiobook with Richard Armitage reading. Divine! And of course, the wonderful Julia Quinn does romance so brilliantly! I don’t think I’ve read Brighter than the Sun. Must get that one!
Hi Kat, thanks for commenting! Oh, yes, Heyer’s The Convenient Marriage is wonderful. I recently listened to that on audiobook with Richard Armitage reading. Divine! And of course, the wonderful Julia Quinn does romance so brilliantly! I don’t think I’ve read Brighter than the Sun. Must get that one!
Hi Kat, thanks for commenting! Oh, yes, Heyer’s The Convenient Marriage is wonderful. I recently listened to that on audiobook with Richard Armitage reading. Divine! And of course, the wonderful Julia Quinn does romance so brilliantly! I don’t think I’ve read Brighter than the Sun. Must get that one!
Hi Kat, thanks for commenting! Oh, yes, Heyer’s The Convenient Marriage is wonderful. I recently listened to that on audiobook with Richard Armitage reading. Divine! And of course, the wonderful Julia Quinn does romance so brilliantly! I don’t think I’ve read Brighter than the Sun. Must get that one!
Hi Sheila!! *Waving madly*
Jamie and Claire are certainly a sighworthy couple, aren’t they? Thanks for commenting–I hope you enjoy HEIRESS.
Hi Sheila!! *Waving madly*
Jamie and Claire are certainly a sighworthy couple, aren’t they? Thanks for commenting–I hope you enjoy HEIRESS.
Hi Sheila!! *Waving madly*
Jamie and Claire are certainly a sighworthy couple, aren’t they? Thanks for commenting–I hope you enjoy HEIRESS.
Hi Sheila!! *Waving madly*
Jamie and Claire are certainly a sighworthy couple, aren’t they? Thanks for commenting–I hope you enjoy HEIRESS.
Hi Sheila!! *Waving madly*
Jamie and Claire are certainly a sighworthy couple, aren’t they? Thanks for commenting–I hope you enjoy HEIRESS.
Favorites, couldnt begin to name. But they are a good story idea. I really dont pick books on those though. I am a cover (I know, so shallow of me.) and the author. I find new authors with give aways and other reader reviews. Btw…lovely cover! 🙂
Favorites, couldnt begin to name. But they are a good story idea. I really dont pick books on those though. I am a cover (I know, so shallow of me.) and the author. I find new authors with give aways and other reader reviews. Btw…lovely cover! 🙂
Favorites, couldnt begin to name. But they are a good story idea. I really dont pick books on those though. I am a cover (I know, so shallow of me.) and the author. I find new authors with give aways and other reader reviews. Btw…lovely cover! 🙂
Favorites, couldnt begin to name. But they are a good story idea. I really dont pick books on those though. I am a cover (I know, so shallow of me.) and the author. I find new authors with give aways and other reader reviews. Btw…lovely cover! 🙂
Favorites, couldnt begin to name. But they are a good story idea. I really dont pick books on those though. I am a cover (I know, so shallow of me.) and the author. I find new authors with give aways and other reader reviews. Btw…lovely cover! 🙂
Hi Lisa! You’re not alone in choosing by the cover–that’s why publishers put so much effort into them. And of course, favorite authors and word of mouth are good ways of finding books to love. Thanks for the compliment on the cover. My publisher did a magnificent job.
Hi Lisa! You’re not alone in choosing by the cover–that’s why publishers put so much effort into them. And of course, favorite authors and word of mouth are good ways of finding books to love. Thanks for the compliment on the cover. My publisher did a magnificent job.
Hi Lisa! You’re not alone in choosing by the cover–that’s why publishers put so much effort into them. And of course, favorite authors and word of mouth are good ways of finding books to love. Thanks for the compliment on the cover. My publisher did a magnificent job.
Hi Lisa! You’re not alone in choosing by the cover–that’s why publishers put so much effort into them. And of course, favorite authors and word of mouth are good ways of finding books to love. Thanks for the compliment on the cover. My publisher did a magnificent job.
Hi Lisa! You’re not alone in choosing by the cover–that’s why publishers put so much effort into them. And of course, favorite authors and word of mouth are good ways of finding books to love. Thanks for the compliment on the cover. My publisher did a magnificent job.
I am intrigued by a Marriage of Convience, can’t name a favorite book though, read too many to really remember. But, I do have an internet friend who was in an arranged marriage and she seems to be enjoying it. It’s just so different from what we practice.
The books sound totally awesome though and I can’t wait to read them!
Amy
I am intrigued by a Marriage of Convience, can’t name a favorite book though, read too many to really remember. But, I do have an internet friend who was in an arranged marriage and she seems to be enjoying it. It’s just so different from what we practice.
The books sound totally awesome though and I can’t wait to read them!
Amy
I am intrigued by a Marriage of Convience, can’t name a favorite book though, read too many to really remember. But, I do have an internet friend who was in an arranged marriage and she seems to be enjoying it. It’s just so different from what we practice.
The books sound totally awesome though and I can’t wait to read them!
Amy
I am intrigued by a Marriage of Convience, can’t name a favorite book though, read too many to really remember. But, I do have an internet friend who was in an arranged marriage and she seems to be enjoying it. It’s just so different from what we practice.
The books sound totally awesome though and I can’t wait to read them!
Amy
I am intrigued by a Marriage of Convience, can’t name a favorite book though, read too many to really remember. But, I do have an internet friend who was in an arranged marriage and she seems to be enjoying it. It’s just so different from what we practice.
The books sound totally awesome though and I can’t wait to read them!
Amy
I’m glad someone mentioned Outlander. I can’t believe it didn’t pop into my mind because it’s one of my all-time favorite books.
I’m glad someone mentioned Outlander. I can’t believe it didn’t pop into my mind because it’s one of my all-time favorite books.
I’m glad someone mentioned Outlander. I can’t believe it didn’t pop into my mind because it’s one of my all-time favorite books.
I’m glad someone mentioned Outlander. I can’t believe it didn’t pop into my mind because it’s one of my all-time favorite books.
I’m glad someone mentioned Outlander. I can’t believe it didn’t pop into my mind because it’s one of my all-time favorite books.
Hi Amy, thanks for commenting! Yes I can’t conceive of participating in an arranged marriage but I think if it’s the norm in your culture, you do your best to make it work and I suspect that it’s that willingness that gets people at least half way there. Hope you enjoy the books!
Hi Amy, thanks for commenting! Yes I can’t conceive of participating in an arranged marriage but I think if it’s the norm in your culture, you do your best to make it work and I suspect that it’s that willingness that gets people at least half way there. Hope you enjoy the books!
Hi Amy, thanks for commenting! Yes I can’t conceive of participating in an arranged marriage but I think if it’s the norm in your culture, you do your best to make it work and I suspect that it’s that willingness that gets people at least half way there. Hope you enjoy the books!
Hi Amy, thanks for commenting! Yes I can’t conceive of participating in an arranged marriage but I think if it’s the norm in your culture, you do your best to make it work and I suspect that it’s that willingness that gets people at least half way there. Hope you enjoy the books!
Hi Amy, thanks for commenting! Yes I can’t conceive of participating in an arranged marriage but I think if it’s the norm in your culture, you do your best to make it work and I suspect that it’s that willingness that gets people at least half way there. Hope you enjoy the books!
Shannon, Outlander is the perennial favorite, isn’t it? An amazing book and a fabulous romance.
Shannon, Outlander is the perennial favorite, isn’t it? An amazing book and a fabulous romance.
Shannon, Outlander is the perennial favorite, isn’t it? An amazing book and a fabulous romance.
Shannon, Outlander is the perennial favorite, isn’t it? An amazing book and a fabulous romance.
Shannon, Outlander is the perennial favorite, isn’t it? An amazing book and a fabulous romance.
I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories. I discovered the Jane Digby story some months ago, and actually found it rather sad, having to live for so long before finally finding real love.
Further to the MOC stories, I believe they were similar to the present day arranged marriages as practiced in some cultures. I do know some migrant couples here in Australia whose mariages were arranged and they were very successful. Of course the MOC stories in the romance literature was /is usually associated with the wealthy aristocracy.
I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories. I discovered the Jane Digby story some months ago, and actually found it rather sad, having to live for so long before finally finding real love.
Further to the MOC stories, I believe they were similar to the present day arranged marriages as practiced in some cultures. I do know some migrant couples here in Australia whose mariages were arranged and they were very successful. Of course the MOC stories in the romance literature was /is usually associated with the wealthy aristocracy.
I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories. I discovered the Jane Digby story some months ago, and actually found it rather sad, having to live for so long before finally finding real love.
Further to the MOC stories, I believe they were similar to the present day arranged marriages as practiced in some cultures. I do know some migrant couples here in Australia whose mariages were arranged and they were very successful. Of course the MOC stories in the romance literature was /is usually associated with the wealthy aristocracy.
I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories. I discovered the Jane Digby story some months ago, and actually found it rather sad, having to live for so long before finally finding real love.
Further to the MOC stories, I believe they were similar to the present day arranged marriages as practiced in some cultures. I do know some migrant couples here in Australia whose mariages were arranged and they were very successful. Of course the MOC stories in the romance literature was /is usually associated with the wealthy aristocracy.
I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories. I discovered the Jane Digby story some months ago, and actually found it rather sad, having to live for so long before finally finding real love.
Further to the MOC stories, I believe they were similar to the present day arranged marriages as practiced in some cultures. I do know some migrant couples here in Australia whose mariages were arranged and they were very successful. Of course the MOC stories in the romance literature was /is usually associated with the wealthy aristocracy.
Hi Jenny! I suppose whether Jane’s life was sad depends on your viewpoint. I felt that after a disastrous start, she ended in triumph.
Yes, I know someone whose parents’ marriage was arranged and they were very happy together. I think it all depends on temperament and how willing you are to accept one another and work at the marriage, doesn’t it?
Hi Jenny! I suppose whether Jane’s life was sad depends on your viewpoint. I felt that after a disastrous start, she ended in triumph.
Yes, I know someone whose parents’ marriage was arranged and they were very happy together. I think it all depends on temperament and how willing you are to accept one another and work at the marriage, doesn’t it?
Hi Jenny! I suppose whether Jane’s life was sad depends on your viewpoint. I felt that after a disastrous start, she ended in triumph.
Yes, I know someone whose parents’ marriage was arranged and they were very happy together. I think it all depends on temperament and how willing you are to accept one another and work at the marriage, doesn’t it?
Hi Jenny! I suppose whether Jane’s life was sad depends on your viewpoint. I felt that after a disastrous start, she ended in triumph.
Yes, I know someone whose parents’ marriage was arranged and they were very happy together. I think it all depends on temperament and how willing you are to accept one another and work at the marriage, doesn’t it?
Hi Jenny! I suppose whether Jane’s life was sad depends on your viewpoint. I felt that after a disastrous start, she ended in triumph.
Yes, I know someone whose parents’ marriage was arranged and they were very happy together. I think it all depends on temperament and how willing you are to accept one another and work at the marriage, doesn’t it?
Belated welcome to the Word Wenches, Christina. I also love a marriage of convenience story and have written quite a few in my time.
Love your cover, by the way — simply gorgeous. All the very best with the launch of your new series. See you in New York in a few weeks.
Belated welcome to the Word Wenches, Christina. I also love a marriage of convenience story and have written quite a few in my time.
Love your cover, by the way — simply gorgeous. All the very best with the launch of your new series. See you in New York in a few weeks.
Belated welcome to the Word Wenches, Christina. I also love a marriage of convenience story and have written quite a few in my time.
Love your cover, by the way — simply gorgeous. All the very best with the launch of your new series. See you in New York in a few weeks.
Belated welcome to the Word Wenches, Christina. I also love a marriage of convenience story and have written quite a few in my time.
Love your cover, by the way — simply gorgeous. All the very best with the launch of your new series. See you in New York in a few weeks.
Belated welcome to the Word Wenches, Christina. I also love a marriage of convenience story and have written quite a few in my time.
Love your cover, by the way — simply gorgeous. All the very best with the launch of your new series. See you in New York in a few weeks.
Enjoyed your post.
MoCs are new genre for me.
Most recent romance novel w/ historical basis I’m recommending is Jamie Ford’s Hotel on The Corner of Bitter and Sweet.
Enjoyed your post.
MoCs are new genre for me.
Most recent romance novel w/ historical basis I’m recommending is Jamie Ford’s Hotel on The Corner of Bitter and Sweet.
Enjoyed your post.
MoCs are new genre for me.
Most recent romance novel w/ historical basis I’m recommending is Jamie Ford’s Hotel on The Corner of Bitter and Sweet.
Enjoyed your post.
MoCs are new genre for me.
Most recent romance novel w/ historical basis I’m recommending is Jamie Ford’s Hotel on The Corner of Bitter and Sweet.
Enjoyed your post.
MoCs are new genre for me.
Most recent romance novel w/ historical basis I’m recommending is Jamie Ford’s Hotel on The Corner of Bitter and Sweet.
I love marriage of convenience stories and love can’t wait to read your first book in the MOM series, HEIRESS IN LOVE. Of course I do like it when they fall in love with each other and have a HEA ending. I would love to win Heiress in Love.
I just finished reading Anna Campbell’s Captive of Sin and loved it. I have read several of her books and enjoyed each one.
I love marriage of convenience stories and love can’t wait to read your first book in the MOM series, HEIRESS IN LOVE. Of course I do like it when they fall in love with each other and have a HEA ending. I would love to win Heiress in Love.
I just finished reading Anna Campbell’s Captive of Sin and loved it. I have read several of her books and enjoyed each one.
I love marriage of convenience stories and love can’t wait to read your first book in the MOM series, HEIRESS IN LOVE. Of course I do like it when they fall in love with each other and have a HEA ending. I would love to win Heiress in Love.
I just finished reading Anna Campbell’s Captive of Sin and loved it. I have read several of her books and enjoyed each one.
I love marriage of convenience stories and love can’t wait to read your first book in the MOM series, HEIRESS IN LOVE. Of course I do like it when they fall in love with each other and have a HEA ending. I would love to win Heiress in Love.
I just finished reading Anna Campbell’s Captive of Sin and loved it. I have read several of her books and enjoyed each one.
I love marriage of convenience stories and love can’t wait to read your first book in the MOM series, HEIRESS IN LOVE. Of course I do like it when they fall in love with each other and have a HEA ending. I would love to win Heiress in Love.
I just finished reading Anna Campbell’s Captive of Sin and loved it. I have read several of her books and enjoyed each one.
Hi Anne! Thank you so much for the welcome. You write MOCs so well! I count my lucky stars for that cover. St. Martin’s did a lovely job. I am looking forward to seeing you, too. It’s going to be a lot of fun.
Hi Anne! Thank you so much for the welcome. You write MOCs so well! I count my lucky stars for that cover. St. Martin’s did a lovely job. I am looking forward to seeing you, too. It’s going to be a lot of fun.
Hi Anne! Thank you so much for the welcome. You write MOCs so well! I count my lucky stars for that cover. St. Martin’s did a lovely job. I am looking forward to seeing you, too. It’s going to be a lot of fun.
Hi Anne! Thank you so much for the welcome. You write MOCs so well! I count my lucky stars for that cover. St. Martin’s did a lovely job. I am looking forward to seeing you, too. It’s going to be a lot of fun.
Hi Anne! Thank you so much for the welcome. You write MOCs so well! I count my lucky stars for that cover. St. Martin’s did a lovely job. I am looking forward to seeing you, too. It’s going to be a lot of fun.
Misskallie, aren’t Anna’s books amazing? I can never decide which one is my favorite but Captive comes close! Best of luck in the draw. I hope you enjoy HEIRESS IN LOVE!
Misskallie, aren’t Anna’s books amazing? I can never decide which one is my favorite but Captive comes close! Best of luck in the draw. I hope you enjoy HEIRESS IN LOVE!
Misskallie, aren’t Anna’s books amazing? I can never decide which one is my favorite but Captive comes close! Best of luck in the draw. I hope you enjoy HEIRESS IN LOVE!
Misskallie, aren’t Anna’s books amazing? I can never decide which one is my favorite but Captive comes close! Best of luck in the draw. I hope you enjoy HEIRESS IN LOVE!
Misskallie, aren’t Anna’s books amazing? I can never decide which one is my favorite but Captive comes close! Best of luck in the draw. I hope you enjoy HEIRESS IN LOVE!
Great comments, everyone! Sounds like MOC strikes a chord with a lot of readers! I love it because it really does offer such a wonderful array of tensions, conflicts and discoveries!
Great comments, everyone! Sounds like MOC strikes a chord with a lot of readers! I love it because it really does offer such a wonderful array of tensions, conflicts and discoveries!
Great comments, everyone! Sounds like MOC strikes a chord with a lot of readers! I love it because it really does offer such a wonderful array of tensions, conflicts and discoveries!
Great comments, everyone! Sounds like MOC strikes a chord with a lot of readers! I love it because it really does offer such a wonderful array of tensions, conflicts and discoveries!
Great comments, everyone! Sounds like MOC strikes a chord with a lot of readers! I love it because it really does offer such a wonderful array of tensions, conflicts and discoveries!
Hi Cara–yes, you’re so right! And the couple is forced to be together and to resolve their problems, which is another attraction for me.
Thank you so much for having me on Word Wenches! I’m having a great time chatting with your readers.
Hi Cara–yes, you’re so right! And the couple is forced to be together and to resolve their problems, which is another attraction for me.
Thank you so much for having me on Word Wenches! I’m having a great time chatting with your readers.
Hi Cara–yes, you’re so right! And the couple is forced to be together and to resolve their problems, which is another attraction for me.
Thank you so much for having me on Word Wenches! I’m having a great time chatting with your readers.
Hi Cara–yes, you’re so right! And the couple is forced to be together and to resolve their problems, which is another attraction for me.
Thank you so much for having me on Word Wenches! I’m having a great time chatting with your readers.
Hi Cara–yes, you’re so right! And the couple is forced to be together and to resolve their problems, which is another attraction for me.
Thank you so much for having me on Word Wenches! I’m having a great time chatting with your readers.
Yes I do love marriage of convenience stories, Anna Cambells book was awesome. Another one I just read was Emily March’s book Angel’s Rest. Gabe marries Nic want say no more don’t want to give away the story.
Yes I do love marriage of convenience stories, Anna Cambells book was awesome. Another one I just read was Emily March’s book Angel’s Rest. Gabe marries Nic want say no more don’t want to give away the story.
Yes I do love marriage of convenience stories, Anna Cambells book was awesome. Another one I just read was Emily March’s book Angel’s Rest. Gabe marries Nic want say no more don’t want to give away the story.
Yes I do love marriage of convenience stories, Anna Cambells book was awesome. Another one I just read was Emily March’s book Angel’s Rest. Gabe marries Nic want say no more don’t want to give away the story.
Yes I do love marriage of convenience stories, Anna Cambells book was awesome. Another one I just read was Emily March’s book Angel’s Rest. Gabe marries Nic want say no more don’t want to give away the story.
So glad you visited with us, Christina. Come back anytime!
So glad you visited with us, Christina. Come back anytime!
So glad you visited with us, Christina. Come back anytime!
So glad you visited with us, Christina. Come back anytime!
So glad you visited with us, Christina. Come back anytime!
Quilt Lady, I have heard great things about Emily March. I must try her books. And of course, Anna’s Captive of Sin is a classic marriage of convenience. Thanks for commenting!
Quilt Lady, I have heard great things about Emily March. I must try her books. And of course, Anna’s Captive of Sin is a classic marriage of convenience. Thanks for commenting!
Quilt Lady, I have heard great things about Emily March. I must try her books. And of course, Anna’s Captive of Sin is a classic marriage of convenience. Thanks for commenting!
Quilt Lady, I have heard great things about Emily March. I must try her books. And of course, Anna’s Captive of Sin is a classic marriage of convenience. Thanks for commenting!
Quilt Lady, I have heard great things about Emily March. I must try her books. And of course, Anna’s Captive of Sin is a classic marriage of convenience. Thanks for commenting!
What a wonderful post, Christina! I LOVE marriage of convenience stories as they always take such delightful twists and turns before they reach the HEA!
Mary Balogh’s Slightly Married comes to mind. And Lisa Kleypas’s Devil in Winter. And Julia Quinn’s To Sir Phillip with Love.
My favorite romance story, however, is the one about the young Pennsylvania airman stationed in Germany with two Alabama brothers. He spied a photo on one of the brothers’ desk and ask who the pretty girl was. They said “That’s no girl. That’s our sister!” It was the 50’s and girls often wrote to soldiers overseas as pen pals. The young airman asked permission to write to the girl. The brothers said sure, but assured him she wouldn’t write back. They were wrong. Over a period of a year the young airman and the Alabama belle wrote to each other, sometimes two and three times a week. At the end of the year the airman was shipped home to Pennsylvania. He stopped off to see his folks on May 3rd. They wanted to celebrate his birthday on May 4th, but he said he couldn’t. He was going to Alabama to meet a girl. He’d bought an engagement ring and matching wedding band in Germany. In England he’d bought an entire set of silver and had the handles engraved with the girl’s first and last initial followed by his last initial. They met May 4th. They had one date. They married May 11th. They were married for over 40 years before the airman’s romantic heart gave out. I believe in the power and romance of the written word. It’s the whole reason I’m here. They airman was my Dad and the Alabama belle is my Mom.
What a wonderful post, Christina! I LOVE marriage of convenience stories as they always take such delightful twists and turns before they reach the HEA!
Mary Balogh’s Slightly Married comes to mind. And Lisa Kleypas’s Devil in Winter. And Julia Quinn’s To Sir Phillip with Love.
My favorite romance story, however, is the one about the young Pennsylvania airman stationed in Germany with two Alabama brothers. He spied a photo on one of the brothers’ desk and ask who the pretty girl was. They said “That’s no girl. That’s our sister!” It was the 50’s and girls often wrote to soldiers overseas as pen pals. The young airman asked permission to write to the girl. The brothers said sure, but assured him she wouldn’t write back. They were wrong. Over a period of a year the young airman and the Alabama belle wrote to each other, sometimes two and three times a week. At the end of the year the airman was shipped home to Pennsylvania. He stopped off to see his folks on May 3rd. They wanted to celebrate his birthday on May 4th, but he said he couldn’t. He was going to Alabama to meet a girl. He’d bought an engagement ring and matching wedding band in Germany. In England he’d bought an entire set of silver and had the handles engraved with the girl’s first and last initial followed by his last initial. They met May 4th. They had one date. They married May 11th. They were married for over 40 years before the airman’s romantic heart gave out. I believe in the power and romance of the written word. It’s the whole reason I’m here. They airman was my Dad and the Alabama belle is my Mom.
What a wonderful post, Christina! I LOVE marriage of convenience stories as they always take such delightful twists and turns before they reach the HEA!
Mary Balogh’s Slightly Married comes to mind. And Lisa Kleypas’s Devil in Winter. And Julia Quinn’s To Sir Phillip with Love.
My favorite romance story, however, is the one about the young Pennsylvania airman stationed in Germany with two Alabama brothers. He spied a photo on one of the brothers’ desk and ask who the pretty girl was. They said “That’s no girl. That’s our sister!” It was the 50’s and girls often wrote to soldiers overseas as pen pals. The young airman asked permission to write to the girl. The brothers said sure, but assured him she wouldn’t write back. They were wrong. Over a period of a year the young airman and the Alabama belle wrote to each other, sometimes two and three times a week. At the end of the year the airman was shipped home to Pennsylvania. He stopped off to see his folks on May 3rd. They wanted to celebrate his birthday on May 4th, but he said he couldn’t. He was going to Alabama to meet a girl. He’d bought an engagement ring and matching wedding band in Germany. In England he’d bought an entire set of silver and had the handles engraved with the girl’s first and last initial followed by his last initial. They met May 4th. They had one date. They married May 11th. They were married for over 40 years before the airman’s romantic heart gave out. I believe in the power and romance of the written word. It’s the whole reason I’m here. They airman was my Dad and the Alabama belle is my Mom.
What a wonderful post, Christina! I LOVE marriage of convenience stories as they always take such delightful twists and turns before they reach the HEA!
Mary Balogh’s Slightly Married comes to mind. And Lisa Kleypas’s Devil in Winter. And Julia Quinn’s To Sir Phillip with Love.
My favorite romance story, however, is the one about the young Pennsylvania airman stationed in Germany with two Alabama brothers. He spied a photo on one of the brothers’ desk and ask who the pretty girl was. They said “That’s no girl. That’s our sister!” It was the 50’s and girls often wrote to soldiers overseas as pen pals. The young airman asked permission to write to the girl. The brothers said sure, but assured him she wouldn’t write back. They were wrong. Over a period of a year the young airman and the Alabama belle wrote to each other, sometimes two and three times a week. At the end of the year the airman was shipped home to Pennsylvania. He stopped off to see his folks on May 3rd. They wanted to celebrate his birthday on May 4th, but he said he couldn’t. He was going to Alabama to meet a girl. He’d bought an engagement ring and matching wedding band in Germany. In England he’d bought an entire set of silver and had the handles engraved with the girl’s first and last initial followed by his last initial. They met May 4th. They had one date. They married May 11th. They were married for over 40 years before the airman’s romantic heart gave out. I believe in the power and romance of the written word. It’s the whole reason I’m here. They airman was my Dad and the Alabama belle is my Mom.
What a wonderful post, Christina! I LOVE marriage of convenience stories as they always take such delightful twists and turns before they reach the HEA!
Mary Balogh’s Slightly Married comes to mind. And Lisa Kleypas’s Devil in Winter. And Julia Quinn’s To Sir Phillip with Love.
My favorite romance story, however, is the one about the young Pennsylvania airman stationed in Germany with two Alabama brothers. He spied a photo on one of the brothers’ desk and ask who the pretty girl was. They said “That’s no girl. That’s our sister!” It was the 50’s and girls often wrote to soldiers overseas as pen pals. The young airman asked permission to write to the girl. The brothers said sure, but assured him she wouldn’t write back. They were wrong. Over a period of a year the young airman and the Alabama belle wrote to each other, sometimes two and three times a week. At the end of the year the airman was shipped home to Pennsylvania. He stopped off to see his folks on May 3rd. They wanted to celebrate his birthday on May 4th, but he said he couldn’t. He was going to Alabama to meet a girl. He’d bought an engagement ring and matching wedding band in Germany. In England he’d bought an entire set of silver and had the handles engraved with the girl’s first and last initial followed by his last initial. They met May 4th. They had one date. They married May 11th. They were married for over 40 years before the airman’s romantic heart gave out. I believe in the power and romance of the written word. It’s the whole reason I’m here. They airman was my Dad and the Alabama belle is my Mom.
Hi Quilt Lady! Oh, yes, you can’t go wrong with Anna Campbell. I must try Emily March. I’ve heard good things about her. Thanks for commenting today!
Hi Quilt Lady! Oh, yes, you can’t go wrong with Anna Campbell. I must try Emily March. I’ve heard good things about her. Thanks for commenting today!
Hi Quilt Lady! Oh, yes, you can’t go wrong with Anna Campbell. I must try Emily March. I’ve heard good things about her. Thanks for commenting today!
Hi Quilt Lady! Oh, yes, you can’t go wrong with Anna Campbell. I must try Emily March. I’ve heard good things about her. Thanks for commenting today!
Hi Quilt Lady! Oh, yes, you can’t go wrong with Anna Campbell. I must try Emily March. I’ve heard good things about her. Thanks for commenting today!
Thank you for having me with you, Cara! I’ve had a great time.
Thank you for having me with you, Cara! I’ve had a great time.
Thank you for having me with you, Cara! I’ve had a great time.
Thank you for having me with you, Cara! I’ve had a great time.
Thank you for having me with you, Cara! I’ve had a great time.
Christina, thanks so much for visiting the Wenches! (I’m a tad behind in my welcome, but it’s been a busy week…)
I love your Ministry of Marriage set up. It might not be all of that far from the truth. *g*
I’ve always loved Jane Digby–she was one of the inspirations for my heroine in my Central Asian set book, Silk and Secrets. I’ve never known the detalis of the Lord March story, or understood how it came to pass, so that’s delicious! (I hope she punished him BIGTIME!!!)
I hope to see you NY at the St. Martin’s Press party!
Christina, thanks so much for visiting the Wenches! (I’m a tad behind in my welcome, but it’s been a busy week…)
I love your Ministry of Marriage set up. It might not be all of that far from the truth. *g*
I’ve always loved Jane Digby–she was one of the inspirations for my heroine in my Central Asian set book, Silk and Secrets. I’ve never known the detalis of the Lord March story, or understood how it came to pass, so that’s delicious! (I hope she punished him BIGTIME!!!)
I hope to see you NY at the St. Martin’s Press party!
Christina, thanks so much for visiting the Wenches! (I’m a tad behind in my welcome, but it’s been a busy week…)
I love your Ministry of Marriage set up. It might not be all of that far from the truth. *g*
I’ve always loved Jane Digby–she was one of the inspirations for my heroine in my Central Asian set book, Silk and Secrets. I’ve never known the detalis of the Lord March story, or understood how it came to pass, so that’s delicious! (I hope she punished him BIGTIME!!!)
I hope to see you NY at the St. Martin’s Press party!
Christina, thanks so much for visiting the Wenches! (I’m a tad behind in my welcome, but it’s been a busy week…)
I love your Ministry of Marriage set up. It might not be all of that far from the truth. *g*
I’ve always loved Jane Digby–she was one of the inspirations for my heroine in my Central Asian set book, Silk and Secrets. I’ve never known the detalis of the Lord March story, or understood how it came to pass, so that’s delicious! (I hope she punished him BIGTIME!!!)
I hope to see you NY at the St. Martin’s Press party!
Christina, thanks so much for visiting the Wenches! (I’m a tad behind in my welcome, but it’s been a busy week…)
I love your Ministry of Marriage set up. It might not be all of that far from the truth. *g*
I’ve always loved Jane Digby–she was one of the inspirations for my heroine in my Central Asian set book, Silk and Secrets. I’ve never known the detalis of the Lord March story, or understood how it came to pass, so that’s delicious! (I hope she punished him BIGTIME!!!)
I hope to see you NY at the St. Martin’s Press party!
Thank you for a great post. I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories but preferably with a twist. Perhaps a grand adventure for the hero/heroine, something so that in a short time their respective strengths and flaws are discovered. Chemistry is also important.
A classic is Judith McNaught’s Whitney, My Love. It’s more of an arranged marriage than one of convenience but the intesity and passion between the characters is why they are so beloved.
Thank you for a great post. I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories but preferably with a twist. Perhaps a grand adventure for the hero/heroine, something so that in a short time their respective strengths and flaws are discovered. Chemistry is also important.
A classic is Judith McNaught’s Whitney, My Love. It’s more of an arranged marriage than one of convenience but the intesity and passion between the characters is why they are so beloved.
Thank you for a great post. I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories but preferably with a twist. Perhaps a grand adventure for the hero/heroine, something so that in a short time their respective strengths and flaws are discovered. Chemistry is also important.
A classic is Judith McNaught’s Whitney, My Love. It’s more of an arranged marriage than one of convenience but the intesity and passion between the characters is why they are so beloved.
Thank you for a great post. I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories but preferably with a twist. Perhaps a grand adventure for the hero/heroine, something so that in a short time their respective strengths and flaws are discovered. Chemistry is also important.
A classic is Judith McNaught’s Whitney, My Love. It’s more of an arranged marriage than one of convenience but the intesity and passion between the characters is why they are so beloved.
Thank you for a great post. I do enjoy marriage of convenience stories but preferably with a twist. Perhaps a grand adventure for the hero/heroine, something so that in a short time their respective strengths and flaws are discovered. Chemistry is also important.
A classic is Judith McNaught’s Whitney, My Love. It’s more of an arranged marriage than one of convenience but the intesity and passion between the characters is why they are so beloved.
One from my collection of favorites:
“Duchess In Disguise,” June 1979, Caroline Courtney’s first Regency romance for Warner books, features achetype arranged marriage (as between Lady Sarah Cadgan & Lord March, later 2nd Duke of Richmond,) and Cinderella story, including non-fairy non-God-mother and non-God-father to help the heroine achieve her goals in this love story.
This marriage of convenience, heroine transformation by love for the hero (as transformed, redeemed by love,) story I love so deeply that I keep other authors’ inventive romance with similiar themes.
Imagine if this were made into a dramatic TV series women would love it?
One from my collection of favorites:
“Duchess In Disguise,” June 1979, Caroline Courtney’s first Regency romance for Warner books, features achetype arranged marriage (as between Lady Sarah Cadgan & Lord March, later 2nd Duke of Richmond,) and Cinderella story, including non-fairy non-God-mother and non-God-father to help the heroine achieve her goals in this love story.
This marriage of convenience, heroine transformation by love for the hero (as transformed, redeemed by love,) story I love so deeply that I keep other authors’ inventive romance with similiar themes.
Imagine if this were made into a dramatic TV series women would love it?
One from my collection of favorites:
“Duchess In Disguise,” June 1979, Caroline Courtney’s first Regency romance for Warner books, features achetype arranged marriage (as between Lady Sarah Cadgan & Lord March, later 2nd Duke of Richmond,) and Cinderella story, including non-fairy non-God-mother and non-God-father to help the heroine achieve her goals in this love story.
This marriage of convenience, heroine transformation by love for the hero (as transformed, redeemed by love,) story I love so deeply that I keep other authors’ inventive romance with similiar themes.
Imagine if this were made into a dramatic TV series women would love it?
One from my collection of favorites:
“Duchess In Disguise,” June 1979, Caroline Courtney’s first Regency romance for Warner books, features achetype arranged marriage (as between Lady Sarah Cadgan & Lord March, later 2nd Duke of Richmond,) and Cinderella story, including non-fairy non-God-mother and non-God-father to help the heroine achieve her goals in this love story.
This marriage of convenience, heroine transformation by love for the hero (as transformed, redeemed by love,) story I love so deeply that I keep other authors’ inventive romance with similiar themes.
Imagine if this were made into a dramatic TV series women would love it?
One from my collection of favorites:
“Duchess In Disguise,” June 1979, Caroline Courtney’s first Regency romance for Warner books, features achetype arranged marriage (as between Lady Sarah Cadgan & Lord March, later 2nd Duke of Richmond,) and Cinderella story, including non-fairy non-God-mother and non-God-father to help the heroine achieve her goals in this love story.
This marriage of convenience, heroine transformation by love for the hero (as transformed, redeemed by love,) story I love so deeply that I keep other authors’ inventive romance with similiar themes.
Imagine if this were made into a dramatic TV series women would love it?