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Pride and Prejudice: A Rose by Any Other Name…

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, Jane Austen Merchandise, tagged Jane Austen, Jane Austen Merchandise, Jane Austen Rose, Pride and Prejudice, Pride and Prejudice Bicentenary, Pride and Prejudice Rose on 1 May 2013 | 11 Comments »

As an avid gardener and Jane Austen enthusiast, I have been waiting patiently for this…a rose named after one of my favorite novels, Pride and Prejudice!

It was inevitable that some rose breeder would cash in on the Pride and Prejudice bicentenary. I am just surprised it took them so long to name a rose after one of the novels or characters created by my favorite author Jane Austen.

Huzzah! Just announced by Harkness, a specialist rose growers in the UK, Pride and Prejudice, a floribunda rose in pale peach. WOW! Here is the description:

Pride and Prejudice

Family: Floribunda
Star Rating: 5
Scent Rating: 4
Flower Diameter: 8cm
Petals: 35
Flowers Per Cluster: 7-11
Plant Size: H90cm x W60cm
Colour: Pale Peach

We are delighted to introduce the new Pride and Prejudice rose, to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen’s classic book. The detail and characters are so well constructed in the book, the dialogue so elegant with scenes capturing the essence of the period.

Not sure if they ship to the US, but it is great to know that someone FINALLY named a rose after the most popular classic in literary history.

For those who want to continue on the P&P rose theme, here is something fascinatingly creative…a paper rose made from the pages of Pride and Prejudice.

Etsy artist HBixbyArtworks has cleverly crafted roses from paper, and in this case from the pages of Pride and Prejudice. Imagine a bouquet of P&P paper roses? Stunning! Artists description:

This listing is for one vintage book paper rose which is about 3- 3.5″ in diameter. This paper rose is fashioned from the pages of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, (which is a very popular book,) and I made several dozen paper flowers from it!

The rose is on a 8″ wire stem, so can be put into a vase, or can be made into a brooch for a small extra charge, or you can buy several and have a whole bouquet!

A complimentary ribbon can be tied around the stem upon request :)

P&P roses and ribbons? How delightful!

AND…who could forget the Pride and Prejudice cover resplendent with roses by Harper Teen from 2009? It is eerily familiar to the designs for the Twilight book covers, but I think that was the point…to entice younger readers to read the classic mentioned by Bella and Edward.

For those not lucky enough to be a climate where the roses are already blooming, like the rose garden at my favorite place in the world (so far), The Huntington Library and Gardens in San Marino, California. This photo of their famous rose garden, where I have spent many happy hours enjoying the sights and scents, is a delight. Hope you can visit there too!

Happy May Day Janeites!

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

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Giveaway Winners Announced for Jane Austen Birthday Soirée 2012

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Books, Giveaways, Jane Austen, Jane Austen Birthday Soiree, Jane Austen Made Me Do It, Reading, Swag, Syrie James, The Missing Manuscript of Jane Austen on 20 December 2012 | 1 Comment »

Austen Soirée

47 of you left comments qualifying you for a chance to win one copy of Jane Austen Made Me Do It and one copy of The Missing Manuscript of Jane Austen offered during the Jane Austen Birthday Soirée 2012. The winners drawn at random are:

Jane Austen Made Me Do It

Sofia Guerra who left a comment on December 16, 2012

The Missing Manuscript of Jane Austen

Bookfool, aka Nancy who left a comment on December 18, 2012

Congratulations ladies! To claim your prize, please contact me with your full name and address by December 27, 2012. Shipment to US addresses only.

Many thanks to Maria of My Jane Austen Book Club for organizing the Jane Austen Birthday Soiree, and to author Syrie James and her publisher Berkley Trade for the giveaway copy of The Missing Manuscript of Jane Austen. Happy reading to the winners!

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Jane Austen Birthday Soirée 2013: Celebrating A Plan of a Novel

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Giveaways, Jane Austen, Jane Austen Birthday Soiree, Jane Austen Made Me Do It, My Jane Austen Book Club, The Missing Manuscript of Jane Austen on 16 December 2012 | 49 Comments »

Jane Austen Birthday Soirée (2012) Today, December 16th, is Jane Austen’s birthday. 237 years ago she was born at Steventon Rectory in Hampshire, England.

In celebration of my favorite author, I am participating in the Jane Austen Birthday Soiree being hosted by Maria at My Jane Austen Book Club blog. It is basically a blog hop with many great giveaways being offered. Each blog will feature a favorite passage from one of Austen’s works.

For your enjoyment, I have selected a short piece that exemplifies Austen’s humor, one her many talents that I am particularly fond of. A Plan of a Novel was written in 1816, probably in response to Austen’s visit to Carlton House in London with the Prince Regent’s librarian Rev. James Stanier Clarke and their subsequent correspondence in which he offers advice to the author on the subject of her next novel; and her family’s advice on the same subject! It is a parody, similar to her exuberant and fantastical Juvenilia, and her early novel Northanger Abbey, satirizing what was outrageous in the popular literature of her day. Interestingly, she also including notes in the margins indicating which of her family members made the suggestions!

The manuscript of Plan of a Novel now resides at The Morgan Library & Museum in New York City. You can view an image of the original document of A Plan of a Novel online at their website.

Plan of a Novel, according to hints from various quarters, by Jane Austen

Scene be in the Country, Heroine the Daughter of a Clergyman, one who after having lived much in the World had retired from it and settled in a Curacy, with a very small fortune of his own. — He, the most excellent Man that can be imagined, perfect in Character, Temper, and Manners — without the smallest drawback or peculiarity to prevent his being the most delightful companion to his Daughter from one year’s end to the other. — Heroine a faultless Character herself, — perfectly good, with much tenderness and sentiment, and not the least Wit — very highly accomplished, understanding modern Languages and (generally speaking) everything that the most accomplished young Women learn, but particularly excelling in Music — her favourite pursuit — and playing equally well on the PianoForte and Harp — and singing in the first stile. Her Person quite beautiful — dark eyes and plump cheeks. — Book to open with the description of Father and Daughter — who are to converse in long speeches, elegant Language — and a tone of high serious sentiment. — The Father to be induced, at his Daughter’s earnest request, to relate to her the past events of his Life. This Narrative will reach through the greatest part of the first volume — as besides all the circumstances of his attachment to her Mother and their Marriage, it will comprehend his going to sea as Chaplain to a distinguished naval character about the Court, his going afterwards to Court himself, which introduced him to a great variety of Characters and involved him in many interesting situations, concluding with his opinions on the Benefits to result from Tithes being done away, and his having buried his own Mother (Heroine’s lamented Grandmother) in consequence of the High Priest of the Parish in which she died refusing to pay her Remains the respect due to them. The Father to be of a very literary turn, an Enthusiast in Literature, nobody’s Enemy but his own — at the same time most zealous in discharge of his Pastoral Duties, the model of an exemplary Parish Priest. — The heroine’s friendship to be sought after by a young woman in the same Neighbourhood, of Talents and Shrewdness, with light eyes and a fair skin, but having a considerable degree of Wit, Heroine shall shrink from the acquaintance.

From this outset, the Story will proceed, and contain a striking variety of adventures. Heroine and her Father never above a fortnight together in one place, he being driven from his Curacy by the vile arts of some totally unprincipled and heart-less young Man, desperately in love with the Heroine, and pursuing her with unrelenting passion. — No sooner settled in one Country of Europe than they are necessitated to quit it and retire to another — always making new acquaintance, and always obliged to leave them. — This will of course exhibit a wide variety of Characters — but there will be no mixture; the scene will be for ever shifting from one Set of People to another — but All the Good will be unexceptionable in every respect — and there will be no foibles or weaknesses but with the Wicked, who will be completely depraved and infamous, hardly a resemblance of humanity left in them. — Early in her career, in the progress of her first removals, Heroine must meet with the Hero — all perfection of course — and only prevented from paying his addresses to her by some excess of refinement. — Wherever she goes, somebody falls in love with her, and she receives repeated offers of Marriage — which she refers wholly to her Father, exceedingly angry that he should not be first applied to. — Often carried away by the anti-hero, but rescued either by her Father or by the Hero — often reduced to support herself and her Father by her Talents and work for her Bread; continually cheated and defrauded of her hire, worn down to a Skeleton, and now and then starved to death. — At last, hunted out of civilized Society, denied the poor Shelter of the humblest Cottage, they are compelled to retreat into Kamschatka where the poor Father, quite worn down, finding his end approaching, throws himself on the Ground, and after 4 or 5 hours of tender advice and parental Admonition to his miserable Child, expires in a fine burst of Literary Enthusiasm, intermingled with Invectives against holders of Tithes. — Heroine inconsolable for some time — but afterwards crawls back towards her former Country — having at least 20 narrow escapes from falling into the hands of the Anti-hero — and at last in the very nick of time, turning a corner to avoid him, runs into the arms of the Hero himself, who having just shaken off the scruples which fetter’d him before, was at the very moment setting off in pursuit of her. — The Tenderest and completest Eclaircissement takes place, and they are happily united. — Throughout the whole work, Heroine to be in the most elegant Society and living in high style. The name of the work not to be Emma, but of the same sort as S. & S. and P. & P.

End

If this bit of joyful burlesque amusement made you smile, you might want to pre-order Syrie James’ new novel The Missing Manuscript of Jane Austen to be released on December 31, 2012. This new novel was inspired by Jane Austen’s Plan of a Novel. You can read my preview here. I have read Ms. James’ new work and it is indeed a clever incorporation of Austen humor, romance and biting wit.

A GRAND GIVEAWAY

Now gentle readers, in celebration of our favorite author please leave a comment sharing your favorite Austen novel, novella, or minor work to qualify for a chance to win one copy each of Jane Austen Made Me Do It and The Missing Manuscript of Jane Austen. The contest is open to US residents and ends on December 18^th, 2012 at 11:59 pm Pacific time. Winner to be announced on Thursday, December 20^th, 2012. Good luck to all, and Happy Birthday Jane!

Please visit the other participants in The Jane Austen Birthday Soirée 2013 by clicking on the links to their blogs listed below. Have fun!

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A Grateful Thanksgiving from Jane Austen

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Jane Austen, Jane Austen's Prayers, Regency Dinning, Thanksgiving on 22 November 2012 | 9 Comments »

Wishing all of my readers, and Janeites in the US, a very happy Thanksgiving day with your friends, family and fur fellows.

Jane Austen did not celebrate this American holiday in her lifetime, nor did she know of it. For one, she was an Englishwoman and the holiday was not an official annual tradition in the US until 1863, when, during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national day of “Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.” She did however write this thanksgiving prayer which I find quite fitting.

Give us a thankful sense of the blessings in which we live, of the many comforts of our lot; that we may not deserve to lose them by discontent or indifference. Hear us almighty God, for his sake who has redeemed us, and taught us thus to pray. Amen. – Jane Austen, Prayer I

I am very grateful for many blessings this holiday – and especially thankful of all of my fellow reviewers here on Austenprose: Christina, Kimberly, Jeffrey, Aia, Bro. Paul, Shelley, Lucy and Lisa. Your dedication, generosity of time, and writing skills are greatly appreciated by me and many. Thank you!

And last, but certainly not least, I am very thankful of the works of Jane Austen, whose author has given me many hours of enjoyment, admiration and inspiration!

Have a wonderful holiday everyone!

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

Related posts:

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Austenprose Celebrates a Five Year Blogoversary

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Austenprose. Reading, Books, Jane Austen, Movies, Pop Culture on 29 October 2012 | 62 Comments »

Yes, Dear Reader. Today is Austenprose’s five year anniversary. Huzzah!

I can’t believe I have been blogging about Jane Austen and her world for five years, but there it is. Time has truly flown by while we have been having a lot of fun dishing about Jane Austen and the many books, movies and the pop culture she has inspired.

I can’t take all the credit and have much to be grateful for. My current group of book reviewers can all step forward and take a bow too: Christina Boyd, Kimberly Denny Ryder, Shelley DeWees, Br. Paul Byrd, OP, Jeffrey Ward, Aia H. Y., Laura Wallace and Lisa Galek. What an incredibly gifted team you are. Together we have reviewed 320 Jane Austen or Regency-inspired novels and nonfiction books. That is an amazing accomplishment and I thank you.

If you are curious about numbers, here are a few facts:

Total posts: 1,233
Total comments: 17,859
Total followers: 986
Total unique visitors: 1,883,171

When I started Austenprose on a whim on Oct 29, 2007, I never really expected much more than the personal gratification of writing about a topic that I love. The rewards of my efforts have been amazing. Not only have I learned more and have a greater respect for my favorite author, but I have made incredible friends online, some of whom I have also met in person, and published a short story anthology, Jane Austen Made Me Do It, all because I took the plunge and began a blog.

Many thanks to all of my review team, my Janeite friends, my publisher Random House and to you gentle reader, who have been so generous with your time and loyalty.

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

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Austen in August Times Two

Posted in Austenesque Authors, Austenesque Books, Jane Austen Inspired, Jane Austen Made Me Do It, tagged Austenesque Extravaganza, Blog Events, Giveaways, Jane Austen, Jane Austen Events, Jane Austen Sequels, Roof Beam Reader, Swag, The Book Rat on 21 August 2012 | 3 Comments »

Wow! Two great Austen-inspired events are in progress this month to celebrate our favorite author.

Misty at The Book Rat is offering her annual fete in honor of Jane called Austen in August. Previously called Jane in June, readers will remember from past years that she puts on a great blog event featuring a read-along of an Austen novel and guest blogs from other Austen loving bloggers and Austenesque authors. I will be featured on Monday, August 27 answering the question:

A lot of readers – as much as they may love the books – are bothered by some of the pairings (think Marianne and Brandon, or Fanny and Edmund); are there any Austen couples you think are going to have a rocky road ahead of them?

There are tons of great giveaway chances for fabulous Austen-inspired stuff including a chance to win a copy of my short story anthology, Jane Austen Made Me Do It. The event ends August 31, 2012, so make haste and check it out!

Adam at Roof Beam Reader is also highlighting our dear Jane this month with, you guessed it, Austen in August. Focused on all things Jane Austen, the event includes her primary texts, any re-imaginings of her works, biographies, critical texts, etc. So, basically all things Austen all the time! *squee*

Gracious book blogger Adam has a lot of things planned for his Austen-inspired month-long event including giveaways, guest posts, and, of course, his own reading and reviewing of Jane Austen works. Be sure to check it out and read an Austen novel or sequel or two this month.

In addition, here is an advance mention of my preview post next week of Meredith’s incredible blog event next month, Austenesque Extravaganza. This is her second annual Austen-inspired event at her blog Austenesque Reviews featuring daily posts with themes like: Sociable Sunday, Matchmaker Monday, Traveling Tuesday, Wednesday Word Games, Touring Thursday, Fan and Games Friday and Spotlight Saturday. I will be featured on Tuesday, September 18th, but I am sworn to secrecy about what I am writing about! I can reveal that there will be a chance to win one of three copies of Jane Austen Made Me Do it for participants, so be sure to please mark your calendars so you don’t miss out.

So much Austen fun out there Janeites! Go to it!

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

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Jane Austen’s Rogues & Romance Official Trailer

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Facebook, Jane Austen, Jane Austen Games, Rogues and Romance on 13 July 2012 | 7 Comments »

It’s here! The release of the new Facebook game for Janeite’s…Rogues and Romance. WOW!!!!

Enjoy!!!

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Follow Friday: Signet Classics 16th Annual Student Scholarship Essay Contest Inspired by Jane Austen’s Emma

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Essay Contest, Jane Austen, Signet Classics on 16 March 2012 | 2 Comments »

Here is great news for budding young writers. US high school juniors and seniors are eligible to enter the Signet Classics 16th Annual Student Scholarship Essay Contest for a chance to win $1,000 award prize!

This year’s competition book is Jane Austen’s Emma. Essays must be based on the five topic selected by Signet. Here are the details from the official contest website:

Topics

Select one of the following five topics:

In the “Introduction” to the Signet edition, Margaret Drabble writes: When Jane Austen embarked on her novel Emma, she is said to have said, “I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like.” (pp. v) What is there about Emma that people might not like? Give specific examples from the novel. How does this reflect your own opinion about Emma? Explain.
Will Emma and Mr. Knightley be happy once they are married and settled? What passages in the novel led you to this conclusion? What differences or conflicts in these characters might lead to stress or dissatisfaction in their union?
Curiously, four of the major characters, Emma, Frank, Jane and Harriet, are children raised by surrogate parents. How do you think their family situations influence them as adults? Consider their personalities, behavior, values, relationships. Choose at least two of these characters and discuss the ways their backgrounds influence the course they take in the novel. Use specific details.
Emma experiences several painful events and realizations that alter her understanding of herself and jolt her out of her complacency. Discuss three or four of the most important events which trigger her development into a mature and compassionate young woman from a clever but self-centered adolescent.
The Victorian writers who followed Jane Austen later in the nineteenth century often depicted a dramatic range of social classes. In contrast, Austen’s focus in Emma is more narrow, essentially only depicting the middle class since none of the characters are either extremely wealthy or extremely poor. Nevertheless like the larger outside world, the society is quite rigidly stratified. How is community depicted? What defines each group economically, culturally and socially?

Be sure to check out the Official Rules for 16th Annual Signet Classics Student Scholarship Essay Contest and read the winning essays from the 15th Annual Contest.

The deadline to submit your essay is April 13, 2012 so don’t delay. Best of luck to all you budding Janeites in the US.

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

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Follow Friday: Jane Austen’s Regency World March/April 2012 Preview

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, Jane Austen Merchandise, tagged Jane Austen, Jane Austen's World Magazine on 2 March 2012 | 2 Comments »

Hot off the presses is the March/April (No 56) edition of Jane Austen’s Regency World magazine, the ultimate Austen reading indulgence. Here are the featured articles!

Romance of the East: how the Regency travelers of Jane Austen’s time were fascinated by Islam and the Orient
In Jane Austen’s footsteps: enjoy our tour of Chawton village
Best-selling novelist Karen Doornebos asks why grown women swoon over Darcy
How Charles Dickens, the bicentenary of whose birth is celebrated this year, was influenced by Jane Austen’s contemporaries
Frances Burney’s experiences with the Royal Family
Jane Austen’s nieces in Ireland – the amazing true story of May, Lou and Cass
Finding the fools in Northanger Abbey

Plus the Jane Austen Society, JASNA, the latest Austen news, letters and book reviews. You can download a free preview article here.

Watch out for your copy in the mail – or subscribe at the Jane Austen’s Regency World website.

Can’t wait for my copy to arrive.

Happy TGIF everyone!

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

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New Jane Austen-inspired Facebook Game Announced by the BBC & Legacy Interactive

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, Jane Austen Merchandise, tagged BBC, BBC Worldwide Digital Entertainment & Games, Jane Austen, Jane Austen Games, Jane Austen Merchandise, Lecacy Interactive, Pride and Prejudice on 24 February 2012 | 16 Comments »

Happy news for Janeites and gaming fans…

The venerable BBC, who have brought us the monumental mini-series of Pride and Prejudice in 1995 and 1980 and many other classic film adaptations, announced today that they will be releasing a new Jane Austen-inspired interactive game, Rogues and Romance, for Facebook next month.

Developed in partnership with Legacy Interactive, the game will re-create the world of Austen’s novels “allowing players to take part in an imaginative adventure that follows the path of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy after they are married.”

I had the pleasure of meeting Legacy Interactive CEO Ariella Lehrer last December at the JASNA Southwest’s Winter Symposium in Los Angeles. She is a true Janeite and thrilled to translate her secret obsession into a fun social game. “We are determined to deliver an experience that passionate Austen fans will love, as well as gameplayers who know of Austen but have never read her novels.”

Robert Nashak, EVP, BBC Worldwide Digital Entertainment & Games, explains, “Social interaction is at the core of Austen’s work and we felt that was a concept we could explore that had a natural synergy with Facebook. Rogues and Romance is a fun romp of a game that celebrates the world of Jane Austen.”

I think it is a brilliant notion and if you do to, Legacy Interactive is giving Austenprose readers an incredible opportunity to be one of the first group of players to experience Rogues and Romance first hand during a “closed beta” testing period.

You will have the opportunity to “test drive” the new interactive game “which takes Pride and Prejudice as its starting point following the newly married Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy on a hidden object adventure with an intriguing twist. Players will be able to take their place in society leaving calling cards, attending and hosting receptions and pursuing courtships. Each player will have their own manor house and be able to indulge their penchant for fashion with a choice of Regency-era costumes.” Your feedback will only make this game even better before its official launch next month.

Yep, you heard it first on Austenprose, so do visit the official website for Rogues and Romance, and then email betatester@legacyinteractive.com with the email address that you use for your Facebook account if you are interested in participating. Please put in the subject “Jane Austen Facebook game beta test.”

We shall see who really knows their Jane Austen, and who needs a refresher course.

Enjoy!

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

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The Sense and Sensibility Bicentenary Celebration at My Jane Austen Book Club Concludes

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Jane Austen, Jane Austen Films, Jane Austen Novles, Jane Austen Sequels, My Jane Austen Book Club, The Sense and Sensibility Bicentenary Celebration on 27 December 2011 | 4 Comments »

For those following the Sense and Sensibility Bicentenary Celebration at My Jane Austen Book Club, featuring monthly contributions by Austen bloggers and authors through the year in honor of the 200th anniversary of the publication of Sense and Sensibility, I had the honor of the final post, Marianne Dashwood: A Passion for Dead Leaves and other Sensibilities.

When Maria invited me to join the celebration, I especially requested to be the last contributor because I wanted to talk about Marianne Dashwood, Jane Austen’s young, emotional and “sensible” co-heroine. She should have the last word – and I think I have given her a strong finish with quotes from the novel exemplifying her personality and position. We may not always agree with Marianne and her emotional outbursts, but she makes a very entertaining heroine.

Here are the monthly contributions to the celebration

January: Men, Marriage, and Money in Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility by Jennifer Becton
February: Sense and Sensibility on Film, by Alexa Adams
March: Property and Inheritance Law in Sense and Sensibility, by C. Allyn Pierson
April: Lost in Sense and Sensibility, by Beth Pattillo
May: Willoughby: A Rogue on Trail, by Jane Odiwe
June: Secrets in Sense and Sensibility, by Deborah Barnum
July: An Interview with Lucy Steele, by Laurie Viera Rigler
August: Settling for the Compromise Marriage, by Regina Jeffers
September: Tracing the Roots of Sense and Sensibility, by Lynn Shepherd
October: Sense and Sensibility Fan Fiction, by Meredith Esparza
November: Mr. Palmer Discuses his Fellow Minor Characters, by Vic Sanborn
December: Marianne Dashwood: A Passion for Dead Leaves and other Sensibilities, by Laurel Ann Nattress

Check out my essay and leave a comment on the post at My Jane Austen Book Club to enter a chance to win a signed (by me) copy of Jane Austen Made Me Do It, my new Jane Austen-inspired short story anthology just released in October by Ballantine Books. The contest is open through December 31st, 2011. Good Luck!

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

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The Many Lovers of Miss Jane Austen Airs in the UK

Posted in Jane Austen in the News, Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Amanda Vickery, Jane Austen, Lost portrait of Jane Austen?, Paula Byrne, The Many Lovers of Miss Jane Austen on 24 December 2011 | 7 Comments »

Historian and television celebrity Amanda Vickery’s documentary on the fandom of Jane Austen aired in the UK yesterday on BBC. The Many Lovers of Miss Jane Austen contains Vickery’s observations on Austen’s fame with interviews of scholars and fans.

To mark the 200th anniversary of the publication of Jane Austen’s first novel, Sense and Sensibility, Amanda Vickery explores the writer’s fluctuating popularity and the hold her fiction has on readers today. She talks to literary scholars, film directors and costumed devotees at Austen conventions to consider why the plots and characters continue to delight, amuse, console and provoke, argues that different generations see their own reflections in the stories, and watches a rare, handwritten manuscript of an unfinished Austen novel go under the hammer at Sotheby’s. Featuring contributions by Andrew Davies, Charles Spencer and Howard Jacobson.

I attended the Jane Austen Society of North America’s AGM in Fort Worth, Texas last October and had the pleasure of meeting Prof. Vickery.

She was there with a full film crew to record many of the events during the conference including speaker Andrew Davies, the screenwriter of the A&E/BBC miniseries of Pride and Prejudice (1995) and many other Austen film adaptations, and interviews of some of the attendees. Two of my fellow Puget Sound JASNA members are featured in the documentary: Mary Laney and Kimberly Brangwin. Here’s a clip:

No news yet if The Many Lovers of Miss Jane Austen will air on North American or elsewhere, but this highly anticipated documentary is only rivaled by another BBC documentary, Jane Austen: The Unseen Portrait? which airs on the BBC on December 26th, 2011 in the UK. Geesh. Us US Janeites have to wait (or have other illegal resources) to see everything good on this side of the pond.

Jane Austen is one of the most celebrated writers of all time but apart from a rough sketch by her sister Cassandra, we have very little idea what she looked like. Biographer Dr Paula Byrne thinks that is about to change. She believes she has come across a possible portrait of the author, lost to the world for nearly two centuries. Can the picture stand up to forensic analysis and scrutiny by art historians and world leading Austen experts? How might it change our image of the author? And what might the portrait reveal about Jane Austen and her world? Martha Kearney seeks answers as she follows Dr Byrne on her quest.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

Woodston Cottage

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Winners Announced in the Jane Austen Birthday Soiree Giveaway!

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Giveaways, Jane Austen, Swag on 22 December 2011 | 14 Comments »

118 of you left comments in the Jane Austen Birthday Soiree qualifying you for a chance to win an assortment of Jane Austen, and Austen-inspired books and note cards. The winners drawn at random are:

Jane Austen Made Me Do It, edited by Laurel Ann Nattress (signed) – KatrinaKate who left a comment on December 16, 2011

Austen-inspired notecards by JennyDidIt – Felicia who left a comment on December 16, 2011

Jane Austen’s Letters 3rd edition, collected and edited by Deirdre Le Faye – Jen M. who left a comment on December 20, 2011

A Jane Austen Education, by William Deresiewicz (signed) – Nadia K. who left a comment on December 17, 2011

Oxford World’s Classic Northanger Abbey, Lady Susan, The Watsons and Sanditon, by Jane Austen – Else Tennessen who left a comment on December 16, 2011

The Jane Austen Book Club, by Karen Joy Fowler (signed) – Susan who left a comment on December 17, 2011

Penguin Classics Emma, by Jane Austen – Syrie James who left a comment on December 22, 2011

Penguin Classics Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen – Janet who left a comment on December 16, 2011

Penguin Classics Mansfield Park, by Jane Austen – Joanna Y. who left a comment on December 18, 2011

Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen - Linda B. who left a comment on December 20, 2011

Darcy and Elizabeth, by Linda Berdol – Claire who left a comment on December 19, 2011

Jane and the Prisoner of Wool House: Being a Jane Austen Mystery, by Stephanie Barron – JaneGS who left a comment on December 16, 2011

Lady of Quality & Charity Girl, by Georgette Heyer – Becky C. who left a comment on December 16, 2011

Jane Austen Note Cards, by Potter Style – Heather M. who left a comment on December 16, 2011

Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters, by Jane Austen and Ben H. Winters – Ashley G. who left a comment on December 20, 2011

Pemberley by the Sea, by Abigail Reynolds – Erlynn Kirsch who left a comment on December 16, 2011

Jane Goes Batty, by Michael Thomas Ford – Mary Augusta Thomas who left a comment on December 16, 2011

Mr. Darcy Goes Overboard, by Belinda Roberts – Ellen SG who left a comment on December 16, 2011

Expectations of Happiness, by Rebecca Ann Collins – Danielle who left a comment on December 16, 2011

Wickham’s Diary, by Amanda Grange – Lisa Mellon Wagner who left a copy on December 16, 2011

Congratulations to all of the twenty winners. To claim your prize, please contact me with the name of the item you won in the subject line, and your full name and address in the body of the email by December 28, 2011. Shipment is to US and Canadian addresses only.

Thanks to all who left comments, and for all those participating in the Austen Birthday Soiree across the blogosphere.

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

Woodston Cottage

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Beach Blanket Northanger Abbey

Posted in Austenesque Authors, Austenesque Books, Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Jane Austen, Jane Austen Adaptations, Marvel Comics, Northanger Abbey on 20 December 2011 | 6 Comments »

We loved the cover of Marvel Comics Northanger Abbey #1. Catherine Morland looks intense and Gothic.

Northanger Abbey #2 was just released on December 14th, 2011. We are a bit puzzled by the artists new direction.

Our first impression was that Henry Tilney and Catherine Morland had morphed into Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello from the Beach Blanket movies! I have seen Austen’s characters dressed in unusual and non-period attire before, but never with a bouffant 1960′s hairdo. Even the Sense and Sensibility from 1971 does not rival this audacity.

This new comic book series is brought to you by Adapter: Nancy Butler, Penciller: Janet Lee, Penciller (cover): Julian Totino Tedesco, Colorist: Nick Filardi, Letterer: Jeff Eckleberry, Editor: Sana Amanat.

One wonders out loud, if this is a wild fluke or intentional???

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

Woodston Cottage

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Austenprose’s Jane Austen Birthday Soiree – December 16, 2011 – with tons of Giveaways!

Posted in Austenesque Authors, Austenesque Books, Jane Austen Inspired, Jane Austen Quotes, Jane Austen's Letters, Jane Austen's Works, tagged Books, Fiction, Giveaways, Jane Austen, Jane Austen's Birthday, Jane Austen's Letters, Swag on 16 December 2011 | 120 Comments »

HAPPY 236th BIRTHDAY JANE AUSTEN!

Welcome to our contribution to the Austen’s Birthday Soiree!

We are participating in the Austen’s Birthday Soiree, hosted by Katherine Cox of November’s Autumn & Maria Grazia of My Jane Austen Book Club. The daylong blog hop will feature a post in celebration of Jane Austen, her life, her novels and the era in which she lived at each of the 31 blogs!

Our Tribute to her Letters

The fourth edition of Jane Austen’s Letters, collected and edited by Deirdre Le Faye was just released in October in the UK and December in the US by the good folks at Oxford University Press. It has some new additions to the text, including a new preface by Le Faye, subject index (huzzah), but sadly no new letters were discovered. What remains of her correspondence is all here – and for those who have not delved beyond her prose, her letters might surprise you. They start in 1796 and continue until her death in 1817.

Here are some choice quotes from her letters:

Here I am once more in this scene of dissipation and vice, and I begin already to find my morals corrupted. 23 August 1796

What dreadful hot weather we have! It keeps one in a continual state of inelegance. 18 September 1796

Next week I shall begin my operations on my hat, on which you know my principal hopes of happiness depend. 27 October 1798

I do not want people to be very agreeable, as it saves me the trouble of liking them a great deal. 24 December 1798

You deserve a longer letter than this; but it is my unhappy fate seldom to treat people so well as they deserve. 24 December 1798

We have been exceedingly busy ever since you went away. In the first place we have had to rejoice two or three times everyday at your having such very delightful weather for the whole of your journey. 25 November 1800

You will have a great deal of unreserved discourse with Mrs. K., I dare say, upon this subject, as well as upon many other of our family matters. Abuse everybody but me. 07 January 1807

I begin already to weigh my words and sentences more than I did, and am looking about for a sentiment, an illustration, or a metaphor in every corner of the room. Could my Ideas flow as fast as the rain in the Storecloset it would be charming. 24 January 1809

How horrible it is to have so many people killed! And what a blessing that one cares for none of them! 31 May 1811

I will not say that your mulberry-trees are dead, but I am afraid they are not alive. 31 May 1811

I could not sit seriously down to write a serious romance under any other motive than to save my life; and if it were indispensable for me to keep it up and never relax into laughing at myself or at other people, I am sure I should be hung before I had finished the first chapter. 01 April 1816

The little bit (two inches wide) of ivory on which I work with so fine a brush as produces little effect after much labour. 16 December 1816

Single Women have a dreadful propensity for being poor—which is one very strong argument in favour of Matrimony. 13 March 1817

SUPER SPECTACULAR JANE AUSTEN BOOK GIVEAWAY!

In celebration of Jane Austen’s birthday, we are offering readers a chance to win twenty Austen items:

Jane Austen Made Me Do It, edited by Laurel Ann Nattress (signed)
Austen-inspired notecards by JennyDidIt
Jane Austen’s Letters 3^rd edition, collected and edited by Deirdre Le Faye
A Jane Austen Education, by William Deresiewicz (signed)
Oxford World’s Classic Northanger Abbey, Lady Susan, The Watsons and Sanditon, by Jane Austen
The Jane Austen Book Club, by Karen Joy Fowler (signed)
Penguin Classics Emma, by Jane Austen
Penguin Classics Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen
Penguin Classics Mansfield Park, by Jane Austen
Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen
Darcy and Elizabeth, by Linda Berdol
Jane and the Prisoner of Wool House: Being a Jane Austen Mystery, by Stephanie Barron
Lady of Quality & Charity Girl, by Georgette Heyer
Jane Austen Note Cards, by Potter Style

And…just for the heck of it…advance reading copies of:

Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters, by Jane Austen and Ben H. Winters
Pemberley by the Sea, by Abigail Reynolds
Jane Goes Batty, by Michael Thomas Ford
Mr. Darcy Goes Overboard, by Belinda Roberts
Expectations of Happiness, by Rebecca Ann Collins
Wickham’s Diary, by Amanda Grange

To qualify for one of the giveaway items (one item per person) please leave a comment stating which of the giveaways you are dying to read and wish Jane Austen a happy birthday! Contest ends on 11:59 pm, Wednesday, December 21, 2011. Winners announced on Thursday, December 22, 2012. To claim your prize, please respond by contacting us with the name of the book that you won in the subject line and your full name and address by Wednesday, December 28, 2011. Shipment to US and Canadian addresses only.

Good luck to all.

Happy Birthday Jane Austen!

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

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Holiday Austen Potpourri

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, Jane Austen Merchandise, JASNA, tagged Fruitcake, Jane Austen, JASNA, Puget Sound JASNA, Southwest JASNA, Syrie James, The Huntington Library and Gardens on 15 December 2011 | 18 Comments »

I am so behind in blogging, so here are the whirlwind highlights of what I have been doing at Woodston Cottage and in California these past two weeks…

My Trip to California

I left my snug cottage in Snohomish and flew to Los Angeles for a quick Jane Austen-inspired long weekend. On Friday, author Syrie James and her husband Bill picked me up at LAX airport and whisked me off to a screening at the Writer’s Guild Theater in Beverly Hills for a viewing of Twilight: Breaking Dawn. (is Edward really the new Darcy?). Inquiring Janeites would like to know!

Darcy vs. Cullen?

On Saturday we attended the Jane Austen Society of North America – Southwest Chapter’s Winter Symposium at the Los Angeles Athletic Club. Four of my authors from Jane Austen Made Me Do It were in attendance: Syrie James, Diana Birchall, Laurie Viera Rigler and Brenna Aubrey.

Signing Jane Austen Made Me Do It

We signed copies in between speakers and three of the ladies read excerpts from the anthology during lunch. The symposium was one of, if not the best run, events I have every attended. Beautiful historic building with amazing California plein air art, gourmet luncheon of prime rib and poached pears, and three fabulous speakers: Dr. Cheryl Kinney spoke on “A Dangerous Indulgence: Women’s Health in Jane Austen’s Time;” Arnie Perlstein spoke on “Concealed Pregnancies in Jane Austen’s Novels;” and Walter Nelson spoke on “Quackery, Snake Oil & Flim Flam Medicine.” Before lunch there was a wonderful toast to honor Jane Austen’s birthday cheered by all with mulled wine. What a fabulous event. Many thanks to JASNA – SW RC Nancy Gallagher and her team of organizers for graciously including me and Jane Austen Made Me Do It in your wonderful day in honor of Jane.

Jeweler Yvonne Yao

Next we were off for a brief visit to a local craft show to meet Syrie’s daughter-in-law Yvonne Yao who is a talented handcrafted jewelry designer. I was tempted — and succumbed. Who can resist beautiful bling?

Union Station interior

Then we were off to rejoin the event speakers and anthology authors from the JASNA event that day at dinner in the historical Los Angeles Union Station. Wow! Of course I had to tell the family story of how my father left Union Station in 1944 to go off to WWII. He almost missed his train because he was in the bathroom shooting craps! My dad always lived on the edge and fondly told that story.

A Day at The Huntington

Syrie and Bill James

The Rose Garden

The Japanese Garden

Sunday saw us journeying to the happiest place in my Janeite world. The Huntington Library and Gardens in San Marino. When I lived in California, I visited it frequently, but had not been there in over ten years. We were lucky to get in. The Pasadena area had been hard hit by a powerful and dangerous wind storm and the roads to the Huntington were littered with downed trees and debris. They had closed the grounds for two days to try to clean up.

Ancient California Live Oak blown over

There were still branches everywhere, paths blocked and huge live oak trees totally uprooted. That of course did not stop us. The weather was beautiful and clear (huzzah) and we walked the sumptuous gardens. I saw the new Chinese Gardens and many new building that they have added in the last few years.

The Chinese Garden

The Tea Rooms

The highlight of the day was a high tea in the Tea Rooms followed by tour through the Art Gallery which includes the Thornton picture gallery and the rest of the palatial manor house. The art collection contains some of the most fabulous Georgian and Regency era portraits anywhere. I of course visited my two favorites:

Lady Emma Hamilton, by George Romney

and Sarah Siddons as the Tragic Muse by Joshua Reynolds.

Both ladies were great beauties of their generation and infamous for entirely different reasons. Lady Hamilton was Admiral Nelson’s mistress, which scandalized Britain, and Sarah Siddons, the most famous dramatic actress of her day. Jane Austen wanted to see in London but missed the chance.

Art Gallery

The Huntington is renown for it’s incredible library of books, including a Gutenberg bible, and first editions of all of Jane Austen’s novels. Scholars come to visit and study its numerous and unique selection, all locked up in the rare collection room. In the main house there is also a small library of twentieth-century editions that I always enjoyed skimming through in the past. All the classic are there, including a Chawton edition of Jane Austen’s Novels. Syrie’s eyes lit up when I mentioned that I always searched for them every time I visited the Huntington. It had become a ritual for her too. As we oohed and aahed over the leather bound volumes, a kind gentleman with a great camera took this shot for us and emailed it to me. The binding is much bluer in person, but it is great to have the image and know that Syrie and I, two ladies passionate about Jane Austen, had admire them so independently of one another until this day! Ironically, the set is next to an edition of The Brothers. Do any other Janeites see the humor in these two authors paired together? The first person to know the answer, and leave a comment, wins a signed copy of Jane Austen Made Me Do It! (shipment Internationally)

Chawton Edition of the Novels of Jane Austen

Of course the day would not be complete without a trip to the gift shop, one of the best museum shops I have ever been to. I purchased some treasures: Jane Austen magnets which I featured in my recent Austen-inspired holiday gift selections, beautiful tree ornaments of pie slices, candy and gingerbread houses and a hat! Syrie and I enjoyed the special Jane Austen section which featured her novel The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen and Margaret Sullivan’s Jane Austen Handbook. Monday I traveled to San Clemente to visit my sister and mother and then Tuesday I flew home. My cat Herman was VERY happy to see me after being looked after by family. It’s so nice to be missed! ;-)

Syrie and Laurel Ann in the gift shop

Home at Woodston Cottage

Jane attends the JASNA – Puget Sound birthday party!

Since I returned home, I have been trying to catch up on email and blogging — and the holidays. I attended my own Puget Sound Chapter of JASNA’s birthday celebration of Jane Austen birthday last Sunday.

Julie A., Mary Robinette Kowal, Laurel Ann Nattress and

Marian LaBeck at the JASNA Puget Sound December Austen birthday soiree

Guest speaker, novelist and puppeteer Mary Robinette Kowal from Portland, discussed the challenges of writing a Jane Austen-inspired Regency era novel. Her highly acclaimed Shades of Milk and Honey was embraced by Jane Austen fans as very Austenesque in style and language. She discussed the evolution of language since Jane Austen day and its challenge to modern writers. Determined to get it right, Mary had used a database of words from Jane Austen’s novels and letters in an attempt to check certain words against her new novel, Glamour in Glass, that releases in April. I had a chance to chat with her after her talk and mentioned that she might find the Austen Thesaurus helpful. She was not aware of it – and if you are not either – you can put any word in and it will pull comparable words that Jane Austen used. It’s called Write Like Jane Austen – and they are not kidding.

Newly elected Regional Coordinator Charlene Kern with a friend

The JASNA – PS celebration was very festive with toast to Jane by Debra Alderman, pictures with Jane, and a food spread that Jane would definitely have approved of. It was great to see my chapter friends Marian LaBeck, James Nagle & Julie A. A very enjoyable day was had celebrating our favorite author’s birthday.

The Jane Austen birthday celebration is building for Friday, December 16th, an all day long birthday bash by 32 bloggers. Don’t miss out of the blog hop with each of the participants writing a post in honor of Jane, and giveaways galore.

Austenprose’ birthday swag

I will be joining the festivities with a discussion of the new Fourth Edition of Jane Austen’s Letters and a giveaway of Austen-inspired note cards by Jennifer Shaphren, designer of Jenny Did it!, a copy of Jane Austen Letters (third edition) and a signed copy of Jane Austen Made Me Do It. It should be a very busy day on Friday hopping around the blogosphere and leaving comments on all the blogs to qualify for the giveaways.

the fruit cake

Lastly, yes, I am almost finished. The holiday decorating continues at Woodston Cottage. I am decking the halls with wreaths, garland, candles, poinsettia’s and fruit cake. I talked about my famous golden fruitcake last year. It’s not that sticky, gooey, candied fruitcake that people joke about being shipped around the world ten times. This is made with dried fruit soaked in bourbon. It is a knockout and tastes fabulous. May I brag about it some more? It takes two weeks to make, and no time at all to consume! Here are few slices showing how the fruit and nuts make it so showy! I am now qualified to be called the fruitcake lady.

the proof is in the pudding

Also on my dinning table are two new arrivals: Downton Abbey season two screener from my friends at Masterpiece Classic PBS (happy dance), and an advance readers copy of Forbidden, by Syrie James and Ryan M. James. She co-wrote it with her son Ryan and it is one of the most highly anticipated teen novels of the season. My reviewer Christina can’t wait to get her mits on it.

Phew. I did it! So much news that just needed to get told. Please check back on Friday for Jane’s birthday bash. It shall be an incredible day for Janeites!

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

Woodston Cottage

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Mr. Darcy, er, Colin Firth waxwork unveiled…

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Colin Firth, Colin Firth Waxwork, Jane Austen, Mr. Darcy, Pride and Prejudice on 14 December 2011 | 10 Comments »

Okay, this requires no explanation!

Follow this link to watch the video at The Telegraph online!

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Join the Birthday Soiree for Jane Austen on December 16, 2011

Posted in Austenesque Authors, Austenesque Books, Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Jane Austen, Jane Austen's Birthday on 13 December 2011 | 31 Comments »

Yes. Jane Austen is 236 years old this Friday!

Thirty one Austen bloggers, authors and literature enthusiasts are joining forces for an Austen Birthday Soiree. Organized by Katherine Cox of November’s Autumn & Maria Grazia of My Jane Austen Book Club, the daylong blog hop will feature a post in celebration of Jane Austen, her life, her novels and the era in which she lived at each of the 31 blogs!

And, what birthday would not be complete without presents, and there will be gifts for Jane – and the visitors of the blogs. Just leave a comment to qualify for the great giveaways being offered in celebration of the Janeite holiday.

Participants in Austen’s Birthday Soiree

Sharon Lathan
Blog: Sharon Lathan
Giveaway: one copy of Miss Darcy Falls in Love
Emily Snyder
Blog: O! Beauty Unattempted
Giveaway: one copy of Letters of Love & Deception
Laurel Ann Nattress
Blog: Austenprose
Giveaway: one signed copy of Jane Austen Made Me Do It
C. Allyn Pierson
Blog: SemiTrue Stories
Giveaway: one copy of Mr. Darcy Little Sister (open internationally)
Cindy Jones
Blog: First Draft
Giveaway: one signed copy of My Jane Austen Summer and a package of Lily Berry’s Pink Rose Tea by Bingley’s, Ltd.
Farida Mestek
Blog: Regency Sketches
Giveaway: one copy of I was Jane Austen Best Friend, by Cora Harrison
Marilyn Brant
Blog: Brant Flakes
Giveaway: A canvas ACCORDING TO JANE tote bag and a pair of A SUMMER IN EUROPE luggage tags
Prue Batten
Blog: Mesmered’s Blog
Giveaway: one copy of Georgiana Darcy’s Diary: Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice continued, Anna Elliott
Erin Blakemore
Blog: The Heroine’s Bookshelf
Giveaway: Pride and Prejudice notecards, by Potter Style
Blog: vvb32 reads
Giveaway: Jane Austen’s Little Instruction Book (Charming Petites), by Jane Austen, edited by Sophia Bedford-Pierce, illustrated by Mullen & Katz, introduction by Barbara Paulding
Karen Doornebos
Blog: The Fiction vs. Reality Smackdown
Giveaway: 2 Jane Austen candles and 2 signed copies of Definitely Not Mr. Darcy plus drink coasters and tea!
Regina Jeffers
Blog: ReginaJeffers’s Blog
Giveaway: one signed copy of Christmas at Pemberley
Alyssa Goodnight
Blog: Alyssa Goodnight
Giveaway: one Jane Austen Action figure
Deb Barnum
Blog: Jane Austen in Vermont
Giveaway: 2012 calendars from the Wisconsin JASNA Region
Laura Hile, Susan Kaye, Pamela Aidan, and Barbara Cornthwaite
Blog: Jane Started It!
Giveaway: one copy of Young Master Darcy: A Lesson in Honour, by Pamela Aidan; one set of Frederick Wentworth, Captain (Books 1 and 2), by Susan Kaye; two copies of Mercy’s Embrace: So Rough a Course (Book 1), by Laura Hile; one copy of George Kinghtley, Gentleman (Books 1 and 2), by Barbara Cornthwaite
Juliet Archer
Blog: Choc Lit Authors’ Corner
Giveaway: one copy each of Persuade Me and The Importance of Being Emma
Jane Greensmith
Blog: Reading, Writing, Working, Playing
Giveaway: one copy each of Intimations of Austen, and Sense & Sensibility (Marvel Illustrated)
Jenny Allworthy
Blog: The Jane Austen Film Club
Giveaway: a copy of Northanger Abbey DVD starring Felicity Jones and JJ Feild (The winner will choose region 1 or 2 DVD)
Sitio Jane Austen
Blog: El Salón de Té de Jane
Giveaway: one copy of the Spanish edition of Sense and Sensibility and one copy of DVD package with adaptations of Jane Austen. (It’s only zone 2, but it’s in Spanish and English ), and one copy of BBC’s Emma with Romola Garai (Blue-ray)
Kaitlin Saunders
Blog: Kaitlin Saunders
Giveaway: one copy of A Modern Day Persuasion
Becky Rhodehouse
Blog: One Literature Nut
Giveaway: selection of Austenesque Reads
Patrice Sarath
Blog: Patrice Sarath
Giveaway: one copy of The Unexpected Miss Bennet
Adriana Zardini
Site: Jane Austen Brasil
Giveaway: DVD – Sense and Sensibility (1995) – English / Portuguese subtitles
Jane Odiwe
Blog: Jane Austen Sequels
Giveaway: one mug with one of Jane Odiwe’s illustrations and one copy of Mr. Darcy’s Secret
Courtney Webb
Blog: Stiletto Storytime
Giveaway: one copy of Noble Satyr by Lucinda Brant (Regency Romance)
Jennifer Becton
Blog: Jennifer W. Becton
Giveaway: one copy of the eBook of the Personages of Pride and Prejudice Collection, which contains Charlotte Collins, “Maria Lucas,” and Caroline Bingley. Open internationally.
Vera Nazarian
Blog: Urban Girl Takes Vermont
Giveaway: a copy of Vera Nazarian’s gift hardcover edition of her inspirational calendar and diary, The Perpetual Calendar of Inspiration
Abigail Reynolds
Blog: Pemberley Variations
Giveaway: one signed copy of Mr. Darcy’s Undoing
Blog: AustenAuthors
Giveaway: one copy of Georgette Heyer’s Regency World, by Jennifer Kloester
Katherine Cox
Blog: November’s Autumn
Giveaway: one $10 B&N Gift-card (US only)
Maria Grazia
Blog: My Jane Austen Book Club
Giveaway: A selection of Austenesque reads

Don’t miss out on all the fun and fabulous giveaways!

Cheers, Laurel Ann

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What I did on my Jane Austen vacation! (Or, an Austen obsessive’s postman’s holiday!)

Posted in Austenesque Authors, Austenesque Books, Jane Austen Inspired, JASNA AGM, tagged Jane Austen, Jane Austen Made Me Do It, JASNA Ft. Worth on 25 October 2011 | 21 Comments »

Gentle Readers,

Today is the last day of a three week vacation. I had planned this time off to coincide with the launch of my new book, Jane Austen Made Me Do It. I can’t even begin to tell you when I last had a three week holiday! Maybe in high school summer break? Dunno, its been so long it boggles the mind.

I can say that I spent my time productively. I have been pounding away on my computer with the furor of a bargain hunter at a Macy’s lingerie sale! Wrote twenty (20) blogs out of thirty-two (32) in total for my Grand Tour of the blogosphere (Oct 10 – Nov 10). Tweeting, Facebooking and commenting on the Internet like there is no tomorrow.

Flew to Ft. Worth and attended the Jane Austen Society of North America’s Annual General Meeting (Oct 14-16, 2011) during which I had my book launch party at the Sundance Square Barnes & Noble on Friday October 16.

Was introduced to BBC and Regency celeb Amanda Vickery (The Gentleman’s Daughter) who was there with the BBC filming a documentary on Jane Austen.

Attended the fiction authors luncheon arranged by the multi-talented Cindy Jones (My Jane Austen Summer).

Listened and laughed with plenary speaker Andrew Davies on Saturday afternoon. Introduced fellow JASNA – Puget Sound chapter member James Nagle for his breakout session on Coaches, Barouches and Gigs, Oh My!

Dressed for the banquet while catching up on conference gossip with roommate Deb Barnum (Jane Austen in Vermont).

Dined with Syrie and Bill James and Deb at the banquet. Watched the Regency Promenade through Sundance Square. Wanted to go watch the Regency dancing but crashed instead. (can you forgive me?)

Up at the crack of dawn Sunday morning to attend the Author Book Signing and then the closing brunch. Dashed off to the local UPS store to mail books, large poster of JAMMDI and a sundry stuff back home so that my luggage weight limit would not explode!

Headed out to The Kimbell Art Museum to see the brand new exhibit, Caravaggio and His Followers in Rome (WOW) with fellow JASNA – Puget Sound members Marian LaBeck, her sister Monica and Kimberly Brangwin. Jumped on a transport to the airport where we ran into Susan Mason-Milks (Mr. Darcy’s Proposal) and Karen Doornebos (Definitely Not Mr. Darcy) and had a quick bite at TGI Fridays in the airport terminal. Flew home, picked up my luggage, then my car, drove home. Cat Herman very happy to see me. Collapsed into bed at 1:00 am.

I returned on Sunday October 16th, over a week ago, and I still have not unpacked. Too busy! I have been running full out promoting my book online, writing emails and blogs like crazy. Saturday was my local Seattle book launch at Alderwood Barnes & Noble. (more on that on Friday) What an amazing event with the full contingent of fans, friends, family and co-workers all in attendance. It was red carpet sendoff for JAMMDI with me chatting about Jane Austen, my road to publication, reading from the book, tea and scones, live period music and English Country dancing. Phew!

So tomorrow, back to reality! I planned to spend my last day as an debut editor/author on the Internet, writing emails, blogs and social networking. That plan was nixed this morning when I could not get on my computer. ACK! I hear Frank Churchill’s voice echoing in my head from the 1996 movie adaptation of Emma! “Is your horse just washing his feet or are the darker forces at work here?” My computer was trying to install a Microsoft update that would not complete. NO COMPUTER. OMG! Total Internet withdrawal. What was I going to do? Two hours later the stupid update is still installing. What? This is madness.

So, what does a total Jane Austen obsessive who needs to be working on the Internet do? Read of course. I am half way through The Mysterious Death of Miss Austen, by Lindsay Ashford and am quite intrigued by her take on Anne Sharp, who was the governess to Jane’s wealthy brother Edward Austen’s daughter Fanny, and a lifelong friend to Jane too. It will surprise you.

It was also one of those ten days in the Pacific Northwest when it didn’t rain. A beautiful clear day resplendent Fall color, so I headed to Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery in neighboring Woodinville (beautiful spot) and ordered a case of wine to be shipped to some friends as a thank you. Of course I had to stop by Costco in the way home! I just could not pass up buying tulip and daffodil bulbs on sale for my garden. Oh joy. Now I get to plant them. Here are the varieties: tulips Blushing Beauty and Van Eijk and daffodils Unsurpassable. Here is my kitchen table with all of my to do’s piling up! Notice new books: Persuasion: An Annotated Edition, The Garden Intrigue, by Lauren Willig and Austentatious, by Alyssa Goodnight along with Austen note cards to write thank you’s with, a pile of Jane Austen Made Me Do It book marks I need to mail to my authors and a bizzion blubs to plant in my garden!

By the time I got home late in the afternoon, my computer had finished its massive update, thank goodness and I had 48 emails to answer and two blogs to write.

I shall return to selling Jane Austen to the masses tomorrow. Honestly, I need a vacation from my vacation!

Cheer,

Laurel Ann

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Hot off the Press! ~ Jane Austen’s Regency World Magazine ~ Issue No. 53 (via Jane Austen in Vermont)

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Jane Austen, Jane Austen's Regency World Magazine on 27 August 2011 |

Thanks Deb at Jane Austen in Vermont for sharing the news! Look forward to reading the new issue of Jane Austen’s Regency World.

News direct from the publisher – the latest issue of Jane Austen’s Regency World Magazine, No. 53 September / October 2011 is in the mail!

KATE MIDDLETON AND JANE AUSTEN ~ How the Duchess is related to our favourite author STETSONS FOR JASNA ~ The AGM is comingTexas – and here’s a preview of all the exciting events in store GORGEOUS GAINSBOROUGH ~ A new exhibition of the portraitist’s landscapes THE MEDICAL REGENCY ~ Illness and death in Ja … Read More

via Jane Austen in Vermont

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JASNA Puget Sound Celebrates its 20th Anniversary

Posted in Jane Austen Inspired, JASNA, tagged Downton Abbey Martinis, Jane Austen, Jane Austen Society of North America, Puget Sound JASNA, Seattle Regency Group on 19 August 2011 | 18 Comments »

I was privileged to attend the festive 20th anniversary celebration of the Puget Sound chapter of the Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA) at the elegant, Georgian-style Mayflower Park Hotel in downtown Seattle this Sunday last. The beautiful paneled library of this landmark hotel was filled to capacity with many ladies and gentlemen in Regency-attire who enjoyed a warm welcome by Regional Coordinator Marian LaBeck, followed by a set from Jane Austen’s songbook by the talented Charlene Kern. A champagne toast to our dear Jane by Kimberly Brangwin, one of the chapters founding members, was the highlight of the day for me. Kimberly kindly agreed to let me share her moving speach with my readers.

Twenty years ago, in this hotel, fifteen people gathered to discuss an adored author, Jane Austen.

Over the ensuing years, we have analyzed and argued over all of Austen’s writing.

We have learned about

Fashion and foodstuffs

Regency and religion

Navy and nobility

Love and loss

Estates and entails

Family and friends.

After all this time together, we have made a family from friends.

And so a toast—To us and the muse we adore—Jane Austen.

I had arrived in Seattle unfashionably late after encountering a traffic accident on the 520 bridge and had the great fortune to be seated next to chapter newsletter editor Julie A. who graciously introduced me to many members during the course of the day. She enthusiastically showed off her gorgeous new Kate Spade Pride and Prejudice clutch handbag that I had only heard tell of on Facebook. You can see by the photos that it is a stunner and perfectly finished off Julie’s fashionable summer frock.

The Mayflower Park presented an elegant three-course meal of chicken saltimbocca, garlic mashed potatoes, prosciutto, goat & asiago cheeses in a roasted garlic-tomato-basil sauce, or vegetable Wellington, with Portobello mushrooms, zucchini and sun dried tomato pesto for our enjoyment. While savoring my dinner, I had remembered that some of the cast members from the popular television series Downton Abbey had stayed at the hotel while they were in in town for a PBS donor event that I attended the following week. Dan Stevens had Tweeted about his visit to Oliver’s, the hotel watering hole, where bartender Steve had create a martini in honor of the show. Inspired to discover the drink, Julie and I ventured into the bar and asked the bartender on duty for a Downton Abbey. The look of surprise on his face was classic, but he soon found the recipe stashed in the cash draw and proceeded to mix the cocktails while we watched in anticipation. For those interested in designer martinis, it is made from Hendrick’s gin, St. Germain (elderflower liqueur), lime juice and a splash of champagne. Wow! It did not disappoint and may be my new signature drink. Back at our table, it was certainly the conversation piece and Marian LaBeck soon followed our example and trekked off to the bar to order her own glass of the potent concoction.

Lest you think that the afternoon was spent entirely in wine and song, there was also the premier of an original playlet written by member Judith Fiedler, featuring Mary Laney, Loveday Conquest, Kimberly Brangwin and Nichelle Hilton portraying Elinor Ferrars, Mrs. Ferrars, Fanny Dashwood and Lucy Ferrars respectively in honor of the 200th anniversary of the publication of Sense and Sensibility. Bravo to the cast for an amusing reading, and to Judith for giving Lucy Ferrars the hilarious last line.

Even though I had met some of the Puget Sound members previously and corresponded with James Nagle (who was sadly out of town), I had not attended one of the local chapter meetings previously. It is a trek to drive from Snohomish to Seattle for events, but what is fifty miles of good road when Janeites are gathering?

Many thanks to the chapter members for their gracious and warm welcome. I look forward to many future soirees and am anxious to share my Austentini recipe at the next get together.

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

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Austenalia at Chapman University

Posted in Austenesque Authors, Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Austenalia, Chapman University, Diana Birchall, Jane Austen, Karen Joy Fowler, Laurie Viera Rigler, Lynda Hall, Syrie James on 11 June 2011 | 6 Comments »

Austenalia panelist, left to right: Diana Birchall, Syrie James,

Laurie Viera Rigler and Karen Joy Fowler

Last February, (on a whim, because that is the only way to live, right?), I flew from Seattle to Los Angeles to attend an Austen-inspired event that I just could not pass up. Authors Syrie James, Laurie Viera Rigler and Diana Birchall, who have contributed stories to my Austen-inspired short story anthology Jane Austen Made Me Do It, were part of a panel discussion aptly entitled Austenalia, in honor of the 200th anniversary of the publication of Jane Austen’s first novel Sense and Sensibility. Chaired by Dr. Lynda Hall at Chapman University in Orange, California, the panel also included bestselling author of The Jane Austen Book Club, Karen Joy Fowler. All five of these ladies are tried-and-true Janeites and I hoped that it would be a lively and enlightening experience. It was. And so much more.

Prof. Lynda Hall introduces the Austenalia panelist

The ladies spoke to an SRO crowd at Leatherby Libraries on campus! Prof. Hall, who is a scholar of 19th Century British literature introduced the four panelist and asked each of them probing questions on how they were introduced to Jane Austen, their road to publication and their reactions to marketing of their works, namely cover designs. Interestingly, each of the panelists has strong ties to Hollywood. Diana Birchall, author of Mrs. Darcy’s Dilemma, is a story analyst for Warner Brothers Studios, Syrie James, author of The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen, worked as screenwriter for several years before tuning her pen to novels, Laurie Viera Rigler has worked in the industry including turning her popular Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict series into an original web comedy series, Sex and the Austen Girl, and Karen Joy Fowler’s bestselling novel The Jane Austen Book Club was made into a movie in 2007.

Austenalia panel viewing 1st American edition of Jane Austen’s novel Sense and Sensibility

A lively discussion ensued matched by the spirited reaction of the audience, many of which were a large group of students from the Orange County High School for the Arts. The event was followed by a book signing by the panelists of their novels and a viewing of a first American edition of Sense and Sensibility recently purchased by the library in honor of the bicentenary. Fortunately for us, the event was filmed in entirety. Please enjoy all one hour and twenty three minutes of pure Jane Austen passion.

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Which Jane Austen Character Do You Most Indentify With?

Posted in Jane Austen Humor, Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Harriet Smith, Jane Austen, Jane Austen Humor, Jane Austen's Characters, Jane Austen's World, Lady Russell, Mrs. Jennings, Persuasion, Sense and Sensibility, Sir John Middleton on 14 April 2011 | 56 Comments »

Gentle Readers, Vic from Jane Austen’s World and I both freely admit to being passionate Jane Austen fans, which tends to infiltrate our everyday world in ways that have us viewing friends and ourselves through Austen’s unique prism. Here is a bit of fun today for your amusement:

LA: Vic and I were chatting on the phone today. Over the course of our three plus year Austen-inspired friendship we have mostly emailed, so this was a treat. She has the most infectious laugh which made me laugh too. Of course we were talking about our favorite author and she remarked that Austen excelled at humor and the amazing secondary characters she developed. Somehow it just popped out and I boldly asked her what Jane Austen character she most identified with. Without hesitation she replied, Lady Russell from Persuasion. “Lady Russell?” I replied in surprise! “Well, yes.”

Jane Rus.., er, Mrs. Russell

She then revealed that she is often wrong about the advice she gives people. At work she gathers the young-uns around her and freely offers opinions, whether they are solicited or not. When she gives wrong counsel – which she admits is more often than not – she torpedos herself in a most spectacular fashion. “The error of my ways does not go unnoticed by this unforgiving crowd. Unlike Lady Russell, I will own up to a misteak, er, mistake or two, and apologize for having interfered, but I hold the line at groveling.”

Another reason why she identifies with this character is her independence. Lady Russell is a widow with a healthy income and she has no intention of remarrying and being subjugated by a man. “I am a divorced woman who has discovered the joys of living singly on my own terms and by my own schedule. Ah, what total, selfish bliss!”

Vic further admitted that at a party, or when she lets her hair loose, she starts to resemble Mrs. Jennings. You know the type: a bit vulgar, out for a good time, giggling at precisely the wrong moments, and making those with a more composed nature feel uncomfortable with crass jokes and loud language. “Like Mrs. Jennings, I have a good heart. But I can be out there and in your face too. I might seem unseemly to a quieter person like Elinor, and be totally disliked by the likes of a Marianne, but my friends and family get me, and that’s what counts.”

Oh Vic! You are such a card. Lady Russell and Mrs. Jennings? She then turned the tables on me. “Now, who do you identify with in Jane’s novels? Are you like me, a bossy and interfering carouser? Or are your a bit more sedate and ladylike?”

Harriet Smith (Tony Collette) patiently poses for Emma

Vic: “Sedate. A total Harriet Smith,” LA replied. Many years ago a dear Janeite friend tagged her as a Harriet to her Emma. “It seemed appropriate since I was often asking for advice and was very mailable to change.” In her view, Harriet was a bit of a ditz and gullible which she has been accused of too. The thing she liked about being a Harriet is that Austen gave her such a great ending. She is resilient, and after being tossed about in love no less than three times in a year, Harriet gets the man she wanted in the first place and proves Emma, with her self-important airs, was totally clueless about the human heart. “I like having the last laugh, and being right.” ;-)

Sir John Middleton (Robert Hardy) and Mrs. Jennings (Elizabeth Spriggs)

Lately LA thinks she has evolved into Sir John Middleton from Sense and Sensibility. He was the Dashwood’s cousin and landlord of Barton Cottage. He is very gracious and likes to pop in and make sure his tenants are comfortable and entertained. He is a bit of a bore and talks too much about things that are not of interest to his young companions, but he likes dogs, has a good heart and loves to laugh. “As an enthusiastic bookseller, I like to inform customers of their choices and make suggestions. I am also a bit of an organizer and enjoy planning events on my blog, and orchestrating the 23 authors in my anthology. It is like herding cats, but I like being the boss of my own world!”

One man’s ways may be as good as another’s, but we all like our own best. Persuasion, Ch 13

Now our question. Which Jane Austen character do you, estimable viewer, most identify with, or which character are you afraid of becoming? Feel free to leave your comments!

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Top Ten Reasons Why You Should Stalk Jane Austen

Posted in Jane Austen Humor, Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Books, Classic Literature, Entertainment, Fiction, Jane Austen, Jane Austen Humor on 8 April 2011 | 23 Comments »

Gentle Readers: Here is a guest post with some Friday fun to get the weekend rolling early. Alyssa Palazzo is a young college student with a passion/obsession for our dear Jane. I thought her essay charming and very funny. Enjoy!

My friends think I have a problem.

I follow Jane Austen on Twitter. I watch her house on Google Earth and note her every movement in my journal. I have friend requested her 307 times on Facebook. Last night, I checked to see what time she was leaving for the Connecticut Repertory Theater’s rendition of Pride and Prejudice. Then I followed her there. I keep my cupboard stocked with her favorite cereal brand in the hopes that one day her car will break down in front of my house and she will want breakfast.

Just kidding. Jane Austen’s dead. BUT, if she were alive, I would have absolutely no problem hiding under her bed and tracking her every movement. After all, I’ve read the books, seen the movies, watched the plays, and enrolled myself in the Jane Austen class offered at UConn. In order to defend my sanity I have composed a list of the top ten reasons I should stalk Jane Austen (or at least like the books.)

Mr. Darcy, Mr. Knightley, and Edmund Bertram are the sexiest male protagonists of all time. Enough said.
Happy endings. Every young lady ends up with exactly the right gentleman despite undergoing several trials and mix-ups.
The heroines aren’t weak creatures who need to be saved. Elizabeth Bennet treks through three miles of mud to visit her sick sister. There is no fainting, swooning, or rescuing to be found – although it might be worth it to be saved by the sexiest male protagonist of all time.
The characters suffer the consequences of their actions. For example, when Charlotte Lucas marries for convenience, she has to spend the rest of her life rotting in the back room of her house while avoiding her idiotic and obsequious husband. Harsh, but true.
The luxurious settings. Forget London. Who wouldn’t want to live in Longbourn or Highbury amidst the ample fields and long country roads? Especially when you live right down the lane from the sexiest male protagonist of all time.
Best opening line ever: “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.” Haha. Get it?
Austen does a fantastic job of mocking society. The clergymen are foolish, the “accomplished” young ladies are dimwitted, and the main characters can be spoilt and headstrong. This makes for a great book.
It’s not all about romance. The books incorporate human shortcomings, character flaws, and moral dilemmas, forcing the readers to think about human nature.
Austen was one of the few female writers of her time, and better yet, she never married. Way to stick it to the man.
Have I mentioned the sexiest male protagonists of all time?! I’m a Darcy girl myself, but trust me, there’s a man for every female reader in Austen’s novels.

Now that I’ve defended my sanity I’m off to read Mansfield Park. Trust me, it never gets old.

Editor’s note: Isn’t it refreshing Janeites, that young people all over the world are reading Austen and getting it? This eloquent and observant analysis just made my day!

Author Bio:

Alyssa Palazzo is a 4th semester English major and Women’s Studies minor at the University of Connecticut. Her latest work “Leaving the E-Herd for Face-to-Face Dating” was featured in the Hartford Courant. When she is not stalking Jane Austen, she is working and blogging at UConn’s Long River Review. You can follow her adventures at www.longriverreview.com

2007 – 2011 Alyssa Palazzo, Austenprose

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Follow Friday: Girlebooks

Posted in Austenesque Books, Jane Austen Book Sleuth, Jane Austen Inspired, tagged Book Blog, Ebooks, GirleBooks, Jane Austen, Jane Austen Sequels, KINDLE, NOOK on 18 March 2011 | 12 Comments »

If anyone hadn’t noticed, I love books! I work in a bookstore, I blog about books, a lot, and I have a household full of them. As a book reviewer, publishers and authors send me books weekly. I also buy *gasp* books, more than I would like to admit in this public forum. I have my special collection beautifully displayed in my ONE bookcase, stashes of them stuffed about the house, and boxes of them in storage. I am now maxed out on buying more physical books. Making me stop acquiring more books was not an option that I cared to even to contemplate. My solution was to buy a NOOK, Barnes & Noble’s nifty digital eReader. It has solved my space issues and also opened up even more possibilities of acquiring new books. Squee.

One great online source of digital books that I enjoy is Girlebooks, so I am selecting them as my Follow Friday this week. The “gals” Laura McDonald and Joyce McDonald are experts at digital geeky stuff and offer many classics and some new authors too in a variety of digital formats. So who are Girlebooks and why are they so great? Here’s the low down from their website:

What is Girlebooks?
Much more than a simple ebook resource, Girlebooks aims to make classic and contemporary works by female writers available to a large audience through the ebook medium. The site was founded by Laura McDonald and her mom Joyce McDonald with lots of help by volunteers and contributing bloggers.

Why books by women?
We love books by both men and women. However, if we may generalize, women’s most loved and re-read books are generally books by other women. The same is probably true for men. Also, as women authors were not always as celebrated and promoted as they are today, we are digging up many forgotten books that that we believe deserve a wider audience than they have.

What is different about your ebooks?
You can get ebooks in lots of places on the internet, but our ebooks are hand-crafted and professionally formatted. Each ebook has a linked table of contents and text reflow for small reading devices. We create covers, correct errors introduced by digital conversion, and offer the ebooks in multiple formats to accommodate most ebook reading devices. All of our ebooks, even the ones in the ebook store, are DRM free (no digital rights management). This means that once you download the ebook, it is yours forever.

• Here is a partial and prejudice list of ebooks that I have from Girlebooks that Janeites and historical fiction lovers might consider owning yourself:

Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen
There Must Be Murder, by Margaret C. Sullivan (read my review)
The Sylph, by Georgiana Duchess of Devonshire
Margaret’s Rematch, by Farida Mestek
The Life of Charlotte Bronte, by Elizabeth Gaskell
Nachtstürm Castle: A Gothic Austen Novel, by Emily C.A. Snyder
The Complete Works of Jane Austen, by Jane Austen

There dozens of other classics that I could snap up without hesitation if I had the time to read them all, but I must stay focused on the tasks at hand and be patient.

All ebooks available for digital download out there from other sources are not created equal. It is all about the formatting, proof reading and editing – and the gals at Girebooks do a beautiful job.

♥ Great news! Girlebooks is now offering their entire inventory for just .99 cents. I know! You can purchase and download right from their website, or like me go, to Barnes & Noble or your other favorite online retailer and purchase directly. I just added Nachtstürm Castle: A Gothic Austen Novel, by Emily C.A. Snyder today, and can’t wait to read it (in my nonexistent free time mind you).

If you do not have a digit eReader, don’t despair. Did you know that Kindle and NOOK offer free app’s to download and read of your computer, Blackberry, iPad and many other digital devices? Here is the info at B&N and Amazon.

Enjoy Girlebooks everyone. They are a fabulous resource.

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

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Pride and Prejudice

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Plan of a Novel, according to hints from various quarters, by Jane Austen

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HAPPY 236th BIRTHDAY JANE AUSTEN!

Quick links to participants in Austen’s Birthday Soiree

Our Tribute to her Letters

SUPER SPECTACULAR JANE AUSTEN BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Laurel Ann

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Austenalia panelist, left to right: Diana Birchall, Syrie James,

Laurie Viera Rigler and Karen Joy Fowler

Prof. Lynda Hall introduces the Austenalia panelist

Austenalia panel viewing 1st American edition of Jane Austen’s novel Sense and Sensibility

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