London in the eighteenth century was no place to be a poor young girl with high hopes.
Wakenhyrst – Book Review
I know Maud and Wake’s End will remain with me for a long time, and I will find myself back in the fen when I least expect it.
2019 – what a year!
This year has truly flown by for me. It has been a whirlwind of wedding planning, writing, publishing, and engaging with my readers. |
The Victorian Governess: Research
The Victorian Governess, by Katherine Hughes, gives a straight forward account of what life was really like for those women who floated uneasily on the border between servant and lady.
A Victorian Hallowe'en
On Hallowe'en 2019, my partner and I made our way across the Shropshire countryside to Acton Scott. Not far from the Long Mynd and the Stiperstones, Acton Scott really does feel a million miles from the hustle of everyday life. In the dark, it's a perfectly spooky setting!
Squalid Slums and Stately Homes: Inspiration for The Button Maker
Slums, stately homes, and nursery rhymes: inspiration for my third novel.
The Victorian House by Judith Flanders: Research Books
I have just finished The Victorian House by Judith Flanders. After writing five books set in the Victorian period, I felt my research needed topping up. Well, I couldn’t have started with a better book.
Brodick Castle: A Victorian Duke and Princess
Step back in time and explore the Victorian Brodick Castle on the Isle of Arran.
A murder case and an old bird: Inspiration for The Promise Keeper
Whilst reading Bedside Book of Murder: fifty chilling stories – all true, I found inspiration for The Promise Keeper. The story was called The Horror of the Stauntons, and truly, it was horrific.
Kinver Edge and The Rock Houses: A Day Out
On a sunny Sunday morning, I ventured to Kinver Edge in Stourbridge. Now belonging to the National Trust, it is a haven for tourists who can explore the many acres of woodland and open areas, and of course, the famous rock houses.