Making a Start

Posted on September 27, 2021 by Shannon Winslow

Sometimes starting is the hardest part of writing a novel (read more about that subject here). That’s seems to be the case this time. At least I certainly hope it gets easier going forward!

I knew I wanted to write a Sense and Sensibility novel, as I told you back in June (post: What’s Next?). Then after your feedback, I settled on telling Colonel Brandon’s story. (Proposed title: Colonel Brandon in His Own Words.) I will delve a little deeper into his backstory – his relationships with his family and especially with Eliza, a bit about his army years, returning home to find Eliza dying, his inheriting Delaford. Then his life is reanimated by meeting Marianne – their relationship evolving from one-sided through to mutual love and marriage. Everything from Brandon’s point of view and in His Own Words.

I looked forward to filling in all those blanks – the stuff Jane Austen only hinted at, just as I did in my previous book (Fitzwilliam Darcy in His Own Words). But still I couldn’t seem to get started. First roadblock: some research, which is not my forte. Another challenge was deciding at what point in time to open the book.

I didn’t want to start at the beginning of his life, writing the book like a perfectly chronological diary: “I was born October 19, 1778…” After all, authors are always told that we should start our stories where the action is. That’s something I haven’t always succeeded in doing. Of course, neither did Jane Austen, so I don’t feel too bad about that.

I could start close to the end and tell nearly everything in retrospective; that would be another perfectly viable option.

But I think I’m going to start in the middle instead, at Colonel Brandon’s point of crisis, when he’s sure he’s lost Marianne forever. There are actually six days between when he goes to Elinor to confirm that Marianne is going to marry Willoughby (“Tell me then, Miss Dashwood, please. Is everything finally settled between them?“) and when he learns that Willoughby is actually engaged to Miss Gray.

What a miserable week that must have been for him. Plenty of time to think through all that has gone before as well as the bleak outlook for the future. So that’s the situation in the excerpt below. Hope you enjoy this sneak peek! Then I’ll want your opinion.

Prologue

It is happening again, and I suddenly feel very old. Although I survived it once before – just – I have the gravest doubts that I can do so again. Some days, I do not even wish to.

The circumstances are quite different this time, it is true. But the pain is the same – the sudden wrenching in my gut each time I think of it, which I do nearly every minute of every day; the repeated jolt of panic in my brain, which tells me that I must do something to stop it; the hollow ache in my heart and the certain knowledge of my own pathetic powerlessness. It is all too familiar, for once again the hand of the woman I love more than life itself is being given irrevocably to another, and there is absolutely nothing I can do about it.

It is no doubt weak and self-indulgent, as I have repeatedly told myself, but my mind will persist in entertaining questions of morbid curiosity. I cannot seem to help asking if, overall, it is better or worse this time. Is my disappointment more or less profound, the circumstances more or less regrettable? Will the resulting pain last as long as before and leave scars as deep?  

On the surface, the current event appears worse – at least for myself personally – for I shall not only have the pain that she is lost to me forever but the additional mortification of knowing she does not care for me. Well in fact, she thinks nothing of me at all. So, God willing, I shall be the only one to suffer, which was not the case before.

Poor Eliza. I would not wish Marianne Dashwood to experience the same fate, not for the world. In fact, that must be my chief consolation: knowing that she is happy, even if it must be in the arms of another man. I would willingly sacrifice my own happiness and more if it would secure a lasting one for her. And yet who can say that her current bliss will endure, dependent as it is upon a man of whom I have every reason to think ill? And so my mind cannot by any means be easy for the future – hers or my own.

I’m still very open to suggestions at this point, so what do you think? Is this a good way to start the book? Does it capture your interest and make you want to read more, or not? Do you think it’s cruel of me to leave poor Brandon stuck in this painful place for so long? But then, that’s another bit of writing wisdom: You must torture you hero/heroine before giving them their happy ending. And of course there will be a happy ending!

Colonel Brandon… was silent and grave. His appearance however was not unpleasing, in spite of his being in the opinion of Marianne and Margaret an absolute old bachelor, for he was on the wrong side of five and thirty; but though his face was not handsome his countenance was sensible, and his address was particularly gentlemanlike.  – Sense and Sensibility

Making a Start

Posted in excerpts, Jane Austen, Jane Austen Quotes, my books, Uncategorized, writing | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 19 Comments

August Ups and Downs

Posted on August 30, 2021 by Shannon Winslow

Before you ask, no, I don’t have exciting progress on a new book to tell you about. I wish I did. I will have to count that as one of the “downs” of this month.

But I always look forward to August – good weather, our anniversary, often a trip to the lake – and this year was no different. In fact, we had two trips planned this time – unusual for us, since we hardly ever go anywhere.

First, though, I had a week of jury duty to get through. Not necessarily a “down.” I’ve done it before and found it interesting. It would just be an inconvenience – driving into Tacoma every day, dealing with city traffic and city parking, getting nothing else done. That’s what I anticipated. Instead what happened is that my group number never came up, so I didn’t have to report at all.

Then we were off to Sunriver, Oregon, for six days of vacation! We visited friends in Bend on the way, which was a delight, and we were meeting other friends at our destination. It promised to be a fun getaway!

That promise was mostly kept. We hiked beside the Deschutes River to a falls, and we also traversed the subterranean caverns of a mile-long lava tube. We explored the quaint town of Sunriver Village, ate overpriced ice cream, and floated the Deschutes River. All good.

Mom’s 89th birthday

But while there, I received the upsetting news that my 89-year old mother had been hospitalized with a significant stroke. We left Sunriver early to begin a bedside vigil that lasted ten days until she passed away.

My mom and I were very close, so obviously this was a severe blow, as those of you who have been through it know all too well. And yet, even in this most-serious of downs – loss of a family member – there were blessings. I’m grateful for my mom’s sweet spirit. I am grateful that she didn’t suffer a painful death. I am grateful there was time for everyone to come and say goodbye. I’m grateful that instead of lingering, possibly for years, in the ever-increasing incapacitation that her dementia would have caused, she could talk and walk and recognize her loved ones to the end. And I’m most grateful for the hope of heaven, where I will see her again someday. In the meantime, I’m glad to know she is freed from her struggle, restored, and at peace, safe with Jesus and reunited with my dad and others who have gone before.

One more thing I’m grateful for: that we had a peaceful place to retreat afterward. Although our trip to Montana was delayed, we decided not to cancel it entirely. So this is where I sit now as I write this post. When something bad happens, we more than ever need reminders of what’s good and beautiful in our world. It’s easy to see that here. In fact, it feels like a little taste of heaven.

“I shall soon be rested,” said Fanny; “to sit in the shade on a fine day, and look upon verdure, is the most perfect refreshment.”

Jane Austen, Mansfield Park
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Happy Birthday to “The Darcys of Pemberley” – Celebration and Giveaway!

Posted on July 28, 2021 by Shannon Winslow

When your firstborn turns 10, it’s only fitting that you should throw a party, right? That’s what’s happening today. My very first novel – The Darcys of Pemberley – was published exactly ten years ago today, and what a difference that decade has made in my life!

You should know that when I started writing the story in 2004, I had absolutely no idea that such a thing as Jane Austen Fan Fiction (JAFF) existed. I just knew that I wanted more Jane Austen – more Pride and Prejudice particularly.

What would happen after the wedding, I wondered. How would Darcy and Elizabeth deal with the first major crisis in their marriage? Did Georgiana have a secret love? What kind of trouble would Wickham cause next? And would Lady Catherine ever get her comeuppance? My inquiring mind needed to know!

So one day I sat down at the computer to try to answer those questions. I hoped to create what I desperately wanted myself: a faithful sequel to Pride and Prejudice. Since I had never attempted to write a novel before, I didn’t know if I could actually do it. And I certainly had no aspirations of publication at the time. I was doing it mostly for my own entertainment.

But I surprised myself. The book turned out so well – at least for my first try – that I thought I might be a legitimate novelist after all! Many hurdles remained, of course, but finally on July 28, 2011, my “darling child” was launched out into the world. Now I have ten novels (and one non-fiction) published, and my “day job” has long since disappeared from my rearview mirror. But it all began with The Darcys of Pemberley – my first, bestselling, and still most popular novel.

I want to tell you that I have got my own darling child from London. On Wednesday I received one copy sent down by Falkener… Miss B. dined with us on the very day of the book’s coming, and in the evening we fairly set at it, and read half the first vol. to her… she really does seem to admire Elizabeth. I must confess that I think her as delightful a creature as ever appeared in print, and how I shall be able to tolerate those who do not like her at least, I do not know.

– Jane Austen, in a letter, regarding Pride and Prejudice

I can just imagine how Jane Austen felt when she wrote this about her newly published novel Pride and Prejudice. I felt much the same, I think, when I first held a copy of  The Darcys of Pemberley in my hand 10 years ago.

So let’s celebrate that big day with some games and prizes!

Game 1:  Cover art puzzle. Just for fun, follow this link to do an online jigsaw puzzle of the artwork used for the full, wrap-around paperback cover of The Darcys of Pemberley. (You can adjust the numbers of pieces to make it more or less difficult if you want.)

Game 2: How about a little scavenger hunt through chapter one? (If you don’t own the book, you can read chapter one from the free sample at Amazon).  First, discover who has died. Next, find a new character who was never mentioned in Pride and Prejudice. What’s her name and her relation to the deceased? Finally, what’s your favorite line in chapter one – something that made you laugh or smile perhaps?

20170103_103944_resized

You don’t have to play the games to win, but If you do play (game 2), you will double your chances by being entered twice in the random drawing! What’s at stake? I’m giving away 5 audio codes, 2 ebooks, and 1 signed paperback – that’s for the runners up. The grand prize winner gets all three, plus a limited-edition Darcys of Pemberley book bead, pictured! (Due to the high cost of international shipping, the physical prizes are offered to US residents only. Electronic alternatives will be substituted for all others.)

To be entered, just bop on over to Austen Variations (where this post is running concurrently), and leave a comment: your scavenger hunt answers and/or whatever else you’d like to say. Have you read The Darcys of Pemberley? If so, how long ago, and what did you enjoy about it? If you haven’t read it yet, would you like to? Why? Winners will be announced August 2nd, right here, on the Austen Variations post, and on the AuVar FB page. So be sure to check back.

And thank you for celebrating TDoP’s 10th birthday with me!

UPDATE 8/2/21: CONGRATULATIONS to the WINNERS! Elizabeth Litton (Grand Prize), Katie Jackson, Laura Wiersma, Laura H, Lois, Glynis, Betty Madden, JWGarrett, and Sheila L. Majczan. Please email me at shannon(at)shannonwinslow(dot)com (subject line Happy BirthdayTDoP) to claim your prize.  Tell me your preference (what book, what form you would like) and hopefully I will be able to accommodate your requests!  You do not need to have an Audible account to use an audio code, btw, but I will need to know which you have access to, Audible US or UK.

Posted in Austen Variations, contests, fun & games, giveaway, Jane Austen, Jane Austen Quotes, my books, Shannon Winslow, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

A Movie Review: Emma 2020

Posted on June 29, 2021 by Shannon Winslow

I haven’t done a movie review here in quite a while. So, since I just watched it again, I thought I’d share my thoughts about the newest Austen novel adaptation, Emma 2020. But first a brief update:

No, unfortunately I don’t have major progress on a new book to report (see previous post). But the good news is that the audio book of Fitzwilliam Darcy in His Own Words is now available! Harry Frost (who is the voice of Darcy to so many) did a great job narrating the story, and I think you’ll enjoy listening to it. I did! (Read a little about the collaborative process – my notes to him and his comments to me, etc. – in this post at Austen Variations.)

Now, back to the movie review.

To begin, I should say that when I heard there was another film adaptation of Emma being made, my initial reaction was, “Why?” After all, we already had three good movie versions, (starring Kate Beckinsale, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Ramola Garai in the title role). I own and like them all, for slightly different reasons. (I wondered why they didn’t make a decent adaptation of Mansfield Park instead? I’m still waiting for one worth adding to my collection! UPDATE: For more on this topic, see this post – Second Chance Reviews)

Of course, when it came out, I had to see it anyway. I couldn’t NOT watch a new Jane Austen movie! In fact, I had a date made to meet a friend at the theater. Then Covid hit and closed the theaters that very day. I finally got to see the movie a few months later on DVD.

At first, I wasn’t sure what to make of it, though – strange music, a bazaar nose bleed just where I would least want one, a Knightley who seemed too young and briefly appeared naked, and plenty of liberties taken with the story and characters. A faithful adaptation? No. Still there was something interesting about it – interesting enough to take a second look.

I was glad, then, that I had a copy of the movie on loan, so that I could do just that. In fact, I watched it three times before returning it – or maybe it was four. Each time, the movie grew on me a little more until I decided I must add it to my permanent collection alongside the other three.

What turned the tide of my opinion? Most importantly, after the first time through I stopped expecting it to be something it wasn’t. No, although it captures the spirit, it’s not a completely faithful adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel. But, as I said before, we didn’t really need another one of those anyway, did we? This Emma is deliberately different; it must be judged for what it is – what it attempts to do – not for what it isn’t.

What it is is innovative and quirky. It’s fun and funny. It’s “Jane Austen’s beloved comedy… reimagined in [a] delicious new film adaptation.”

So, considered in this new light, everything makes more sense. The odd music choices don’t put me off; I rather enjoy them. I find Johnny Flynn’s version of Mr. Knightley – one more tortured and less sure of himself than the others – rather endearing. Bill Nighy’s much more energetic but equally neurotic Mr. Woodhouse has completely won me over. (I still don’t really care for the nosebleed, btw, but I can live with it.)

As for the leading lady, Anya Taylor-Joy, I think she does the title role justice. Her Emma is not very likable (Jane Austen never meant her to be), but by the end she has been humbled and softened sufficiently that we can wish her well.

The real evils indeed of Emma’s situation were the power of having rather too much her own way, and a disposition to think a little too well of herself; these were disadvantages which threatened alloy to her many enjoyments. The danger, however, was at present so unperceived, that they did not by any means rank as misfortunes with her. (Emma, chapter 1)

Other highlights? THE COSTUMING! Even people who hated the movie raved about the costumes. And then there’s the Emma/Knightley ON-SCREEN CHEMISTRY. It really revs up during the dance sequence, and then there’s that one other scene… In the Kate Beckinsale / Mark Strong version of the culminating kiss, I cringe every time or even avert my eyes: zero chemistry. With this one, I sigh, then I back it up and watch it again… and possibly again after that.

[Confession: I would probably have bought the movie just for this scene alone – their palpable attraction first explored, along with the moving musical accompaniment – thrills my romantic little soul every time. It has now joined a couple of other all-time favorite scenes that I always watch more than once: what I call “The Look” in P&P ’95, and the meeting at the railway station at the end of North and South.]

So if you haven’t seen Emma 2020 yet, I recommend you do… with an open mind, not expecting something it was never intended to be. If you have seen it and didn’t care for it, consider giving it a second look. It may grow on you, like it did me, until you’ve given it a place in your affection and maybe even in your movie collection.

Interested in MORE MOVIE REVIEWS? Visit my Movie Reviews page for a complete list with links!

PS – For a like-minded but more in-depth review of Emma 2020, read this excellent post by Hazel Mills at All Things Jane Austen.

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What’s Next?

Posted on June 1, 2021 by Shannon Winslow

Fitzwilliam Darcy in His Own Words has been out in the world for almost a month, and the book tour is now completed. In case you missed any of that, read recent posts here and visit these other blogs:

Note: A big THANK-YOU to those who have read it and then told your friends or left lovely reviews for the book at Amazon and Goodreads. I SO appreciate your taking a few minutes to do that!!!

The only task still ahead is to see the audio version – being recorded right now by Harry Frost – through to publication (end of June or in July). So it’s about time I get serious about starting another book!

I have in mind doing a Sense and Sensibility book next. As you may know, my goal is to write at least one novel related to each of Jane Austen’s six, and only Emma and S&S remain. Also, S&S is the book that will be featured at the 2022 JASNA AGM, which I hope to attend since it will be relatively close by (Victoria, BC, Canada).

I’ve considered a couple of options for this next book. See what you think.

1) I’ve thought of doing a S&S sequel in the style of a mystery, since I had so much fun writing Murder at Northanger Abbey. Strange things start happening at Delaford, and it appears Marianne’s life might be in danger. The main focus would be on her relationship with her husband Col. Brandon, before and then after their happiness is disrupted. Edward and Elinor, who live so close by at the parsonage, naturally get into the act too, helping to solve the mystery. I don’t know what the title would be, though. Danger at Delaford?

2) Since I enjoyed writing from Darcy’s point of view, I could do another book in the same format: Colonel Brandon in His Own Words. I could delve a little deeper into his backstory – his relationships with his family members and especially with Eliza, their forced separation, a bit about his army years, returning home to find Eliza dying and him inheriting Delaford. Then his life is reanimated by meeting Marianne – their relationship evolving from one-sided through to mutual love. (Aside: Since it would be Brandon’s first-person account, wouldn’t it have been a dream-come-true if Alan Rickman could have narrated the audio book?)

3) Actually, I don’t exactly have a third option in mind, but I’m totally open to suggestions!

In any case, it’s Colonel Brandon that I find the most appealing and possibility-filled character.

Colonel Brandon… was silent and grave. His appearance however was not unpleasing, in spite of his being in the opinion of Marianne and Margaret an absolute old bachelor, for he was on the wrong side of five and thirty; but though his face was not handsome his countenance was sensible, and his address was particularly gentlemanlike. – Sense and Sensibility, chapter 7

So, what do you think? Do you have more enthusiasm for option #1 or 2, or is there a different sort of Sense and Sensibility book you’re dying to read?

Where does S&S rank on your list of Jane Austen’s novel? (For me, it’s probably about the middle of the pack – somewhere after P&P and Persuasion, and somewhere before Mansfield Park.

Which character in the book do you think is most intriguing?

Which film adaptation do you think is the best?

I’d love to hear your opinions. Help me decide What’s Next!

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It’s Launch Day for “Fitzwilliam Darcy in His Own Words”

Posted on May 4, 2021 by Shannon Winslow

It’s here at last! I’m excited and proud to introduce my latest novel to you: Fitzwilliam Darcy in His Own Words.

When one online friend heard that my new book was coming out on Star Wars Day (“May the 4th be with you.”), she said she fully expected it to be a Pride and Prejudice / Star Wars mash-up. Sorry. Cool idea. Maybe a short story someday.

But, no, Fitzwilliam Darcy in His Own Words is pure, unadulterated Pride and Prejudice – unadulterated, that is, in the sense that Austen’s original story remains unchanged. But I have added a treasure trove of previously undisclosed information to it, including revealing the behind-the-scenes love triangle that threatened to completely and permanently change the outcome! So is this novel a variation or not? Yes and no. It’s part prequel, a ton of “missing scenes” material and all of it in an alternate character’s point of view: that of our favorite hero, Fitzwilliam Darcy.

It was tremendous fun writing this book! -getting inside Darcy’s head, discovering what he was thinking and what he was up to all that time. I hope you will enjoy reading his story too! So, without further ado, here’s the book blurb, followed by the slightly shocking Prologue in Darcy’s Own Words:

What was Mr. Darcy’s life like before he met Elizabeth Bennet? – before he stepped onto the Pride and Prejudice stage at the Meryton assembly? More importantly, where is he and what is he doing all the time he’s absent from the page thereafter? And what is his relationship to a woman named Amelia?

With Fitzwilliam Darcy, in His Own Words, the iconic literary hero finally tells his own story, from the traumas of his early life to the consummation of his love for Elizabeth and everything in between.

This is not a variation but a supplement to the original story, chronicled in Darcy’s point of view – a behind-the-scenes look at the things Jane Austen didn’t tell us. As it happens, Darcy’s journey was more tortuous than she let on, his happy ending with Elizabeth in jeopardy at every turn in his struggle between duty and his heart’s desire, between the suitable lady he has promised to marry and the woman he can’t stop thinking about.

Prologue:

I still occasionally suffer that recurrent dream – a nightmare, really. I awake at Darcy House in London. Morning light is filtering through the diaphanous draperies at the windows, painting ghostly shadow patterns across the opposite wall. I feel a great sense of wellbeing at the start of a new day. All is right with the world, or at least my portion of it.

Then I turn toward the other side of the bed and see… not Elizabeth, as I expect, but the Honorable Miss Amelia Lambright. Only of course she is no longer an honorable miss, not when she has spent the night in a man’s bed. Then I suddenly remember why she is there. Her name is Miss Lambright no more; she is Mrs. Darcy now. My heart lurches and I break into a cold sweat, not because the former Miss Lambright is so horridly unappealing, but because she is not Elizabeth.

I tell myself it surely must be a hallucination or some trick of the light. So I shake my head to clear any cobwebs, rub my eyes, and blink. Still, the wrong woman is before me. Please, God, let it be a dream!

I fight to awaken, to claw my way back to the world where I belong, the world where Mrs. Darcy has not blonde but dark, sat-iny hair and sparkling eyes. My throat constricts; I cannot breathe. I cannot find my voice to call out. Elizabeth, where are you? I must find her! My life depends on it.

When on these disturbing occasions I at last come to myself, it is many minutes before my heart and breathing return to normal, and longer still until my mind can quiet itself. Even after I have verified that Elizabeth is indeed beside me where she belongs; beheld her face, a peaceful portrait of repose in whatever meager light offers; pulled her warm, familiar form to fit close against mine; and heard her sleepy but unmistakable voice murmuring my name with affection…

Even then my soul quakes within me for how close the vision from which I have just awakened came to being true, how close I came to missing Elizabeth altogether. Then she and I would have been only two ships sailing the same stretch of sea, perhaps even passing within sight of each other occasionally but never hap-pening to come into a common port together, at least not until it had been too late.

My happier outcome depended on the slimmest thread of unlikely circumstances being precariously strung together without error. At any one of a dozen junctures, the course of my life could have carried me in a completely different direction.

When I consider this, I shudder. Then I thank God for His providential care in guiding me safely through. I thank Bingley for Netherfield. And Wickham. Strangely enough, now, years later, I can think back with some philosophy, enough to acknowledge the part he unwittingly played. Were it not for Wickham and his nefarious but timely interventions, I would likely be married to Amelia Lambright today.

Intrigued? I hope so! Fitzwilliam Darcy in His Own Words is available NOW in paperback, Kindle, and KU. Want it in audio? I’m delighted to tell you that the incomparable Harry Frost is currently recording the book! It should be out the end of June or in July.

Meanwhile, watch for the limited blog tour stops I have planned for more about the book, excerpts, and humorous interviews (featuring a disgruntled Mr. Collins and an aloof Mr. Darcy).

Posted in Austen Variations, book launch, excerpts, Jane Austen, my books, Shannon Winslow, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Cover Reveal Bonus!

Posted on April 20, 2021 by Shannon Winslow

The cover for Fitzwilliam Darcy in His Own Words (at right) was officially revealed last week at Austen Variations. But I always like to hold a little something special back for readers of my own website/blog. So that’s what I have for you today as a bonus: what I’ve held back, an inside look at the cover development and the never-before-seen-anywhere full-wrap paperback cover!

Next to the actual launch, the cover reveal is the most exciting part of bringing a new book out into the world… at least for me, since I’m just as much involved in the creative process of each.

My mom was an artist, and so I very naturally developed an interest in art from an early age. I dabbled in this and that form of art and lots of crafts. Then as an adult, I eventually started producing some jewelry and paintings to sell at local art shows, which I attended in partnership with my mom. But whereas my mother was a real artist at heart, I didn’t discover my true creative calling until I started writing novels.

Now the writing has entirely taken over. But when each book is finished, I have an opportunity to resurrect my latent artistic flare, turning it loose in the cover design process!

I’ve made no secret of the fact that the picture above (a still of Colin Firth’s Darcy, P&P ’95) inspired not only the cover design for this book but in some ways the novel itself.

Mr. Darcy soon drew the attention of the room by his fine, tall person, handsome features, noble mien, and the report which was in general circulation within five minutes after his entrance, of his having ten thousand a year. The gentlemen pronounced him to be a fine figure of a man, the ladies declared he was much handsomer than Mr. Bingley, and he was looked at with great admiration for about half the evening, till his manners gave a disgust which turned the tide of his popularity; for he was discovered to be proud; to be above his company and above being pleased; and not all his large estate in Derbyshire could then save him from having a most forbidding, disagreeable countenance, and being unworthy to be compared with his friend.

Pride and Prejudice, chapter 3

I like the expression caught on his face here. You can imagine that beneath that perfectly controlled and well-put-together exterior there’s a lot of emotion going on. He’s a flawed man, a tortured soul. He’s a man trapped within the social constraint of his time, within the high expectations placed on him by others as well as himself, and within his own reserved nature. When Elizabeth comes along and upsets his carefully ordered life, he’s torn between doing his duty – keeping his word to the woman he’s promised to marry – and giving in to his heart’s desire for another.

So that was the starting point for the cover: the inspiration picture. Then next came the “artist’s interpretation” of it – in this case, a pastel painting.

It’s not a photographic copy, nor was it intended to be. My hope was to capture the essence in a more “painterly” style. It came out looking like a slightly younger Mr. Darcy, I think, which is entirely appropriate since the book covers some ground in the years just before the scope of Pride and Prejudice. Besides, the character in the book was about 5 years younger than Colin Firth was when he played Darcy.

But wait! Maybe you noticed that in the finished cover, Darcy is facing the opposite direction! Well, that’s the work of the talented graphic artist who does my covers (who also happens to be my nephew). I sent him the finished paintings, telling him, “But I really think it will work better if you flip Darcy right for left, to balance the picture of Pemberley at the top. …And could you shade the background from dark to lighter as you go down. …Oh, and would it be too much trouble to add some more hair at the top of his head?”

Poor guy. I’m sure he finds me a very challenging client. But after much back and forth, and usually after I’ve changed my mind about something at least once, we end up with a cover I’m very happy with in the end. Then after the Kindle cover (at the top of the page) is finished, he moves on to the paperback and finally the audio cover design.

So now for the grand finale: the unveiling of the never-before-seen paperback cover. Ta-da! (click to enlarge)

I hope you enjoyed your behind-the-scenes look at how this cover developed, step by step. And I hope you would like to see it gracing your bookshelves soon (or at least your Kindle).

Everything is on track for the May 4th publication in Kindle, KU, and paperback. It’s available now at Amazon for Kindle pre-order too! Audio begins production soon and should come out sometime in June. The incomparable Harry Frost will be the narrator! Read more about the book here.

Posted in art, Austen Variations, Jane Austen Quotes, Shannon Winslow, Shannon Winslow's writing, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 18 Comments

Hats, ARCs, and a Cover Peek-a-boo

Posted on March 19, 2021 by Shannon Winslow

Fizwilliam DarcyFitzwilliam Darcy, in His Own Words. The book is done, and I can hardly wait for its debut on May 4th. I’m super excited about the gorgeous cover too (inspired by this still from the ’95 mini-series), which is scheduled to be revealed on April 14th. But that’s still over 3 weeks away!

So, what am I doing in the meantime? I’m trying to get a strategy together for promoting the book, for how I’m going to get the word out about this new story!

When I started in this game over a decade ago, I figured that my job was to write a great book. After all, that’s the part where my skills and interests most applied. Then, I imagined I would pass my baby off to others who would handle the actual publication and promotion process, no doubt sending me off on on a glamorous book-signing tour. I would have enjoyed that.

Didn’t happen. That’s not how things are done anymore. For most of us at least, there are no actual book-signing tours and no big-budget publicity teams either. Nearly everything is done online by the author him/herself, who must wear many hats. Some of those hats fit better than others, and a few are downright uncomfortable.

I bought some Japan ink likewise, and next week shall begin my operations on my hat, on which you know my principal hopes of happiness depend. (from a letter)

For example, I’m not all that comfortable with technology. I’ve learned what I had to to get the job done, but it’s definitely not my strong suit. However, I have recently started playing around on Canva, creating some graphics I can use in the promotion process – things like the graphic above, which I made all by myself! Also a peek-a-boo from the cover (below). So maybe there’s hope.

I’m also not great at self-promotion. “Hey, look at me, look at me! Isn’t my book amazing?” That’s not my style at all. So I’m hoping to get some help with that (You see, I’m perfectly fine with other people bragging about my books!). Reviews (on Amazon and Goodreads, etc.) are critical, and especially the first ones to get the ball rolling. So I’d like to recruit a few of the subscribers of this blog, who would be willing to promptly post reviews about Fitzwilliam Darcy in His Own Words, to receive and read an ARC (advance-reader copy) of the book. Are you interested?

To help you decide, go here to read the Prologue. And here is the official book blurb:

What was Mr. Darcy’s life like before he met Elizabeth Bennet? – before he stepped onto the Pride and Prejudice stage at the Meryton assembly? More importantly, where is he and what is he doing all the time he’s absent from the page thereafter? And what is his relationship to a woman named Amelia?

With Fitzwilliam Darcy, in His Own Words, the iconic literary hero finally tells his own story, from the traumas of his early life to the consummation of his love for Elizabeth and everything in between.

This is not a variation but a supplement to the original story, chronicled in Darcy’s point of view – a behind-the-scenes look at the things Jane Austen didn’t tell us. As it happens, Darcy’s journey was more tortuous than she let on, his happy ending with Elizabeth in jeopardy at every turn in his struggle between duty and his heart’s desire, between the suitable lady he has promised to marry and the woman he can’t stop thinking about.

If you’re ready to sign on to my unofficial “publicity team,” email me here: shannon(at)shannonwinslow(dot)com, subject line “ARC.” Tell me why you’re perfect for the job! Like I said, I don’t have a big publicity budget, but I’m planning a small thank-you gift for those who successfully complete the assignment. Plus you’ll get to read the book before anybody else!

Untitled designAnd now, as I promised, here’s that graphic I created to give you a peek-a-boo look at the cover. What do you think? – not the bricks, of course, but the pair of eyes looking at you between them. I have to admit I had fun putting this together. 😀

Have a great day, and watch for the cover reveal post at Austen Variations on April 14th. Or follow this link.

Fitzwilliam Darcy - KINDLE4/14/21 UPDATE: Here’s the finished cover! I hope you like it. Everything is on track for the May 4th publication of Fitzwilliam Darcy in His Own Words in Kindle, KU, and paperback. It’s available now at Amazon for Kindle pre-order too. Audio begins production soon and should come out sometime in June. The incomparable Harry Frost will be the narrator.

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Hearts and Flowers

Posted on February 20, 2021 by Shannon Winslow
Valentine Flowers

Today, while there’s a bit of a pause in the writing process, I’m commemorating Valentine’s Day with hearts and flowers and some fancy papercrafts appropriate to the season.

Although my primary creative outlet is writing, I also love dabbling in various arts/crafts as well. And those two loves intersect nicely when it comes time to design a book cover.

That’s where I am now. While the completed manuscript of Fitzwilliam Darcy, in His Own Words is out to a few trusted ‘beta’ readers for comments, I’ve been working on some original art that I hope will become an amazing cover to go with it! No, I’m not giving any sneak peeks of that today. You’ll just have to wait for the exciting cover reveal! But here’s a previous cover art sample, and then I want to share some crafty items with you.

I know Valentines Day was a week ago, but I’m still in the mood, especially since I’m still enjoying the flowers my husband gave me (above)! Unfortunately, Jane Austen had ALMOST NOTHING to say about Valentines, only this from an 1801 letter:

Eliza talks of having read in a newspaper that all the 1st lieutenants… were to be promoted to the rank of commanders. If it be true, Mr. Valentine may afford himself a fine Valentine’s knot…

By “Valentine’s knot,” did she mean a fancily tied cravat… or a heart-shaped sailor’s knot? I don’t know. But Jane Austen would definitely have been familiar with the concept of sending Valentines to someone special.

In fact, I just learned about the Puzzle Purse style of Valentine at a virtual JASNA meeting last weekend. This intricately folded and decorated Valentine is often called a Victorian Puzzle Purse, but it actually dates from c. 1790. So perhaps Jane Austen might have given (or received?) one of these beautiful Valentines herself! It would have been presented as a neatly folded packet. Then the recipient would open it out, first to a pinwheel stage and then all the way, to get the full sentiment, expressed in hearts, flowers, and poetry.

(To see a beautiful example and to learn more about this art form and its Jane Austen connection, please visit this lovely post at Her Reputation for Accomplishment. Find out how to fold your own puzzle purse at the Origami Resource Center.)

Just to learn how, I made a rudimentary puzzle purse myself, which I’d be embarrassed to show you. But I will share a very fancy cut-paper Valentine I made long ago, when I had a lot more patience than I do now. Again, this is another type of craft that would have been popular in 19th century.

I remember this took me hours of work with an Exacto knife and a needle to create, following a pattern. If you look closely, you’ll see that there are a couple of hundred tiny pinholes adding detail to the design. My fingers still hurt when I think of it! So I’m not likely to ever make another one. I framed it and gave it to my parents one year for their February anniversary.

I hope you had a great Valentine’s Day, with hearts, flowers, and someone you love. Or at least with chocolate and a good book! Leave a comment about how you spent the day, or if you have any favorite Valentine’s traditions or crafts. I’d love to hear from you!

PS – Stay tuned for updates on the new book: Fitzwilliam Darcy, in His Own Words. The cover reveal is scheduled for April 14th and the book is set to launch on May 4th, so not long to wait now!

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The Same, Only Different

Posted on January 21, 2021 by Shannon Winslow

I’ve participated in a couple of JAFF (Jane Austen Fan Fiction) author events recently. And in preparing for them, I realized that, although we all share the same love of Jane Austen’s work, my writing philosophy is a little different from most JAFF authors, and my novels reflect that. Doing things my own way may not be the smartest move, from a business perspective, but I have to be true to myself.

I am fully sensible that an historical romance… might be much more to the purpose of profit or popularity than such pictures of domestic life in country villages as I deal in. But I could no more write a romance than an epic poem… No, I must keep to my own style and go on in my own way; and though I may never succeed again in that, I am convinced that I should totally fail in any other. (from Jane Austen’s letter to J. S. Clarke, librarian to the Prince Regent, after receiving from him some unsolicited advice on writing)

First, I love ALL of Jane Austen’s novels. Okay, not equally, it’s true. As for most people, Pride and Prejudice is right there at the top, followed closely by Persuasion. Sense and Sensibility, Northanger Abbey, and Emma comprise the middle of the pack, with Mansfield Park bringing up the rear. That’s my ranking.

But still, as I said before, I love them ALL. They’re ALL worth reading. They’re ALL worthy of our attention. And for a true Janeite, ANY Austen is better than almost any other book you could read, right? So, early on, I decided that I’d like to write at least one novel related to each of Jane Austen’s six. And I’m well on my way.

I have Pride and Prejudice covered, obviously (The Darcys of Pemberley, Return to Longbourn, The Ladies of Rosings Park, Miss Georgiana Darcy of Pemberley, with another coming out soon: Fitzwilliam Darcy, in His Own Words). For Persuasion, I wrote The Persuasion of Miss Jane Austen. I count Leap of Hope as my Mansfield Park book (although there’s a lot of P&P in it too!). And most recently, I wrote a campy sequel to Northanger Abbey: Murder at Northanger Abbey. That leaves Sense and Sensibility and Emma left to go.

I only wish I could persuade more readers to also expand their sights beyond P&P, at least once in a while!

The second major difference between me and most other JAFF writers is that I don’t write “variations” per se. I can’t swear that I won’t in the future if I get a sensational idea, but so far the books I’ve written expand on (or supplement) Jane Austen’s stories; they don’t change them. I don’t mean that as a criticism of those who do write (and read) variations. Not at all! It’s just what works best for me. I’m sappy enough to believe that there’s one true story for the characters I’ve come to know and love, and that’s the one Jane Austen wrote. So for now, I’m sticking with that.

Well, I did make one minor exception to the above guideline. If you remember, near the end of P&P, Mr. Collins writes to Mr. Bennet and mentions expecting a “young olive branch” – an allusion to Charlotte being pregnant. Personally, I thought it would be better if Mr. Collins were not allowed to reproduce, so in my sequels, that turned out to be a false alarm! I trust you won’t mind.

Anyway, it’s kind of a “world building” approach that I’ve taken. I have expanded on Jane Austen’s stories chronologically, with sequels for example. In fact my two P&P sequels, when added to the original novel form a complete P&P trilogy!) I have also expanded by writing from alternate character’s points of view, telling their full stories and how they fit in, discovering what they’re up to all the time they’re missing from the page. There’s plenty Jane Austen didn’t tell us to give scope for the imagination, plenty of intriguing gaps for me to fill in. What fun!

So all my books are written (at least to the best of my ability) to agree with each other and with canon. And not all of my books are based on Pride and Prejudice. That makes me kind of different, I guess, but the devotion to Jane Austen is the same!

~~~*~~~

Have you read all six of JA’s novels? How would you rank them? Are you willing to venture beyond P&P JAFF from time to time? What would you like to see me write for my Emma and S&S books?

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