Eliza Lloyd's Blog, page 16
August 15, 2013
Long and Short Reviews 6th Anniversary Party COMING SOON
Heads up for LASR's 6th Anniversary Party.Tons of authors, tons of swag.You don't want to miss this bash.All this is happening between August 26th and August 30th. www.longandshortreviews.com
August 10, 2013
The Whole Art of Dress
Here's a great excerpt from an1830's tome I recently purchased about men's fashion. Full of great new stuff.
The Whole Art of Dress
Or
The Road to Elegance and Fashion.
Cravatiana:
OF STOCKS AND NECKCLOTHS
I shall now proceed to note and comment upon a portion of dress, in the selection and method of wearing which taste and neatness is pre-eminently to be distinguished; more particularly in full costume. First I shall treat of Stocks, which, though assuming a variety of forms, and shaped for the sake of perspicuity, I have distinguished only under their three general heads, the Royal George or Full Dress, the Plain Beau, and the Military.
The origin of stock is very ancient, though for the last half century they have been worn almost exclusively by the Army, Navy, and Marines, until first revived into public notice by his late Majesty, in the year 1822, when they immediately became an universal fashion.
Though at first viewed with a prejudiced and jealous eye by friends of the old school, after some opposition from the petits maitrestribe, they at length found their way into the opera and ballroom, and became a portion of full-dress costume. But this has only occurred since his Majesty was pleased to display one at Drury Lane theatre, composed of velvet and satin, from whence the present full-dress stock takes its name. Habit still, however, in some degree, reflects upon stocks for evening costume, and the adoption, though increasing, is by no means at present popular among the ton. I now proceed to describe three fashions I have classed them under.
THE ROYAL GEORGE
Or Full Dress. This stock, the shape of which is left in a great degree to the wearer's pleasure, is composed of the richest black Genoa velvet and satin, the latter which, sloping down each side of the velvet, terminates in the centre with a very handsome tie, representing a small gordian knot with short broad ends. From the beautiful and lively contrast, of the velvet and satin, this stock is peculiarly becoming to dark complexions, as nothing can afford a stronger relief than the deep sable of its exterior. His Majesty and his royal brothers were always remarkable for wearing them extremely high on the cheek, so that the sides came close under the ears, extending to the utmost verge of the chin. Though this certainly gives a very noble and fine effect to some countenances, the rage for it has passed away and is now deemed singular.
THE PLAIN BOW
Is nearly straight-sided, very pliant, and composed entirely of black silk, with a common bow in front. Though of an humble aspect beside its more haughty and aristocratical contemporaries, its appearance is unassuming and businesslike. Fashion decidedly Oriental.
THE MILITARY
Is remarkable for the plain stiff elegance of its form, which is composed of corded silk, edged with kid and lined with crimson; unlike the two former fashions it has no tie. The shape or stiffner should be made of a thick whity-brown leather, which is beaten into shape upon a proper block, it should then be of so unyielding a nature that no force of the neck can bend it. A good shape ought to bear new covering at least a dozen times. The tout ensemble of this fashion expresses plainness and dignity with neatness and hauteurin an infinite degree.
Of stocks in general, it may be observed, that they are both handsome and economical, and are not attended with half the trouble of cravats, to which they become a pleasing change, more especially so in dark or gloomy weather, when light-coloured neckerchiefs have a very forlorn appearance. Of course it need scarcely be said that the military and plain beau should never be assumed for full dress. A large sable-coloured hook and eye, will be found an excellent and easy substitute for a buckle behind, the arrangement of which is frequently tiresome in the extreme.
With regard to Neckcloths, it is first indispensably necessary to premise, that previous to putting into execution the fashions here developed, the utmost attention should be paid to their washing, bleaching, and starching; the latter of which must generally be used in such proportion as to stiffen the cloth to the consistence of fine writing-paper. You may then confidently make your first folds as in the annexed plate; and then, with some slight practice and care, may execute the following ties at pleasure.
The Whole Art of Dress
Or
The Road to Elegance and Fashion.
Cravatiana:
OF STOCKS AND NECKCLOTHS
I shall now proceed to note and comment upon a portion of dress, in the selection and method of wearing which taste and neatness is pre-eminently to be distinguished; more particularly in full costume. First I shall treat of Stocks, which, though assuming a variety of forms, and shaped for the sake of perspicuity, I have distinguished only under their three general heads, the Royal George or Full Dress, the Plain Beau, and the Military.
The origin of stock is very ancient, though for the last half century they have been worn almost exclusively by the Army, Navy, and Marines, until first revived into public notice by his late Majesty, in the year 1822, when they immediately became an universal fashion.
Though at first viewed with a prejudiced and jealous eye by friends of the old school, after some opposition from the petits maitrestribe, they at length found their way into the opera and ballroom, and became a portion of full-dress costume. But this has only occurred since his Majesty was pleased to display one at Drury Lane theatre, composed of velvet and satin, from whence the present full-dress stock takes its name. Habit still, however, in some degree, reflects upon stocks for evening costume, and the adoption, though increasing, is by no means at present popular among the ton. I now proceed to describe three fashions I have classed them under.
THE ROYAL GEORGE
Or Full Dress. This stock, the shape of which is left in a great degree to the wearer's pleasure, is composed of the richest black Genoa velvet and satin, the latter which, sloping down each side of the velvet, terminates in the centre with a very handsome tie, representing a small gordian knot with short broad ends. From the beautiful and lively contrast, of the velvet and satin, this stock is peculiarly becoming to dark complexions, as nothing can afford a stronger relief than the deep sable of its exterior. His Majesty and his royal brothers were always remarkable for wearing them extremely high on the cheek, so that the sides came close under the ears, extending to the utmost verge of the chin. Though this certainly gives a very noble and fine effect to some countenances, the rage for it has passed away and is now deemed singular.
THE PLAIN BOW
Is nearly straight-sided, very pliant, and composed entirely of black silk, with a common bow in front. Though of an humble aspect beside its more haughty and aristocratical contemporaries, its appearance is unassuming and businesslike. Fashion decidedly Oriental.
THE MILITARY
Is remarkable for the plain stiff elegance of its form, which is composed of corded silk, edged with kid and lined with crimson; unlike the two former fashions it has no tie. The shape or stiffner should be made of a thick whity-brown leather, which is beaten into shape upon a proper block, it should then be of so unyielding a nature that no force of the neck can bend it. A good shape ought to bear new covering at least a dozen times. The tout ensemble of this fashion expresses plainness and dignity with neatness and hauteurin an infinite degree.
Of stocks in general, it may be observed, that they are both handsome and economical, and are not attended with half the trouble of cravats, to which they become a pleasing change, more especially so in dark or gloomy weather, when light-coloured neckerchiefs have a very forlorn appearance. Of course it need scarcely be said that the military and plain beau should never be assumed for full dress. A large sable-coloured hook and eye, will be found an excellent and easy substitute for a buckle behind, the arrangement of which is frequently tiresome in the extreme.
With regard to Neckcloths, it is first indispensably necessary to premise, that previous to putting into execution the fashions here developed, the utmost attention should be paid to their washing, bleaching, and starching; the latter of which must generally be used in such proportion as to stiffen the cloth to the consistence of fine writing-paper. You may then confidently make your first folds as in the annexed plate; and then, with some slight practice and care, may execute the following ties at pleasure.
July 30, 2013
Upcoming Release for Wicked Secrets
It's here! Book Four of the Wicked Affairs series, titled Wicked Secrets. Oh, I love this story. Well, the whole series really. But this one has an added layer of emotion and heartache.
Release day is September 6th!
Here's the a little blurb - and remember I did warn you about the affair!
The Earl of Archer, Charles Standifer’s infatuation with his wife has turned into the cold reality of marriage misery. Vows are not so easily broken but when he gives into temptation all the secrets of the past threaten to destroy them and their marriage. He would give anything to have his wife, but she will have none of him.
The reserved and compassionate Alizabet, Lady Archer knows she will never please her husband in ways that matter to men yet she cannot deny the love she has for him in spite of the heartbreaking betrayal.
He has never doubted her affection for him, but that has done nothing to assuage his sexual need. When Charles discovers the revelation of Alizabet’s shocking past, can he be the man and husband she needs? Or will he forever be denied his rights to the alluring yet unattainable woman he calls wife?
Release day is September 6th!
Here's the a little blurb - and remember I did warn you about the affair!
The Earl of Archer, Charles Standifer’s infatuation with his wife has turned into the cold reality of marriage misery. Vows are not so easily broken but when he gives into temptation all the secrets of the past threaten to destroy them and their marriage. He would give anything to have his wife, but she will have none of him.
The reserved and compassionate Alizabet, Lady Archer knows she will never please her husband in ways that matter to men yet she cannot deny the love she has for him in spite of the heartbreaking betrayal.
He has never doubted her affection for him, but that has done nothing to assuage his sexual need. When Charles discovers the revelation of Alizabet’s shocking past, can he be the man and husband she needs? Or will he forever be denied his rights to the alluring yet unattainable woman he calls wife?
July 27, 2013
The Clubs of London, Vol II
I'm reading a tome from 1828 titled The Clubs of London with anecdotes of their members, sketches of character and conversations.
I never tire of the British sense of humor - subtle, dry and observational.
Here's a little ditty certain card players might appreciate:
Sir Francis Burdett one evening was speaking most affectionately of his grandfather; and, among other agreeable recollections of the days of his boyhood, he stated that his progenitor had been also in the habit of playing a game at whist every night.
“And it is curious,” he said, “that one night, just as he had said, ‘Clubs were trumps!’ and won the game, he fell back in his chair and expired!”
Curran, who had not been yet, said a good thing, instantly observed, “Baronet, you surely have made a mistake: he must have said ‘Spades were trumps,’” and pointed significantly towards the ground, as if in the act of digging.
The Reform Club, London
I never tire of the British sense of humor - subtle, dry and observational.
Here's a little ditty certain card players might appreciate:
Sir Francis Burdett one evening was speaking most affectionately of his grandfather; and, among other agreeable recollections of the days of his boyhood, he stated that his progenitor had been also in the habit of playing a game at whist every night.
“And it is curious,” he said, “that one night, just as he had said, ‘Clubs were trumps!’ and won the game, he fell back in his chair and expired!”
Curran, who had not been yet, said a good thing, instantly observed, “Baronet, you surely have made a mistake: he must have said ‘Spades were trumps,’” and pointed significantly towards the ground, as if in the act of digging.
The Reform Club, London
July 17, 2013
The All-Seeing Eye - New Release!
After writing this story, I've decided reading other people's thoughts would not be such a great thing. Give me some other super-power please.
Here's a short excerpt from the story, which will be available tomorrow.
Isadora Chapman pretended wide-eyed innocence as she avoided the milling crowds and if someone accidentally made eye contact, she hurriedly looked away. Sometimes she feared people would look her in the eye and know—
They would know she knew all of their secrets.
She had learned to control and hide her gift at a very young age, which is why she remained anonymous to the group of scholars who formed the Society for the Advancement of Science. They knew her as I, the ninth member of the secret society dedicated to the non-traditional sciences.
Few would actually call the academics within the group scientists. Most preferred terms such as charlatan, fool, demon and lunatic.
Isadora was none of those things, only a woman who remained alone because she knew things she ought not.
She knew Lord Hadley spied for the French during the Napoleonic Wars and worried still he might be exposed.
She knew Albert Finch had murdered his first wife.
She knew about ton affairs. About sexual peccadilloes. About betrayal. And heartache.
She knew her father worried about their finances. And her mother worried about her father.
She also knew Gregory Beckwith, the Earl of Lattham, was the finest man in London—honorable and with a heart full of fiery compassion. He had a unique gift for mechanical gadgetry which fascinated her, but just as he thought of one astonishing thing, he would move on to another and she never really could grasp the concepts floating around in his head.
Strange she could so easily forgive him for his ability to charm women into his bed and for his inability to see his family wanted him to marry and provide heirs.
Lattham did not know she was alive. Here's the cover. Another winner from Reese Dante.
Here's a short excerpt from the story, which will be available tomorrow.
Isadora Chapman pretended wide-eyed innocence as she avoided the milling crowds and if someone accidentally made eye contact, she hurriedly looked away. Sometimes she feared people would look her in the eye and know—
They would know she knew all of their secrets.
She had learned to control and hide her gift at a very young age, which is why she remained anonymous to the group of scholars who formed the Society for the Advancement of Science. They knew her as I, the ninth member of the secret society dedicated to the non-traditional sciences.
Few would actually call the academics within the group scientists. Most preferred terms such as charlatan, fool, demon and lunatic.
Isadora was none of those things, only a woman who remained alone because she knew things she ought not.
She knew Lord Hadley spied for the French during the Napoleonic Wars and worried still he might be exposed.
She knew Albert Finch had murdered his first wife.
She knew about ton affairs. About sexual peccadilloes. About betrayal. And heartache.
She knew her father worried about their finances. And her mother worried about her father.
She also knew Gregory Beckwith, the Earl of Lattham, was the finest man in London—honorable and with a heart full of fiery compassion. He had a unique gift for mechanical gadgetry which fascinated her, but just as he thought of one astonishing thing, he would move on to another and she never really could grasp the concepts floating around in his head.
Strange she could so easily forgive him for his ability to charm women into his bed and for his inability to see his family wanted him to marry and provide heirs.
Lattham did not know she was alive. Here's the cover. Another winner from Reese Dante.
July 12, 2013
The Ball Room
Enjoy this entry regarding the ball room and proper etiquette.
Chesterfield says, “dancing is one of those established follies, to which people of sense are sometimes obliged to conform.”
It is usual, at public balls, to appoint a master of the ceremonies, and stewards to regulate them: if you wish to dance with any lady with whom you are unacquainted, you must apply to the master of ceremonies for an introduction; and if there be no manifest difference of station, he will introduce you.
A few words respecting dress and dancing may not be here irrelevant. In addition to what has been said, you will always where white, or light-colored gloves, at a ball.
Do not dance a quadrille or contre dance unless you have some knowledge of the figure. In dancing, let your steps be few, but well and easily performed, and prefer the elegant to the ostentatious; lead your partner gracefully through the figure, lightly taking her hand. When the dance is concluded, conduct her to a seat, and pay her those attentions which will suggest themselves to ever body but the most uncultivated boor – she may require her shawl, a scarf, refreshment – these you may suggest without being improperly assiduous.
Neither in a ball-room, nor in any other public place, be too ready to take offence at imaginary slights, or even at apparent rudeness. Extreme cases may occur which demand notice; but an intentional insult is rarely given; if such should occur, the presence of ladies should make you notice so slight that none but the aggressor should be aware of it; a contrary line of conduct will not add to your reputation for courage or gallantry. A well-bred woman will not thank you for making her a spectacle in a public room, but will assuredly blame your rashness, unless the case be one of unqualified indecorum; even then, (if it be possible,) a man of true courage will disguise his resentment, and seek a proper time for explanation.
Should a lady decline dancing with you, and afterwards dance with another person, you will not be offended, if you will suffer yourself to reflect on the many reasons which may have induced the apparent rudeness. Personal preference, and the various emotions which may agitate the female, heart will furnish abundant cause for her decision, without her considering you either a fool or a boor, both of which characters she would infallibly attach to you, if, by indecorous conduct on the occasion, you thwarted her wishes; whereas, by a judicious blindness you will probably secure her respect. Recollect, the desire of imparting pleasure, especially to the fair sex, is one of the essential qualifications of a gentleman.
If a lady be engaged when you request her to dance, and you have obtained her promise for the succeeding dance, be sure to be in attendance, and avoid the appearance of neglect. No excuse can be sufficient apology for forgetfulness.
From: Pocket Book of Etiquette Gentleman's - 1840
Chesterfield says, “dancing is one of those established follies, to which people of sense are sometimes obliged to conform.”
It is usual, at public balls, to appoint a master of the ceremonies, and stewards to regulate them: if you wish to dance with any lady with whom you are unacquainted, you must apply to the master of ceremonies for an introduction; and if there be no manifest difference of station, he will introduce you.
A few words respecting dress and dancing may not be here irrelevant. In addition to what has been said, you will always where white, or light-colored gloves, at a ball.
Do not dance a quadrille or contre dance unless you have some knowledge of the figure. In dancing, let your steps be few, but well and easily performed, and prefer the elegant to the ostentatious; lead your partner gracefully through the figure, lightly taking her hand. When the dance is concluded, conduct her to a seat, and pay her those attentions which will suggest themselves to ever body but the most uncultivated boor – she may require her shawl, a scarf, refreshment – these you may suggest without being improperly assiduous.
Neither in a ball-room, nor in any other public place, be too ready to take offence at imaginary slights, or even at apparent rudeness. Extreme cases may occur which demand notice; but an intentional insult is rarely given; if such should occur, the presence of ladies should make you notice so slight that none but the aggressor should be aware of it; a contrary line of conduct will not add to your reputation for courage or gallantry. A well-bred woman will not thank you for making her a spectacle in a public room, but will assuredly blame your rashness, unless the case be one of unqualified indecorum; even then, (if it be possible,) a man of true courage will disguise his resentment, and seek a proper time for explanation.
Should a lady decline dancing with you, and afterwards dance with another person, you will not be offended, if you will suffer yourself to reflect on the many reasons which may have induced the apparent rudeness. Personal preference, and the various emotions which may agitate the female, heart will furnish abundant cause for her decision, without her considering you either a fool or a boor, both of which characters she would infallibly attach to you, if, by indecorous conduct on the occasion, you thwarted her wishes; whereas, by a judicious blindness you will probably secure her respect. Recollect, the desire of imparting pleasure, especially to the fair sex, is one of the essential qualifications of a gentleman.
If a lady be engaged when you request her to dance, and you have obtained her promise for the succeeding dance, be sure to be in attendance, and avoid the appearance of neglect. No excuse can be sufficient apology for forgetfulness.
From: Pocket Book of Etiquette Gentleman's - 1840
June 7, 2013
Vacations Aren't For Amateurs
If I weren’t a writer and I didn’t have a mortgage to pay along with an EDJ that requires my attendance, I would be a professional vacationer.
Vacationing requires a certain joie de vivre. An attitude of easy come, easy go. The uptightness and stress of life must be left behind. I’m not saying you can’t go on vacation and load up your schedule with a hundred things to do like mosquito-laden boating, salt-chaffed beach faring or toe-losing mountain climbing. Go for it. Just don’t call it a vacation.One must be a pro at relaxing, drinking and general ne’er-do-welling to be a professional vacationer. Once you arrive at your vacation destination, you must shed this need to do something. Don’t be pressured by the children. Hand them over to the resort’s activity director.You, my friend, must find a cabana, a lounger, a poolside bar. Just don’t be pressured into anything that requires more than a jaunt from your hotel room door to the amenities outside. If you can’t get to it barefoot, don’t go. If it requires the application of make-up, don’t go. If both hands are required to carry things, don’t go.Once you arrive at your spot, stake your claim. Move a few chairs to cordon off your area. Learn the names of the poolside help. Then. Then sit back and take a deep breath of air. Crack open your book and lay it over your chest. Close your eyes.You are almost there. Feel it? Yep, that’s professional vacationing.There are exceptions to the rules. If someone says David Gandy is walking along the beach alone, then you may abandon your professional vacation plans and join him for a walk and anything that follows.The next morning, you may easily return to your professional vacationing routine.
Vacationing requires a certain joie de vivre. An attitude of easy come, easy go. The uptightness and stress of life must be left behind. I’m not saying you can’t go on vacation and load up your schedule with a hundred things to do like mosquito-laden boating, salt-chaffed beach faring or toe-losing mountain climbing. Go for it. Just don’t call it a vacation.One must be a pro at relaxing, drinking and general ne’er-do-welling to be a professional vacationer. Once you arrive at your vacation destination, you must shed this need to do something. Don’t be pressured by the children. Hand them over to the resort’s activity director.You, my friend, must find a cabana, a lounger, a poolside bar. Just don’t be pressured into anything that requires more than a jaunt from your hotel room door to the amenities outside. If you can’t get to it barefoot, don’t go. If it requires the application of make-up, don’t go. If both hands are required to carry things, don’t go.Once you arrive at your spot, stake your claim. Move a few chairs to cordon off your area. Learn the names of the poolside help. Then. Then sit back and take a deep breath of air. Crack open your book and lay it over your chest. Close your eyes.You are almost there. Feel it? Yep, that’s professional vacationing.There are exceptions to the rules. If someone says David Gandy is walking along the beach alone, then you may abandon your professional vacation plans and join him for a walk and anything that follows.The next morning, you may easily return to your professional vacationing routine.
May 16, 2013
The Guy Appeal
Surely someone else feels the same way I do.
It really isn't all about looks, is it?
There is this class of men who really aren't that handsome but everything about them screams "You want me and you know it." When you see them, you tilt your head. You ask yourself "What is it about him?"
Here's my list and why:
1) Jason Stratham
I'm going to say Jason's accent has a little something to do with his sexy. He is built very nicely too. I really can't help but like a semi-balding 40-something whose nickname in a movie is Handsome Rob. I think the screenwriters understood Jason's appeal. I'd be willing to ride in his trunk.
2) Channing Tatum
I know. I know. There is a group of women who are going to read this post and scream. They think Channing is a hot fudge sundae smothered over a bag of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Yes, he is that yummy but not at all in the form of a classically beautiful man. Channing's appeal to me is his smoothness - from the way he can dance, to the way he can rock a suit and when I see him cuddle in front of the camera with his wife, my ovaries nearly burst.
3) Matthew Broderick
Matthew gets a higher grade then he ought because of Ferris Beuhler but that's a story for another blog. Matthew has boyish appeal and, yes, you do have to look past his too long, middle-aged hair. But admit it, you watched the Honda CR-V commercial more than once. You want him to be the friend you get into trouble with.
4) Vince Vaughn
Even as I write Vince's name, I ask myself why I'm putting him on the list. He's the good friend, the naughty storyteller, the guy who will always be there. Nope. Not in any way attractive but I have to ask, "What is it about that guy?"
5) David Gandy
Haha! I threw him in to see if you were paying attention. I could rhapsodize all day about David but I will say this: If you take away Gandy's looks you still have a super nice guy with a great sense of style. Oh, and the accent. Foreplay with David would include him reciting the phone book. The picture below was the most unattractive I've ever seen David. :)
I'm curious about who else should be on this list and why.
It really isn't all about looks, is it?
There is this class of men who really aren't that handsome but everything about them screams "You want me and you know it." When you see them, you tilt your head. You ask yourself "What is it about him?"
Here's my list and why:
1) Jason Stratham
I'm going to say Jason's accent has a little something to do with his sexy. He is built very nicely too. I really can't help but like a semi-balding 40-something whose nickname in a movie is Handsome Rob. I think the screenwriters understood Jason's appeal. I'd be willing to ride in his trunk.
2) Channing Tatum
I know. I know. There is a group of women who are going to read this post and scream. They think Channing is a hot fudge sundae smothered over a bag of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Yes, he is that yummy but not at all in the form of a classically beautiful man. Channing's appeal to me is his smoothness - from the way he can dance, to the way he can rock a suit and when I see him cuddle in front of the camera with his wife, my ovaries nearly burst.
3) Matthew Broderick
Matthew gets a higher grade then he ought because of Ferris Beuhler but that's a story for another blog. Matthew has boyish appeal and, yes, you do have to look past his too long, middle-aged hair. But admit it, you watched the Honda CR-V commercial more than once. You want him to be the friend you get into trouble with.
4) Vince Vaughn
Even as I write Vince's name, I ask myself why I'm putting him on the list. He's the good friend, the naughty storyteller, the guy who will always be there. Nope. Not in any way attractive but I have to ask, "What is it about that guy?"
5) David Gandy
Haha! I threw him in to see if you were paying attention. I could rhapsodize all day about David but I will say this: If you take away Gandy's looks you still have a super nice guy with a great sense of style. Oh, and the accent. Foreplay with David would include him reciting the phone book. The picture below was the most unattractive I've ever seen David. :)
I'm curious about who else should be on this list and why.
May 14, 2013
The All-Seeing Eye Cover Art
I feel very fortunate to have had some excellent cover art for the eight novellas and novels I have published. The latest is in and Reese Dante has done it again.
Isadora Chapman is the all-seeing eye. She is also a member of the Society for the Advancement of Science. She is I - the ninth member of the society and the only one who must remain anonymous. Such a gift could be exploited. Such a gift should not belong to an unprotected society miss.
She has sworn to never her use her abilities for her own gain but the thoughts of one man keep her awake at night.
Coming Soon!
Here's a little snippet:
Isadora Chapman had learned to control and hide her gift at a very young age, which is why she remained anonymous to the group of professionals who formed the Society for the Advancement of Science.
Few would actually call the academics within the group scientists. Most preferred terms such as charlatan, fool, demon and lunatic.
Isadora was none of those things, only a woman who remained alone because she knew things she ought not.
She knew that Lord Hadley spied for the French during the Napoleonic Wars and worried still that he might be exposed.
She knew that Albert Finch had murdered his first wife.
She knew about ton affairs. About sexual peccadilloes. About betrayal and heartache.
She knew that her father worried about their finances. And her mother worried about her father.
She also knew that Gregory Beckwith, the Earl of Lattham, was the finest man in London—honorable, a bit rakish and with a heart full of fiery compassion.
But he did not know she was alive.
Isadora Chapman is the all-seeing eye. She is also a member of the Society for the Advancement of Science. She is I - the ninth member of the society and the only one who must remain anonymous. Such a gift could be exploited. Such a gift should not belong to an unprotected society miss.
She has sworn to never her use her abilities for her own gain but the thoughts of one man keep her awake at night.
Coming Soon!
Here's a little snippet:
Isadora Chapman had learned to control and hide her gift at a very young age, which is why she remained anonymous to the group of professionals who formed the Society for the Advancement of Science.
Few would actually call the academics within the group scientists. Most preferred terms such as charlatan, fool, demon and lunatic.
Isadora was none of those things, only a woman who remained alone because she knew things she ought not.
She knew that Lord Hadley spied for the French during the Napoleonic Wars and worried still that he might be exposed.
She knew that Albert Finch had murdered his first wife.
She knew about ton affairs. About sexual peccadilloes. About betrayal and heartache.
She knew that her father worried about their finances. And her mother worried about her father.
She also knew that Gregory Beckwith, the Earl of Lattham, was the finest man in London—honorable, a bit rakish and with a heart full of fiery compassion.
But he did not know she was alive.
April 27, 2013
David Gandy - Memes Don't Lie
Some of the Gandy memes are hilarious and so, so true. I've collected a few for your entertainment.
