When I write about tea-drinking in my novels, I am thinking of tea grown in China or India, but last week I visited the only tea plantation in North America. The Charleston Tea Plantation is located on Wadmalaw Island about 20 miles south of Charleston, South Carolina. I was in Charleston for a retreat with my Literary Agency (Books & Such) and enjoyed spending time with agents and … [Read more...]

This last week I spoke at three libraries (Alexandria, Fergus Falls, and Elbow Lake, MN), which I greatly enjoyed. The events were well-attended and everyone was friendly and interested. Meeting the helpful staffs and many readers was a blessing and an encouragement to me as a writer. But the coolest part? One of the libraries has a secret room! I have long been intrigued by hidden … [Read more...]

As an author, I like all the published editions: paperback, hardcover, international versions, large print, and collections. But my favorite version? Audiobooks. I know people who listen to them while sewing, exercising, or even cleaning house. I don't do any of those things (at least not often enough :)) but I love listening in the car—and not only on long trips. I don't like driving in general, … [Read more...]

I have to do a lot of research to write novels set in England in the early 19th century. Some books have been more difficult to research than others (The most challenging: The Apothecary's Daughter. The most fun: The Maid of Fairbourne Hall.) But after thirteen novels, there is still one historical tidbit in a novel of mine that stirs more discussion and raises more questions than any other. … [Read more...]

But indeed I would rather have nothing but tea.” —Jane Austen, Mansfield Park On Saturday, I attended another great meeting of the Jane Austen Society of North America, Minnesota Region. This month's topic was "An Exploration of Teas," followed by an afternoon-tea-inspired lunch. Since my friend Kristine has hosted me for many a tea party, I took her along as my guest. Our speaker was … [Read more...]