Last night Monica Fairview (The Other Mr Darcy) and I went to the book launch of Dancing with Mr Darcy. If you haven't heard about this book before it's a selection of short stories inspired by Chawton and connections to Jane Austen. What is really worthwhile, I think, is that the proceeds of the book go back into Chawton House, which I'm sure you know was rescued, restored and turned into a library, which collects women's literature from 1600 - 1830 by the fabulous lady Sandy Lerner.
The book started as a competition where anyone who felt inspired could submit their short story with a chance of being published. I've bought the book, and very good it is too - it was lovely to meet some of the authors - I now have a signed copy! We thought you'd enjoy seeing the pictures as so many of you who visit my blog live so far away. I'm always fascinated by the number of different countries that visitors to my blog come from - UK, America, Sweden, Italy, France, Brazil, Spain, Germany, Australia, Phillipines, Russia, Denmark, Canada, India, Africa - to name but a few. I know you would all have loved to have been there last night, so I hope this gives a flavour of the evening.
The wonderful author Sarah Waters introduced the book to us all, and then the winner, Victoria Owens treated us to a splendid reading of her story.It was lovely to see Tom Carpenter from Jane Austen's House again as I haven't seen him for a while - there's another lovely place to visit. A few of the stories have the house as their inspiration. If you've ever been lucky enough to go and visit Jane's house you'll know what an inspiring place it is to visit. A thoroughly enjoyable evening was had by all - my congratulations to all involved - I wish you every success with the book and your future careers!
Photos:
The authors
Monica Fairview
Tom Carpenter and Jane Odiwe
Sarah Waters and Jane Odiwe