Thank you to everyone who left such lovely comments about the cover of Mr Darcy's Secret. I'm thrilled that you all like it as much as I do! I've been very busy writing a short story for an Austen Anthology which Laurel Ann of Austenprose has put together, I've just finished another book which I'm now editing, and I've recently joined a new blog of Austen Authors - but more of that later!
I've also just come back from my summer holiday, and was feeling very rested until I realised that it's now payback time. Mountains of washing later, and still plenty to go, I'm wondering why I always think it's a good idea to take so many clothes. But, I'll stop moaning, I had a lovely time, and the memory of wonderful Spanish sunshine and food will stay with me for a long time.
Before I went away, I had a real treat in the form of a day out at Longbourn - Afternoon Tea with Mrs Bennet, no less, who I have to say was far too young and the epitome of a gracious hostess to take after her namesake. But, I digress!
P and P Tours run the event, and as with everything they do, it is always a delight with the wonderful team of Helen and Maddy. The only drawback was the rain which steadily poured down, but nothing could spoil our pleasure, and by the end of the afternoon we saw sunshine again which made everyone extra happy.
I've got so many lovely photos that I shall have to do a few posts to do them justice. If you remember the wonderful BBC Colin Firth/Jennifer Ehle production of Pride and Prejudice you will certainly recognise the Bennet's house at Longbourn. Set in the real Wiltshire village of Luckington the owners today allow public access only through P and P tours and we all felt very privileged to be shown round. It was even more beautiful than in the series, and it was such fun to spot everything. You can imagine, I had to completely watch the re-run of the adaptation when I got home. We started off in the church which you can see above - but I'll leave it there for now - more next time!
Notice the lovely Bennet sisters in the photo - Helen and Maddy are third and fourth from the left and the other girls are participating guests who got to dress up for the day. Don't they all look wonderful?