Sophia`s Letter by Elizabeth Donnehttps://bit.ly/3DkxjKS
In my sweet Regency novel, "Sophia`s Letter," the written correspondence between the hero and heroine plays a central role in the plot. You can read the first three chapters in the Amazon sample here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKG71KFK
In Regency times, without landlines, emails, or text messaging, letters were the go-to method for communication between businesses and households. In literature of that era, letters carried critical news of an inheritance or, perhaps, the longing sighs of parted lovers.
Letters can make for interesting plot-points. Whose handwriting is that? Why is this person suddenly writing to her if she hardly knows him?
We might assume then that envelopes might also hold promising mysteries in Regency literature, right? Oddly enough, the answer is, mostly, "no." Envelopes really only came into regular use in Victorian times.
This is what Wikipedia has to say on the matter:
"In Western history, from the time flexible writing material became more readily available in the 13th century until the mid-19th century, correspondence was typically secured by a process of letter folding and sealing which sometimes employed elaborate letterlocking techniques to indicate tampering or prove authenticity. Some of these techniques, which could involve stitching or wax seals, were also employed to secure hand-made envelopes."
- (2021, March 12). Envelope. Wikipedia. Retrieved April 12, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Envelope
Shannon Donnelly explains further:
"The letter itself differed from its modern form. The letter usually comprised a single sheet (sometimes folded once in the middle to make a booklet-like page). This was folded in thirds, then the ends were folded together, with one end tucked inside another. Hot wax dripped onto the joining ends sealed the letter.
- Shannon Donnelly. (2010, May 29). The Regency Post — A Pity We`ve Lost Letters. Shannon Donnelly`s Fresh Ink. Retrieved April 12, 2021, from https://shannondonnelly.com/2010/05/
We can see that it would be unusual for a Regency author to write a scene in which the heroine eagerly rips open an envelope. More li...
2 COMMENTS
Lori Leigh
18 years ago AUTHORHi Bonnie,
OMG, where would I start with the Laird series? It was a unique inspiration for a twist on a time travel plot that launched five wonderful books. Laird of the Game is the first book and it’s available at Amazon.com or Borders Bookstores.
I also have some fabulous new artwork on my website from English Graphic Artist Bez, so I hope you get a chance to drop by to the heroines in the Laird series.
My desire for today, is just to keep the house standing while I prepare jello for the Thanksgiving dinner! I am delighted that Amber, from Amber’s Kitchen is cooking dinner for tomorrow so I can come out to play. (I don’t know how she got the cooking gene – it’s a miracle!)
I’m great at folding napkins, and polishing silverware! People like you amaze me. I would rather write a computer training manual than arrange flowers, or try to find the right paint color for the dining room. It took me months to decide on a cashmere color with pearl trim. (For those who are wondering about this combination, think beige and white.) LOL
I did, however, find a wonderful wine to go along with dinner.
What’s cooking at your house?
Lori Leigh
Lori Leigh
18 years ago AUTHORThe covers for the books were designed by Patty Foltz, cover artist for Vintage Romance Publishing. We talked a lot about the book, and tried several other options. The basic elements of the book are on the cover – the castle, the handsome Laird, the American Tourist who stumbles into the midst of their game. I’m sure Patty still cringes when my name is mentioned, as I can be rather demanding when it comes to the cover. We designed a theme that will be carried through the series.
I also have a wonderful Editor, Dawn Carrington, who took a great book and made it even better! We cut the length down, and focused the story. Working with the Vintage staff has been a truly wonderful experience. I had all the right elements in place for a spectacular launch. My Publicist has been working overtime in getting my book out to the stores.
The next book in the series would probably already be on the shelf, if it hadn’t been for a heartbreaking experience…
Lori Leigh