Author: kimbelle1
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When Mercury was a Cure-all
Everyone who reads my books knows that I have the Miss Bennets, particularly Mary, and, at times, Charlotte Lucas to be extraordinarily capable alchemists in the stillroom. Rarely is it without a later purpose, from scented waters that may be included in travel kits to medicinals that Miss Kitty needs to ease her cough to…
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Tart Treats
In summer months, fruit desserts are always colorful and delicious, and one of my favorites is the tart, making me ponder its history and how available they were during the Regency. They were often found on the table for special days and included among the desserts, though I did not find them listed in the…
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The Wonders of the Royal Menagerie
So many books set in the Regency mention the Royal Menagerie that I could not resist learning how close my imagination and other authors are to the real deal. What I did not realize was that there were two places to see exotic animals in London. The Tower of London housed animals for much of…
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Beekeeping is all the Buzz!
My mother spins honey all summer long as she and my stepdad have a honey business. She used her own honey when she made mead after I wrote the blog After Dinner Drinks, and I can vouch that many recipes in The Elder Scrolls: The Official Cookbook were as delicious as we had hoped! Having…
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A Bud of This, A Leaf of That
For all the intent of my wishing to write a blog on a favorite recipe for tea in the Regency, I did not locate one; rather, I saw the hostess would blend the tea to her taste. That did not help me decide what one to try, so to the kitchen gardens I went. I…
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Birds of a Feather
When reading Austen novels and or fan fiction, I noticed there are many mentions of birds: gentlemen shooting birds or out with trained falcons, dining later on the foul, and later encountering a woman with ostentatious feathers in her headdress. These are details that make me go, “Hmm.” I learned these details are not simple…
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Translating Your JAFF Novel with Cristina Huelsz
As a Jane Austen fanfiction (JAFF) reader, one sees Cristina (Cristy) at web events, on Zoom meetings, and we see her posts on many of our favorite sites. But for those who are new to our sites or are just joining the JAFF community, Cristy is one of our most diverse members, as she offers…
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Decorating for the Holidays, Regency Style
As the season in which it is traditional to gather with family and friends continues, I cannot help but reflect on the similarities in decorations in the many countries where I have spent some or all of the season. From evergreen, faux, or real, to twinkling lights and windows decorated to look like a wrapped…
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Harvest Feastings Were Not to be Missed
As the holidays are upon us, thoughts naturally turn to family, friends, and food. These special traditions have lasted centuries. Harvests are always celebrated, regardless of culture. In the Regency era, novels mention balls, harvests, and parties particularly anticipated and enjoyed during the autumnal season. September 24th was associated with the harvest, though the harvesting…
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Regency Thrills and Chills
My two favorite holidays are Thanksgiving, for family and American-style football, and Halloween. The first has never caused another to even blink in surprise; the latter has caused more than one arched brow of consternation, given that I’m a wuss of the highest order. While none can convince me that IT is not waiting for…