Dear readers!! I’m so excited to welcome the lovely Pamela Aidan to Austenesque Reviews today! She just celebrated the release of two Christmas-inspired P&P stories recently – A Proper Darcy Christmas and Lessons in Honour.
But her biggest and most well-known contribution to the word of Austenesque is her Darcy POV retelling Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman Trilogy which was first published in 2003! Pamela is here today to talk about Jane Austen, her own writing, and Christmas! We hope you enjoy! 🙌🏼
Hi Pamela, this opportunity to sit down and have this little chat with you feels like a special holiday gift! I’ve been a long time admirer of your works, and remember how excited I was to have you sign them for me when we met at the Decatur Book Festival back in 2012! (My goodness, that was longer ago than I realized!)
For any readers who are not yet acquainted with your Austen-inspired stories, how about we begin by chatting a little bit about how you found Jane Austen and what led you to write the fabulous Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman Trilogy?
I discovered Jane Austen in high school as a result of my own quest to read the classics of literature. I
had happened upon Georgette Heyer at a bookstore a year earlier and quickly devoured her Regency and Georgian era novels. So, when I started on my quest to read “literature” my plan was no more thought out than to start alphabetically. Austen was the first in the list! Within only a few pages, it was obvious where Heyer had her found inspiration. As the movie title so aptly declared, I was “Lost in Austen” from that time forward.
The initial purpose of writing the FDG trilogy was to discover for myself what exactly lay behind Darcy’s change of character in P&P. Austen delves deeply into Elizabeth’s change, but Darcy’change is not nearly as defined for one that is so counter to Austen’s portrayal before their meeting at Rosings Park. This had not concerned me until the 1995 BBC movie, in which Colin Firth’s Darcy depicted a man of intelligence and capable of emotion, a three-dimensional characterization! Suddenly, I wanted to know how this character changed so drastically into the one who would rescue Lydia Bennet, tie himself to his worst enemy, and work so diligently to become a man who Elizabeth would admire, all without expectation that she would ever know.
Although I had not written anything beyond college papers at that point, I was driven to write just to discover how it all could have happened. So, the Trilogy was a work of love for this wonderful novel that has developed a life of its own and continues to inspire many to complete the picture it presents of life and love.
I love that we share such a similar path to discovering Jane Austen! And that you decided to write the FDG trilogy as a way to answer your own questions about Mr. Darcy. Congratulations on your release of A Proper Darcy Christmas! I was so thrilled to learn that you were working on a new holiday novella! What was your inspiration for this story? It sounds like it is a Pride and Prejudice sequel that spotlights Georgiana and maybe has some intrigue…
A long time ago I promised a book on Dy Brougham and Georgiana’s romance, so it was the next book to be written. I’d not done any writing since the publication of Young Master Darcy (Recently republished as Lessons in Honour) 12 years ago because my new job as a library director was all consuming. Now that I’ve retired, it was time to get back to writing. With the encouragement of my friends, Laura Hile (Step Lively, Mr. Darcy) and Susan Kaye (Wentworth’s Christmas Wish), this past spring, a Christmas novella became the logical step for a timely re-entry into a P&P variation.
So, it’s December 1813 and Elizabeth is about to give birth to their first child when a stranger, a young French count, is stranded at Pemberley’s gate. Georgiana has had her first Season without being impressed by any of the aspirants to her hand, but this young nobleman with an intriguing past and the face and address of an “angel” shows up at Pemberley in a snowstorm and quite turns her head. But who is he? Who is best able to find out? Lord Dyfed Brougham, His Majesty’s agent, of course.
Lord Dyfed Brougham!!! Yes, let’s talk about Dy. Can you share a little bit about your inspiration for the character Lord Dyfed Brougham? What do you love most about writing for this character?
It was certain, in my mind, that part of the answer to how Darcy changed would lie in the need for a sounding board, someone who he respected and could stand up to him in the search for a new understanding of himself and the world. Bingley, depicted as his only friend during the time of the P&P, was not that person. A new friend with a solid history between them was needed. But, how to explain this important character’s absence in P&P? Voila! Dyfed Brougham, former close university friend and later spy was born! His character, like Darcy’s valet Fletcher, developed rapidly, almost full-blown from the start. Only after the books were published did I recognize elements of Sir Percy Blakeney, the Scarlet Pimpernel, in Brougham. What do I NOT love about writing Dy Brougham? His intelligence, his insight into the human condition, his wit, his faith, and how he can severely, yet lovingly, take down Darcy when he needs it. And then he unexpectedly falls into love with a girl he has known since her childhood. Suddenly, to his own astonishment and then joy, he’s like the rest of mankind!
Swoon! I’m so excited to encounter Lord Dyfed again on page! As an author who has been a part of the Austenesque community from its early days, what are some differences or changes you’ve observed from the earlier days to now?
The biggest differences IMHO are a result of the chemistry of what inspires the variation: the book, the 1980 series, the 1995 series or the 2005 movie, and the age of the author, either in real time or at the time of writing.
That the differences in depiction of the Darcys in each version influences how variations are written is plain to see. The age of the writer or when her variation was written may not be so.
For example, I’m almost 70 years old, my teen and young adult years were influenced by the America of the 50s. That is another era altogether than that of many current authors and readers, with a different understanding of societal norms. Even though I was 45 when I started writing the Trilogy in 1996, my understanding was much closer to those of 1812 than those now. This was strongly brought home to me when readers began asking of Austen and variation authors what the big deal was about Lydia running off with Wickham and why did it matter to the family, or the neighbors, or to Darcy?
So contemporary variation authors must either educate readers about past moral standards to begin to understand Austen or they assume a current one which seriously changes the complexion of their take on the Austen story and where it will go. Either way the basics of Austen’s story, like Shakespeare’s plays, are highly adaptable (watch Brides and Prejudice—which I love–as an example!) because they address the human need for love, family, redemptions, and community.
It fascinating how much has changed in the world since 1996 and how often nowadays we see frequent resurgences of Jane Austen’s popularity. What is next for you, Pamela? Any other projects in the works?
Yes, a full-length novel : Love and Honour that begins in August 1814, and will eventually give a happy ending to Col. Fitzwilliam and Charlotte (Lucas) Collins. “War and Widowhood, Treachery and Two-year-olds, Rescue, Refuge and Recovery.” Interested? The Darcys and the Westmarches will be integral to the story as well. Target date is this summer, 2023. The cover is already in production.
This all sounds so wonderful! I cannot wait! How about we switch it up with some Christmas-
Inspired Quick-Fire Questions? 🎄
– What is one of your favorite Christmas songs? Traditional: What Child Is This? Modern: Mary Did You Know?
– What is one of your favorite Christmas movies? A Christmas Carol w/ George C. Scott as Scrooge
– What is one of your favorite Christmas books? A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
– If you could celebrate Christmas anywhere in the world, where would choose to go? London or Oxford for shopping, touring churches, & attending Christmas plays and concerts, then for the 12 days of Christmas celebrating and relaxing in a country manor or a cozy village.
– What is your favorite thing to eat/cook/bake during the Christmas season? Fruitcake and Pecan Pie
– What is one of your favorite Christmas traditions? Attending Christmas Eve church service
– Which older Christmas tradition do you wish was more popular now? Ringing of church bells any time, but especially on Christmas. So few churches even have bells anymore.
– Which Christmas tradition do you think the Darcys would most enjoy? Hosting the extended family and creating/putting on plays and charades.
– If Jane Austen was on your gift list for Christmas, what present would you give her this year? A book of reader’s testimonies on what her works have meant to them and how they have changed their lives. I’ve received a few emails and letters like this, and I treasure them—for what more could a writer hope?
Just fantastic answers all around, Pamela! Thank you so much! I loved our chat and I’m so happy to know more about you, your writing, and your new release – A Proper Darcy Christmas! Wishing you and yours a very happy Christmas filled with comforts and joys of the season! 🫶🏼
~~~
GIVEAWAY TIME!!!
Today Pamela brings with her 1️⃣ ebook edition of A Proper Darcy Christmas for me to giveaway to 1 lucky reader Woot woot!
To enter this giveaway leave a comment, question, or some love for Pamela below!
- This giveaway is open worldwide. Thank you, Pamela!
- This giveaway ends December 27th.
The FDG Trilogy was my first exposure to Jane Austen variations, and I love it! When I saw you released a couple new books on KU recently, I was very excited!
Your excitement is a wonderful encouragement! Thank you!!
Pamela’s trilogy was one of the first JA variations/sequels I read, and remains in my mind one of the best. I love how she developed Austen’s characters further, and the new characters (especially Dy and Fletcher and Sylvanie) were wonderful. I am excited to read this story and her new WIP. Thank you, Pamela, for writing again!
It is my pleasure, Sallianne! I wasn’t sure that I would be remembered after so many years. Your enjoyment of the trilogy is so uplifting! Thank you.
I loved the FDG trilogy; it’s one of my favorites and one of the first variations I read. I’m very happy that Pamela has released her new book. I would love a chance to win a copy! I also want to read the prequel, Lessons in Honour. Thanks for the giveaway!
Thanks so much for the compliments! The Trilogy being one of the first variations you read is an honor. Let me know what you think of these two new books.
The hardest, hardest thing is to begin writing again after a long absence. Congratulations to you, Pamela, for persevering. Readers everywhere are cheering!
A blessed Christmas to you and your family.
And you were witness to what a tough effort is was, especially at first! Thanks for the pushing, prodding, and encouragement, Laura!
I already have Pamela’s new novella. Now I just have to find time to read it. So glad she started writing again.
As always, as a fellow JAFF writer, I’m especially interested in your evaluation, Brenda. Hope you enjoy it!
I loved “A Proper Darcy Christmas”! I’m hoping you’ll develop the Lord Dyfed/Georgiana story further in new works — he’s such a terrific, innovative character. It would be great to learn more about Fletcher’s background as well. Dy and Fletcher are such rich new characters, I’d love to see where you go with them.
What fun that would be! Dy will be playing an important, though not a main part, in Love and Honour, coming out Summer 2023. Once Col. Fitzwilliam and Charlotte Collins are settled, Lord Brougham (now Westmarch) might need a story all his own. We’ll see.
I would love that! I can’t wait for the new work.
I first read Pamela’s Trilogy many years ago, and, of course, loved it. It didn’t occur to me at that time, that she started me on the adventure of reading more than 700 P and P variations. I now have her latest book and I am so thrilled to have her back and can’t wait to read her book coming out next Summer. Welcome back, Pamela, and please continue with your wonderful books.
Thank you so very much, Roberta! I can’t tell you how honored and pleased I am to have launched you into this wonderful world. See you this summer with Love and Honour!
Like others here, the trilogy introduced me to P&P variations and still one of my favorites! I’ve read and loved A Proper Darcy Christmas as well. Thanks for the wonderful stories!
My pleasure, Nancy. The trilogy was a labor of love that has made me many reading friends. So glad you are among them!
I have read the Trilogy’s at least twice and so loved Darcy’s POV. I think it was the first books that I read in JAFF with his POV. I am so glad that you will be returning to your writing craft and thank you for the giveaway.
You are very welcome. So glad we’ve touched base again!
Pamela’s trilogy has always been one of my favorites. I’m so happy to see her return to the JAFF world. I can’t wait to read the newest book. Thanks for the chance to win a copy! I hope everyone has a very Merry and Blessed Christmas.
I’m so honored and pleased to be a favorite. Hope you enjoy the new book!
My JAFF TBR mountain will never be conquered with so many great books like these coming out.
I, too, was raised in the 50’s and early 60’s and sometimes feel lost with the newer variations from younger writers e.g., the inclusion of vampires or dragons or steampunk–whatever that is! Congrats on a new release–it is on my wish list!
Here’s wishing your wish comes true! Thank you, Jennette.
Now I have to put your books on my wish list. Congrats on your new book!
Thanks, Julie.
I scooped this up when I saw it had been released, so please don’t enter me in the giveaway. I just wanted to echo the enthusiasm for this novella, Pamela’s writing in general, and more Lord Dyfed Brougham!
You are so kind, Amy! Thanks for scooping! 🙂
Thank you for bringing a new to me author, I had missed her trilogy but now have added it to my read list.
I’m honored, Glory. Thanks for taking a chance on me.
Pamela Aidan’s trilogy remains at the top of my favorites list and is what I recommend to those who are new to JAFF. Thrilled to see her return!
Aww, thanks so much. You’re so kind!!
Enjoyed the interview and agree with you about church bells. I miss this as well. Thanks for the giveaway!
My pleasure. If only the bells could return!
I read Pamela Aidan’s book so long ago that if I picked them up again now it would be like an entire new series to me. I got the first in paperback which tells me how long ago it was. I was still reading in paperback, which I find really difficult now. I have replaced it with the ebook versions so I am making it a goal to reread the trilogy this year. They are nearly the bedrock of JAFF. I am so very glad Pamela is still writing, and looking forward the the Christmas books and even more this summer of ’23’s publication. What a great thing to look forward to. Great interview, ladies.
You are so very welcome, Michelle! I’m so glad to hear from “old-timers” that remember those heady days when the Trilogy first came out.
I really loved this interview. I’m so happy to hear Pamela has a new book. I read her trilogy many years ago and they are still one of my favorite JAFF books. Her books made me love to read Mr. Darcy POV novels. Congratulations on this newest release. –Leslie
Thank you for your congratulations, Leslie. I’m so honored that my books had such an impact!
Lovely interview and cover !
I agree! Meredith is a wonderful interviewer and the cover design company did a fantastic job!
Read and loved the trilogy many years ago, long before I got my first Kindle. Looking forward to reading Pamela’s new book!
Thanks so much, Cath. Hope you enjoy this new offering!
Read and enjoyed the trilogy in paperback years ago and have read the one featured here also. Merry Christmas to all who celebrate and Happy Holidays to those who celebrate other holidays.
Thanks for good word, Sheila!
Wow, I am really impressed your thoughts and journey through the Austen World. I am eager to read both A Proper Darcy Christmas and Lessons in Honor – books, such as these, carry special meaning and insights that I am very appreciative of. Thank you for your wonderful work.
What wonderful support, Frankie! Thanks so much
And I’m 80 and have enjoyed your variations since the beginning. Indeed, there were so few then and I read so quickly, I read and reread collection of all I could find then, some as many as eight times plus. I didn’t keep track for the first few months.
Thank you for the pleasant times over the years.
You are SO welcome and I’m so happy to have filled your hours with joy!
Your trilogy introduced me to the world of Jane Austen variations! I read them regularly, and when I read Pride and Prejudice, I find myself filling in Mr. Darcy’s POV. I am thrilled to see another story of yours with new and old characters I love so much.
Thank you for news of past enjoyment and anticipation of new. It’s wonderful to call up the “gang” again!
Hi Pamela, I’m so glad to know you! Your FDG trilogy was the first austenesque series I read as well as Julia Barrett’s novels and I could enjoyed your trilogy in spanish so these books are among my “treasures” 🙂
It’s exciting to have you with a new novel which looks charming. What a good idea to have Lord Dyfed Brougham back again!
Thank you for the giveaway and Merry Christmas from Spain!
And Happy New Year, Teresa! Thanks for such a lovely tribute!
That was an excellent interview and welcome back to writing Austenesque magic! One of those theories about adaptations is that the first one someone sees is the one they like the most, and I think in general it holds true. I love how that is extended into the writing of JAFF, and in those I’ve read thus far I can usually tell which P&P or other adaptation influenced the writer. For me, as a reader, I am still bound to the 1995 P&P; however, it is much more loose of a bond nowadays so it’s easier to see the other adaptations. My question is if any of the other adaptations besides 1995 and Bride and Prejudice influenced your recent Christmas pieces. Thank you for answering this question in advance!
Hi Jen! Good question!! Only the 1995 had “influence” on me, and that was primarily through presenting the idea that Darcy had an emotional life and that life was only possible to make manifest with looking at other parts of and events in his life. Bride and Prejudice was just a fun movie, but it did point out how adaptable P&P could be and yet still be faithful to Austen’s story and the conventions of the era. The bigger influence in my writing is the Regency novels of Georgette Heyer, especially in speech patterns and the world of the upper class.
So excited to get a Georgiana/ Dy storyline. The juxtaposition of the older man who knows himself but must disguise himself and the younger woman discovering herself is a sweet and satisfying tale. It is a journey we all take. And as someone 60+, I am now watching that self discovery journey in younger relatives while benefiting from the self possession age provides. Thank you for your efforts and the gift of a new book.
Thank you so much, Adelle! I was concerned that the age difference would dissuade some readers, but I think the story has overcome.