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Pamela Sherwood | All Play and No Work...Make Jack a Dead Bore
November 18, 2013
Thank you for hosting me today on Fresh Fiction! As a reader and a writer, I have one major requirement where characters are
concerned: they must engage my interest. And the quickest way to accomplish that
is to do something interesting. Pursue a profession. Have a hobby. At the very
least, care about something beyond their needs and wants. Because characters who
are all about themselves? Boooring. In contemporary romance, no stigma attaches to couples who work and excel at
their jobs. In historical romance, it's a different kettle of fish:
gentlemen--especially landed, titled gentlemen--weren't supposed to work. Work
was for the lower classes or younger sons who, unlike their eldest brother,
couldn't depend on their expectations. And even then there were professions that
were considered "not quite the thing." The clergy, the army, the navy, and the
law were the most socially acceptable careers for surplus sons. Work that
involved physical labor or actually getting one's hands dirty? Perish the
thought! Even the arts--painting, writing, music--tended to be frowned upon,
once they became a means of earning money and not just a gentlemanly pastime. Ladies had an even harder time of it. If they had money and connections, their
best hope was to marry advantageously. If they lacked both, the most they could
hope for was a position as a companion, a governess, or a schoolteacher. Other
options existed, but as with gentlemen, a certain loss of social standing
accompanied them. A woman could have a genius for designing clothes, trimming
hats, preparing delicious meals, but once she tried to make a decent living from
that skill, she acquired 'a smell of the shop' and became much less desirable as
wife--unless it was to another 'tradesman.' While a compelling romance could be written about, say, a fishmonger and a
Covent Garden flower seller, the genre as it currently stands may not be ready
for such a story! The nobility--or the landed gentry, at least--continues to
dominate as the protagonists in historical romance. And far too many of them
come across as lilies of the field, especially those jaded lords at the top of
the food chain, sleeping their way through the ton just because they can and
bemoaning their empty existences. Seriously, are we expected to sympathize? Not
going to happen! Exasperation with these idle creatures inspires me to write believable 'working
couples' in a historical setting. Fortunately, my choice of time period--the
late Victorian Age--helped. Thanks to a severe agricultural depression, the life
of a landed aristocrat was no longer the paradise it had once been. Peers who
failed to change with the times were confronted with the harsh realities that
their grand properties were no longer supporting themselves and that their
titles were worth considerably less than money in the bank. Solutions to this predicament ranged from the traditional--marry a fortune
(often American)--to the formerly distasteful: earn money, whether through sound
investments or (gasp!) the adoption of a suitable profession! Women were
likewise confronted with a changing world, but for once, those changes worked to
their advantage, as more opportunities--educational and professional--opened up
for them. By the end of the 19th century, they could study at universities,
pursue careers outside the home, the school, and the shop, and live
independently. In my new historical romance, A SONG AT TWILIGHT, the
hero and heroine find their futures shaped by the dramatic changes of the era.
Struggling architect Robin Pendarvis inherits an estate he cannot maintain
unassisted, while Sophie Tresilian possesses a musical talent that could take
her far beyond her native Cornwall. While both secretly dream of a life
together, each also encourages the other to realize individual goals and
aspirations--one of the most romantic things a couple can do.
"You should really do something with that voice of yours," he said,
almost
abruptly. "If your family would just let you go and have some proper training in
London."
"It's not as if they're stopping me!" Sophie protested loyally. "And
I am going
to London next spring. Mama and Harry have even suggested that I study at a
conservatory-someplace like the Royal College of Music."
The crease smoothed out. "Have they indeed? Good. Because you're
wasted here,
performing at musicales and evenings at home. As a professional singer, you
could have the world at your feet, if you chose."
"At my feet?" The thought seemed incredible. She, the daughter of a
provincial
Cornish baronet, singing on the stage? Holding audiences in the palm of her
hand?
"I mean it." His voice was gentle, but his gaze held an intensity
that took her
breath away. "Let's have no false modesty, my dear. You have a rare talent, and
a fair amount of stage presence as well. Cultivate both, and you could go far
indeed-concerts, recitals, even the opera. If that's what you want, of
course."
"I'm not sure what I want, exactly," Sophie confessed, feeling
suddenly very
young and uncertain. "I dearly love music-singing and playing. I always have.
But I've never considered making a career of it!"
"Understandable. Young ladies aren't generally encouraged to seek
careers, or
any other outlet, save a good marriage. And perhaps I am taking great liberties
even to suggest such a thing. Your family probably wouldn't thank me for it," he
added with a rueful grimace. "But I'm afraid that I have a deep-seated aversion
at seeing talents go to waste. Would you think me unforgivably impertinent if I
ask you to consider what I've said?"
"Not at all. I'm flattered that you think my abilities worth the
trouble,"
Sophie replied. "And who knows? Perhaps someday I will be a famous singer and
give a concert at the Royal Albert Hall." For a moment, an image of
herself-splendidly gowned and bejeweled-standing upon a stage rose in her mind.
She forced it back at once, sternly telling herself to concentrate on the matter
at hand. "But we're discussing your dreams today, Mr. Pendarvis. Namely, how you
can turn the Hall into the best, most popular, most sought-after resort hotel in
Cornwall!" So how do you feel about "working couples" in historical romance? And who are
your favorite professional pairs? I will be giving away a print copy of A SONG AT TWILIGHT to a
commenter. Late in England's Victorian age, the world is changing-new freedoms, new ideas,
and perhaps a chance for an old love to be new again... A love too strong to let go... Aspiring singer Sophie Tresilian had the world at her feet-fame, fortune, and
true love-until the man of her dreams broke her heart. Now she's the toast of
Europe, desired by countless men but unwilling to commit to any of them. Then
Robin Pendarvis walks back into her life... Four years ago, Rob had hoped to make Sophie his bride, but secrets from his
past forced him to let her go. Seeing her again revives all the old pain-and all
the old passion. It might be against every rule, but somehow, some way, he will
bring them together again...
Comments
50 comments posted.
Re: Pamela Sherwood | All Play and No Work...Make Jack a Dead Bore
can't wait to read this
(Darlene Fox 7:51am November 18, 2013)
looks really good thanks for the giveaway excited to read this
one
(Denise Smith 8:56am November 18, 2013)
Thanks for commenting, Darlene!
(Pamela Sherwood 9:06am November 18, 2013)
Denise, glad you like the look of the book!
(Pamela Sherwood 9:07am November 18, 2013)
Ah, will it be true love for Sophia and Robin? It is precisely the kind of book I love and just in time for the holidays too. Happy Holidays and keep writing.
(Patricia (Pat) Pascale 9:29am November 18, 2013)
Wow - this sounds like a great story. Thanks for the chance to win. Best of luck with this book and all you do.
(Nancy Reynolds 9:35am November 18, 2013)
This is my first experience reading about working couples in Historical Romance. I'm excited to break new ground as far as Romance goes. Your book sounds like a very interesting and fun read, and I can't wait to start it!! I love the cover, too!! Congratulations on your latest book!!
(Peggy Roberson 9:35am November 18, 2013)
I like the working couples. I like having a strong heroine who goes against the grain. My favorite would be one I just finished.....Sabrina Jeffries' When the Rogue Returns. The heroine is a jeweler and the hero is an investigator. Great story!
(Sue Galuska 9:44am November 18, 2013)
Pat, they say true love conquers all! I hope you enjoy A Song at Twilight, should you try it. Happy Holidays to you!
Nancy, happy you like the sound of A Song at Twilight. Thanks for the good wishes!
Peggy, I hope you enjoy the book snd thanks for the congratulations!
Sue, working heroines have a purpose that their leisured counterparts somehow lack. And being a jeweler sounds like it has fascinating possibilities for a heroine. Investigator heroes are more frequent, but it's still a calling that gives them plenty of scope to be in the thick of things.
(Pamela Sherwood 10:05am November 18, 2013)
I don't know about working couples, but Heather Snow's
heroines all have some sort of passion (chemistry,
mathematics, music, etc...) and I love that!
(Karin Anderson 10:33am November 18, 2013)
The title of this book is just wonderful! It seems to promise a very romantic and lovely read. Thanks for the contest.
(Vennie Martinisi 10:41am November 18, 2013)
What a great giveaway!
(Richard Proctor 10:42am November 18, 2013)
Karin, I also love a heroine who's passionate about something even before the hero comes into her life. Thanks for the rec!
Vennie, the book's title comes from the chorus of a popular Victorian parlor ballad: "Love's Old Sweet Song." Thanks for your interest!
(Pamela Sherwood 10:45am November 18, 2013)
Richard, thanks for your interest!
(Pamela Sherwood 10:47am November 18, 2013)
I like Adrian & Evelyn Hadley-Attwater in Victoria Alexander's My Wicked Little Lies. They are both spies. I think it is interesting when the couples have professions.
(Sharlene Wegner 10:48am November 18, 2013)
Sounds like a wonderful book!
(Maria Proctor 11:20am November 18, 2013)
Your introduction to the characters makes me want to read this book. Thanks for giving us a chance to win it.
(Anna Speed 11:31am November 18, 2013)
I know I have read one or two working couples before... but off the top of my head I can not recall them. Thanks for sharing about your book!
(Colleen Conklin 11:40am November 18, 2013)
Another great story that I can hardly wait to read. Thank you.
(C Culp 11:48am November 18, 2013)
Sharlene, spy couples are always intriguing. They feature prominently in Joanna Bourne's historicals, which I also love!
Maria, thank you!
Anna, I'm glad you enjoyed being introduced to Robin and Sophie!
Colleen, thank you for your interest.
Carletta, 'tis the season for a slew of great reads! Thanks for your interest.
(Pamela Sherwood 12:00pm November 18, 2013)
Looks like a terrific read. Thank you for the giveaway!
(Barbara Wells 1:58pm November 18, 2013)
Keeping my fingers crossed for this one!
(Melanie Backus 2:12pm November 18, 2013)
Love Victorian love stories-----so romantic!!!!!!!
(Suzanne Bischoff 2:41pm November 18, 2013)
Would like to read this one
(Tina Lechuga 2:55pm November 18, 2013)
I'd love to read an historical working clue romance. Don't recall reading one
before.
(Michelle Schafer 3:21pm November 18, 2013)
would love to win and read!!
(Pamela Faye Howell 4:12pm November 18, 2013)
Barbara, glad you think the book looks good!
Melanie, good luck to you and everyone else in the giveaway.
Suzanne, the Victorians may not have been as dashing as their Regency predecessors, but they could be very romantic!
Tina, thanks for your interest.
Michelle, historical working couple romances are out there! You just have to keep looking!
Pamela, thanks for commenting!
(Pamela Sherwood 4:17pm November 18, 2013)
I have yet to read a book by you. Would welcome the chance to do so. It sounds
really good.
(Joy Isley 4:37pm November 18, 2013)
Joy, well, A Song at Twilight is only my second book. But I hope you decide to give either of my works a try. Thanks for your interest!
(Pamela Sherwood 6:50pm November 18, 2013)
I can't actually think of any working couples in Victorian romances--but I do like the idea and will be anxious to read your book.
(Sue Farrell 7:49pm November 18, 2013)
I love the sound of this book!
I recently read a book (The Marquess of Cake) where the h worked in her family's bakery and a Marquess so loved sweets he bought the store. He also had other business ventures though some looked down on him for it.
(Marcy Shuler 7:55pm November 18, 2013)
A Song at Twilight sounds great! There really aren't a lot
of historicals out there where both the hero and heroine
work however I can name a couple really good ones:
-- Jade Lee's What the Bride Wore has a working couple - he
make material and she buys it for a friend who owns a dress
shop. Actually, the whole A Bridal Favors series has working
protagonists.
-- Shana Galen's Lord and Lady Spy Novels (and Novella) all
have spy couples as protagonists.
-- Grace Burrowes' The Virtuoso has a working younger son --
musician and piano maker and a widowed heroine who raises
and sells herbs to make ends meet.
-- Lauren Royal has a working heroine in Amethyst and the
hero does much of the manual labor restoring his home (don't
think his work counts though). She also has a architect
hero in Rose but the heroine doesn't work.
(Glenda Martillotti 7:57pm November 18, 2013)
Working couples can be a fun read. The only couple I can think of, off hand, is Nick and Nora Charles of The Thin Man.
(Sheila True 7:59pm November 18, 2013)
Sue, glad you find the premise appealing and thanks for your interest!
Marcelyn, The Marquess of Cake is a great title!
Glenda, thanks for the recs--I will be sure to check them out.
Sheila, Nick and Nora Charles are a classic working team!
(Pamela Sherwood 8:11pm November 18, 2013)
Sounds great!!
(Vicki Hancock 8:51pm November 18, 2013)
Women have come a long way, but only in the western countries. Much is left to do for our sisters in the more underdeveloped nations.
(Eileen Dandashi 9:40pm November 18, 2013)
I love historical romance!
(Callie Stuck 9:43pm November 18, 2013)
I don't recall if I have ever read a story about "working couples" in a
historical romance. Your book sounds wonderful, and I love the cover!
Thanks for the chance to win!!!
(Linda Brennan 10:22pm November 18, 2013)
I love reading historical romances. Thanks for a chance to win your book.
(Linda Hall 10:34pm November 18, 2013)
Vicki, thanks for your interest!
Eileen, agreed! And progress for women was slow even in the West. It hasn't even been a century since they were given the vote!
Callie, I love it too!
Linda, glad you like the sound of the book, and I've grown attached to the cover as well!
Linda, thank you for your interest in A Song at Twilight!
Good luck to everyone!
(Pamela Sherwood 10:38pm November 18, 2013)
I have a lot of "working couples" that I love and for some
reason I can't think of them right now. I think it's
because I'm studying for my exams for class tomorrow that I
can't think of any. I do love your books. Waltz With A
Stranger had a happy ending for both side and I love it. It
was sweet and like fresh since there was no big villian.
(Sandy Xiong 10:55pm November 18, 2013)
I could only think of husband and wife as spy in the historical romance. I just can't recollect what are those books.
(Kai Wong 11:27pm November 18, 2013)
Working couples work for me. Sometimes the conflicts are because of the work they do.
(Laura Gullickson 11:36pm November 18, 2013)
Kai, spies and detectives are popular job choices for couples and historical romance!
Laura, it's always interesting when professional issues provide the tension between a couple!
(Pamela Sherwood 12:22pm November 19, 2013)
Sandy, so glad that you enjoyed Waltz with a Stranger. I hope you will like the second book as well!
(Pamela Sherwood 12:27pm November 19, 2013)
SOUNDS LIKE A GOOD READ; THANKS FOR THE CONTEST.
(Barbara Studer 7:07am November 19, 2013)
Barbara, thanks for your interest!
(Pamela Sherwood 1:44pm November 19, 2013)
I actually can't think of any professional pairings. Obviously
a dearth. Keep writing!!
(Mary Preston 4:55am November 20, 2013)
working couples work for me
(Patricia Lambert 9:42am November 20, 2013)
What a fascinating book! Thanks for sharing the great excerpt. Love historical romance and would love to win a copy of this book.
(Bonnie H 4:52pm November 26, 2013)
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