Books
A Notorious Love Scoop
- The plot for A Notorious Love developed from the characters themselves as they were created in A Dangerous Love. In fact, I really don't remember why I happened upon the elopement scenario for Juliet, except that it fit well with Daniel and Helena.
- Morgan was originally supposed to turn nasty once he got Juliet away from her family. When I started to write his first scene, however, he just refused to behave villain-like and insisted on being the hero for the next book. He and I argued about it while I was in the shower one day (yes, I talk to my characters). He won. Of course, then he turned out to be a twin … but that's another story.
- The St. Clements' Caves in Hastings really existed. They still do. In fact, a tourist attraction called Smuggler's Adventure is located in them now.
- Most of what I learned about Winchelsea came as a result of a lucky find in a used book store: an old pamphlet entitled The Antient Town of Winchelsea: Official Guide. It even had a map! But for online resources, here's a look at the Pipewell Gate where Morgan caught Juliet eavedropping.
Inside Scoop from Characters
Interview with a Country Lad who gave aid to Lady Helena and Daniel Brennan on their journey:
Reporter: Good day, Master Atkins. We’ve come to speak to you about the Brennans.
Atkins (shaking head): I can’t be talkin’ about them to you. Last time I did that, I got them in sore trouble, and since they was always nice to me, I don’t see as how I can say anythin’ about them.
Reporter: We’ve heard you acted the hero on their behalf, and we would merely like your impressions of the couple.
Atkins: Oh. A hero, is it? Well, I s’pose it won’t do no harm to say a word or two.
Reporter: There’s been some question about whether the two were really married. What is your opinion?
Atkins: Of course they’re married. They slept in the horse stall in my barn one night—same as sharing a bed. And I can tell you now that Mrs. Brennan weren’t the sort to share a man’s bed unless they were married. Besides which, any fool could see they were in love. Mr. Brennan looked out for her right proper, he did, and Mrs. Brennan sighed after him all the time.
Reporter: Did you notice anything unusual about the couple?
Atkins: The lady used a cane to walk, and she spoke like gentry, all nice and soft. Mr. Brennan didn’t speak so nice, but he treated me right, he did. And so did she. Editor’s note—Lady Helena walks with a limp.
Reporter: About this service you rendered them…
Atkins: No, I can’t talk about that. I promised ‘em.
Reporter: But we heard at some point you had to dress as a girl in order to help them.
Atkins (blushing): I think I hear my da callin’ me. I got to go now.
Reporter: Wait, Mr. Atkins…
Unfortunately, that was the end of the interview. But the lad’s answers confirmed suspicions that Mr. Brennan and Lady Helena traveled alone together most scandalously.
How to Act Like a Lady in an Improper Situation
by Lady Helena Laverick
- Beware of charming gentlemen, especially those with a reputation for flattering with finesse.
- If you must travel with a rogue, be sure to keep the conversation formal, or you may find yourself discussing such matters of great embarrassment as the activities of ladies of the evening.
- Do not over-imbibe under any circumstances. A lady can hardly remain a lady when her wits are fogged with drink and a gentleman is speaking sweet words in her ear.
- If you simply must pretend to be married, insist on separate lodgings.
- Familiarity does not always breed contempt.
- Be prepared for every circumstance. You never know when you might become the victim of treachery, and be forced to rely on the criminal knowledge of your companion.
- Carry a cane for thumping villains over the head, even if you do not require one.
The Ballad of Daniel Brennan
His father was a
highwayman
His mother served the ale
And all expected Danny Boy
To end like them in gaol.
Despite a youth spent
smuggling,
He found legitimate work
And so became a man of affairs
His duties never to shirk.
But life was very
lonely
For the rough and ready gent
Until the Lady Helena came
With beauty and shrewish bent.
Her station, it was
lofty
Her dislike of men well-known
But still he found her lovely
And wanted her for his own.
The favor that she
asked of him
Was a hard and dangerous trip
To rescue her sister Juliet
From a rash elopement.
The two of them rode
night and day
And stole more than one kiss.
In each other’s arms they found
A sweet and secret bliss.
Some would say unequal
sorts
Should never be yoked together,
But Danny Boy and his lady fair
Are married now forever.
So do not criticize,
my friend,
What you don’t understand.
Love will strike wherever it will
Despite society’s demand.