As part of a virtual launch, I had a joint reading with author Edeana Malcolm at Point Ellice House. My reading from Trappings took place in the parlour where the first chapter is set — very evocative of the era. Video by Richard Tsing Hum. Edeana’s reading is linked in the description.
Trappings launch
New novel, Trappings, released
Trappings, a new historical novel, has recently been released in Apple Books. Based on real people and events, it’s a story of first love and second chances, in an era when women only got one chance: the 19th Century. https://books.apple.com/ca/book/trappings/id1512512874
Tango Tea in Port Townsend
In historic Port Townsend, I will be the DJ at this month’s Tango Tea. Golden Age music in a very Victorian town. http://www.tangopt.com/
Women’s History Month
October is Women’s History Month. Who are the women behind the records in the BC Archives? I’m pleased to be discussing some stories of strong, resilient women, who walked these streets long before they were paved. Sunday, October 29th, 1 pm. With archivist Genevieve Weber and genealogist Diane Rogers. https://royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/visit/events/calendar/event/105512/womens-history-month-talk-women-bc-archives
UVic Library Acquisition
While The Chief Factor’s Daughter has been available at libraries across the continent (and in Zurich!) since its release, it has recently been acquired by the University of Victoria’s McPherson Library. http://voyager.library.uvic.ca/vwebv/holdingsInfo?bibId=3739211
Public History Discussion
In the new year, I’m pleased to be speaking to a Public History seminar at the University of Victoria, about the process of writing historical “fiction”. This graduate course explores how people gain a sense of history outside of the classroom, including by reading novels.
Goward House Book Club
The Chief Factor’s Daughter was October’s read for the book club at Goward House. A former home, this beautiful 1908 heritage site was converted to an activity centre and arts venue. I welcome invitations to attend book club meetings and discuss this historical novel with readers. Gazette newsletter, p. 2. http://www.gowardhouse.com/GazetteFile/Gazette.pdf
“Called Away”: Death & Mourning in Colonial Victoria
In keeping with the fall season, I’ll be sharing local stories of departing life and Victorian-era traditions, from widow’s weeds to Postmortem portraits. October 15th, at Ross Bay Villa — currently decorated in mourning for its own departed. http://rossbayvilla.org/
Women on the Edge of Gold
How were women impacted by the discoveries of gold in British Columbia? The Royal BC Museum’s Live@lunch talk, October 7th, will reveal some remarkable women of fur-trade families in Victoria, and their resilience in facing the dramatic changes of the Gold Rush. http://royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/events/live-lunch-women-on-the-edge-of-gold/