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Author: Rachel

Review – Miss Lucas: A Pride and Prejudice VariationInstagram 7-13-21
July 13, 2021
Rachel
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Review – Miss Lucas: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

Posted in Book Blogger

Miss Lucas: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

by A.V. Knight

Miss Lucas Cover

Genres: Regency, Historical Romance, Pride and Prejudice, Adult
Release Date: December 16, 2018
Pages: 180
Purchase from: Amazon

My Rating: ★★★★☆

View ratings overview

☆☆☆☆☆ – Did not finish
★☆☆☆☆ – Hated it
★★☆☆☆ – Disliked it
★★★☆☆ – Okay
★★★★☆ – Liked it
★★★★★ – Loved it
Read the full explanation of my book rating system.

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single woman of 27 is doomed to remain an old maid.

Charlotte Lucas knows this better than anyone. 

Mr. Collins is Charlotte’s last chance at becoming a wife, but when he leaves Meryton without proposing, Charlotte is determined not to let this last opportunity pass her by. 

The greatest challenge to Charlotte’s changes isn’t securing an invitation to Rosings Park, battling Lizzy’s temper, overcoming Lady Catherine’s unfathomable disapproval, or even Mr. Darcy’s odd behavior: it’s the distracting presence of Colonel Fitzwilliam. The man is neither handsome nor charming, but he’s honest and clever, which are enough to tease Charlotte with romantic notions that have never troubled her before.

Join Charlotte Lucas in this novel-length variation on Jane Austen’s classic, where practical Charlotte finally earns her own happy ending. Though a lover of clean regency romance, Miss Lucas is AV Knight’s first Pride and Prejudice variation.

Keep ReadingReview – Miss Lucas: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
My Current Pen Wish ListInstagram 7-9-21
July 9, 2021
Rachel
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My Current Pen Wish List

Posted in Fountain Pens

For a very short while earlier this year, I had a very minor pen wish list. But, I’m acquisitive by nature — I try to temper it, but the crow-brain is strong with this one — so, lo and behold, I have a significant wish list again. It’s not as long as it could be — or has been in the past — so at least there’s that.

I’m going to share my current wish list, and maybe revisit it a couple of times a year to see what I buy and what I ultimately decide against. Maybe you’ll find some pens to add to your wish list. Muahahaha — erm, *cough cough*. Sorry about that.

Note: I’ve listed these in alphabetical order by company name.

Keep ReadingMy Current Pen Wish List
Review – Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy: The Last Man in the WorldInstagram 7-6-21
July 6, 2021
Rachel
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Review – Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy: The Last Man in the World

Posted in Book Blogger

Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy: The Last Man in the World

by Abigail Reynolds

Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy Cover

Series: Pride and Prejudice Variations
Genres: Regency, Historical Romance, Pride and Prejudice, Adult
Release Date: January 1, 2010
Pages: 258
Purchase from: Amazon

My Rating: ★★★★☆

View ratings overview

☆☆☆☆☆ – Did not finish
★☆☆☆☆ – Hated it
★★☆☆☆ – Disliked it
★★★☆☆ – Okay
★★★★☆ – Liked it
★★★★★ – Loved it
Read the full explanation of my book rating system.

What if…

The last man in the world she could be prevailed upon to marry…is her husband?

In Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet tells the proud Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy that she wouldn’t marry him if he were the last man in the world.

But what if she never said the words? What if circumstances conspired to make her accept Darcy the first time he proposes?

In this installment of Abigail Reynolds’s acclaimed Pride and Prejudice Variations, Elizabeth agrees to marry Darcy against her better judgment, setting off a chain of events that nearly brings disaster to them both…

Keep ReadingReview – Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy: The Last Man in the World
Ranking Large Pen BrandsInstagram 7-2-21
July 2, 2021
Rachel
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Ranking Large Pen Brands

Posted in Fountain Pens

DISCLAIMER UPDATE (6/24/22): TWSBI and Narwhal have released a joint statement which I cover in my most recent TWSBIgate post. While not completely satisfied with TWSBI’s response to the situation, I no longer feel the need to dissuade people from purchasing their products.

DISCLAIMER (5/1/22): Since writing this post, TWSBI has been involved in some unsavory actions, and I am currently boycotting them. For more information, refer to the #twsbigate tag page.

I’ve seen this ranking system on YouTube a lot lately, and it seemed like a fun idea. I don’t know how well it will work in a blog post, but I’m giving it a try. Since I always want to jump to the end to see what the rankings are, I’ve started with that. You can continue reading after the ranking list if you want to find out why I placed a brand in any given ranking.

OK, so what am I ranking? Large/Mainstream pen brands. I’m not including Indie Brands because a) I don’t think that’s fair to them, given I have no idea how experienced any person is with pen making at this time and b) I think all Indie Brands that don’t have shady business practices should be shown more love, not shade. You can see the Indie Brand qualifications in my Indie Pen Makers Update post. For me, large/mainstream brands are those readily available in pen stores.

Let me know if I’ve missed any brands, I can write an update to include them. That said, I’m also not including defunct brands — sorry OMAS lovers. I’m also only considering modern experiences with vintage brands (e.g. Esterbrook, Sheaffer, etc.) not their vintage pens.

Let me know if you agree or disagree with my rankings. And if this looks fun, you can use my template to make your own ranking list.

Keep ReadingRanking Large Pen Brands
Review – An Unwitting CompromiseInstagram 6-29-21
June 29, 2021
Rachel
2 Comments

Review – An Unwitting Compromise

Posted in Book Blogger

An Unwitting Compromise

by Sue Barr

An Unwitting Compromise

Genres: Regency, Historical Romance, Pride and Prejudice, Adult
Release Date: March 5, 2021
Pages: 254
Purchase from: Amazon

My Rating: ★★★☆☆

View ratings overview

☆☆☆☆☆ – Did not finish
★☆☆☆☆ – Hated it
★★☆☆☆ – Disliked it
★★★☆☆ – Okay
★★★★☆ – Liked it
★★★★★ – Loved it
Read the full explanation of my book rating system.

Can a woman have two great loves in her life?

All it takes is one night for Elizabeth Bennet’s life to change forever. Finding herself pregnant with Mr. Darcy’s baby, she is forced to make decisions that will have an impact on the rest of not only her life but her family’s.

Mr. Darcy, who cannot remember the night in question and therefore does not believe he is the father of Elizabeth’s child, soldiers on in his pride and arrogance until he’s forced to admit – he is the father.

His realization comes too late. She is now married and not only is she unattainable, but so is his son.

**Warning** There is a hint of what some might feel is sexual violence in the first chapter. It is not graphic, but some readers who are sensitive to this type of scenario should read with caution.

Keep ReadingReview – An Unwitting Compromise
June 21, 2021
Rachel
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Monday Munchies: Beef and Salsa Skillet

Posted in Monday Munchies

I found this recipe online years ago, and I no longer remember where it’s from. It’s another fairly cheap, and super easy meal. Plus there are A LOT of leftovers for lunch the next couple of days.

Beef and Salsa Skillet

What You Need (Serves up to 4)

  • 1 lb ground beef (I prefer 92/8% fat distribution, but go with whatever you like best)
  • 1 16oz Jar Old El Paso Thick ‘n Chunky Salsa (This is getting harder and harder to find. My second choice is Pace Chunky Salsa) in the spiciness level of your choice
  • 1 15/16oz can of Dark Red Kidney Beans
  • 1 15/16oz can of Whole Kernel Sweet Corn
  • 1 8oz can of Tomato Sauce
  • Cayenne and/or Chile Arbol powder (optional)
  • Sargento 4 Cheese Mexican Shredded Cheese
  • Flour Tortillas
  • Large pan
Keep ReadingMonday Munchies: Beef and Salsa Skillet
2021 Triangle Pen ShowInstagram 6-16-21
June 16, 2021
Rachel
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2021 Triangle Pen Show

Posted in Pen Shows

Jim brought up going to the Triangle Pen Show (TPS) a couple weeks ago but we dithered for a while, only deciding to go on the Thursday before. The drive wasn’t too bad, we were lucky to not hit traffic on the way down — we hit all the traffic on the way back up, though.

We made it to the show around 11:30 am. Finding out masks weren’t required surprised me. Being fully vaccinated, we decided to try going maskless and see how we felt. I’m not going to lie, it felt a bit naughty. I felt almost naked. But it was nice to breath freely. And since the room wasn’t packed, I was OK without a mask and enjoyed the taste of pre-COVID life.

The best part for me was just being at a pen show again. Getting to see Carey from Kenro, Damien of All in the Nib, Bert of Bertram’s Inkwell — although we see him often — and some pen friends was great. I’ve missed the pen camaraderie. It’s such a social battery recharge to see people, talk pens, and be able to see/handle things in person before buying them.

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June 14, 2021
Rachel
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Monday Munchies: Pastel de Tres Leches

Posted in Monday Munchies

I found this one on Cooking Con Claudia’s YouTube channel as well. The recipe is slightly modified from her video Easy and Delicious Tres Leches Cake. Pastel de Tres Leches literally translates to cake of three milks. It’s one of my favorite desserts.

What You Need

  • 1 Box vanilla cake mix (+ required ingredients to make cake and 1 tbsp Mexican Vanilla Blend. You can substitute regular vanilla extract)
  • 1 16oz container of half and half
  • 1 14oz can of sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 12oz can evaporated milk
  • 16oz (2 cups) heavy whipping cream
  • 1½ tbsps sugar
  • 1 tbsp Mexican Vanilla Blend (You can substitute regular vanilla extract)
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Cake pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Hand or stand mixer
Keep ReadingMonday Munchies: Pastel de Tres Leches
Review – A Case of Some DelicacyInstagram 6-1-21
June 8, 2021
Rachel
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Review – A Case of Some Delicacy

Posted in Book Blogger

A Case of Some Delicacy

by KC Kahler

A Case of Some Delicacy

Genres: Regency, Historical Romance, Pride and Prejudice, Adult
Release Date: September 22, 2019
Pages: 420
Purchase from: Amazon

My Rating: ★★★☆☆

View ratings overview

☆☆☆☆☆ – Did not finish
★☆☆☆☆ – Hated it
★★☆☆☆ – Disliked it
★★★☆☆ – Okay
★★★★☆ – Liked it
★★★★★ – Loved it
Read the full explanation of my book rating system.

A secret alliance grows from an unwelcomed olive branch…

When rumours of Jane Bennet’s impending betrothal to Mr. Collins begin spreading at the Meryton Assembly, Elizabeth Bennet vows to save her dearest sister’s happiness from being sacrificed in marriage. She finds an unlikely ally in Mr Darcy, the taciturn man whose heroics on the cricket field have made him the target for Lydia’s affections.

Overhearing a heated exchange between Elizabeth and Mr Bennet, Darcy is stunned not only by her devotion to her sister, but also by her defiant words to her father. An inexplicable desire to help Elizabeth draws Darcy into the match-breaking scheme, despite knowing that he should want nothing to do with a family like the Bennets.

As the new allies work together, they begin to understand and admire each other. But they must navigate a complicated web of sisters, parents, friends, cousins, aunts, and new acquaintances, all of whom seem contrary to being manipulated. A few of them may even be attempting their own manipulations and romantic schemes. Eavesdropping and jealousy abound, cricket balls go astray, and love blooms in spite of Mrs. Bennet’s mismatched matchmaking.

This humorous Pride and Prejudice re-imagining is novel length and pays homage to the wit of Jane Austen.

Keep ReadingReview – A Case of Some Delicacy
June 7, 2021
Rachel
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Monday Munchies: Watermelon & Cucumber Agua Fresca

Posted in Monday Munchies

I found this one on Cooking Con Claudia’s YouTube channel as well. The recipe is slightly modified from her video How To Make The Best Watermelon and Cucumber Agua Fresca.

For those unfamiliar with Agua Fresca, think of it like lemonade but with other fruits. You mix the fruit juice(s) with water to get a refreshing drink.

What You Need

  • 1 Ripe Seedless Watermelon
  • 1 Large English Cucumber
  • 2-3 Lemons
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 4 cups water
  • Blender
  • Pitcher or container for storage
Keep ReadingMonday Munchies: Watermelon & Cucumber Agua Fresca
Review – Pride & PerceptionInstagram 5-25-21
June 1, 2021
Rachel
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Review – Pride & Perception

Posted in Book Blogger

Pride & Perception

by Sue Barr

Pride and Perception

Genres: Regency, Historical Romance, Pride and Prejudice, Adult
Release Date: March 5, 2021
Pages: 363
Purchase from: Amazon

My Rating: ★★★★☆

View ratings overview

☆☆☆☆☆ – Did not finish
★☆☆☆☆ – Hated it
★★☆☆☆ – Disliked it
★★★☆☆ – Okay
★★★★☆ – Liked it
★★★★★ – Loved it
Read the full explanation of my book rating system.

What if…

The entail on Longbourn had been broken?

The Bennets owned Netherfield Park?

Jane Bennet had firm opinions?

Lizzy overheard the second derogatory comment Darcy made about her beauty? After the Bennets had dined at Netherfield Park, he said, “Her a beauty? I should as soon call her mother a wit.”

Yeah – that one.

This is a story where we explore all these beautiful what-ifs.

Keep ReadingReview – Pride & Perception
Bumbledore: A Continuous Joy
May 31, 2021
Rachel
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Bumbledore: A Continuous Joy

Posted in Cat

Two years ago, we adopted our rescue cat, Bumbledore. Last year, I shared his story, including how far he’d come, especially since the start of pandemic telework. Now, another year later, he’s continued to improve by leaps and bounds.

Any of you who follow me on Instagram already know he’s become a cuddle monster. Every morning, he sits on my lap anywhere from 10-30 minutes, just enjoying my company and some pets. I make sure to post a photo to my story each day. I often joke that Bumbledore pays rent through cuddles and social media content.

Keep ReadingBumbledore: A Continuous Joy
May 28, 2021
Rachel
2 Comments

A Warning to the Pen Curious

Posted in Fountain Pens

“Hi Mrs. Smith!”

“Oh, hello, Jen. How many times have I told you to just call me Barb?”

“I couldn’t do that, Mrs. Smith, you’re around my mom’s age, and that just doesn’t seem right.”

“Well, the invitation is there, Jen. You’re in your 30s, it’s OK to call me Barb if you want.”

“I’ll think about it Mrs. Smith. By the way, you know about fountain pens, don’t you?”

“I do, I grew up with them. Why do you ask?”

“A friend of mine uses them, and I’m kind of curious.”

Mrs. Smith sighs and gestures to the chair next to her, inviting Jen to sit. “So you’re interested in pens, are you? Be warned, that’s dangerous territory, dear, dangerous indeed.” Jen’s eyes pop wide, and Mrs. Smith waves away her obvious fear. “Oh, perhaps not necessarily dangerous to your life, but to your wallet, to your interests!

Keep ReadingA Warning to the Pen Curious
Making Life Colorful5-26-21
May 26, 2021
Rachel
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Making Life Colorful

Posted in Personal

I’ve wanted to paint my stair risers in a rainbow for about a year now, and for the last 4-5 months, I’ve been thinking of painting the kitchen cabinets as well.

With our financial situation back in hand by the end of March, we went out to choose and buy paint. I’ve been industrially painting ever since.

Now that I’m done, I’m delighted with the results. It’s almost hard to believe we had a bland kitchen for so long.

Keep ReadingMaking Life Colorful
May 21, 2021
Rachel
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A Surprising Joy

Posted in Fountain Pens

It’s not often I write a pen review — let’s be honest, it’s almost never — mostly because there are so many reviewers out there. However, in this particular case, I feel impelled to share my thoughts.

About a month ago, I realized that I no longer had an orange pen in my “Under $250” category. I can’t have a pen rainbow without orange. To try to fix that issue, I solicited some suggestions from my lovely local peeps in the DC Metro Pen Crew.

I received a lot of suggestions, and the Pilot Custom 74 is the one I ultimately decided on. By sheer coincidence, I had a birthday coupon for Pen Chalet, so that’s who I ordered from.

Keep ReadingA Surprising Joy
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