Interesting People

Author’s Note

We start with the Author’s Note, in which Stewart lays out her literary and historical forebears (Lady Hester Stanhope), and establishes what (and who) exists-- and, more importantly, doesn’t. I encourage people to read more about Lady Hester, though I think everything you need to know for the novel, the novel will tell you.

Chapter One

( And we start by meeting Christy Mansell, running unexpectedly into her cousin Charles!  )

Chapter Two

( Christy does some research )

Christy and Charles both seem fairly well read, and share interests-- as well as a friendly relationship and ability to tease each other. Charles speaks some Arabic, and has read the Koran, Christy has just read up on Lady Hester Stanhope, due to a bout of flu while staying at home with Charles’s library. Both of them are described by the other's parents as 'spoilt', which may cause problems later on. For one thing, they're dropping in on Aunt Harriet without warning, just a cheery belief that she'll be fine despite having very little contact.