Yours Faithfully, Amanda

February 16, 2019 Dear Jane, As it two days after Valentine's Day, I must discuss something with you of the utmost importance. I do not wish to play the blame game, Jane, but you must admit that you gave me (and all your gentle readers) some very unrealistic expectations about love when you wrote characters like Captain Wentworth, Mr. Darcy & Mr. Knightley (and the lesser-talked-about, Admiral Croft. He was a true gentleman, Jane, who clearly valued his remarkable wife!). But do not fret for I forgive you, dear friend! We are most fortunate to have your novels to turn to both when love is in the air and when it is not. Of course, that is not to say you were a writer of mere love stories. I am a firm believer (as are most, I should hope) that your novels are some of the greatest works of fiction ever written. However, as it is the month of love, I shall share my favorite romantic moment from Persuasion: Captain Wentworth's letter. "I can listen no longer in silenc...

November 4, 2016 Dear Jane, Now, then, shall we begin with Part two of my JASNA AGM adventures? I heartily believe that there is no better time than the present (except whilst dawdling, of course) so here goes nothing, my friend. Friday 21 2016: Friday began bright and early with a hug goodbye from my dear sister, Rachael and a hot cup of coffee from the local coffee shop. Now, although I had already been at the AGM for three days, the official opening was actually on Friday afternoon so naturally, there was great excitement throughout the hotel in anticipation. Happily, before the above-mentioned opening ceremeony, if you will, I attended a “show and tell” of sorts by the Jane Austen House Museum in which the curator showed curious Janeites various objects from the (your!) house that relate to your novel, Emma . Afterwards (and  this is the truly exciting part, Jane), we all queued up to await a grand, pink barouche that would shuttle JASNA attendees to the Folger...

September 28, 2016 Dear Jane, You will not find me complaining, but I am truly in awe that we already find ourselves at the end of September. Whilst we were in the midst of Summer, Autumn always seemed so far away but with the cool mornings, blowing leaves and pumpkin spice lattes (another modern marvel), I am ready to believe that it has finally arrived at last! In truth, this has made me quite giddy as I am a great lover of "sweater weather." Perhaps in your time it would have been called "Spencer Weather?" Oh, how I chuckle just thinking of Elizabeth Bennet saying, "How I love Spencer Weather, Jane! It is a most wonderful time of year." Amanda Forker modeling "Sweater Weather." Elizabeth Bennet modeling "Spencer Weather."             VS. Now, if I recall correctly, I promised to write you a "Part Two" letter with more particulars about my adventures in Portland with Darcie (Roommate Darcie NO...