Does Murder and Mystery in Renaissance Italy Tickle Your Fancy?

You know that saying, "the best laid plans of mice and men ..."? Well, unfortunately, it applies today.

We had planned to bring you another fabulous author interview, but tight deadlines, wild weather and a sick doggy have conspired against us and it is not to be. But never fear, next week is looking much more friendly to all concerned, and (with the crossing of a few fingers and toes) it is then that we will bring you our interview with Elizabeth Loupas, debut author of the wonderful literary mystery/ historical novel, THE SECOND DUCHESS.

Set in Renaissance Italy, THE SECOND DUCHESS is the story of Alfonso, Duke of Ferrara, and his new duchess, Barbara of Austria, who he takes as his bride after the mysterious death of his sensuous, and very young, first wife, Lucrezia de' Medici. Whispers and rumours about the duke and the dead Lucrezia abound, and when it seems Barbara's own life is at risk she sets out to discover the truth - whether her enigmatic husband did, indeed, murder his first wife.

If you love a beautifully written story, and one that keeps you on the edge of your seat, then pop back next week for our interview with Elizabeth, who will very kindly share her thoughts on writing, being a debut author, the joys of research, the Robert Browning poem that inspired her book, and so much more. We'll also be giving away one copy of THE SECOND DUCHESS to a randomly drawn commenter, from anywhere in the world.

So mark your diaries, and we'll see you back here next week!