Kara S. McKenzie
Sea Poetry
Full fathom five thy father lies, of his bones are coral made. Those are pearls that were his eyes. Nothing of him that doth fade, but doth suffer a sea-change into something rich and strange. (The Tempest, William Shakespeare) |
Ella Taylor
An English High Seas Romance Coming this fall, 2016... When Ella Taylor is rescued from a lifeboat adrift on the sea and carried aboard a ship, barely alive, she conveniently assumes a new identity, in efforts to escape her troublesome past. Captain Malcolm Windward is reticent to trust the young woman, whom he’s brought onto his ship and has reluctantly given his captain’s quarters to. Yet, with his own shadowed past and burdensome secrets, he can hardly fault her for not disclosing hers. His interest in her heightens, as she rallies from near death and manages to win the sailor’s affections with her feisty spirit and determined ways. Adventures on the ship, eventually lead them to England, where Malcolm and Ella must part ways. When Ella finds herself at the captain’s family’s home, in Maidenhead, and he offers her a possible future with him, she must make a choice. Her heart is inclined to say yes, yet how can she do so, when her secret threatens to destroy them both, if she does? |
1850's Ships
Life on a ship was difficult in the 1850's for sailors. Food did not keep long and the quarters were cramped. Much work was done throughout the day. If the sailors weren't keeping the vessel on coarse and running, they were cleaning the deck and rigging and repairing the sails. Their clothing took a beating with the harsh elements. Many sailors went barefoot. |
London in this Era
London was a teeming city as the industrial revolution was at full force. Horseless carriages were beginning to appear on the streets and coal smoke permeated the air and ground. Ladies in full hooped skirts strolled the city with men in top hats and suits. The port town kept busy and active. |
Masquerade Balls
Masquerade balls were one leisure activity the ladies and gentlemen enjoyed. Grand ballrooms housed large parties as the guests came dressed in their favorite costumes. Dancing, conversation and food was the entertainment of the evening. |