Dear Jonas

I was inspired when a fellow blogger posted a letter to her characters a short time ago. What a novel idea, I thought. Then it hit me. Bella, the heroine from Becoming Beauty, is closely acquainted with the hero of my second novel, Jonas Selkirk. All the snarky things Bella would say to her friend filled my mind and in no time a most Bella-like letter emerged. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed crafting it!

Artwork from Ruth Sanderson's Fairytale Collection

Dearest Jonas:

We enjoyed hearing of the coming and goings at Lord Bromhurt's in your last letter. After your life in Stone and your time with us, I've no doubt it does feel like a foreign land. I recall the shock of entering into service for the first time as a naive young woman. I had the added benefit of being tossed out of my home and sent to serve a Beast at the same time. However, in the end, I won a place of respect in the Beast's household. I am confident that you can do the same in Lord Bromhurt's household. (As long as Lord Bromhurst isn't more beastly than You Know Who.)

Now, onto the real purpose of this letter. From the beginning, your correspondence has hinted at an acquaintance with a certain young noblewoman. Philip would have me remind you to tread carefully when dealing with Lord Bromhurst. Since Lady Bromhurt's death, he has become fiercely jealous and protective of his daughters. Jack would urge you to act honorably but to follow the dictates of your heart. And both gentlemen have warned me against poking my nose in where it doesn't belong, but when have I ever heeded their counsel? 

Take it from a woman who had to learn the hard way--love is a gift. It should neither be ignored nor neglected. If a woman like Lady Ariela has taken taken pains to befriend you, you would be a fool not to act. Trust me, Jonas, land and holdings, education, and social standing mean little beside true affection. If you let paltry matters of the world come between you and that young lady, you will regret it. (Also, I will personally travel to Lord Bromhurst's to talk sense into you and ensure that you do regret it.) 

I trust that we will hear of your declaration to Lady Ariela soon. As to news here at home, life runs on as usual, bumping along with only the occasional tantrum from His Royal Beastiness. (Since you're not here, the poor weeds take the brunt of it. Sometimes I almost feel sorry for them.) Overall, we are happy and busy. Jack, Philip, and the rest send their best regards. 

With affection, 

Bella

P.S. Other news of a more sensitive nature awaits your return to Stone. As you know, you are always welcome in our home. 

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If you'd like to know more about the adventures of Bella in Becoming Beauty, it's available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes, and Books & Things. For more about Jonas and Lady Ariela, read Interlude in the Rose Garden, Just a Taste, Embracing the Fangirl Within, Arguing With Myself, or Twelve for the Fourteenth. Hopefully, Twelve will make it to print soon!