Sunday, October 11, 2015

THE HUMBUG MURDERS: Recipe from Dickens' London and guest author L.J. Oliver

http://www.scroogemysteries.com/
Learn more about
The Humbug Murders
by clicking here.


If you are a fan of Charles Dickens, Victorian London, or A Christmas Carol, you must put THE HUMBUG MURDERS on your reading list!

British-born author Elizabeth Wilson is our guest today, here to share a classic English recipe and give us the scoop on her highly entertaining new mystery, which Simon & Schuster is publishing later this month.

Elizabeth is also generously giving away a signed copy of THE HUMBUG MURDERS to one lucky commenter on this post.

So please welcome the English half of the L.J. Oliver team. Take it away, Elizabeth...

  *  *  *

When Cleo Coyle invited me to share a recipe with you all, I couldn’t believe my luck on the timing! I love the fall season, it’s the perfect time to play with the spicy flavors we’ll be relying on for the holidays. 

Of course, the holiday season was not so cozy for the Dickensian Londoners. While writing The Humbug Murders, a mystery featuring Ebenezer Scrooge as a reluctant detective, I got to enjoy researching how these early Victorians spent their Christmases. (Ok, I had a lot of help from my mum, who is a personal historian specializing in Victorian London. In fact, my family migrated to London from Ireland during the very time our murder mystery is set.)


Can you imagine spending a single Christmas on the streets of London no more than 150 years ago? Sure, if you were one of the wealthy few you’d have the time to enjoy the melodious harmonies of street carolers in the snow, or the soft waft of roasting chestnuts mingling with the spices of mulled cider.

But if, like the money-lender Ebenezer Scrooge and his assistant Dickens, you belonged to the working majority, you’d be cold, poor, and probably looking over your shoulder to avoid the revenge of the Colley Brothers, kings of the underworld. Perhaps, on your way home from borrowing just another few farthings to pay for a Christmas goose, you’d be wading through the ankle-deep gum of rotting straw and sewage covering the slippery cobbled streets. 


Hurrying through the warren of damp brickwork, eyes squinting in the smog, even if you suddenly heard a blood-curdling scream coming from a nearby warehouse, you wouldn’t want to miss a step or you’d slip into the stinking river Thames. Like so many of the missing London women…


Thank goodness we get to enjoy these scenes from the comfort and safety of 2015. I mean, just enjoying Christmas was hard enough back then, let alone trying to solve crimes! 

Can you tell I had so much fun writing this story? As a reader I just love being able to immerse myself into these strange and wonderful worlds, so when Scott Ciencin presented his idea to me back in 2012 it struck me like a shiny brass gong! I’d only just started writing, finally grabbing the courage to leave my sensible career and follow my dream of spinning yarns. Scott, on the other hand, was both a seasoned and acclaimed author with New York Times bestselling books under his belt. For some reason he liked my writing and believed we could create something magical together. He was right! 

But, as it turns out, my dear friend Scott won’t be there for the rest of this book’s journey. On August 5th 2014, Scott passed away. He died suddenly from a blood clot to the brain. Everything in my world stopped. We had just been finishing the last pages. Only days earlier we had been laughing together about some joke Scrooge had made to Dickens in the sewers of London. And now – my dear friend and writing partner was gone. 

With heavy hearts, Scott’s wife Denise and I polished up the manuscript and sent it to the publisher, Simon & Schuster. Now, as I look forward to the release of the book on October 27th 2015, it’s with a little sadness but mostly joy! I know this story is a great tribute to Scott’s legacy. 

And that’s no humbug! Ebenezer Scrooge is the perfect character for what we wanted our readers, and ourselves, to experience! He’s sharp, witty, and he gets to say the things we all wish we could. He looks at sentimentality with a wrinkle in his nose, which is extra fun when we slap it in the middle of Christmas season. And still – he hasn’t yet become the man we know from The Christmas Carol. He’s still young, there’s plenty of time for him to heal.

Which brings me to comfort food! This is something the Victorians were great at—in fact, many of the early Victorian recipes are still commonly served across England today. The recipe I want to share with you is one of my favorites: Spotted Dick! 


Elizabeth's beautiful
new baby, Penelope!
SPOTTED DICK

Spotted Dick is a traditional English steamed pudding that will always be a taste of home for me. It was a favorite during the Victorian era because it’s cheap (good for a Scrooge) and easy to make...

(I should know: I whipped this up yesterday while holding my three-week old daughter in one arm!) 

The pudding is stodgy but satisfying, and the spices make this a delicious dessert for Christmas. In fact, it’s almost like a pauper’s Christmas Pudding as it just lacks the mincemeat and the brandy! Of course, it’s so good and inexpensive that back home in England it’s served all times of the year. 

My mum always served this pudding with custard, but simple vanilla ice cream is a lighter partner to this soft but filling cake-like dessert. 

Ingredients:

3.5 oz self-rising flour

2 oz breadcrumbs (the Victorian way was to use up old stale bread, but you can use fresh bread too!)

4 tablespoons fine sugar

1 pinch salt, to taste

1/2 teaspoon mixed spice (see note below*)

4 oz raisins, sultanas, chopped apricots, or whatever dried, chopped fruit you can easily get hold of.

3.5 oz butter

1/2 cup milk 


*Note on "mixed spices": A blend of sweet spices that is commonly used in cakes and puddings in the UK. It's very similar to the pumpkin pie spice blend used here in the States. Cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, ginger, coriander, and mace in equal measure.

Method:

1. Add all the dry ingredients, dried fruit, spice and butter into a bowl then mix together well.



2. Add the milk and combine to form a soft dough. The dough should be soft and sticky, not runny like batter or firm like pastry.



3. Place the mixture into a buttered pudding bowl of about 1 quart capacity and cover with aluminum foil. I’ve noticed that since steamed puddings like this aren’t as common in America, not many people have pudding bowls. If you have any bowl that can withstand high temperatures, like a Pyrex or ceramic, that’ll work fine too. 



4.  Put an inverted saucer in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Place the pudding bowl on top of the inverted saucer (to keep it off the bottom of the pan). Create a water bath for the pudding by adding enough water to the pan to come up the sides of the pudding bowl but not so far up that you'll risk the water spilling into the bowl. Leave the foil on the pudding and the saucepan uncovered.

5. Bring the water to a boil and allow it to boil for 2 hours, adding additional water as it evaporates.

6. When the pudding is fully cooked, invert the pudding onto a plate and serve with cream or custard.





I hope you enjoy this delicious bit of Victorian England! From me and my fictional friend Ebenezer Scrooge: Bah Humbug! 



* * * * 


L.J. Oliver is the combined pen name of acclaimed author Elizabeth A. A. Wilson and New York Times bestselling author Scott Ciencin. Visit them at ScroogeMysteries.com.

Following a childhood in the snowy mountains of Scandinavia, Elizabeth traveled to her native England to study criminology and journalism. Inspired by her mother, a personal historian specializing in Victorian-era Britain, Wilson set about exploring the streets of London, where her family originally arrived from Ireland in 1833. She now lives in the United States with her American husband and two daughters, and focuses on her first love: story-telling. Read more at EAAWilson.com.

Ciencin wrote over ninety novels in the adult, YA, and children’s genres. A lifelong British mystery fan and Dickens aficionado, he began his career in the film and TV industry and continued in the business as an international film festival blogger, social media content provider, video game consultant, and creative consultant. He died in 2014.



"In Scrooge, L.J. Oliver has conjured a sharp amateur sleuth with a delightfully venomous wit who grapples with a cunning masked murderer, secret societies, and even undead spirits—long before Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol. No humbug here. The world of Dickens comes alive in this compelling whodunit. L.J. Oliver’s first Ebenezer Scrooge mystery is a pleasure to read.” 

~ Cleo Coyle, New York Times bestselling author
of The Coffeehouse Mysteries



Thank you for joining us today, Elizabeth!

Congrats to the winners
of the signed copies of
THE HUMBUG MURDERS


Cindy Jameson
and

parTea Lady



Thanks to everyone who left comments!

315 comments:

  1. Fabulous guest post! The book sounds wonderful. EMS591@aol.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I hope you like it LizNoVeggieGirl! Thank you so much for reading my post. :)

      Delete
  2. Awesome! Can't wait to read it. bromichaeladams@gmail

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's a corker, as we say back home ;) Good luck in the giveaway! Thank you so much for checking in.

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  3. I cannot wait to read this! This is my favorite time period. I would love to go back to Victorian England (as a wealthy person though). I got a little teary-eyed about your friend Scott passing just before finishing the book. But he will live on in the pages he wrote. I have always heard about spotted dick, the name always made me laugh. I will try your recipe. Thanks for the giveaway. eeyore722@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much for your warm words Cindy! What a journey it's been. I know Scott would have been so thrilled to see our book finished. I hope you love the Spotted Dick! Do let me know what you think of it!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  4. The dessert looks great. I've heard of that dessert but unfamiliar how it is made. Thanks for the chance to win :)
    jslbrown2009 at aol dot com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's delicious! If you try it, let me know what you think! :)

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  5. Oh Elizabeth, that's a heart-breaking story. Here's hoping the book will bring good memories of Scott to you. I wish you all success with this one and into the future.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much, Lucy. I'm so honored to have been able to write this with Scott.

      All my love

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  6. The release of this book must be so emotional for you. My sympathies to you on the loss of your friend and collaborator. And your daughter is lovely.

    The book sounds so intriguing! Spotted Dick Not As Much. I have never been a fan of dried fruit in anything. I will admit, every time I hear the name I giggle. (I am very mature that way) I will have the book on my to be read pile!!!!!

    ejbs3s@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for your warm words, Jody! Yes, it sure is an emotional time. Hahah, your comment about Spotted Dick had me snorting in public!!! I hope you love the book, do let me know what you think.

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  7. I love a good mystery. This sounds entertaining.
    jjrrdavid@live.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hope you like it! :) Do let me know what you think!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  8. I must have this book! Sounds like a wonderful Christmas read. Thank you for the chance. Dnrocker@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That warms my heart, Dawn! I do hope you like it, I certainly do! Good luck in the giveaway.

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  9. azelgert@gmail.com I had never heard of this pudding thank you for sharing the recipe and the history behind it. Thanks for this opportunity! I really would like to branch out in my reading.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks so much for entering, Aggie56! Spotted Dick is a classic back home but not so well known here in the States. Try making it as a gift for someone, the name alone will entertain them for sure! :)

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  10. It sounds like an excellent book. I'm very sorry about the loss of your writing partner.
    bpwoodfield@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Pamela! I think you'll like it :) Good luck and all the best,

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  11. I love reading how the regular people of long ago lived. This sounds made for me. Thanks. grammyd01@comcast.net

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It wasn't easy for the regular people in London back then! A lot of research went into finding out just how horrible London was, so I how you like it! Best of luck, Gram!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
    2. Oops, sorry, fat fingers! I *hope* you like it! ;)

      Delete
  12. Count me in! roswita(dot)hildebrandt@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  13. Love the recipe and the book! Thanks for the chance to win. lkleback@hotmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. And thank you so much for taking part, Ikleback! Hope you like the Spotted Dick, do let me know if you try it out!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
    2. This looks so good! Yes, the pudding and the book. Please, count me in. cornwallst59@hotmail.com

      Delete
  14. What a wonderful writing tale. I'm sure Scott was looking over your shoulder as you finished the story. Can't wait to read it. frybbe@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You know what, Laura? I think you might be right. Scott gave me a little dragon figurine before he died and I'm sure sometimes I could sense it smiling...
      Hope you love the book, do let me know what you think!
      Elizabeth

      Delete
  15. Wonderful post! Hoping the book's release will bring lots of happy memories, to you and Scott's wife/Denise. patucker54 (at aol dot com)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much Patricia! We are definitely excited to see how far the book has come. :) all my love!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  16. I love historical mysteries so I am looking forward to this one. Sorry for your loss but he will continue to live in your hearts and in his writings. Kuzlin at AOL.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think you're right, Kuzlin. :) Thank you so much for your comment and good luck in the giveaway!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  17. Would love to read this book! Thanks for the chance.
    brichardson0056@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My pleasure, Becky! Thanks for joining in. I hope you like it!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  18. What a fascinating post and a captivating historical mystery. Thanks for this beautiful recipe and book giveaway. saubleb(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, traveler! :) I do hope you like it, both the pudding and the book! (Best enjoyed together, perhaps!) Let me know what you think...

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  19. An interesting and intriguing historical which I would enjoy. A great post about an era and the novel. Many thanks. elliotbencan(at)hotmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, petite! I think you'll like this one, do let me know! :)

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  20. I lovd to find new eras to read about....recipe loks yummy!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh trust me, it's delicious! :) Let me know if you agree!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  21. I love all things victorian and this sounds intriguing. So sorry for your loss. dmskrug3 at hotmail dot com.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Daniele. If you like Victorian you'll love the pudding! :) Do let me know what you think of the story!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  22. So sorry that you lost your writing partner. I'd love to read this historical mystery.
    suefarrell.farrell@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much, Sue. I do hope you love the story! I think Scott would be proud of how it turned out.

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  23. As an avid "Christmas Carol" fan, I eagerly look forward to this Victorian mystery. dbahn@iw.net

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm a huge fan too, Dianne! :) hope you like it! Thank you so much for joining in.

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  24. This will make for a very interesting read. I am fascinated by the premise. Great idea. I know exactly what Spotted Dick is so glad to have a recipe. Looking forward to reading and eating! Sorry to hear about the passing of Scott.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, chelty! It's a cool premise, right? I couldn't say no! Hope you like it, and if you try out the Spotted Dick let me know what you think! Elizabeth

      Delete
  25. Thank you for sharing a bit of Victorian England with us, and for the recipe for spotted dick--I had heard of it but have never seen a recipe, and it looks delicious in your photo. I'm sorry to hear about Scott's passing -- it sounds like he was an amazing and talented man. Thanks for the giveaway and best wishes on the launch of your book! bobandcelia@sbcglobal.net

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Celia. Scott was one of the really good guys, never too big too reach down and lend a helping hand to one of the little people. I wouldn't be where I am without him! Good luck in the giveaway and thanks for playing!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  26. What a story to get to this book. It sounds like a great read. I have seen Spotted Dick while working in England but never tried it. Thanks for the recipe.

    Darling darling baby! Congrats.
    sallycootie@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Grandma Cootie! Isn't Penelope a cutie too? :) Hope you love the pudding, do let me know what you think! Elizabeth

      Delete
  27. Hmmm the Scrooge as a detective? Sounds interesting! :) Sorry that Scott won't be here to see the fruits of his (and yours) labor unfold. :(

    kidisitor@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think Scott would be stoked to see his idea in finished form! Scrooge makes a good detective precisely because of his cold and sharp wit. I wish I had the courage to be more like him, but I'd probably have fewer friends...

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  28. Sounds like a great book. Thanks for a chance to win a copy. I can't wait to try the recipe.
    elainehroberson@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Do let me know what you think of the pudding when you try it! It's so easy and delicious! :) Good luck in the giveaway, Elaine.

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  29. Love Dickens and I would like to win a copy of this book. annstanley1418@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dickens is brilliant, right? Good luck in the giveaway!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  30. Sounds like a good one. Looking forward to reading it. Thanks for the giveaway.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Good luck, Kim! Thank you for playing!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  31. I'm looking forward to reading this! Ursaminor8292@aol.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hope you like it, Michele! :) Let me know what you think!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  32. I'm looking forward to reading this! Ursaminor8292@aol.com

    ReplyDelete
  33. I would truly love to read this book. It sounds wonderful. Thanks for the contest!! chettysmom@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Your more than welcome, mligon, and thank you for playing! I hope you like it! :)

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  34. I love the mysteries that come with recipes. Have tried many of the recipes and enjoy trying things I have only heard of in books. Thanks sfor the chance to win a copy of your book and for the recipe.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's so much fun trying new things, both in the library and in the kitchen! If you try out this recipe do let me know what you think of it!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  35. A great mystery and recipes, too! I'd love to read this! Thank you!
    mittens0831 at aol dot com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Carol! Hope you like it!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  36. This looks like a wonderful mystery! rachelkb at gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hope you like it! Good luck in the giveaway!

      Elizabeth :)

      Delete
  37. A great sounding book and a recipe! What a win today. The book sounds wonderful--I've already marked it down to make sure I read it. Thanks for writing it.
    madonnatsmith@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much for that lovely comment, Madonna. I really hope you like the book! Let me know what you think of it!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  38. This looks liked an awesome read, thanks for this awesome chance. Linda May lindamay4852@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. And thank YOU for playing, Linda May! Good luck!

      :)

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  39. I love the title! It sounds like a fun book. Thank you for the opportunity to win! crossxjo@hotmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was certainly fun to write! :) hope you love it, good luck in the giveaway!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  40. We love A Christmas Carol so much that we buy every version we can find in video. Some are downright silly but our favorite versions are one with George C. Scott and a very old one with Alastair Sim. What a great idea to put Scrooge in a murder mystery. I can't wait to read it and it's coming out at the perfect time of year! Thanks for the giveaway also!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh my gosh, George C Scott was certainly the best version, in my opinion! But you know, I actually also really liked Jim Carrey's interpretation too.

      I hope you like ours as well! :)

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  41. WOW! This sounds like a terrific book! And I love Cleo Coyle...so if she is recommending it....it had to be "one to read"!!!
    lmdearden@wbsnet.org

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I hope you like it, miss millie! I'm a big Cleo Coyle fan like you so the fact that she likes our book is mind-blowing and most humbling indeed! :)

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  42. What a great guest post! Thanks for the intro to such an intriguing story, and the chance to win!
    JHolden955(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, holdenj! Good luck in the giveaway, let me know what you think of the book!

      Elizabeth :)

      Delete
  43. My favorite Christmas movie is "A Christmas Carol " I own many of the different versions of the movie and of course the book. I have added this book to my TBR list. vlhcats@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Vicki! It's one of my favorite Christmas movies too, it has such a magical message: it's never too late! Hope you like the book!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  44. First sorry for your loss what a shock. The book sounds great. I love British mysteries and Scrooge is one of my favorite stories so win win. Thank.you for.sharing today. This is a must read for me.
    lhxp73@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for your warm words, Deb. I know Scott would have been so proud to see the finished book. :) I do hope you like it, and good luck in the giveaway!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  45. Thanks to everyone for their beautiful comments! I just heard from Elizabeth who has been trying to reply to your comments all day. It seems Blogger is blocking her and she's working out a solution. She'll try another browser. And that's my advice to anyone else having trouble...if you're using one browser, switch to another. Or try another device if possible. We've had problems with Blogger in the past and it's quite frustrating, so I do hope you'll keep trying.

    In the meantime, the contest will remain open all week and Elizabeth and I thank you again for your very kind comments...

    xoxo

    - Cleo

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. A different device did the trick! Thank goodness for smart phones! Sorry again for being so late and thanks to Cleo and everyone for your patience. :)

      Delete
  46. I just love historical mysteries and adding Christmas makes it even better! I'm so sorry for the loss of your writing partner, and hope you toast him with happy memories on your release day! I am quite the Anglophile, but I admit I have never had spotted dick. Thanks for the recipe-I need to give it a try!

    cozyupwithkathy @ gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Kateander! I hope you try out the Spotted Dick - if you do, be sure to let me know what you think of it! :) I'll certainly toast Scott on 27th October - hope you'll join me wherever you are.

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  47. I'm so sorry for your loss. This would be quite emotional in many different ways. I love forward to reading this book though. And thank you for the chance at a signed copy.
    Awilcox1182@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Amanda. It has certainly been a strange journey. I do hope you love the book! :)

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  48. If anyone is having trouble commenting here on Blogger, we apologize! You can comment on Elizabeth's facebook post by CLICKING HERE and we will include you in the drawing that way. Cheers and thanks to everyone for their patience and kind comments! - Cleo

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you to everyone who commented here and over on Facebook! Thanks for your patience and for waiting for me while I figured out how to post my own comments! :)

      Delete
  49. I want to read this. Additionally, the recipe (can we name it something else? Ha!) Is easy enough for me. How long does it steam until done? The book will be a tribute to your good friend. He's immortal now. Harriette
    hharra (at) BSU (dot) edu

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for that lovely comment! I think Scott would be so happy to see the book in its final form. Try steaming the pudding for two hours to begin with. It should be springy to touch. Good luck and let me know what you think of it! (No, we certainly can not change the name, it's waaay too funny!! :)

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  50. kat8762@aol.com. I've always been fascinated by Dickens' London often fantasizing about being a member of the aristocracy at Christmas time...the clothes, the food, the Christmas carols around the tree. I am very interested in this book and the recipe is on my baking cue. Thanks for hosting a great giveaway.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for playing!! I'm like you, I could dream about the era for hours. My mum lives in a Victorian house in Derbyshire, so I love going back for Christmas and drinking mulled wine by the fire. (Florida is nivlce but it's not quite the same...)

      Elizabeth

      Delete
    2. Florida is *nice* - I shouldn't be typing with a cat on my lap!

      Delete
  51. First and foremost I want to say that I am sorry for the loss. I absolutely can not wait to read this! This sounds FANTASTIC!!! bubs(dot)girl(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much, Tonya. I really hope you like it! Do let me know!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  52. This new series looks awesome!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Kath! Hope you like it!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  53. Congratulations of the birth of your sweet little baby! My goodness but you have been living through dramatic ups and downs. I am so sorry about the loss of Scott. So sudden and tragic. Your book looks wonderful. I love the cover. But now every time I think of a charming Dickens Christmas, I'll be thinking about the grungy side of life, too.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's certainly been a strange journey...thanks so much for your warm words, Krista. I guess life has its grungy ups and downs in any era! :) I hope you like our version of a Dickensian Christmas!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  54. This sounds good and different I image he is quiet the character.
    Theresa N
    weceno(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Theresa! I hope you like it!

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  55. Stories like this give me a warm, fuzzy feeling inside! My sincere condolences on the loss of your dear friend Scott. I can't wait to dive into this world you created together!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oops....krtanner@gmail.com :)

      Delete
    2. Thank you so much for your warm words, Kristi! Do let me know what you think of our version of Dickensian London! :)

      Elizabeth

      Delete
    3. Thank you so much for your warm words, Kristi! Do let me know what you think of our version of Dickensian London! :)

      Elizabeth

      Delete
  56. This sounds like a wonderful book. So very sorry for the tragic and sudden loss of your writing partner. And a big congrats on the birth of you baby. Thanks for the opportunity to win this book. kayt18 at comcast dot net

    ReplyDelete
  57. Such a great premise for a book! This looks so good! thank you for sharing with us! christy41970 at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  58. Looks like a great book, interesting recipe ...��...looking forward it trying both��
    cmeier2001@live.com

    ReplyDelete
  59. Can't wait to read this. I hope to try the recipe.

    ReplyDelete
  60. This mystery sounds SO intriguing! I'm sure the publication will be somewhat bittersweet but a wonderful way to honor Scott's memory. Thank you for the giveaway and the recipe, which I intend to try! bskts4unme@hotmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  61. Not sure my original comment posted. I love the post and the book sounds amazing!

    ReplyDelete
  62. Victorian England, mystery, Charles Dickens.....what's not to like? Even a traditional old English recipe!!!
    vernagass@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  63. I love reading stories that are set in Victorian England. This one sounds great. garczynski @ aol . com.

    ReplyDelete
  64. I love the idea of Ebenezer as detective! What a great concept! I've already added it to my to-read list. So sorry about Elizabeth's writing partner. I'm sure the book will be a great honor to his memory.

    ReplyDelete
  65. The plot of this books sounds very interesting to me, hope I win it! carter.karen@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  66. Congratulations on the birth of Penelope. Condolences on the loss of your friend and
    co-writer Scott.
    Looking forward to reading The Humbug Murders.

    jtcgc at yahoo dot com

    ReplyDelete
  67. English food really has great names and I cannot wait to try Spotted Dick. I am looking forward to the Humbug Murders, great tribute to you and your writing partner.
    davisel1830@hotmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  68. This looks fantastic! I will definitely be adding it to my TBR pile! I'm a huge fan of Simon & Schuster publishing! Can't wait to read it!

    hammer.kala@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  69. another book to add to my list....sounds like a really good read.
    mtracy1@new.rr.com

    ReplyDelete
  70. Sharon Baker slpetera@yahoo.comOctober 11, 2015 at 9:37 PM

    See the movie or play every year. Love it. Can't wait to read this new book, it sounds fantastic.

    ReplyDelete
  71. This sounds like a fun and amazing twist! Good luck to all. Sherylhbooth@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  72. Looking forward to reading this book! My aunt was a longtime member of the Dickens Fellowship and she instilled a love of all things Dickens in her nieces and nephew. mattell@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  73. This sounds like an awesome read. I'm a Dickens aficionado, so this will be another way to look at Scrooge. I have eaten Spotted Dick, thanks for the recipe. bbeell (at) windstream (dot) net

    ReplyDelete
  74. So sorry to hear about Scott! Congratulations on your beautiful daughter! The book sounds very good.

    ElaineE246 at msn dot com

    ReplyDelete
  75. This looks to be a very fun read...can't wait! Thanks for the chance. Kim. kewbrca95@hotmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  76. Thank you so much for the chance to meet you and learn more about your mystery book! I'm so very sorry to hear about the passing of your friend and writing partner. Thank you for the chance to win a copy! dblaser(at)windstream(dot)net

    ReplyDelete
  77. I love when the book cover alone grabbed my attention. Now a must read!

    ReplyDelete
  78. I am eager to read this new series. I would love to win a copy of The Humbug Murders. I am sorry about Scott's passing. It's tough losing a special person.
    I wish you lots of happiness on the birth of your daughter. So enjoy all the adventures she will take you on. Thanks. blue_earth_22@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  79. I'd be happy to win this book - great idea!
    rebarger@bellsouth.net

    ReplyDelete
  80. The book sounds great. :)
    pmettert@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  81. I love historical mysteries so this one is going on my TBR pile. Thanks for the recipe

    gibsonbk at hiwaay dot net

    ReplyDelete
  82. I'm submitting my entry from my London hotel room that is next door to the Dicken's Room. This book was meant for me!

    ReplyDelete
  83. I would love the chance to experience a new author and get get swept away to an era rich in history.
    Deana
    Jhdwayne(at)peoplepc(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  84. Congrats to Elizabeth for her new baby and a new book! I'd love to read this one. I'll definitely try the recipe because it looks delish and easy.
    brizitka2001(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  85. Recipe sounds grea t, book also sound gre at . Thanks. For the chance.

    ReplyDelete
  86. My email is janngrogan@yahoo.com thanks again.

    ReplyDelete
  87. I read a lot of "english" mysteries. Nice to see what spotted dick really is. als(at)foxgull (dot) com

    ReplyDelete
  88. Hello everyone! Sorry I'm late to the party, I had some tech issues yesterday! I just wanted to say thank you for your warm words, I read your comments with tears. I know Scott would have been humbled by all the love you have shown. I'm so excited about this book and can't wait to hear what you think of it. Good luck to everyone in the giveaway ! I'd love to stay in touch, so visit me on my site if you fancy receiving my monthly newsletter or if you have any suggestions for the next story in the series. Www.eaawilson.com
    Lots of love to all!

    Elizabeth

    ReplyDelete
  89. This is going to be a great one!! I love England and visiting there so many times! The recipe for sure I'll try over the holidays too! Thanks!! Will look at all the kindle books!!
    rhea.kryger@gmail.com Thanks in advance if I win!!

    ReplyDelete
  90. And would love to win it for my B'day reading Oct 17!! Thanks! Rhea

    ReplyDelete
  91. I LOVE EVERYTHING DICKEN'S AND WOULD SO LOVE TO WIN THIS BOOK. THANK YOU Rhea for the yummy recipe.

    ReplyDelete
  92. This sounds like an awesome book. I would love to win a copy. Thanks for the chance.
    The dessert looks really good too. I have not heard of it, but it sounds great and easy to make, love that.
    So sorry to hear about Scott's passing.
    And congrats on the baby, so cute, and the soon release of your book.
    jen.frederick@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  93. It looks like an interesting book. Your baby is adorable. rblerner@ptd.net

    ReplyDelete
  94. This book sounds interesting. I am adding it to my TBR list. Thanks for the opportunity to win it. raquel36m(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  95. The book sounds like one I'd thoroughly enjoy. Thanks for the chance to win!

    bunkielisa at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  96. How sad about your partner, but how marvelous to have the book published.

    ReplyDelete
  97. This was a truly fascinating article/story and it definitely has given me the best reasons to order this book...wonderful!!! Congratulations to you, Elizabeth on the release and your beautiful baby girl. So sorry about Scott's passing and I will definitely be following on your site to get to know more about your future plans in the literary world. I would be honored to win a copy of your book as knowing all that has gone into this project and book makes it such a special treasure. Thank you.
    Cynthia Blain ceblain(AT)tmlponline(DOT)net

    ReplyDelete
  98. The book sounds amazing. I know I have it preordered and can't wait to read it.
    Frauenb@aol.com

    ReplyDelete
  99. I'm so excited to learn of a new author in my favorite time period! editingpen614 at gmail

    ReplyDelete
  100. Must try Spotted Dick! Awesome!

    ReplyDelete
  101. Such a unique name
    hopetoread at email dot com

    ReplyDelete
  102. What a great posting you have here. Thank you for sharing your information on The Humbug Murders. Added to my to be read list. robeader53@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  103. Dickens' A Christmas Carol is my favorite Christmas story. As soon as I saw the title of your book it went on my 'gotta get that book' list. I look forward to reading The Humbug Murders and it would be awesome if it was a signed copy. Hathor.mcw@comcast.net

    ReplyDelete
  104. I have been on a British mystery writer obsession for a few months now. I can hardly wait to start a new one with such a great character premise!

    ReplyDelete
  105. I love being introduced to new to me authors. This book looks like a great read! I am truly sorry for the loss of your friend and writing partner, I am sure it makes the publishing of this book a bit bitter sweet for you and his wife. Thank you for the chance to win a copy. cricketchey@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  106. I hope to win this book! Nookwormwriter at live dot com

    ReplyDelete
  107. This book sounds really great. Another winner. nice to meet you and congrats on the new arrival. Dinolady22@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  108. My sincerest condolences on the passing of your friend and collaborator, Scott Ciencin. He will be truly missed in the literary world, as well as in your new world of mystery writing. I am impressed on your choice of detective for your foray into the Victorian age. Many people can identify with a younger Scrooge which will create even more readers for you. I hope that you will continue the series and include other adaptable Victorian recipes. My husband made us a version of the Christmas pudding and it left something to be desired! I will pass on your recipe to him and hope your pudding turns out as delicious as the picture! I can't wait to read your book because I love learning about the Victorian Age. My email is akeenan21@yahoo.com AnneMarie Keenan

    ReplyDelete
  109. ooooh I can't wait to read this! Sounds awesome. I love a good mystery and set in Victorian times AND a Christmasy themed-pun title, to boot. And of course, with a recipe or two thrown in--a win/win combo!! Excited!

    ReplyDelete
  110. so distracted by the book that I forgot to put my email. Sorry--profhollister@gmail.com :)

    Got to go read now!!

    ReplyDelete
  111. Loved Christmas Carol. I'm looking forward to seeing a new side of Scrooge

    ccbake13@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  112. I love this idea. candieluster(at)gmail(dot)com

    thank you

    ReplyDelete
  113. I enjoyed the post and I'm looking forward to reading this book. kittygirl15401@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  114. Love the idea of Scrooge as a detective! I look forward to reading this.
    stampaliz@aol.com

    ReplyDelete
  115. I love reading new ideas! saracarver07@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  116. i look forward to reading this book!

    ReplyDelete
  117. What a wonderful sounding book and the post was great Babsbookbistro@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  118. What a great story idea. Your daughter is beautiful.
    benmec711@aol.com

    ReplyDelete
  119. Love British mysteries! Look forward to reading yous. "Spotted Dick" has been mentioned in numerous stories I've read but I never knew exactly what it was -- didn't sound very appetizing. Now am looking forward to trying your recipe. Sounds very similar to the "Christmas Pudding" my mother baked at the holidays.

    ReplyDelete
  120. Love your books with the great recipes. Loved Dickens as a child and to this day every Christmas I go to see a Dickens play. Hope to be reading your new book soos. Thank you. slpetera@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  121. Recipe looks easy enough, can't wait to try it out.
    pui_pui637@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  122. Recipe looks easy enough, can't wait to try it out.
    pui_pui637@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  123. Love your books with the great recipes. Loved Dickens as a child and to this day every Christmas I go to see a Dickens play. Hope to be reading your new book soos. Thank you. slpetera@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  124. I have always been a big fan of 'The Christmas Carol' and have seen it many times! I also love a good mystery and cannot wait for 'The Humbug Murders' series to come out. Sounds delicious! The recipe, however, I am not too sure about!
    Thanks for sharing your story.
    btsparky@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  125. Love your books - have them all. jane

    ReplyDelete
  126. Really interesting. The book sounds great. I always wonder what Spotted Dick was. It's a lot more appetizing in the picture! Good luck in the series. It sounds great!

    ReplyDelete
  127. This looks interesting. Definitely putting this on my to read list. Christik311@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  128. Sounds awesome! I cannot wait to read this! Thanks for the recipe, I will be sure to try it!
    angelhwk68@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  129. Can't wait to read you're book, I'm also so very sorry for your loss.

    ReplyDelete
  130. One of my favorite types of mysteries. I also love reading books by Anne Perry set in old England.

    ReplyDelete
  131. I am super-excited about this book. And I can't believe how easy Spotted Dick looks. I always thought it would be tricky to make--I can't wait to try it! wendy@winniewoohoo.com

    ReplyDelete
  132. So looking forward to reading your new book!

    ReplyDelete
  133. Poor misunderstood Scrooge .. at least the Scrooge everyone thinks they know, lol. Every year I watch the movie from the 1970s with Albert Finney. Gets me teary eyed everytime. dcgirl919@hotmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  134. What a wonderful guest blogger! Your book sounds fantastic. I've always loved the Victorian era as a setting for romances and mysteries and now that the weather is getting colder, your book sounds like the perfect choice!

    ReplyDelete
  135. I'm so excited to read this book. I re-read a Christmas Carol every year. It will be such a treat to have a new take on a favorite old story. Adding the recipe to my holiday list to add some Victorian flair. Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  136. Always wondered exactly what spotted dick was! There's a line in the old movie version of Murder on the Orient Express where Hercule Poirot says to the butler who referred to this dessert, "But I think you've been spotted!" freelsda@hotmail.com

    ReplyDelete
  137. I'm reading a mystery about Eliza Doolittle and Higgins. Enjoy those kinds of stories. Fun to read different cultures and times.
    thanks for the chance to try this one.
    txmlhl@yahoo.com

    ReplyDelete