I learn many interesting things whenever I visit Mrs. Merlin’s Academy for Select Young Ladies. As you may know, the school does not teach an ordinary curriculum of study. Oh, to be sure, there are lessons in dancing and deportment. But swordplay and seduction are by far the most important classes, along with basic training in yoga and the Eastern martial arts.
    Needless to say, the students are not your usual Regency debutantes. They are . . . well, the truth is, they are swashbuckling secret agents, trained to defend England from its most dangerous enemies. And as proof, I offer the following snippet of conversation between two “Merlins”, overheard outside the headmistress’s office as I was researching my latest book on their exploits, Seduced By A Spy.

Sofia: “Bloody hell, you are really in trouble now.”
Shannon: “To the devil with rules. If Lord Lynsley and Mrs. Merlin wish to expel me for riding to Siena’s rescue, so be it. The evidence indicated she was in dire trouble, and though it turns out I was wrong, I would do it again in a heartbeat.”
Sofia: “I know, I know, but do try to keep a rein on your temper during the meeting. Remember our lessons in discipline and duty.”
Shannon: (Expletive deleted.)
Sofia: “If you are going to ask for a second chance, I would suggest a different choice of words.”
Shannon: “Never fear—I will be a paragon of reason and restraint.”
Sofia: “Ha! And pigs may fly.”
Shannon: “Thanks for the vote of confidence, Fifi.” A long pause. “I’m awfully good with blades and bullets. Shouldn’t that be a mark in my favor?”
Sofia: “Hmmm.”
Shannon: “Perhaps I could offer to go after the Russian rogue who eluded Lord Lynsley’s forces at Marquand Castle. The dratted man is a menace to our country—not to speak of every woman within its borders.”
Sofia: “Nonnie, I am getting a bad feeling about this.”
Shannon: (blithely ignoring her friend): Oh, what I wouldn’t give to get my hands on Mr. Orlov.”
Sofia: (rolling her eyes): “Be careful what you wish for . . .”

Unfortunately, the door fell shut at that moment and I heard no more. However, be sure to stop back again soon, just in case I discover further news about Shannon and the mysterious Mr. Orlov.

OTHER NEWS

On a different note, I am delighted to announce plans for a new trilogy. Like the "Merlins," the Circle of Scientific Sybils revolves around a trio of beautiful, brainy ladies. Each of them possesses an exceptional intellect—and each of them hides a slightly shady past. The first book, scheduled to appear in January '10, features the reclusive Countess of Sheffield, who has been accused of . . .

Oh, but that would be spoiling the fun. Check back here for further updates on the new stories