The nature of reality, human nature, the meaning of transcendence, the pursuit of the unattainable, the yearning for union.
Iri Gonzalez asked:
Dear L.R. Fredericks,
I haven’t been able to think clearly since finishing Farundell. I came across it after searching for avant-garde fantasy books, and while most novels I was recommended disappointed, your book was truly a warm, inviting surprise. I have found myself heartbroken over the ending, especially while being mesmerized by the Damory family and their wondrous estate. I have to ask – was it always your plan for Paul and Sylvie’s story to end that way? Or did you come to that realization after you began developing the characters?
Thank you!
Iri.
l.r.fredericks answered:
Hello,
I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed Farundell. It was my first novel, and I actually don’t remember all that much about the details of its development. It took 5 years to write. I hope you’ll check out my other novels, Fate and The Book of Luce, which, although completely free-standing, do share a few of the characters and themes of Farundell. All good wishes to you!
Miriam Boland asked:
I just have finished Farundell, which has upset my bearings, I’ve spent the day in a daze. Troubled as I am by our dreadful president and the Pandemic, this book put me in such a different world — mindful in a way of Tom Stoppard’s Arcadia– and I’m having a hard time coming back to this time, this reality. So tell me, why are there no more books, other than Fate, or this family, as promised? I want, no, need more of Alice, who I loved so thoroughly, as I love Flavia! Please, write more if you can; you’re depriving us of your great gift. And if not, thanks for Farundell, the standalone gem that it is!
Wholeheartedly,
Miriam
l.r.fredericks answered:
Hello Miriam, Thanks so much for the kind words. It means a lot to me to hear from readers, and your appreciation really helps. There is one more book, The Book of Luce, that I think you’ll enjoy, as Alice is in it too, though you may not recognise her at first. It’s available from Amazon, and can be ordered from independent bookshops, too. I’m working on a fourth book now, so stay tuned. All the very best to you!
Christina Beaulieu asked:
Dear L.R Fredericks,
2-3 years ago I set out to find a very specific type of novel. I had never heard of you or any of your wonderful books, but when I found Farundell tucked away on a shelf in a secondhand store I immediately knew it was what I was looking for.
Since that time I have kept Farundell by my bedside— reading, rereading and skimming through my favourite parts whenever that specific need arises once again and I feel lonely for your characters. It has the ability to make me laugh, cry, and long for something that I don’t think I’ll ever quite be able to pinpoint. Last summer I ordered Fate, and by your suggestion: John Crowley’s Little, Big. I’ve loved reading both, but nothing will ever touch me in just the way Farundell does. It’s my favourite book of all time, I think! Thank you so very much for your beautiful writing. Any tips on writing a novel as captivating as yours? (You’ve inspired me!!)
This month I’m travelling to England for the first time in my life, and you can be sure I’ll be visiting Oxfordshire in search of the magical, beloved Farundell— all the while remaining ever vigilant for perhaps a glimpse of Francis?!
~ your most captivated reader,
Christina E. B.
Rebecca asked:
I don’t have a question. I just want to tell you how incredible The Book of Luce is. I cant stop thinking about it. I so want it all to be real. Maybe not the “Demons”, but you have to take good with the bad I guess. I have read the previous 2 books also, and whilst they are always in my list of “top reads”, Luce is something else entirely. It’s amazing. Thank you so much for writing it. I will treasure it always.
l.r.fredericks answered:
Thanks so much! It means a lot to me to know my work touches people, is valued and enjoyed.
Mark asked:
Dear LR, thank you enthralling me with your three books. I am (deliberately?) reading them in the “wrong” order – starting with the psychedelic Luce (so many memories of my 1960s youth – whoever that was!) which I found a wonderful evocation of those somewhat liminal times. Have just finished the gloriously poetic Farundell, and have persuaded myself that I AM allowed to read Fate now and don’t have to save it up.
SO… a question… were these three books already formed as a Trilogy when you started writing or did they evolve?
l.r.fredericks answered:
Hello Mark,
It’s lovely to hear from appreciative readers, and I’m sorry it’s taken so long to get back to you – the website was supposed to notify me when people posted, but didn’t. You left a very nice review on Amazon, didn’t you? Thank you for that – it’s really useful.
There’s no right or wrong order in which to read the books – I worked very hard to make sure that each stands alone – yet obviously they enhance each other as you re-encounter characters either before or after you first met them. And I never intended a trilogy – it’s just that I’ve written three novels so far. I’ve always had others in mind, dealing with the same people, places and themes, slotting in between the present three, but also set long before or long after. For example, in the Nazi era, dealing with eugenics and Luce’s conception and birth. Also, a sci-fi novel, set thousands of years in the future when Lucianity is a galactic religion.
I imagine you’ve read Fate by now … and perhaps started rereading!
Once again, thanks for your kind words, and the very gratifying sense you’ve given me that you really ‘get’ my work!
Wallace Robinson asked:
I heard your interview on druidcast. Great interview!!! I bought and just started Farundell. I am looking forward to the adventure.
~Wallace Robinson
l.r.fredericks answered:
Thanks, that was a fun interview with Philip! I hope you enjoy my books.
Alessandra asked:
Dear L. R., I’m Alessandra from Italy and I’m a great fan of yours!! I love your novels, I think they are simply beautiful!! I liked them very much!! Could you kindly suggest me some contemporary Gothic novels similar to yours?? Could you suggest me some titles?? You know, I love Gothic fiction and the Victorian period too!!
Please let me know something because I’m so curious about your suggestions!! Please don’t forget about me!!
Thanks for all, bye, Alessandra
l.r.fredericks answered:
Hello Alessandra,
I’m so glad you like my work! Just off the top of my head I could suggest, among recent books, Susannah Clarke’s Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell, Sarah Waters’ The Little Stranger and Affinity, Angela Carter’s The Magic Toyshop and of course (as mentioned in Farundell) John Crowley’s stupendous Little, Big. Happy reading!
Brittany asked:
I fell in love with Fate and am currently reading Farundell. I came to the website to find out if I could look forward to reading anything else by you. I was thrilled to read that there will be another book soon! Best Christmas gift I could have asked for! No questions, just wanted to let you know that a uni student in northern Canada is spending her downtime (and some study time) absorbed in the world you’ve so eloquently created. Thank you!
l.r.fredericks answered:
Dear Brittany,
I’m so pleased you’re enjoying my work! I love writing, and always hope to make a great connection with my readers. Yes, another one is in the works! It will be called The Book of Luce and, after a lot of delays, is now scheduled for publication in March, 2017.
Riccardo asked:
Dear L.R. Fredericks,
I have finished reading the splendid “Fate” a few days ago and I was completely charmed and enticed by its plot and its characters. I miss it terribly; I feel like something’s amiss now that Lord Francis is not around any more, and I have a thousand questions still itching to be answered.
I have not yet read “Farundell” (though I shall, and very soon, as I’m particularly looking forward to meeting my dear friend Francis again), and I know you are writing “A book of Luce”, but I wanted to ask you if you ever plan to delve deeper into Tobias’s story. It would be extremely interesting and inspiring to learn how Tobias himself discovered the existence of the Stone, how it came into his possession and how his equally triumphant approach to its finding faded into despair at him having to abandon his ailing children behind. And, of course, what happened of him.
Thank you for taking your time to answer.
l.r.fredericks answered:
Hello Riccardo, Thanks so much for your kind response, I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed Fate! I must admit to feeling much the same sense of loss when I finished writing it. Francis appears briefly in The Book of Luce, (as does Tobias!) which is set in contemporary times, and will also figure prominently in at least one other planned book, which will be set in the 1930’s. And yes, I do have in mind to tell Tobias’s story as well. All the very best to you, and I hope you enjoy Farundell!
Meg Braun asked:
I have read both books twice – hate coming to the end of them- life is not the same without being able to look forward to reading them in bed. Please when is the next one? It looks like I might have to have a 3rd reading of them. They are wonderful – in the full meaning of the word. Thank you.
l.r.fredericks answered:
Hello Meg, thank you for your kind comments! The Book of Luce is due out next year — I’m still writing it now. If you happen to have the paperback edition of Fate, the first chapter is in the back….
Naomi Lyons asked:
I’ve read Farundell and also Fate which I just loved. It really described Lord Francis life well, especially when he tried to strangle his father. Shame so many of the women he had relationships died. Sorry no questions.
l.r.fredericks answered:
Hi Naomi,
Thanks for the comments! It was difficult killing off so many people of whom, in many cases, I’d grown quite fond. But in the 18th century people very often died young, and Francis’s friends and lovers end up doing far better than the average.
Naomi Lyons asked:
I’ve just finished reading “Farundell” which I really enjoyed. I loved Alice but I wasn’t so keen on the character of Sylvie. I thought she was a “cockteaser” but Paul didn’t seem to be aware of that. I also loved the “magic” in the story. No questions – just comments.
l.r.fredericks answered:
Hi Naomi, so good to hear that you’ve enjoyed Farundell. Not everyone likes smart-ass Alice, but I’m glad you do! And Sylvie can’t really be described as a cockteaser because it’s not a tease – she genuinely wants sex and has it whenever possible! But she’d quite annoying in plenty of other ways. Fate, my second novel, is out in paperback in a couple of weeks (hardback and kindle now) – it’s Francis Damory’s story, which you might enjoy as well. Thanks for the comment, and all good wishes to you.
Laurie asked:
Of course! Like the Astors and the Churchills, American women who transformed the lavatorial experience of the English (maybe British) ruling class. I meant definition 1) pertaining to washing, but come to think of it… No wonder their, and the Damorys’ house parties were so popular. Elsewhere, despite the ranks of servants, it must have been draughty and uninviting. I did not doubt that you had done the research. It is integral, intrinsic, not obtrusive. In short, impressive because apparently effortless. Yes, a compliment. Wasn’t attempting to catch you out – no contest there. How do you do your bibliomancy, on this site, I wonder? The process, I mean. Like Paul’s with the camera and the book? An autograph camera – ah, I want one.
Laurie asked:
How come Farundell has so many bathrooms? In the 19 teens/20s in Britain? No, couldn’t be. Would they say WC? or lavatory? I know not. Farundell charms me. Would you like to be entertained also?
l.r.fredericks answered:
Ha! I love it when readers try to catch me out in historical errors, but I have done my research! Percy married a very rich American (Odelia) and she (like other American heiresses who married into the English aristocracy) updated the plumbing. The terms WC and lavatory were both used — all the language I used was carefully researched in contemporary sources as well, of course, as the OED
Elena Korre asked:
Dear R.L. Fredericks, I am getting to the end of Fate, it’s been four days of reading to fantasy and dream. I loved Farundell too. I want to ask you, how I can study further on Hermetism? Thank you for your time.
l.r.fredericks answered:
Hi Elena, I’m so pleased you’re interested in the Hermetic tradition. First, check out the Wikipedia articles on “The Hermetica” and related topics; they may well lead you to other sources. I can also recommend Freke and Gandy’s book, called The Hermetica, Lost Wisdom of the Pharaohs. Brian Copenhaver’s book is more scholarly, burt very good. Some of these are mentioned in the Notes section of Farundell, in the back, and also in the “Library” on my website. All best!
Hennie asked:
Dear L.R. Fredericks, how can I address a genius, for that is what you are : genius.
I am on page 340 of Fate and what I was wondering about is why it looks like the women in your book are described as objects where the men are more of subjects?
The speed of action takes the breath away, which in this case is rather a good thing.
I love the way in which you just very lightly touch on the Mysteries, while being completely amids of them.
I can only say : well done, very well done.
l.r.fredericks answered:
Thanks for your comments! All I can say in reply to the question is that it certainly
doesn’t seem that way to me. The women feel equally real to me, but
of course the story is narrated by a man, an 18th c. man at that,
and reflects his perspective.
Just read Fate for review. It is so fabulous that for once I am wondering how to describe it-how would you describe your novel. It is historical fiction but it is so much more. Simply I love it.
l.r.fredericks answered:
What a lovely response, thank you so much! But what a tough question. Fate, the characters, the story, the places, the clothes and the music … the whole life of the Eighteenth century so consumed me for the two years that I worked on the novel — I really don’t think I have the “critical distance” needed to describe the whole thing. I do certainly intend it to be “more than” an historical novel in that I always want to deal with themes that transcend particular epochs or, for that matter, genres. My first novel, Farundell, was an attempt to transcend the country house genre; my third, on which I’m working now, will be my take on the espionage thriller, set in the early 1930’s and dealing, like Fate, with the perfectability, or not, of Man. I am sorry not to be more helpful…if you’d like to lob some slightly more specific questions at me, I’d be happy to try to answer them.
Sienna asked:
What drew you to hermeticism as a thematic element in your books? I was also wondering about Paul’s aphoristic photographs (for lack of better terminology) and your background as a visual artist — are they based on your own work? If not, have you considered creating them? I’m doing a PhD on early modern alchemy and cannot imagine a more appropriate way to circumvent writer’s blocks and researcher’s ruts! Best wishes for Fate’s speedy publication, positive reviews and a wide audience. Can’t wait to read it.
l.r.fredericks answered:
Hi Sienna,
I’ve been a student of hermeticism for many, many years. I guess you could say I’m just so steeped in it that it comes out in everything I do. I’d originally subtitled Farundell “An Hermetic Novel” but my publishers – very rightly – suggested I drop it. It’s a bit affected, perhaps?!! The next one, Fate, also has an invisible subtitle – its “A Rosicrucian Tale,” after Bulwer-Lytton’s Zanoni. As a student of alchemy you’ll really enjoy Fate, as it’s about … alchemy.
Paul’s bibliomancy and chaos-tarot are also partly inspired by cut-up texts, such as William Burroughs did, and David Bowie in tribute to Burroughs. I would adore to do some photos like Paul’s. The actual Kodak camera he used (of which I obtained, on ebay, a non-working example) has just a tiny box for words – I exaggerated a bit to fit in the words I wanted. But I do have a sort of project in mind combining video, music (at which I also dabble) and written words. Stay tuned!
Paul Hardaker asked:
Hi there,
in the back of the book you mention your good friends Philip and Stephanie Carr-Gomm. I was just wondering if you have studied/been influenced by much of Druidry?
Only on chapter 4 but very much enjoying your book – I haven’t a clue how it will develop and I like that a lot. I’m finding it’s one of those books which creates an atmosphere which stays with you somewhat even when you are not actually reading it…
Best wishes,
Paul
l.r.fredericks answered:
Hi Paul,
So glad you’re enjoying the book. And a good question! I’ve been drawn mainly to the Hermetic side of the Western Magical Tradition, but there’s a lot about druidry that I find very appealing. Philip and Stephanie’s order, OBOD, is an excellent organisation with a very good teaching programme and although I don’t consider myself a “druid” – I eschew labels as much as possible – I have very much enjoyed working with some of them!
L J Kaldor-Bull asked:
Spent 2 rainy days by the ocean, tucked up on the couch by the fire reading Farundell. I was intrigued, touched, entertained and totally immersed in a web of “reality”. What a talented, multi-dimensional being you are! I look forward to your next book with a smile on my face. Warm regards, Laurie Kaldor-Bull
l.r.fredericks answered:
Thank you so much, Laurie! I really appreciate hearing this – that total immersion you describe is what I love best in novels, and absolutely what I set out to create for readers.
user asked:
How much research did you do? Were people really like that back in the twenties?
l.r.fredericks answered:
Oh my yes, indeed they were. I did quite a lot of research, and a few of my favourite sources are listed in the back of the book. Certain attitudes and behaviours that we find very contemporary – such as a tolerance of homosexuality and pre-marital sex, drug-taking and general anti-establishmentarianism (!) – were common among the upper classes, particularly where they merged with “Bohemian” culture, although the vast majority of people of that era were horrified by such things, denied them and, when that failed, tried forcefully to stamp them out.
user asked:
Is Farundell a real place, or perhaps inspired by one?
l.r.fredericks answered:
As far as I know, it is entirely a product of my imagination, though, particularly when I was writing the book, I caught myself believing it did exist, and fantasized about going for drives through the back roads of Oxfordshire on long summer evenings (in my classic Alvis, of course – this is my fantasy after all!) and coming upon those gates, still a bit rusted, still wedged open by a rampant honeysuckle, that vista down the lane, lined with ancient oaks … I would be surprised, or perhaps not, but certainly filled with wonder; I would turn into the drive and ….
user asked:
How long did it take to write Farundell?
l.r.fredericks answered:
About six months of research and thinking, followed by three years of writing. It was my first novel and I didn’t really know what I was doing, so I spent a lot of time chasing wild hares and red herrings. I’m a lot more focused now, and Fate, my second novel, has been progressing much more smoothly.
user asked:
Are some of the characters in Farundell based on real people?
l.r.fredericks answered:
Yes. Jarlath Quinn is a cross between Aleister Crowley and Augustus John, exact contemporaries. And some characters ARE real people: Miss Firth later became well-known as Dion Fortune and her interlocutor Mr J.W. Dunne was an aircraft designer and the author of books about the nature of reality and time: An Experiment With Time, The Serial Universe. As far as I know they never met, though I like to think they’d have had interesting conversations.
user asked:
Why did you set Farundell in 1924? It seems like the story could be set at any time.
l.r.fredericks answered:
In some ways I suppose it could, but the period just after the First World War is particularly appropriate for several reasons. The war itself provides the background of literal dismemberment (especially as witnessed by a medic) that provides a visceral set of images to correspond with Paul’s personal disintegration and the mythic dismemberment of Osiris. And I found it useful to show a contrast – and, indeed, a conflict – between the liberated world of the Bohemians (Jarlath, Maggie et al.) and the still straight-laced world of tradition and convention (Richard and Cecily). And then there is the music, and movies, and the clothes, and the cars…
What are themes in the book of Luce
The nature of reality, human nature, the meaning of transcendence, the pursuit of the unattainable, the yearning for union.
Dear L.R. Fredericks,
I haven’t been able to think clearly since finishing Farundell. I came across it after searching for avant-garde fantasy books, and while most novels I was recommended disappointed, your book was truly a warm, inviting surprise. I have found myself heartbroken over the ending, especially while being mesmerized by the Damory family and their wondrous estate. I have to ask – was it always your plan for Paul and Sylvie’s story to end that way? Or did you come to that realization after you began developing the characters?
Thank you!
Iri.
Hello,
I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed Farundell. It was my first novel, and I actually don’t remember all that much about the details of its development. It took 5 years to write. I hope you’ll check out my other novels, Fate and The Book of Luce, which, although completely free-standing, do share a few of the characters and themes of Farundell. All good wishes to you!
I just have finished Farundell, which has upset my bearings, I’ve spent the day in a daze. Troubled as I am by our dreadful president and the Pandemic, this book put me in such a different world — mindful in a way of Tom Stoppard’s Arcadia– and I’m having a hard time coming back to this time, this reality. So tell me, why are there no more books, other than Fate, or this family, as promised? I want, no, need more of Alice, who I loved so thoroughly, as I love Flavia! Please, write more if you can; you’re depriving us of your great gift. And if not, thanks for Farundell, the standalone gem that it is!
Wholeheartedly,
Miriam
Hello Miriam, Thanks so much for the kind words. It means a lot to me to hear from readers, and your appreciation really helps. There is one more book, The Book of Luce, that I think you’ll enjoy, as Alice is in it too, though you may not recognise her at first. It’s available from Amazon, and can be ordered from independent bookshops, too. I’m working on a fourth book now, so stay tuned. All the very best to you!
Dear L.R Fredericks,
2-3 years ago I set out to find a very specific type of novel. I had never heard of you or any of your wonderful books, but when I found Farundell tucked away on a shelf in a secondhand store I immediately knew it was what I was looking for.
Since that time I have kept Farundell by my bedside— reading, rereading and skimming through my favourite parts whenever that specific need arises once again and I feel lonely for your characters. It has the ability to make me laugh, cry, and long for something that I don’t think I’ll ever quite be able to pinpoint. Last summer I ordered Fate, and by your suggestion: John Crowley’s Little, Big. I’ve loved reading both, but nothing will ever touch me in just the way Farundell does. It’s my favourite book of all time, I think! Thank you so very much for your beautiful writing. Any tips on writing a novel as captivating as yours? (You’ve inspired me!!)
This month I’m travelling to England for the first time in my life, and you can be sure I’ll be visiting Oxfordshire in search of the magical, beloved Farundell— all the while remaining ever vigilant for perhaps a glimpse of Francis?!
~ your most captivated reader,
Christina E. B.
I don’t have a question. I just want to tell you how incredible The Book of Luce is. I cant stop thinking about it. I so want it all to be real. Maybe not the “Demons”, but you have to take good with the bad I guess. I have read the previous 2 books also, and whilst they are always in my list of “top reads”, Luce is something else entirely. It’s amazing. Thank you so much for writing it. I will treasure it always.
Thanks so much! It means a lot to me to know my work touches people, is valued and enjoyed.
Dear LR, thank you enthralling me with your three books. I am (deliberately?) reading them in the “wrong” order – starting with the psychedelic Luce (so many memories of my 1960s youth – whoever that was!) which I found a wonderful evocation of those somewhat liminal times. Have just finished the gloriously poetic Farundell, and have persuaded myself that I AM allowed to read Fate now and don’t have to save it up.
SO… a question… were these three books already formed as a Trilogy when you started writing or did they evolve?
Hello Mark,
It’s lovely to hear from appreciative readers, and I’m sorry it’s taken so long to get back to you – the website was supposed to notify me when people posted, but didn’t. You left a very nice review on Amazon, didn’t you? Thank you for that – it’s really useful.
There’s no right or wrong order in which to read the books – I worked very hard to make sure that each stands alone – yet obviously they enhance each other as you re-encounter characters either before or after you first met them. And I never intended a trilogy – it’s just that I’ve written three novels so far. I’ve always had others in mind, dealing with the same people, places and themes, slotting in between the present three, but also set long before or long after. For example, in the Nazi era, dealing with eugenics and Luce’s conception and birth. Also, a sci-fi novel, set thousands of years in the future when Lucianity is a galactic religion.
I imagine you’ve read Fate by now … and perhaps started rereading!
Once again, thanks for your kind words, and the very gratifying sense you’ve given me that you really ‘get’ my work!
I heard your interview on druidcast. Great interview!!! I bought and just started Farundell. I am looking forward to the adventure.
~Wallace Robinson
Thanks, that was a fun interview with Philip! I hope you enjoy my books.
Dear L. R., I’m Alessandra from Italy and I’m a great fan of yours!! I love your novels, I think they are simply beautiful!! I liked them very much!! Could you kindly suggest me some contemporary Gothic novels similar to yours?? Could you suggest me some titles?? You know, I love Gothic fiction and the Victorian period too!!
Please let me know something because I’m so curious about your suggestions!! Please don’t forget about me!!
Thanks for all, bye, Alessandra
Hello Alessandra,
I’m so glad you like my work! Just off the top of my head I could suggest, among recent books, Susannah Clarke’s Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell, Sarah Waters’ The Little Stranger and Affinity, Angela Carter’s The Magic Toyshop and of course (as mentioned in Farundell) John Crowley’s stupendous Little, Big. Happy reading!
I fell in love with Fate and am currently reading Farundell. I came to the website to find out if I could look forward to reading anything else by you. I was thrilled to read that there will be another book soon! Best Christmas gift I could have asked for! No questions, just wanted to let you know that a uni student in northern Canada is spending her downtime (and some study time) absorbed in the world you’ve so eloquently created. Thank you!
Dear Brittany,
I’m so pleased you’re enjoying my work! I love writing, and always hope to make a great connection with my readers. Yes, another one is in the works! It will be called The Book of Luce and, after a lot of delays, is now scheduled for publication in March, 2017.
Dear L.R. Fredericks,
I have finished reading the splendid “Fate” a few days ago and I was completely charmed and enticed by its plot and its characters. I miss it terribly; I feel like something’s amiss now that Lord Francis is not around any more, and I have a thousand questions still itching to be answered.
I have not yet read “Farundell” (though I shall, and very soon, as I’m particularly looking forward to meeting my dear friend Francis again), and I know you are writing “A book of Luce”, but I wanted to ask you if you ever plan to delve deeper into Tobias’s story. It would be extremely interesting and inspiring to learn how Tobias himself discovered the existence of the Stone, how it came into his possession and how his equally triumphant approach to its finding faded into despair at him having to abandon his ailing children behind. And, of course, what happened of him.
Thank you for taking your time to answer.
Hello Riccardo, Thanks so much for your kind response, I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed Fate! I must admit to feeling much the same sense of loss when I finished writing it. Francis appears briefly in The Book of Luce, (as does Tobias!) which is set in contemporary times, and will also figure prominently in at least one other planned book, which will be set in the 1930’s. And yes, I do have in mind to tell Tobias’s story as well. All the very best to you, and I hope you enjoy Farundell!
I have read both books twice – hate coming to the end of them- life is not the same without being able to look forward to reading them in bed. Please when is the next one? It looks like I might have to have a 3rd reading of them. They are wonderful – in the full meaning of the word. Thank you.
Hello Meg, thank you for your kind comments! The Book of Luce is due out next year — I’m still writing it now. If you happen to have the paperback edition of Fate, the first chapter is in the back….
I’ve read Farundell and also Fate which I just loved. It really described Lord Francis life well, especially when he tried to strangle his father. Shame so many of the women he had relationships died. Sorry no questions.
Hi Naomi,
Thanks for the comments! It was difficult killing off so many people of whom, in many cases, I’d grown quite fond. But in the 18th century people very often died young, and Francis’s friends and lovers end up doing far better than the average.
I’ve just finished reading “Farundell” which I really enjoyed. I loved Alice but I wasn’t so keen on the character of Sylvie. I thought she was a “cockteaser” but Paul didn’t seem to be aware of that. I also loved the “magic” in the story. No questions – just comments.
Hi Naomi, so good to hear that you’ve enjoyed Farundell. Not everyone likes smart-ass Alice, but I’m glad you do! And Sylvie can’t really be described as a cockteaser because it’s not a tease – she genuinely wants sex and has it whenever possible! But she’d quite annoying in plenty of other ways. Fate, my second novel, is out in paperback in a couple of weeks (hardback and kindle now) – it’s Francis Damory’s story, which you might enjoy as well. Thanks for the comment, and all good wishes to you.
Of course! Like the Astors and the Churchills, American women who transformed the lavatorial experience of the English (maybe British) ruling class. I meant definition 1) pertaining to washing, but come to think of it… No wonder their, and the Damorys’ house parties were so popular. Elsewhere, despite the ranks of servants, it must have been draughty and uninviting. I did not doubt that you had done the research. It is integral, intrinsic, not obtrusive. In short, impressive because apparently effortless. Yes, a compliment. Wasn’t attempting to catch you out – no contest there. How do you do your bibliomancy, on this site, I wonder? The process, I mean. Like Paul’s with the camera and the book? An autograph camera – ah, I want one.
How come Farundell has so many bathrooms? In the 19 teens/20s in Britain? No, couldn’t be. Would they say WC? or lavatory? I know not. Farundell charms me. Would you like to be entertained also?
Ha! I love it when readers try to catch me out in historical errors, but I have done my research! Percy married a very rich American (Odelia) and she (like other American heiresses who married into the English aristocracy) updated the plumbing. The terms WC and lavatory were both used — all the language I used was carefully researched in contemporary sources as well, of course, as the OED
Dear R.L. Fredericks, I am getting to the end of Fate, it’s been four days of reading to fantasy and dream. I loved Farundell too. I want to ask you, how I can study further on Hermetism? Thank you for your time.
Hi Elena, I’m so pleased you’re interested in the Hermetic tradition. First, check out the Wikipedia articles on “The Hermetica” and related topics; they may well lead you to other sources. I can also recommend Freke and Gandy’s book, called The Hermetica, Lost Wisdom of the Pharaohs. Brian Copenhaver’s book is more scholarly, burt very good. Some of these are mentioned in the Notes section of Farundell, in the back, and also in the “Library” on my website. All best!
Dear L.R. Fredericks, how can I address a genius, for that is what you are : genius.
I am on page 340 of Fate and what I was wondering about is why it looks like the women in your book are described as objects where the men are more of subjects?
The speed of action takes the breath away, which in this case is rather a good thing.
I love the way in which you just very lightly touch on the Mysteries, while being completely amids of them.
I can only say : well done, very well done.
Thanks for your comments! All I can say in reply to the question is that it certainly
doesn’t seem that way to me. The women feel equally real to me, but
of course the story is narrated by a man, an 18th c. man at that,
and reflects his perspective.
Just read Fate for review. It is so fabulous that for once I am wondering how to describe it-how would you describe your novel. It is historical fiction but it is so much more. Simply I love it.
What a lovely response, thank you so much! But what a tough question. Fate, the characters, the story, the places, the clothes and the music … the whole life of the Eighteenth century so consumed me for the two years that I worked on the novel — I really don’t think I have the “critical distance” needed to describe the whole thing. I do certainly intend it to be “more than” an historical novel in that I always want to deal with themes that transcend particular epochs or, for that matter, genres. My first novel, Farundell, was an attempt to transcend the country house genre; my third, on which I’m working now, will be my take on the espionage thriller, set in the early 1930’s and dealing, like Fate, with the perfectability, or not, of Man. I am sorry not to be more helpful…if you’d like to lob some slightly more specific questions at me, I’d be happy to try to answer them.
What drew you to hermeticism as a thematic element in your books? I was also wondering about Paul’s aphoristic photographs (for lack of better terminology) and your background as a visual artist — are they based on your own work? If not, have you considered creating them? I’m doing a PhD on early modern alchemy and cannot imagine a more appropriate way to circumvent writer’s blocks and researcher’s ruts! Best wishes for Fate’s speedy publication, positive reviews and a wide audience. Can’t wait to read it.
Hi Sienna,
I’ve been a student of hermeticism for many, many years. I guess you could say I’m just so steeped in it that it comes out in everything I do. I’d originally subtitled Farundell “An Hermetic Novel” but my publishers – very rightly – suggested I drop it. It’s a bit affected, perhaps?!! The next one, Fate, also has an invisible subtitle – its “A Rosicrucian Tale,” after Bulwer-Lytton’s Zanoni. As a student of alchemy you’ll really enjoy Fate, as it’s about … alchemy.
Paul’s bibliomancy and chaos-tarot are also partly inspired by cut-up texts, such as William Burroughs did, and David Bowie in tribute to Burroughs. I would adore to do some photos like Paul’s. The actual Kodak camera he used (of which I obtained, on ebay, a non-working example) has just a tiny box for words – I exaggerated a bit to fit in the words I wanted. But I do have a sort of project in mind combining video, music (at which I also dabble) and written words. Stay tuned!
Hi there,
in the back of the book you mention your good friends Philip and Stephanie Carr-Gomm. I was just wondering if you have studied/been influenced by much of Druidry?
Only on chapter 4 but very much enjoying your book – I haven’t a clue how it will develop and I like that a lot. I’m finding it’s one of those books which creates an atmosphere which stays with you somewhat even when you are not actually reading it…
Best wishes,
Paul
Hi Paul,
So glad you’re enjoying the book. And a good question! I’ve been drawn mainly to the Hermetic side of the Western Magical Tradition, but there’s a lot about druidry that I find very appealing. Philip and Stephanie’s order, OBOD, is an excellent organisation with a very good teaching programme and although I don’t consider myself a “druid” – I eschew labels as much as possible – I have very much enjoyed working with some of them!
Spent 2 rainy days by the ocean, tucked up on the couch by the fire reading Farundell. I was intrigued, touched, entertained and totally immersed in a web of “reality”. What a talented, multi-dimensional being you are! I look forward to your next book with a smile on my face. Warm regards, Laurie Kaldor-Bull
Thank you so much, Laurie! I really appreciate hearing this – that total immersion you describe is what I love best in novels, and absolutely what I set out to create for readers.
How much research did you do? Were people really like that back in the twenties?
Oh my yes, indeed they were. I did quite a lot of research, and a few of my favourite sources are listed in the back of the book. Certain attitudes and behaviours that we find very contemporary – such as a tolerance of homosexuality and pre-marital sex, drug-taking and general anti-establishmentarianism (!) – were common among the upper classes, particularly where they merged with “Bohemian” culture, although the vast majority of people of that era were horrified by such things, denied them and, when that failed, tried forcefully to stamp them out.
Is Farundell a real place, or perhaps inspired by one?
As far as I know, it is entirely a product of my imagination, though, particularly when I was writing the book, I caught myself believing it did exist, and fantasized about going for drives through the back roads of Oxfordshire on long summer evenings (in my classic Alvis, of course – this is my fantasy after all!) and coming upon those gates, still a bit rusted, still wedged open by a rampant honeysuckle, that vista down the lane, lined with ancient oaks … I would be surprised, or perhaps not, but certainly filled with wonder; I would turn into the drive and ….
How long did it take to write Farundell?
About six months of research and thinking, followed by three years of writing. It was my first novel and I didn’t really know what I was doing, so I spent a lot of time chasing wild hares and red herrings. I’m a lot more focused now, and Fate, my second novel, has been progressing much more smoothly.
Are some of the characters in Farundell based on real people?
Yes. Jarlath Quinn is a cross between Aleister Crowley and Augustus John, exact contemporaries. And some characters ARE real people: Miss Firth later became well-known as Dion Fortune and her interlocutor Mr J.W. Dunne was an aircraft designer and the author of books about the nature of reality and time: An Experiment With Time, The Serial Universe. As far as I know they never met, though I like to think they’d have had interesting conversations.
Why did you set Farundell in 1924? It seems like the story could be set at any time.
In some ways I suppose it could, but the period just after the First World War is particularly appropriate for several reasons. The war itself provides the background of literal dismemberment (especially as witnessed by a medic) that provides a visceral set of images to correspond with Paul’s personal disintegration and the mythic dismemberment of Osiris. And I found it useful to show a contrast – and, indeed, a conflict – between the liberated world of the Bohemians (Jarlath, Maggie et al.) and the still straight-laced world of tradition and convention (Richard and Cecily). And then there is the music, and movies, and the clothes, and the cars…