Meet the Characters - An Interview with the 12th Earl of Claverlock from “If Wishes Were Earls” by Luanna Stewart

Today we’re talking to Edward Penhallion, the 12^th Earl of Claverlock, from the historical romance, “If Wishes Were Earls,” by Luanna Stewart.

What is your relationship status?

I’m thrice widowed. Some busybodies in the neighbourhood are whispering that I’m cursed. Perhaps I am. Or perhaps I’m an idiot where women are concerned.

What is people’s first impression of you?

I’m sure they find me dour, disagreeable, and something of a hermit. For the most part they are correct. Few things amuse me, and I’m happiest left alone with my books.

Name three things that tick you off.

Rude people, interfering people, and willfully ignorant people. In short, most people of my acquaintance.

What would you like it to say on your tombstone?

If the choice were up to me I’d have inscribed “Dead as a doornail.” As I’m sure you know, that is a phrase from Shakespeare’s Henry VI, Part II. Unfortunately I’ll be departed from this world and unable to voice my preference. My heirs will no doubt choose something salubrious and maudlin, like “And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.” Or, god help me, “Tears water our growth.” I’m confident there will be no tears shed at my funeral.

Now on to something lighter, what is your favourite drink?

Whisky and soda. Some days call for more of the former and less of the latter.

What is your favourite food?

I don’t have one but the day must start with coffee. Hot and strong. I’ve heard whispers amongst the servants that I’m a bear without my coffee. They’re not far wrong.

What would you most like to forget?

The past year and the disastrous marriage I contracted. I have few regrets but marrying Catherine is an enormous one. I’m doing my best to avoid contact with any and all eligible females because any relationship will just become a major cock-up.

Do you care about what others assume about you?

I don’t give a rat’s ass what others think of me. Most people of my acquaintance are small-minded idiots.

What is your most prized possession?

My house and all its memories and responsibilities. This land has been under my family’s stewardship for centuries and I’m determined to leave it better than I found it. Only one wing of the house is original – a fire took a good portion of the manor in the 1600’s. My grandfather built the back wing that houses the library. My father installed modern plumbing. I’ll be making improvements to the kitchens, otherwise I’ll have to endure continued sniping from Sinjun, my butler.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

I’m a morning person otherwise I feel as though I’ve wasted half the day. There are fewer dark corners in which to hide secrets or misdeeds during the daylight hours.

IF WISHES WERE EARLS is available through:

Amazon

Nook

Kobo

iBooks