The Aspirin of the Regency

Highlighting Historical Romance with Pamela Gibson who shares thoughts about laudanum. Laudanum has been called the aspirin of the Regency period. It was available without a prescription from apothecaries, pubs, and other places of business. Made of opium alkaloids including morphine and codeine, it came in various strengths and forms, usually as a tincture mixed […]

Life in Old California

Highlighting Historical with Pamela Gibson who reflects on life in old California. In my book, Return of the Fox, set in pre-gold rush California, the first few chapters take place during the festivities associated with a wedding. In Alta California’s rancho days, weddings of the upper classes—always Catholic—were followed by many outdoor activities including barbecues, […]

Eye Care in the 19th Century

Highlighting Historical Romance with Pamela Gibson on eye care in the Regency era While researching ophthalmology in the Regency period for Scandal’s Child, I discovered a medical practice in its infancy. A relatively unknown science at the beginning of the 19th century, the field was rife with quacks and charlatans. Much changed with the end […]