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Free ‘The Alchemist of Paris’ coloring pages
If you feel like some restful relaxation time, try out these two free Alchemist of Paris coloring pages. Follow the meandering vines as you weave your way through a Parisian garden and find some clues to the story as you go! The pages can be printed out for use with your favourite colored pencils or…
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Flashback – A never published scene from The Alchemist of Paris
When I was sorting through my papers, I found this scene from an early draft of The Alchemist of Paris. Young housemaid Elise and her mysterious master are walking through the pre-dawn streets of 19th century Paris. Although there are familiar points, this scene has an alternative plot line. Can you spot three changes from…
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Quiet Rome – 5 Special Places in the Eternal City
Rome has been a destination for visitors for centuries, but in the midst of all the glamour and bustle, it is possible to find quiet spots where the mind can wander. Palazzo Spada While many tourists visit the colourful Campo del Fiori fresh food markets, just around the corner is the Palazzo Spada. Stepping into…
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Map Monday – Ancient Egypt
“In Egypt, I met a man who called himself Albert Price. And that man has intrigued me ever since.” – Jean-Louis Champillon reflects on past journeys in ‘The Alchemist of Paris’ The book in the picture above was published in 1888. It was found in a book sale in a barn many years…
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Leaving Paris
Paris had never looked more beautiful than on that last run through the city. I had forgotten the squalor and smells of the narrow streets now and saw only the grandeur of the rooftops against the sky. Gerard guided me out of Le Marais and along the broad boulevards near the Louvre Palace. We ran…
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Inspirations – Mystery and Travel: Death on the Nile novel (1937) and movie (1978)
This post is part of the Little Bits of Classics & Christina Wehner Agatha Christie Blogathon which celebrates the 126th anniversary of the birth of Agatha Christie. With 85 novels written and between 2 billion – 4 billion copies sold, Agatha Christie was one of the most successful and prolific writers of the twentieth century. If…
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Leaving home
At twilight I slipped out of the convent and into the herb garden. Unlocking the gate, I strolled under the old stone arch to the fields beyond. The sky was blue violet, and a golden moon was rising over the hills. The air was sweet with the scent of the rustling grasses. Wildflowers, some blooming…