C A Loake
Charlotte has always been captivated by history, a passion sparked by the stories her grandmother shared during her childhood. One tale, in particular, left a lasting impression—a haunting family legend about an ancestor from the eighteenth century. This ancestor lived in a house perched on a cliff with her merchant sailor husband, only to witness his ship meet a tragic end on the stormy rocks below. The question of what became of the widow—whether she succumbed to grief or rose above tragedy to find adventure and purpose—became the inspiration for Lucille, the resilient heroine of Silk and Steel: The Smuggler’s Aristocrat.
Writing Silk and Steel was an adventure for Charlotte, who immersed herself in the intrigue and romance of the 18th century. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, she brought to life a world of smugglers, aristocrats, and enduring love—a world she hopes readers find as captivating as she does.
Under the pen name Lottie Loake, she has also created enchanting children’s books, including Archie and the Chickens and Archie and the Paints. These charming stories, inspired by the antics of her Bengal cats, playful Labrador, and mischievous garden chickens, were lovingly written and illustrated for her three grandchildren.
When not crafting tales of historical intrigue or whimsical adventures for children, Charlotte can often be found exploring the rolling hills of the Wiltshire countryside with her loyal Labrador. She is also deeply engaged in a real-life project: renovating a centuries-old manor house in the picturesque Sarthe Valley of France with her husband. These rich experiences—whether exploring nature or restoring a piece of history—infuse her imagination and inspire the vibrant worlds she brings to life on the page.
Charlotte has always been captivated by history, a passion sparked by the stories her grandmother shared during her childhood. One tale, in particular, left a lasting impression—a haunting family legend about an ancestor from the eighteenth century. This ancestor lived in a house perched on a cliff with her merchant sailor husband, only to witness his ship meet a tragic end on the stormy rocks below. The question of what became of the widow—...
Silk and Steel
In 1763, Lucille marries Henry, a charming merchant captain, and begins a seemingly blissful life filled with painting and social gatherings. However, beneath the tranquillity of their marriage lies a web of secrets. Five years later, Henry’s erratic behaviour ends in his sudden death at sea, shattering Lucille’s world.
When she overhears a...