Last week, Christmas came to Marionneaux, Louisiana in Punch’s Cousin. Mr. Punch and his friends had the chance to take a few moments away from their drama and strife to enjoy a peaceful Christmas morning together—giving gifts and solidifying their bonds. However, not everyone in that wicked little town was making merry. Marjani was in turmoil as she watched her daughter and son-in-law continue to suffer from The Yellow Fever. And, of course, the last thing on Barbara’s mind was “peace on Earth” as she set about stealing from Cecil and Adrienne and trying to make her way to Iolanthe Evangeline’s New Orleans Bawdy House. Under the thrall of Ulrika Rittenhouse, the nanny set about an evil plan to make it appear that Julian was going to take his own life. Ulrika’s treachery didn’t end there. She’s been scheming to get Arthur all to herself as well as keep the stolen blue diamond. The Christmas joy was cut short as Agnes Rittenhouse crept into the Halifax House and Mr. Punch was startled by the unexpected arrival of Iolanthe Evangeline and her cruel greeting.
This week, we will discover just how Mr. Punch will react to Iolanthe’s arrival. Meanwhile, the well-to-do of Marionneaux journey to New Orleans for Edward Cage’s annual Masquerade Ball. At that ill-fated fete, powerful forces will collide and perhaps unite as Ulrika and Iolanthe clash for domination and Barbara Allen makes a startling confession. Meanwhile, a visitor from England will threaten Julian’s sanity. Will Mr. Punch have to take permanent control of his master’s body? As Robert’s plan to expose the people who have tried to oppress them comes to a head, a group of Marionneaux residents finds unexpected freedom and faces a challenge for which they’re ill-prepared.
As Punch’s Cousin reaches its one hundredth chapter, I’ll also post a recap of the events that have led us up to this point. For those of you new to the story, all of the previous chapters have been archived. I appreciate your support and kind words. I promise you won’t be disappointed as Punch’s Cousin continues.
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