Rising from the ashes of the final episode of the beloved “Downton Abbey,” Julian Fellowes, marketing genius creator of Downton, Gosford Park, and just about all much-adored historical soap operas, has a new project! I, for one, am still in mourning over the end of Downton, daydreaming about the end of all the characters on the show, such as the name of “Anner” and Mr. Bates’ baby and whether or not Molesly and Baxter finally hook up.
But fear not, fellow mourners! Belgravia has appeared, and it’s a SERIAL. Fellowes has designed a literary serial online, set in 1815 on the eve of the Battle of Waterloo. From the description on the Web site, there is much betrayal, gossip, affairs won and lost — all the dramatic frenzy one should expect from Julian Fellowes. The novel will be released as eleven “episodes,” sent straight to your favorite device. The first episode, the one that most likely will hook you like crack, is free. Move over, Chuck Dickens, it’s time to party like it’s 1861.
To add to the temptation, there is an app, some online maps, and a family tree (which only fills in as you meet the characters, so no spoilers given). I’m hoping Belgravia may be the light at the Downton terminus. I imagine Fellowes whispering, “Shhh, do not weep. There is more to come.”
I’m on board. I’ve subscribed to read the first episode, but haven’t fully committed to the $14 for all eleven. I’m reservedly optimistic. Great expectations, indeed.
flyleafunfurleddotcom 
It seems we English-speaking peoples can’t get enough of the old times. While we’re on the subject of serials and historicals, may I recommend for your consideration “Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell”, which is both a huge (1000-page) novel (with lots of tongue-in-cheek old-English-novel devices) and a BBC mini-series, due to launch on this side of the pond on June 13th, I believe. My daughter made me a gift of this daunting-looking book, and I’m relishing it. To add to the fun, it’s all about magic.
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I haven’t read Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell yet! I’ve kind of been afraid of it . . . It’s daunting! But if you are into it, I’ll check it out!
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