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A Bookchat about The Lady with the Dark Hairwith Erin Bartels 

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About the author

ERIN BARTELS writes character-driven fiction for curious people. Her readers know to expect that each of her novels will tell a unique story about fallible characters so tangible that it’s hard to believe they are not real people. Whether urban, rural, or somewhere in between, her settings come alive with carefully crafted details that engage all the senses and transport the reader to a singular time and place. And her themes of reckoning with the past, improving the present, and looking with hope to the future leave her readers with a sense of peace and possibility.

Author questions

  1. After all those years in the big city, what’s your favorite thing about living in a small town, and is there anything you miss?
  2. Other than reading, what are some of your hobbies and favorite ways to relax?
  3. What is the thing you collect, and what’s the story behind it? (Like some people collect teacups, or some people collect anything with a turtle on it, or things like that.)
  4. Is there anything especially interesting that you haven’t covered in other interviews that you could share with us or perhaps there is something God has laid on your heart that you would like to share with your readers? 

About the book The Lady with the Dark Hair.

A charismatic man with a legacy that long outlives him. A forgotten woman whose fate is forever tied to his. And the family whose history is still being written.

Toulouse, France—1879

Catalan orphan-turned-fugitive Viviana Torrens has found sanctuary serving in the home of an aging artist in Southern France. It is in his studio that she meets Francisco Vella, a Gibraltarian merchant who sells artists’ pigments. When her past catches up to her, she is compelled to pose as Vella’s sister and join him on his travels or be deported back to Spain to stand trial. Along the way she will discover that the many parts she has been playing in order to hide her identity have far-reaching implications she never could have foreseen.

East Lansing, Michigan—Present Day

Esther Markstrom and her artist mother have always been proud of their ancestor, painter Francisco Vella. They even run a small museum and gallery dedicated to raising awareness of his scandalously underappreciated work. But when Esther reconnects with her former art history professor, she finds her once-solid family history on shaky ground as questions arise about Vella’s greatest work—a portrait entitled The Lady with the Dark Hair.

This dual-timeline story takes you on a captivating journey across time and continents, where past and present converge in a relentless search for truth, identity, and the freedom to follow one’s dreams.

This time period is interesting–Victorian years, but not set in England–and I love the premise of exploring the world of art in the 1800s. And way to plunge us into some deep themes and dangerous intrigue!

  1. Viviana is the heroine of the historical timeline, but the blurb doesn’t tell us overmuch about who she is. What else can you share about her? (Without giving too much away, of course.)
  2. The cool thing about split-time fiction is how directly it explores the way the past touches us today. Why is reckoning with the past an important theme for you personally to weave into your stories?
  3. Did you learn anything surprising about nineteenth century France or Spain while you were researching for the historical timeline?
  4. What’s next for your writing?

Connect with  Erin Bartels: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about Set In Stone with Kimberley Woodhouse

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Kimberley Woodhouse joins us for a chat about the Bone Wars, crafting, music, and her latest release Set In Stone. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book! 

About the author

Kimberley Woodhouse is an award-winning, bestselling author of more than forty fiction and nonfiction books. She has won The Carol Award, The Reader’s Choice Award, The Holt Medallion, and has finaled in the Selah Awards and the Spur Awards. She is passionate about Bible study, reading, music, cooking, and pretty-much-all-things-crafty. Kim and her incredible husband of thirty-plus years live in Colorado, where they play golf together, spend time with their kids and grandbaby, and research all the history around them.

Author questions

  1. What crafty project have you been into lately?
  2. Your website mentions that you are a third-generation Liszt student. Obviously, you are a lover of music, so why the composer Franz Liszt in particular?
  3. As a reader, what is one of your favorite tropes? Least favorite?
  4. Is there anything especially interesting that you haven’t covered in other interviews that you could share with us or perhaps there is something God has laid on your heart that you would like to share with your readers? 

About the book

A dangerous scheme could bury their long-held dreams forever. . . .

From the time she was little, Martha Jankowski has been digging in the dirt, much to the dismay of her mother. Now she dreams of being a paleontologist and is determined to make her parents proud by uncovering the next big discovery. When Martha finds what she hopes to be a fully intact dinosaur skeleton–one that could win her an acclaimed exhibit–she learns another team is competing against her and could steal her chance at being recognized for this momentous discovery.

Paleontology student Jacob Duncan has fulfilled his dream of digging for dinosaur bones at last. In a race against time, he and his team are bent on unearthing a complete skeleton to claim a museum exhibit with their names on it. But when Jacob meets their charming competitor Martha and uncovers foul play within his team, love and danger grow hand in hand until a menacing ruse threatens to destroy it all.

Book questions

  1. This is the second book you’ve written set during the Bone Wars of the late 1800s. Could you tell us a little more about this specific piece of history?
  2. Working in paleontology as a woman is still a challenge, let alone in the 1800’s. Can you tell us more about Martha and what drives her in such a male-dominated field? 
  3. The blurb doesn’t tell us much about Jacob except he’s still a student in his field. Who is he personally?
  4. What’s next for your writing?

Connect with Kimberley Woodhouse at her website, newsletter, YouTube, BookBub, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about A Love Discovered with Tracie Peterson

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Tracie Peterson joins us for a chat about leaving a legacy, Cheyenne history, a fun day in her life, and her latest release A Love Discovered. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book! 

About the author

Tracie Peterson gave her life to Jesus at the age of six. Tracie knew at an early age that God was calling her to ministry, and writing for Him has allowed her to offer the Gospel message and encourage people to hope in the Lord.

Her motto in writing, as well as all other aspects of life is Soli Deo Gloria—For God Alone the Glory. Often called the “Queen of Historical Christian Fiction,” Tracie Peterson is an ECPA, CBA and USA Today best-selling author of more than 110 books, most of those historical.

Author questions

This is the third time you have been on the show, and it is always such a joy. Your writing career is highlighted by books that minster and your willingness to mentor other writers.

  1. Your motto for life is For God Alone the Glory. What kind of legacy do you hope to build in the Christian book industry? 
  2. What does a fun day look like to you?
  3. With all the historical novels you’ve written, you’ve likely done a lot of research. What is something that was most fascinating or shocking to you?
  4. Is there anything especially interesting that you haven’t covered in other interviews that you could share with us or perhaps there is something God has laid on your heart that you would like to share with your readers? 

About the book A Love Discovered.

Invited by a friend to trek west and help establish the newly formed town of Cheyenne, Edward Vogel is prepared to leave the haunting memories of his wife and son’s deaths behind him. The only problem is the corrupt new railroad town wants family men who can establish law and order, and desperation leads Edward to his friend Marybeth with a proposition of marriage.

After her father’s death leaves her with no means of support, Marybeth Kruger is in danger of having her two-year-old half sister taken from her. So when Edward Vogel, the widower husband of her late best friend, offers her a marriage of convenience to escape both their troubles, she has no choice but to accept.

Life in Cheyenne is fraught with danger, but will this arrangement be enough to save Edward and Marybeth from the pasts they tried to escape? Or will life with each other put them—and their hearts—-in more danger than ever?

Book questions

  1. What about such an arrangement is different than the popular love of first sight we often see in entertainment today?
  2. What kind of place was Cheyenne in the time period your story is set in?
  3. A Love Discovered is the first book in THE HEART OF CHEYENNE series. What is the connecting element for all of the books in this series?
  4. What’s next for your writing?

Connect with Tracie Peterson: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Goodreads, BookBub, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about The Rhythm of Fractured Grace with Amanda Wen

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Amanda Wen joins Darcy for a chat about music, history, family, and her latest release The Rhythm of Fractured Grace. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book! 

About the author

Amanda Wen’s novels have released to both reader and critical acclaim. Her second novel, The Songs That Could Have Been, won both the Selah and the Carol Awards, and her debut, Roots of Wood and Stone, was a finalist for the Christy Award. In addition to her writing, Amanda is an accomplished professional cellist and pianist who frequently performs with orchestras, chamber groups, and her church’s worship team, as well as serving as a choral accompanist. A lifelong denizen of the flatlands, Amanda currently lives in Kansas with her patient, loving, and hilarious husband, their three adorable Wenlets, and a snuggly Siamese cat.

Author questions

  1. You are a musician. What is your favorite song to play, and what is your favorite to listen to? 
  2. How does music play a part in your writing life?
  3. Is there a common theme you find evolving in the books you write?
  4. Is there anything especially interesting that you haven’t covered in other interviews that you could share with us or perhaps there is something God has laid on your heart that you would like to share with your readers? 

About the book The Rhythm of Fractured Grace

When a new customer brings a badly damaged violin into Siobhan Walsh’s shop, it is exactly the sort of challenge she craves. The man who brought it in is not. He’s too close to the painful past that left her heart and her faith in shambles.

Matt Buchanan has had a rough start as the new worship pastor. A car accident on his way into town left him with a nearly totaled truck, and an heirloom violin in pieces. When he takes it to a repair shop, he’s fascinated with the restoration process–and with the edgy, closed-off woman doing the work.

As their friendship deepens and turns into more, they both discover secrets that force them to face past wounds. And the history of the violin reveals more about their current problems than they could have ever expected.

On the nineteenth-century frontier, a gruesome tomahawk attack wiped out most of Deborah Caldwell’s family. Her greatest solace after the tragedy is the music from her father’s prized violin. Given her horrendous scars, she’d resigned herself to a spinster’s life. But Levi Martinson’s gentle love starts to chip away at her hardened heart, until devastating details about the attack are revealed, putting their love–and Deborah’s shaky faith–to the ultimate test.

Full of forgiveness and the message that no one is too damaged for God’s healing touch, the final book in the split-time Sedgwick County Chronicles will thrill fans of Rachel Hauck, Lisa Wingate, and Kristy Cambron.

Book questions

  1. The blurb says “nineteenth-century frontier” so can you share a little more about the time and place where Deborah lives?
  2. Just from the tiny bit the blurb shares, I think I’m gonna love Levi Martinson, but could you give us a more thorough introduction to him?
  3. It looks like Siobhan and Deborah have some similar lies weighing them down. How do their stories complement each other, even more than a hundred years apart?
  4. What’s next for your writing? Kayleighani shi 

Connect with Amanda Wen: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and BookBub.

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A Bookchat about A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure with Angela Bell

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Angela Bell joins KyLee and Darcy for a chat about her favorite characters in historical fiction, her dream to be a prima ballerina, The Nutcracker, and her latest release A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventures. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book! 

About the author

Angela Bell is a twenty-first-century lady with nineteenth-century sensibilities. She resides in Texas with her charming pup, Mr. Bingley Crosby. One might categorize her books as historical romance, but Angela likes to describe them as “a cuppa Victorian whimsy” because it sounds so much more poetical.

Whenever you need a respite from the modern-day hustle, you’re welcome to visit her parlor at AuthorAngelaBell.com, where she can be found waiting with a pot of tea and a great book.

Angela, welcome to the Historical Bookworm Show.

Some of you might not know, but even though this is Angela’s debut novel, she had been on the show before. That’s right. Angela is part of our Historical Bookworm Team, the only member who comes on the show to record her reviews!

Author questions

  1. Your bio describes you as a “twenty-first-century lady with nineteenth-century sensibilities.” Are there any traditionally historic practices or traditions that you enjoy on a regular basis?
  2. If you could step onto any book and visit with the characters for 30 minutes, which book and why?
  3. As a debut author, what advice can you give aspiring writers?
  4. Is there anything especially interesting that you haven’t covered in other interviews that you could share with us or perhaps there is something God has laid on your heart that you would like to share with your readers? 

About the book: A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure.

When Clara Marie Stanton’s ex-fiancé begins to spread rumors that her family suffers from hereditary insanity, it’s all Clara can do to protect them from his desperate schemes and society’s prejudice. Her family may be eccentric, yes, but they certainly aren’t insane. Then Clara’s Grandfather Drosselmeyer brings on an apprentice with a mechanical leg, and all pretense of normalcy takes wing. 

Theodore Kingsley, a shame-chased vagabond skilled in repairing clocks, wants a fresh start far from Kingsley Court and the disappointed father who declared him dead. Upon returning to England, Theodore meets clockmaker Drosselmeyer, who hires him as an apprentice, much to Clara’s dismay. When Drosselmeyer spontaneously disappears in his secret flying owl machine, he leaves behind a note for Clara, beseeching her to make her dreams of adventure a reality by joining him on a merry scavenger hunt. Together, Clara and Theodore set off to follow Drosselmeyer’s trail of clues, but they will have to stay one step ahead of a villain who wants the flying machine for himself–at any cost.

Book questions

  1. What drew you to write about Clara from The Nutcracker?
  2. When Drosselmeyer disappears, Clara must follow a scavenger hunt to find him. What inspired you to use a scavenger hunt?
  3. Theodore Kingsley is described as a vagabond, clock repairman who is running from a wealthy past. Can you tell us more about Theodore Kingsley?
  4. What’s next for your writing?

Connect with Angela Bell: Newsletter, Amazon, Pinterest, Facebook, Goodreads, BookBub, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about Embers in the London Sky with Sarah Sundin

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About the author

Since 2010, Sarah Sundin has transported readers back to World War II with her mesmerizing and historically accurate novels. In her newest narrative, Embers in the London Sky, Sundin explores the war through the eyes of a mother who has been separated from her beloved child and through a BBC correspondent who knows that reporting the truth will take him deep into the flames. Filled with raw emotion, Embers in the London Sky will captivate, entertain, and educate readers as they plunge into the gritty realities of war.

A mother of three adult children, Sarah lives in Southern California and teaches Sunday school and women’s Bible studies. She enjoys speaking to community, church, and writers’ groups, and she serves as co-director of the West Coast Christian Writers Conference.

Author questions

  1. With the holiday season just behind us as we record, what is the quintessential Christmas or New Year’s dish that must be on your table?
  2. We have a fan-submitted question! Of all the heroes you’ve written over your many books, who is your favorite and why?
  3. I love how your stories feature people from so many different backgrounds, Americans, Brits, Germans, and more. How do you approach writing main characters from cultures so different from yours?
  4. And another question from a fan: You’ve currently written two series following brothers, the Sunrise at Normandy series and the Wings of Glory series. Your Waves of Freedom series also features two brothers and a sister. Your brothers always have great dynamics, but you have yet to write a series featuring sisters. What do you think draws you to writing brothers, and do you think you’ll ever give us a sister series?

About the book: Embers in the London Sky

To find her child, she’ll stop at nothing. To report the truth will take him deep into the flames.

As she flees the German army invading the Netherlands in 1940, Aleida van der Zee Martens escapes to London to wait out the occupation. Separated from her three-year-old son, Theo, in the process, the young widow desperately searches for her little boy even as she works for an agency responsible for evacuating children to the countryside.

When German bombs set London ablaze, BBC radio correspondent Hugh Collingwood reports on the Blitz, eager to boost morale while walking the fine line between truth and censorship. But the Germans are not the only ones Londoners have to fear as a series of murders flame up amid the ashes.

The deaths hit close to home for Hugh, and Aleida needs his help to locate her missing son. As they work together, they grow closer and closer, both to each other and the answers they seek. But with bombs falling and continued killings, they may be running out of time.

As if the London Blitz isn’t enough challenge, let’s add a missing child and a murderer hiding behind the Nazis’ bombs! That’s enough intrigue and adventure to satisfy even me, and somewhere they squeeze in a romance as well. Sounds like a story to keep you up all night!

Book questions

  1. The blurb mentions Hugh’s challenge to report the truth without getting his work censored. What was censorship like in Britain at the time? Why did it exist and how did people respond?
  2. With Aleida widowed and focused on her child, I would imagine that places some obstacles to her romance with Hugh. What makes these two perfect for each other?
  3. I think one reason people are so fascinated with WWII is the vast scope means there is always something more to learn about it. You’ve spent quite a few years immersed in the European theater, though. Did you run across anything new while researching for this book? (Bonus points if it’s a tidbit that didn’t make it into the book, hehe.)
  4. What’s next for your writing?

Connect with Sarah Sundin: Newsletter, Amazon, BookBub, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Pinterest, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about The Seamstress of Acadie with Laura Frantz

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Laura Frantz is a Christy Award winner and the ECPA bestselling author of fifteen novels, including The Rose and the Thistle, The Frontiersman’s Daughter, Courting Morrow Little, The Lacemaker, and A Heart Adrift. She is the proud mom of an American soldier and a career firefighter. Though she will always call Kentucky home, Laura lives with her husband in Washington State.

Author questions

You live in Washington State which is known as the Evergreen State. Kentucky is known as the Bluegrass State.

  1. After living in these two different states, what do you love best about them?
  2. How do you spend your time on rainy, winter days?
  3. Can you share a little about your latest read?
  4. Is there anything especially interesting that you haven’t covered in other interviews that you could share with us or perhaps there is something God has laid on your heart that you would like to share with your readers? 

ABOUT THE BOOK The Seamstress of Acadie

Gifted seamstress Sylvie Galant and her Acadian family desire to live peacefully and remain neutral in the upcoming war between the French and the English. But the proximity of their land on Acadie’s rugged shores makes them an easy target. While tensions escalate, Sylvie encounters Major William Blackburn. Although he is a British Army Ranger, Blackburn warns her that the British are poised to invade. But the warning cannot counteract the plans or stop the tide of English soldiers. 

William Blackburn has seen firsthand the atrocities that the British have done to the Acadian families and their villages. Rather than participate in the heinous expulsion, Will resigns his commission before a charge of treason is brought against him. 

When Sylvie is forcibly removed from her homeland, she finds herself on a ramshackle ship headed to Virginia, where she crosses paths once again with Will. Together they must work through the complex tangle of their shared, shattered past to navigate the present and forge an enduring future.

Book questions

We have a British Army Ranger and a seamstress in a war-ravaged land who are cast into an even more perilous situation, headed for America. This sounds like quite the adventure romance!

  1. Can you tell us what inspired this story?
  2. What is the historical significance of Acadie’s Location?
  3. Concerning the romantic thread, what is special about Sylvie and William?
  4. What’s next for your writing?

Connect with Laura Frantz: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about Of Love and Treason with Jamie Ogle

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About the Author

Jamie Ogle is a predawn writer, homeschool mom by day, and a reader by night. Inspired by her fascination with the storied history of faith, she writes historical fiction infused with hope, adventure, and courageous rebels. A Minnesota native, she now lives in Iowa with her husband and their three children, and she can usually be found gardening, beekeeping, and tromping through the woods.

Author questions:

  1. How did you get into beekeeping, and what do you love about it?
  2. I love the tagline for your stories on your website – “Good rebels, deep faith.” Can you tell us about how (and why) the theme of rebels worked its way into your story signature?
  3. As a homeschool mom, how do you think being a writer affects your approach as a teacher?
  4. Is there anything especially interesting that you haven’t covered in other interviews that you could share with us or perhaps there is something God has laid on your heart that you would like to share with your readers? 

About the book: Of Love and Treason

Valentine defies the emperor and becomes a hero . . . and the most wanted man in the empire. Compelled by his faith, he has nothing to lose, until a chance encounter with the daughter of a Roman jailor changes everything. 

Rome, AD 270. In the wake of the emperor’s marriage ban, rumors swirl that there is one man brave enough to perform wedding ceremonies in secret. A public notarius and leader of an underground church, Valentine believes the emperor’s edict unjust and risks his own life for the sake of his convictions. But as his fame grows, so do fears for his safety.

Iris, the daughter of a Roman jailor, believes regaining her sight will ease the mounting troubles at home. Her last hope rests in searching out Valentine and his church, but the danger of associating with people labeled a threat to the empire is great. Still, as Iris’s new friends lead her to faith in God, Iris is drawn to Valentine and they both begin to hope for a future together beyond the treacherous empire.

But when a past debt and a staggering betrayal collide, Valentine, Iris, and everyone they love must fight for their lives . . . and wrestle with trusting a God who can restore sight yet does not always keep His followers from peril.

Book Questions

Ancient Rome and the early Church–the perfect setup for dangerous adventure and deep themes. Also, we seem to have a well-known historical figure at the forefront.

  1. Did you learn anything surprising about St. Valentine as you were researching for this book?
  2. I love how there are some jailers with pretty interesting experiences in the New Testament, and you have a heroine who is the daughter of a Roman jailer. How does that shape Iris’ life?
  3. As you were researching ancient Rome for this book, did you run across any surprising facts?
  4. What’s next for your writing?

Connect with Jamie Ogle: Newsletter, BookBub, Amazon, Pinterest, Facebook, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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2024, Here We Come

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Hello and welcome to another season of the Historical Bookworm Show. We are so blessed to be on the air, chatting with authors, and sharing such amazing historical books.

Current giveaways include:

We Three Kings: A Romance Christmas Collection– ends on January 8 

Until Then by Cindy and Erin Woodsmall – Jan. 14

Here is a transcript of when Darcy and I shared a little of our personal life.

KyLee: So, Darcy, hello. Can you share what is going on in your life?

Darcy: Well, to tell the truth, a lot of going to work has been going on in my life. But, something more festive—down here in St. Augustine, as I’ve mentioned before, we have the Nights of Lights from about the middle of November to the end of January.

So the whole historic district downtown is done up somewhere upward of 3 million lights and it’s beautiful, absolutely magical. The shop that I manage has been staying open later and all that good stuff. So, it’s been really fun to, you know, kind of be a part of this community endeavor, which is great for our city.

And also, it’s just so much fun to be part of people’s Christmas celebrations. So, I’ve actually really enjoyed that. It’s been great for my Christmas-loving heart, but next year I am looking forward to hopefully a trip to Guatemala for business. With the fair trade shop, the owner usually travels to a couple of countries a year, on buying trips, and I get to go this year. So, I’m super excited. I will come back all bubbly full of hopefully cool things to share with you guys.

Darcy: How about you, KyLee? What’s up these days?

KyLee: Well, my family and I are mostly settled here in Texas. We lived here from 2012 to 2016, so when my kids were much younger. And so, we were established in a really lovely church. We’ve returned, and it’s just like going home. If the doors are open, we are there.

When we lived in Oregon, it was such a struggle sometimes to get my kids to go to youth group. Here, not so. For example, they didn’t have youth last Wednesday night after Christmas. Seven o’clock rolls around and my son was like, “We’re gonna be late for church!” and I was like, “Honey, we’re not having church. You know, because the holidays.” and he was like, “Well who made up that rule?” LOL

KyLee: So, we are having a wonderful time being at church, and then also spending time with my husband’s family. My oldest was in second grade when we left Texas, and now she’s a sophomore. It’s amazing to see my children get reacquainted with their cousins.

We are also loving Waco! There are so many things to do. It’s just so beautiful. I work not far from Magnolia. We’ve gone to the Dr. Pepper Museum. And Baylor is just amazing! There’s so many things to see there. And so, yeah, it’s been great!

Bloopers

As we dive into this new season, we’re going to try to add bloopers every so often, because we have so much fun on this show. And there are so many random things that happen and we get a kick out of them. So, hopefully, we’ll be sharing a few of those things here and there.

Accomplishments/Data

Not sure why it says we’ve been at it since Dec. 2023. LOL. But, there are the stats. 🙂
  • Total downloads 13.2K
  • 87 total episodes

For more data on Historical Booworm, follow this link.

Support the show with a cup of coffee!

This is a completely independent podcast that supports our Christian Book Association by promoting historical authors. We do have a number of operating expenses that peek up, especially at the beginning of the year. KyLee and I make no profit whatsoever. We are happy to have this opportunity to bring you an inside look at the authors and their books.

 If you want to support the show with a one-time gift that costs as little as one cup of coffee, you can now do so. Just go to: BuyMeACoffee.com/HistoricalBookworm 

Themes for this year

“Dream: the 6 Stages of Faith” by Rick Warren

If you’re a believer, God will work throughout your life to grow your faith. In fact, there’s a six-phase process of faith—a dream, decision, delay, difficulty, dead end, and deliverance—that God will take you through again and again to develop your character and help you fulfill the dream he has given you. Find out more at PastorRick.com/series/created-to-dream/ 

Preview of next spring

Authors you can expect to hear on the show include: Laura Frantz, Jamie Olge, Sarah Sundin, Amanda Wen, and our very own Angela Bell. you have probably heard her lovely voice on the show. She writes for our review team! You will also hear from Tracie Peterson, Kimberley Woodhouse, Erin Bartels, Joanna Davidson Politano, and Jaynre Tromp.

Call to action: What questions might you want to ask our future guests? Connect with us at KyLee@Historicalbookworm.com 

A new year always brings unforeseen adventures, some lovely, some less so. Whatever your year brings, we pray you hold to hope in the hard spots and overflow with joy on the sunny days. And may your reading hour always be uninterrupted.

Connect with us

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A Bookchat about Until Then with Cindy and Erin Woodsmall

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About the authors:

Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times and CBA bestselling author of twenty-six works of fiction and one nonfiction book. Coverage of Cindy’s writing has been featured on ABC’s Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal. She lives in the foothills of the north Georgia mountains with her husband, just a short distance from two of her three sons and her six grandchildren.

Erin Woodsmall is a writer, musician, wife, and mom of four. She has edited, brainstormed, and researched books with Cindy for almost a decade. More recently she and Cindy have coauthored five books, one of which was a winner of the prestigious Christy Award.

Author questions:

  1. Would you rather take a week’s vacation and not do any reading, or stay at home for a week with nothing to do but read (no chores, no TV or movies, no leaving the house, no writing)?
  2. The two of you are a mother- and daughter-in-law writing team. How did you come to team up for writing novels?
  3. In the busyness of life, what are some things you do to keep yourself grounded and peaceful?
  4. Is there anything especially interesting you haven’t covered in other interviews that you could share with us, or perhaps something God has laid on your heart to share with your readers?

About the book:

Now let’s take a moment to talk about your latest release, Until Then.

In 1985, Old Order Amish couple Celeste and Vin Lantz have been married for six years. Vin is a carpenter by trade but an artist in his heart. He is especially captivated by drawing portraits, which the Amish consider idolatry. Knowing they could be shunned, Celeste is shocked to discover that Vin has secretly been sketching her and their sons. When she confronts Vin, they argue and Vin storms off . . . and seems to disappear, leaving Celeste to wonder if he chose his art over his family.

When he leaves the house that night, Vin seeks peace on his favorite mountain overlook. But he takes a fall and wakes to find himself injured and lost. Vin soon realizes just how far he has traveled―not only in distance but back in time, to 1822 Ohio, a place that provides the freedom he craved but where he is separated from his beloved wife and children. Vin is saved by the kindness of strangers and gradually learns to survive and even to use his skills to help his new friends in this unfamiliar time and place. But all the while he prays desperately for God to return him to his family, before Celeste makes a new life without him.

Book questions:

Okay, I’m loving the intrigue of a married couple being separated by a time-slip, rather than a single person slipping in time and finding love.

  1. What themes did you explore through this idea of traveling in time?
  2. We think of the Amish as a community of people trapped in time, but how was life different for the Amish in 1822?
  3. How did you approach writing the romance thread for this story when Celeste and Vin spend a significant part of the story separated from each other?
  4. What’s next for your writing?

Connect with  Cindy and Erin:  Website, Facebook, Instagram, GoodReads, and Amazon

Cindy and Erin are offering a copy of Until Then. You can enter to win below.

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A Bookchat about Star of Wonder with Crystal Caudill

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About the author:

Crystal Caudill is the author of “dangerously good historical romance,” with her work garnering awards from Romance Writers of America and ACFW. Her debut novel Counterfeit Love was a 2023 Carol Award finalist. She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver, and when she isn’t writing, Crystal can be found playing board games with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading other great books at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio.

Let’s start with something fun.

  1. Since we’re discussing a Christmas book today, what is your personal favorite Christmas tradition?
  2. As a writer, do you have more fun developing the characters or the plot for a story?
  3. Your bio mentions you’re a stay-at-home mom. What do you think is the most important thing you’ve learned about parenting over the years?
  4. Is there anything especially interesting you haven’t covered in other interviews that you could share with us, or perhaps something God has laid on your heart to share with your readers?

About the book

Now let’s take a moment to talk about your latest release, Star of Wonder, a novella in the collection titled, We Three Kings: A Romance Christmas Collection.

Best-selling romance authors Caudill, Putman, and Strong follow three generations of the Weise family in this third collection of Christmas novellas from Kregel.

“Star of Wonder” by Crystal Caudill

The Christmas-themed maiden voyage of his family’s grand steamer ship was supposed to be Aldrich Weise’s chance both to instill investor confidence and to romance Celestia Isaacs. Instead, he must foil a criminal and leave his lady love behind forever.

“Beauty Bright” by Cara Putman

Lieutenant Charles Weise served as a Monuments Man after World War II and now works to restore stolen art to rightful owners. Captain Lillian Thorsen pairs up with him not only to return treasures but also to fix the war-torn lives around them.

“Perfect Light” by Angela Ruth Strong

Essential oils mogul Brendon Wise is drawn to Lacey Foster, the event planner for his huge Christmas lights festival. But when he inadvertently makes a spectacle of her on television, Lacey wants nothing to do with him. Will a chance to give gifts to those in need at Christmas be the key to discovering common ground–and maybe love?

Book questions

So your story is the one set farthest back in history of these three novellas, and we are exploring a steamer ship–one that hides some dangerous secrets.

  1. It’s so interesting to see how people celebrated Christmas in the past, so what sort of festivities did Aldrich Weise plan for his grand Christmas voyage on a steamer ship?
  2. The blurb doesn’t give us any hints, so can you tell us a little about Celestia Isaacs?
  3. What was your favorite tidbit of history you ran across while researching for this story?
  4. What’s next for your writing?

Crystal is offering a copy of We Three Kings: A Romance Christmas Collection. You can enter to win below.

Connect with Crystal Caudill: Newsletter, Facebook, Facebook group, Instagram, TwitterGoodReads, BookBub, Amazon, and Pinterest

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A Bookchat about The Wings of Poppy Pendleton with Melanie Dobson.

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About the author

Writing fiction is  Melanie Dobson’s excuse to immerse herself in the past by reading old books, interviewing new friends, and exploring fascinating places around the world. She is the award-winning author of almost thirty historical, time-slip, and romantic suspense novels. 

Melanie received her undergraduate degree in journalism from Liberty University and her master’s degree in communication from Regent University. When she’s not writing, Melanie enjoys teaching at writer’s events and as an adjunct professor.

Melanie Dobsonlives with her husband Jon in the Pacific Northwest. They have two daughters and enjoy traveling, hiking, and serving together in their community.

About the book

In this compelling new time-slip mystery, a little girl goes missing from her family’s castle in the Thousand Islands of New York. Eighty-five years later, a journalist teams up with a woman living on Koster Isle to find out what happened to Poppy.

1907. On the eve of her fifth birthday, Poppy Pendleton is tucked safely in her bed, listening to her parents entertain New York’s gilded society in their Thousand Islands castle; the next morning, she is gone, and her father is found dead in his smoking room.

1992. Though Chloe Ridell lives in the shadows of Poppy’s ruined castle, she has little interest in the mystery that still captivates tourists and locals alike. She is focused on preserving the island she inherited from her grandparents and reviving their vintage candy shop. Until the day a girl named Emma shows up on Chloe’s doorstep, with few possessions, save a tattered scrapbook that connects her to the Pendleton family. When a reporter arrives at Chloe’s store, asking questions about her grandfather, Chloe decides to help him dig into a past she’d thought best left buried. The haunting truth about Poppy, they soon discover, could save Emma’s life. Chloe and Logan must work together to investigate exactly what happened long ago on Koster Isle.

Questions

  1. With autumn bringing the start of football season, as well as baseball’s World Series, I’m wondering if you enjoy watching or playing any sports. (If not at all, feel free to talk about another activity/hobby you enjoy.) 🙂 
  2. Your bio mentions that your professional writing began with journalism. How do you think that influences your fiction writing?
  3. I saw on your website that you were an avid reader as a child. What is a favorite book written for young readers that still sticks with you today (and why)?
  4. Is there anything interesting that you haven’t covered in other interviews that you could share with us, or is there something God has laid on your heart that you would like to share with your readers?
  5. Was your novel inspired by a real-life unsolved disappearance, or did something else spark the idea?
  6. What cool tidbits of history did you discover while looking at New York’s high society in the early twentieth century?
  7. So the blurb gives us a touch of Chloe’s backstory–she’s inherited a candy shop from her grandparents–but all we know of Logan is that he’s a reporter. What brings him to investigate Chloe’s grandfather and the tragedy of Poppy Pendleton?
  8. What is next for you, book-wise?

Connect with Melanie via newsletter, Book Bub, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Pinterest, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about A Million Little Choices with Tamera Alexander

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About the author

Tamera Alexander is a USA Today bestselling novelist and one of today’s most beloved authors of inspirational historical romance. Her works have been awarded numerous industry-leading honors—among them the Christy Award, the RITA Award, the Carol Award, and Library Journal’s top honors—and have earned the distinction of Publisher’s Weekly Starred Reviews. Her deeply drawn characters and thought-provoking plots have earned her devoted readers worldwide, including Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, and Romania, among others.

Tamera and her husband reside in Nashville, Tennessee, where they live a short distance from Nashville’s Belmont Mansion, Belle Meade Plantation, and Carnton —the settings of Tamera’s #1 CBA bestselling Southern series.

About the book

Two women from different centuries living in the same house share strikingly similar journeys.

Claire Powell’s life is turned upside down when her beloved husband admits to a “near affair.” But when Stephen accepts a partnership with an Atlanta law firm without consulting her and buys a historic Southern home sight-unseeing—it pushes their already-fractured marriage to the breaking point. Claire’s world spirals, and she soon finds herself in a marriage she no longer wants, in a house she never asked for.

In 1863, Charlotte Thursmann, pregnant and trapped in a marriage to an abusive husband, struggles to protect her unborn child and the enslaved members of her household. Desperate, she’s determined to right the evils her husband and others like him commit. But how can one woman put an end to such injustice? Especially if her husband makes good on his threat to kill her?

Both Claire and Charlotte discover truths about themselves they never realized, along with secrets long hidden that hold the power to bring God’s restoration—if only they choose to let it.

Questions

  1. If you could travel back in time for a vacation, would you rather visit the remote setting of your Timber Ridge Reflections series (Colorado Territory) or the Reconstruction-era South setting of your Belmont Mansion series?
  2. You have written three series set in the post-Civil War South. How do you approach writing in such a politically charged and emotionally heavy time period?
  3. And now we have a fan-submitted question: Out of all your many novels and novellas, over all the series and standalones you’ve written, who is your favorite heroine and why?
  4. As far as the historical side goes, you’ve moved from writing about after the Civil War to setting your story smack in the middle of the conflict. Did that make a difference for your writing, or did it feel like a natural transition?
  5. As mentioned, this is your first time venturing into a contemporary setting, which is super exciting. Other than the old house, what ties these two storylines together?
  6. What’s next for your writing?

Listeners, Tamera is offering a copy of  A Million Little Choices. To enter, check out the giveaway page on our website Historical Bookworm dot com. You also find the giveaway link in the show notes for this episode. 

Connect with Tamera: website, newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about The Peasant King with Tessa Afshar

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Tessa Afshar joins us for a chat about King Darius of the Bible, writing historical fiction, and her latest release The Peasant King. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!   

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tessa Afshar is the Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of biblical and inspirational historical fiction, including Land of Silence, which won an INSPY Award and was voted by Library Journal as one of the top five Christian fiction titles of 2016, and Harvest of Gold, which won a Christy Award in the Historical Romance category.

Tessa was born in the Middle East and lived there for the first fourteen years of her life. She then moved to England, where she survived boarding school for girls and fell in love with Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte, before moving to the United States permanently.

Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life forever. Tessa holds a Master of Divinity from Yale, and she served in women and prayer ministries for twenty years before becoming a full-time writer and speaker.

Tessa is a devoted wife, an enthusiastic cook, and a mediocre gardener. But that has not cured her from being exceptionally fond of chocolate.

Questions

Let’s start with something fun.

  1. I love how on your website you welcome readers in true Middle Eastern style. What would you say is your favorite part of Middle Eastern culture that you still carry with you today?
  2. If you could have tea with anyone from history, who would it be?
  3. What is a common piece of life advice you hear that you disagree with (and why)?
  4. Is there anything interesting that you haven’t covered in other interviews that you could share with us, or is there something God has laid on your heart that you would like to share with your readers?

ABOUT THE BOOK

Jemmah has always thought of herself as perfectly ordinary . . . until she faces extraordinary circumstances.

When her mother, the Persian king’s famous senior scribe, is kidnapped, Jemmah and her sister must sneak undetected into enemy territory to rescue her. But infiltrating their adversary’s lands proves easier than escaping them. Fleeing through dangerous mountain passes, their survival depends on the skills of a stranger they free from prison: a mysterious prince named Asher.

Despite his royal blood, he has had to climb his way out of poverty to forge success from nothing. A manufacturer of some of the best weaponry in the East, Asher has only one goal: to destroy his father. But following his escape from prison, Asher is irresistibly drawn to Jemmah, unaware that she guards her own secret.

Jemmah must convince Asher to give up everything he has worked for, all for the sake of a higher purpose he’s not sure he believes in. The fate of the Persian empire—and possibly the Judean people—hang in the balance, and in the persuasive power of one ordinary woman.

A prince living as a peasant and an ordinary girl trying to free her mother – sounds like a great Medieval set up, but this is biblical times fiction!

  1. Do any famous Bible figures appear in this story?
  2. I love the theme of an ordinary young woman accomplishing extraordinary things. Could you tell us a little more about who Jemmah is? She basically answered this 
  3. Did you learn anything surprising about ancient weaponry and warfare while researching Asher’s trade? (Or share some interesting tidbit you researched especially for this story.) 🙂
  4. What is next for you with your writing?

Connect with Tessa Afshar: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about This Is Where It Ends with Cindy K. Sproles 

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Cindy K. Sproles joins us for a chat about her favorite southern, comfort food, writing fiction and nonfiction, and her latest release This Is Where It Ends. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book! 

In This is Where it Ends, Widow Minerva Jenkins has lived alone in her small mountain home for 40 years where she has guarded her husband’s deathbed request. When a young reporter comes calling and inquires about a rumored box of gold on her property, an unlikely friendship forms. Will she go to her grave with her husband’s secret, or will the weight of it be the death of her?

Connect with Cindy K. Sproles: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

Cindy is the author of What Momma Left Behind and the cofounder of Christian Devotions Ministries. A popular speaker, Cindy teaches at writers conferences across the country and directs the Asheville Christian Writers Conference in North Carolina. She is the executive editor of ChristianDevotions.us and freelance editor for Iron Stream Media. Cindy has a BA in business and journalism and lives in the mountains of East Tennessee with her family.

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A Bookchat about Yesterday’s Tides with Roseanna M. White

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About the author

Today we are talking with Roseanna M. White about her spring release Yesterday’s Tides. Rosanna is a bestselling, Christy Award–winning author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself.

To start us off, I ran across an interesting bookish conundrum on Facebook the other day that I thought would be fun to ask.

  1. Would you rather never be able to finish reading a series, or never be able to reread a favorite novel?
  2. Readers debate all the time about the benefits of not finishing a book that doesn’t capture your interest. Have you ever read a book (or author) you disliked at first but grew to enjoy?
  3. Which of your books cost you the most emotionally to write, and why?
  4. Is there anything especially interesting that you haven’t covered in other interviews that you could share with us or perhaps there is something God has laid on your heart that you would like to share with your readers? 

About the book: Yesterday’s Tides

In 1942, Evie Farrow is used to life on Ocracoke Island, where every day is the same—until the German U-boats haunting their waters begin to wreak havoc. And when special agent Sterling Bertrand is washed ashore at Evie’s inn, her life is turned upside down. While Sterling’s injuries keep him inn-bound for weeks, making him even more anxious about the man he’s tracking, he becomes increasingly intrigued by Evie, who seems to be hiding secrets of her own. 

Decades earlier, in 1914, Englishman Remington Culbreth arrives at the Ocracoke Inn for the summer, but he doesn’t count on falling in love with Louisa Adair, the innkeeper’s daughter. When war breaks out in Europe, and their relationship is put in jeopardy, will their love survive?

As Evie and Sterling work to track down an elusive German agent, they unravel mysteries that go back a generation. The ripples from the Great War are still rocking their lives, and it seems yesterday’s tides may sweep them all into danger again today.

Both World Wars in the same novel, plus two romances and intertwined intrigue. This is quite a premise!

  1. What inspired you to write a novel with timelines in both world wars?
  2. Yesterday’s Tides addresses themes such as giving up and reclaiming your dreams. Can you tell us a little more about how this idea comes into play in the lives of your two female protagonists, Louisa and Evie?
  3. Who is your favorite secondary character in this story and why? (Share one from each timeline if you like!) 😀
  4. What are you working on next?

Connect with Roseanna: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Book about A Brighter Dawn by Leslie Gould

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Leslie Gould joins us for a chat about Amish and Mennonite History, WW2, beloved readers, and her novel A Brighter Dawn. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

About Leslie

My strongest memories from childhood include stories of hope and grace—and how those stories connected me to family and friends. I also soaked up stories of redemption in the small-town churches we attended.

I’ve written a large collection of dual-time, Amish, and contemporary novels, set in a variety of places—from the Pacific Northwest to Amish Country to France to Vietnam.

My husband, Peter, and I have been married forty years and have four adult children and one grandchild. We live in Portland, Oregon and enjoy traveling, urban hikes, and hanging out with family and friends!

About the Book

Ivy Zimmerman is successfully navigating her life as a young Mennonite woman, one generation removed from her parents’ Old Order Amish upbringing. But when her parents are killed in a tragic accident, Ivy’s way of life is upended. As she deals with her grief, her younger sisters’ needs, the relationship with her boyfriend, and her Dawdi and Mammi’s strict rules, Ivy finds solace in both an upcoming trip to Germany for an international Mennonite youth gathering and in her great-great-aunt’s story about Clare Simons, another young woman who visited Germany in the late 1930s.

As Ivy grows suspicious that her parents’ deaths weren’t, in fact, an accident, she gains courage from what she learns of Clare’s time in pre-World War II Germany. With the encouragement and inspiration of the women who have gone before her, Ivy seeks justice for her parents, her sisters, and herself.

Connect with Leslie

Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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Episode 67: A Bookchat about A Match in the Making with Jen Turano

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Jen Turano joins us for a chat about fashion, Gilded Age matchmaking, her writing quirks, and her novel A Match in the Making. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

About Jen

Named One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She’s been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. When she’s not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, Colorado.

About the book

Miss Gwendolyn Brinley accepted a temporary paid companion position for the Newport summer season, believing it would be a lark to spend the summer in America’s most exclusive town. She suddenly finds her summer turning anything but amusing when her employer expects her to take over responsibilities as an assistant matchmaker. Tasked with the daunting prospect of attaining advantageous matches for her clients, Gwendolyn soon finds herself in the company of Mr. Walter Townsend, the catch of the Season, but a gentleman Gwendolyn finds beyond annoying.

Walter is reluctantly in search of a wife for the sake of his unruly motherless children. What he wasn’t expecting was Miss Brinley, who turns his quest for a new wife into a complete and utter debacle.

The more time they spend together throughout the Newport Season, the harder it is for Gwendolyn to find Walter a wife when she realizes his perfect match might be . . . her.

USA Today bestselling author Jen Turano’s trademark wit, sweet romance, and hilarious mischief will keep you turning the pages of this lively Gilded Age tale.

Connect with Jen

Jen’s free novella Gentleman of Her Dreams which was mentioned on the show.  

Connect with  Jen: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about After the Shadows with Amanda Cabot & a Review of Remember Me by Tracie Peterson

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Amanda Cabot joins us for a chat about her latest release After the Shadows. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at the largest earthquake in California’s recorded history and comparable to the 1906 San Francisco quake.

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Grace Hitchcock shares her review of Remember Me by Tracie Peterson. (Full review here.)

Connect with Amanda Cabot: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, her blog, and BookBub.

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A Bookchat about The Metropolitan Affair with Jocelyn Green & a Review of Fairest of Heart by Karen Witemeyer.

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Jocelyn Green joins us for a chat about her favorite books, Egyptomania, and her latest release The Metropolitan Affair. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at masked heroes of television including Zorro and The Loan Ranger. 

Today’s Bookworm Review features Fairest of Heart by Karen Witemeyer.  (Full review here.)


Connect with Jocelyn Green: her website, Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about Remember Me with Tracie Peterson & a Review of The Blackout Book Club by Amy Lynn Green

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Tracie Peterson joins us for a chat about the World’s Fair, Seattle, historical cameras, and her latest release REMEMBER ME. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at Houses of Refuge with Crystal Caudill  (You can read the blog version on Crystal’s website www.CrystalCaudill.com.)

Today’s Bookworm Review features The Blackout Book Club by Amy Lynn Green.  “World War II, a plethora of wonderful books, and a diverse cast of characters make up the latest book from Amy Lynn Green known as The Blackout Book Club.” (Full review here.)

Connect with  TRACIE PETERSON: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about The All-American with Susie Finkbeiner & a Review of Where the Last Rose Blooms by Ashley Clark

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Susie Finkbeiner joins us for a chat about her beloved state of Michigan, what draws her to write stories set in the 50s and 60s, and her latest release The All-American. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book! Widow Minerva Jenkins has lived alone in her small mountain home for 40 years where she has guarded her husband’s deathbed request. When a young reporter comes calling and inquires about a rumored box of gold on her property, an unlikely friendship forms. Will she go to her grave with her husband’s secret, or will the weight of it be the death of her?

For today’s Pinch of the Past we are looking at some little-known facts about sequences. Did you know that Egyptomania thrust sequences into the fashion spotlight in the 1920s? For more, listen to the episode. 

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Angela Bell. “Where the Last Rose Blooms by Ashley Clark is everything I’d hoped it would be. Poignant. Beautiful. With the warmth and southern charm of my Granny’s hand-stitched quilt.” (Full review here.)

Connect with  Susie Finkbeiner: Facebook, BookBub, Twitter, Goodreads, Instagram, YouTube, her Newsletter, and Amazon.

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A Bookchat about Code Name Edelweiss with Stephanie Landsem & a Review of Yesterday’s Tides by Roseanna M. White.

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Stephanie Landsem joins us for a chat about travel, her favorite Bible stories, and her latest release Code Name Edelweiss. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

Stephanie Landsem writes historical fiction for women, about women. She’s traveled the world in real life and traveled through time in her research and imagination. As she’s learned about women of the past, she’s come to realize that these long-ago women were very much like us. They loved, dreamed, and made mistakes. They struggled, failed, and triumphed. She writes to honor their lives and to bring today’s women hope and encouragement. Stephanie makes her home in Minnesota with her husband, two cats and a dog, and frequent visits from her four adult children. Along with reading, writing, and research, she dreams about her next travel adventure—whether it be in person or on the page.

For today’s Pinch of the Past, Darcy brings us three interesting battle items of medieval times.

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Angela Bell. Yesterday’s Tides by Roseanna M. White.  (Full review here.)

Connect with Stephanie: Newsletter, her website, Amazon, Facebook, and Instagram. Plus you can get a free story set in 1930s Hollywood: All That Glitters

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A Bookchat about The Sound of Light with Sarah Sundin & a Review of The Thief of Blackfriars Lane by Michelle Griep.

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Sarah Sundin joins us for a chat about her two rescue dogs, her favorite time period, and her latest release The Sound of Light. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at three hero dogs of World War Two, the largest of which was a 150 lb. Newfoundland and the smallest a 4 lb. Yorkshire Terrier.

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Angela Bell. “The Thief of Blackfriars Lane by Michelle Griep, is a rollicking adventure from beginning to end! With edge-of-your-seat action and Dickensian flair, Griep has created a fun story that will transport readers to the Victorian Era.” (Full review here.)

Connect with Sarah Sundin: Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, BookBub, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about Forged in Love with Mary Connealy & a Review of Premonition at Withers Farm by Jaime Jo Wright

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Mary Connealy joins us for a chat about hymns, blacksmiths in Wyoming, her favorite books, and her latest release Forged in Love. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at  Old Western terms and quotes.

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Angela Bell. “If you’re obsessed with true crime and love gothic fiction, you’re sure to agree that “Premonition at Withers Farm by Jaime Jo Wright is a haunting read!” (Full review here.)

Connect with Mary: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about The Maid of Ballymacool with Jennifer Deibel & a Review of Code Name Edelweiss by Stephanie Landsem

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Jennifer Deibel joins us for a chat about Irish foods, the uniqueness of historical fiction, and her latest release The Maid of Ballymacool. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at the Victorian Etiquette of Courtship.

Today’s Bookworm Review is brought to you by Narelle Adkins from Story Chats Podcast. “Code Name Edelweiss by Stephanie Landsem is a Christian novel, and the faith themes are woven beautifully into the story.” (Full review here.)

You can connect with Jennifer Deibel at: Amazon, Instagram, Facebook, Goodreads, and BookBub.

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A Bookchat about Daughter of Eden with Jill Eileen Smith & a Review of  The Mistletoe Countess by Pepper Basham

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The Episode

Jill Eileen Smith joins us for a chat about ancient history, writing biblical fiction, and her latest release Daughter of Eden. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at Lucy Goodale Thurston a missionary to the Hawaiian Islands in the early 1800s. 

Today’s Bookworm Review is brought to you by Christie K of this Historical Bookworm Review Team. “Pepper Basham’s previous books have always consisted of standout characters a reader can’t resist rooting and falling for. In The Mistletoe Countess, Basham stays true to her loyal followers.” (Read full review here.)

Connect with Jill Eileen Smith: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about The Rose and the Thistle with Laura Frantz & a Review of The Cairo Curse by Pepper Basham

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Laura Frantz joins us for a chat about castles, Scottish heritage, travel and her latest release The Rose and the Thistle. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we had Tisha Martin on the show to share Novel Research: Town History. It’s always fun to dig into the history of the town you’re writing about. Many famous people grew up in small towns, which is really surprising. (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Christie K. “The Cairo Curse by Pepper Basham is the second in a series and there are several allusions to the instances in the first book but it could function as a standalone. Except, the first book was so much fun to read that I highly recommend reading that one too!” (Full review here.)

Enter the giveaway by following this link or below.

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A Bookchat about Double the Lies with Patricia Raybon & a Review of All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes

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Patricia Raybon joins us for a chat about under-appreciated novels, taking one day at a time, special readers, and her latest release Double the Lies. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at the defense of a castle! As decades of siege warfare passed, architects and designers learned to use even the smallest things to their advantage to make a castle as defensible as possible… (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Christie K. “All the Lost Places has themes of forgiveness and grace woven throughout with very mild violence during the climatic scene. Both stories have sweet romances.” (Full review here.)

Connect with  Patricia Raybon: www.PatriciaRaybon.com, Bookclub, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

Mentions in the episode: Cry, the Beloved Country by Alan Paton book recommendation.

“While you live, tell truth and shame the devil!”

– William Shakespeare

Henry IV, Part 1, Act 3, Scene 1.

Ad link: Join Kimberly Woodhouse @ A Million Miles with Kim

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A Bookchat about The Weight of Air with Kimberly Duffy & a Review of The Secrets of Emberwild by Stephenia H McGee

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Kimberly Duffy joins us for a chat about travel, writing, and her latest release The Weight of Air. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

On today’s Pinch of the Past we will be looking at an extraordinary woman before her time. Ada Lovelace is considered the first computer programmer, was the daughter of Lord Byron, and the most wealthy women of the 1800s. (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Christie K.

“If you’re in the mood for a combustible combination of danger, romance, strong characters, willful horses, and family drama–The Secrets of Emberwild by Stephenia H McGee is a must-read!” (Full review here.)

Connect with  Kimberly Duffy at: Newsletter, Amazon, Pinterest, Facebook, Goodreads, and Instagram.

Current giveaways include Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams by Jennifer Lamont Leo & A Mark of Grace by Kimberly Woodhouse.

Ad link: Join Kimberly Woodhouse @ A Million Miles with Kim

A Million Miles with Kim

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A Bookchat about Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams with Jennifer Lamont Leo & a Review of His Delightful Lady Delia by Grace Hitchcock

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Jennifer Lamont Leo joins us for a chat about Hollywood, Christians in film, and her latest release Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at a children’s temperance society in the 1800s, The Band of Hope (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is His Delightful Lady Delia by Grace Hitchcock.  (Full review here.)

Connect with Jennifer Lamont Leo : her podcast The Sparkling Vintage Life, JenniferLamontLeo.com, Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about A Mark of Grace with Kimberly Woodhouse & a Review of The Debutante’s Code by Erica Vetsch

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In episode 53: Kimberly Woodhouse joins us for a chat about new year resolutions, One Million Miles with Kim, future writing projects, and her latest release A Mark of Grace. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

Kim was on the show last year sharing A Gem of Truth. You can find that episode here. 

Pinch of the Past: The Band of Hope Park 1. There is nothing new under the sun. I don’t know how many times I’ve heard my dad say that over the years. I guess I should not have been surprised then when I ran across a temperance association that educated children(!) about the dangers of drugs and alcohol in the 1800s. Like our modern-day D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education.) (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Angela Bell of the Historical Bookworm Review Team. Here is part of her review of The Debutante’s Code.

 “Erica Vetsch has once again proven herself to be a skilled writer with a flair for capturing the details and atmosphere of a historic setting. Her words bring Regency Era London to life, juxtaposing grimy pubs and glittering ballrooms so vividly that one wonders if Vetsch is in fact a time-traveler recounting her visits to the past.” (Full review here.)

Connect with Kimberly Woodhouse: Book Bub, Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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Episode 52: A Christmas Special & a Bookchat about O Little Town with Janyre Tromp

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In today’s episode, we are joined by Janyre Tromp for a chat about our favorite Christmas stories historical and recently released, including the novella set Janyre is a part of, O Little Town. 

Janyre is a historical novelist who loves spinning tales that, at their core, hunt for beauty, even when it isn’t pretty. She’s also a book editor, published children’s book author, and lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with her family, two crazy cats, and a slightly eccentric Shetland Sheepdog.

Here is a little about Janyre’s novella “While Mortals Sleep.”

While World War II rages overseas, news reporter Eleanor Sweers returns home to Mapleview to face the repercussions of the death of her sister and her nightmare of Christmases past. But the homefront isn’t as far from the war as she thought: a bomb has landed in the middle of the U.S. Now Eleanor and family friend Gideon Braum may have to choose between the scoop of a lifetime and the love of a lifetime.

Connect with Janyer: Newsletter, Amazon, Website, Facebook, Goodreads, and Instagram.

Connect with Janyer on Instagram

Listener Recommended Christmas Book List

  1. Mistletoe Countess by Pepper Basham 
  2. A Texas Christmas Carol by Karen Witemeyre 
  3. A Christmas Promise: A Victorian Christmas Novella by Gabrielle Meyer
  4. Five n Dime Christmas from Barbour 
  5. The Unbroken Song by Jennifer Q. Hunt
  6. Michelle Griep’s Once Upon a Dickens Christmas 
  7. Joy to the World novella collection by Erica Vetsch, Amanda Barratt, and Carolyn Miller.
  8. A Wreath of Snow by Liz Curtis Higgs 
  9. An Endless Christmas by Cynthia Ruchti.
  10. The Sugarplum Ladies by Carrie Fancett Pagels
  11. While Mortals Sleep by Janyre Tromp part of the O Little Town novlella set
  12. The Christmas Book by Lynn Austin
  13. Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander
  14. The Matchmaker’s Gift: by Lynda Cohen Loigman
  15. Holly’s Homecoming by Jenny Knipfer
  16. The Woodcarver’s Snow-kissed Christmas by Izzy James
  17. A Husband for Christmas Margaret Tanner
  18. The Doctor’s Daughter 
  19. Gabriel’s Gift by Susan Baganz
  20.  Yesterday’s Christmas by A.M. Heath 
  21. A Hill Country Christmas: Hope for Hardscrabble Times by Lynn Dean, Gail Kittleson, Michael Barr, Gina Lister, & Shannon McFarland
  22. Christmas Roses by Amanda Joy Cabot
  23.  Christmas at Whitefriars by  Elizabeth Camden
  24. An Ivy Hill Christmas by Julie Klassen
  25. Victorian Christmas Brides Collection
  26. Giver of Wonders by Roseanna White. 
  27. The Christmas Melody by Shanna Hatfield
  28. Holiday Hope by Shanna Hatfield
  29. Holiday Heart by Shanna Hatfield
  30. Holiday Home by Shanna Hatfield
  31. Christmas at the Inn by Ashley Clark Book
  32. A Log Cabin Christmas: 9 Historical Romances during American Pioneer Christmases by Margaret Brownley, Wanda E. Brunstetter, Kelly Eileen Hake, Liz Johnson , Jane Kirkpatrick, Liz Tolsma, Michelle Ule, Debra Ullrick, Erica Vetsch
  33. Christmas on King Street by Ashley Clark
  34. Christmas at the Inn by Ashley Clark
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A Bookchat about His Delightful Lady Delia with Grace Hitchcock & a Review of The Mobster’s Daughter by Rachel Scott McDaniel

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Grace Hitchcock joins us for a chat about the Gilded Age, opera phantoms, and her latest release His Delightful Lady Delia. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at a brief history of Santa Claus traditions. Did you know Santa didn’t run his delivery route on Christmas Eve until 1821? (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is brought to you by Angela Bell. “The Mobster’s Daughter by Rachel Scott McDaniel distills the atmospheric haze of a Noir film, the heel-kicking excitement of the Jazz Age, and the romantic tension of an almost kiss into a concoction as intoxicating as moonshine.” (Full review here.)

 Connect with Grace: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Goodreads, Pinterest, Twitter, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about Sisters of Sea View by Julie Klassen & a Review of Falling for the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund

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Julie Klassen joins us for a chat about regency England, Jane Austen Easter eggs, and her latest release Sisters of Sea View. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

A Pinch of the Past: What do Mary had a Little Lamb and Thanksgiving have in common? Author, editor, activist, and mother Sarah J. Hale. (Full post here.) 

Today’s Bookworm Review is brought to you by Megan Adams from the bookstagram account Messy Bun, Bookish Fun. “If you enjoy capable cowgirls, romance with a little sizzle, and family sagas, you’ll want to grab a copy of Falling for the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund.” (Full review here.)

Connect with Julie: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Goodreads, Pinterest, Twitter, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about The Hidden Prince with Tessa Afshar & a Review of The Lost Melody by Joanna Davidson Politano

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Tessa Afshar joins us for a chat about biblical fiction, ancient history, and her latest release The Hidden Prince. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, Michelle Griep joins us to share 3 Types of Victorian Travel. You might guess that the “penny-farthing” got its name from the cost of fare, but it has to do with the size of the coins. (Full post here.) Her book The Bride of Blackfriar’s Lane shows some of these transportation methods in action!

Today’s Bookworm Review is brought to you by Christie K. “In The Lost Melody, Politano creates another fantastic story with an undercurrent of foreboding, seemingly insurmountable obstacles, a forbidden romance, and a heroine who is determined to find her path through it all.” (Full review here.)

 Connect with Tessa: Newsletter (scroll down), Amazon, Facebook, Goodreads, Twitter, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about The Blackout Bookclub with Amy Lynn Green & a Review of Come Down Somewhere by Jennifer L. Wright

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Amy Lynn Green joins us for a chat about the radio stars, book clubs, and her latest release  The Blackout Bookclub. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at jobs people took to keep themselves out of the poorhouse. Did you know the origin of our term “sweatshop” was the 18th-century slop shop? (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is brought to you by Beth Bulow. “If you’re in the mood for a bold, eye-opening, and impactful coming of age tale based on true events in history – one that honors and validates those impacted – Come Down Somewhere by Jennifer L. Wright should be your next read.” (Full review here.)

Connect with Amy: Newsletter (scroll down), Amazon, Facebook, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about Caesar’s Lord with Bryan Litfin & a Review of Paint and Nectar by Ashley Clark.                                   

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Bryan Litfin joins us for a chat about Constantine’s empire, the early Church, writing, and his latest release Caesar’s Lord. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at some strange medical practices, one of which dates back to 6500 B.C. A treatment for headaches, head wounds, and madness, trepanning was not for the faint of heart. (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is brought to you by Angela Bell. “If you love southern fiction and nuanced dual time stories, Paint and Nectar is sure to be your cup of tea!” (Full review here.)

Connect with Bryan: Blog, Amazon, Facebook, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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Episode 46: A Bookchat about The Secrets of Emberwild with Stephenia McGee & a Review of The Hidden Prince by Tessa Afshar                                       

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Stephenia McGee joins us for a chat about horses, muscle cars, writing, and her latest release The Secrets of Emberwild. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at how birthdays have been celebrated throughout history. By the way, did you know that “Happy Birthday” is not public domain? That’s right, more than a 100 years old, and someone still owns the copyright. (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Beth Bulow. “If you love Biblical fiction full of endearing characters, a tender, hard-won romance, and exciting journeys to distant kingdoms,  The Hidden Prince by Tessa Afshar is an absolute must read for you.” (Full review here.)

Connect with Stephenia: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about A Daughter’s Courage with Misty M. Beller & a Review of Heirlooms by Sandra Byrd

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Misty M. Beller joins us for a chat about marketing, writing, fall family traditions, and her latest release A Daughter’s Courage. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

For today’s Pinch of the Past, we’re looking at the history of the man who made apples an American thing–the man best known as Johnny Appleseed. (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Angela Bell. “ If you’re a fan of women’s fiction and dual time narratives, you’re sure to agree that Heirlooms by Sandra Byrd is a beautiful bouquet of a book!” (Full review here.)

Connect with Misty: Website, Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Goodreads, BookBub, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about The Premonition at Withers Farm with Jaime Jo Wright & a Review of Above the Fold by Rachel Scott McDaniel

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Jaime Jo Wright joins us for a chat about creepy houses, startling historical medical treatments, and her latest release The Premonition at Withers Farm. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

Today’s Pinch of the Past  takes us to the Smoky Mountains of eastern Tennessee, to explore the history behind a little hidden gem called the House of the Fairies.  (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Angela Bell. “Above the Fold by Rachel Scott McDaniel was everything I’d hoped and more! If you enjoy quick-witted romances and a good gumshoe mystery, you’re sure to agree that Above the Fold is the bee’s knees!” (Full review here.)

Connect with Jaime: Website, Newsletter, Madlit Mentoring, Madlit Musing Podcast, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Instagram.

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A Bookchat about A Gem of Truth with Kimberley Woodhouse & a Review of The Number of Love by Rosanna M. White

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Kimberley Woodhouse joins us for a chat about researching the Grand Canyon, 1 Million Miles with Kim, and her latest novel A Gem of Truth. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

Today’s Pinch of the Past  is part 2 of the 1900 Paris Exposition. In this Pinch of the Past we will be wrapping up the Paris Exposition Series with a look at what critics of the day had to say about the expositions and some numbers regarding cost and attendance.  (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Christie. The Number of Love is a fantastic read! Rosanna M. White’s characters are unique and stick with the reader long after the last page. Looking forward to the next book in the series! (Full review here.)

You can connect with Christie on Instagram @writercbk219.

Links to connect with Kim

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2931393.Kimberley_Woodhouse

https://www.instagram.com/kimberleywoodhouse/

https://www.facebook.com/KimberleyWoodhouseAuthor/

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A Bookchat about Beneath the Bending Skies with Jane Kirkpatrick & a Review of The Red Canary by Rachel Scott McDaniel 

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Jane Kirkpatrick joins us for a chat about homesteading, historical research and her latest novel Beneath the Bending Skies. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

Today’s Pinch of the Past  is part 2 of the 1900 Paris Exposition. In this Pinch of the Past we will be looking at the different kinds of exhibits featured at the fair, including one very special exhibit from the United States and a truly unique exhibit that ended in tragedy. (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Angela Bell. If you enjoy murder mysteries and are fascinated by the Roaring Twenties, you’re sure to think The Red Canary by Rachel Scott McDaniel is the cat’s meow! (Full review here.)

You can connect with Angela at AuthorAngelaBell.com 

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A Bookchat about  Come Down Somewhere with Jennifer L. Wright & a Review of The Dress Shop on King Street by Ashley Clark

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Jennifer L. Wright joins us for a chat about WW2 in New Mexico, her life as an airforce pilot’s wife, and her latest release Come Down Somewhere. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

Today’s Pinch of the Past is part 1 of the 1900 Paris Exposition. The purpose of this event was to celebrate the achievements of the past century and look forward to the 20th century, and it featured exhibits from 40+ countries.  (Full post here.)

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Angela Bell. If you’re a fan of southern fiction, multigenerational stories, and intricately woven dual time narratives, The Dress Shop on King Street by Ashley Clark is a must read! You can connect with Angela at AuthorAngelaBell.com (Full review here.)

WEBSITE: www.jennwrightwrites.com

GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20861771.Jennifer_L_Wright

 FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/JenniferWrightLit

 INSTAGRAM @jennwright82

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A Book-chat about  Worthy of Legend with Roseanna M. White & a Review of Moondrop Miracle by Jennifer Lamont Leo

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Christy Award-winning author Roseanna M. White joins us for a chat about writing, time management, launching a line of princess books (WhiteCrown,) and her latest release Worthy of Legend. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book! (Enter here.)

Today’s Pinch of the Past is hosted by Liz Tolsma. Did you know that the famed Alamo Mission was built in 1718 and included up to 5 acres of land? 

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Angela Bell. If you love historical fiction, period dramas, or grew up admiring the Mary Kay lady with her pretty pink cosmetics, then you simply must try Moondrop Miracle by Jennifer Lamont Leo! You can connect with Angela at AuthorAngelaBell.com (View full review here.)

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Episode 38: Guest Tracie Peterson  and a Review of This Hallowed Ground by Donna E. Lane

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Tracie Peterson gave her life to Jesus at the age of six. She knew at an early age that God was calling her to ministry. Often called the “Queen of Historical Christian Fiction,” Tracie Peterson is an ECPA, CBA and USA Today best-selling author of more than 132 books, most of those historical. Join Tracie for a chat about her book BEYOND THE DESERT SANDS, book 2 in the Love on the Santa Fe series and don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!

Today’s Pinch of the Past once again visits a historic landmark in Darcy’s hometown. Over four hundred years of history, the St. Augustine Lighthouse has a fascinating history you will enjoy. (View full blog post here.)

We have a special guest sharing a review today! Naomi Craig, who we interviewed in Episode 37 (which you can listen to here,) gives 5 things you didn’t know about This Hallowed Ground by Donna E. Lane. (View full review here.)

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Episode 37: Guest Naomi Craig and a Review of Diamond in the Rough by Jen Turano

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Join KyLee and Darcy for a chat with author Naomi Craig– an avid reader, and pastor’s wife who loves reading and writing Biblical fiction. When she’s not serving in various areas at church or trying to stay on top of mountains of dishes, you’ll most likely find her enjoying a good book and a cup of coffee. Learn more about her latest release, Ezekiel’s Song here.

Pinch of the Past brings you the 3rd and final part of our Sears and Roebuck Catalogue series. In this part, we will look at different medicine available in the late 1800s. Ever heard of worm cakes, female pills, or Arsenic complexion wafers? Yikes. Read the article here as well as the additional content–customer feedback of the day. (Full article here.)

Our Bookworm Review brings you Jen Turano’s 2019 release Diamond in the Rough (American Heiresses Book #2). Take a look at Turano’s other gripping books here. (Full review here.)

Links: Connect with Naomi at NaomiCraig.com, Instagram.com/NaomiCraigAuthor, Facebook.com/groups/BiblicalFictionAficionados, and Bookbub.com/profile/Naomi-Craig

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Episode 36: Guest Parker J. Cole & a Review of Hope Between the Pages by Pepper Basham

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Interview: Our featured book today is A Chance for Genevieve. Parker J. Cole is an author, speaker, and radio host with an obsession with the Lord, Star Trek, K-dramas, anime, romance books, old movies, speculative fiction, and knitting. An on-and-off Mountain Dew and marshmallows addict, she writes to fill the void the sugar left behind. (Enter the giveaway for her book here.)

Pinch of the Past: Sears and Roebuck’s pt. 2 A selection of household goods from an 1897 Sear and Roebuck Catalogue provides a glimpse into rural American life in the 19th century. They sold medicines, groceries, hardware, building material, and household appliances like refrigerators.  (Read full article here.)

Book review: Hope Between the Pages by Pepper D. Basham If you’ve ever wished the Hallmark channel had produced Downton Abbey, this book is sure to be your cup of tea!  (Read full article here.)

Giveaway:

Links:

Connect with Parker at www.ParkerJCole.com and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, The Write Stuff Radio Show, Amazon, and Goodreads.

Mentions in the show:

Shout out to Hiedi Gray McGill

Christmas Wishes and Cowboy Wishes

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Episode 35: Guest Elizabeth Musser & a Review of  Lost in Darkness by Michelle Griep

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Interview: Our featured book today is By Way of the Moonlight. ELIZABETH MUSSER writes ‘entertainment with a soul’ from her writing chalet—tool shed—outside Lyon, France. Find more about Elizabeth and her novels at www.elizabethmusser.com and on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and her blog.

Pinch of the Past: A selection of household goods from an 1897 Sear and Roebuck Catalogue provides a glimpse into rural American life in the 19th century. They sold medicines, groceries, hardware, building material, and household appliances like refrigerators.  (Read full article here.)

Book Review: Lost in Darkness by Michelle Griep. Enchanting Regency-Era Gothic Romance Intertwined with Inspiration from Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.  (Read full article here.)

Giveaway:

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Special Episode: Story Fest 2022

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https://www.acfwstoryfest.com/

Our guest today is an award winning fiction and non fiction author, Cynthia Ruchti. She serves as Professional Relations Liaison for American Christian Fiction Writers, and shares a very special event on this episode.

Created with Christian Fiction Reader-Fans in mind: the 2022 ACFW Storyfest! Come be part of our inaugural year of hosting ACFW Storyfest (formerly the Christian Fiction Readers Retreat). It all takes place Thursday, September 8, 2022 afternoon-Saturday, September 10, 2022 at the Hyatt Regency at the Arch in St. Louis, Missouri. For more information go to www.ACFWStoryfest.com

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Episode 34: Lynn Austin and a Review of On the Cliffs of Foxglove Manor by Jaime Jo Wright

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Interview Lynn Austin shares the development of her story Long Way Home. In this gripping portrait of war and its aftermath from bestselling author Lynn, a young woman searches for the truth her childhood friend won’t discuss after returning from World War II, revealing a story of courage, friendship, and faith.

Pinch of the Past: Newspapers discovered that train wrecks fascinated their readers, and took to covering them in gory detail, even giving sensational names to individual accidents. One accident involving the deaths of 42 people after a car fell off a bridge and caught fire was called the “Angola Horror.” (Read full article here.)

Bookworm Review:  On the Cliffs of Foxglove Manor by Jaime Jo Wright is another great time split story from Wright with characters everyone can relate to—a man battling past scars through addiction and two women from different time periods trying to find their worth and handling that trauma in unhealthy ways.  (Read full article here.)

You can connect with Lynn at her website LynnAustin.org, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Goodreads.

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Episode 33: Guest Karen Witemeyer & a Review of The Sound of Diamonds by Rachelle Rea Cobb

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Karen Witemeyer shares about her latest release,  In Honor’s Defense, and she has been so kind to offer a GIVEAWAY of the complete set of Hanger’s Horsemen Series. Check out the giveaway page on our website Historical Bookworm dot com. You also find the giveaway link in the show notes for this episode. 

In this Pinch of the Past, we take a peek at train travel in the 1800s. With no shortage of first-class passengers clamoring for tickets, Pullman invented all sorts of specialty cars. Smoking cars, reading cars, cars for listening to music, or cars designed like parlors for relaxing. They featured carpeted floors, mirrors in gilded frames, marble and walnut washstands, colorfully frescoed ceilings, and silver-plated metal trappings. (Full post here.)

Book Review: If you enjoy well-researched historical fiction with plenty of danger, and enemies-to-lovers romance, pick up a copy of The Sound of Diamonds. This is the first book in the Steadfast Love Series, so if you find yourself hooked, there’s more to enjoy. (Full post here.)

Connect with Karen on her website, Goodreads, Facebook group The Posse, Bookbub, Amazon Follow and Newsletter Sigh-Up

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Episode 32: Guest Jody Hedlund & a Review of Shadows in the Mind’s Eye by Janyre Tromp

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Bestselling author Jody Hedlund shares about her Colorado Cowboys Series, her eventful summer, her latest writing ventures, and her many upcoming books! For your chance to win a copy of  To Tame a Cowboy, check out the giveaway page on our website Historical Bookworm dot com. You also find the giveaway link in the show notes for this episode. 

Today’s Pinch of the Past … started as a look at traditions in raising children and somehow morphed into the practices of children in relation to schools throughout history. (Full post here.)

Book Review: Shadows in the Mind by Janyre Tromp. If you’re in the mood for a realistic depiction of mid-century slice of life with a side helping of mystery, then Shadows in the Mind’s Eye is a great read for you! (Full post here.)

GIVE AWAY: To tame a Cowboy

You can connect with Jody at:

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Episode 31: Guest Karen Barnett & a Review of Where the Road Bends by Rachel Fordman

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Interview: Karen Barnett is the award-winning author of seven novels, including Ever Faithful, Where the Fire Falls, and The Road to Paradise; known collectively as The Vintage National Parks Novels. Before becoming a novelist, she worked as a ranger, naturalist, and outdoor educator at Mount Rainier National Park and Oregon’s Silver Falls State Park. For more on Karen and her amazing new release, When Stone Wings Fly check out her website at KarenBarnettBooks.com.

Pinch of the Past: Did you know the inventor and developer of this great nutty paste was also responsible for a famous cereal brand? He developed the supplement not as a snack food but as a health product? (Full post here.)

Bookworm Review: Where the Road Bends by Rachel Fordman. It’s been some time since I’ve read a historical romance book that was such a pleasure to read. I finished it in two days and I’m still thinking about the story and the characters. (Full review here.)

LinkGive away

Connect with Karen!

Website: https://karenbarnettbooks.com/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/karenbarnett

IG: https://www.instagram.com/karenbarnettauthor/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/KarenBarnettAuthor/

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Episode 30: Guest Jaime Jo Wright & a Review of When the Day Comes by Gabrielle Meyer

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Interview: Jaime Jo Wright is the winner of the Christy, Carol, Daphne du Maurier, and INSPY Awards. She’s also the PW (Publishers Weekly)and ECPA (Evangelical Christian Publishers Association)  bestselling author of three novellas. In this episode, Jaime shares about her latest novel, the steller spooky, The Souls of Lost Lake!

Our Pinch of the Past today features the story of the Castillo de San Marcos. In 1513, Ponce de Leon claimed the land he named Florida for Spain. It became an important holding to protect the Spanish ships bearing gold and silver from Central and South America back to Spain. As the French started encroaching on Florida, King Phillip II sent Pedro Menéndez in 1565 who founded the town of St. Augustine. (Read the full blogpost here)

Bookworm Review If you love the premise of time travel, enjoy books with a heroine of strong convictions, and are in the mood for a unique series, pick up When the Day Comes by Gabrielle Meyer. (read the full book review here.)

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Episode 29: Guest Ann H. Gabhart & a Review of Long Way Home

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Join us for a chat with Award-winning author, Ann H. Gabhart. Her first historical novel was published 1978 by Warner Books. Since then, she has published over thirty novels. Find out more at AnnHGabhart.com and discover her recent June release, When the Meadow Blooms.

Pinch of the Past: If you ever watched National Treasure 2 you probably know that Great Britain was rumored to be sympathetic to the Confederate States of America. Canada did not exist as a federated nation at the time but was under British rule. Even though Canadians largely apposed slavery–with Canada serving as a terminus for the Underground Railroad–there was talk in London that the Union might move against the Crown and invade Canada. (Full post here.)

For our Bookworm Review, Darcy shares her review of Long Way Home by Lynn Austin. If you enjoy stories of overcoming, of perseverance, and of people whose daily lives and walk with God invite you to reevaluate your own, pick up a copy of Long Way Home by Lynn Austin. (Full post here.)

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Episode 28: Guest Angela K. Couch and a review of The Souls of Lost Lake by Jaime Jo Wright

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Interview: Angela K. Couch is the winner of story contests, a semi-finalist in ACFW’s Genesis Contest, and a finalist in the International Digital Awards. As a passionate believer in Christ, her faith permeates the stories she tells. Her martial arts training, experience with horses, and appreciation for good romance sneak in there, as well. When not writing, she stays fit (and warm) by chasing after five munchkins. Join Anglea as she chats with us about her latest WW2 novel A Rose for the Resistance a part of the Heroines of WWII by Barbour.

Pinch of the Past: While we may not know the origin, April Fool’s Day’s popularity for hundreds of years indicates people love having an excuse to get a laugh at their friends’ expense. Here is a pinch of the history behind the holiday and some April Fool’s Day pranks via Television. (Full post here.)

Bookworm Review: If you love books by Erin Bartels, Michelle Griep, and Christina Suzann Nelson, you may enjoy this compelling suspense featuring two women from different time periods who face the shadows of their pasts to find their future. The Souls of Lost Lake by Jaime Jo Wright is a must-read. (Full post here.)

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Episode 27: Guest Michelle Shocklee and a review of The Spark of Love by Amanda Cabot

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Interview: Christy Awards finalist Michelle Shocklee shares about her latest release Count the Nights by Stars. She is the author of several historical novels, including Under the Tulip Tree, a Christy Awards finalist. Her work has been included in numerous Chicken Soup for the Soul books, magazines, and blogs. Married to her college sweetheart and the mother of two grown sons, she makes her home in Tennessee, not far from the historical sites she writes about.

Pinch of the past: Spring time poems by American poets Robert Frost, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Emily Dickinson, and Carl Sandburg.

Bookworm review: The Spark of Love (Mesquite Springs book#3) by Amanda Cabot. Cabot’s third book keeps the Mesquite Springs momentum going and ends the series with a satisfying story.

GIVEAWAY!

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Episode 26: Guest Amanda Cabot & a Review of Counterfeit Love by Crystal Caudill

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Join us for an interview with bestselling author Amanda Cabot. Her books have been honored with a starred review from Publishers Weekly and have been finalists for the ACFW Carol Award, the HOLT Medallion, and the Booksellers’ Best. In this episode, she shares with us about her latest release A Spark of Love.

Pinch of the Past: If you’re anything like me, about this time of year you start looking forward to the warmth and liveliness of spring. So I thought it would be fun to look at a few legends from ancient peoples of how the seasons came to be.

Book Review: If you’re looking for a book that takes you to the snowy streets of 1800s Cincinnati and the dangers of running from criminals–if you love stories of forbidden romance and themes of forgiveness and grace–you won’t want to pass over Counterfeit Love by Crystal Caudill (available on ebook, paperback, and audio.) This review was originally shared in  

Connect with Amanda here

Social Media Links

www.amandacabot.com

http://amandajoycabot.blogspot.com/

https://www.facebook.com/amanda.j.cabot

Buying Links

Amazon

BakerBookHouse

Barnes & Noble

Christian Book Distributors

Read a sample of Amanda’s work here.

Enter the Giveaway!

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Episode 25: Guest Crystal Caudill and a Book Review Never Leave Me by Jody Hedlund

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Announcements: Welcome to Season 2 of the Historical bookworm Show.

The winners of the End of the Year Giveaway are Angela B who chose Under The Bayou Moon by Valerie Fraser Luesse and the second is Susanne M. who chose A Midnight Dance by Joanna Davidson Politano.

Changes coming to the show.

Join the conversation at Historical Bookworm Listener Group on Facebook.

Become an influencer for Historical Bookworm just fill out our influencer form or shoot us a message on Facebook.

Bi-weekly giveaways are now open to everyone! Check out giveaway page here.

 And now for today’s interview 

Interview: Crystal Caudill is the author of “dangerously good historical romance,” with her work garnering awards from Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers. She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver, and when she isn’t writing, she can be found playing board games with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading other great books at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio. Have you read her debut novel Counterfit Love?

Pinch of the Past – Mail Order Bride Although the romantic literary device of a mail order bride may thrill readers of historical romance, the realism of this custom from 1600- to the early 1900s is not quite so romantic. Women typically responded to advertisements for mail-order brides more out of necessity, and even desperation, than actual romance. Many women answered the call to marry men in different regions to escape hardship, emigrate to another country, and sometimes to seek adventure.

 Historical Bookworm Review: Never Leave Me by Jody Hedlund.  If you’re in the mood for a time-traveling romance that will take you beyond the realms of reality, Never Leave Me should be at the top of your TBR queue. 

Listen to Jody’s interview featuring Come Back to Me on Episode 16 and a you can read our full review of Come Back to Me here.

Links

The Bride Ship Series by Jody Hedlund

Jody is a lead author for Sunrise Publishing with Susan May Warren, so we can expect three more books in that series. 

When I asked on our Historical Bookworm Listeners group on Facebook, Christy said she just finished A Bride for Keeps and A Bride in Store, both by Melissa Jagears.

If you’re looking for a box set A Bride for All Seasons: The Mail Order Bride Collection by Margaret Brownley, Robin Lee Hatcher, Mary Connealy, and Debra Clopton. is very good.

Mail Order Revenge by Angela K Couch is available on Kindle Unlimited. 

The first book I ever read that used a mail-order bride trope was One for the Pot by Louise L’aMour.

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Announcement & Giveaway

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As 2021 comes to an end, I feel especially grateful for the Historical Bookworm Show. When we started out, there were a lot of unknowns, and it required some faith to start this show from the ground up. 

Thank you, listeners, for your time and support of the authors we have on the show. And, a special thanks to all the authors who have given of their time and hearts to be here. 

We wanted to let you all know we will be taking the months of January and February off for personal reasons. Our plan is to be back in March with new books and more wonderful authors.

To celebrate a successful year, we are giving away free books! That’s right, we are running a giveaway for the month of January. Three winners will each get to choose a book that we featured on the Historical Bookworm Show in 2021.

Thank you again for listening!

In the words of Charles Dickens,  “…may the New Year be a happy one to you, happy to many more whose happiness depends on you!”

― KyLee & Darcy

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Ep 23: Guest Amanda Cox and a Review of Under The Texas Mistletoe by Karen Witemeyer.

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Join us for a chat with Christi Award winning Author Amanda Cox as she shares how The Secret Keepers of the Old Depot Grocery came to be. 

In our Pinch of the Past we take a peek at New Years traditions and where they originated from. From the 12 Grapes of to Luck in Spain to the burning of scarecrows in Eucadore and wassailing in the colonial period.

Bookworm Review: If you’re in the mood for sweet love stories with beautifully described countryside, and themes that put one in the mood for Christmas, you won’t want to miss Under The Texas Mistletoe by Karen Witemeyer. 

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Ep. 23: Guest Karen Witemeyer & a Review of As Dawn Breaks by Kate Breslin

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For those who love to smile as they read, today’s guest offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Karen Witemeyer chats with us about her 3-in-1 Christmas novella collection Under The Texas Mistletoe.

On our Pinch of the Past we’re looking at The Substitute Guest written by Grace Livingston Hill in 1936 to see how she described an ideal Christmas dinner.

Fans of romantic historicals with superbly researched detail and endearing characters will not want to miss Kate Breslin’s As Dawn Breaks.

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Episode 22: Guest Katherine Reay & a Review of A Midnight Dance by Joanna Davidson Politano

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Interview: Our guest today is a national bestselling and award-winning author Katherine Reay. Join us for a chat about her latest release The London House.

Pinch of the Past: Do you enjoy a good spy thriller? I know I do, movie or book. We often see spy thrillers set in a modern-day, Cold War, and both World Wars. For this Pinch of the Past, we are going to look even further back into history, all the way back to the Revolutionary War. Did you know that there were female spies for George Washington? Yep. One, in particular, is referred to so briefly in code that she is known simply as Agent 355.

Our Bookworm Review features A Midnight Dance by Joanna Davidson Politano. We highly recommend this book to readers who are in the mood for a charming romance and a story that pulls apart a preconceived life and fills it with God’s better plan. 

Links: 

Full blog posts for our Pinch of the Past A Revolutionary War Female Spy and our Bookworm Review of A Midnight Dance by Joanna Davidson Politano. 

To subscribe to our newsletter and be entered to win all book giveaways follow this link here.

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Episode 21: Guest Joanna Davidson Politano & a Review of The Secret Keepers of Old Depot Grocery

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Join us and guest Joanna Davidson Politano as she chats about her latest novel A Midnight Dance. She loves tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives and is eager to hear anyone’s story. She lives with her husband and their kids in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan.

Last week’s Pinch of the Past was so fun we split it into two segments. Enjoy learning about the origins of Red Velvet Cake and a vegetarian dish made of necessity during WWII.

On our Bookworm Review, we feature The Secret Keepers of Old Depot Grocery by Amanda Cox. If you’re seeking a redeeming story involving the unbreakable, but sometimes fragile relationships between mothers and daughters, The Secret Keepers of Old Depot Grocery is a must read. You can find the entire written review here.

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Episode 20: Guest Liz Tolzma & a Bookworm Review of A Deep Divide

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Join WW2 novelist and podcast host Liz Tolzma as she talks about her latest release A Picture of Hope, book two in the Heroines of WWII Series. Liz is also the host of the Christian Historical Fiction Talk–a weekly podcast featuring author chats, industry news, and discussions of what you’re reading.

On our Pinch of the Past we look at part 1 of Historical Foods We Enjoy Today. Do you enjoy Jello and sandwiches? Not together, of course! Well, here is a little history about the two. Would you believe one of these dishes first became popular in the US because of a gambling addiction?

If you’re in the mood for a sweet romantic suspense with an unforgettable storyline, then you don’t want to miss A Deep Divide  (Secrets of the Canyon Book #1) by Kimberly Woodhouse.

Read our full Bookworm Review of  A Deep Divide by Kimberly Woodhouse

Join our newsletter and be automatically entered to win Christian historical fiction books.

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Episode 19: Guest Patricia Raybon & A Review of The Lines Between Us

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Patricia Raybon is a former Sunday Magazine editor at The Denver Post, a former associate professor of journalism at the University of Colorado at Boulder, and a regular contributor to Our Daily Bread Ministries and the DaySpring (in)courage blog. Join us for a chat with her about her debut novel  All that is Secret book 1 of the Annalee Spain Mystery series.

In this segment of the Pinch of the Past, we talk about the history of Chess, Backgammon, and Go. Most of the games that have survived for centuries involve intense strategy and lots of abstract thinking. I’m not sure what exactly that indicates–maybe they were born of long winters of boredom. Or maybe people just enjoy a chance to outsmart their friends.

If you enjoy historical fiction based on a different aspect of World War II with notes of mystery, moral questions, and superb characterization, add The Lines Between Us by Amy Lynn Green to your fall reading list. Read the review here.

Links:

Connect with Patricia on her  website  Goodreads Twitter & Instagram

Link to GoodReads review

Link for Roseanna White’s Book The Number of Love

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Episode 18: Guest Lori Benton & a Review of Carved in Stone

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Join guest Lori Benton for a chat about her latest release Shiloh Book 2 of the Kindred Series. Giveaway Link here!

We look at quotes from Jane Austin, Mark Twain, and Fredrick Douglas on our Pinch of the Past. Full article here.

In the mood for a charming historical romance mixed with danger then Carved in Stone by Elizabeth Camden should be on the top of your to be read pile! Full review here.

 

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Episode 17: Guest Amy Green & a Review of The Barrister and the Letter of Marque

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Join us for a chat with author and speaker Amy Green as she shares about writing her latest WWII novel, The Lines Between Us.

On a Pinch of the Past we look back a few thousand years to the beginning of makeup as we know it. From ancient Egypt to Regency Era England, and to turn of the century America, you’ll enjoy these tidbits of history surrounding cosmetics.

Bookworm Review If you’re in the mood for a riveting courtroom drama that extends beyond the court, The Barrister and the Letter of Marque by Todd M. Johnson will have you searching for ways to prove the truth alongside the barrister. 

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Episode 16: Guest Jody Hedlund & a Review of In A Far Off Land

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Jody is the bestselling author of over 30 historical novels for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards, including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Awards. She shares about her new time travel novel Come Back to Me, her love of cats, and the fun of writing. Learn more about her at her website JodyHedlund.com/ and her ReaderRoom Facebook group.

We share prolific hymn writers in our Pinch of the Past. A look at the reformer Martin Luther, the “The Godfather of English Hymnody” Isaac Watts, and blind teacher and lobbyist Fanny Crosby.

Bookworm Review: If you love historical fiction that will keep you crying both happy and sad tears, filled with intrigue, mystery and suspense then In A Far-Off Land by Stephanie Landsem is the perfect book for you.

We are giving away a copy of Come Back to Me.

Giveaway began on August 15, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 27, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.


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Episode 15: Guest Ann H. Gabhart & a Book Review of Faith’s Mountain Home

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Join us for an interview with Ann H. Gabhart. Her first historical novel was published 1978 by Warner Books. Since then, she has published over thirty novels, including her latest Along a Storied Trail.

Pinch of the Past … A look at the significance of teacher apples, the first public school in America, and quotes be historical teachers that may surprise you. 

Bookworm Review … Faith’s Mountain Home by Misty M. Beller. If you enjoy a story about second chances–with plenty of the adventures a Montana wilderness can throw at you–definitely pick up a copy of Faith’s Mountain Home.

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Episode 14: Guest Lisa T. Bergren & a Review of The Ice Swan

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Interview: Lisa T. Bergren is the author of over sixty books with a combined three million+ books sold. Join us as she chats about her second edition Begotten book 1 of The Gifted Series.

On today’s Pinch of the Past eighteenth century coinage we are looking a the British coins, The Piece of Eight, techniques of theft. Money and currency are such an intricate part of everyday life. I hope this peek at the currency of years past has made the people who walked in the 1700s seem a little more human than before. If you enjoyed it, be sure to check out the Townsends YouTube channel.

Review: If you’re looking for a sweet, clean read with two very different characters who learn to adapt to an ever changing world then The Ice Swan by J’nell Ciesielski is for you.

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Episode 13: Guest Stephanie Landsem & Review of Chasing Shadows

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Author Stephanie Landsem talks about Depression-era Hollywood and her new book In a Far Off Land. 

For our Pinch of the Past we are looking at another wonderful fairy tale–Rapunzel. From ancient Persia, to Italy, and then Germany this iconic fairytale is far from Disney’s Tangles, but oh the fun of history. You don’t want to miss this one.

Bookworm Review: If you’re in the mood for a deep, captivating, and educating story with themes of love, forgiveness, and restoration–and a wonderful WWII story–you won’t want to miss Chasing Shadows by Lynn Austin.

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Episode 12: Guest Misty M. Beller & a Review of The Curator’s Daughter

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Interview: Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love. She shares her love for potato casserole (aka shepherd’s pie,) the mountains, and her novel Courage in the Mountain Wilderness (which is currently free on Kindle Unlimited.)

Pinch of the Past: With July 4th, right around the corner in the US I thought it would be fun to take a look at some of the American political writings from before 1776, showing how the thought of the day finally grew into Jefferson’s monumental document. 

Bookworm Review: The Curator’s Daughter by Melanie Dobson. If you love stories that delve into World War II through the eyes of a German SS officer’s wife, if you find inspiration in the lost and found pieces of people’s lives and how God knits them back together, The Curator’s Daughter is the book for you.

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Episode 11: Guest Carolyn Miller and a Review of Come Back to Me

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Featured Author: Carolyn Miller is a bestselling and award-winning author of both Regency and contemporary inspirational romance. She lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia with her husband and four children. Join us for a chat about her latest release Dusk’s Darkest Dawn Book 1 in the new Regency Wallflowers series. You can find out more about Carolyn at CarolynMillerAuthor.com

Pinch of the Past: Seattle in the 1900s was rife with crime. From dirty politicians and brothels to drug abuse and Shanghaiing, this city was not for the weak. In this pinch of the past we talk a little about regular people who gave to others to help the down trodden of this big old city.

Bookworm Review: Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of over 30 historical novels for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards. Her first-time travel novel Come Back to Me is a great read and start to her Waters of Time Series. Full of good pacing and drama with lots of ups and downs that will leave a reader turning pages well into the night. Find out more about Jody at her website JodyHedlund.com. You can also find the book trailer for Come Back to Me by clicking HERE.

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Episode 10: Guest Sarah Loudin Thomas & Review of A Dance in Donegal

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Sarah Loudin Thomas shares about her latest release The Right Kind of Fool and what went into writing about a deaf boy who discoveres a dead body in the 1930s.

Pinch of the Past features trends of the 1950s. Want to know the secret of the iconic Hollywood beauties of that era? You won’t believe what we found!

Bookworm Review: If you’re in the mood for a sweet Irish love story with beautifully described countryside, fun Gaelic colloquialisms, and the theme of how God restores one woman’s reputation–thereby cementing her place and call in Ireland–you won’t want to miss A Dance in Donegal by Jennifer Deibel

Links to mentions in the show:

 Historical Fiction Unpacked with Alison Treat

Time to Cut the Grass! (in the cemetery) by Sarah Loudin Thomas

Darcy’s post on instagram Cemetary

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Episode 9: Guest Tessa Afshar and a Review of Dreams of Savannah

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Join us for a chat with historical biblical fiction author Tessa Afshar as she talks about her experience as a writer, reader, and child of God. She shares about her latest release Jewel of the Nile and the unique characters of this book. You can find more about Tessa and her latest release at TessaAfshar.com

Pinch of the Past …We enjoy the history of Cinderella, from its beginnings in Ancient Greece to China and finally the Disney version. You won’t want to miss these sweet glimps of history before the fairy godmother said, “bibbity bobbity boo.”

Bookworm Review …If you enjoy historical adventures that force the characters to grow and aren’t afraid to tackle some sticky questions, along with providing multiple romance threads, you need to find a copy of Roseanna M. White’s Dreams of Savannah.

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Episode 8: Guest Roseanna M. White & a Review of Destined for You

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Join us for a chat with bestselling author, cover designer, and editor Roseanna M. White as she shares her experience as a cover designer, editor, writer, and her latest novel The Nature of a Lady (book one of the Secrets of the Isles series.)

Ever hear of Ice-brook temper? What about a childe  (child with an “e”?) For a snippet of medieval terminology listen to this segment of a Pinch of the Past.

On the Bookworm Review we take a look at Destined for You the latest release by Tracie Peterson. If you enjoy a Christian novel with strong Biblical themes, sweet romance, a dab of suspense, and a historical setting, you won’t want to miss Destined for You, Book 1 in Tracie Peterson’s Ladies of the Lake Series.

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Episode 7: Guest Kimberly A. Duffy & Review of Under the Bayou Moon

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Join us for a chat with Kimberly A. Duffy as she shares about her latest release Tapestry of Light, pivotal scenes in the book, and her love of India. 

In our Pinch of the Past segment we look at different occupations of the 1800s including some quaint vendor cries that might stick with you the next time you eat a sweet potato.

For our Bookworm Review, we talk about Under the Bayou Moon by Valerie Fraser Luesse.

Other links mentioned on the show:

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Episode 6: Guest Elizabeth Camden & a Review of Braced for Love

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Join us for a chat with librarian and award-winning writer, Elizabeth Camden as she shares her wisdom about writing touching love stories, the worth of failure, and the inspiration behind her latest release The Prince of Spies. Find out more about Elizabeth on her website ElizabethCamden.com. If you like historical tidbits and fun vintage photographs, follow Elizabeth on her Facebook page Author Elizabeth Camden. 

On the Pinch of the Past we explore the odd and humorous slang employed by Tom Arleth, a secondary character in Grace Livingston Hill’s 1932 edition of Happiness Hill. This crackerjack of a character uses terms right from the era in which the book was written.

Our Bookworm Review features Mary Connealy’s latest release, Braced for Love. If you enjoy reading clean, western romance with a little danger, family values, and a marriage of convenience, you won’t want to miss Braced for Love, book 1 in Mary Connealy’s Brothers in Arms Series.

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Episode 5: Guest Melanie Dobson & a Review of All Through the Night

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Join us for a chat with award-winning author, Melanie Dobson. You’ll enjoy hearing this delightful historical and time-slip author share about her experience with adoption, her latest release, and more. Find out more about Melanie and her latest release, The Curator’s Daughter, on her website MelanieDobson.com

A Pinch of the Past presents a few interesting historical tidbits about a general, queen, wrestler turned president, and a female sniper. You just never know what you’ll find when you look into history beyond what we read in textbooks.

Our Bookworm Review brings you Tara Johnson’s January release, All Through the Night. You can find our interview with Tara on episode 3 of the Historical Bookworm Show. For more on Tara, go to her website TaraJohnsonStories.com

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Episode 4: Guest Jocelyn Green and a Review of Tidewater Bride

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Join us for a chat with Christy Award-winning author, Jocelyn Green. You’ll enjoy getting to know this ordinary, tea-drinking, scrabble-playing mom as we discuss historical World Fair surprises and how she weaves elements from her own life into her novels to inspire faith and courage. Find out more at jocelyngreen.com and discover her recent February release, Shadows of the White City, Book two in The Windy City Saga Series.

Since this episode airs during spring break, a Pinch of the Past presents some interesting tidbits about this time of year, from the Mayans to 1938 Fort Lauderdale mayhem. Plus, a word of warning: After this episode, you might find yourself looking for an excuse to barbeque!

Our Bookworm Review brings you bestselling author Laura Frantz’s January release, Tidewater Bride. Take a look at all eleven of Laura’s 18th century historical novels at laurafrantz.net. 

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Episode 3: Guest Tara Johnson and a Review of Boundless

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Join us for an interview with the delightful Tara Johnson as she shares her beautiful gift of story in her sweet southern way. Tara says history is crammed full of fascinating characters—flawed, wounded humans battling their demons with vibrant determination. You’ll find her characters reflect your own struggles, wounds, and needs—and her stories ever remind us to Whom we need turn for healing. Find Tara at TaraJohnson.com and discover her newest novel, All Through the Night, released in January. It is her third Civil War novel.

A Pinch of the Past introduces crazy 19th century clothing terms and Victorian slang. From unwhisperables and shadbellies to gigglemugs and umble-cum-stumble, you’ll find a fun word to add to your historical vocabulary. 

Our Bookworm Review brings you Tamara Leigh’s 2021 medieval release, Boundless, book six of her “Age of Conquest” series. Explore the rest of Tamara’s books at TamaraLeigh.com 

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Ep. 2: Guest Michelle Griep and a Review of Veiled in Smoke

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Join KyLee and Kendy for a chat with author Michelle Griep, professing Anglophile and Sci-Fi geek. It is open season as we discuss dogs, homeschooling, castles, and even where she got her story idea for her latest book. If you haven’t read one of Michelle’s books, you are missing out. Her love of all things England and unique authorial voice infuse every tale she weaves. Be sure to check out her revealing website at MichelleGriep.com and then jump over to pick up her newest release, The Thief of Blackfriars Lane HERE.

Pinch of the Past brings you surprising 19th century amusements like the velocipede (don’t you just love to say that?), ratting, roller skating, and courting. Speaking of courting, CLICK HERE for a movie clip from Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, and you’ll understand what we’re talking about! 

Our Bookworm Review brings you Jocelyn Green’s fiery 2020 release, Veiled in Smoke, first in the “Windy City Saga” series. Book Two, Shadows of the White City just released this month. Take a look at Jocelyn’s other gripping books about faith and courage at JocelynGreen.com.

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Episode 1: Guest Sarah Sundin and a Review of Mountain Laurel

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Join us for an interview with Sarah Sundin, writer extraordinaire of World War II drama, daring, and romance. She discusses her latest release and what she’s discovered along her journey in researching World War II. You won’t want to miss this delightful, personal glimpse into our guest as Sarah sheds her author cap for real-life tales. You may be quite surprised! Check out Sarah’s website, Sarahsundin.com for all things Sarah–books, speaker information, maps, and more! And don’t forget to pick up her brand new release, When Twilight Breaks right HERE!

A Pinch of the Past enlightens you with the amazing origins of a myriad of wedding-related customs, like the Best Man, wedding rings, honeymoons, and more. 

Our Bookworm Review brings you Lori Benton’s fabulous 2020 release of Mountain Laurel, Book One of the Kindred series. Book Two, Shiloh, will be available in October of this year. Find Mountain Laurel HERE. And check out the rest of this author’s incredible books about frontier faith and fiction at LoriBenton.com.

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Review: The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater by Jamie Jo Wright

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THE BOOK

It promises beauty but steals life instead. Will the ghosts of Barlowe Theater entomb them all?

Barlowe Theater stole the life of Greta Mercy’s eldest brother during its construction. Now in 1915, the completed theater appears every bit as deadly. When Greta’s younger brother goes missing after breaking into the building, Greta engages the assistance of a local police officer to help her unveil the already ghostly secrets of the theater. But when help comes from an unlikely source, Greta decides that to save her family she must uncover the evil that haunts the theater and put its threat to rest.

Decades later, Kit Boyd’s best friend vanishes during a ghost walk at the Barlowe Theater, and old stories of mysterious disappearances and ghoulish happenings are revived. Then television ghost-hunting host and skeptic Evan Fisher joins Kit in the quest to identify the truth behind the theater’s history. Kit reluctantly agrees to work with him in hopes of finding her missing friend. As the theater’s curse unravels Kit’s life, she is determined to put an end to the evil that has marked the theater and their hometown for the last century.

THE REVIEW

Hello everyone who is listening, my name is Katie and I’m from Paperbacks and Ponytails on YouTube. Today I’m sharing my thoughts on The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater by Jaime Jo Wright, and again thank you to Baker Publishing for sending me a copy of this book to read and share my thoughts with you.

I said in my written review that this book was a can’t put down, but shouldn’t be read at night thrilling read from the queen of creepy goodness.

In this book, we are following dual timelines that are connected through family secrets, mystery, and intrigue. In the modern timeline, we are following Kit and her best friend Madison–who wants to save the Barlowe Theater from the clutches of her grandfather who wants to tear it down. So Madison hires a ghost-hunting TV show to bring publicity to the theater. But soon things get turned upside down and Madison is discovered missing. Ghost-hunting skeptic Evan and Kit must work together to uncover what happened.

In the past timeline during the early 1900s, we follow Greta who is from the poorest part of town. She is friends with a few of the upper crust of society. Her friends take her to the Barlowe Theater which is newly built. And during the show at the theater Greta witnesses a baby being thrown from the balcony by a woman in white. But there is no baby to be found and she is presumed to be insane. Along with money troubles, her older brother is killed during the construction of the Theater, and now another brother goes missing with his friends in the Barlowe Theater. These boys are never seen coming back out. What mysteries lie in wait at Barlowe Theater?

 I loved this new book by Jaime Jo! It was the perfect amount of creepy and entertaining fun. I really loved both timelines. The historical timeline is usually my favorite in dual-timeline books, which is the case in this book. I was so invested in the characters and what was going to happen to them. I loved both Greta and Kit and couldn’t wait to turn the next page. I dropped everything else to read this book. I mentioned that this book shouldn’t be read at night, it’s not over the top creepy but when you’re reading it at 1 am and you get to the point in a book where it’s a dark and creepy atmosphere and something grabs a character?

You know it’s time to either read quickly or go to bed and wait until morning to finish. It was a five-star, compelling, and highly entertaining read that kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. A must read for historical mystery lovers.

Thank you to the Historical Bookworm Show for having me on their podcast to talk about The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater by Jaime Jo Wright.

THE AUTHOR

Jaime Jo Wright (JaimeWrightBooks.com) is the author of ten novels, including Christy Award and Daphne du Maurier Award-winner The House on Foster Hill and Carol Award winner The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond. She’s also a two-time Christy Award finalist, as well as the ECPA bestselling author of The Vanishing at Castle Moreau and two Publishers Weekly bestselling novellas. Jaime lives in Wisconsin with her family and felines.

Disclaimer: The publisher offered a complimentary copy of this book. The review was given freely, without payment. All views expressed are only the honest opinion of a member of the Historical Bookworm Review Team.