Roseanna joins us for a chat about Christmas traditions, the joys of email, completing her chemo treatments, and her latest release Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!
About the author
Roseanna M. White 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. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary.
Michelle Greip joins us for a chat about gardening under duress, being present for loved ones while maintaining a career, the history of Egyptology, and her latest release Of Gold and Shadows. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!
About the Author
Michelle Griephas been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She is a Christy Award-winning author of historical romances that both intrigue and evoke a smile. She’s an Anglophile at heart, and you’ll most often find her partaking of a proper cream tea while scheming up her next novel . . . but it’s probably easier to find her at MichelleGriep.com or on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
Last time we spoke, you were settling into the country life of gardening and chicken raising, including protecting them from an offending armadillo.
Did you ever have any luck with gardening and did the armadillo ever leave?
If you had a garden party full of fictional characters, who would you invite?
You are a busy lady with a professional author career and personal life–including twin grandchildren in memory serves me correctly.
How do you balance writing with being present for your loved ones?
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?
The shadows hold secrets darker than they ever imagined. . . .
In 1888 Victorian England, Ami Dalton navigates a clandestine dual life. By day, she strives to establish herself as a respected Egyptologist, overcoming the gender biases that permeate academia. But with a heart for saving black-market artifacts from falling into the wrong hands, she is most often disguised as her alter ego, the Shadow Broker.
After eight years in India, Oxford’s most eligible bachelor, Edmund Price, has come out of the shadows to run for Parliament and is in search of an Egyptologist to value a newly acquired collection. Expecting a renowned Oxford professor, Edmund instead finds himself entangled with Ami, the professor’s determined daughter. As they delve into the treasures, their connection deepens, but trouble emerges when a golden griffin–rumored to bear the curse of Amentuk–surfaces, and they’re left to wonder if the curse really is at play, or if something more nefarious is hiding among the shadows. . . .
So we have a heroine in Victorian England with a secret identity who is struggling to establish herself as an Egyptologist by day and preserving black market relics by night. In steps a handsome hero running for Parliament, and together they encounter a cruse, ruffians, and treasures. Sounds like a typical Michelle Griep book. 🙂
I’m intrigued by this Egyptologist angle. According to Britannica Encyclopedia, Egyptology is “the study of pharaonic Egypt, spanning the period c. 4500 bce to ce 641. Egyptology began … [with the scholars] accompanying Napoleon Bonaparte’s invasion of Egypt (1798–1801.) Fast forward nearly 100 years, and we have Ami and Edmond.
What kinds of things did they encounter in the book that are historically accurate to the time?
How did you balance the idea of a curse with a Biblical worldview?
Curses will be lifted –
What, of all the romantic couples you’ve written, make Edmund and Ami unique?
What’s next for your writing?
Listeners, Michell is offering a paperback copy of this novel, Of Gold and Shadows. 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.
Carrie Turansky joins us for a chat about traveling to England, writing split-time novels, how themes of one’s life often come through in one’s writing, and her latest release A Token of Love. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!
J’nell Ciesielski joins us for a chat about traveling to Scotland, writers/books that inspire her, the elements of a beautiful romance, and her latest release The Winged Tiara, “a sparkling story filled with her signature snappy dialogue and vivid atmosphere that will keep you reading late into the night to see what happens next.” Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!
When not writing, Karen enjoys photography, hiking, public speaking, and decorating crazy birthday cakes. She lives in Oregon with her family. Karen has joined us before to discuss her novel, When Stone Wings Fly, and today we will be looking at another dual-timeline National Parks novel, Where the Trees Touch the Sky. But let’s start with something fun.
Patricia Raybon joins us for a chat about writing a story set in historical Denver, writing a Black American woman in the 1920s, and her latest release Truth Be Told. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!
Nicole M. Miller joins us for a chat about Arabian horses, living in southwest Washington, farm life, and her latest release Until Our Time Comes. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!
Ann H. Gabhart joins us for a chat about book recommendations, balancing writing with family life, mission schools, historical research, and her latest release The Song of Sourwood Mountain. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!
Grace Hitchcock joins us for a chat about her favorite time periods in history, favorite foods, writing heroes and heroines, and her latest release book. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!
Janyre Tromp joins KyLee for a chat about God’s faithfulness, snacking and reading, missionaries in WW 2, and her latest release Darkness Calls the Tiger. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!
Patti Stockdale joins us to chat about co-writing with award-winning author Jody Hedlund, historical settings, writing for the Lord, and her latest release His Treasured Bride. Don’t forget to enter to win a copy of this great book!
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.
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!
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!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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 Clubby 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.)
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 releaseThe 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?
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.
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.)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.)
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.)
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.)
“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.)
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.
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 Daughterby 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.)
Julie Klassen joins us for a chat about regency England, Jane Austen Easter eggs, and her latest releaseSisters 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.)
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.)
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 Somewhereby Jennifer L. Wright should be your next read.” (Full review here.)
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.)
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 Princeby Tessa Afshar is an absolute must read for you.” (Full review here.)
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’sPinch 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’sBookworm Reviewis 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.)
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’sPinch 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.)
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’sPinch 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 Loveis 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.
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’sPinch 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.)
Jennifer L. Wrightjoins 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.)
Christy Award-winning authorRoseanna M. Whitejoins 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 Miracleby Jennifer Lamont Leo! You can connect with Angela at AuthorAngelaBell.com (View full review here.)
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!
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.
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.)
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
InterviewLynn Austin shares the development of her storyLong 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.)
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.)
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)
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.
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 novelA Rose for the Resistance a part of the Heroines of WWII by Barbour.
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.
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 releaseA Spark of Love.
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!”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 missA Deep Divide (Secrets of the Canyon Book #1) by Kimberly Woodhouse.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Homeby 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.
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.
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.
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 Daughterby 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.
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 DawnBook 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.
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
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 Nileand 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.
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.
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.
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 releaseThe 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.
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
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.
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
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 LaneHERE.
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.
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 LaurelHERE. And check out the rest of this author’s incredible books about frontier faith and fiction at LoriBenton.com.
The Caribou Mountain in Idaho is a serene destination, but behind the snow caps and rocky faces, a historical story to match the name. I ran across Jesse (Cariboo Jack) Fairchild when researching book 1 of my Outlaw Hearts series. Cariboo Mountain is, in fact, the scene of a crime in that story.
