Author Interviews – Historical Bookworm

March 29, 2026March 29, 2026

Episode 124 The Royal Artisan — Guest: Tessa Afshar

About the Author

Tessa Afshar’s award‑winning novels have appeared on Publishers Weekly and CBA bestseller lists and have been translated into thirteen languages. A recipient of the ECPA Bronze Milestone Award, the Christy Award, the INSPY Award, and the ECPA Christian Book Award for her Bible study The Way Home, Tessa holds a Master of Divinity from Yale, where she served as co‑chair of the Evangelical Fellowship.

Born in the Middle East to a nominally Muslim family, Tessa came to faith in Christ in her twenties. She is a devoted wife, a self‑proclaimed mediocre gardener, and an enthusiastic cook of biblical recipes.

Questions:

Let’s start with something fun. Would you rather read a book series out of order, or watch the movie adaptation before reading the book?
What practices help keep you grounded when life gets crazy?
Do you keep a journal? If so, what journaling practices work for you? If not, what reflective practices do you use instead?
Is there anything especially meaningful you haven’t shared in other interviews—perhaps something God has laid on your heart that you’d like to share with readers?

About the Book

Sazana of Persia creates exquisite pottery that graces Susa’s finest tables, but her master, Lord Haman, does not know her secret: Sazana is one of the Jews he has vowed to eradicate. When Haman discovers her true identity, he forces her into indentured servitude. But at Haman’s sudden downfall, Queen Esther becomes the new master of the pottery workshop, restoring Sazana to her rightful place.

Yet her troubles are not over. Haman’s sons are enraged by his death, and the queen assigns one of her men to root out any threats. Sazana is shocked to discover that the queen’s agent is Jadon—the man who once left her heart in ruins. But danger still lurks, and when Sazana and Jadon become entangled in the hunt for an ancient artifact, far more than their hearts and lives depends on the success of their mission.

A story of intrigue, romance, and faith set within Queen Esther’s royal domain—perfect for fans of ancient history, The Chosen, House of David, Francine Rivers, and Angela Hunt.

Questions

Your novel is set during the Persian period when Esther is queen. How did you research the historical and cultural details of Susa to create an authentic backdrop, and what discoveries surprised you most?
Your book blends biblical events with romantic and suspenseful plotting. What challenges did you face in balancing faithfulness to the source material with crafting an engaging fictional narrative that includes mystery?
What do you hope readers take away from this blend of biblical history, romance, and intrigue?
What’s next for your writing?
Tessa, where can listeners learn more about you?

You can connect with Tessa on her Newsletter and on Amazon, Facebook, and Instagram.

March 18, 2026March 29, 2026

Episode 123: Romance in the Midst of Disaster with Kelly Goshorn

Kelly Goshorn is an old-fashioned girl at heart who loves Jesus, her family, and all things historical. A native Virginian, she developed a deep love for history, exploring battlefields and museums, which eventually led her to write inspirational historical romance. After earning degrees in social studies, education, and history, Kelly spent nearly two decades as a licensed childcare provider before returning to writing – a passion sparked by her youngest son. Her debut novel, A Love Restored, was published by Pelican Book Group in 2018, and her nonfiction piece, “Beautiful Words,” appeared in the Spoken Moments anthology. She lives in the foothills of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains with her husband of 30+ years, Mike. They enjoy BBC period dramas, board games, and spoiling her Corgi, Levi.

You’ve described yourself as, “An old-fashioned girl trapped in the 21^st century. How has that shaped your passion for historical fiction?

March 9, 2026March 29, 2026

Episode 122: The American Revolution and Family Bonds with Laura Frantz

Award-winning, bestselling author Laura Frantz is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century, and writes her manuscripts in longhand first. Her stories often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. She is a direct descendant of George Hume, Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715, settled in Virginia, and is credited with teaching George Washington surveying. Proud of her heritage, she is also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

December 29, 2025December 29, 2025

Crossover Episode with the Lit Ladies Podcast

Today we have the pleasure of sharing an episode from one of our favorite podcasts, the Lit Ladies Podcast. Here is more about their show:

We are three writers and moms exploring how to live out our faith in our literary lives. We span the country—from the coasts to the Midwest—and with different stages of life, careers, and favorite genres, we are sure to cover the literary landscape. In every episode, we’ll discuss books we love, reading life, and writing craft, using the Bible as our guide for beauty, goodness, and truth. New episodes drop every other Friday!

December 29, 2025December 29, 2025

Holiday Treats, Jane Austen, and a Gothic Regency Mystery with Julie Klassen

In this episode, KyLee and Darcy share a few holiday highlights, then KyLee sits down with author Julie Klassen to talk about research, faith, and her latest Regency release.

Key takeaways

Holiday traditions can be simple, and still feel special.
Teachers and read-aloud stories can shape a reader and a writer for life.
Julie Klassen weaves themes of grace, forgiveness, and second chances into her fiction.
Real places and local legends can add weight and texture to historical novels.
Whispers at Painswick Court blends romance with gothic atmosphere and a murder plot.
Holiday baking, hot chocolate, and an Instagram invite
A Bookworm Review of The Lost Girl of Astor Street, Stephanie Morrill

KyLee: Today I will be talking with Julie Klassen. Darcy will not be with us because she’s gone to spend some time with her family.

November 15, 2025December 29, 2025

Episode 119 | Jewels of Kalispell — Behind the Pages

Today we are joined by two guests to chat about the latest book they have co-written, An Unexpected Grace Book 3 in the Jewels of Kalispell series. We’ve visited with both of them individually before, and we’re so excited to have them on together today.

November 11, 2025December 29, 2025

Episode 118 To Kiss a Knight: A Regency Romp with Grace Hitchcock

Grace Hitchcock is the author of multiple historical novels and novellas. She holds a Masters in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in History. Grace lives near New Orleans on a hobby farm with her husband, Dakota, sons and daughter.

October 9, 2025December 29, 2025

Country Girl and Lifelong Writer Ann H. Gabhart

Today KyLee and Darcy sit down with bestselling author Ann H. Gabhart to explore her decades-long writing career and her latest historical romance, The Pursuit of Elena Bradford, which transports readers to the “Saratoga of the West”—the luxurious and intrigue-filled Graham Springs, Kentucky, in the mid-1800s.

Other appearances on the show include: A Bookchat about The Song of Sourwood Mountain, When the Meadow Blooms, and Episode 15- Along a Storied Trail.

September 28, 2025October 3, 2025

From Farm to Fiction: The Path of Christine Hill Suntz

Christine knew she wanted to write the day she finished Anne of Green Gables and she’s been lost in her imagination ever since. Winner of the ACFW 2022 Genesis contest for Historical Romance, she also won the 2021 West Coast Christian Writers Golden Goldie Best-in-Conference award. She lives in Ontario on a hobby farm with her family and a herd of entitled goats. When she’s not writing, she teaches high school French and tries out historical recipes on her (mostly) willing family. Follow her for more adventures in 19th-century life.

Farm Life Ideals to Farm Life Reality

From a childhood in rural Canada, Christine eventually made her way to the big city of Toronto where she lived for several years before the country called her back. She shares how she and her family found a farming style that works for them — and the trials along the way.

French Literature Background

A student of German and French, with a graduate degree in comparative literature, Christine shares some classic French writers she enjoys — and learns from — as she continues her writing and teaching careers.

Hands-On Research

Ever wondered what it was really like to wash clothes the old-fashioned way? Christine did — so she researched it and gave it a try. Enjoy this behind-the-scenes look at what being a laundress was like.

Canada’s Early Formation

Christine takes us on a tour of the political upheaval her characters face in The Lawyer and the Laundress. For Canadian school children, this is a well-known story. American readers may discover a new-to-them piece of history about how our neighbor to the north became the nation it is today.

About the Book The Lawyer and the Laundress

Lawyer James Kinney isn’t looking for love, and laundress Sara O’Connor doesn’t want to be found. When their paths cross in a British colony on the brink of rebellion, a marriage of convenience may be their best hope of survival.

Canada, 1837. Widower James Kinney knows his precocious daughter, Evie, needs more than his lessons on law and logic, but Toronto offers few options. Classes with the neighbor children seem ideal until James discovers Evie is secretly spending her time with Sara O’Connor, a kind and mysteriously educated servant. For propriety’s sake, James forbids their friendship. But then Evie falls victim to the illness ravaging the city, and James must call upon Sara’s medical knowledge and her special bond with Evie to save his daughter’s life.

When Sara’s presence in his household threatens scandal, however, James offers an unexpected solution: become his wife, in name only, and help him raise Evie to be a proper young lady.

If Sara can ignore the sparks she feels when they’re together, his logical proposal could keep her secret secure forever. But soon, the forces of rebellion unravel their tidy arrangement. When James is accused of treason, Sara must find the courage to face a past that could save her husband’s life.

Connect with Christine Hill Suntz on her website, where you can sign up for her newsletter, and on Instagram, Facebook, and Amazon.

Bookworm Review All My Secrets by Gabrielle Meyer

“Masterfully crafted and beautifully executed, “In This Moment” is a book you simultaneously want to binge read and linger in forever!

Gabrielle Meyer is a pioneer in the world of historical fiction, and she’s breaking new ground with the Timeless series. Her attention to historical detail is astounding, immersing the reader in all three time periods. Her heroine Maggie is at once remarkable and relatable, experiencing a fantastical journey we can only imagine while exploring tender emotions and questions of faith we know all too well.

In conclusion, I’d hereby like to bestow all the stars I’ve denied to other books on “In This Moment” because five stars just isn’t enough for this mind-blowing novel!

If you’re looking for an un-put-down-able story, In This Moment is a must read!”

~ Angela Bell, author of A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure

THE AUTHOR

Gabrielle Meyer has worked for state and local historical societies and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides along the banks of the Mississippi River in central Minnesota with her husband and four children. By day, she’s a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and nonfiction filled with hope.

Read more about Gabrielle at her website. (www.gabriellemeyer.com)

July 20, 2025July 20, 2025

Exploring Biblical Legends: Dana McNeely’s Journey through Fiction

Dana McNeely, a passionate writer of biblical fiction, invites readers into a world where ancient Bible stories come alive with adventure, danger, and romance. Despite never visiting the Holy Land personally, she relies on a vast collection of books and videos to authentically bring ancient tales to life. Whether you’re a long-time fan of biblical fiction or new to the genre, Dana McNeely invites you to deepen your faith through the power of storytelling.

Discovering Inspiration in for Authentic Settings

KyLee and Dana discuss how Dana’s Arizona home, with its varied landscapes and desert climate, parallels the vivid settings of her novels. This real-world inspiration bridges the gap between past and present, enriching her storytelling with grounded authenticity.

Beyond the Writing Office

Family traditions, particularly during Christmas, hold a special place in Dana’s heart. She shares how her family gathers to celebrate in grand style, complete with elaborate decorations and nativity scenes collected over the years. These cherished moments with family are a theme reflected in her stories, as well.

The Journey to Biblical Fiction

Dana’s journey into biblical fiction was paved with other genres that just didn’t quite captivate her interest. Her spiritual practices—spending quiet time with the Bible—sparked the inspiration for her writing. The story of the prophet Elijah bringing the widow’s son back to life captivated her imagination, laying the foundation for her debut novel. Her writing endeavors aim not only to entertain but also to inspire readers to explore the Bible themselves, overcoming misconceptions and diving into the source material with renewed curiosity.

A Shift to the New Testament

Dana’s first three books, including Mantle which is featured today, have been drawn from Old Testament stories. For her next project, she steps into the New Testament to tell the story of Anna, the prophetess. Excited to bring to life an older woman’s perspective, Dana delves into a narrative enriched by Anna’s experiences, wisdom, and the unique relationships she forms in the temple.

Connect with Dana McNeely at her website and on Facebook, Instagram, Goodreads, and BookBub. Sign up for her newsletter to receive a free novella, “The Eyes of the Lord,” a prequel that offers more depth to her beloved series.

In the aftermath of Elijah’s fiery ascension, the mantle of prophecy rests heavily on Elisha’s shoulders. Called to shepherd Israel through turbulent times, he faces challenges from rulers, prophets, and even the people closest to him.

Jaedon, who has shadowed Elisha since boyhood, is torn between loyalty to the prophet and his deepening desire to right a grievous wrong. As the young vintner struggles to understand why Yahweh allowed his family’s murders, he considers a step toward revenge that will jeopardize his relationship with the man he regards as an elder brother.

Gehazi, whose faith sometimes flickers, is tempted by the promise of wealth and power. His actions threaten to tear him away from the very blessings he sought to protect.

Meanwhile, Ziva, an innocent girl in the sleepy settlement of Gischala, is swept into a world filled with uncertainty and danger. With unimaginable loss behind her, she struggles to look beyond her grief to find God’s will. It is then she realizes only one path remains.

Faith. Redemption. The cost of leadership. Will the next generation rise to the challenge and uphold the legacy of Elijah, or will they falter under the weight of the mantle?

Bookworm Review

Of Love and Treason by Jamie Ogle, reviewed by Angela Bell

Listen to the full episode A Bookchat about Of Love and Treason with Jamie Ogle