Podcasts about Historical fiction

In this episode of the podcast, I'm joined by author Ron K. Fried for a deep dive into one of the most compelling figures in organized crime history: Frank Costello, the mob boss who rose to power during Prohibition and later became known as the “Prime Minister of the Underworld.” We discuss Ron's novel Frank Costello: A Novel—a carefully researched work of historical fiction that vividly brings Costello's complex character to life. Together, we explore the real-life events behind the book and how Ron approached writing about a man who straddled the worlds of organized crime and political power.We start with Costello's early years—his immigration from Sicily, his upbringing in East Harlem, and how he gravitated toward petty crime and gang life. In this environment, he met future legends like Charles “Lucky” Luciano, Meyer Lansky, Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel, and Vito Genovese—key figures in the creation of a national crime syndicate.During Prohibition, Costello built his fortune and reputation through bootlegging, running extensive liquor operations, and leveraging alliances that would shape the mob's future. We discuss the bloody 1931 power shift following the assassinations of Joe Masseria and Salvatore Maranzano, which led to the formation of the Five Families. As Luciano's trusted associate, Costello rose in the ranks of what would become the Genovese Crime Family.We explore the mid-1930s transition period when Luciano was imprisoned and Genovese fled to Italy to avoid a murder charge. This opened the door for Costello to become acting boss, a position he would hold for nearly 20 years. During this time, he built a reputation as a refined, politically connected mobster who favored influence over brute force—garnering real sway in political and judicial circles.We delve into Costello's political entanglements, including the wiretap involving Judge Thomas Aurelio, in which Costello was caught influencing judicial appointments. We also examine his ties to New York Mayor William O'Dwyer and his suspected involvement in the mysterious death of Abe Reles, a Murder, Inc. informant who “fell” from a window while under police protection.One major focus is Costello's appearance at the 1951 Kefauver Committee hearings, a turning point in his career. His decision to only allow his hands to be filmed became a media sensation and diminished his power and mystique. The public scrutiny weakened his position and empowered rivals—most notably, Vito Genovese, who sought to reclaim the top spot in the family.We look at the 1957 assassination attempt on Costello, carried out by Vincent “The Chin” Gigante on Genovese's orders. Though Costello survived, he chose to step down. We also discuss the murder of Albert Anastasia later that year, and the theory that Costello may have had a hand in framing Genovese, leading to his 1959 conviction on narcotics charges.From there, we examine Costello's final years, during which he remained influential behind the scenes but largely retired from active leadership. We reflect on his complex legacy: a ruthless gangster who carefully curated an image of legitimacy and respectability. Ron shares how he explored that duality in his novel—bringing humanity to a man who lived in both the criminal underworld and the corridors of political power.We also discuss mob portrayals in film and television, and look ahead to the upcoming 2025 gangster film Alto Knights, a much-anticipated movie featuring dramatizations of several key historical figures we covered. Our conversation touches on why the Mafia continues to fascinate the public and how Frank Costello's story stands apart as one of strategy, survival, and power.

[REBROADCAST FROM February 3, 2025] A historical novel follows Jessie Redmon Fauset, a high school teacher from Washington, D.C who moves to Harlem to chase her lifelong dream of becoming an editor. However, a secret affair with her boss puts her dreams at risk. Author Victoria Christopher Murray  discusses Harlem Rhapsody.

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Mystery at Montserrat: The Lost Artifact Uncovered Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2025-08-24-22-34-02-ca Story Transcript:Ca: El sol d'estiu il·luminava les muntanyes dentades de Montserrat, on el Monestir era el cor vibrant d'una celebració majestuosa.En: The summer sun illuminated the jagged mountains of Montserrat, where the Monastery was the vibrant heart of a majestic celebration.Ca: Era l'Assumpció de la Mare de Déu, i fidels de tot arreu havien vingut a participar a les festivitats.En: It was the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and faithful people from all around had come to participate in the festivities.Ca: El so de les campanes ressonava entre els penya-segats mentre Laia, una jove historiadora, passejava pels passadissos antics amb un aire de preocupació.En: The sound of bells resonated among the cliffs as Laia, a young historian, walked through the ancient halls with an air of concern.Ca: Feia dies que esperava les festivitats, un moment que sempre omplia el cor de la gent amb esperit i fe.En: She had been eagerly awaiting the festivities, a time that always filled people's hearts with spirit and faith.Ca: Però una ombra entelava aquesta diada: un artefacte rar i molt valuós havia desaparegut.En: But a shadow clouded this day: a rare and very valuable artifact had disappeared.Ca: Laia arribava al monestir cada any per estudiar els artefactes, i aquest en particular tenia un significat especial per a ella.En: Laia arrived at the monastery every year to study the artifacts, and this one in particular had special meaning for her.Ca: Havia estat en la seva família durant generacions abans d'esdevenir part del tresor del monestir.En: It had been in her family for generations before becoming part of the monastery's treasure.Ca: Quan el sol començava a pondre's, provocant un ball de colors de vermell i daurat per tot el cel, Laia trobà Martí prop de l'entrada.En: As the sun began to set, casting a dance of red and gold colors across the sky, Laia found Martí near the entrance.Ca: Ell, un vigilant de seguretat astut i respectat, mantenia la calma tot i el tumult.En: He, an astute and respected security guard, remained calm despite the tumult.Ca: "Martí, necessito la teva ajuda," digué Laia amb decisió.En: "Martí, I need your help," Laia said decisively.Ca: Martí aixecà una cella.En: Martí raised an eyebrow.Ca: "He escoltat que l'artefacte ha desaparegut.En: "I've heard that the artifact has disappeared.Ca: Això podria ser un gran problema pel monestir.En: This could be a big problem for the monastery."Ca: "Laia assentí, els ulls plens de determinació.En: Laia nodded, her eyes filled with determination.Ca: "No podem permetre que això taqui la reputació del monestir.En: "We cannot allow this to stain the monastery's reputation.Ca: Però també és part de la meva història familiar.En: But it is also part of my family's history."Ca: "Després de valorar la situació, Martí acceptà.En: After assessing the situation, Martí agreed.Ca: "D'acord, Laia.En: "Alright, Laia.Ca: Jo t'ajudaré.En: I will help you.Ca: Però hem de ser prudents.En: But we must be careful."Ca: "Tots dos començaren a investigar.En: The two began to investigate.Ca: Demanaren als visitants, revisaren gravacions, però era difícil enmig de tanta gent.En: They asked visitors, reviewed recordings, but it was difficult amidst so many people.Ca: Les seves pistes inicials eren confuses.En: Their initial clues were confusing.Ca: Però encara no es rendien.En: But they did not give up.Ca: Finalment, una tarda, Martí va notar alguna cosa estranya.En: Finally, one afternoon, Martí noticed something strange.Ca: Una persona s'havia comportat de manera sospitosa.En: A person had behaved suspiciously.Ca: Després de recollir més informació, van descobrir que aquesta persona es feia passar per un simple visitant.En: After gathering more information, they discovered that this person was posing as just a simple visitor.Ca: Van seguir les pistes fins als claustres.En: They followed the clues to the cloisters.Ca: El sol es reflectia sobre les aigües tranquil·les de la font quan van topar amb el sospitós.En: The sun reflected on the tranquil waters of the fountain when they came across the suspect.Ca: Es produí una confrontació tensa.En: A tense confrontation ensued.Ca: Martí mostrava la seva habilitat analitzant cada moviment de l'intrús.En: Martí demonstrated his skill by analyzing every movement of the intruder.Ca: Després d'una curta però intensa disputa, recuperaren l'artefacte.En: After a short but intense dispute, they recovered the artifact.Ca: Laia va sostenir el tresor amb mans tremoloses però alleujades, mentre Martí subjectava fermament el lladre fins que arribà l'autoritat local.En: Laia held the treasure with trembling but relieved hands, while Martí firmly held the thief until the local authority arrived.Ca: Amb l'artefacte segur i el sospitós arrestat, el monestir podia respirar tranquil.En: With the artifact safe and the suspect arrested, the monastery could breathe easy.Ca: La col·laboració entre Laia i Martí va ser clau per resoldre el misteri.En: The collaboration between Laia and Martí was key to solving the mystery.Ca: Ara, entre els repics de campanes, no només celebraven la resolució del cas, sinó també la força de treballar junts.En: Now, among the peals of the bells, they celebrated not only the resolution of the case but also the strength of working together.Ca: Laia aprengué que confiar en altres podia portar grans resultats.En: Laia learned that trusting others could yield great results.Ca: Martí guanyà un nou respecte per la seva capacitat per liderar i assegurar el bé del monestir.En: Martí gained new respect for his ability to lead and ensure the well-being of the monastery.Ca: A mesura que el sol es ponia darrere de les majestuoses siluetes de Montserrat, Laia i Martí contemplaven els cims.En: As the sun set behind the majestic silhouettes of Montserrat, Laia and Martí contemplated the peaks.Ca: Ells sabien que, de vegades, el destí requeria més d'un coratge solitari.En: They knew that, sometimes, destiny required more than just solitary courage. Vocabulary Words:the historian: la historiadorathe monastery: el monestirthe assumption: l'assumpcióthe cliffs: els penya-segatsthe artifact: l'artefactethe treasure: el tresorthe entrance: l'entradathe security guard: el vigilant de seguretatthe reputation: la reputacióthe visitor: el visitantthe recordings: les gravacionsthe clues: les pistesthe cloisters: els claustresthe confrontation: la confrontacióthe intruder: l'intrústhe dispute: la disputathe thief: el lladrethe authority: l'autoritatthe resolution: la resolucióthe mystery: el misterithe courage: el coratgethe festival: la festivitatthe celebration: la celebracióthe heart: el corthe spirit: l'esperitthe faith: la fethe tumult: el tumultthe fountain: la fontthe peaks: els cimsthe sunset: la posta de sol

Jon and Leigh chat with Liz, the director of the Alternate & Historical Fiction Track, where imagination collides with history. From dissecting the historical accuracy of Outlander, Bridgerton, and The Gilded Age, to celebrating 10 years of Tea Duels and the delightfully absurd Splendid Teapot Racing, this track is a fan-favorite blend of fact, fiction, and fun. 'We added historical fiction so it's not just history that never happened - it's also real history you might not know. And then, of course, we throw in tea duels, catillions, and teapot races. Because it's Dragon Con... why not?' - Liz The post 50 Days of Dragon Con 2025 – Day 44 – Alternate And Historical Fiction first appeared on The Unique Geek.

Author Joan Fernandez discusses her new novel, Saving Vincent. This work of historical fiction is the story of Jo Van Gogh, sister-in-law of painter Vincent Van Gogh and wife of Vincent's brother Theo. After the death of her husband, who died only six months after his brother, Jo inherited Vincent's artwork. At that time, the paintings were worthless, but Jo worked tirelessly to persuade people to take Vincent's art seriously. Eventually, people began to appreciate his art and buy his paintings. Thus, it was Jo who promoted the work, developed a market for the paintings, and rescued Vincent Van Gogh from obscurity.

We are going down the rabbit hole this week folks! Join us as we dive into the whimsical world of Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, a timeless tale that explores the boundaries of imagination and reality. We'll unravel the quirky characters, enchanting landscapes, and profound themes that have captivated readers for generations.My guest this week is Elizabeth Wiley, an award-winning audiobook narrator with a decade of experience in genres like Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, and Biography. Originally from Minnesota and now based in Williamsburg, Virginia, she records in her home studio. Elizabeth enjoys discussions on the intersection of arts and sciences with her NASA engineer partner. Her interests include sailing, skiing, yoga, and nature spirituality, along with a fondness for Birkenstocks and Hygge.The Queen of Hearts Special Cocktail 2 oz Vanilla Vodka3 oz TJ's To the Power of 7 Red juiceChocolate Covered CherriesShake with ice and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with chocolate covered cherries and enjoy!In this EpisodeAlice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis CarrollToo Old for This by Samantha Downing (Liz's latest narration!)Red, Wine and Blue VirginiaLM Elliott's websiteMy interview with LM ElliottAlice's Adventures in Wonderland narrated by Christopher PlummerGo Ask Alice (film)White Rabbit (Go Ask Alice) - song by Jefferson AirplaneThe Phantom Tollbooth by Norman JusterJohn Tenniel's Alice in Wonderland illustrationsRichmond SPCA Critter Camp

At the start of this episode, Alyssa Colman discusses her book 'Gilded Girl' with a special guest, my 14-year-old daughter Ella who loved this book when it came out several years ago. Alyssa and I then discuss her new book 'Where Only Storms Grow,' exploring themes of survival during the Dust Bowl through the eyes of twins Joanna and Howe. She shares insights into her writing process, character development, and the historical context of her work. Alyssa also reflects on her journey to becoming a writer and offers valuable advice for aspiring authors.For bonus content and info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: Newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter.I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to Libro.fm, a platform that supports indy bookstores.If you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).

In this episode, I'm delighted to be joined by Professor Charles Li, author of the brilliant new historical fiction novel, Lord Guan. We chat all about Professor Li's expertise in languages and linguistics, and I pick his brain for worldbuilding tips and advice to help you craft your own languages for your fantasy stories.We also dive into Chinese history and culture, looking specifically at the life story of Lord Guan and the legend surrounding him, before diving into the writing and researching of the book.And at 90 years old, Professor Li shares lots of brilliant pieces of wisdom we can all benefit and learn from. FANTASY WRITING BOOKS, CLASSES AND TOOLS⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheFantasyWritersToolshed ⁠⁠JOIN OUR DISCORD COMMUNITY⁠⁠⁠⁠https://mailchi.mp/395aa89d6ec0/join-richie-billings-community-of-writers⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ABOUT PROFESSOR CHARLES LIhttps://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Lord-Guan/Charles-N-Li/9781682452325https://www.simonandschuster.co.uk/authors/Charles-N-Li/185995596GET IN TOUCHthefantasywriterstoolshed@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.richiebilling.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ RESOURCESDiscover more ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠writing tips⁠ and guides⁠⁠⁠⁠ hereAnd learn more about⁠⁠ writing fantasy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ here

Send us a textIn today's episode, I am chatting with Janet Skelsien Charles. Janet is the New York Times, USA Today and #1 international bestselling author of The Paris Library, Moonlight in Odessa, Miss Morgan's Book Brigade and the audiobook The Parisian Chapter. Janet was born and raised in Montana. After graduating from the University of Montana, she got a job teaching English in Ukraine. She later when to France intending to teach for a year, and has been there ever since. Place is at the heart of every story she has ever written. She loves traveling, spending time with friends and family, and reearching stories of forgotten people and places. We are here today to discuss her latest multicast audiobook, The Parisian Chapter.We dive into her latest work, The Parisian Chapter, a rich, immersive story that connects to Miss Morgan's Book Brigade and The Paris Library. Each can be enjoyed as a standalone, but together they form a tapestry of interconnected characters and the many roles within a library.Episode Highlights:How teaching English in France led Janet to stay.The highs and lows of researching historical fiction.Why she avoids reading in her own genre while writing.The real history behind the women she brings to life on the page.How small contributions can still create a lasting impact on a community.Whether you're drawn to historical fiction, fascinated by research deep-dives, or simply love a good literary journey through time and place, this episode is full of stories, insight, and inspiration.Connect with Janet:WebsiteInstagramFacebookBooks and authors mentioned in the episode:Fiona Davis booksKristin Harmel booksTheir Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale HurstonThe Bookbinder's Secret by A.D. Bell (coming 01/13/2026)The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson BennettThe River We Remember by William Kent KruegerBook FlightThe Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street by Susan Jane GilmanHow the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accent by Julia Alvar

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Josep's Rivals and Revelations: A Saturnalia Tale of Artistry Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2025-08-11-22-34-02-ca Story Transcript:Ca: En un calorós matí d'estiu a l'Antiga Roma, el mercat estava ple de vida.En: On a hot summer morning in ancient Roma, the market was full of life.Ca: Les veus dels comerciants ressonaven entre les columnes de marbre mentre oferien els seus productes.En: The voices of the merchants echoed between the marble columns as they offered their products.Ca: Josep, un jove artesà amb talent, passejava per les parades, buscant teixits i materials especials per a la toga més espectacular.En: Josep, a talented young artisan, strolled through the stalls, searching for special fabrics and materials for the most spectacular toga.Ca: Amb la festa de la Saturnalia a tocar, volia destacar i atraure la mirada de patrons rics.En: With the Saturnalia festival approaching, he wanted to stand out and catch the eye of wealthy patrons.Ca: Josep sabia que els tints rars podien fer la diferència.En: Josep knew that rare dyes could make the difference.Ca: Un tint de color porpra era el més valorat, però també el més car.En: A purple dye was the most valued, but also the most expensive.Ca: Mentre caminava, va trobar Marta, la seva amiga.En: As he walked, he met Marta, his friend.Ca: "Josep, felicitats pel teu últim treball!En: "Congratulations on your latest work, Josep!"Ca: ", va dir Marta amb un somriure.En: said Marta with a smile.Ca: Josep li va explicar la seva missió i la seva preocupació pels costos.En: Josep explained his mission and his concern about the costs.Ca: Poc després, Josep va veure el seu rival, Arnau, examinant els mateixos tints.En: Shortly after, Josep saw his rival, Arnau, examining the same dyes.Ca: Arnau també volia destacar en la Saturnalia.En: Arnau also wanted to stand out in the Saturnalia.Ca: La competència era intensa.En: The competition was intense.Ca: Així doncs, Josep s'enfrontava a una difícil decisió: Baratar per uns tints més econòmics o prendre un préstec arriscat per comprar els de millor qualitat.En: Thus, Josep faced a difficult decision: barter for cheaper dyes or take a risky loan to buy those of the best quality.Ca: Mentre mirava els tints, un venedor amb aire misteriós es va acostar a Josep.En: While looking at the dyes, a mysterious-looking vendor approached Josep.Ca: "Escolta, jove", va dir, "Tinc una oferta especial per a tu.En: "Listen, young man," he said, "I have a special offer for you.Ca: Els millors tints a meitat de preu.En: The best dyes at half price."Ca: " Josep es va sorprendre, esperant un engany, però el venedor va demostrar la qualitat dels tints amb mostres brillants i vibrants.En: Josep was surprised, expecting a trick, but the vendor proved the quality of the dyes with bright and vibrant samples.Ca: Josep va acceptar l'oferta amb cautela.En: Josep cautiously accepted the offer.Ca: Mentre treballava en la toga, va començar a entendre que els tints eren importants, però el seu disseny, l'habilitat i la creativitat eren el que realment comptava.En: While working on the toga, he began to understand that the dyes were important, but it was his design, skill, and creativity that really counted.Ca: El dia de la festa, la toga de Josep va captivar a tothom.En: On the day of the festival, Josep's toga captivated everyone.Ca: Els rics patrons estaven impressionats pel disseny únic.En: The wealthy patrons were impressed by the unique design.Ca: Josep va comprendre que la veritable riquesa estava en el seu art i enginy, no només en els materials.En: Josep realized that true wealth lay in his art and ingenuity, not just in the materials.Ca: Va saludar Arnau, que també admirava la seva feina.En: He greeted Arnau, who also admired his work.Ca: Josep havia guanyat confiança en les seves habilitats i va aprendre una valuosa lliçó sobre el valor de l'art.En: Josep had gained confidence in his abilities and learned a valuable lesson about the value of art.Ca: La jornada va acabar amb Josep amb nous contactes i amb el cor ple de satisfacció, perquè havia après a valorar la seva pròpia creativitat per damunt de qualsevol altra cosa.En: The day ended with Josep having new contacts and a heart full of satisfaction because he had learned to appreciate his own creativity above anything else.Ca: La Saturnalia va ser un èxit i Josep va tornar a casa amb el futur més brillant que mai.En: The Saturnalia was successful, and Josep returned home with a brighter future than ever. Vocabulary Words:artisan: artesàmarket: mercatmarble: marbrefabrics: teixitsrival: rivaldyes: tintspatrons: patronscompetition: competènciabarter: baratarloan: préstecvendor: venedoroffer: ofertatrick: enganysamples: mostresdesign: dissenyskill: habilitatcreativity: creativitatfestival: festawealth: riquesaart: artingenuity: enginyfuture: futursaturnalia: Saturnaliacolumns: columnesmission: missióconcern: preocupaciódecision: decisiómysterious: misteriósaccept: acceptarunderstand: entendre

Send us a textMemoir Master Plan Cohort is open. Get info and sign up hereElizabeth chats with author, Jillian Forsberg, about her writing life, what inspired her to write her recent novel "Rhino Keeper," and the importance of telling stories that matter. You'll learn about what helps Jillian stay focused on her goals and how she approaches her writing life. This episode is packed full of inspiration to remind you about the importance of telling your story or telling a story you feel needs to be told.For listeners of this episode, Jillian is offering you a hardcover copy of her books when you mention you heard her here. This offer is for listeners in the US and Canada only. This episode mentions Rhino Keeper by Jillian Forsberg.Jillian Forsberg is a historical fiction author, mother, pet owner, and bridal store owner. She has a masters degree in public history and her stories focus on little known peoples and historic animals. She lives in Wichita, Kansas.Books and Resources mentioned in this episode:Storyworthy by Matthew Dicks Marvelous by Molly Greeley The Moth: The Art and Craft of Storytelling Join our Embodied Writing Experience where you'll get a writer's retreat directly to your inbox on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays each week. Whether you're working on a memoir, a novel, or journaling for yourself, this is an invitation to slow down, tune in, and write with embodied intention. Enrollment is OPEN for the Memoir Master Plan cohort here. If you prefer video versions of the podcast, you can find all of them on our YouTube channel.

The Goethe Awards Hall of Fame is here! Join us in celebrating the best of the best for this Grand Prize Late Historical Fiction Books!

Guest: Dr. Barb Mayes BousteadWhen we talk about climate change, the conversation is often full of data, models, and projections, but sometimes, the most powerful insights come from stories. Long before satellites and Doppler radar, Laura Ingalls Wilder was documenting the weather in her own way: through her vivid accounts of prairie blizzards, scorching droughts, and the struggle to survive it all. In a brand new book connecting Wilder's writings to the realities of climate change, author Dr. Barb Boustead shows us that the past doesn't just inform the present—it can shape how we care for the future. Today on Weather Geeks, we're talking about the intersection of literature, climate memory, and what we choose to protect when nature pushes back.Chapters00:00 The Power of Stories in Climate Change11:58 Resilience in the Face of Unpredictable Weather23:34 Lessons from Laura Ingalls Wilder's Experiences35:19 Connecting Literature and Climate PreparednessSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fluent Fiction - Spanish: Unveiling Secrets: Lucía's Journey to Recoleta's Hidden Past Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/es/episode/2025-08-06-22-34-02-es Story Transcript:Es: El viento soplaba frío en el Cementerio de la Recoleta, llevando consigo susurros de un pasado olvidado.En: The wind blew cold in the Cementerio de la Recoleta, carrying with it whispers of a forgotten past.Es: Lucía se detuvo frente a un mausoleo cubierto de musgo.En: Lucía stopped in front of a moss-covered mausoleum.Es: En sus manos, un antiguo papel amarillento comparaba con el color de las hojas caídas.En: In her hands, an ancient yellowed paper compared with the color of the fallen leaves.Es: Había encontrado la carta en una librería antigua, escondida dentro de un libro de historia.En: She had found the letter in an old bookstore, hidden inside a history book.Es: La carta hablaba de un tesoro escondido.En: The letter talked about a hidden treasure.Es: Era el Día de San Cayetano, y los visitantes acudían al cementerio para ofrecer su devoción, fuera en busca de trabajo o de paz.En: It was Día de San Cayetano, and visitors flocked to the cemetery to offer their devotion, whether in search of work or peace.Es: Lucía, empujada por su pasión y con la carta bien guardada en su bolso, se reunió con Esteban a la entrada del cementerio.En: Lucía, driven by her passion and with the letter safely tucked in her bag, met Esteban at the entrance of the cemetery.Es: Esteban, con su lógica siempre presente, cruzó los brazos y la miró escéptico.En: Esteban, with his ever-present logic, crossed his arms and looked at her skeptically.Es: "Esto huele a engaño, Lucía," dijo con una sonrisa irónica.En: "This smells like a scam, Lucía," he said with an ironic smile.Es: Pero Lucía, decidida, apeló a la curiosidad inherente de su amigo.En: But Lucía, determined, appealed to her friend's inherent curiosity.Es: "¿Y si es verdad?"En: "What if it's true?"Es: preguntó, brillando de emoción.En: she asked, shining with excitement.Es: Los dos se adentraron en el laberinto de mausoleos y estatuas.En: The two ventured into the maze of mausoleums and statues.Es: El aire de invierno era denso, y el eco de sus pasos les hacía compañía.En: The winter air was dense, and the echo of their footsteps kept them company.Es: La carta mencionaba un alcázar perdido entre las tumbas.En: The letter mentioned a castle lost among the graves.Es: Lucía sintió un escalofrío, pero más de emoción que de frío.En: Lucía felt a shiver, but more from excitement than cold.Es: A su lado, Esteban murmuraba una lista interminable de razones por las que todo podía ser una farsa.En: Beside her, Esteban murmured an endless list of reasons why everything could be a farce.Es: Después de varias vueltas, cuando casi se daban por vencidos, encontraron una pequeña alcoba oculta entre un monumento a un general desconocido y la tumba de un poeta famoso.En: After several turns, when they were almost ready to give up, they found a small alcove hidden between a monument to an unknown general and the tomb of a famous poet.Es: Allí, cubierto por enredaderas, había un viejo arco.En: There, covered by vines, was an old arch.Es: "Aquí es," dijo Lucía con seguridad.En: "This is it," said Lucía confidently.Es: La carta también incluía un acertijo: "Con el toque de San Cayetano, se abre la puerta."En: The letter also included a riddle: "With the touch of San Cayetano, the door opens."Es: Esteban frunció el ceño.En: Esteban frowned.Es: “¿Qué significa eso?” Lucía, recordando las reliquias del santo, propuso encender una vela.En: “What does that mean?” Lucía, recalling the relics of the saint, suggested lighting a candle.Es: Buscaron en sus bolsillos una pequeña vela de emergencia y la prendieron con un encendedor.En: They searched their pockets for a small emergency candle and lit it with a lighter.Es: La luz titilante reveló una inscripción apenas visible: “Fe con obras.” En un instante, el arco se movió lentamente, revelando una escalerilla polvorienta que descendía a la oscuridad.En: The flickering light revealed a barely visible inscription: “Fe con obras.” In an instant, the arch moved slowly, revealing a dusty ladder descending into darkness.Es: Bajaron con cautela, la linterna de Esteban iluminando el camino.En: They went down cautiously, Esteban's flashlight illuminating the way.Es: Al llegar al final, no encontraron oro ni joyas, sino un conjunto de documentos y mapas antiguos, detallando una historia perdida de Buenos Aires.En: At the bottom, they found no gold or jewels, but a set of ancient documents and maps, detailing a lost history of Buenos Aires.Es: Los documentos revelaron conexiones con acontecimientos históricos que nadie había sospechado.En: The documents revealed connections to historical events that no one had suspected.Es: El hallazgo fue suficiente para reescribir partes de la historia local.En: The find was enough to rewrite parts of the local history.Es: Lucía, con una mezcla de emoción y asombro, miró a Esteban, quien ahora sonreía satisfecho, dispuesto a admitir que se había equivocado.En: Lucía, with a mix of excitement and amazement, looked at Esteban, who now smiled with satisfaction, willing to admit he had been wrong.Es: Lucía ganó reconocimiento por su descubrimiento, pero más importante aún, aprendió el valor de sus instintos y la importancia del apoyo de un buen amigo.En: Lucía gained recognition for her discovery, but more importantly, she learned the value of her instincts and the importance of a good friend's support.Es: La aventura en la Recoleta había terminado, pero su historia apenas comenzaba.En: The adventure in Recoleta was over, but her story was just beginning.Es: La historia era su verdadero tesoro, y compartirla con el mundo, su recompensa.En: The story was her true treasure, and sharing it with the world, her reward. Vocabulary Words:the wind: el vientothe whisper: el susurrothe mausoleum: el mausoleothe moss: el musgothe letter: la cartathe devotion: la devociónthe entrance: la entradaskeptically: escépticothe scam: el engañothe maze: el laberintothe excitement: la emociónthe shiver: el escalofríothe alcove: la alcobathe monument: el monumentothe vines: las enredaderasthe arch: el arcothe riddle: el acertijothe inscription: la inscripciónthe ladder: la escalerillathe darkness: la oscuridadthe flashlight: la linternathe document: el documentothe map: el mapathe discovery: el descubrimientothe satisfaction: la satisfacciónthe instinct: el instintothe support: el apoyothe reward: la recompensathe adventure: la aventurathe journey: el viaje

Highlighting the First Place Winners of the 2024 Goethe Book Awards for Late Historical Fiction! Dive into the past and add these books to your TBR!

Love late historical fiction? Check out our spotlight on the Goethe Awards to see some of the best books in the genre we've reviewed recently!

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Unveiling Secrets on La Rambla: A Mysterious Clue Hunt Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2025-08-02-22-34-01-ca Story Transcript:Ca: Un matí assolellat d'estiu, La Rambla de Barcelona estava plena de vida.En: One sunny summer morning, La Rambla de Barcelona was full of life.Ca: Turistes i locals passejaven entre els mercats ambulants.En: Tourists and locals strolled among the street markets.Ca: Entre ells, Adrià caminava amb atenció.En: Among them, Adrià walked carefully.Ca: La seva passió per la història el portava sovint a buscar tresors amagats als llibres antics que omplien les parades.En: His passion for history often led him to search for hidden treasures in the old books that filled the stalls.Ca: De sobte, els seus ulls es van fixar en un llibre vell, el llom desgastat pel temps.En: Suddenly, his eyes fixed on an old book, its spine worn by time.Ca: "El misterio del mar" era el títol.En: "El misterio del mar" was the title.Ca: Adrià va sospirar, pensant en un altre dia sense sorpreses.En: Adrià sighed, thinking of another day without surprises.Ca: Però quan el va obrir, va trobar una cosa inesperada.En: But when he opened it, he found something unexpected.Ca: Entre les pàgines grogues, hi havia una carta.En: Between the yellowed pages, there was a letter.Ca: Mal tancada, envellida.En: Poorly sealed and aged.Ca: Va llegir les primeres línies, críptiques i plenes de pistes.En: He read the first lines, cryptic and full of clues.Ca: Tot a prop, Núria, la propietària de la parada, l'observava amb un somriure matisat de curiositat i desconfiança.En: Nearby, Núria, the stall owner, watched him with a smile tinged with curiosity and distrust.Ca: "Has trobat alguna cosa interessant?", va preguntar.En: "Have you found something interesting?" she asked.Ca: Adrià va aixecar el cap i va somriure.En: Adrià looked up and smiled.Ca: "Potser...", va respondre enigmàtic.En: "Maybe..." he replied enigmatically.Ca: Núria, encara amb cautela, li va permetre seguir amb la seva investigació.En: Núria, still cautious, allowed him to continue with his investigation.Ca: Al seu costat, Laia, una turista de visita a la ciutat, estava ullant llibres de cuina catalana.En: Beside him, Laia, a tourist visiting the city, was browsing Catalan cookbooks.Ca: Va veure el paper en mans d'Adrià i va exclamar, "conec aquesta lletra!".En: She saw the paper in Adrià's hands and exclaimed, "I know that handwriting!"Ca: Sorpresa, va explicar que la seva àvia solia escriure així.En: Surprised, she explained that her grandmother used to write like that.Ca: Adrià, reconeixent una oportunitat, va demanar ajuda a Laia.En: Adrià, recognizing an opportunity, asked for Laia's help.Ca: Junts, van començar a desxifrar les pistes que els portaven per la ciutat, des dels carrerons de Ciutat Vella fins als llocs més amagats.En: Together, they began to decipher the clues that led them around the city, from the alleys of Ciutat Vella to the most hidden places.Ca: Cada lloc va revelar una part de la història, un secret familiar perdut en el temps.En: Each location revealed a part of the story, a family secret lost in time.Ca: El camí era complicat, i sovint Núria els advertia de la dificultat de confiar en desconeguts, però Adrià sentia que Laia deia la veritat.En: The path was complicated, and Núria often warned them of the difficulty of trusting strangers, but Adrià felt that Laia was telling the truth.Ca: Finalment, les pistes els van conduir a un antic edifici, on l'últim enigma els esperava.En: Finally, the clues led them to an old building, where the last riddle awaited them.Ca: Amb un gest hàbil, Adrià i Laia van obrir una porta secreta que amagava un cofre.En: With a skillful gesture, Adrià and Laia opened a secret door that hid a chest.Ca: Dins, van trobar records d'una època passada i, amb ells, la veritat sobre la carta: un vincle perdut de la família de Laia.En: Inside, they found memories of a past era and, with them, the truth about the letter: a lost bond of Laia's family.Ca: Amb emoció, Laia va agrair a Adrià, i junts van entregar la carta a la seva família.En: With emotion, Laia thanked Adrià, and together they delivered the letter to her family.Ca: Aquell document tancava un capítol obert fa molts anys.En: That document closed a chapter opened many years ago.Ca: Quan es va acomiadar d'ells, Adrià va sentir una calidesa nova en el seu cor.En: When he said goodbye to them, Adrià felt a new warmth in his heart.Ca: Havia trobat en aquells carrers de Barcelona no només un misteri, sinó nous amics i la certesa que l'aventura i la connexió podien aparèixer en els moments més inesperats.En: He had found in those streets of Barcelona not only a mystery but new friends and the certainty that adventure and connection could appear in the most unexpected moments.Ca: Va tornar a La Rambla amb il·lusió i un somriure, tot recordant la lliçó més important d'aquell dia lluminós.En: He returned to La Rambla with excitement and a smile, all while remembering the most important lesson of that bright day. Vocabulary Words:morning: matísummer: estiupassion: passióhistory: històriatreasures: tresorsstalls: paradesspine: llomworn: desgastatcuriosity: curiositatdistrust: desconfiançahandwriting: lletraclues: pistesalleys: carreronspath: camídifficulty: dificultatcautious: cautelariddle: enigmachest: cofrememories: recordstruth: veritatbond: vincleemotion: emociógoodbye: acomiadarwarmth: calidesacertainty: certesaadventure: aventuraconnection: connexióexcitement: il·lusiólesson: lliçóbright: llumiós

Alka Joshi spent 10 years working on her debut novel, The Henna Artist, before it was published in March 2020, just before the world locked down as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Then, a few months later, Reese Witherspoon selected it as a Reese's book club, changing the trajectory of Joshi's life and writing career forever. At a time when many debut artists were struggling to connect with their audiences, Joshi was zooming into libraries, bookstores, and book clubs big and small, and finding her people in the process. Five years later, Joshi has published two sequels to The Henna Artist and a new standalone novel, Six Days in Bombay, a coming-of-age novel about an Anglo-Indian nurse who travels Europe to carry out the final wishes of one of her patients. In our conversation, we talk about her whirlwind success, her fascination with the years leading up to India's independence from Britain, the artist who inspired her latest story, and her next project.

We're joined by award-winning Actor/Producer Blair Underwood and Director/Producer/Author Joe McClean to talk about their new novel, Sins of Survivors, written by Joe and presented by Blair. The book brings Black Bottom back to beautiful and sweeping life through the story of The Carter family. Fictional brothers Jasper and Ben whose heart wrenching journey brings them north to Detroit during the Great Migration. The Carters take root, raise families and bloom into neighborhood kingpins in a once vibrant, but redlined area that was bulldozed in the 1950s to put in a freeway.Joe unpacks how his deep research and a love of overlooked history shaped the Carter dynasty story in which two very different but fiercely loyal brothers face a shifting landscape and the rippling impact of their shared trauma on the next generation. Black Bottom, once a hub of Black resilience and ingenuity under strict and brutal segregation  becomes the perfect backdrop for a sweeping saga of survival and criminal enterprise.Blair shares how he chooses which projects to champion, he reflects on his own remarkable career (L.A. Law, Gattaca, Deep Impact, Sex and the City), and shares  his Obama related history! Joe ponders his personal approach when writing screenplays vs. novels and shares a powerful story connecting the haunting legacy of “Strange Fruit” to our current political moment.We also explore the hidden history of Detroit's underworld, from its prohibition-era bootlegging routes to the layered decades of Black Bottom's rise and fall under so-called “urban renewal.”Crime, family bonds and cultural touchstones coalesce in this tightly written work of fiction that reflects the real struggles of black experiences, painting a vivid portrait of a unique time and place in our shared American history.In recommendations--Weezy: Stick, Apple TV+ SeriesFritz: Movie, Sunday Best on NetflixPath Points of Interest:Sins of Survivors by Joe McClean and Blair UnderwoodSins of Survivors Audiobook PreviewJoe McClean on WikipediaJoe McClean on InstagramBlair Underwood on WikipediaBlair Underwood on IMDBBlair Underwood on InstagramStickSunday Best - NetflixMedia Path Podcast

How can we respond to suicide grief? In today's powerful episode, host Tina Yeager sits down with bestselling author Tracie Peterson—affectionately known as the queen of historical fiction—to explore the complicated and often unspoken aspects of suicide grief. Drawing from personal experiences and extensive research for her latest novel, Tracie opens up about why she chose to address suicide in her fiction and how storytelling can offer a gentle, healing space for those processing loss. Together, Tina and Tracie discuss the stigma and secrecy historically surrounding suicide, the different ways people move through grief, and the vital importance of finding safe, supportive communities—whether that means close friends, faith leaders, or professional counselors. Tune in to find both comfort and practical insight as we break the silence, shed shame, and highlight the biblical and scientific truths that can help us respond compassionately to those grieving after suicide. Whether you're in the midst of loss yourself or seeking to better support loved ones, this episode offers hope and understanding for a journey that is never meant to be walked alone. Here are some key takeaways from this episode: The Power of Story: Fiction offers a safe space to process hard emotions and see your experiences reflected, sometimes helping you take steps toward healing when you're not ready for counseling or direct conversations. The Weight of Stigma: Historically and today, many cultures surround suicide with secrecy and shame—which only compounds the pain for those left behind. Tracie's work addresses these silences and offers a message of compassion and biblical hope. A Safe Place for Grief: Healing often begins by seeking “safe people”—those you can trust with your vulnerability, such as mature faith leaders, therapists, or supportive friends. It's okay if your journey looks different from others—there's no timeline for grief. Moving Forward: You may never get over the loss, but you can get through it. God's love is deeper than our pain, and nothing can separate us from it (Romans 8). How We Can Help: If you're walking alongside someone grieving a suicide, simply being present—without trying to “fix” their pain or rush their process—makes a vital difference. And above all, pray continually for comfort and healing. Dial 988 to access the Suicide & Crisis Hotline. If you'd like to read Tracie's new Hope of Cheyenne series, starting with A Constant Love, you can find more at traciepeterson.com.   We're thrilled to accompany you on this journey of faith, growth, and transformation. As always, we appreciate your support! Please subscribe and share this episode. We can't wait for you to join us for future episodes of Flourish-Meant. To book Tina as a speaker, connect with her life coaching services, and more, visit her website: https://tinayeager.com/ Optimize your mind and body with my new favorite, all-inclusive supplement, Cardio Miracle! I love the energy and focus this health-boosting drink mix provides without toxins, caffeine, or sugar! Get a discount on your purchase with my link: http://www.cardiomiracle.com/tinayeager Use the code TINA10 at checkout. To flourish in all seasons of life with the highest quality nutraceutical health supplements that benefit charitable causes, shop NutraMedix wellness supplements. Be sure to use my link  https://www.nutramedix.com/?rfsn=7877557.b6c6785 and add my special code TINA to get 10% off your entire purchase! If you're a writer, subscribe to Inkspirations Online (devotional publication by writers for writers): https://www.inkspirationsonline.com/ Manage stress and anxiety in 10 minutes a day with the course presented by 15 experts, Subdue Stress and Anxiety https://divineencouragement.onlinecoursehost.com/courses Connect with Tina at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tyeagerwriting/ Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinayeager/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tina.yeager.9/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TinaYeager Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tyeagerwrites/ Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3865622.Tina_Yeager  

Meet Madeleine Cleary the debut author the the Historical Fiction novel The Butterfly Women. Lush, dark and meticulously researched, The Butterfly Women weaves romance and mystery into an unforgettable tale of Australian history.Links to the books mentioned in the podcast:The Butterfly Women The Forgotten Rebels of Eureka by Clare WrightThe Women of Little Lon Barbara MinchintonBearbrass: Imagining Early Melbourne by Robin AnnearYou can research Australian newspaper and other historical collections at Trove:Research at TroveLittle Lon Collection at the Melbourne MuseumContact MadeleineMadeleine Cleary WebsiteMadeleine's Instagram   Click to join my mailing listTeachers Pay Teachers StoreGrab a copy of History, Her Story, Our Story from Amazon!If you would like to support the podcast, you and Buy Me a CoffeeWrite a review on Podchaser, Apple or Spotify.The History Detective Season 1 & 2 Album is now available on Spotify and all of your music streaming services.Contact: Instagram @HistoryDetective9, email historydetective9@gmail.comHistory Detective WebsiteAll music written and performed by Kelly Chase.

Send us a textIn this episode, I chat with Danielle Teller about how her creative journey defies conventional wisdom about career paths. From Yale-trained pulmonologist studying lung disease to acclaimed novelist, her story demonstrates how life's unexpected turns might lead us exactly where we're meant to be."I was a huge bookworm when I was a kid, but I was too chicken to actually write," Teller says. She explains how her fears centered on financial insecurity and feeling she lacked stories to tell, until a cross-country move disrupted her academic medical career and her husband encouraged her to pursue this long-held dream.Teller's latest novel, Forged, transports readers to America's Gilded Age through the story of Fanny, a desperate young woman navigating a Darwinian world of social stratification and ruthless capitalism. What makes this historical fiction particularly compelling is Teller's revelation that our current era mirrors that period of extreme wealth disparities and political corruption. "I think that my research reinforced my feeling that we are in a second Gilded Age," she explains, describing the disturbing parallels between past and present.Our conversation ventures beyond the novel to explore the publishing industry's subjective nature, including how finding the right agent resembles "matchmaking." Teller's unique perspective shapes characters who defy traditional female protagonist tropes, creating women who actively forge their own destinies despite societal constraints.Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode to help more readers discover thought-provoking historical fiction that illuminates both past and present.Danielle TellerForged, Danielle TellerOrbital, Samantha HarveyThe Elements of Eloquence, Mark ForsythGoddess Complex, Sanjena SathianSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

How to write a historical fiction book w/Rick SkwiotThe Bootlegger's BrideHere's a murder mystery that's filled with gritty family drama, historical fiction, and a coming-of-age tale – all combined into one. Spanning Prohibition, The Great Depression, World War ll, and the Vietnam War, THE BOOTLEGGER'S BRIDE – written by veteran journalist and professor, RICK SKWIOT, offers something for every reader! A perfect summer read!Link:https://www.rickskwiot.com/Tags:Author,Best-Selling Author,Books,Fiction,Historical Fiction,Podcast,Podcasting,Phantom Electric Ghost Podcast,Podmatch,InterviewSupport PEG by checking out our Sponsors:Download and use Newsly for free now from www.newsly.me or from the link in the description, and use promo code “GHOST” and receive a 1-month free premium subscription.The best tool for getting podcast guests:https://podmatch.com/signup/phantomelectricghostSubscribe to our Instagram for exclusive content:https://www.instagram.com/expansive_sound_experiments/Subscribe to our YouTube https://youtube.com/@phantomelectricghost?si=rEyT56WQvDsAoRprRSShttps://anchor.fm/s/3b31908/podcast/rssSubstackhttps://substack.com/@phantomelectricghost?utm_source=edit-profile-page

Send us a textToday, I'm joined by my longtime friend Mike Mizrahi—yes, we go way back. Mike's career took him from an undergraduate degree in journalism to a Master's in corporate communication. He had a career as a corporate spokesperson, but his real passion found its home in writing historical fiction. And his latest novel, The Weight of Loyalty, is a great achievement. I read it with great interest; a powerful, rich exploration of the perils of wartime on the Greek Isles.It's a sweeping story of love, sacrifice, and moral conflict, set against the backdrop of World War II on the Greek island of Kefalonia. Inspired by the real-life survival story of Royal Navy seaman John Capes, Mike weaves the tale of Oliver Graham, a British submariner, and Natalía Giannatos, a Greek woman whose life is touched by war, love, and spiritual searching. Think James Michener meets Ernest Hemingway—with a splash of Greek wine and Orthodox mysticism.We discuss why historical fiction matters, what drew Mike to this particular time and place, and how personal research—a research tour on the island of Kefalonia—shaped every detail from the rugged landscape to the local cuisine to miracle-working monks.But this isn't just a war story. It's a love story on many levels—and a deeply reflective one at that. Mike wrestles with big questions: the cost of conscience, the meaning of faith, and what it really means to be loyal.If you've ever wondered how fiction can serve as therapy—or how an author channels personal values into imagined worlds—this conversation's for you. So stay tuned, and enjoy this rich, thoughtful dive into The Weight of Loyalty with my good friend, Mike Mizrahi. SHOW NOTESSupport the showBecome a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you! Ken's Substack Page The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com

Summer is a time for relaxing with a good book. This week we recommend 4 local historical fiction books for your enjoyment.

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Unscripted Comedy at Tarragona: Roman Ruins Reimagined! Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2025-07-23-22-34-02-ca Story Transcript:Ca: La calidesa del sol d'estiu s'escampava per les ruïnes antigues de Tarragona.En: The warmth of the summer sun spread across the ancient ruins of Tarragona.Ca: Les pedres velles brillaven a la llum solar, cridant l'atenció dels turistes que vagarejaven amb càmeres i xancletes.En: The old stones shone in the sunlight, catching the attention of tourists wandering around with cameras and flip-flops.Ca: Entre aquestes pedres, tres figures es destacaven amb disfresses peculiarment pintoresques: Roc, Laia i Pau.En: Among these stones, three figures stood out in peculiarly picturesque costumes: Roc, Laia, and Pau.Ca: Roc, amb una túnica blanca que feia semblar un senador romà, passava les mans pels cabells, intentant semblar seriós i històric.En: Roc, in a white tunic that made him look like a Roman senator, ran his hands through his hair, trying to appear serious and historic.Ca: Volia impressionar la Laia.En: He wanted to impress Laia.Ca: Però, en realitat, no sabia gaire sobre les ruïnes.En: However, in reality, he knew little about the ruins.Ca: Laia, disfressada d'una dona romana amb un somriure astut, sabia que Roc no tenia ni idea sobre la història.En: Laia, dressed as a Roman woman with a sly smile, knew that Roc had no idea about history.Ca: Ella, però, gaudia més observant els jocs de Pau.En: She, however, enjoyed watching Pau's antics more.Ca: Pau, amb una corona de llorer massa gran pel cap, feia rialles amb el seu públic.En: Pau, with a laurel crown that was too big for his head, amused the crowd.Ca: S'inventava històries boges sobre gladiadors ballant sardanes.En: He invented crazy stories about gladiators dancing sardanes.Ca: —Atenció, turistes! —cridà Roc des de dalt d'una pedra alta—.En: "Attention, tourists!" Roc shouted from atop a high stone.Ca: Us presento... eh... el famós emperador romà, Antonius... Tarraconius!En: "I present to you... uh... the famous Roman emperor, Antonius... Tarraconius!"Ca: Laia va aixecar una cella.En: Laia raised an eyebrow.Ca: —Tarraconius? Quin nom! —va murmurar rient—.En: "Tarraconius? What a name!" she murmured, laughing.Ca: Això existeix?En: "Does that even exist?"Ca: Pau, sense perdre l'ocasió, continuà amb la seva pròpia història.En: Pau, not missing the opportunity, continued with his own story.Ca: —Saps què?En: "You know what?Ca: Diuen que aquest emperador va inventar el pa amb tomàquet!En: They say this emperor invented pa amb tomàquet!Ca: Així va començar tot!En: That's how it all began!"Ca: Els turistes reien, gaudint de l'espectacle còmic.En: The tourists laughed, enjoying the comedic show.Ca: Tot, però, canvia quan un home amb ulleres apareix entre la multitud.En: Everything, however, changed when a man with glasses appeared among the crowd.Ca: Era un historiador real, de pell morena i mirada curiosa.En: He was a real historian, with tanned skin and a curious gaze.Ca: —Perdona'm, —digué l'historiador amb un to afable—En: "Excuse me," the historian said in a friendly tone,Ca: però em temo que cap Antonius Tarraconius no va mai existir, ni els romans menjaven pa amb tomàquet...En: "but I'm afraid no Antonius Tarraconius ever existed, nor did the Romans eat pa amb tomàquet..."Ca: Roc es ruboritzà, mentre els turistes les miraven amb interès renovat.En: Roc blushed, while the tourists watched them with renewed interest.Ca: Laia esclatà en rialles, i Pau xiuxiuejà:En: Laia burst into laughter, and Pau whispered,Ca: —Ai, Roc, sembla que has trobat el professor!En: "Oh, Roc, looks like you've found the professor!"Ca: Després del seu inici erràtic, l'historiador va oferir fer una petita lliçó sobre les ruïnes, captivant completament l'audiència.En: After their erratic start, the historian offered to give a small lesson about the ruins, completely captivating the audience.Ca: Al final, Roc també reia de les seves pròpies ficcions absurdament improvisades.En: In the end, Roc also laughed at his own absurdly improvised fictions.Ca: El dia s'acabà amb l'últim raig de sol il·luminant les pedres antigues.En: The day ended with the last ray of sun illuminating the ancient stones.Ca: Roc va aprendre que no cal saber-ho tot per gaudir de l'experiència, especialment amb amics al seu costat,En: Roc learned that you don't need to know everything to enjoy the experience, especially with friends by your side,Ca: i que riure amb els altres és, a vegades, la millor manera d'aprendre.En: and that laughing with others is sometimes the best way to learn.Ca: I així, entre rialles, amistat i pedres romanes antigues, Tarragona va acollir un altre dia d'estiu ple de records inoblidables.En: And so, amid laughter, friendship, and ancient Roman stones, Tarragona embraced another summer day full of unforgettable memories. Vocabulary Words:the warmth: la calidesaancient: antiguesthe ruins: les ruïnesto wander: vagarejarpeculiarly: peculiarmentthe tunic: la túnicato impress: impressionarsly: astutantics: els jocsthe laurel crown: la corona de llorerthe crowd: la multitudto amuse: fer riallesthe eyebrow: la cellathe historian: l'historiadorfriendly: afableto blush: ruboritzar-serenewed: renovaterratic: erràticthe lesson: la lliçóto captivate: captivarabsurdly: absurdamentimprovised: improvisadesthe ray: el raigto illuminate: il·luminarto enjoy: gaudirthe friendship: l'amistatunforgettable: inoblidablesthe audience: l'audiènciathe gaze: la miradathe memory: el record

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Secrets of Kyoto: Unveiling the Past, Embracing the Future Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ja/episode/2025-07-23-22-34-02-ja Story Transcript:Ja: 京都の古代遺跡には、時間が止まったかのような静けさが漂っていました。En: In the ancient ruins of Kyoto, a silence as if time had stopped lingered.Ja: 石畳のあいだに苔が生い茂り、彫刻が施された柱は長い歴史を語っていました。En: Moss grew thick between the cobblestones, and the pillars adorned with carvings spoke of a long history.Ja: その日はまるで夏の太陽がすべてを優しく包み込むかのようでした。En: On that day, it seemed as if the summer sun was gently enveloping everything.Ja: 遺跡の中を歩く一人の男、直樹がいました。En: There was a man walking through the ruins, Naoki.Ja: 彼は内気な考古学者でした。En: He was a shy archaeologist.Ja: いつかこの世界に自分の価値を証明したいと心のどこかで思っていました。En: Somewhere in his heart, he wished to prove his worth to the world someday.Ja: その一方で、彼はひとりの女性、桜と出会います。En: Meanwhile, he met a woman named Sakura.Ja: 桜は自由奔放な芸術家で、新しいインスピレーションを求めてこの場所を訪れていました。En: Sakura was a free-spirited artist, visiting the place in search of new inspiration.Ja: 彼女もまた、自分の進むべき道に迷いを感じていました。En: She, too, was feeling lost about the path she should take.Ja: 二人は偶然出会い、初めは互いに警戒し合っていました。En: The two met by chance, and at first, they were cautious of each other.Ja: 直樹は桜が自分の研究を妨げるのではないかと心配し、桜は直樹の意図が理解できずに距離を置こうとしていました。En: Naoki worried that Sakura might disrupt his research, while Sakura couldn't understand Naoki's intentions and tried to keep her distance.Ja: しかし、彼らはある不思議なアーティファクトに共に興味を示しました。En: However, they both showed interest in a mysterious artifact.Ja: それは一見、普通の古代の道具でしたが、どこか二人を引きつける力がありました。En: At first glance, it appeared to be an ordinary ancient tool, but it had a certain pull that captivated them.Ja: 互いに探求を続ける中で、直樹はこのアーティファクトの意味が自分一人ではわからないことに気付きます。En: As they continued their exploration together, Naoki realized he couldn't understand the artifact's meaning on his own.Ja: そして桜もまた、直樹の知識が必要であることを認めました。En: And Sakura also acknowledged that she needed Naoki's knowledge.Ja: そこで二人は協力する決断をします。En: So the two decided to collaborate.Ja: 共に遺跡を探索し、ついに隠された部屋を見つけます。En: Together, they explored the ruins and finally discovered a hidden room.Ja: その部屋には過去の秘密が詰まっており、彼らの力を結集して解読しなければなりませんでした。En: That room was filled with secrets of the past, and they needed to pool their strengths to decipher them.Ja: この中で彼らは自分自身の不安や疑念と向き合います。En: In the process, they confronted their own uncertainties and doubts.Ja: 最終的に直樹と桜は、遺跡の秘密を解き明かし、自分たちの長所が互いに補完し合っていることに気付きます。En: Ultimately, Naoki and Sakura unraveled the secrets of the ruins and realized that their strengths complemented each other.Ja: 二人は今後も協力し続けることを決め、そこには新たな絆が芽生え始めます。En: They decided to continue working together, and a new bond began to form.Ja: かすかに恋に発展するかもしれない兆しもありました。En: There was even a faint sign that it could develop into romance.Ja: 直樹は協力の大切さを学び、自信を持てるようになりました。En: Naoki learned the importance of collaboration and gained confidence.Ja: そして桜は芸術家としての進むべき道に明確な方向性を感じ、創造力に満ち溢れました。En: Meanwhile, Sakura felt a clear direction for her path as an artist and was brimming with creativity.Ja: 京都の古い遺跡の中で、二人は新しい未来を見つけたのです。En: In the old ruins of Kyoto, the two found a new future. Vocabulary Words:ancient: 古代ruins: 遺跡silence: 静けさlinger: 漂うmoss: 苔cobblestones: 石畳adorned: 施されたcarvings: 彫刻enveloping: 包み込むarchaeologist: 考古学者prove: 証明worth: 価値free-spirited: 自由奔放なinspiration: インスピレーションpath: 道cautious: 警戒disrupt: 妨げるintentions: 意図artifact: アーティファクトcaptivated: 引きつけるexploration: 探求acknowledged: 認めるcollaborate: 協力decipher: 解読uncertainties: 不安complemented: 補完bond: 絆romance: 恋confidence: 自信direction: 方向性

What happens when the wounds of Partition run deeper than history books will ever reveal? In this episode, Reenita Hora joins Tara to discuss her searing historical novel Vermilion Harvest, set against the haunting backdrop of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Through the fearless, curious eyes of protagonist Aruna, Reenita brings alive an often forgotten chapter of colonial brutality and the emotional legacy it left behind. They talk about the silencing of trauma, mixed-race identity, interfaith love, and how historical fiction can give voice to the stories that official narratives erase. Reenita also shares her journey to being an author and the exciting ways in which the book might find new life through music, theatre, or film.With equal parts heart and history, this episode explores the tension between legacy and liberation, and the quiet courage it takes to rewrite the script.Books, shows, and films mentioned in this episode:Love Story by Erich SegalTitanic (1997)Fault in Our Stars by John Green Operation Mom by Reenita HoraSundri and Mundri's Lohri Adventure by Reenita HoraToo Big to Fail by Andrew Ross SorkinJallianwala bagh, 1919 by Kishwar Desai____________________________________________________The Bound Publishing Course is a comprehensive, three-month-long, certified program designed to give people the skills, network, and opportunity to build a career in book, magazine, or digital publishing.You will take part in 100 hours of live online sessions, led by over 40 experienced industry professionals. The course moves from foundational learning to specialised career tracks through live simulations, in-class exercises, and assignments. This hands-on approach is supported by career-focused guidance, such as resume workshops and interview preparation, and culminates in a Capstone Project.You can explore more about the course here. Apply here! ____________________________________________________‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.

Send us a textAuthor and historian Roseanna White discusses fresh perspectives in oversaturated genres, how to write them, and gives tips on how to blend reality with fiction.▬Visit Roseanna's website:https://www.roseannamwhite.com/Find copies of her books:https://www.roseannamwhite.com/booksCheck out Roseanna's socials:https://www.tiktok.com/@RoseannaMWhitehttps://www.facebook.com/RoseannaMWhite/?fref=ts https://www.instagram.com/RoseannaMWhite/#

Elizabeth St. John, a Historical Fiction Author, chats about how her stories are grounded in her family's centuries-long history in England, and the importance of being relentless to uncover original archival sources.  St. John talks about her recent book, The King's Intelligencer; then sheds light on her public relations experiences with the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots.About Spotlight and Cloudcast Media  "Spotlight On The Community" is the longest running community podcast in the country, continuously hosted by Drew Schlosberg for 19 years.  "Spotlight" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.   About Mission Fed Credit Union  A community champion for over 60 years, Mission Fed Credit Union with over $6 billion in member assets, is the Sponsor of Spotlight On The Community, helping to curate connectivity, collaboration, and catalytic conversations.  For more information on the many services for San Diego residents, be sure to visit them at https://www.missionfed.com/

In this thought-provoking episode of Mindset Mastery Moments, Dr. Alisa Whyte welcomes Gwen McPhail—National Board Certified Teacher and author of My Place Among Them—for a heartfelt conversation on legacy, education, and the preservation of culture through storytelling.Gwen, writing under the pen name J. Stanion, shares the powerful inspiration behind her novel, which blends family history with critical themes of resilience, cultural preservation, political systems, and indigenous identity. Together, she and Dr. Alisa explore the lasting impact of early education—especially in marginalized communities—and the urgent need for empathy, critical thinking, and alignment with personal values in today's fast-paced world.From finishing her great-grandfather's manuscript about his experience on the Pine Ridge Reservation, to advocating for education reform, Gwen emphasizes that healing from historical trauma requires storytelling, community engagement, and a rejection of judgment in favor of compassion. This episode is a call to redefine success, re-center family values, and ensure every child's learning journey is rooted in truth, history, and humanity.

In this week's episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts Alisha Searcy and Helen Baxendale of Great Hearts Academies interview award-winning English historian and biographer, Dr. Juliet Barker. She offers a rich portrait of the Brontë family, whose timeless contributions have widely impacted English literature and fiction writing. Dr. Barker explores the formative influences of their father, Patrick Brontë, an Irish Anglican minister with deep intellectual, religious, and educational convictions that shaped his family's writing, and their tight-knit, creative environment in Haworth that inspired his gifted literary daughters Charlotte, Emily, and Anne. She delves into Charlotte's drive for self-improvement, the enduring power of her novel Jane Eyre, and its themes of independence, love, and social criticism. Dr. Barker discusses Emily's affection for nature, reclusive personality, and the intense emotional landscape of her novel, Wuthering Heights. She also explores Anne's gentle, strong-willed temperament, her novels Agnes Grey and The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, and their groundbreaking critiques of women's prescribed roles and the hypocrisies of 19th-century society. Dr. Barker shares insights about the tragic deaths of all six Brontë siblings, including Branwell, the family's son. She concludes the interview by discussing the sisters' lasting legacy as great literary women who revolutionized Victorian fiction and whose works continue to resonate with modern readers across the globe. In closing, she reads a passage from her definitive biography The Brontës.

Ted is joined by Nishant Batsha, whose second novel, A Bomb Placed Close to the Heart, was published this month by ecco/HarperCollins. He is also the author of Mother Ocean Father Nation (ecco/HarperCollins), which, among other honors, was named one of the best books of 2022 by NPR.Nishant holds a Ph.D. in history from Columbia University, so it's no surprise that his fiction draws heavily on real-life people and events. He describes this latest book as a “socialist, anti-colonial coming-of-age love story set in 1917,” one that is loosely based on a real-life couple, M.N. Roy and Evelyn Trent, who together founded the Communist Party of Mexico before an acrimonious divorce led to Roy basically writing Trent out of the history of the movement they led together.With A Bomb Placed Close to the Heart now out in the world, Nishant is at work on his next book. He and Ted talk about the circuitous route he's taken to get there, including an entire novel set in the present day that he finished writing before realizing he didn't want to deviate from historical fiction.Nishant discusses being a historian who wanted to become a novelist (compared to the other way around) and what that means for the way he approaches his writing. He then shares details about his work in progress, which is told from the perspective of a Civil War veteran who has left society behind to join a Shaker colony in Maine. Find Nishant and his books at nishantbatsha.com.Working Drafts episodes and info for requesting transcripts as well as more details about Ted and his books are available on his website, thetedfox.com.

Magic realism is an excellent way to articulate the inarticulable, to assert dissent, and to question order. Historical fiction is an amazing vehicle for examination of the past! Join Kimberly for a discussion of Russell's novel in the context of Gabriel García Márquez, Isabel Allende, and even Mary Karr. You'll come away with a better understanding of The Antidote, while gaining a broader sense of how TRUTH sometimes functions well in fiction and sometimes falls short.

Send us a textToday, we have a conversation that's very personal for me. I'm pleased to welcome author Dave Larsen to discuss his powerful new novel, Green Street in Black and White: A Chicago Story. I can relate to the story - I was born in Chicago, lived in Wheaton as a boy, and worked in my first role as a Youth Pastor in Maywood, when “white flight,” the fear-driven, racially charged mass exodus of whites to the suburbs, was in full swing.Dave takes us back to his childhood in 1960s Englewood on Chicago's South Side — a neighborhood on the cusp of racial transformation. Through the eyes of young Erik Pedersen and his band of friends, the Green Street Boys, we witness how ordinary families struggled with fear, prejudice, and white flight — but also how kids on bikes found friendship, loyalty, and glimmers of understanding across deep divides.Though fiction, the novel is steeped in Dave's own memories — from riding in his Irish uncle's squad car to watching his white church confront the arrival of Black families. We talk about it all: street smarts and playground humor, church politics, family tensions, and tragic turning points.Dave shares from his deep spiritual and academic roots — a Calvin College English degree, seminary at TEDS, and a doctorate from Loyola — to explore big questions: Can the church truly become a diverse place? Is racial reconciliation even possible?We reflect on the courage it takes to tell hard stories with no sugar-coated ending. And we hear why Green Street in Black and White matters — especially now.It's a heartfelt, honest episode I'm pleased to share. SHOW NOTESSupport the showBecome a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you! Ken's Substack Page The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Unveiling the Monastery's Secret: A Librarian's Quest Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2025-07-07-22-34-02-ca Story Transcript:Ca: Sota el cel blau d'estiu, el monestir de Montserrat s'elevava majestuosament entre els pics escarpats.En: Under the blue summer sky, the monastery of Montserrat rose majestically among the rugged peaks.Ca: A l'interior, la biblioteca guardava secrets antics, un lloc on la història podia sentir-se respirar.En: Inside, the library guarded ancient secrets, a place where history could be felt breathing.Ca: Llúcia, la bibliotecària, passava els seus dies ordenant llibres i buscant alguna cosa extraordinària que trenqués la seva rutina.En: Llúcia, the librarian, spent her days arranging books and searching for something extraordinary to break her routine.Ca: Un matí assolellat, Llúcia va descobrir un llibre estrany que no hi havia estat abans.En: One sunny morning, Llúcia discovered a strange book that hadn't been there before.Ca: Les seves cobertes eren de cuir gastat i no tenia títol.En: Its covers were of worn leather and it had no title.Ca: La curiositat la va dominar.En: Curiosity took over her.Ca: Va obrir-lo i va veure que l'escriptura estava en un idioma desconegut.En: She opened it and saw that the writing was in an unknown language.Ca: "Pere, vine, mira això," va dir Llúcia, assenyalant el llibre misteriós.En: "Pere, come, look at this," said Llúcia, pointing to the mysterious book.Ca: Pere, l'historiador local, sempre escèptic, va fer una ullada, inclinant-se cap a la seva opinió habitual.En: Pere, the local historian, always skeptical, glanced at it, leaning into his usual opinion.Ca: "És una broma, Llúcia.En: "It's a joke, Llúcia.Ca: Algú està jugant amb nosaltres.En: Someone is playing with us."Ca: "Montse, una investigadora nova a l'abadia, escoltava atentament.En: Montse, a new researcher at the abbey, listened attentively.Ca: El desig de fer una troballa important es va barrejar amb la por.En: The desire to make an important discovery mixed with fear.Ca: Ferdan alguna cosa sense proves podia afeblir la seva carrera.En: Making something of it without proof could weaken her career.Ca: "No estic segura," va murmurar.En: "I'm not sure," she murmured.Ca: Però Llúcia no es rendiria tan fàcilment.En: But Llúcia would not give up so easily.Ca: Va decidir investigar el llibre en secret.En: She decided to investigate the book in secret.Ca: "Montse, necessito la teva ajuda.En: "Montse, I need your help.Ca: Podem intentar desxifrar-ho juntes.En: We can try to decipher it together."Ca: "Aquella nit, a la llum tènue de les làmpades, van començar a treballar.En: That night, by the dim light of the lamps, they began to work.Ca: Cada pàgina revelava nous símbols i, finalment, van descobrir un missatge ocult.En: Each page revealed new symbols and, finally, they discovered a hidden message.Ca: Un mapa i símbols criptics emergien de la foscor del passat.En: A map and cryptic symbols emerged from the darkness of the past.Ca: "Això té significat," va xiuxiuejar Llúcia amb esperança renovada.En: "This has meaning," Llúcia whispered with renewed hope.Ca: L'endemà, Pere, ara interessat, es va unir a elles.En: The next day, Pere, now interested, joined them.Ca: Va voler una explicació lògica d'aquest enigma.En: He wanted a logical explanation for this enigma.Ca: "Podria ser autèntic," va admetre a contracor, sorprenent fins i tot ell mateix.En: "It could be authentic," he admitted reluctantly, surprising even himself.Ca: Guiats pel mapa, els tres van seguir el camí marcat pels signes.En: Guided by the map, the three followed the path marked by the signs.Ca: La recerca els va portar a una cambra amagada dins del monestir.En: The search led them to a hidden chamber within the monastery.Ca: Com van obrir la porta, una col·lecció d'artefactes històrics es va revelar davant els seus ulls.En: As they opened the door, a collection of historical artifacts was revealed before their eyes.Ca: Llúcia va somriure, satisfeta per haver seguit el seu instint.En: Llúcia smiled, satisfied for having followed her instinct.Ca: En Montse va sentir-se valorada i Pere va comprendre que no sempre es pot explicar tot amb la lògica.En: Montse felt valued, and Pere realized that not everything can always be explained with logic.Ca: El misteri del llibre havia canviat les seves vides per sempre, oferint noves aventures i una obertura cap al desconegut.En: The mystery of the book had changed their lives forever, offering new adventures and an opening towards the unknown.Ca: I així, entre les pedres antigues de Montserrat, la història va trobar un nou capítol en el món dels tres aventurers.En: And so, among the ancient stones of Montserrat, history found a new chapter in the world of the three adventurers.Ca: La llum del matí d'estiu brillava a través de les finestres, prometent aquells nous descobriments que només es troben quan creus en l'impossible.En: The light of the summer morning shone through the windows, promising those new discoveries that are only found when you believe in the impossible. Vocabulary Words:the monastery: el monestirthe peaks: els picsrugged: escarpatsthe library: la bibliotecaancient: anticsthe librarian: la bibliotecàriato arrange: ordenarextraordinary: extraordinàriaroutine: rutinaworn: gastacuriosity: curiositatthe historian: l'historiadorskeptical: escèpticthe researcher: la investigadorato murmur: murmurarto investigate: investigarsecret: secretto decipher: desxifrarto reveal: revelarsymbols: símbolscryptic: crípticthe darkness: la foscorto whisper: xiuxiuejarthe map: el mapathe chamber: la cambraartifacts: artefactesto smile: somriureinstinct: instintadventure: aventurato promise: prometre

Frances Quinn is a journalist, copywriter and bestselling author. Her new novel, 'The Lost Passenger', tells the story of Elinor Coombes, who boards the Titanic trapped in an unhappy marriage to a controlling husband. When it starts to go down, she sees an opportunity to escape for a new life.Frances began writing after winning a place on the Curtis Brown Creative Novel Writing Course, which led through a meandering path toward publication in 2021. Her debut was 'The Smallest Man'. She followed that up with 'That Bonesetter Woman', which both sold well, yet didn't manage to secure international rights. You can hear what Frances did to learn about foreign markets, in order to get her newest novel sold overseas.As a journalist and copywriter, Frances has written for 'Good Housekeeping', 'Woman's Weekly', and 'Ideal Home', also producing words for Waitrose and Easyjet. We discuss how this has influenced the novels she writes, and why she's forever thankful to her editor.We discuss genre, research, and how Frances learns about her character while having decided exactly what they're up to.You can hear why she's a moany writer, why she likes to exercise early, and why she still keeps office hours.Support the show at - patreon.com/writersroutineko-fi.com/writersroutineGet a copy of the book - uk.bookshop.org/shop/writersroutineIf you have science-mad kids, come and see my science-mad show this summer - funkidslive.com/tourSubscribe to the newsletter - writersroutine.substack.com@writerspodwritersroutine.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Patron Saint of Unreliable Narration• ⁠⁠⁠The Weird (ed. Ann & Jeff VanderMeer)⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠Dangerous Visions (ed. Harlan Ellison)⁠⁠⁠ • ⁠⁠⁠Patreon (Free Bonus Episodes)⁠⁠⁠ • Email us at genrepodcast@gmail.com

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Roni Robbins, author of the book Hands of Gold. Hands of Gold capitalizes on Roni Robbins' nearly four decades as a published writer: a staff reporter for daily and weekly newspapers; a freelancer for national, regional, and digital publications. She is currently a freelance reporter for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and Medscape/WebMD, where she was previously an editor after serving as associate editor of the Atlanta Jewish Times.   Hands of Gold won, among others, the 2023 International Book Awards for multicultural fiction and the 2023 Global Book Awards gold medal for biographical-survival. In addition to the fiction awards, Robbins won three Simon Rockower Awards for Jewish journalism, including an investigative piece about Jewish seniors who feel “Out of Touch” in nursing homes. Hands of Gold begins and ends in a nursing home.   Selected as a touring author with the prestigious Jewish Book Council, Robbins appeared in one of the nation's largest Jewish book festivals. Hands of Gold consistently ranks high on Amazon's bestseller lists for biographical literary fiction and Holocaust biographies.   In my book review, I stated Hands of Gold is an amazing Jewish historical fiction. According to Roni, the story is loosely based on her Hungarian grandfather, but rather than write a family memoir, she chose to write a historical fiction about Sam Fox.   We meet Sam, first at his dying wife's side, and then travel back to see him as a young boy in Hungary at the turn of the 20th century. Sam's life is never easy. From Jewish hardships in the old country, to fleeing from Hungarian conscription, to stealing into first Canada, and then the US, to illness and poverty, Sam figures out how to find joy in a life that continuously throws him lemons.   And now, after 65 years of marriage, his dying wife, Hannah, tasks him with telling their children their parents' real history - with all the secrets - even secrets they have kept from one another.   This story is a wonderful family saga, filled with Jewish history and culture, determination, and religion. I found the details fascinating and often wondered which parts were true family history and which were merely the figment of Roni's imagination. I loved the book and believe you will, too!   Subscribe to Online for Authors to learn about more great books! https://www.youtube.com/@onlineforauthors?sub_confirmation=1   Join the Novels N Latte Book Club community to discuss this and other books with like-minded readers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3576519880426290   You can follow Author Roni Robbins Website: https://www.ronirobbins.com/ FB: @roni.k.robbins X: @ronirobbins LinkedIn: @ronirobbins IG: @roni.robbins TikTok: @handsofgoldnovel   Purchase Hands of Gold on Amazon: Paperback: https://amzn.to/436tjq9 Ebook: https://amzn.to/4j0y3Uo   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   Want to be a guest on Online for Authors? Send Teri M Brown a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/member/onlineforauthors   #ronirobbins #handsofgold #historicalfiction #jewishfiction #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

In this week's episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts Alisha Searcy and U-Arkansas Prof. Albert Cheng interview John Burt, the Paul Prosswimmer Professor of American Literature at Brandeis University. Prof. Burt offers rich insight into the life and work of one of the 20th century's greatest American writers, Robert Penn Warren. Raised in rural southwestern Kentucky, Warren was deeply shaped by the legacy of the Civil War, which he explored in his influential 1961 work, The Legacy of the Civil War, and throughout his poetry and fiction. Prof. Burt shares that as a young man at Vanderbilt, Warren was influenced by the “Fugitives” literary group and contributed to I'll Take My Stand: The South and the Agrarian Tradition, a decision he later deeply regretted. His Pulitzer-winning novel All the King's Men follows the rise and fall of populist governor Willie Stark, modeled in part on Huey Long and Julius Caesar, through the eyes of journalist Jack Burden, whose personal and philosophical journey mirrors Stark's. Prof. Burt shares that the novel wrestles with the limits of knowledge and the weight of moral responsibility, culminating in a powerful meditation on time, history, and the human condition.

Exploring Colonial India Through A Historical Murder Mystery• ⁠⁠The Weird (ed. Ann & Jeff VanderMeer)⁠⁠• ⁠⁠Dangerous Visions (ed. Harlan Ellison)⁠⁠ • ⁠⁠Patreon (Free Bonus Episodes)⁠⁠ • Email us at genrepodcast@gmail.com

Catherine Ross, the Director of Library at Auckland Grammar School, reviews a selection of books for teenage readers, focusing on a theme of historical fiction. Private Peaceful by Sir Micheal Morpurgo, Rabbit Soldier Angel Thief by Katrina Nannested, The Blackbird Girls by Anna Blankman, The Phoenix Crown by Kate Quinn and Janie Chang and for ages 14 plus, The Terror by Dan Simmonds.

Brotherhood is more than skin-deep. After Alex's family is killed by the Ku Klux Klan during the Great Depression, he takes refuge in the barn of a nearby dairy farm. The family that owns the dairy, including their young son Pete, take in Alex and raise the boys together. Pete and Alex consider themselves brothers and together they navigate the Jim Crow racial intolerance of the rural South. Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Roger Newman on his Nautilus award-winning book Boys: A Novel, based on a true story.  Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET 1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate!  https://www.kmet1490am.comIn addition to Boys which is based on a true story, Roger Newman is the author of a series of medical thrillers: Occam's Razor, Two Drifters, and What Becomes; and a Civil War historical fiction novel Will O' the Wisp: Madness, War, and Recompense. He is a professor of obstetrics and gynecology, specializing in the care of women with multiple gestations. He has authored two hundred scientific papers, a dozen book chapters, and the award-winning and bestselling When You're Expecting Twins, Triplets, or Quads; Fourth Edition. He served as the national president for the Society forMaternal-Fetal Medicine and has been voted by his peers as one of the “Best Doctors in America” for thirty consecutive years. He and his wife, Diane, live on the Ashley River in Charleston, South Carolina. https://rogerbnewman.com Order Boys on Amazon: https://a.co/d/9exs9vCFor more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

Who is the real genius: the dog, the toddler or the scientist? Today we are talking about Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus, a book about feminism, sodium chloride and competitive rowing. Let us know if you had kids reheating leftovers for lunch in elementry school.WARNING: Sexual assualt, sexism, suicide, child abuse, death, sexual harrassmentBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/book-cult--5718878/support.

Welcome back to another episode of Spun Today. In this episode, I dive into a creative review and breakdown of the film Sinners, written and directed by Ryan Coogler. I pull out writing insights, character craft, and the power of blending personal history with big genre themes—sharing lessons any writer or creative can use to fuel their own work.   But that's just the beginning. I also recount the unforgettable experience of seeing comedian, writer, and director Mo Amer live in New York City, and what it meant to meet a creative whose storytelling is as universal as it is personal.   Plus, I touch on big podcast news, including Marc Maron's announcement that the legendary WTF podcast is coming to an end after over 1600 episodes and 16 years.   Whether you're a writer seeking inspiration, a fan of genre-bending stories, or just someone looking to stay in the loop with creative culture, this episode is for you. So settle in—let's explore the art of storytelling, the magic of live comedy, and the evolving world of podcasts, all through the ever-creative lens of Spun Today.   The Spun Today Podcast is a Podcast that is anchored in Writing & Random Rants, but unlimited in scope.  Give it a whirl.    Twitter: https://twitter.com/spuntoday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spuntoday/ Website: http://www.spuntoday.com/home Newsletter: http://www.spuntoday.com/subscribe   Links referenced in this episode:     SINNERS BREAKDOWN! Easter Eggs & Details You Missed! https://youtu.be/O80E59y2KOY?si=qcdF_aQbaRNAVYy0   SINNERS Breakdown and Ending Explained! https://youtu.be/9joTyJfKjEU?si=tLAdApNimQxUZflK   Every Sinners Easter Egg EXPLAINED in 6 Minutes! https://youtu.be/2MO08i6sm08?si=s0DcEeqtObT7Q7a4   JAY-Z - 4:44 https://youtu.be/zSkA61esq_c?si=Iztsm9SKpcgdHtwi   Ryan Coogler & Ludwig Göransson | Friends Like These https://youtu.be/Rz3xHhOLK6M?si=7Tr09vS4CWeglMX5   “Sinners”: Director Ryan Coogler on His Latest Hit, Delta Blues, His Mississippi Roots & Vampires https://youtu.be/Pjb_eH0C_vQ?si=wJDgMtwybI2hIfrM   Marc Maron is ending WTF: https://www.theguardian.com/media/2025/jun/03/marc-maron-wtf-podcast-ending-five-best-interviews   https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/pop-culture-news/marc-maron-wtf-podcast-ending-fall-rcna210372   Get your Podcast Started Today! https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=SPUN (Use Promo code SPUN and get up to 2-months of free service!) Check out all the Spun Today Merch, and other ways to help support this show! https://www.spuntoday.com/support   Check out my Books Melted Cold – A Collection of Short Stories FRACTAL – A Time Travel Tale Make Way for You – Tips for getting out of your own way http://www.spuntoday.com/books/ (e-Book, Paperback & Hardcover are now available).   Fill out my Spun Today Questionnaire if you're passionate about your craft.  I'll share your insight and motivation on the Podcast: http://www.spuntoday.com/questionnaire/    Shop on Amazon using this link, to support the Podcast: https://amzn.to/4km592l     Shop on iTunes using this link, to support the Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTop?genreId=38&id=27820&popId=42&uo=10   Shop at the Spun Today store for Mugs, Notebooks, T-Shirts and more: https://spuntoday-shop.fourthwall.com/   Music: https://www.purple-planet.com   Outro Background Music: https://www.bensound.com   Spun Today Logo by: https://www.naveendhanalak.com/   Sound effects are credited to: http://www.freesfx.co.uk   Listen on: ApplePodcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Website

Can we claim hope and purpose in challenges? Tina Yeager sits down with the prolific and award-winning author Jane Ann Kirkpatrick, whose passion for historical fiction has led her to write over 40 books about courageous women overcoming personal trials. Together, they explore how we can find purpose in our challenges—whether we're facing the struggles of young motherhood, separation from loved ones, financial hardship, or the deep pain of grief. Facing Hardship with Purpose Jane dives deep into why overcoming trials is a recurring theme in her novels—especially her latest, Across the Crying Sands. Drawing on personal experiences and her research on pioneering women, Jane shares how these historical figures managed to build meaningful lives even when resources were slim and options limited. Their secret? Resilience, faith, and finding community, even in the harshest conditions. Modern Parallels for Today's Women Jane's stories resonate with single moms and young mothers today. The women she writes about faced loneliness, family separation, and the daily uncertainties of frontier life. Jane encourages us to look for “the rungs of the ladder” to climb out of tough places—leaning on faith, building community, and being open to help from others. One standout message: independence is vital, but so is knowing when to reach out for support. Purpose and vision anchor us through difficulties, and community sustains us when we can't do it alone. Turning Challenges into Creativity Jane shares a memorable reader story—how one woman facing the anxiety of having a deployed spouse chose to create her own support circle. Instead of lingering in worry, she formed a family book club, finding agency and connection. It's a beautiful reminder that, as Jane says, “when things are tough, don't complain, create.” She also urges us to make the most of what we have—whether it's creating economical solutions for our families or choosing to gather at the table for a meal. Small, intentional moments matter. Grief, Comfort, and Community Grief is a universal challenge, and Jane addresses it with sensitivity. Drawing from both her novels and years in mental health, she stresses the importance of honoring grief while looking for transformation and comfort. Sometimes, just being present for someone is the greatest gift. A Quick Tip to Carry Forward Jane leaves us with a beautiful charge—to trust the power you have to make a difference in someone's life. Simple gestures—smiles, encouragement, even a kind word—can become defining moments for those around us. Stay Connected with Jane Ann Kirkpatrick Learn more about Jane's books and get inspired through her monthly StorySparks newsletter at jkbooks.com. You'll also find links to order her novels (including Across the Crying Sands) at a discount from Baker Publishing, and see what's new on her author Facebook and Instagram pages. Drawing from her latest novel, Across the Crying Sands, Jane shares the real-life journey of a young woman on the Oregon frontier who discovered meaning amid adversity by stepping into a groundbreaking role as the region's first postmistress. Through both historical insights and heartfelt audience stories, Jane and Tina discuss the enduring power of faith, community, resilience, and the importance of seeking support when times get tough. If you're searching for hope and wisdom to navigate your own challenges, you won't want to miss this inspiring conversation packed with encouragement, practical tips, and timeless truths. Tune in for an episode sure to spark creativity, compassion, and renewed purpose in every season of life. We're thrilled to accompany you on this journey of faith, growth, and transformation. As always, we appreciate your support! Please subscribe and share this episode. We can't wait for you to join us for future episodes of Flourish-Meant. To book Tina as a speaker, connect with her life coaching services, and more, visit her website: https://tinayeager.com/ Optimize your mind and body with my new favorite, all-inclusive supplement, Cardio Miracle! I love the energy and focus this health-boosting drink mix provides without toxins, caffeine, or sugar! Get a discount on your purchase with my link: http://www.cardiomiracle.com/tinayeager Use the code TINA10 at checkout.  

Esther thought of herself as a reluctant reader until she read John Irving's, The World According to Garp in her teens. From that day on, she discovered that she loves books! These days, she mostly listens to audiobooks. Esther's writing career grew from the stories she told her children. Book after book poured out of her as she began to put the words down on paper. She also shares her deep knowledge of storytelling, Judaism, and faith through teaching and speaking work (connect with Esther here to learn more). Find her Desert Song Trilogy here: https://www.esthergoldenberg.com/booksJoin me at the Spark to Story Summit: https://katcaldwell.com/spark-to-storyListen to the Across the English Channel teaser: https://katcaldwell.com/audio-teaser-aecYou can order Across the English Channel from Amazon, Kobo or directly from me.

This week's guest is the phenomenally bestselling author, Simon Scarrow. He mainly writes historical fiction, best known for his 'Eagles of the Empire' series, and has written about Ancient Rome and Nazi Germany too. He's also published futuristic sci-fi, and began writing dystopian fiction and comedy, before realising he should write what he wants to read, not what he thought might sell.Simon has sold more than 6 million books, and has been translated into 25 languages. His passion for storytelling was perfected at boarding school, learning how to engage class-mates, and keep them hooked with a daring cliff-hanger. He then expanded this passion as a teacher, before finally becoming the author he always wanted to be.His new novel is 'A Death in Berlin'. It's an Inspector Schenke book, with a tale about the exceptional investigator fighting to keep criminals off the streets of Nazi Berlin at a time of war. We discuss the inspiration for the novel, and what he does to pull together a threadbare skeleton to write with.You can hear why he's a stickler for the rules of historical fiction, also why he's inspired to write new series, and why the great illusion of writing is something you can fall prey to... instead, get on with it!Get a copy of the book at uk.bookshop.org/writersroutineSupport the show at -patreon.com/writersroutineko-fi.com/writersroutine@writerspodwritersroutine.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this bonus episode Sebastian responds to listener questions and comments about the Spartan series. He gets a chance to give some more details about the Helots and Spartan women. He also muses at length about the role of historical fiction. If you want to be part of the next bonus feel free to send an email to ourfakehistory@gmail.com.Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code FAKEHISTORY at the link below and get 60% off anannual plan: http://incogni.com/fakehistorySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.