Podcasts about Historical fiction

After spending years tracking Al Qaeda, former analyst Gina Bennett talks to  SpyTalk about her storied career, her new spy novel and the rising threat of "politicized misogyny." Gina BennettIf Two of Them Are Dead Follow Jeff Stein on Twitter:https://twitter.com/SpyTalkerFollow Karen Greenberg on Twitterhttps://x.com/KarenGreenberg3Follow Michael Isikoff on Twitter:https://twitter.com/isikoff Follow SpyTalk on Twitter:https://twitter.com/talk_spySubscribe to SpyTalk on Substack https://www.spytalk.co/Take our listener survey where you can give us feedback.http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=short Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ellen Butler is the international bestselling author of the Karina Cardinal mystery series, praised by Publishers Weekly as “intelligent escapism.” Drawing on her real-life experience working on Capitol Hill and with a medical association in Washington, D.C., Butler infuses her fast-paced mystery-action novels with authenticity and intrigue.In addition to her contemporary thrillers, Butler writes the Ariadne Winter historical mysteries and award-winning historical spy fiction. Her novel The Brass Compass has earned numerous accolades, including the Speak Up Talk Radio Firebird Book Award, the IndieReader Discovery Award, and a Readers' Favorite Silver Medal for Historical Fiction.The sequel, Operation Blackbird: A Cold War Spy Novel, was inspired by true events and went on to win the prestigious Next Generation Indie Book Award gold medal for historical fiction. Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/EllenButlerBooksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebutlerbooks/BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/ellen-butlerWebsite: https:///www.ellenbutler.net*****************About SinCSisters in Crime (SinC) was founded in 1986 to promote the ongoing advancement, recognition and professional development of women crime writers. Through advocacy, programming and leadership, SinC empowers and supports all crime writers regardless of genre or place on their career trajectory.www.SistersinCrime.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sincnational/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sincnational.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@sincnationalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sistersincrimeTikTok:: https://www.tiktok.com/@sincnationalThe SinC Writers' Podcast is produced by Julian Crocamo https://www.juliancrocamo.com/

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Sanne's Odyssey: A Voice Amidst Ancient Greek Philosophy Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-10-27-22-34-02-nl Story Transcript:Nl: In het oude Griekenland, als de herfstbladeren zachtjes ritselen, bereidde Sanne zich voor op haar reis naar Athene.En: In ancient Greece, as the autumn leaves gently rustled, Sanne prepared for her journey to Athene.Nl: Ze liep langs rijen eeuwenoude olijfbomen, terwijl de avondzon de lucht met een gouden gloed kleurde.En: She walked past rows of ancient olive trees, while the evening sun painted the sky with a golden glow.Nl: Sanne was vastbesloten om deel te nemen aan het filosofische symposium.En: Sanne was determined to participate in the philosophical symposium.Nl: Het was haar kans om haar ideeën te delen en te laten zien dat haar stem net zo waardevol was als die van elke andere filosoof.En: It was her chance to share her ideas and show that her voice was just as valuable as that of any other philosopher.Nl: Sanne was niet alleen op reis.En: Sanne was not traveling alone.Nl: Ze werd vergezeld door haar vrienden Dirk en Mila.En: She was accompanied by her friends Dirk and Mila.Nl: Dirk was sterk en betrouwbaar, altijd klaar om te helpen waar nodig.En: Dirk was strong and reliable, always ready to help where needed.Nl: Mila had een snelle geest en een wijze blik die haar ouder deed lijken dan ze was.En: Mila had a quick mind and a wise look that made her seem older than she was.Nl: Ze waren er om Sanne te steunen, zeker nu ze wist dat het symposium een uitdaging zou worden, gezien het feit dat vrouwelijke denkers vaak werden genegeerd.En: They were there to support Sanne, especially now she knew that the symposium would be a challenge, given the fact that female thinkers were often ignored.Nl: De weg naar Athene was lang en vol verhalen over helden en goden die in het rond zongen.En: The road to Athene was long and full of songs about heroes and gods.Nl: Terwijl ze verder reisden, bespraken ze hun verwachtingen.En: As they traveled further, they discussed their expectations.Nl: Sanne legde haar plannen uit: "Ik wil spreken tijdens het open forum.En: Sanne explained her plans: "I want to speak during the open forum.Nl: Dit is mijn kans om mijn ideeën te delen."En: This is my chance to share my ideas."Nl: Die nacht, onder de sterrenhemel, spraken ze over de legendes van Griekenland terwijl de herfstkou hen samenbracht rond een klein kampvuur.En: That night, under the starry sky, they spoke about the legends of Greece as the autumn chill brought them together around a small campfire.Nl: Ze vertelden verhalen over vroeger, maar Sanne's gedachten waren bij wat komen ging.En: They told stories of the past, but Sanne's thoughts were on what was to come.Nl: Bij zonsopgang kwamen ze aan in Athene.En: At sunrise, they arrived in Athene.Nl: De stad was levendig en vol bedrijvigheid.En: The city was lively and busy.Nl: Mensen vierden Halloween, een feest dat hen door de donkere uren van de herfst leidde.En: People were celebrating Halloween, a festival that guided them through the dark hours of autumn.Nl: Het was traditie om verhalen te vertellen over oude geesten en het verleden, en voor Sanne was het ook een moment om haar eigen verhaal te beginnen.En: It was traditional to tell stories of ancient spirits and the past, and for Sanne, it was also a moment to begin her own story.Nl: In de marmeren zaal van het symposium vielen de schaduwen lang en vriendelijk.En: In the marble hall of the symposium, the shadows fell long and kindly.Nl: Sanne voelde de ogen op haar gericht.En: Sanne felt the eyes on her.Nl: De meeste filosofen waren mannen, en sommigen keken sceptisch naar haar.En: Most of the philosophers were men, and some looked at her skeptically.Nl: Met een schuchtere stap liep ze naar voren.En: With a shy step, she walked forward.Nl: Ze wist dat dit het moment was om haar twijfel opzij te zetten.En: She knew this was the moment to set aside her doubts.Nl: "Vrienden en denkers," begon Sanne, haar stem ferm en vastberaden.En: "Friends and thinkers," began Sanne, her voice firm and determined.Nl: Ze sprak over rechtvaardigheid, waarheid en de kracht van ideeën.En: She spoke about justice, truth, and the power of ideas.Nl: Terwijl ze sprak, raakte ze diep in haar eigen gedachten verzonken en vergat ze zelfs de sceptische blikken.En: As she spoke, she became deeply absorbed in her own thoughts, forgetting even the skeptical looks.Nl: Haar passie gaf haar kracht, en langzaam veranderde de scepsis in nieuwsgierigheid.En: Her passion gave her strength, and slowly skepticism turned into curiosity.Nl: De stilte na haar toespraak was kort, gevold door applaus.En: The silence after her speech was brief, followed by applause.Nl: Niet iedereen was overtuigd, maar genoeg mensen hadden naar haar geluisterd.En: Not everyone was convinced, but enough people had listened to her.Nl: Sanne glimlachte dankbaar.En: Sanne smiled gratefully.Nl: Ze had niet alleen hun aandacht gewonnen, maar ook hun respect.En: She had not only won their attention but also their respect.Nl: Toen de zon achter de heuvels verdween, voelde Sanne zich veranderd.En: As the sun disappeared behind the hills, Sanne felt changed.Nl: Ze wist nu dat haar stem gehoord zou worden, ongeacht de hindernissen.En: She knew now that her voice would be heard, regardless of the obstacles.Nl: Terwijl ze de zaal verliet met Dirk en Mila aan haar zijde, wist ze dat er nog veel werk te doen was.En: As she left the hall with Dirk and Mila by her side, she knew there was still much work to be done.Nl: Maar nu voelde ze zich sterker, zekerder van haar kracht als denker in de grote wereld van de filosofie.En: But now she felt stronger, more confident in her power as a thinker in the great world of philosophy. Vocabulary Words:ancient: oudeautumn: herfstrustled: ritselenphilosophical: filosofischesymposium: symposiumdetermined: vastbeslotenparticipate: deelnemenvaluable: waardevolreliable: betrouwbaaraccompanied: vergezeldwise: wijzechallenge: uitdagingignored: genegeerdjourney: reisexpectations: verwachtingenforum: forumlegends: legendescampfire: kampvuurlively: levendigcelebrating: vierdentraditional: traditiemarble: marmerenshadows: schaduwenskeptically: sceptischdetermined: vastberadenjustice: rechtvaardigheidabsorbed: verzonkencuriosity: nieuwsgierigheidapplause: applausobstacles: hindernissen

Fluent Fiction - Hebrew: Hidden Scrolls: A Tale of Rediscovery & Friendship Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/he/episode/2025-10-27-22-34-02-he Story Transcript:He: בירושלים העתיקה, ספרייה נסתרת עוטפת סודות רבים מהעבר.En: In the old city of Yerushalayim, a hidden library envelops many secrets from the past.He: הירוק של עלי השלכת נופל ברכות על מדרגות האבן, בעוד השמש מאירה את הדפים המאובקים באור זהבהב.En: The green of the fallen autumn leaves gently descends on the stone steps while the sun illuminates the dusty pages with a golden light.He: ירק חן עדין עוטף את הספרים הישנים, ולוחש סיפורים נשכחים של עולם עתיק.En: A delicate green wraps the old books, whispering forgotten stories of an ancient world.He: יאיר, חוקר שקט ובודד כמעט כל הזמן עם אהבה לשפות עתיקות, מצא את מקומו כאן.En: Yair, a quiet and almost always lonely researcher with a love for ancient languages, found his place here.He: הוא בחן בסבלנות מסמכים עתיקים, אבל היה רדוף בספקות עצמיים תמידיים.En: He patiently examined ancient documents but was constantly haunted by self-doubt.He: כלל לא ידע שאותו יום יביא עמו גילוי מדהים.En: Little did he know that this day would bring with it an amazing discovery.He: כשיאיר פתח קופסה עתיקה מאחור המדף העליון, נפל ממנו מגילה ישנה שכתובה בכתב מסתורי.En: When Yair opened an ancient box from the back of the top shelf, an old scroll written in mysterious script fell from it.He: אף אחד בספרייה לא הכיר אותו.En: No one in the library recognized it.He: יאיר ניסע להתרכז ולהתעמק במגילה, אך קולותיהם של החוקרים האחרים מלאו בציניות לצדקו.En: Yair tried to concentrate and delve into the scroll, but the voices of other researchers filled with cynicism challenged his resolve.He: אחד מהם אפילו אמר, "זה סתם קישקושים, הזמן מתבזבז.En: One of them even said, "It's just gibberish, time wasted."He: "כשהספרייה היתה בשלבי סגירה לחג הסוכות הקרב, יאיר הבין שיש לו זמן מוגבל לפענח את התעלומה.En: As the library was in the process of closing for the upcoming holiday of Sukkot, Yair realized he had limited time to solve the mystery.He: הוא הרגיש בדידות וכבדות באוויר, אך היה בעיצומו של אמונה פנימית כי יש בידיו תגלית משמעותית.En: He felt loneliness and heaviness in the air but was in the midst of an inner belief that he was onto a significant discovery.He: תמר, חברתו הוותיקה ומומחית בהיסטוריה, ידעה שיאיר חייב להיכנס אל הספרייה אחרי שעות.En: Tamar, his longtime friend and an expert in history, knew Yair had to get into the library after hours.He: "אנחנו נעשה את זה ביחד," אמרה והוא הסכים, אף שידע שיש להם הרבה מה להפסיד.En: "We'll do it together," she said, and he agreed, even though he knew they had much to lose.He: בלילה, בעוד הכוכבים רועדים על גג הספרייה, הם נכנסו בחשאי.En: At night, as the stars trembled over the library roof, they entered stealthily.He: בחדר הריק, יאיר ותמר חיפשו רמזים ופתרונות להצופן.En: In the empty room, Yair and Tamar searched for clues and solutions to the code.He: השעות חלפו ויאיר הרגיש את חום הלחץ, אבל תמר היתה לשם להזכיר לו שעליהם להמשיך.En: Hours passed, and Yair felt the heat of the pressure, but Tamar was there to remind him that they must continue.He: אז, רגע לפני עלות השחר, פתרון התחיל להתבהר.En: Then, just before dawn, a solution began to emerge.He: יאיר זיהה דפוס מתוך המסמכים – קשר לדיאלקט עתיק ונשכח.En: Yair identified a pattern from the documents—a connection to an ancient and forgotten dialect.He: הגילוי היה מלא בתובנות היסטוריות מפעימות.En: The discovery was filled with stunning historical insights.He: בשובה מהחג, יאיר ותמר הציגו את ממצאיהם לחוקרים, שמתחילה להטילו ספק בהם.En: Upon returning from the holiday, Yair and Tamar presented their findings to the researchers, who initially doubted them.He: אך עם ההסברים וההוכחות שלהם, החוקרים לא יכלו להסתיר את ההפתעה וההערכה.En: But with their explanations and proofs, the researchers could not hide their surprise and appreciation.He: יאיר, לראשונה, ראה את עבודתו מוערכת.En: Yair, for the first time, saw his work appreciated.He: במהלך החג, בזמן שישבו בסוכה מקושטת, יאיר חש בגאווה ובביטחון שלא ראה בעבר.En: During the holiday, as they sat in a decorated sukkah, Yair felt a pride and confidence he had never known before.He: תמר חייכה אליו, והם ידעו שחברותם התחזקה בדרכם המשותפת.En: Tamar smiled at him, and they knew their friendship had been strengthened through their shared journey.He: וכך, באור הרך של הסוכה הגדושה בבשמים מתוקים, יאיר ידע כי יוכלו להתגבר על כל מכשול שיעמוד בדרכם.En: And so, in the soft light of the sukkah filled with sweet fragrances, Yair knew they could overcome any obstacle in their path.He: התחושה כי הוא יכול לעשות הבדל אמיתי ליוותה אותו עוד רבות.En: The feeling that he could make a real difference accompanied him long after. Vocabulary Words:envelops: עוטפתdescends: נופל ברכותilluminates: מאירהdelicate: חן עדיןwhispering: לוחשresearcher: חוקרhaunted: רדוףself-doubt: ספקות עצמייםdiscovery: גילויcynicism: ציניותresolve: לצדקוstealthily: בחשאיsolution: פתרוןpattern: דפוסdialect: דיאלקטinsights: תובנותdoubted: להטילו ספקconfidence: ביטחוןobstacle: מכשולautumn: עלי השלכתsukkah: סוכהfragrances: בשמיםtrembled: רועדיםempty: ריקpressure: לחץemerge: להתבהרexplained: הסבריםappreciated: מוערכתbelief: אמונהsignificant: משמעותיתBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fluent-fiction-hebrew--5818690/support.

Fluent Fiction - Hungarian: A Mesopotamian Quest: Healing, Wisdom, and Hope Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hu/episode/2025-10-27-22-34-02-hu Story Transcript:Hu: A nap már lemenőben volt az ősi mezopotámiai város felett.En: The sun was setting over the ancient Mesopotamian city.Hu: Az őszi napfény meleg árnyalatokkal festette meg az agyagtéglákból emelt házakat, és a levelek aranyszínű forgatagban táncoltak a levegőben.En: The autumn sunlight painted the houses made of clay bricks with warm tones, and the leaves danced in a golden swirl in the air.Hu: Bálint sietve haladt át a piactéren, szíve súlyos terhet cipelve.En: Bálint hurried across the marketplace, carrying a heavy burden in his heart.Hu: Zsófia, a felesége, egy titokzatos betegség kényszerítette ágyba.En: Zsófia, his wife, had been bedridden by a mysterious illness.Hu: A helyi könyvtár sötét és régi volt.En: The local library was dark and old.Hu: Polcai poros agyagtáblákkal roskadoztak.En: Its shelves were weighed down with dusty clay tablets.Hu: Bálint hetek óta töltötte idejét itt, keresve a gyógymódot.En: Bálint had been spending his time here for weeks, searching for a cure.Hu: De ahogy a nap órái múltak, a remény egyre jobban homályosodott.En: But as the hours of the day passed, hope grew increasingly dim.Hu: Tudta, hogy nincs sok ideje.En: He knew he did not have much time.Hu: Zsófia állapota gyorsan romlott.En: Zsófia's condition was quickly deteriorating.Hu: Bálint eddig mindent megpróbált, de semmi sem segített.En: Bálint had tried everything so far, but nothing helped.Hu: Ekkor döntött úgy, hogy felkeresi Istvánt, az idősebb gyógyítót.En: It was then he decided to seek out István, the elder healer.Hu: István bölcs és tapasztalt volt, bár Bálint sokáig habozott hozzá fordulni.En: István was wise and experienced, although Bálint had hesitated for a long time to turn to him.Hu: Félt, hogy a segítség kérése a saját kudarcának jele.En: He feared that asking for help would be a sign of his own failure.Hu: István kis házában dohány- és gyógynövényillata lengte körül a levegőt.En: István's small house was filled with the scent of tobacco and herbs.Hu: Amikor Bálint belépett, az öreg gyógyító egy kedves mosollyal fogadta.En: When Bálint entered, the old healer greeted him with a kind smile.Hu: "Tudtam, hogy előbb-utóbb találkozunk" – mondta bölcsen.En: "I knew we would meet sooner or later," he said wisely.Hu: Bálint elmondta neki a helyzetet, és István végighallgatta.En: Bálint told him about the situation, and István listened attentively.Hu: "Itt van egy tekercs, amit érdemes lenne átnézni" – mondta István, és egy régi, szinte bomladozó papírlapot adott át Bálintnak.En: "Here is a scroll that you might find worth reviewing," István said, handing Bálint an old, nearly crumbling piece of paper.Hu: A tekercsen ősi szimbólumok sorakoztak.En: The scroll was covered with ancient symbols.Hu: Bálint késő estig dolgozott rajta, míg végül megfejtett egy titkos receptet.En: Bálint worked on it until late at night, finally deciphering a secret recipe.Hu: Másnap reggel, mielőtt a nap felkelt volna, Bálint összeszedte a szükséges összetevőket.En: The next morning, before sunrise, Bálint gathered the necessary ingredients.Hu: Gyömbérgyökér, mák, és néhány ritka fűszernövény került a gyógyitalba.En: Ginger root, poppy seeds, and a few rare herbs went into the medicinal drink.Hu: Zsófiának adta az elkészült italt, szíve tele reménnyel és félelemmel.En: He gave the completed drink to Zsófia, his heart filled with hope and fear.Hu: Az órák múltával csoda történt.En: As the hours passed, a miracle happened.Hu: Zsófia légzése egyre könnyedebbé vált, arca visszanyerte régi színét.En: Zsófia's breathing became increasingly effortless, and the color returned to her face.Hu: A betegség lassan visszavonulót fújt, és Bálint el sem hitte, hogy sikerült – megmentette a feleségét.En: The illness slowly retreated, and Bálint could hardly believe he had succeeded—he had saved his wife.Hu: Bálint alázatosan köszönte meg István segítségét.En: Bálint humbly thanked István for his help.Hu: Megtanulta, hogy a legnagyobb kihívásokkal szemben néha nem elég az egyéni tudás és akaraterő; néha szükség van mások bölcsességére is.En: He learned that when facing the greatest challenges, sometimes personal knowledge and willpower are not enough; sometimes, the wisdom of others is needed too.Hu: Bálint tapasztalata megújította nemcsak Zsófia életét, hanem saját szemléletét is.En: Bálint's experience not only renewed Zsófia's life but also changed his own perspective.Hu: Most már tudta, hogy a legnagyobb tanulás az, amit másokkal együtt élhetünk meg.En: He now knew that the greatest learning is that which we can experience together with others. Vocabulary Words:ancient: ősisunlight: napfénypainted: festetteclay: agyagbricks: téglákswirl: forgatagmarketplace: piactérburden: teherbedridden: ágyba kényszerítettemysterious: titokzatoslibrary: könyvtárweighed down: roskadoztaktablets: agyagtáblákcure: gyógymóddeteriorating: romlotthesitated: habozottfailure: kudarcherbs: gyógynövényattentively: végighallgattascroll: tekercsdeciphering: megfejtettingredients: összetevőkmiracle: csodaeffortless: könnyedéretreated: visszavonulót fújthumbly: alázatosanchallenges: kihívásokwillpower: akaraterőwisdom: bölcsességperspective: szemlélet

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Spice, Sacrifice, and Saturnalia: Vincenzo's Roman Quest Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-10-27-22-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: Il sole d'autunno splendeva su Roma antica, illuminando il mercato affollato dove Vincenzo si muoveva con passo deciso.En: The autumn sun shone on ancient Roma, illuminating the crowded market where Vincenzo moved with a determined stride.It: Le bancarelle erano piene di frutta autunnale, spezie profumate e tessuti colorati.En: The stalls were filled with autumnal fruits, fragrant spices, and colorful fabrics.It: La festa di Saturnalia era alle porte e ogni angolo del mercato era un'occasione d'acquisto perfetta per quella celebrazione speciale.En: The Saturnalia festival was just around the corner, and every corner of the market was a perfect shopping opportunity for that special celebration.It: Vincenzo, giovane e ambizioso, aveva un obiettivo chiaro: impressionare Lorenzo, il suo mentore astuto e saggio.En: Vincenzo, young and ambitious, had a clear goal: to impress Lorenzo, his shrewd and wise mentor.It: Lorenzo gli aveva dato un elenco preciso di ingredienti da trovare per il grande banchetto.En: Lorenzo had given him a precise list of ingredients to find for the grand banquet.It: Ma Vincenzo aveva anche una missione segreta: trovare una spezia rara, la cassia, per conquistare la stima di Lorenzo ed entrare nel suo commercio.En: But Vincenzo also had a secret mission: to find a rare spice, cassia, to earn Lorenzo's esteem and join his trade.It: Accanto a lui, Alessia, la sorella curiosa, correva avanti e indietro, affascinata da ogni bancarella.En: Beside him, Alessia, his curious sister, ran back and forth, fascinated by every stall.It: "Guarda, Vincenzo!"En: "Look, Vincenzo!"It: gridava, indicando stoffe e gioielli.En: she shouted, pointing out fabrics and jewels.It: Ma Vincenzo aveva poco tempo e molta pressione.En: But Vincenzo had little time and a lot of pressure.It: "Alessia, resta vicina," disse Vincenzo mentre controllava l'elenco di Lorenzo.En: "Alessia, stay close," said Vincenzo as he checked Lorenzo's list.It: Doveva concentrarsi.En: He needed to concentrate.It: Mancavano ancora il miele e il formaggio fresco.En: He still needed to get the honey and fresh cheese.It: E poi, sopratutto, la cassia.En: And most importantly, the cassia.It: Il tempo passava veloce e Vincenzo si affrettava tra la folla.En: Time flew by as Vincenzo hurried through the crowd.It: Alla fine trovò un mercante che vendeva la cassia.En: Eventually, he found a merchant selling the cassia.It: Ma altri acquirenti si erano già radunati, e iniziò una gara di offerte.En: But other buyers had already gathered, and a bidding war began.It: Vincenzo sentiva il peso della responsabilità sulle spalle: la spezia poteva fare colpo su Lorenzo, ma il suo costo era alto.En: Vincenzo felt the weight of responsibility on his shoulders: the spice could make an impression on Lorenzo, but its cost was high.It: In quel momento, il cuore di Vincenzo sussultò.En: At that moment, Vincenzo's heart skipped a beat.It: Alessia era sparita.En: Alessia was missing.It: Si girò freneticamente nella folla, il mercato improvvisamente sembrava un labirinto insormontabile.En: He turned frantically in the crowd; the market suddenly seemed like an insurmountable maze.It: "Alessia!"En: "Alessia!"It: chiamava, preoccupato.En: he called out, worried.It: La spezia era importante, ma non poteva trascurare la famiglia.En: The spice was important, but he couldn't neglect family.It: Prese la decisione: lasciò l'asta e si mise alla ricerca della sorella.En: He made the decision: he left the auction and began searching for his sister.It: Dopo momenti di tensione, trovò Alessia vicino a una fontana, incantata da uno spettacolo di marionette.En: After moments of tension, he found Alessia near a fountain, enchanted by a puppet show.It: "Vincenzo!"En: "Vincenzo!"It: esclamò lei, vedendolo arrivare.En: she exclaimed, seeing him approach.It: Gli occhi di Vincenzo si illuminarono di sollievo.En: Vincenzo's eyes lit up with relief.It: Al tramonto, Vincenzo tornò da Lorenzo senza la cassia, ma con Alessia al sicuro al suo fianco.En: At sunset, Vincenzo returned to Lorenzo without the cassia, but with Alessia safe by his side.It: Lorenzo lo attendeva, uno sguardo interrogativo sul volto.En: Lorenzo was waiting for him, a questioning look on his face.It: Vincenzo spiegò la sua scelta, aspettandosi delusione.En: Vincenzo explained his choice, expecting disappointment.It: Ma Lorenzo sorrise.En: But Lorenzo smiled.It: "Hai dimostrato responsabilità e cuore, Vincenzo.En: "You have shown responsibility and heart, Vincenzo.It: Questo vale più di qualsiasi spezia," disse con saggezza.En: This is worth more than any spice," he said wisely.It: "Sarai un grande mercante."En: "You will be a great merchant."It: Vincenzo imparò una lezione fondamentale quel giorno: l'equilibrio tra ambizione e famiglia è la chiave del vero successo.En: Vincenzo learned a fundamental lesson that day: the balance between ambition and family is the key to true success.It: Con rinnovata fiducia, accettò l'offerta di Lorenzo di continuare l'apprendistato, pronto ad affrontare le nuove sfide del futuro.En: With renewed confidence, he accepted Lorenzo's offer to continue his apprenticeship, ready to face the new challenges of the future. Vocabulary Words:the autumn: l'autunnothe sun: il solethe market: il mercatothe stalls: le bancarellethe spices: le speziethe fabrics: i tessutithe festival: la festathe goal: l'obiettivothe mentor: il mentorethe list: l'elencothe banquet: il banchettothe spice: la speziathe esteem: la stimathe trade: il commerciothe sister: la sorellathe pressure: la pressionethe honey: il mielethe cheese: il formaggiothe crowd: la follathe merchant: il mercantethe buyers: gli acquirentithe bidding: la gara di offertethe responsibility: la responsabilitàthe heart: il cuorethe maze: il labirintothe fountain: la fontanathe puppet show: lo spettacolo di marionettethe sunset: il tramontothe apprentice: l'apprendistathe challenges: le sfide

Fluent Fiction - Spanish: Unveiling Ancestral Secrets: A Journey to Family and Identity Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/es/episode/2025-10-27-22-34-02-es Story Transcript:Es: La suave brisa de la primavera acariciaba las mejillas de Mateo mientras contemplaba las imponentes ruinas de Machu Picchu.En: The gentle spring breeze caressed Mateo's cheeks as he gazed at the imposing ruins of Machu Picchu.Es: A su lado, su hermana Isabel estaba maravillada con el paisaje.En: Beside him, his sister Isabel was marveled by the landscape.Es: Las terrazas verdes y las piedras antiguas contaban historias de un pasado distante.En: The green terraces and ancient stones told stories of a distant past.Es: En ese lugar místico, oculto entre nubes y montañas, Mateo sentía la presencia de sus ancestros.En: In that mystical place, hidden among clouds and mountains, Mateo felt the presence of his ancestors.Es: Desde niño, Mateo había estado fascinado por las historias familiares.En: Since childhood, Mateo had been fascinated by family stories.Es: Sin embargo, siempre hubo piezas del rompecabezas que faltaban.En: However, there had always been missing pieces of the puzzle.Es: Su madre mencionaba a veces a un hermano perdido, un tío llamado Javier.En: His mother sometimes mentioned a lost brother, an uncle named Javier.Es: Los rumores decían que él conocía secretos cruciales sobre sus antepasados.En: Rumors said that he knew crucial secrets about their ancestors.Es: Ahora, en este viaje a Machu Picchu durante el Día de los Muertos, Mateo e Isabel esperaban encontrar a Javier.En: Now, on this trip to Machu Picchu during the Day of the Dead, Mateo and Isabel hoped to find Javier.Es: El camino hasta aquí no había sido fácil.En: The journey here had not been easy.Es: Los senderos empinados y la niebla constante hacían el recorrido desafiante.En: The steep paths and constant fog made the trek challenging.Es: Pero no fue solo el terreno lo que probó la determinación de Mateo.En: But it was not only the terrain that tested Mateo's determination.Es: La duda seguía provocando un nudo en su estómago.En: Doubt continued to cause a knot in his stomach.Es: ¿Podría confiar en Javier?En: Could he trust Javier?Es: ¿Sería capaz de enfrentar la verdad, cualquiera que fuera?En: Would he be able to face the truth, whatever it might be?Es: A medida que el sol comenzaba su ascenso, iluminando las estructuras de piedra con un dorado cálido, Mateo e Isabel llegaron a un área conocida como el Templo del Sol.En: As the sun began its ascent, illuminating the stone structures with a warm golden light, Mateo and Isabel arrived at an area known as the Temple of the Sun.Es: Era un lugar sagrado, y allí estaba Javier, tal como lo habían imaginado, delgado y con una mirada que reflejaba años de soledad.En: It was a sacred place, and there was Javier, just as they had imagined him, thin and with a gaze that reflected years of solitude.Es: — Mateo, Isabel — saludó Javier con una voz ronca pero amable.En: "Mateo, Isabel," greeted Javier with a hoarse but kind voice.Es: Mateo sintió una mezcla de emociones al ver al hombre que había sido casi un mito en su mente durante tanto tiempo.En: Mateo felt a mix of emotions upon seeing the man who had been almost a myth in his mind for so long.Es: Javier comenzó a contarles historias de su juventud, de secretos guardados por generaciones.En: Javier began to tell them stories of his youth, of secrets kept for generations.Es: Habló de tradiciones olvidadas y sacrificios hechos por sus antepasados.En: He spoke of forgotten traditions and sacrifices made by their ancestors.Es: Con cada palabra, el muro de desconfianza en Mateo se fue desmoronando.En: With every word, the wall of distrust in Mateo began to crumble.Es: Frente a ese paisaje sagrado, la verdad sobre su linaje resonó con claridad.En: In front of that sacred landscape, the truth about his lineage resonated with clarity.Es: El momento culminante llegó cuando Javier reveló una conexión especial que unía su familia con los antiguos habitantes de la región.En: The culminating moment came when Javier revealed a special connection that linked their family with the ancient inhabitants of the region.Es: Esto no solo les dio un nuevo sentido de pertenencia, sino también un orgullo compartido.En: This not only gave them a new sense of belonging but also a shared pride.Es: Mateo, con los ojos llenos de lágrimas, abrazó a su tío.En: Mateo, with eyes full of tears, embraced his uncle.Es: Isabel, conmovida, se unió al abrazo.En: Isabel, moved, joined the embrace.Es: La reconciliación era sanadora.En: The reconciliation was healing.Es: En ese instante, comprendieron que el viaje no solo era acerca de descubrir el pasado, sino también de construir un futuro juntos.En: In that instant, they understood that the journey was not only about discovering the past but also about building a future together.Es: Cuando finalmente dejaron Machu Picchu, el cielo se abrió, despejándose de niebla y sombras.En: When they finally left Machu Picchu, the sky cleared, free from fog and shadows.Es: Mateo e Isabel habían ganado más que una historia; tenían un vínculo renovado y una identidad fortalecida.En: Mateo and Isabel had gained more than a story; they had a renewed bond and a strengthened identity.Es: Con Javier a su lado, se prometieron nunca más perderse en el silencio y el olvido.En: With Javier by their side, they promised never again to be lost in silence and oblivion.Es: La familia había encontrado su camino, y en el amanecer de un nuevo día, caminaban juntos hacia el horizonte, sonriendo ante la promesa de lo que estaba por venir.En: The family had found their way, and at the dawn of a new day, they walked together towards the horizon, smiling at the promise of what was to come.Es: Así, la antigua ciudad de Machu Picchu guardó otro secreto, pero reveló un tesoro aún más precioso: la fuerza de los lazos familiares.En: Thus, the ancient city of Machu Picchu kept another secret, but revealed an even more precious treasure: the strength of family ties. Vocabulary Words:the breeze: la brisato caress: acariciarto gaze: contemplarthe ruins: las ruinasimposing: imponenteto marvel: maravillarsethe landscape: el paisajethe terrace: la terrazathe ancestor: el ancestrothe childhood: la niñezthe rumor: el rumorthe doubt: la dudathe knot: el nudothe truth: la verdadto illuminate: iluminarsacred: sagrado/sagradathin: delgado/delgadahoarse: ronco/roncathe myth: el mitoto crumble: desmoronarsethe lineage: el linajeto resonate: resonarthe connection: la conexiónthe descendant: el descendientethe gaze: la miradato embrace: abrazarthe reconciliation: la reconciliaciónhealing: sanador/sanadorathe silence: el silenciothe oblivion: el olvido

Fluent Fiction - Serbian: Market Rivals Join Forces: A Tale of Trade and Triumph Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sr/episode/2025-10-27-22-34-02-sr Story Transcript:Sr: Јесење сунце бацало је златаст сјај на град Виминацијум.En: The autumn sun cast a golden glow over the city of Viminacijum.Sr: Улице су биле крцате људима.En: The streets were crowded with people.Sr: Мирис егзотичних зачина ширио се ваздухом, мешајући се са шареним тканинама на пијаци.En: The scent of exotic spices filled the air, mingling with the colorful fabrics at the market.Sr: Гужва је била велика, а у центру свега био је млади трговац, Владимир.En: The hustle and bustle were paramount, and at the center of it all was a young merchant, Vladimir.Sr: Владимир је био пун амбиција.En: Vladimir was full of ambition.Sr: Хтео је да импресионира богатог покровитеља како би осигурао велики уговор.En: He wanted to impress a wealthy patron to secure a big contract.Sr: Док је обилазио тезге, сусрео је Милену.En: As he walked through the stalls, he encountered Milena.Sr: Она је имала оштро око за квалитет и волела је погађање више од свега.En: She had a keen eye for quality and loved bargaining more than anything.Sr: "Здраво, Милена.En: "Hello, Milena.Sr: Шта кажеш на ове зачине?En: What do you think of these spices?"Sr: " упита Владимир, показујући ка врећама пуним ријетких зачина.En: asked Vladimir, pointing to bags full of rare spices.Sr: Милена се осмјехнула.En: Milena smiled.Sr: "Владимире, ови су добри, али тамо преко пута су бољи.En: "Vladimire, these are good, but over there across the street, there are better ones."Sr: "Док су настављали кроз пијацу, приметили су да је снабдевање ограничено.En: As they continued through the market, they noticed that supplies were limited.Sr: Милена се такмичила са Владимиром да набави исте зачине и тканине.En: Milena competed with Vladimir to acquire the same spices and fabrics.Sr: Обоје су знали да морају бити брзи и мудри.En: Both knew they had to be quick and wise.Sr: Али онда, донели су неочекивану одлуку.En: But then, they made an unexpected decision.Sr: “Шта мислиш да се удружимо?En: "What do you think about teaming up?"Sr: ” предложи Владимир.En: Vladimir proposed.Sr: “Јачи смо заједно.En: "We're stronger together."Sr: ”Милена је секунду размислила, а затим одлучно рекла: “Паметна идеја.En: Milena thought for a second, then decidedly said, "Smart idea.Sr: Хајде да покушамо.En: Let's try it."Sr: ”Удружени, супротставили су се мистериозном купцу који је такође желео исту робу.En: Teamed up, they faced a mysterious buyer who also wanted the same goods.Sr: Надметање је било напето и драматично.En: The competition was intense and dramatic.Sr: Уз мало среће и пуно труда, успели су да надмаче супарника и добију најбоље зачине и тканине.En: With a bit of luck and a lot of effort, they managed to outdo their rival and secured the best spices and fabrics.Sr: Док су одлазили са пијаце, задовољни својим успесима, Владимир се окрену ка Милени: "Можда би требало да наставимо овако?En: As they left the market, pleased with their success, Vladimir turned to Milena: "Maybe we should continue like this?Sr: Тим смо одличан.En: We make a great team.Sr: Шта мислиш о партнерству?En: What do you think about a partnership?"Sr: "Милена се насмешила, знајући да су заједно јачи.En: Milena smiled, knowing they were stronger together.Sr: "Слажем се.En: "I agree.Sr: Ово је тек почетак.En: This is just the beginning."Sr: "Владимир је тог дана научио да вредност сарадње надмашује конкуренцију.En: That day, Vladimir learned that the value of collaboration surpasses competition.Sr: Пронашао је новог савезника у Милени и отворио нове могућности за своју трговину.En: He found a new ally in Milena and opened new opportunities for his trade.Sr: Пијаца је наставила да живи својим ужурбаним ритмом, али сада су Владимиран и Милена били тим, спремни за нове изазове.En: The market continued to buzz with its hectic rhythm, but now Vladimir and Milena were a team, ready for new challenges. Vocabulary Words:autumn: јесењеcast: бацалоgolden: златастglow: сјајcrowded: крцатеscent: мирисexotic: егзотичнихspices: зачинаmingling: мешајући сеfabrics: тканинамаhustle: гужваbustle: великaparamount: центруambition: амбицијаimpress: импресионираsecure: осигураcontract: уговорstalls: тезгеencountered: сусреоkeen: оштроbargaining: погађањеsupplies: снабдевањеlimited: ограниченоcompeted: такмичилаacquire: набавиdecision: одлукуteaming up: удружимоmysterious: мистериозномbuyer: купцуintense: напето

Fluent Fiction - Hindi: Unveiling the Secret of Qutub Minar: A Diwali Mystery Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hi/episode/2025-10-24-07-38-20-hi Story Transcript:Hi: गुनगुनी धूप में कुतुब मीनार की प्राचीन पत्थरों की चुप्पी आज कुछ कहने को आतुर थी।En: In the gentle warmth of the sun, the ancient stones of the Qutub Minar were eager to express something today.Hi: दीवाली की रोशनी से सजा, वह भव्य मीनार एक रहस्य छुपाए हुए था।En: Adorned with the lights of Diwali, the magnificent tower concealed a mystery.Hi: राजीव, प्रिय कहानीकार और इतिहास प्रेमी, अपने दोस्त प्रिय और गाइड अनिका के साथ वहां पहुंचे।En: Rajiv, a beloved storyteller and history enthusiast, arrived there with his friend Priya and guide Anika.Hi: तीनों के दिलों में भांति-भांति की भावनाएँ हिलोरे ले रही थीं।En: Their hearts were swaying with a variety of emotions.Hi: "इस पत्थर पर कुछ लिखा है," राजीव ने कहा। उसकी आँखें चमक उठीं जैसी कोई खजाना सामने आ गया हो।En: "There's something written on this stone," Rajiv said, his eyes lit up as if a treasure lay before them.Hi: अनिका थोड़ा सतर्क होकर बोली, "इतने सालों में यहां ऐसी कोई चीज नहीं दिखी।"En: Anika, cautious, replied, "In all these years, nothing like this has been seen here."Hi: उसकी आवाज में हल्की राहत और निराशा थी।En: Her voice carried a hint of relief and disappointment.Hi: राजीव ने अपनी जिज्ञासा के साथ पत्थर के समीप जाकर देखा। "यह तो कोई गूढ़ संदेश लग रहा है," उसने धीमे स्वर में कहा।En: Intrigued, Rajiv moved closer to the stone. "It seems to be some kind of cryptic message," he murmured.Hi: प्रिय, जो हमेशा राजीव की उत्सुकता को संजीदगी से देखता था, बोला, "हम इसे कैसे पढ़ेंगे, जब यह अधूरा है?"En: Priya, who always observed Rajiv's curiosity seriously, said, "How can we read it when it's incomplete?"Hi: राजीव की आंखों में उत्साह था।En: Rajiv's eyes gleamed with excitement.Hi: उसने निर्णय लिया कि सारी बाधाओं को पार कर, इसे समझना ही होगा।En: He resolved to overcome all obstacles and decipher it.Hi: उसके मन में विश्वास था, हो सकता है यह इतिहास की कोई बड़ी खोज हो।En: He believed it might be a significant historical discovery.Hi: "अनिका, क्या तुम हमें प्रतिबंधित क्षेत्र में जाने में मदद कर सकती हो?" राजीव ने आग्रह किया।En: "Anika, can you help us gain access to the restricted area?" Rajiv requested.Hi: अनिका पहले कुछ संकोच में थी, परंतु राजीव के शब्दों में सम्मान और इतिहास के प्रति प्रेम को उसने महसूस किया।En: Anika was initially hesitant, but she sensed Rajiv's respect and love for history in his words.Hi: "मैं कोशिश करूंगी," उसने मुस्कुरा कर कहा।En: "I'll try," she smiled.Hi: तीनों में एक नई ऊर्जा था।En: A new energy surged through the three of them.Hi: वे अनुभाग क्षेत्रों में पहुँचे, जहाँ और भी जटिल कारीगरी छिपी थी।En: They reached sections where even more intricate craftsmanship was hidden.Hi: कुछ समय बाद, उन्होंने दूसरी आधी लिखाई खोज निकाली।En: After some time, they discovered the other half of the inscription.Hi: फिर अचानक, वहां सुरक्षा अधिकारी आ गए।En: Suddenly, security officers appeared and questioned their intentions.Hi: वे तीनों से उनके इरादों के बारे में सवाल पूछने लगे। लेकिन राजीव ने उन्हें समझाया कि उनका उद्देश्य केवल इतिहास के इस छोटे से पहलू को उजागर करना है।En: But Rajiv explained that their goal was simply to uncover this little aspect of history.Hi: उसकी ईमानदारी से प्रभावित होकर अधिकारी ने कुछ वक्त के लिए उन्हें अकेला छोड़ दिया।En: Impressed by his honesty, the officer left them alone for a while.Hi: अंततः, वे संदेश को पढ़ने में कामयाब हुए।En: Ultimately, they succeeded in reading the message.Hi: यह प्राचीन कवि द्वारा रचित एक भुला दी गई कविता थी, जो दीवाली के प्रकाश और एकता की महिमा का वर्णन करती थी।En: It was a forgotten poem composed by an ancient poet, describing the glory of Diwali's light and unity.Hi: उन तीनों ने एक गहरे गर्व और प्रसन्नता का अनुभव किया।En: The three of them felt a deep sense of pride and happiness.Hi: इस अनूठी खोज के माध्यम से, राजीव समझ गया कि मिलकर काम करने का कोई विकल्प नहीं है।En: Through this unique discovery, Rajiv realized that there is no substitute for working together.Hi: अनिका को भी अपने अतीत और जड़ों की ओर लौटने की प्रेरणा मिली।En: Anika found the inspiration to return to her past and roots.Hi: दीवाली की इस विशेष रात ने उन्हें सांस्कृतिक एकता के ताने-बाने से जोड़ दिया।En: This special night of Diwali connected them with the fabric of cultural unity.Hi: कुतुब मीनार अब केवल पत्थरों का ढांचा नहीं था, वह अतीत की कहानियों का सजीव काव्य बन चुका था।En: The Qutub Minar was no longer just a structure of stones; it had become a living poem of past stories. Vocabulary Words:gentle: गुनगुनीancient: प्राचीनadorned: सजाmagnificent: भव्यconcealed: छुपाएenthusiast: प्रेमीvariety: भांति-भांतिemotions: भावनाएँtreasure: खजानाcautious: सतर्कrelief: राहतdisappointment: निराशाintrigued: जिज्ञासाcryptic: गूढ़resolve: निर्णयobstacles: बाधाओंhesitant: संकोचgleamed: चमकinscription: लिखाईintention: इरादोंuncover: उजागरhonesty: ईमानदारीpoem: कविताglory: महिमाsurge: ऊर्जाrestricted: प्रतिबंधितcraftsmanship: कारीगरीinspiration: प्रेरणाfabric: ताने-बानेunity: एकता

Meryl chats with Sharon Gloger Friedman about historical fiction, and her recently released novel, The Other Emma. Set in the Gilded Age, a young girl assumes the identity of her wealthy adopted sister when she perishes in the Blizzard of 1888. The novel chronicles Rose's journey from the despair of the tenements to the mansions of Fifth Avenue complicated by the weight of deception. Sharon was born and raised in South Florida and now lives in Georgia with her husband. A former English teacher who left the classroom to raise her daughter and son, she found a new career as a freelance writer and copy editor. This is Sharon's third novel. Her first novel, Ashes, is the 2019 winner of the Next Generation Indie Book Award for Historical Fiction. Her second novel, In Freedom's Light, takes place in eighteenth and nineteenth century Charleston and Philadelphia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sharonglogerfriedmanauthor Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/friedman_sharon LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-gloger-friedman-a1046714/ Website: https://www.sharonglogerfriedman.com People of the Book is a copyrighted work of Meryl Ain and Authors on The Air Global Radio Network. Website: merylain.com/ Jews Love To Read! https://www.facebook.com/groups/455865462463744 #AuthorsOnTheAir #AuthorsOnTheAirGlobalRadioNetwork #AOTA #SharonGlogerFriedman #HistoricalFiction #WritingProcess #TheOtherEmma #Rose #TheGildedAge #TheBlizzardOf1888 #FifthAvenue #Prostitution #Ashes #InFreedom'sLight #PeopleoftheBook #MerylAin #TheTakeawayMen #ShadowsWeCarry #RememberToEat #LetsTalkJewishBooks #JewsLoveToRead

Meryl chats with Sharon Gloger Friedman about historical fiction, and her recently released novel, The Other Emma. Set in the Gilded Age, a young girl assumes the identity of her wealthy adopted sister when she perishes in the Blizzard of 1888. The novel chronicles Rose's journey from the despair of the tenements to the mansions of Fifth Avenue complicated by the weight of deception.Sharon was born and raised in South Florida and now lives in Georgia with her husband. A former English teacher who left the classroom to raise her daughter and son, she found a new career as a freelance writer and copy editor. This is Sharon's third novel. Her first novel, Ashes, is the 2019 winner of the Next Generation Indie Book Award for Historical Fiction. Her second novel, In Freedom's Light, takes place in eighteenth and nineteenth century Charleston and PhiladelphiaFacebook: www.facebook.com/SharonglogerfriedmanauthorTwitter: mobile.twitter.com/friedman_sharonLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-gloger…iedman-a1046714/Website: www.sharonglogerfriedman.comPeople of the Book is a copyrighted work of Meryl Ain and Authors on The Air Global Radio Network.Website: merylain.com/Jews Love To Read! www.facebook.com/groups/455865462463744#AuthorsOnTheAir #AuthorsOnTheAirGlobalRadioNetwork #AOTA #SharonGlogerFriedman #HistoricalFiction #WritingProcess #TheOtherEmma #Rose #TheGildedAge #TheBlizzardOf1888 #FifthAvenue #Prostitution #Ashes #InFreedomsLight #PeopleoftheBook #MerylAin #TheTakeawayMen #ShadowsWeCarry #RememberToEat #LetsTalkJewishBooks #JewsLoveToRead

Meryl chats with Sharon Gloger Friedman about historical fiction, and her recently released novel, The Other Emma. Set in the Gilded Age, a young girl assumes the identity of her wealthy adopted sister when she perishes in the Blizzard of 1888. The novel chronicles Rose's journey from the despair of the tenements to the mansions of Fifth Avenue complicated by the weight of deception. Sharon was born and raised in South Florida and now lives in Georgia with her husband. A former English teacher who left the classroom to raise her daughter and son, she found a new career as a freelance writer and copy editor. This is Sharon's third novel. Her first novel, Ashes, is the 2019 winner of the Next Generation Indie Book Award for Historical Fiction. Her second novel, In Freedom's Light, takes place in eighteenth and nineteenth century Charleston and Philadelphia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sharonglogerfriedmanauthor Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/friedman_sharon LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-gloger-friedman-a1046714/ Website: https://www.sharonglogerfriedman.com People of the Book is a copyrighted work of Meryl Ain and Authors on The Air Global Radio Network. Website: merylain.com/ Jews Love To Read! https://www.facebook.com/groups/455865462463744 #AuthorsOnTheAir #AuthorsOnTheAirGlobalRadioNetwork #AOTA #SharonGlogerFriedman #HistoricalFiction #WritingProcess #TheOtherEmma #Rose #TheGildedAge #TheBlizzardOf1888 #FifthAvenue #Prostitution #Ashes #InFreedom'sLight #PeopleoftheBook #MerylAin #TheTakeawayMen #ShadowsWeCarry #RememberToEat #LetsTalkJewishBooks #JewsLoveToRead

Good historical fiction makes the past feel as alive as the present. In this episode, we explore how to write immersive, character-driven stories that honor history without feeling like a textbook.First, we talk about the importance of writing contests.

Fluent Fiction - Serbian: Unveiling Secrets: Mystery and Adventure at Petrovaradin Fortress Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sr/episode/2025-10-15-22-34-02-sr Story Transcript:Sr: Светла и сјајне боје јесени освојиле су Петроварадинску тврђаву.En: The bright and shining colors of autumn had captured the Petrovaradin Fortress.Sr: Прелеци су држали штандове, мамећи посетиоце мирисима српских делиција.En: Vendors held stalls, enticing visitors with the aromas of Serbian delicacies.Sr: Сваке године, овај фестивал доносио је радост, док је данас још донела и мистерију.En: Every year, this festival brought joy, but today it also brought mystery.Sr: Милош, млади новинар, обилазио је штандове тражећи причу која би му донела велико признање.En: Miloš, a young journalist, was touring the stalls in search of a story that would earn him great recognition.Sr: Његове очи спазиле су Јелену, нервозну организаторку која је пажљиво осматрала сваки кутак са страхом од могућег проблема.En: His eyes spotted Jelena, the nervous organizer who carefully observed every corner with the fear of a possible issue.Sr: Његова знатижеља га је водила ка њој.En: His curiosity led him to her.Sr: "Јелена," почео је Милош, "чуо сам наговештаје о нестајању.En: "Jelena," Miloš began, "I've heard hints about a disappearance.Sr: Можда могу помоћи?En: Maybe I can help?"Sr: "Јелена га је погледала, прекрстивши руке.En: Jelena looked at him, crossing her arms.Sr: "Фестивал треба да прође без проблема.En: "The festival needs to go smoothly.Sr: Не треба нам скандал," одговорила је одлучно.En: We don't need a scandal," she replied decisively.Sr: Док је разговор трајао, Ђорђе, локални историчар, проматрао их је издалека.En: While the conversation went on, Đorđe, a local historian, observed them from afar.Sr: Легенда о благу давно га је опсела.En: A legend about a treasure had long obsessed him.Sr: Чуо је да је Милош заинтересован за мистерију и то га је вукло ка њему.En: He had heard that Miloš was interested in the mystery, which drew him toward him.Sr: "Милоше," каза Ђорђе, "могу ти показати путању до нечега важног.En: "Miloše," said Đorđe, "I can show you the path to something important.Sr: Али, морам да знам да ми верујеш.En: But, I need to know that you trust me."Sr: "Њих троје нашли су се у старој кули тврђаве.En: The three of them met in the old tower of the fortress.Sr: Ђорђе је причао о свом деди који је био чувар тајне, о благу које лежи негде испод камених зидова.En: Đorđe talked about his grandfather who was the keeper of the secret, about the treasure that lay somewhere beneath the stone walls.Sr: Док су разгледали старе карте, Милош пронађе ситни знак на поду.En: While examining old maps, Miloš found a tiny mark on the floor.Sr: Скривени пролаз водио је испод тврђаве.En: A hidden passage led beneath the fortress.Sr: Пратили су пут, осећајући да су близу нечему великом.En: They followed the path, feeling they were close to something significant.Sr: У тренутку, када су пронашли древни запис угравиран у стени, Милош је знао да има причу која ће променити његову каријеру.En: In an instant, when they found an ancient inscription engraved in the rock, Miloš knew he had a story that would change his career.Sr: Али постојао је још велики мистерија: где је благо?En: But there remained a great mystery: where was the treasure?Sr: Фестивал се приводио крају, а тајна благости остала непотпуна, али прича коју је Милош написао предствљала је зачетак новог авантуристичког поглавља.En: The festival was coming to an end, and the secret of the treasure remained incomplete, but the story that Miloš wrote marked the beginning of a new adventurous chapter.Sr: Јелена је научила да верује другима, а Ђорђе се осетио ближе открићу легенде.En: Jelena learned to trust others, and Đorđe felt closer to uncovering the legend.Sr: Тврђава је оживела у духу јесени, а тројац се вратио међу људе, са надом и узбуђењем за будуће.En: The fortress came alive in the spirit of autumn, and the trio returned among the people, with hope and excitement for the future.Sr: Тајна се наставља, али њихова веза и нада сада је јача него икад.En: The mystery continues, but their bond and hope are now stronger than ever. Vocabulary Words:enticing: мамећиdelicacies: делицијаdisappearance: нестајањеobsessed: опсесалаinscription: записengraved: угравиранscandal: скандалorganizer: организаторкаrecognition: признањеsignificant: значајноcuriosity: знатижељаdecisively: одлучноtrust: вераlegend: легендаpassage: пролазtreasure: благоbeneath: исподtower: кулаsecret: тајнаchapter: поглављеadventurous: авантуристичкиbond: везаfortress: тврђаваmystery: мистеријаhistorian: историчарexamining: разгледајућиsign: знакhope: надаtouring: обилазећиrecognition: признање

Fluent Fiction - Serbian: Unveiling Kalemegdan's Mystery: The Victor's Disappearance Solved Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sr/episode/2025-10-14-07-38-20-sr Story Transcript:Sr: Калемегдански парк је био тих и величанствен, златни листови су шуштали на јесењем ветру.En: Kalemegdan Park was quiet and magnificent, the golden leaves rustling in the autumn wind.Sr: Милоš, новинар са духовитим осмехом и трачком скепсе у очима, шетао је стазама које су се пружале ка далекој прошлости.En: Miloš, a journalist with a witty smile and a hint of skepticism in his eyes, walked the paths that stretched into the distant past.Sr: Његов задатак био је јасан – открити куда је нестала чувена статуа Победника.En: His task was clear – to discover where the famous statue of the Victor had disappeared.Sr: Јелена, страствени историчар, није могла да верује у вести које су се шапатом шириле градом.En: Jelena, a passionate historian, could not believe the news that was spreading through the city in whispers.Sr: Њена љубав према Калемегдану била је дубока и лична.En: Her love for Kalemegdan was deep and personal.Sr: Са Милоšem, кога је првобитно сматрала можда помало циничним, одлучила је да удружи снаге.En: With Miloš, whom she initially considered maybe a bit cynical, she decided to join forces.Sr: Јелена је знала како да пронађе информације кроз своју мрежу историчара и ентузијаста.En: Jelena knew how to find information through her network of historians and enthusiasts.Sr: Милоš и Јелена срели су се недалеко од места где је некада стајао Победник.En: Miloš and Jelena met not far from the place where the Victor once stood.Sr: Гледала је кроз наочари, а његове очи су сјајиле непоколебљивим захтевом за истином.En: She looked through her glasses, and his eyes shone with an unwavering demand for the truth.Sr: Локалне власти су одбијале да признају да статуе нема, али Милоš и Јелена нису одустајали.En: The local authorities refused to admit that the statue was missing, but Miloš and Jelena did not give up.Sr: Одлучили су да истраже сами.En: They decided to investigate on their own.Sr: Док су се пробијали кроз разнолику вегетацију парка, Јелена је поделила неочекивану информацију – мистериозни пролаз испод парка, за који је чула од старог колеге историчара.En: As they pushed through the diverse vegetation of the park, Jelena shared an unexpected piece of information – a mysterious passage beneath the park, which she had heard about from an old historian colleague.Sr: Убрзо су га и нашли.En: They soon found it.Sr: Влажни и нескривени степеници водили су у мрак.En: The damp and unhidden steps led into the darkness.Sr: Корачајући с опрезом, осетили су ехо прошлости и, изненада, наишли су на тајну просторију.En: Walking cautiously, they felt the echo of the past, and suddenly, they stumbled upon a secret room.Sr: Статуа Победника лежала је ту, померена од стране групе која је планирала незакониту "реконструкцију".En: The statue of the Victor lay there, moved by a group planning an illegal "reconstruction."Sr: Веровали су да ће то донети и публицитет парку.En: They believed it would bring publicity to the park.Sr: Милош је одмах послао извештај, а Јелена је користила свој утицај да алармира јавност.En: Miloš immediately sent a report, and Jelena used her influence to alert the public.Sr: Акција је успела – на време су зауставили сваки покушај промене статуе.En: The action succeeded – they stopped any attempt to alter the statue in time.Sr: Док су сутрадан враћали Победника на његово место, Милош је постао отворенији према нетрадиционалним методама, а Јелена је осетила сигурност да делује изван академских кругова.En: As they returned the Victor to its place the next day, Miloš became more open to non-traditional methods, and Jelena felt confident acting outside academic circles.Sr: Парк је наставио да блиста у јесењем сјају, а његова прича рађала се са сваким кораком посетилаца који су долазили да виде Победника, овог пута сигурно смештеног на месту где припада.En: The park continued to shine in autumn splendor, and its story came alive with every step visitors took to see the Victor, this time securely placed where it belongs.Sr: Није било значајног празника, али у срцима Милоша и Јелене, који су сада били пријатељи, било је места за лични тријумф и мир.En: There was no major festival, but in the hearts of Miloš and Jelena, who were now friends, there was room for personal triumph and peace. Vocabulary Words:magnificent: величанственrustling: шушталиsophisticated: духовитskepticism: скепсаpaths: стазеdiscovered: открилиpassionate: страствениenthusiasts: ентузијастаdemand: захтевauthorities: властиrefused: одбијалеinvestigate: истражитиvegetation: вегетацијуunexpected: неочекивануpassage: пролазhistorian: историчараdamp: влажниecho: эхоsecret: тајнуattempt: покушајreconstruction: реконструкцијуpublicity: публицитетinfluence: утицајalert: алармираunveiling: откривањеtriumph: тријумфunwavering: непоколебљивимalter: променеsecurely: сигурноacademic: академских

Fluent Fiction - Spanish: Mysteries & Connections: Secrets in Madrid's Heart Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/es/episode/2025-10-12-07-38-20-es Story Transcript:Es: La Plaza Mayor en Madrid estaba llena de color en ese día otoñal.En: La Plaza Mayor in Madrid was full of color on that autumn day.Es: Las hojas volaban al ritmo del viento fresco, como queriendo ser parte de la celebración del Día de la Hispanidad.En: The leaves flew to the rhythm of the fresh wind, as if wanting to be part of the celebration of the Día de la Hispanidad.Es: Mientras la música y las risas llenaban el aire, Marisol, con su abrigo marrón claro y bufanda azul, paseaba entre los puestos de libros de la feria.En: As the music and laughter filled the air, Marisol, with her light brown coat and blue scarf, wandered among the book stalls of the fair.Es: En un rincón polvoriento, encontró una pequeña librería de segunda mano.En: In a dusty corner, she found a small second-hand bookstore.Es: Era un lugar acogedor, lleno de estanterías viejas y libros amontonados con historias esperando a ser descubiertas.En: It was a cozy place, full of old shelves and piled-up books with stories waiting to be discovered.Es: Marisol seleccionaba los libros con cuidado, pasando sus dedos sobre las tapas gastadas.En: Marisol carefully selected the books, running her fingers over the worn covers.Es: De repente, un título llamó su atención: **"La Historia Secreta de Madrid.En: Suddenly, a title caught her attention: **"La Historia Secreta de Madrid.Es: "** Al abrir el libro, un papel amarillento cayó entre los dedos de Marisol.En: "** Upon opening the book, a yellowing piece of paper fell into Marisol's fingers.Es: Era una nota críptica escrita en tinta desvaída: "La verdad yace donde las sombras del pasado aún susurran.En: It was a cryptic note written in faded ink: "The truth lies where the shadows of the past still whisper.Es: Busca la llave."En: Seek the key."Es: Intrigada por el misterio, Marisol se dirigió al mostrador, donde Joaquín, el dueño de la tienda, sonreía amable.En: Intrigued by the mystery, Marisol approached the counter, where Joaquín, the store's owner, smiled kindly.Es: Era un hombre joven, pero sus ojos tenían la sabiduría de alguien que había leído más historias de las contadas.En: He was a young man, but his eyes held the wisdom of someone who had read more stories than could be counted.Es: "¿Joaquín, sabes algo sobre esta nota?"En: "Joaquín, do you know anything about this note?"Es: preguntó Marisol, mostrándosela.En: Marisol asked, showing it to him.Es: Joaquín la miró con cautela.En: Joaquín looked at her cautiously.Es: Era un secreto familiar, un enigma que él prefería mantener oculto.En: It was a family secret, an enigma he preferred to keep hidden.Es: "Es solo una leyenda, nada más", murmuró, incómodo.En: "It's just a legend, nothing more," he murmured, uneasy.Es: Pero Marisol no podía dejarlo.En: But Marisol couldn't let it go.Es: La nota había despertado su curiosidad y, quizás, algo más profundo: un deseo de conexión que siempre había sentido en la gran y solitaria ciudad.En: The note had sparked her curiosity and, perhaps, something deeper: a desire for connection she had always felt in the large and lonely city.Es: "Por favor, ayúdame," insistió, sus ojos brillando con determinación.En: "Please, help me," she insisted, her eyes shining with determination.Es: Finalmente, su insistencia y encanto persuadieron a Joaquín.En: Finally, her insistence and charm persuaded Joaquín.Es: Decidieron seguir las pistas, pese a sus temores.En: They decided to follow the clues, despite their fears.Es: Las calles de Madrid guiaron a Marisol y Joaquín hasta un viejo caserón en las afueras de la ciudad.En: The streets of Madrid led Marisol and Joaquín to an old manor on the outskirts of the city.Es: El lugar parecía olvidado por el tiempo, envuelto en un silencio que solo perturbaba el crujir de las hojas bajo sus pies.En: The place seemed forgotten by time, wrapped in a silence disturbed only by the crunching of leaves underfoot.Es: Entraron al edificio, y en el sótano, encontraron una puerta oculta.En: They entered the building, and in the basement, found a hidden door.Es: Dentro, una sala secreta desveló un tesoro de artefactos y documentos que revelaban una increíble historia: ambas familias, la de Marisol y la de Joaquín, compartían un lazo ancestral, unidos por un amor prohibido que había cambiado el curso de sus historias.En: Inside, a secret room revealed a treasure of artifacts and documents that unveiled an incredible history: both families, Marisol's and Joaquín's, shared an ancestral bond, united by a forbidden love that had changed the course of their stories.Es: Marisol, con lágrimas en los ojos, comprendió que no estaba sola.En: Marisol, with tears in her eyes, understood that she was not alone.Es: Su conexión con Madrid no era una ilusión.En: Her connection with Madrid was not an illusion.Es: Era real y poderosa.En: It was real and powerful.Es: Joaquín, por su parte, aceptó que compartir su carga no era una debilidad, sino una forma de enriquecer su vida.En: Joaquín, for his part, accepted that sharing his burden was not a weakness, but a way to enrich his life.Es: Mientras salían del caserón, el aire estaba lleno de esperanza y nuevas posibilidades.En: As they left the manor, the air was filled with hope and new possibilities.Es: La Plaza Mayor aún retumbaba con la celebración, pero ahora, para Marisol y Joaquín, significaba mucho más que una fiesta.En: The Plaza Mayor still echoed with the celebration, but now, for Marisol and Joaquín, it meant much more than a party.Es: Era el inicio de una nueva historia, una de comunidad, descubrimiento y amistad.En: It was the beginning of a new story, one of community, discovery, and friendship.Es: Marisol sentía que por fin había encontrado su lugar, no solo en la ciudad, sino también en una nueva realidad compartida con Joaquín.En: Marisol felt she had finally found her place, not just in the city, but also in a new reality shared with Joaquín.Es: Y así, el pasado dejó de ser un misterio, convirtiéndose en el lazo que los unía al presente y al futuro.En: And so, the past ceased to be a mystery, becoming the bond that united them to the present and the future. Vocabulary Words:the leaves: las hojasautumn: otoñothe bookstore: la libreríaworn: gastadasthe note: la notacryptic: crípticafaded: desvaídato whisper: susurrarthe truth: la verdadthe key: la llavethe counter: el mostradorthe wisdom: la sabiduríathe legend: la leyendauneasy: incómodothe burden: la cargathe manor: el caserónthe outskirts: las afuerasto disturb: perturbarthe basement: el sótanohidden: ocultathe artifact: el artefactoancestral: ancestralforbidden: prohibidothe bond: el lazolonely: solitariathe connection: la conexióndetermination: determinacióncharm: encantothe friendship: la amistadthe reality: la realidad

She sold her advertising agency to write stories about the fierce, overlooked women who built America. CK Van Dam's debut novel, Proving Her Claim, has already won two Spur Awards and immerses readers in a frontier romance as bold and expansive as the Dakota plains themselves. In this episode, CK shares the inspiration behind her “On the Dakota Frontier” series, why she chose to spotlight unconventional heroines like Anna Olson, and how historical fiction can challenge the myths we've been told about the American West. If you're looking for adventure, romance, and action all woven into a powerful story of resilience and reinvention, you won't want to miss this conversation. Quotes: “History is full of women who were strong, resourceful, and too often forgotten.” “Romance on the frontier wasn't just about love—it was about survival.” “Fiction lets us reimagine the past and reclaim voices that history left out.” Resources: Follow CK Van Dam on Facebook Connect with CK Van Dam on LinkedIn On the Dakota Frontier

Fluent Fiction - Hungarian: Secrets Beneath Aquincum: A Historian's Quest for Wisdom Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hu/episode/2025-10-08-22-34-02-hu Story Transcript:Hu: A nap éppen csak lebukott a horizontról, amikor Tibor és Eszter megérkeztek az Aquincum ősi romjaihoz.En: The sun had just slipped below the horizon when Tibor and Eszter arrived at the ancient ruins of Aquincum.Hu: Az őszi nap vörös és narancs színben festette az eget, a levelek zizegtek a lábuk alatt.En: The autumn sun painted the sky in red and orange hues, and the leaves rustled under their feet.Hu: A fák ágai varázslatos suttogással hajoltak a föld felé, mintha maguk is őriznék a titkokat.En: The branches of the trees leaned toward the ground with a magical whisper, as if they too were guarding secrets.Hu: Aquincumnak, Budapest közelében, sok kincse van.En: Aquincum, near Budapest, holds many treasures.Hu: Tibor, a történész, akinek szíve az ókori kultúrák iránti szenvedéllyel égett, egy legendás ereklyét keresett.En: Tibor, a historian whose heart burned with a passion for ancient cultures, was searching for a legendary relic.Hu: Azt mondták, hogy aki megtalálja, nagy bölcsességet kap.En: It was said that whoever found it would gain great wisdom.Hu: Tibor hitt ebben, és meg akarta találni, hogy igazolja elméleteit a római hatásról a magyar történelemre.En: Tibor believed in this and wanted to find it to prove his theories about the Roman influence on Hungarian history.Hu: Eszter, az elismert régész, vele volt.En: Eszter, the renowned archaeologist, was with him.Hu: Ő nem hitt a legendában, de tisztelte Tibor elhivatottságát.En: She did not believe in the legend but respected Tibor's dedication.Hu: Vigyázott, hogy a romok ne sérüljenek meg.En: She was careful to ensure the ruins were not damaged.Hu: Meg akarta őrizni a múltat a jövő generációknak.En: She wanted to preserve the past for future generations.Hu: Ahogy beléptek a romok közé, a római oszlopok szelíden emelkedtek körülöttük.En: As they entered the ruins, the Roman columns rose gently around them.Hu: "Vigyázz, Tibor, az emlékek törékenyek" – figyelmeztette Eszter.En: "Be careful, Tibor, memories are fragile," Eszter warned.Hu: Tibor bólintott, de eltökélt maradt.En: Tibor nodded but remained determined.Hu: Azt a kamrát keresték, amelyről azt mondták, hogy egy ősi király rejtekhelye.En: They were searching for the chamber said to be an ancient king's hiding place.Hu: A pletykák szerint az ereklye ott van.En: Rumor had it that the relic was there.Hu: Kora délután találták meg.En: They found it early in the afternoon.Hu: Egy rejtett bejáratot fedtek fel, tele titokzatos jelekkel.En: They uncovered a hidden entrance filled with mysterious signs.Hu: Amint beléptek, valami megváltozott.En: As they entered, something changed.Hu: A föld remegett alattuk.En: The ground trembled beneath them.Hu: Feszültebbé váltak.En: They became more tense.Hu: "Ez lehet az" – suttogta Tibor áhítattal.En: "This could be it," Tibor whispered in awe.Hu: De Eszter ráncolta a homlokát.En: But Eszter frowned.Hu: "Nézd!En: "Look!Hu: Ez a hely instabil.En: This place is unstable."Hu: "Hirtelen a boltozat megrepedt.En: Suddenly, the vault cracked.Hu: Föld rázúdult a kamrába.En: Earth poured into the chamber.Hu: Ki kellett menekülniük, mielőtt minden összeomlott volna.En: They had to escape before everything collapsed.Hu: Szívverésük visszhangzott a csendben, ahogy épphogy kimenekültek.En: Their heartbeats echoed in the silence as they narrowly escaped.Hu: A kamra mögöttük beomlott, eltemetve a titkokat.En: The chamber collapsed behind them, burying its secrets.Hu: Tibor megállt, légzése gyors volt és nehéz.En: Tibor stopped, his breathing fast and heavy.Hu: Aztán elmosolyodott.En: Then he smiled.Hu: "A hely története fontosabb annál, mint amit találtunk volna" – mondta, miközben körbetekintett.En: "The history of the place is more important than what we could have found," he said, looking around.Hu: Eszter elmosolyodott.En: Eszter smiled.Hu: "Jól mondod, Tibor.En: "You're right, Tibor.Hu: Néha a pillanat megélése a legfontosabb.En: Sometimes living in the moment is what matters most."Hu: "A nap sugarai ismét felragyogtak, aranyszínű fényük rávilágítva mindarra, amit megtanultak.En: The sun's rays shone again, their golden light illuminating all they had learned.Hu: Bár az ereklye titka rejtve maradt, a romok története élő maradt.En: Although the secret of the relic remained hidden, the story of the ruins stayed alive.Hu: Tibor és Eszter pedig hazatértek, megváltozva, egy új szemlélettel a múltról és önmagukról.En: Tibor and Eszter returned home, transformed, with a new perspective on the past and themselves. Vocabulary Words:horizon: horizontslipped: lebukottrustled: zizegtekwhisper: suttogásguarding: őriznékhistorian: történészrelic: ereklyelegendary: legendáswisdom: bölcsességdedication: elhivatottságpreserve: megőriznicolumn: oszlopokfragile: törékenydetermined: eltökéltchamber: kamralegend: legendábanunstable: instabilvault: boltozattrembled: remegettentrance: bejáratmysterious: titokzatosrumor: pletykákcollapsed: beomlottburied: eltemetvetransformed: megváltozvaperspective: szemléletinfluence: hatásarchaeologist: régészrenowned: elismertescape: kimenekültek

Fluent Fiction - Spanish: Alchemy of Autumn: A Journey in Granada's Historic Heart Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/es/episode/2025-10-08-07-38-19-es Story Transcript:Es: El aire de otoño era fresco en Granada, y las hojas caían lentamente como si fueran de oro.En: The autumn air in Granada was crisp, and the leaves fell slowly as if they were made of gold.Es: La Alhambra brillaba bajo el sol, con su arquitectura morisca intrincada y sus jardines verdes que susurraban historias del pasado.En: The Alhambra shined under the sun, with its intricate Moorish architecture and its green gardens that whispered stories from the past.Es: Este era el paisaje que recibía a Mateo, un joven historiador en busca de inspiración para su tesis, y que, por esas casualidades del destino, también había atraído a Ines, una viajera apasionada por descubrir sus raíces culturales.En: This was the landscape that greeted Mateo, a young historian in search of inspiration for his thesis, and which, by those whims of fate, also attracted Ines, a traveler passionate about discovering her cultural roots.Es: Mateo había llegado temprano.En: Mateo had arrived early.Es: Le fascinaban los relatos sobre la Alhambra, un lugar tan lleno de historia que prometía secretos escondidos listos para ser revelados.En: He was fascinated by the tales of the Alhambra, a place so full of history that promised hidden secrets ready to be revealed.Es: Sin embargo, mientras sus ojos se admiraban en las paredes grabadas, su mente seguía bloqueada.En: However, while his eyes admired the engraved walls, his mind remained blocked.Es: Carlos, el guía turístico, era un personaje alegre y astuto.En: Carlos, the tour guide, was a cheerful and cunning character.Es: Su voz resonaba en el patio con entusiasmo mientras explicaba historias que parecían cobrar vida.En: His voice resonated in the courtyard with enthusiasm as he explained stories that seemed to come to life.Es: "Esta fortaleza ha visto imperios desaparecer," dijo, capturando la atención de todos, incluidos Mateo e Ines.En: "This fortress has seen empires disappear," he said, capturing the attention of everyone, including Mateo and Ines.Es: Ines, que escuchaba con atención, no pudo evitar hacer preguntas profundas.En: Ines, who listened attentively, couldn't help but ask deep questions.Es: Su interés por el lugar iba más allá de la mera curiosidad; era un deseo de conectar con algo profundamente personal.En: Her interest in the place went beyond mere curiosity; it was a desire to connect with something deeply personal.Es: Mateo, al escucharla, sintió un impulso.En: Mateo, hearing her, felt a sudden impulse.Es: Decidió que debía hablarle.En: He decided he should talk to her.Es: Tal vez, pensó, sus inquietudes podrían ayudarle a encontrar el camino que buscaba.En: Perhaps, he thought, her insights could help him find the path he was looking for.Es: Al final del tour, Mateo se acercó a Ines.En: At the end of the tour, Mateo approached Ines.Es: "Tienes un punto de vista muy interesante," dijo, con una mezcla de nervios y admiración.En: "You have a very interesting point of view," he said, with a mix of nerves and admiration.Es: Ines, acostumbrada a viajar sola, se sintió inmediatamente comprendida.En: Ines, accustomed to traveling alone, immediately felt understood.Es: Decidió confiar en él y compartir su conexión personal con la Alhambra.En: She decided to trust him and share her personal connection with the Alhambra.Es: "Mis abuelos eran de aquí," confesó, mientras sus ojos brillaban con emoción.En: "My grandparents were from here," she confessed, her eyes shining with emotion.Es: Juntos continuaron explorando, dejándose llevar por los recovecos del pasado.En: Together they continued exploring, letting themselves be carried away by the nooks of the past.Es: Carlos los vio como si fuera un director de orquesta que ha logrado una melodía perfecta.En: Carlos watched them as if he were an orchestra conductor who had achieved a perfect melody.Es: "Ahí," les señaló, "pueden encontrar una parte no tan conocida de la Alhambra."En: "There," he pointed out to them, "you can find a lesser-known part of the Alhambra."Es: Guiados por la intriga, Mateo e Ines descubrieron un patio oculto.En: Driven by intrigue, Mateo and Ines discovered a hidden courtyard.Es: Las paredes estaban cubiertas de inscripciones olvidadas por el tiempo.En: The walls were covered with inscriptions forgotten by time.Es: Mientras observaban, algo pequeño brilló entre las piedras: un antiguo amuleto morisco.En: As they observed, something small glimmered among the stones: an ancient Moorish amulet.Es: Era un hallazgo raro y valioso.En: It was a rare and valuable find.Es: El descubrimiento desató una profunda conversación entre ellos.En: The discovery sparked a deep conversation between them.Es: Hablaron sobre la identidad, sobre cómo las huellas del pasado persisten en el tiempo presente.En: They talked about identity, about how the traces of the past persist in the present time.Es: El amuleto no solo era una pieza de historia; se convirtió en un símbolo de la conexión entre ambos.En: The amulet was not only a piece of history; it became a symbol of the connection between them.Es: Con renovada inspiración, Mateo encontró la perspectiva única que tanto buscaba para su tesis.En: With renewed inspiration, Mateo found the unique perspective he had been seeking for his thesis.Es: Ines, al encontrar una conexión tangible con sus ancestros, sintió que finalmente pertenecía a algún lugar.En: Ines, finding a tangible connection with her ancestors, felt that she finally belonged somewhere.Es: Decidieron embarcarse juntos en esta aventura académica y personal.En: They decided to embark together on this academic and personal adventure.Es: La Alhambra, con su silencio histórico, fue testigo del inicio de su viaje compartido.En: The Alhambra, with its historic silence, witnessed the beginning of their shared journey.Es: Para Mateo, era el comienzo de una investigación llena de vida; para Ines, era el descubrimiento de su hogar y de un compañero de vida.En: For Mateo, it was the start of a research full of life; for Ines, it was the discovery of her home and a life companion.Es: Entre las hojas doradas y los susurros del pasado, la historia de Mateo e Ines floreció, tan hermosa y llena de promesas como el lugar donde empezó.En: Amid the golden leaves and the whispers of the past, the story of Mateo and Ines blossomed, as beautiful and full of promises as the place where it began.Es: Así, bajo el abrazo acogedor del otoño en la Alhambra, dieron los primeros pasos de su nueva travesía.En: Thus, under the warm embrace of autumn in the Alhambra, they took the first steps of their new journey. Vocabulary Words:the autumn: el otoñocrisp: frescointricate: intrincadathe landscape: el paisajethe whim: el caprichothe thesis: la tesisthe secret: el secretoto reveal: revelarengraved: grabadasblocked: bloqueadathe guide: el guíathe courtyard: el patiothe empire: el imperioto capture: capturarthe insight: la perspicaciathe nooks: los recovecosthe conductor: el directorthe melody: la melodíalesser-known: menos conocidathe courtyard: el patiothe inscription: la inscripciónthe amulet: el amuletothe find: el hallazgoto persist: persistirthe trace: la huellathe silence: el silenciothe embrace: el abrazoto blossom: florecerthe journey: la travesíathe whisper: el susurro

This week, Becca from the Royal Oak Public Library joins Jeff & Mary Grahame, here at Ferndale, to chat about some deeply held appreciations for historical fiction, particularly from the late 90's and into the early 00's, with a focus on the American Girl book series, along with Dear America, and others! This inevitably leads into discussions of Banned Books Week, which, by the way, we're in the middle of, right now!  Banned Books Week celebrates the freedom to read and raises awareness about attempts to censor/remove books from the shelves of public libraries, school libraries, and bookstores.   

One of the most competitive Chanticleer Divisions, the Goethe Awards features Late Historical Fiction from around the world. Good luck to these Long Listers!

Send us a textThe Red Palace by June HurThe year is 1758, and the place is Korea. Hyeon has accomplished her dream of becoming a palace nurse. After many years of studying, she hopes to make her father proud. A father who barely even acknowledges her existence since she is his illegitimate daughter. However, when four women are murdered, one of them a palace nurse and the others students and a teacher where Hyeon studied to become a nurse, she is devastated. Even more so, when the woman who has been like a mother to her, is accused of being the murderer. Hyeon knows she must find the true killer and prove her mentor innocent, but time is running out. Recommended for 8th grade and up. Support the show

This week, we have some chaotic dog interruptions, I recorded int he dark because I couldn't even with the light, AND we broke a record and talked about more than 30 books in one episode!! Enjoy the chaos that is Gare, Steph and my 10 Before the End episode.Kate's  10 Before the EndWhat We Leave Behind by Wanda Morrishttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/250326a1-6252-41eb-8fbd-318b3903b56cCamp Damascus by Chuck Tinglehttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/3e324bb5-9f00-4258-817b-00c69ad824f7The Midnight Knock by John Framhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/46ce3210-0707-4b1d-89b7-0c573c72aca8When They Burned the Butterfly by Wen-Yi Leehttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/e294b55a-9bf5-42cd-a8c2-88aa2f65c91bBoom Town by Nic Stonehttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/81091a8c-97c2-4037-aaaf-666230289df8The Blind Assassin by Margaret Atwoodhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/3aaf1dab-83a2-4089-9345-680455651355James by Percival Everetthttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/cd626fd8-11de-458a-a71a-4b1c64c86ff1Social Creature by Tara Isabella Burtonhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/cda69bb3-94a7-4b17-82ef-3036a098d7cdBeautyland by Marie-Helene Bertinohttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/a5d8c362-9ccc-4bfa-869c-44c8847b17efI, Medusa by Ayana Grayhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/e2c48dc1-1ee0-4904-9b6e-d53e3f23712b Gare's 10 Before the EndForget You Saw Her Noelle W Ihlihttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/bbd97b5b-38b0-4982-bb5d-60fcee5a243cHaven't Killed In Years by Amy K. Greenhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/70c6f0b5-c572-4689-b5e5-880199ce497cWe Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewerhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/49154c03-2e3c-4b00-b63f-1d6a7ef61fdbWatch Us Fall by Christina Kovachttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/25a51cf8-34f3-41d5-aefa-f4ff20d1159cWith Friends Like These by Alissa Leehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/224004584-with-friends-like-these?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=9sa6BhhMqr&rank=1The Fix by Mia Sheridanhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/7642f03d-53ab-441d-bfc2-c435fde870a1Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashinohttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/03c6a590-d537-4566-8bb2-0147089b467dIf I Go Missing by Leslie Wolfehttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/4a5751dd-ce3d-4d23-b7e5-21d8c95028b4The Wives of Hawthorne Lane by Stephanie DeCarolishttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/345b587e-4541-496e-91d6-9738a1e5534aThe Haunting by Natasha Prestonhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/2ebce8b2-c94b-489f-87a4-bcff8591d1d8 Steph's  10 Before the EndThe Adults by Alison Espachhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/b9ebc09a-4c52-4a56-a833-b25b38572ac8The Artist of Blackberry Grange by Paulette Jacksonhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/1d352936-217c-4d99-a0a3-8e5167d6c7cfBreakneck Bay by Faith Gardnerhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/886205bb-7647-4a28-b688-71c275927c32Still True by Maggie Ginsburghttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/b2973ace-7b9a-47c8-9bde-faf6b87874e3Heartbroke by Chelsea Biekerhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/9ee3902f-6e65-4e7e-992d-cf742c3938efIs This A Cry For Help by Emily Austinhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/868d3c84-e887-4075-adea-460a26d5eb79Matchmaking for Psychopaths by Tasha Coryellhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/7fe84956-aabb-4e62-9fbb-66813da5b7c5This Girl's a Killer by Emma C. Wellshttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/ad549123-76a8-442c-a809-789048a5902aLove You to Death by Christina Dotsonhttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/4ffd068e-b2da-4108-9e79-409aff0c9a9cThe Lighthouse Witches by C.J. Cookehttps://app.thestorygraph.com/books/bb8fdd23-aaa5-4103-8972-427720e99382 Get Bookwild MerchCheck Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackCheck Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck out the Imposter Hour Podcast with Liz and GregFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrian

My guest today is Dr. Colleen Darnell, who will speak to us about New Kingdom literature (featuring rulers like Ramesses, Thutmose III, Seqenenra, and more). It's a fun discussion, ranging from the calamitous death of Seqenenra Tao, to the triumphs of Thutmose III and Ramesses II, to the divine glamour of chariots, and how pharaohs became literary "heroes." Dr. Colleen Darnell's website: https://www.colleendarnell.com/ Online classes about ancient Egyptian history and culture: https://www.colleendarnell.com/classes Dr. Colleen Darnell at Academia.edu: https://yale.academia.edu/ColleenManassaDarnell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buckle up Fans! The Fan Girls are ready to dish and spill the tea on Marvel's latest hit animated show "Eyes of Wakanda"! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Avid readers, numerous genres are served up in this lively episode: Many of the engrossing novels seem primed to be turned into limited-edition streaming series. (Read them first!) Hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Ellison Weist talk up: -Fifteen Wild Decembers: Karen Powell-The Art of a Lie: Laura Shepherd-Robinson-The Dentist: Tim Sullivan-To the Moon and Back: Eliana Ramage-The Phoebe Variations: Jane Hamilton Here's the half-marathon and marathon nutrition program. When you shop our sponsors, you help AMR.We appreciate your—and their—support! Fuel + stay hydrated: Save 20% with code AMR2520at GUenergy.com through 11/30/25 Get 20% off, plus free shipping, on allIQBAR products by texting AMR to 64-000 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you into trivia? Calling all connoisseurs of the cryptic to the only quiz played live, all around Australia. Join the host of Nightlife Philip Clark for The Mighty Challenge!   

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Unveiling the Sistine Secret: A Tale of Hidden Artistry Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-09-16-22-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: La luce soffusa delle candele illuminava appena gli affreschi della Cappella Sistina.En: The soft light of the candles barely illuminated the frescoes of the Cappella Sistina.It: Marcello osservava le ombre danzare sul soffitto, riflettendo sul loro significato segreto.En: Marcello watched the shadows dance on the ceiling, reflecting on their secret meaning.It: Era l'autunno, e l'atmosfera era impregnata di mistero, accentuata dalla Festa di San Gennaro appena celebrata.En: It was autumn, and the atmosphere was filled with mystery, accentuated by the recently celebrated Festa di San Gennaro.It: Improvvisamente, un sussurro attraversò la folla di visitatori.En: Suddenly, a whisper passed through the crowd of visitors.It: Il buio era calato con un improvviso blackout, lasciando tutti sospesi tra meraviglia e sorpresa.En: The darkness descended with an unexpected blackout, leaving everyone suspended between wonder and surprise.It: Marcello, artigiano della storia dell'arte, sentì crescere l'adrenalina.En: Marcello, an artisan of art history, felt adrenaline rising.It: Questa era la sua occasione.En: This was his chance.It: "Devo trovare il pezzo perduto di Michelangelo," pensò Marcello, il cuore che batteva forte.En: "I must find Michelangelo's lost piece," thought Marcello, his heart pounding.It: Ricordava una storia raccontatagli da suo nonno, un racconto di un'opera nascosta tra le pennellate del maestro.En: He remembered a story told to him by his grandfather, a tale of a hidden work among the master's brushstrokes.It: Accanto a lui, Giulia e Alessandro cercavano di calmare la folla.En: Next to him, Giulia and Alessandro were trying to calm the crowd.It: Giulia, con la sua dolce voce rassicurante, invitava alla calma.En: Giulia, with her sweet reassuring voice, urged calmness.It: Alessandro, invece, scrutava Marcello con sguardo indagatore.En: Alessandro, on the other hand, scrutinized Marcello with an inquisitive look.It: Quel giorno avrebbe potuto portare a galla motivazioni nascoste.En: That day could bring hidden motives to light.It: Marcello sapeva che doveva scegliere di chi fidarsi.En: Marcello knew he had to choose whom to trust.It: Giulia, amica di lunga data, era sempre stata leale.En: Giulia, a longtime friend, had always been loyal.It: Alessandro, nuovo nella cerchia, aveva però mostrato interesse negli antichi segreti della Cappella.En: Alessandro, new to the circle, had shown interest in the ancient secrets of the Cappella.It: Con decisione, Marcello si avvicinò a Giulia.En: With determination, Marcello approached Giulia.It: "Hai il mio aiuto," disse lei prontamente, intuendo la sua esitazione.En: "You have my help," she said promptly, sensing his hesitation.It: Entrambi si mossero verso l'altare maggiore, dove Marcello sospettava fosse celata la chiave del mistero.En: Together, they moved toward the main altar, where Marcello suspected the key to the mystery might be hidden.It: Guidati dalla tenue luce dei cellulari, Marcello e Giulia trovarono una piccola fessura nel pavimento, mai notata prima.En: Guided by the faint light of cell phones, Marcello and Giulia found a small crack in the floor, never noticed before.It: Marcello, con mani tremanti ma determinate, aprì il compartimento segreto.En: Marcello, with trembling but determined hands, opened the secret compartment.It: All'interno, una vecchia pergamena avvolta con cura portava l'inconfondibile firma di Michelangelo.En: Inside, an old scroll carefully wrapped bore Michelangelo's unmistakable signature.It: Marcello trattenne il respiro, il suo sogno era realtà.En: Marcello held his breath; his dream was reality.It: Ma un rumore di passi interruppe il momento.En: But a sound of footsteps interrupted the moment.It: Alessandro li aveva seguiti, i suoi occhi fissavano il documento.En: Alessandro had followed them, his eyes fixed on the document.It: "Non tutto è come sembra, Marcello," disse, la voce carica di una verità nascosta.En: "Not everything is as it seems, Marcello," he said, his voice laden with a hidden truth.It: Marcello comprese in quel momento che Alessandro sapeva di più di quanto avesse mai lasciato intendere.En: Marcello understood at that moment that Alessandro knew more than he had ever let on.It: Sulle sue labbra fiorì un sorriso comprensivo.En: A knowing smile appeared on his lips.It: "I segreti non sono fatti per tutti," pensò.En: "Secrets aren't meant for everyone," he thought.It: Decise che il mondo non era pronto.En: He decided that the world wasn't ready.It: Richiuse il compartimento con cura, ripiegando il documento.En: He carefully closed the compartment, folding the document.It: Un attimo dopo, le luci si riaccesero.En: A moment later, the lights came back on.It: La Cappella tornò alla vita normale, le ombre svanite, i segreti al sicuro.En: The Cappella returned to normal life, the shadows vanished, the secrets safe.It: Marcello guardò Giulia e Alessandro, consapevole della lezione appresa.En: Marcello looked at Giulia and Alessandro, aware of the lesson learned.It: Il potere del passato era troppo grande per essere rivelato senza conseguenze.En: The power of the past was too great to be revealed without consequences.It: In silenzio, lasciarono la Cappella, mentre nel cuore di Marcello si insediava una nuova responsabilità: preservare la storia e le sue meraviglie invisibili, abbracciando il peso della conoscenza e la quiete del mistero.En: In silence, they left the Cappella, while in Marcello's heart settled a new responsibility: to preserve history and its invisible wonders, embracing the weight of knowledge and the quiet of mystery. Vocabulary Words:the candle: la candelathe fresco: l'affrescothe shadow: l'ombrathe ceiling: il soffittothe mystery: il misterothe visitor: il visitatorethe whisper: il sussurrothe crowd: la follathe blackout: il blackoutthe artisan: l'artigianothe adrenaline: l'adrenalinathe tale: il raccontothe brushstroke: la pennellatathe motive: la motivazionethe circle: la cerchiathe altar: l'altarethe crack: la fessurathe scroll: la pergamenathe signature: la firmathe document: il documentothe footstep: il passothe truth: la veritàthe secret: il segretothe responsibility: la responsabilitàthe knowledge: la conoscenzathe wonder: la meravigliathe autumn: l'autunnothe occasion: l'occasionereassuring: rassicurantedetermined: determinato

In this episode Krish dives into Dracula & Daughters by Emma Carroll, the first in a brand new historical fantasy series that is equal parts thrilling spooky and inspiring. The story follows Mina Cullers, a determined girl who dreams of becoming the first female doctor in her town. But when her best friend is bitten by a vampire Mina teams up with her bold sister Buffy and mysterious cousin Bella to save him before the vampire contagion spreads under the full moon.Krish also sits down with Emma Carroll, bestselling author often called “the Queen of Historical Fiction.” Emma shares the inspiration behind Dracula & Daughters, how folklore from around the world shaped her unique vampire lore and why it is so important for children to see brave clever heroines at the heart of stories. Together they explore how books teach empathy, the challenges facing children's reading today and the magic of finding that one story that makes you say “more please.”Key topics covered in this episode:How Emma Carroll reinvented vampire myths for a new generation of readersWhy strong brave characters in stories matter for childrenThe reading for pleasure crisis and why it needs urgent attentionHow books nurture empathy courage and understanding of the wider worldThe importance of sharing stories with friends and familyWhy every child can be a reader if they find the right bookThe book Emma would time travel to give her younger self and why Follow Emma Carroll Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emcarrollauthor/Website: ⁠ https://emmacarrollauthor.wordpress.com/Follow KrishInstagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/krishthepodcaster⁠ Follow The Fourth Bookmark Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thefourthbookmark

This week, Gare, Steph and I share books we are excited about on our Fall TBRs!Books We Talked AboutThe Reformatory by Tananarive DueSalt Bones by Jennifer GivhanKeep This for Me by Jennifer FawcettThe Women of Wild Hill by Kirsten MillerCursed Daughters by Oyinkan BraithwaiteThe Hitchhikers by Chevy StevensThe Mad Wife by Meagan ChurchAlchemy of Secrets by Stephanie GarberThe Intruder by Freida McFaddenThrough Our Teeth by Pamela N. HarrisThe Haunting of Room 904 by Erica T. WurthThe Bone Thief by Vanessa LillieLife and Death and Giants by Bob Rinaldi Get Bookwild MerchCheck Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackCheck Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck out the Imposter Hour Podcast with Liz and GregFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrian

Send us a textIn today's episode our stack of books is tied together with the common connection of Historical Fiction...we are looking to the past for inspiration!  Join us as we delve into some FAB Historical Novels!  Plus, we'll share a Book in Hand.  Who says you can't live in the past??Featured Books:The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis (LH)Vera by Carol Edgarian (LH)The Dressmakers of London by Julia Kelly (LP)The Lies They Told by Ellen Marie Wiseman (LP)Book in Hand:What You Are Looking For Is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama (LH)Books Mentioned in This Episode:The Address by Fiona DavisThe Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona DavisThe Spectacular by Fiona DavisThe Nature of Fragile Things by Susan MeissnerTake My Hand by Dolen Perkins-ValdezThe Orphan Collector by Ellen Marie WisemanGreen Glass House by Kate MilfordThe Phoenix Crown by Kate Quinn and Janie ChangAdditional Books That Go Along with Our Stack:Homecoming by Yaa GyasiThe Lost English Girl by Julia KellyShadow On The Crown by Patricia BracewellThe Glass Palace by Amitav GhoshNews of the World by Paulette JilesWays to contact us:Join us on Patreon for extra content: https://www.patreon.com/c/BookBumblePodcastFollow us on Instagram - @thebookbumbleFacebook:  Book BumbleOur website:  https://thebookbumble.buzzsprout.comEmail:  bookbumblepodcast@gmail.comSupport the showHelp us grow... please rate and review us!

It's All Been Done Radio Hour #546  Itsahlbend Theatre #28 "Teeny-Weeny: Amelia Earhart Reaches Land"       Amelia and Fred make it to the island, more or less intact...   Visit our website http://iabdpresents.com Script books, clothing, and more at https://amzn.to/3km2TLm Please support us at http://patreon.com/IABD   New episodes streaming live on the 2nd Saturday of every month at 5PM Eastern on Twitch, YouTube, Facebook, and Boxland TV!   Find more from It's All Been Done Radio Hour here: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsallbeendoneradiohour Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iabdpresents/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iabdpresents   A comedy radio show originally performed on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at Boxland in Columbus, Ohio.     STARRING Shane Stefanchik as Archduke Edmund  Kristin Green as Amelia Earhart  Ryan Yohe as Fred Noonan    Narrated by Darren Esler  Foley Artist Megan Overholt  Podcast edited by Trulie Awesome Productions     It's All Been Done Radio Hour created and produced by Jerome Wetzel  Written by Jerome Wetzel  Directed by Rosaleigh Wilson  Music Director Kristin Green  Theme Songs composed by Nathan Haley, with lyrics by Jerome Wetzel  Technical Director Shane Stefanchik    When you post about us, hashtag #IABD   

This week, Gare, Steph and I talk about some of our favorite books we read in August!Books We Talked AboutMy Husband by Maud VenturaToo Old for This by Samantha DowningDon't Forget to Write by Sarah Goodman-ConfinoHappy Land by Dolen Perkins-ValdezThe Locked Ward by Sarah PekkanenKnife River by Justine ChampineDominion by Addie CitchensEveryone is Lying to You by Jo PiazzaEverything is Tuberculosis by John GreenThe Trad Wife's Secret by Liane Child Get Bookwild MerchCheck Out My Stories Are My Religion SubstackCheck Out Author Social Media PackagesCheck out the Bookwild Community on PatreonCheck out the Imposter Hour Podcast with Liz and GregFollow @imbookwild on InstagramOther Co-hosts On Instagram:Gare Billings @gareindeedreadsSteph Lauer @books.in.badgerlandHalley Sutton @halleysutton25Brian Watson @readingwithbrian

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.

Irma and Karen talk about copyright, and the productivity commission's recent recommendations regarding AI. Then Karen talks to Pip Williams about how she shifted from academic research to writing novels, how COVID lockdown inadvertently boosted sales of The Dictionary of Lost Words, how a genius promotions idea for The Bookbinder of Jericho turned into stunning window displays in bookshops, the process of watching her book become a stage play, how writing might be easier than reading for people with dyslexia, how parents can support the writing of children with dyslexia, and how mentorship from other writers has supported her creative journey.About PipPip Williams first book was a memoir, One Italian Summer, and her first novel, The Dictionary of Lost Words, was one of Australia's most successful debuts. It became a New York Times bestseller and was the first Australian novel to be selected for Reese Witherspoon's Book Club. It also won several major Australian literary awards and was shortlisted for the international Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction. Her second novel The Bookbinder of Jericho was also very successful. 

[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

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.

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

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

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.