Afleveringen
-
Dive into Maryland's charm with Cindy Kirk and her book, The Pink House!
For her fictional town of GraceTown, the setting of The Pink House, Cindy chose Frederick, Maryland, as her inspiration. She captures the small-town feel and integrates the local culture and historical elements into her imagined town. From local treats like Old Bay seasoning to authentic cultural nuances, her careful research adds flavor to every story.
Cindy's GraceTown series also explores unique fantasy elements. From an angel helping townsfolk during the Spanish flu to a magical music box transporting through time, her stories are a blend of reality & wonder.
Are you ready to escape to Maryland?
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-129-exploring-maryland-with-author-cindy-kirk/
-
From the hills and trees of the northern lower peninsula to the allure of Mackinac Island and Lake Michigan’s ocean-like shores, this week’s author, Katherine Karrol, introduces us to Michigan.
Discover how Katherine transitioned from wanting to write a funny, self-help book about mental health, into fiction, all while balancing her day job as a therapist. Inspired by chapter prompts during a Wi-Fi-free night, Katherine Karrol found her fiction-writing spark. Her journey proves that sometimes, creativity blooms in the most unexpected moments.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-129-exploring-michigan-with-author-katherine-karrol/
-
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
-
Exploring North Carolina: From Blue Ridge Mountains to Literary Legends with Nancy Robards Thompson
Author Nancy Robards Thompson first guested on Literary Escapes podcast in Episode 26 to talk about her book, Lost In Paris (written under pen name Elizabeth Thompson). Today she’s back to talk about North Carolina and her newest cozy mystery series, The Wedding Bell Mysteries.
Nancy takes us through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant cultural tapestry of western North Carolina, a state she has called home for nearly seven years. From the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains to the charming town of Asheville home of the grand Biltmore Estate, North Carolina’s scenic beauty is unmatched!
North Carolina is also the home of several literary giants of the past – do you know who they are?
In our book of the week, Slay Bells Ring, wedding planner Jenna Bell doesn’t panic when the groom is a no-show to the ceremony but when he turns up dead and she is falsely accused… well, it’s time to panic!
Jenna’s mother, Maddie, is a cozy mystery author and immediately puts her mystery writing skills to use to try to clear her daughter’s name.
Are you ready to go? North Carolina, here we come!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-128-exploring-north-carolina-with-author-nancy-r-thompson/
-
Crafting Cozy Tales in the Natural State
This week we are exploring the natural beauty and small-town charm of Arkansas with author, Tia Marlee.
Tia shares her deep-rooted love for the Natural State, reminiscing about her childhood in the quaint town of Garfield. She paints a vivid picture of serene lakes, lush forests, and the delightful experience of growing up in a close-knit, rural community.
In fact, our book of the week, Wishing for the Girl Next Door, is part of Tia’s Piney Brook series which is inspired by her time spent in northwest Arkansas as a child.
Tia is also part of the Coffee Loft series. Think sweet contemporary romance, fun coffee puns, and interconnected stories. Her next Coffee Loft book, You Mocha Me Crazy, drops later in September.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-127-exploring-arkansas-with-author-tia-marlee/
-
Lakes, Valleys, and Love: Exploring the Unexpected Beauty of Nevada
This week we are headed to Nevada. Author Ginny Sterling shares her memorable adventures in northern Nevada, from her first glimpse of the jaw-dropping beauty of Lake Tahoe to the fun of visiting the old west in Virginia City.
And you can travel virtually to Lake Tahoe as you read Ginny’s books, The Jilted Bride Rescue and The Soulmate Rescue, both set in that gorgeous environment.
Ginny also talks about how receiving fan mail for Lawfully Gifted inspired her to create a series around its characters. After the Remember series, she developed a few other series including the Flyboys and her latest, Hot Shots, which is described as Top Gun meets Indiana Jones, blending suspense, romance, and adventure.
Wherever you go with Ginny’s books, you will be sure to have fun!
(Ginny was also on Episode 93 talking about the Flyboys and Texas - be sure to check it out!)
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-126-exploring-nevada-with-author-ginny-sterling/
-
From Sagebrush to Coastlines: Inside Oregon with a Local Author!
With an immensely varied geography – from rugged coastlines to lava fields, the high desert to the Columbia River and Crater Lake – Oregon is just begging to be explored!
Shanna Hatfield has lived in Oregon for nearly her entire life and she loves sharing her home state with readers. Her writing career started after her husband challenged her to “write a better one” and she has published 123 books since then.
This week we are diving into the charming, quirky world of Summer Creek in "Catching the Cowboy." A billionaire’s daughter serving community service on a ranch? It’s laugh-out-loud funny and full of heartwarming goodness. Plus, you won’t want to miss the town mascot, a goat named Ethel!
Oregon, here we come!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-125-exploring-oregon-with-author-shanna-hatfield/
-
This week’s episode is taking us to the heartland of the US… Nebraska!
Author Kelly Brakenhoff shares hidden gems and surprising facts about the Cornhusker State. From the quirky Carhenge to Nebraska’s largest lake, Lake McConaughy, Kelly paints a vivid picture of a state rich in history and natural beauty. Learn about the friendly Midwestern culture and must-visit spots like the Henry Doorly Zoo and the Willa Cather house!
Our book of the week, Death by Dissertation, stars Cassandra Soto who recently moved from Hawaii to Nebraska. Amidst the culture shock of this transition, she finds herself caught up in a mystery at the local college.
Kelly brings her experience as an ASL interpreter to her stories and she is passionate about representing the deaf community in her books. Her children's series, "Duke the Deaf Dog," introduces kids to deaf culture and American Sign Language (ASL) in an engaging way. Plus, her mystery novels feature deaf characters and provide a unique perspective on various cultures.
Ready to explore Nebraska in a whole new way? Let’s go!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-124-exploring-nebraska-with-author-kelly-brakenhoff/
-
Massachusetts isn't just about Boston! This week we are exploring the rich history, stunning natural beauty, and charming coastal towns of the state with author Meghann Whistler’s book, Their Unlikely Protector.
A gripping opening scene inspired by real-life heroism kicks things off. With fire, bravery, and an old high school nemesis popping up at every turn, this is a book you won't want to miss!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-123-exploring-massachusetts-with-author-meghann-whistler/
-
This week we are unraveling mysteries in North Dakota with author Ellen Jacobson. Inspired by her sister and her husband, her newest cozy mystery series is a love letter to both libraries and North Dakota.
Thea Olson is an amateur sleuth who teams up with her grandmother and the new library director to solve mysteries in the fictional town of Why, North Dakota. Murder at the Library is packed with nods to North Dakota’s vibrant Scandinavian community, adding a rich cultural layer that brings a great sense of place to the story.
You’ll love hearing how Ellen started her writing journey with a sailing blog and how her background in anthropology plays into her stories.
North Dakota is often overlooked and rarely visited but it has so much to offer. Let’s go!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-122-exploring-north-dakota-with-author-ellen-jacobson/
-
This week on the podcast, our adventure leads us to the state of New Jersey.
Have you ever thought about what it might be like to live in a popular vacation destination full time? Our author this week, Kimberly Miller, loved Ocean City's vibe so much she crafted an entire community around it in her book, Flowers for Hattie, and explored the idea of life as a fulltime resident.
Ocean City, NJ, sounds like a dream! Safe, clean, family-friendly beach town that even has a lovely bookstore. Let’s go!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-121-exploring-new-jersey-with-author-kimberly-miller/
-
This week on the podcast, our adventure leads us to the breathtaking state of Montana! Whether you're a fan of historical romance, intrigued by Montana's beauty, or just love a good story with a happy ending, this episode is for you.
Penny Zeller has been passionate about writing since childhood. Starting as a non-fiction writer, she transitioned into creating heartwarming Christian historical romances.
Her stories, filled with faith-filled happily-ever-afters, provide a much-needed escape and a touch of hope in today's world.
Tune in to discover the magic behind her storytelling and why Montana makes the perfect backdrop.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-120-exploring-montana-with-author-penny-zeller/
-
We’re heading to Utah this week with author Brittney Mulliner’s book, Puck Drop!
Utah is full of red rock beauty and perfect for outdoor adventures. Brittney shares her favorite Utah spots, including Moab and Arches National Park. She also shares how a vivid dream during her senior year of college inspired her writing career.
Our book of the week, Puck Drop, is Book 1 of her Utah Fury hockey series. Listen to find out the unexpected connection to Utah’s upcoming NHL team. This Utah Fury hockey series is a reader favorite with 14 compelling books and counting!
Are you ready for love on the ice?
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-119-exploring-utah-with-author-brittney-mulliner/
-
Ready for a literary adventure through the heart of West Virginia?
Lindsey Jesionowski captures the rural charm and mountain beauty of the state and her book "Alone Together," is set in her hometown of Wheeling.
Dive into her creative process as she details how local places, people, and businesses inspired her story, with a mix of real and fictitious places filling the pages.
Whether you're a book lover, a budding writer, or someone looking to explore new places from the comfort of your home, this episode has something for you.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-118-exploring-west-virginia-with-author-lindsey-jesionowski/
-
This week we’re headed into the heart of Indiana with the wonderfully talented Camilla Isley! Camilla, originally from Italy, shares her unique experiences living in South Bend, Indiana, and how the charm of the Midwest influenced her work.
Camilla shares her unconventional transition from a career in science engineering to writing romantic comedies, highlighting how taking online writing courses helped her unlock her storytelling potential.
We also dive into the quirky scenarios she envisions for her characters, such as transforming a book boyfriend into reality in her upcoming book, "It Started with a Book," and the comedic twists in her latest projects. Camilla also gives us a peek into the books she loves to read and how they inspire her creative process.
Join us as we explore Camilla’s literary world filled with wit, romance, and the unexpected!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-117-exploring-indiana-with-author-camilla-isley/
-
This week we’re heading to Arizona with author Lynne Spreen. Her book, “Starting Over in Sedona," involves family estrangement, disputed property, and a mystical story of preserving family land.
From historical sites like Montezuma Well to the striking red rock landscapes, Lynne’s love for Arizona shines through her writing. Another great feature of Lynne’s writing is her mission to portray older women as formidable figures – far from the stereotypical depictions. Her characters are impressive, resilient, and deeply relatable.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-116-exploring-arizona-with-author-lynne-m-spreen/
-
Ready to escape to paradise? This week we are heading to Hawaii with author Elana Johnson and her book Aloha Hideaway Inn.
Hawaii’s enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture are a writer’s dream. Explore the stunning beaches, lush jungles, and awe-inspiring volcanoes across the islands in the Getaway Bay series.
The first book in the series is an enemies-to-lovers billionaire romance. Can Stacey and the Aloha Hideaway Inn survive strange summer weather, the arrival of the new resort, and falling for her enemy?
Also learn more about Elana's unique approach to writing across multiple genres and the creative freedom it brings, from billionaire romances to heartfelt women's fiction in this fun interview.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-115-exploring-hawaii-with-author-elana-johnson/
-
She’s a master at spotting a forgery . . . and knowing how to create one. But can she solve a decades-old mystery? Get ready for "The Crown Conspiracy," an adventure that takes you across Munich, the Alps, and Venice with a blend of stolen paintings, mystery, and even a touch of romance!
In this latest episode, Becki chatted with author Connie Mann about her new book, "The Crown Conspiracy." Connie shares her journey from writing romantic suspense to crafting women-led adventure stories. We dive into her exciting new secret society series set across Venice, Munich, and more. Plus, we discuss the importance of women empowering each other and stepping out of our comfort zones. Don't miss this inspiring conversation and the magic behind her adventurous tales.
If you want to hear even more from Connie Mann, check out her previous interview in Episode 66!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats throughout the United States and around the world through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-114-author-connie-mann-crown-conspiracy/
-
Sweet romance and fixer uppers on the charming Georgia coast – our book of the week is Mr. & Mrs. Fix-it Find Love by Ellie Hall.
The town of Butterbury is fictional, but it’s inspired by the picturesque marshlands, barrier islands, & Spanish moss-draped oaks of coastal Georgia. If you love small towns with quirky characters, this one's for you!
We dive into her creative process, the role of charming small towns and foodie delights in her work, and the unique bargain Ellie struck with her contractor husband that led to the creation of the "Home Sweet Home" series, featuring captivating home improvement shows and plenty of whimsical mishaps.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-113-exploring-georgia-with-author-ellie-hall/
-
Ever wonder why authors choose specific settings for their stories?
For Kerry Evelyn, it started with a character's backstory involving a hockey player and a significant trade to Colorado — spurred by her personal beef with the Colorado Avalanche. What started as a single tale evolved into a beloved series featuring teams like the Denver Edge and Palmer City Voltage.
'That Thing You Brew' is a delightful romantic comedy set against the backdrop of Colorado’s breathtaking mountain vistas. The tale revolves around Xavier and Penny, whose marriage of convenience evolves into a love story as they navigate personal and familial challenges.
Kerry also provides a sneak peek into her upcoming projects and shares her journey from teacher to prolific author, juggling parenthood and writing along the way.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-112-exploring-colorado-with-author-kerry-evelyn/
-
Susan Mellon has lived in Pennsylvania her whole life and brings her love of the vibrant cultural scene in Pittsburgh and the varied geography of the state to her writing.
She discovered her love of writing as a child but life got in the way and she didn’t start her full-time author career until later in life, proving it’s never too late to follow your dreams.
Learn more about our book of the week, “Tag You’re It”, the first of Susan’s Not So Fake series about three brothers living in Pittsburgh – a fun romance perfect for those who enjoy a good, clean love story.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-111-exploring-pennsylvania-with-author-susan-mellon/
- Laat meer zien
