Books & Looks

Step into the pages of history that often escape the limelight. Join us as we explore Heather B. Moore's "Under the Java Moon," a compelling narrative that opens the curtains on Java's POW camps during WWII—a place where even whispers had eyes. Starting each chapter with real survivor accounts, this novel reveals how families, torn from their lives, faced unparalleled challenges.

From Heather's transition from fashion merchandising to becoming a versatile author, to the riveting stories of men, women, and children caught in the war's merciless grip, we dig deep. We'll also explore how wartime fear wasn't confined to one part of the globe, drawing parallels between internment camps in Java and America. As a closing note, we shift from the weight of history to the lightness of tradition, introducing you to the charming Icelandic custom of Jolabokaflod, which turns book-giving into a festive affair. Don't miss this episode; it's a tapestry of forgotten history and a glimpse into cherished traditions.

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Listen on YouTube.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Ali Bryan takes us on a riveting journey through the intricacies of human behavior, set against the unlikely but compelling stage of a karaoke championship and a prison break. Bryan, the mastermind behind the spellbinding "The Crow Valley Karaoke Championships," exposes us to characters wrestling with identity, second chances, and the perpetual struggle between expectations and reality.

Switching gears, we raise our eyebrows at the alarming trends in tourist behavior worldwide. From defacing ancient landmarks to sheer disrespect for local culture, we explore the urgent need for ethical tourism. It's a ride through the beautiful, messy symphony that is human life—each of us a note, each story a melody, together composing the complex harmonies and dissonances that define us.

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Ever wondered why cheese is the most stolen food or how maple syrup can be a hotbed for criminal activity? In this riveting episode, we sit down with Chris Garcia, the mind behind the eye-opening book "Food and Crime," to explore these questions and more. We dive into the four major categories of food-related crimes: theft, fraud, organized crime, and even assault and murder.

From the ancient history of food fraud to the modern-day artichoke mafia, we unravel the complex relationship between what we eat and the darker aspects of human behavior. We also touch on current events, like the tragic case of a young girl killed over McDonald's sauce packets, to illustrate the sometimes devastating intersections of food and crime. Don't miss this episode that serves up a full course of intrigue, history, and societal impact.

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

In this episode, we sit down with Julia Bryan Thomas, the creative mind behind the evocative novel "The Radcliffe Ladies’ Reading Club: A Novel.” Journey with us as we explore the transformative years of the 1950s through the eyes of four first-year students at Radcliffe College. Julia shares her own literary journey, from a childhood filled with letters and poems to fulfilling her dream at the Yale Writers Workshop.

We also discuss the shifting landscape of higher education and the diminishing role of liberal arts. Don't miss our conversation about Julia's upcoming espionage novel set in 1960s Paris and the challenges of writing in extreme weather conditions. Tune in for a rich narrative that transcends time, offering both a nostalgic look back and a critical eye on today's societal norms. As a bonus, listen to me touch on the recent wildfires in Maui, urging a nuanced understanding of their complex causes.

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Join us as we explore a summer's worth of reading – from a unique fictionalized take on Doc Holliday to the latest John Grisham's novel, and everything in between! Discover the gems and the disappointments, hear about upcoming author interviews, and get excited for a fall full of diverse reads. From historical fiction to crime and culinary tales, we've got a packed schedule ready for the booklover in you. We'll be journeying to places like Java, Paris, and Victorian London, tackling subjects like wartime England, airship adventures, and even karaoke championships. Tune in and find your next favorite book!

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Today I speak with author and animal welfare lawyer Fred M. Kray about his book on the death of the legendary racehorse Alydar. Kray shares the story of how he became interested in animal law and his journey investigating the suspicious circumstances surrounding Alydar's death in 1990. The conversation covers the financial pressures facing Alydar's owner, Calumet Farm, and the involvement of Lloyds of London in the investigation. Kray's book is organized like a trial, with the reader kept in suspense until the end. Tune in for an intriguing conversation about a mystery that remains unsolved to this day. Plus, I review "Oranges for Magellan" by Richard Martin, a quirky novel about Joe Magellan, a man with an obsession to climb… flagpoles! Enjoy today’s episode and share it with your friends.

Buy "Broken" by Fred M. Kray: https://amzn.to/3KoIeEC

Buy "Oranges for Magellan" by Richard Martin: https://amzn.to/3XK6i7W

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Books & Looks is a project of Views on Books.

Join us as we saddle up with historian, author, and podcaster Chris Wimmer to explore the rich tapestry of the Old West in the summer of 1876. From the infamous Custer's Last Stand to the birth of professional baseball, Chris offers a glimpse into key events that shaped a nation. We'll also journey into the minds of Western legends like Wyatt Earp and Wild Bill Hickok, the chaotic Northfield Bank robbery, and the passion for Western fiction and culture. Tune in to discover how the American mythos was forged in the fiery crucible of the West, and catch a preview of exciting new projects that promise to breathe life into revolutionary tales.

Buy 'The Summer of 1876' - https://amzn.to/3OO1xZR

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Join us as we delve into the world of books and libraries with Peter Briscoe, author of the novels "The Bookseller," "The Best Read Men in France," and more. As a former head librarian, Peter brings a wealth of knowledge and insight on the current state of the industry and the impact of technology on reading and preservation. This episode is a must-listen for book lovers, librarians, and anyone interested in the future of books and literature. Join us as we explore the evolution of reading and the ongoing debate between print books and ebooks, with a unique perspective from an expert in the field.

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Books & Looks is a project of Views on Books.

Today we sit down with accomplished author Colin Mustful to discuss his upcoming alternate history novel, "Reclaiming Mni Sota." As we dive into a conversation about the largely overlooked US-Dakota War of 1862, we explore the unique narrative styles used to bring to life two characters, Samuel and Waabi. Mustful enlightens us about his background, his experience with a vanity press, and his subsequent journey to launching History Through Fiction Publishing.

Further, we explore the nuances of revisionist history and alternate history, breaking down the differences with Mustful's insights. He elaborates on the painstaking process of blending history and fiction to create a compelling narrative. Not only do we dive into the details of the book, but also discuss broader topics such as the treatment of Dakota and Ojibwe people.

As we wind down, we shift gears to talk about the often overlooked topic of coffee pricing, ignited by a humorous incident involving Warren Buffet's wife. We also recommend a charming South Korean Netflix show "Would You Like A Cup of Coffee?" to our audience. Be sure to listen till the end for a teaser about our special guest in the next episode. Remember to pre-order Mustful's captivating novel, visit his website, and check out other books by History Through Fiction Publishing. Press play, and let's explore history together.

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Today we speak with William Maz, acclaimed author of "The Bucharest Legacy: The Rise of the Oligarchs," an intriguing tale set amidst the socio-political turmoil of 1990s Romania.

Born in Romania to Greek parents, Maz brings a unique perspective to his writing, artfully blending personal experiences with a deft understanding of history and culture. In this episode, we navigate his journey from being a trained physician to becoming a respected author, the inspirations behind his characters, and how his diverse background contributes to the authenticity of his novels.

From discussing Maz's fascinating protagonist, CIA analyst Bill Hefflin, to the riveting themes of power, corruption, and transition in post-communist Romania, we unpack the realism and depth that makes "The Bucharest Legacy" stand out. We also discuss Maz's admiration for authors John le Carré, Eric Ambler, and Olen Steinhauer, and how their works have shaped his own.

Join us as we explore the depth of Romanian culture, history, and food, shedding light on the backdrop against which "The Bucharest Legacy" unfolds.

Don't miss out on this unique blend of literary analysis and historical context. Whether you're a bookworm or a history enthusiast, this episode is one to bookmark!

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.