Books & Looks

Today we welcome Lisa Bailey, a former FBI forensic artist, to discuss her captivating new book, "Clay and Bones." With a unique blend of artistry and investigative skills, Bailey shares her experiences from an extraordinary career in law enforcement.

Book Spotlight: "Clay and Bones"

"Clay and Bones" is a gripping memoir that takes readers behind the scenes of the FBI's forensic art department. Bailey's story weaves together her fascinating casework, the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field, and her personal journey of resilience and self-discovery.

Discussed in this Episode:

• The intricate process of facial reconstruction and how it helps solve complex cases
• Bailey's unexpected path from graphic design to becoming a sought-after forensic artist
• High-profile cases that showcased Bailey's unique skills, including the hunt for notorious fugitive Whitey Bulger
• The intense pressure and working conditions of FBI deployments, from Bogota to Quantico
• Navigating bureaucracy, discrimination, and a toxic work environment within the FBI
• The emotional toll of working on harrowing crimes and how Bailey coped with the darkness
• Life after the FBI: Bailey's new chapter in Portugal and her plans for the future

Links:

• Lisa Bailey Website: https://lisabaileyauthor.com/
• "Clay and Bones" Book: https://amzn.to/3zJH9DN
• Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/IPdfFKZ7ykw

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

David Gibbins, renowned marine archaeologist and bestselling author, joins us to discuss his latest book "A History of the World in Twelve Shipwrecks." With over a dozen novels and numerous non-fiction works to his credit, Gibbins brings a unique blend of academic expertise and storytelling prowess to this fascinating exploration of maritime history.

Book Spotlight: "A History of the World in Twelve Shipwrecks"

This groundbreaking work takes readers on a journey through time, using twelve significant shipwrecks as windows into different historical periods. From Bronze Age traders to World War II vessels, Gibbins weaves together archaeology, history, and adventure to reveal how these sunken treasures reshape our understanding of the past.

Discussed in this Episode:

• The Dover Boat: How a Bronze Age vessel sheds light on early maritime trade and the interconnectedness of ancient cultures
• The link between shipwrecks and literary classics: Connecting archaeological finds to texts like the Epic of Gilgamesh and Homer's Iliad
• Roman-era shipwrecks: Insights into the vast trade networks and daily life during the height of the Roman Empire
• Emperor Justinian's "prefab churches": The fascinating discovery of flat-packed marble churches shipped across the Mediterranean
• The maritime Silk Road: Evidence of sea-based trade routes predating the more famous land routes
• The Mary Rose: How underwater archaeology solved the mystery of King Henry VIII's flagship's sinking
• HMS Terror: The ongoing investigation of Franklin's lost Arctic expedition and its connection to modern underwater exploration techniques

Links:

• David Gibbins Website: https://davidgibbins.com/
• "A History of the World in Twelve Shipwrecks" Book: https://amzn.to/3xG3z8w
• Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VIrB8qv8BmI

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Candice Fleming, award-winning author and historian, joins us to discuss her latest book "The Enigma Girls," a compelling narrative about the young women who played a crucial role in breaking Nazi codes during World War II at Bletchley Park. With over 60 books to her name, Fleming brings her expertise in crafting engaging historical narratives for readers of all ages.

Discussed in this Episode:

• The untold story of teenage girls who became codebreakers at Bletchley Park
• The rigorous secrecy surrounding Bletchley Park and its impact on the young women's lives
• Insights into the Enigma machine and the complex process of breaking German codes
• The challenges of researching and writing about classified wartime operations
• The lasting impact of these young women's contributions to the Allied victory in WWII

Links:

• Candace Fleming Website: https://www.candacefleming.com/
• "The Enigma Girls" Book: https://amzn.to/45CS2U2
• Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1WYnDafvNno

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Today I sit down with K.D. Alden, the brilliant mind behind the biographical fiction novel "Lady Codebreaker." Throughout the interview, we delve into the remarkable true story of Elizabeth Friedman, America's first female cryptologist, whose groundbreaking work helped shape the course of history.

Discussed in this Episode:

• The incredible journey of Elizabeth Friedman from Shakespeare scholar to pioneering codebreaker
• K.D. Alden's meticulous research process and the challenge of blending fact and fiction seamlessly
• The forgotten history of the Tango War and the critical role of cryptology in WWII's South American theater
• The personal struggles and triumphs of a trailblazing woman in a male-dominated field
• Insights on the craft of writing, the publishing industry, and the power of untold stories

Links:

• K.D. Alden Website: https://www.kdalden.com/
• "Lady Codebreaker" Book: https://amzn.to/4b64fSo
• Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rXH38hwOIp0

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Today, we're diving into a fantastic selection of books that have captured my heart and imagination in 2024.

Join me as I explore the captivating world of Venetian mysteries with Donna Leon's "Uniform Justice," and unravel the secrets behind a lost Van Gogh painting in Jonathan Santlofer's gripping thriller, "The Lost Van Gogh." We'll also take a trip down memory lane with Hollywood legend Robert Wagner as he shares intimate stories about the iconic actresses of the golden age in his memoir, "I Loved Her in the Movies."

But that's not all! I'll be introducing you to a timeless classic that celebrates the transformative power of travel and self-discovery in Elizabeth von Arnim's "The Enchanted April." And for those who crave a thrilling espionage novel, Steve Berry's "The Atlas Maneuver" will take you on a heart-pounding journey through the complex world of Bitcoin and global financial conspiracies.

So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let's embark on an unforgettable literary adventure together. Trust me, you won't want to miss a single moment of this episode!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Links:

• "Uniform Justice" by Donna Leon: https://amzn.to/3yIJ9Mm
• "The Lost Van Gogh" by Jonathan Santlofer: https://amzn.to/4e1tVSN
• "I Loved Her in the Movies" by Robert Wagner: https://amzn.to/3KyIrDK
• "The Enchanted April" by Elizabeth von Arnim: https://amzn.to/4bLAgzZ
• "The Atlas Maneuver" by Steve Berry: https://amzn.to/458r4Do
• Views on Books: https://viewsonbooks.com
• Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DH1A2dkpaw8

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Aimie K. Runyan is a bestselling author known for her enchanting historical fiction novels set in France. Her latest book, "The Memory of Lavender and Sage," marks her exciting foray into contemporary fiction. Set in the charming fictional village of Saint-Colomb in Provence, the story follows Tempesta, a disaffected New York food critic who inherits a ramshackle farmhouse and discovers she has a magical gift for growing herbs that can influence people's emotions.

Discussed in this Episode:

• The allure of Provence as a setting for fiction and its influence on Aimie's writing
• Aimie's journey from historical to contemporary fiction and the challenges of the transition
• The power of food, herbs, and culinary traditions to bring people together and heal wounds
• Crafting authentic, atmospheric settings that transport readers to another time and place
• Insights on writing strong female characters, multi-generational storylines, and magical realism

Links:

• "The Memory of lavender and Sage" Book: https://amzn.to/3Kk6YfO
• Aimie K. Runyan Website: https://aimiekrunyan.com/
• Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xFI7iweFdCU

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Michael Jecks is a prolific author who has written over 50 books spanning multiple genres and time periods. Best known for his medieval murder mystery series featuring former Knight Templar Sir Baldwin Furnshill and Bailiff Simon Puttock, Michael's works transport readers from the Middle Ages to Tudor England to 1920s Shanghai. In his latest contemporary crime series, The Art of Murder, Michael introduces readers to the quirky yet insightful protagonist Nick Morris, a reluctant investigator and professional portrait painter specializing in cats.

Discussed in this Episode:

• The art of crafting compelling historical fiction across various eras
• Michael's journey from a brief stint in university to becoming a bestselling author
• The inspiration behind The Art of Murder series and its unconventional hero
• Balancing historical accuracy with engaging storytelling to captivate readers
• Insights on the publishing industry, promoting literacy, and the writing life

Links:

• "Landscape of Muder" Book: https://amzn.to/4dLmBun
• Michael Jecks Website: https://www.michaeljecks.co.uk/
• Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9_5bCOsZTOc

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Jane Boulware is a retired business executive and the author of "Worthy," a memoir chronicling her unconventional path from rural Iowa to the corner office at Microsoft. With a forestry degree from Iowa State University and an MBA, Jane's career journey spans roles at Kimberly-Clark, where she played a pivotal part in the Huggies vs. Pampers brand battle, and Microsoft, where she navigated the challenges of a male-dominated tech industry to become one of the few female Corporate Vice Presidents.

Discussed in this Episode:

• The importance of resilience and self-worth in overcoming personal and professional obstacles
• Lessons learned from leading teams and driving business growth in competitive markets
• The power of mentorship and taking risks to achieve career success
• Balancing family life and career aspirations as a working mother
• Insights on leadership, diversity, and fostering a positive corporate culture

Links:

• "Worthy" Book: https://amzn.to/3UHEnWt
• Jane Boulware Website: https://www.janeboulware.com/
• Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OGNBB2_t4ng

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Amy Jo Burns is the acclaimed author of the novel Mercury, a captivating story that delves into the complex dynamics of a family of roofers in the small town of Mercury, Pennsylvania. With a background in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University, Amy Jo brings a unique perspective to her storytelling, crafting richly layered characters and exploring themes of secrets, redemption, and the power of choice.

Discussed in this Episode:

• The inspiration behind Mercury and the significance of the roofing profession
• Strategies for creating a vivid sense of place and capturing small-town life
• The role of secrets and revelations in driving the narrative forward
• Lessons learned from writing a multi-generational family saga
• Insights on character development, theme, and structuring a novel across multiple timelines

Links:

• "Mercury: A Novel" Book: https://amzn.to/4a3ub0g
• Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zjFVeOxiAqg

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

D.J. Green is the acclaimed author of "No More Empty Spaces," a captivating novel that intertwines geology, family dynamics, and the rich history of Turkey. Drawing from her extensive career as a geologist, D.J. brings authenticity and depth to her storytelling, transporting readers to the remote mountains of Anatolia where an American engineer grapples with both professional challenges and personal growth. Beyond her literary pursuits, D.J. has over three decades of experience as a field geologist, working in more than 35 states and traveling extensively in Turkey.

Discussed in this Episode:

• The art of weaving complex scientific concepts into engaging fiction
• Insights into the geological wonders and cultural heritage of Turkey
• The challenges and triumphs of a woman in a male-dominated field
• Balancing family relationships and career pursuits in a foreign land
• The meticulous research process behind crafting authentic settings and characters
• Lessons learned from a successful transition from geologist to novelist

Links:

• Mount Nemrut: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Nemrut
• D.J. Green Website: https://www.geologistwriter.com/
• "No More Empty Spaces" Book: https://amzn.to/3UEvOwU
• Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bggVH0_ZAiI

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Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.