Dana McNeely, a passionate writer of biblical fiction, invites readers into a world where ancient Bible stories come alive with adventure, danger, and romance. Despite never visiting the Holy Land personally, she relies on a vast collection of books and videos to authentically bring ancient tales to life. Whether you’re a long-time fan of biblical fiction or new to the genre, Dana McNeely invites you to deepen your faith through the power of storytelling.

KyLee and Dana discuss how Dana’s Arizona home, with its varied landscapes and desert climate, parallels the vivid settings of her novels. This real-world inspiration bridges the gap between past and present, enriching her storytelling with grounded authenticity.

Family traditions, particularly during Christmas, hold a special place in Dana’s heart. She shares how her family gathers to celebrate in grand style, complete with elaborate decorations and nativity scenes collected over the years. These cherished moments with family are a theme reflected in her stories, as well.

Dana’s journey into biblical fiction was paved with other genres that just didn’t quite captivate her interest. Her spiritual practices—spending quiet time with the Bible—sparked the inspiration for her writing. The story of the prophet Elijah bringing the widow’s son back to life captivated her imagination, laying the foundation for her debut novel. Her writing endeavors aim not only to entertain but also to inspire readers to explore the Bible themselves, overcoming misconceptions and diving into the source material with renewed curiosity.

Dana’s first three books, including Mantle which is featured today, have been drawn from Old Testament stories. For her next project, she steps into the New Testament to tell the story of Anna, the prophetess. Excited to bring to life an older woman’s perspective, Dana delves into a narrative enriched by Anna’s experiences, wisdom, and the unique relationships she forms in the temple.

Connect with Dana McNeely at her website and on Facebook, Instagram, Goodreads, and BookBub. Sign up for her newsletter to receive a free novella, “The Eyes of the Lord,” a prequel that offers more depth to her beloved series.

In the aftermath of Elijah’s fiery ascension, the mantle of prophecy rests heavily on Elisha’s shoulders. Called to shepherd Israel through turbulent times, he faces challenges from rulers, prophets, and even the people closest to him.

Jaedon, who has shadowed Elisha since boyhood, is torn between loyalty to the prophet and his deepening desire to right a grievous wrong. As the young vintner struggles to understand why Yahweh allowed his family’s murders, he considers a step toward revenge that will jeopardize his relationship with the man he regards as an elder brother.

Gehazi, whose faith sometimes flickers, is tempted by the promise of wealth and power. His actions threaten to tear him away from the very blessings he sought to protect.

Meanwhile, Ziva, an innocent girl in the sleepy settlement of Gischala, is swept into a world filled with uncertainty and danger. With unimaginable loss behind her, she struggles to look beyond her grief to find God’s will. It is then she realizes only one path remains.

Faith. Redemption. The cost of leadership. Will the next generation rise to the challenge and uphold the legacy of Elijah, or will they falter under the weight of the mantle?

Of Love and Treason by Jamie Ogle, reviewed by Angela Bell

Listen to the full episode A Bookchat about Of Love and Treason with Jamie Ogle

You can listen to Jane’s chat about her book Beneath the Bending Sky from when she was on the show in 2022 by following this link.

Jane Kirkpatrick, a New York Times and CBA best-selling author, graced the Historical Bookworm Show with her engaging presence. With over 40 successful books under her belt, including Beneath the Bending Skies and A Sweetness to the Soul, Jane captures the essence of historical fiction, earning prestigious awards such as the Western Heritage Center’s Wrangler Award and the Will Rogers Gold Medallion.

Jane recently returned to the Pacific Northwest, settling into familiar surroundings with her husband Jerry, and their dog Rupert. Despite the challenges of being a caregiver and juggling multiple responsibilities, Jane finds solace in her nature walks and mindfulness exercises—practices that ground her amidst life’s complexities.

Jane’s career as a writer began during her 17-year tenure at the Warm Springs Indian Reservation in Oregon. Surrounded by the vibrant tapestry of Native American storytelling, she developed a sensitivity to cultural authenticity, an element she weaves into her narratives with respect and precision. Her work aims to foster understanding and appreciation for cultural diversity.

The interview delved into Jane’s writing process and inspiration for her latest book, Across the Crying Sands. Inspired by the true tale of Mary Edwards Gretzky, the story follows a courageous woman’s journey as the first female mail carrier in rugged Oregon. Jane’s exploration of historical settings serves not just as background but as living, breathing elements that enrich the narrative.

 A Testament to Friendship and Faith

A standout in Jane’s storytelling is her connection with readers, exemplified by Susie—a devoted reader who played a pivotal role in Jane’s discovery of Mary’s story. This narrative journey highlights the power of friendship and the serendipitous paths stories take to manifest in a writer’s imagination.

The interview also highlights Jane’s exciting venture into screenwriting, adapting one of her beloved novels into a screenplay. With passion and dedication, Jane continually expands her storytelling capabilities, bringing historical tales to life in fresh, engaging mediums.

For readers eager to learn more about Jane and her work, she offers a monthly newsletter, “Story Sparks,” which provides insights into her writing world and upcoming projects. Signing up not only gives readers a peek into her creative process but also enrolls them in a special giveaway in celebration of her new book’s release.

Discover more about Jane Kirkpatrick’s literary journey on her blog and social media channels, where she regularly shares updates and reflections. As she writes, her stories remind us of the resilience and courage inherent in people’s lives—a timeless testament to the human spirit.

Connect with Jane on her website, through her newsletter, and on Facebook, Instagram, Goodreads, BookBub, and Amazon.

Enthralling and exquisitely crafted, “All My Secrets” by Lynn Austin is Christian Fiction at its finest.

In this rich historical novel, Austin blends the earthy flavor of family secrets long buried, strong notes of Biblical truth, the floral perfume of Gilded Age high society, and sweetens it all with tender themes of love and legacy.

While each member of the multigenerational cast were nuanced and endearing in their own way, the character of Junietta Stanhope was a stand out. Readers who are drawn to matriarchal figures, full of wit and wisdom, will treasure Mimi Juni in their hearts long after her poignant story’s been told.

If you love period dramas, brimming with piping hot tea, you’ll savor every sip of All My Secrets! 

~ Angela Bell, author of A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure

THE AUTHOR

For many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband’s work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she’d earned at Hope College and Southern Connecticut State University to work as a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba. It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority. Along with reading, two of Lynn’s lifelong passions are history and archaeology. 

Read more about Lynn at her website. (https://lynnaustin.org/)

The Historical Bookworm Show is delighted to once again welcome Laura Frantz for a chat about her inspiration to write historical fiction, a couple marriage tips, her writing process, and of course, her latest release, The Indigo Heiress. A proud mother to an American soldier and a career firefighter, she has authored seventeen novels to date, each intricately weaving historical research and compelling character journeys.

The Indigo Heiress centers around the growth of the plant we still use today to dye one of our most common articles of clothing – blue jeans. Learn how indigo and tobacco tied Colonial Virginia to the economy of Scotland, and hear how Laura’s fascination with textiles started with her grandmother.

From a young age, Laura was captivated by historical figures and their stories, which fueled her journey as a writer. Her childhood excitement for historical biographies and the scarcity of titles led her to write her own stories at the age of seven. This passion for history shapes her intention to keep history alive through her books, and she loves educating readers (and herself) through the entertainment of a historical novel.

Laura’s characters often mirror the complexities of their era—strong women navigating their roles within society’s constraints. As she discusses her main character, Juliet Catesby, Laura emphasizes the strength drawn from her convictions, linking her to historical figures like Eliza Lucas Pinney. Juliet’s journey through her role in her arranged marriage with Leith Buchanan adds a rich layer to the narrative, along with Juliet’s relationship with her younger sister Loveday (who also gets a happily ever after).

In 1774, Juliet Catesby lives with her father and sister at Royal Vale, the James River plantation founded by her Virginia family over a century before. Indigo cultivation is her foremost concern, though its export tethers her family to the powerful Buchanan clan of Glasgow, Scotland. When the heir of the Buchanan firm arrives on their shores, Juliet discovers that her father has secretly arranged for one of his daughters to marry the Scot as a means of canceling the family’s debt. Confident it will be her younger, lovelier sister, Juliet is appalled when Leith Buchanan selects her instead.

Despite her initial refusal of him, an ensuing altercation forces Juliet to flee Virginia. Agreeing to marry, she sails with Leith to Scotland, hopeful of a better match for her sister, who accompanies her. But once in Glasgow and faced with the contentious, powerful Buchanan clan, she realizes that the man who saved her from financial ruin and scandal is the very one she must now save in return.

Connect with Laura Frantz through her newsletter, Facebook, Instagram, X, Goodreads, and Pinterest.

Man of Shadow and Mist is an eerie blend that combines strong notes of anglophile with the musty aroma of bibliophile and deepens its smokey richness with the distinct gloom of gothic literature.

An ode to Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” the novel features a brooding hero, a bookish heroine, and brilliant atmospheric prose that entrance the imagination. Michelle Griep is a true master of her craft, penning a story that deftly balances poignant characterization with page-turning plot. Fans of Jaime Jo Wright will love this haunting tale’s juxtaposition of shadow and light, despair and hope.

If “Beauty and the Beast” is your favorite fairy tale, Man of Shadow and Mist is sure to be your cup of tea!

~ Angela Bell, author of A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure

THE AUTHOR

Michelle Griep has been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayola. She is a Christy Award-winning author of historical romances that both intrigue and evoke a smile. She’s an anglophile at heart, and you’ll most often find her partaking of a proper cream tea while scheming up her next novel.

Read more about Michelle at her website. (www.MichelleGriep.com)

This episode features a discussion with four authors from Wild Heart Books, including KyLee Woodley, Lorri Dudley, Megan Soja, and Sherry Shindelar.

Meet Authors from Wild Heart Books

In a delightful turn of events on the Historical Bookworm Show, we were joined by three talented authors along with our own KyLee Woodley to discuss four books from Wild Heart Books. This publishing house is renowned for its historical romance novels set before 1900, intricately woven with Christian themes. The show began with intros and some fun icebreaker questions, giving us a glimpse into the authors’ backgrounds and inspirations.

Meet Megan Soja

Megan Soja, a resident of western New York, shares her life with her husband of 17 years and their two daughters. An avid reader since childhood, she confesses to being caught with a book more often than a duster. Her passion for Christian romance and fiction reflects in her writing, and her latest work is part of the “Harbor of Spies” series, set during the American Revolution. During the interview, Megan shared insights on how personal experiences, like her daughter’s heart surgery in Boston, inspired her latest series. Megan encourages readers to find God’s purpose in life’s challenges, a message profoundly resonating with her own life narrative.

Introducing Sherry Shindelar

Sherry Shindelar hails originally from Tennessee but now lives in Minnesota with her family. She has a rich storytelling heritage, beginning in her childhood with tales of Captain Kirk. Her latest release, “Texas Divided” is set in the turbulent times of the Civil War, featuring a soldier with a troubled past and a woman he must prove himself to. Sherry advises aspiring writers to persevere through challenges, trusting that God will open doors at the right time. Her story is one of resilience and passion for storytelling—a reminder never to give up on dreams.

Lorri Dudley‘s Journey

Lorri Dudley, a writer of Regency Romance for Wild Heart Books, celebrates her 25th wedding anniversary alongside launching her 10th book, “Relinquishing the Agent”. Her story blends thrilling elements of espionage with the charm of Regency-era England. Lorri describes writing as a spiritual journey that brings her closer to God. Her current work captures the essence of intrinsic human value, showcasing God’s love for all, no matter how society perceives them.

Our Very Own KyLee Woodley

KyLee Woodley, the cheerful romantic, writes with a touch of adventure set against historical backdrops. Residing in Waco, Texas, her tales are interwoven with heartwarming themes of love and redemption. Her latest work “The Bounty Hunter’s Surrender” continues from a minor character in her previous novel, bringing to life a narrative of love and uncovering secrets. KyLee emphasizes the significance of loving the unlovely as a reflection of true devotion to God.

A Fun Twist: If You Could Time Travel…

During the interview, the authors shared where and when they would journey if given the chance. Megan fancied mingling with legendary authors C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, while Sherry aspired to converse with Charlotte Brontë. Lorri expressed intrigue in the Regency era, especially figures like Hannah More, who shaped education and societal norms. KyLee admired Emma Ray, a historical missionary who served on the streets of Seattle at the turn of the century.

From Books to Insights

The authors also shared their current reads, offering recommendations like Laura Frantz’s The Indigo Heiress and Jamie Ogle’s intriguing works, showing how acclaimed stories inspire their own writings.

Connect and Explore Further

Discover more about the authors’ latest releases, sign up for exclusive short stories, and engage with rich historical narratives that promise to inspire and entertain. Stay tuned for more exciting interviews on the Historical Bookworm Show!

With her passion for life, history, and story, Liz Tolsma is the author of several novels ranging from World War II to Amish fiction. While she thought she’d write one book and be done, her debut novel was a finalist for two awards. Now she’s a full-time author and editor, and she has never looked back. She joins us today to share about topics close to her heart, and to introduce her latest release, When the Sky Burned.

Liz Tolzma’s writing journey began much like other authors—at a young age with a vivid imagination and an innate knack for storytelling. Dubbed “Sarah Bernhardt” by her parents due to her flair for drama, Liz was encouraged by a supportive fifth-grade teacher who instilled the dream of becoming a published author.

A big passion for Liz centers around the theme of international adoption. She and her husband have welcomed three children into their family from different corners of the world, embedding rich experiences and diverse cultures into their lives. Liz speaks passionately about how adoption mirrors God’s unconditional love and adoption of us, reflecting how it has shaped her as both a mother and a writer.

“When the Sky Burned,” Liz’s latest novel, captures the essence of historical fiction by intertwining real events with an inspiring story. Set against the backdrop of the lesser-known Peshtigo Fire of 1871, Liz carefully balances historical accuracy with the fictional journeys of her characters. Mariah Randolph embodies resilience as she transitions from an artist to a survivor of blindness. Inspired by real stories of blind painters, Liz weaves a narrative that highlights resilience, transformation, and justice.

Continuing with her theme of stories based on real-life events, Liz is excited to be writing a fictionalized version of a reader’s family history from World War II. Readers can connect with her through her website, newsletter, GoodReads, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, X, and her own podcast.

Enjoy a series of 6 exciting novels featuring historic disasters that transformed landscapes and multiple lives. Whether by nature or by man, these disasters changed history and were a day to be remembered.

Promising painter Mariah Randolph longs to have her canvases displayed in the world’s best museums, and Hollis Stanford, the heir of a railroad tycoon, is her ticket to success. The railroad’s bookkeeper, Jay Franklin, discovers discrepancies and is convinced that Hollis is stealing from the company. But any proof of his dirty dealings go up in smoke when fire utterly destroys the town of Peshtigo, Wisconsin, October 8, 1871.

The fire leaves Mariah blind, but Jay befriends her and even helps her to start painting again. But a trip to Chicago to return Hollis’s daughter to him could put both Mariah and Jay in more danger than even the fire that devastated the town and their lives.

Other Historical Bookworm episodes with Liz Tolsma include a Pinch of the Past and a Bookchat about A Picture of Hope

Today’s bookworm review is brought to you by author Angela Bell

Today’s Bookworm Review is bought to you by Angela Bell. “The Bounty Hunter’s Surrender solidifies  KyLee Woodley as a veritable sharpshooter of a storyteller!

In her second Outlaw Hearts novel, Woodley skillfully corrals the tension of a showdown at high noon, complex characters, fastidious historical research, and a mystery with all the twists of a gnarled tumbleweed into a tale sure to whisk readers away on a wild ride into a hope-filled sunset.

If you’re drawn to the rugged romance of the old west, consider The Bounty Hunter’s Surrender your next most wanted read!”

~ Angela Bell, author of A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure

In this captivating interview on the Historical Bookworm Show, hosts KyLee and Darcy delve into the remarkable career of Lauraine Snelling, an award-winning and bestselling author known for her historical novels that vividly bring past eras to life.

An Author’s Dream

Lauraine Snelling began her writing journey with Tragedy on the Toutle her first young adult novel, published in 1982. Since then, she has authored over 140 books, with more than five million copies in print. Living her lifelong dream, she has crafted novels deeply rooted in historical narratives, including her beloved Red River series, which spans an astonishing 22 books.

Characters That Resonate

During the interview, Darcy asked Lauraine which of her historical novels she would step into for a day. Lauraine shared her deep connection with the Red River series, describing how vividly she envisions scenarios and adventures within her stories. More than historical details, her books resonate with emotional depth, captivating readers with realistic characters who embody personal and historical truths.

One particularly memorable moment was when Lauraine imagined hosting a dinner party for her characters Ingeborg, Amalia, and Hawkin. Each character, infused with elements of her life experiences and family, holds a special place in her heart, highlighting the personal connection she shares with her creations.

The Power of Writing and Community

Lauraine attributes her success to God’s good will working in her life. She also discussed widowhood—a subject she has come to know deeply after personal loss—expressing gratitude for her community of readers, who engage with her on Facebook. Through her own journey with grief, Lauraine has found ways to support others, offering wisdom and empathy both in her life and her novels.

Next Steps and Future Reads

Currently working on the second book in her latest series, Lauraine and her co-writer, Kiersti Giron, are already creatively mapping out the third and fourth installments. Her ability to adapt and find inspiration through life’s changes serves as a testament to her enduring passion for storytelling.

Stay tuned for Lauraine Snelling’s next heartwarming tale—you’re sure to be transported to another time, surrounded by characters who feel as if they’ve stepped right off the page.

Award-winning and bestselling author Lauraine Snelling began living her dream to be a writer with her first published book for young adult readers, Tragedy on the Toutle, in 1982. She has since continued writing more horse books for young girls, adding historical and contemporary fiction and nonfiction for adults and young readers to her repertoire. All total, she has over one hundred and forty books published with more than 4.5 million copies in print.

As a sought-after speaker, Lauraine encourages others to find their gifts and live their lives with humor and joy. Her readers often clamor for more books, and Lauraine would like to comply … if only her paintbrushes and fragrant flowers didn’t call quite so loudly.

Lauraine has two grown sons and a daughter and husband in Heaven. She lives in the Tehachapi Mountains with Lapcat, and “The Girls” (three golden hens).

During her voyage on a ship to America, Norwegian immigrant Amalia Gunderson makes a solemn promise to a dying mother to watch over her five-year-old daughter, Ruth. Together, Amalia and Ruth trek to Iowa to claim the farm and former boardinghouse that Ruth has inherited, despite opposition from a difficult cousin. Struggling with an empty house and scarce resources, Amalia resolves to return the boardinghouse to its former purpose, aided by the kindness of strangers and the resilient spirit of her young charge.

As Amalia and Ruth endeavor to make ends meet, tensions rise due to a trail of orphans showing up on their doorstep. Meanwhile, Absalom Karlsson–the magistrate’s son–offers legal assistance and helps them advocate for justice. With each challenge they face, Amalia and Ruth find hope in believing that with faith and determination they can overcome even the most daunting of trials.

In this heartwarming series starter, bestselling author Lauraine Snelling weaves together a delightful story of new beginnings.

Connect with Lauraine through her website, newsletter, Facebook, X, Instagram, BookBub, Amazon, and GoodReads.

Join Darcy and KyLee in welcoming Joanna Davidson Politano back to The Historical Bookworm Show! You can listen to previous episodes featuring Joanna or her work The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple, The Lost Melody, A Midnight Dance, and A Midnight Dance.

In this episode of The Historical Bookworm Show, Joanna Davidson Politano discusses her latest Edwardian-era novel, ‘The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House. Known for her captivating blend of mystery, romance, and gothic elements, Politano delves into the inspirations behind her newest work. She shares how a unique Edwardian house, filled with unfinished inventions, influenced the book’s setting and characters.

The conversation also explores her writing process—balancing organic storytelling with spiritual themes—and the dynamic relationships between the novel’s lead characters. Joanna offers a tantalizing hint about an upcoming Cornwall-based series, promising more immersive and engaging tales to come.

Joanna Davidson Politano’s gripping novels have been captivating readers for years with their fascinating characters, mysterious settings, pitch-perfect romance, and plenty of Gothic flair. Now she returns with her newest offering, The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House. Set in the Edwardian era, this book transports readers to an isolated island estate for a tale of unexpected inheritance and family rivalry where no one is as they seem.

The new century is still young when clockmaker Sydney Forrester finds that she is the heiress of Blakely House, an estate off the coast of Northumberland. To say she is surprised is an understatement, considering the estate was owned by an estranged uncle whom she never met. Blakely House comes with an array of peculiar inventions, but it also comes with two nephews determined to oust Sydney from her newfound property. With the help of an unlikely ally, Sydney works to uncover the secrets of the estate—including who murdered its late owner. But when a mysterious man washes ashore with a stunning surprise, Sydney must prove she has inherited the late master’s brilliance as well as his property. 

Joanna’s books: Lady Jayne Disappears, A Rumored Fortune, Finding Lady Enderly, The Love Note, A Midnight Dance, and The Lost Melody

Connect with  Joanna Davidson Politano: Newsletter, Baker Book House, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram.

Selah Award finalist and winner of the 2024 Caleb Award, Jennifer Mistmorgan is a must-read author of WWII historical romance. She writes imperfect characters “who grapple with God’s grace and love in a world at war,” swoony romance, and adventure sure to keep you turning pages and leave you with new friends by the last chapter.

Jennifer Mistmorgan is a native of Australia, and shares her perspective of why she loves her home in beautiful Canberra. While her stories take place all over the world, her first novel featured a hero from her homeland.

Jennifer loves bringing the past to life not only in stories but also in food. A collector of vintage recipe books and kitchen gadgets, she shares about her adventures recreating historical recipes for research and enjoyment.

Mistmorgan’s latest release, These Long Shadows, takes readers to London in 1945 – after the war in Europe has ended – offering readers a chance to explore the realities of living with the aftermath of such a brutal conflict.

Two years before, we meet Jonty Ables when he proposes to Katie Baines for the sake of her unborn baby. Now Jonty is back from the war, ready to do whatever it takes to be a good husband for his wife, but Katie isn’t sure her heart has room for him. With personal experience lending authenticity, Mistmorgan weaves a moving story of betrayal, loss, and grief slowly climbing its way to hope and new life. With sweet romance, a deep current of faith, and a touch of intrigue with a missing person case, these characters – and readers – are in for the journey of a lifetime.

How do they rebuild a marriage that wasn’t real in the first place?

London, 1945: Two years ago, Jonty Ables married Katie Baines to save her and her unborn baby from shame. But now the war is all but over, the baby is gone and they must work out where their shaky marriage fits into lives irrevocably changed by war. 

Clinging to the memory of a time before all happiness evaporated, Katie works hard as a seamstress. At night she comes home to a tiny terrace on a bomb-scarred street, crammed with her extended family and their problems. Years of estrangement sit between her and her recently demobilized husband. She’s not even sure she loves him, so why is she so crushed that he calls out another woman’s name in his sleep? 

Jonty is determined to honor the vows he made no matter how many ghosts now plague him, but with such separate lives his wife is more of a stranger than ever. When Katie’s friend goes missing, Jonty seizes the opportunity to help her find him just so they have a reason to talk. But the war casts long shadows over their efforts, and fighting for their future might just be the hardest battle of them all.

Connect with Jennifer Mistmorgan: Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Amazon, Bookbub, Goodreads, My Vintage Heart project.

In our latest chat on the Historical Bookworm Show, bestselling and Christy-award winning author Sarah Sundin returns to share about her newest release, Midnight on the Scottish Shore. Known for her engrossing World War II novels, Sarah delves into not just the historical intricacies woven throughout her story but also the deeply threaded spiritual and personal themes.

Sarah has long been captivated by history, beginning with the Civil War, Revolutionary War, and the settling of the American prairie as a young reader. But she’s found her writing home in the rich tapestry of World War II novels. With more than fifteen books set in the time period, she has years of research that create authenticity in her settings, but she’s always exploring new fronts of the war. Her latest book marks her first venture fully set in Scotland.

Midnight on the Scottish Shore introduces readers to Cilla van der Zee, a Dutch Resistance member forced into the role of a double agent for the British in Scotland. Joining her is Lieutenant Lachlan Mackinsey, a Scottish naval officer faced with the moral dilemma of trusting a woman who arrives as an enemy.

Through the characters of Cilla and Lachlan, Sundin explores what it means to be truly free. For Cilla, freedom is an absence of constraints, while Lachlan views safety within rules as the ultimate freedom. Throughout their journey, both characters learn profound lessons about what true freedom means, exposing the illusion of their initial beliefs.

The intricate operations of British and German espionage during World War II, the naval base at Scapa Flow, and the subtle influence of nationalist movements provide a fertile backdrop for her story.

As Sarah wraps up her current projects, her upcoming novel will shift focus to the Channel Islands — the only part of British territory occupied by Nazis during the war. This new setting promises to provide readers with another gripping espionage story featuring the brother of Cilla van der Zee. For those eager to explore more, visit her at sarahsundin.com where you can sign up for her newsletter and receive a collection of her articles, “Make It Do – the U.S. Homefront in WWII.”

Connect with Sarah Sundin: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Pinterest, Goodreads, X, Bookbub, and Instagram.

To escape the Nazis, she must become a spy. To save the Allied cause, must he betray his heart?

The only way Cilla van der Zee can survive the German occupation of the Netherlands is to do the unthinkable–become a spy for the Nazis in Britain. She soothes her conscience with a plan to abandon her mission and instead aid the Allies. Her scheme is thwarted when naval officer Lt. Lachlan Mackenzie finds her along the Scottish shore and turns her in to be executed.

But perhaps she is more useful alive than dead. British intelligence sends her to Scotland to radio misleading messages to Germany, messages about the naval base at Scapa Flow to be crafted by Lachlan. At the station in the lighthouse at Dunnet Head, Lachlan and Cilla must work together if the war is to be won. But how can he trust a woman who arrived on his shores as a tool of the enemy–a woman certain to betray both him and the Allied cause?

Master of World War II fiction Sarah Sundin takes you to the wild Scottish seaside, where danger lurks under the surface of the water–and in the depths of the human heart–for a WWII tale you won’t soon forget.

In today’s exciting spotlight on the Historical Bookworm Show, we welcome back Crystal Caudill, a gifted author known for her signature “Dangerously Good Historical Romance.” With impressive accolades to her name, including her 2023 Carole Award finalist debut novel, “Counterfeit Love,” and her Christie Award-winning novella “Star of Wonder,” Crystal’s works have enchanted readers with their unique blend of history, romance, and suspense.

Despite declaring herself not much of a romantic, Crystal has a compelling take on writing romance. Her stories are a beautiful reflection of relationships blossoming in the face of danger and adversity, drawing parallels to divine love. She shares, “I find romance to be a beautiful reflection of God’s love for us. He pursues us. He fights for us. He loves us with reckless abandon.” This deep-rooted belief makes her romance stand out — focused more on growth and partnership than simple gestures of affection.

Beyond writing, Crystal manages a busy personal life as a mother and caregiver. She candidly acknowledges that balance is an illusion, admitting that life’s demands fluctuate and necessitate giving priority to different roles at different times. Her reliance on prayer and faith keeps her grounded and hopeful that, through God’s guidance, she can meet her deadlines and tell stories that inspire.

The wellspring of Crystal’s creativity is filled with diverse influences. She shares that inspiration comes through a variety of sources, such as art exhibits, music, and interacting with the works of authors she admires. Her commitment to enriching her writing style by learning from others resonates with many who find rejuvenation through similar creative exploration.

In her upcoming release, Written in Secret, Crystal takes us to 19th-century Cincinnati, where a mysterious narrative unfolds in the midst of corruption and intrigue. The story’s heroine, Lydia Pelton, uses her talent as a crime novelist under the pseudonym E.A. Dupin to fight the societal wrongs she witnesses, but finds fiction bleeding into reality when a serial killer mimics her literary detective.

This novel promises a thrilling ride with Officer Abraham Hall joining Lydia in a quest to solve the murders haunting Cincinnati, despite initial misgivings. Their collaboration promises to uncover not just crime, but the depth of their own hearts in what is sure to be an enthralling tale of mystery and romance.

Our conversation with Crystal also unveils exciting details about her future projects. Book two of her Art of Love and Danger series delves into the world of music with opera singers and composers amidst whirlwind plots filled with intrigue. Meanwhile, book three promises to delve into pottery, painting, and women’s rights within a narrative of sabotage.

For fans eager to dive deeper into Crystal’s works, she invites you to visit her website at crystalcaudill.com. By signing up for her newsletter, you can receive a free copy of Counterfeit Truth, a novella prequel to her first series, Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age.

Connect with  Crystal Caudill: Newsletter, Amazon, Facebook, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Instagram.