In an inspiring episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, author Timothy Craig shares the compelling story behind his young adult novel, "The Second". This emotional journey follows 17-year-old Kyle Castleman as he navigates life after a devastating car accident leaves his father in a coma.

Craig's novel was born from a deeply personal experience with his own father's hospitalization in 2017. During a critical medical moment, he discovered the profound healing power of music - a theme that becomes the heartbeat of his storytelling. The book explores Kyle's quest to wake his father using their shared musical connection, while simultaneously uncovering family secrets and confronting the mysterious departure of his mother years earlier.

A former high school English teacher, Craig brings unique insights into teenage experiences. He understands the challenges young adults face in discovering their identity, forming relationships, and finding their place in the world. His writing style draws comparisons to acclaimed young adult authors like Jay Asher and John Green, offering authentic and engaging narratives.

Interestingly, Craig's writing journey began as a dare from his own students - a challenge to create a story with a genuinely happy ending. This collaborative experience ignited his passion for storytelling and connecting with young readers.

The podcast also delves into broader topics like technology's impact on communication and the importance of encouraging reading among teenagers. Craig emphasizes that there are no "reluctant readers" - just students waiting to discover the right book.

Currently working on his second novel, "Eight", Craig continues to explore complex emotional landscapes through his writing. Readers can connect with him on his Facebook page, Timothy Craig Author, to learn more about "The Second" and his upcoming projects.

For anyone seeking a powerful, music-driven coming-of-age story, "The Second" promises an unforgettable reading experience.

In the latest episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals podcast, author Jordan Lopez opens up about his powerful "Look Down Upon" young adult trilogy, offering a raw and authentic portrayal of neurodiversity that's been missing from literature for too long. Lopez, who is himself on the autism spectrum, created protagonist Luke Ramirez as a way to challenge stereotypes and provide meaningful representation for neurodivergent teens and young adults. The series follows Luke's journey through high school and college, confronting bullying, family secrets, and personal growth in a way that feels incredibly genuine. Drawing from his own experiences, Lopez shares candid insights about growing up autistic, including challenging moments in middle school and his path to self-acceptance. He emphasizes the critical message that autism is a spectrum, and "if you've met one person with autism, you've met one person with autism" - challenging the one-size-fits-all perception many people hold. The trilogy isn't just a story about disability; it's a nuanced exploration of identity, resilience, and finding one's place in the world. Lopez's writing aims to break down barriers and provide representation that goes beyond simplistic portrayals often seen in media. Readers can find the "Look Down Upon" series on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, with Lopez actively participating in book events across Connecticut. His commitment to authentic storytelling extends beyond his books - he maintains an active online presence through his website (jordanalopez.com) and social media channels. For anyone seeking a compelling YA series that offers genuine insight into the neurodivergent experience, Lopez's trilogy promises to be a groundbreaking read that challenges perceptions and celebrates individual differences. Whether you're a fan of young adult literature, interested in diverse storytelling, or want to understand autism from a personal perspective, this podcast episode and Lopez's books offer a powerful, enlightening journey.

In this captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with Amanda Halpin, a special education teacher and debut children's book author who's bringing a splash of color to the literary world with her enchanting picture book, "Onyx Pearl."
Halpin's journey is as vibrant as her storytelling. Inspired by a student on the autism spectrum and her lifelong passion for writing, she crafted a unique tale about a character living in a black-and-white world who discovers the magic of color through nature. The book, aimed at children aged 8-10, is a poetic exploration of discovery, imagination, and the transformative power of the natural world.
As a special education teacher in Middletown, Connecticut, Halpin brings a unique perspective to storytelling. She candidly discusses the challenges of modern education, from technology's impact on student attention to the difficulties of teaching during the pandemic. Her insights reveal a deep commitment to engaging children and encouraging their creativity.
The podcast doesn't just explore "Onyx Pearl" - it delves into Halpin's broader creative vision. She hints at future adventures for her protagonist and shares her plans for a poetry book for adults, showcasing her versatility as a writer.
Listeners will be charmed by Halpin's warm storytelling, her dedication to education, and her passion for inspiring young minds. Whether you're a parent, educator, or book lover, this episode offers a delightful glimpse into the creative process of a promising new author.
Want to explore "Onyx Pearl"? You can find the book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Follow Amanda Halpin's writing journey on her Facebook page, "Amanda Halpin Writes," and stay tuned for her upcoming website.
Don't miss this heartwarming conversation that celebrates creativity, education, and the magic of storytelling!

In this captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with Sarah P. Blanchard, a dynamic author who proves that great storytelling knows no age limit. At 73, Blanchard is making waves in the literary world with her gripping psychological suspense novel, "Grab Town."
The story behind the book is as intriguing as its plot. Inspired by a real-life location in North Carolina, "Grab Town" weaves a complex narrative spanning two timelines. The novel follows twin sisters who discover an unfinished manuscript written by their mother's best friend, uncovering a decades-old cold case murder that challenges everything they thought they knew about their family.
Blanchard's writing journey is a testament to persistence and passion. With a background as diverse as a radio news announcer, volunteer firefighter, and college professor, she brings a rich tapestry of experiences to her writing. Her approach to storytelling is both meticulous and compassionate, with a focus on protecting vulnerable individuals and shedding light on important social issues like human trafficking.
The author shares valuable insights into the writing process, emphasizing the importance of writing communities, accepting constructive criticism, and the art of "rehoming" rather than killing your literary darlings. Her advice resonates with aspiring writers: develop a thick skin, embrace feedback, and never stop learning.
"Grab Town" is more than just a mystery novel. It's a carefully crafted exploration of family secrets, generational trauma, and the power of uncovering hidden truths. Available for pre-order on Amazon and set to be released in multiple formats, the book promises to be a must-read for fans of psychological suspense.
Whether you're a book lover, aspiring writer, or simply enjoy a compelling story, this podcast episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative mind of Sarah P. Blanchard and the intricate world of "Grab Town."

In this captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with author Paul Sargia to explore the fascinating journey behind his latest thriller, "The Catch." Set in the vibrant landscape of 1978 New York and New Jersey, this novel is more than just a page-turning adventure—it's a profound exploration of personal transformation.
Sargia's writing journey is anything but conventional. A former physical education major, he discovered his passion for storytelling through an unexpected path of self-discovery. Inspired by a philosophical mentor, Sargia crafted a narrative that goes beyond traditional thriller boundaries, weaving together elements of mystery, romance, and personal growth.
"The Catch" follows protagonist Johnny, a charismatic marina owner who feels inexplicably empty despite his seemingly perfect life. Through encounters with wise characters and a mysterious family heirloom, Johnny embarks on a transformative journey that mirrors Sargia's own personal evolution.
What makes Sargia's approach unique is his commitment to inspiring readers. Each story he creates aims to lift the human spirit, challenging readers to look beyond surface-level experiences and explore deeper meanings of purpose and connection.
The podcast delves into Sargia's writing process, revealing how he developed the story during long commutes and through multiple iterations—from initial beach-side notes to a screenplay and finally a full novel. His method of writing "by the seat of his pants" demonstrates the organic nature of storytelling.
For aspiring writers and thriller enthusiasts, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the creative process of an author who believes in the power of narrative to spark personal change.
Listeners can find more about Paul Sargia and "The Catch" at PaulSargia.com and explore his screenwriting portfolio on FilmFreeway.
Don't miss this inspiring conversation that proves great stories are about more than just plot—they're about the human experience.

In a captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, author Neil P Randle takes listeners on a thrilling journey through his acclaimed "Spies at All Times" trilogy, culminating in the release of "Spies on Borrowed Time." Host Jed Doherty delves deep into Randale's unique approach to spy fiction, which masterfully intertwines historical events with gripping narrative.
Randale, collaborating with co-author Jeff Netting, has created a series that goes beyond traditional spy thrillers. The books chronicle pivotal moments in recent history, including the fall of the Berlin Wall, Nelson Mandela's rise to power, and the tumultuous aftermath of the Soviet Union's collapse. Each novel serves as both an exciting espionage adventure and an educational exploration of complex global events.
The latest installment, set in the mid-1990s, offers a nuanced look at post-Soviet Russia, capturing the social and political tensions of the era. Randale's firsthand experiences living and working in countries like Germany, South Africa, and Russia lend authenticity to the narrative, providing readers with an intimate perspective on historical transformations.
What sets Randale's work apart is his commitment to historical accuracy and storytelling. The books appeal to a wide range of readers, from spy fiction enthusiasts to history buffs and younger readers eager to understand the recent past. By blending meticulously researched historical details with compelling character arcs, Randale has created a series that educates as much as it entertains.
Looking forward, Randale teased an upcoming project exploring World War II art theft and hidden underground cities, promising another historically rich adventure. All proceeds from the book series are donated to cancer research, adding a philanthropic dimension to Randale's literary endeavors.
Listeners can find the "Spies at All Times" series on Amazon, where Neil P. Randale's books await readers seeking an immersive journey through recent world history.

In this delightful episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with local author and illustrator Heather Mezzacappa to explore her enchanting new middle-grade novel, "Fiona's Friends to the Rescue."
Mezzacappa's creative journey began in her own backyard, where a family of skunks inspired her latest book. The story follows Fiona, a young skunk, and her diverse group of animal friends - a squirrel, a crow, and a frog - as they navigate friendship, acceptance, and a daring rescue mission.
A lifelong artist, Mezzacappa has always been passionate about creativity. From her early days of drawing and crafting to her current work as an author and illustrator, she has embraced a unique, organic approach to storytelling. Her background in fine art and sculpture has significantly influenced her illustration style, which she describes as playful and whimsical.
What sets Mezzacappa apart is her ability to weave important life lessons into her narratives without feeling preachy. "Fiona's Friends to the Rescue" subtly explores themes of acceptance, friendship, and understanding differences - messages that resonate with both children and adults.
Mezzacappa's creative process is as interesting as her stories. She loves building characters and narratives organically, often starting with a visual concept and letting her imagination guide her. Her enthusiasm for art and storytelling shines through, making her work particularly appealing to children.
Fans of Mezzacappa can find her books on Amazon, Ingram Spark, and through her Instagram account @heathermezzacappa. Whether you're a parent looking for a heartwarming children's book, an art enthusiast, or simply love supporting local Connecticut authors, Heather Mezzacappa's work is sure to captivate and inspire.
Don't miss this charming exploration of creativity, friendship, and the magic of storytelling!

Discover "Happy Hour": A Groundbreaking Menopause Romance Novel by Elissa Bass
In an enlightening episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals podcast, author Elissa Bass shares the inspiring story behind her innovative novel "Happy Hour" - a unique reverse age gap romance set on Cape Cod during the off-season.
Bass, a 62-year-old former journalist, drew inspiration from her personal 11-year menopause journey to create a compelling narrative that challenges societal expectations. The novel follows KK, a 55-year-old protagonist navigating life's complexities after a marriage breakdown, who unexpectedly finds love with a younger partner.
The book explores themes of unexpected romance, social media judgment, and personal resilience. When the main characters accidentally go viral on TikTok, their relationship faces intense public scrutiny, mirroring contemporary social dynamics. Bass intentionally crafted a story that highlights the challenges faced by older women in relationships, creating what she believes to be the first "menopause romance" genre.
Her journalistic background significantly influenced her novel-writing approach, particularly in crafting realistic dialogue. Bass's decades of interviewing experience helped her create authentic characters and narrative structures that resonate deeply with readers.
The novel has already touched numerous readers' lives, with one particularly moving story involving a reader sharing the book with a friend undergoing chemotherapy. Bass was deeply moved by how her writing provided comfort and connection during challenging times.
Readers can find "Happy Hour" through various platforms, with Bass encouraging support for independent bookstores. A sequel, "Please Wait to Cross," focusing on KK's older sister, is set to be released in mid-fall.