Episodes

  • Exploring Biblical Legends: Dana McNeely’s Journey through Fiction
    Jul 20 2025
    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. Discovering Inspiration in for Authentic Settings 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. Beyond the Writing Office 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. The Journey to Biblical Fiction 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. A Shift to the New Testament 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? Bookworm Review 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
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Navigating New Stories: A Conversation with Jane Kirkpatrick
    Jun 14 2025
    Jane Kirkpatrick’s storytelling is a captivating blend of history, resilience, and faith. A bestselling author with over 40 books to her name, Jane recently joined the *Historical Bookworm Show* to discuss her writing journey and latest novel, *Across the Crying Sands.* From her early influences at the Warm Springs Indian Reservation to her deep commitment to cultural authenticity, Jane’s work offers readers rich narratives that honor the past while inspiring the present. As she settles back into life in the Pacific Northwest, Jane continues to expand her creative endeavors—now venturing into screenwriting. Her dedication to storytelling, whether on the page or the screen, remains a testament to the enduring power of history, friendship, and faith. Want to dive deeper into Jane’s world? Visit [jkbooks.com](https://jkbooks.com) to explore her work, sign up for her newsletter, and stay connected on social media.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • From Colonial Virginia to Scotland: Courageous Women in History with Laura Frantz
    Jun 12 2025
    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.
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    26 mins
  • A Wild Heart Authors Round Robin
    Jun 3 2025
    Step into the world of historical romance with Wild Heart Books, a publisher renowned for faith-filled stories set before 1900. On this episode of the Historical Bookworm Show, host **KyLee Woodley joins three talented authors to discuss their latest novels, personal inspirations, and the timeless themes woven into their storytelling. Featured Authors include Megan Soja, Sherry Shindelar, and Lorri Dudley.
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    32 mins
  • Beauty from Ashes in Life and Fiction: Diving Deep with Liz Tolsma
    May 29 2025
    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. A Word of Inspiration 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. Adoption: A Theme Close to the Heart 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. Overlooked History Brought to Life "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. What’s Next for Liz Tolsma? 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 Bookworm Review 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
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    30 mins
  • Writing Through Life’s Seasons: Conversations with Lorraine Snelling
    May 1 2025
    In this episode of the Historical Bookworm Show, award-winning and bestselling author Lauraine Snelling reflects on her remarkable career, which began with her first published book, Tragedy on the Tole, in 1982. With over 140 books and five million copies in print, she offers insights into her writing process, favorite characters, and the inspirations behind her historical novels, particularly Land of Dreams. Snelling also shares deeply personal experiences, including her journey through loss and widowhood, providing a heartfelt perspective alongside her extensive writing and research journey.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Storytelling and Surprises with Joanna Davidson Politano
    May 1 2025
    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. About the Author 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. About the book The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House 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.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Episode 108: Rebuilding after World War II with Australian Author Jennifer Mistmorgan
    Apr 13 2025
    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.
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    Less than 1 minute