Ever wondered how a philosophy professor becomes a mystery writer?

Meet Dr. Kelly Oliver, a recently retired philosophy professor turned mystery author. Kelly shares her unique journey from academia to fiction, explaining how her background in philosophy—especially her work on women's issues and justice—informs her novels.

She discusses her two main series: the Jessica James mysteries, inspired by her own grad school experiences and tackling serious social issues with humor, and the Fiona Figg historical mystery series, which spotlights real women from history who have been overlooked or marginalized.

Kelly also shares some behind-the-scenes tidbits from her latest series, The Detection Club, and stories about Agatha Christie’s real-life adventures.

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Episode links:

https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-146-reclaiming-womens-history-with-author-kelly-oliver/

We’d love to have you join us in the Literary Escapes Book Club – get more info and sign up here: https://literaryescapes.fun/literary-escape-book-club/

Meet Jeannine Johnson Maia—an author, explorer, and dreamer whose international adventures and deep appreciation for history infuse every page of her writing. Jeannine’s journey is as international as her novels—growing up in Virginia, teaching in France, studying in Italy, years spent reporting in Brussels, and finally, discovering “home” in Porto, Portugal. Her words bring history to life and illuminate hidden corners of Europe, making you feel like a traveler even from your favorite reading spot.

Becki and Jeannine dive into the origins of her latest book, "The Filigree Master's Apprentice," set against the historic backdrop of Porto and its iconic bridges. Inspired by Porto’s rich tradition of filigree jewelry and the towering presence of Eiffel’s bridge, the novel is a tapestry of 19th-century urban life—and the personal journeys of those swept up in the city’s changes.

Jeannine says, when history feels quiet, look closer. The Filigree Master’s Apprentice dives into an “uneventful” 1877 Porto, revealing how even the slow years brim with untold stories, cultural shifts, and personal journeys. And the research process for writing the novel was an adventure in discovery! Jeannine visited archives, met craftspeople, and walked the city streets to bring authentic details, like filigree artistry and lost bridges to life in her books.

Becki and Jeannine also discuss the challenges of fitting in as a foreigner in Portugal, learning the language, and making authentic connections. Jeannine reflects on the joys and hurdles of writing historical fiction, her love for exploring Portugal’s hidden gems, and her process of balancing research and imagination. She even shares some insights about her current writing projects, including struggling with “uncooperative” characters and honing story structure.

If you value the intersection of travel, history, and creative process—or just love the magic of getting lost in a great book—give this episode a listen!

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Episode links:

https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-145-portugal-with-author-jeannine-johnson-maia/

We’d love to have you join us in the Literary Escapes Book Club – get more info and sign up here: https://literaryescapes.fun/literary-escape-book-club/

What makes a Jenna Brandt romance special? Flawed, loveable characters who heal each other. “I love giving characters a wound—and letting love help them mend.” Her favorite tropes? Small-town, second chance, grumpy-sunshine, and even “redeeming the villain.”

You won’t want to miss this chat with inspirational romance author Jenna Brandt who is known for her inspirational romances full of humor, suspense, and elements of faith!

From childhood, Jenna was surrounded by words—literally under her journalist mom’s desk. But her path to publishing wasn’t a straight line: querying, agents, rejections…until a friend said: “Just do it yourself!” And so she did.

Jenna shares behind-the-scenes stories about her popular first responder and small town romance series—including real-life inspirations from her husband’s law enforcement career—and discusses her passion for crafting authentic, heartfelt stories set in vivid locations around the world.

Are you ready for another literary escape? Let’s go!

CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!

CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!

Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?

CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.

Episode links:

https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-144-law-keepers-canine-heroes-and-safari-rescues-jenna-brandt/

We’d love to have you join us in the Literary Escapes Book Club – get more info and sign up here: https://literaryescapes.fun/literary-escape-book-club/