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

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!

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

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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/

In this episode, host, Becki, takes us on an adventure to Scotland with special guest author Kate Galley, whose book "Golden Girls Road Trip" was March's pick for the book club. Kate shares her inspiration for the novel, recounting her own memorable road trip through Scotland with her husband, and discusses her unique writing journey that led to her becoming a published author.

Inspiration in Unlikely Places: Kate shared how her experiences as a mobile hairdresser have inspired the rich characters and plots in her novels. Her story about transforming a client's account of a Christmas trip into a full-fledged novel, "Second Chance Holiday Club," is a testament to finding inspiration in everyday conversations.

Road Trips as Creative Journeys: Both Becki and Kate discussed their love for road trips as a means of exploration and inspiration. Kate even turned her own spontaneous UK road trips into the backdrop for her book "Golden Girls Road Trip."

Embracing Golden Years in Fiction: Kate emphasized the importance of representing older generations in literature. Her books often center around characters finding new adventures and challenges later in life, offering readers a fresh perspective on 'golden years' fiction.

You can join us in the Literary Escapes Book Club to explore new destinations and authors every month.

Are you ready for another literary adventure? 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-143-exploring-golden-years-fiction-with-kate-galley/

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/

Today Becki chats with author Julie Sneed Womack about her writing journey. With a background in screenwriting and a variety of life experiences, including traveling through Europe and teaching young children, Julie crafts heartfelt and vivid stories.

Listen in as Becki and Julie discuss the intricacies of character development and the art of novel writing, particularly highlighting how Julie's personal adventures breathe life into her narratives.

In this episode, they explore both of Julie's novels (be advised of potential spoilers for "Taking Her to Mykonos"). Julie's debut novel, "Tea with Isabel," is a sentimental tribute to her grandmother and unfolds in the charming setting of Oklahoma. The story delves deeply into female relationships and personal evolution.

Meanwhile, "Taking Her to Mykonos" draws inspiration from Julie's own backpacking escapades across Europe, whisking readers away to picturesque destinations while examining themes such as friendship and self-discovery.

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-142-epic-travels-deep-friendships-julie-sneed-womack/

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/

Ever wondered how books can be the cornerstone of strength during tumultuous times? Listen in to this Literary Escapes Book Club meeting with author Madeline Martin as she discusses The Keeper of Hidden Books and more!

(Note – if you haven’t read Keeper of Hidden Books yet, there may be spoilers!)

Set in Poland during WWII, Madeline's novel is a tribute to the power of books and strong women protagonists. She reveals the inspiration behind her story and the real events that shaped her narrative.

Madeline also shares with us her research process, including trips to locations relevant to her book settings, and how real historical events and figures inspire her writing. The conversation touches upon themes of preserving cultural heritage through books and the challenges faced by Poland during Nazi occupation.

Madeline reveals her next two books, including a Victorian-era novel and another based on the 1600s witch trials.

Don't miss this episode if you love stories about hidden history, the power of literature, and female empowerment. Listen now to witness how books illuminate the darkest of times.

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-141-impact-of-books-amidst-conflict-madeline-martin-keeper-of-hidden-books/

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/

Ever had a wild celebrity encounter? Dive into a world of Hollywood glamour, romance, and juicy secrets with Christy Swift’s new rom-com, Celebrity Crush.

Christy shares how the idea for "Celebrity Crush" emerged from the NYC Midnight Short Story Contest and an Avengers movie marathon during quarantine. Exploring Hollywood glam and the life beyond the screen, she weaves a tale combining fandoms, romance, and personal growth.

Becki and Christy also discuss the fun of celebrity crushes, their favorite celebrity meeting memories, and much more!

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-140-inside-the-world-of-celebrity-crush-a-chat-with-author-christy-swift/

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/

Last year we traveled the U.S. through books. This year, Literary Escapes Podcast is going global!

Each month in 2025, we will be “traveling” to a new destination, with a Book of the Month and a companion read. In January we were in Poland with “Mrs. Mohr Goes Missing” by Maryla Szymiczkowa and "The Keeper of Hidden Books" by Madeline Martin. Stay tuned for our book club interview with Madeline, which will coming to the podcast soon!

You can find links to these two books as well as several other books set in Poland here:

https://literaryescapes.fun/books-set-in-poland/

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/

You can find the full list of books and podcast episodes from last year’s Read Across the US here:

https://literaryescapes.fun/read-across-the-us-book-club/

Do you have a destination you’d like to visit with the book club? Let Becki know!