Episodes

  • From Wedding Tragedy to Redemption: A Conversation with Tracie Peterson About Designed with Love

    From Wedding Tragedy to Redemption: A Conversation with Tracie Peterson About Designed with Love
    Jun 27 2025
    When author Tracie Peterson opens her latest novel with a gunfight at a wedding, you know you're in for something different from the typical historical romance. In our recent LiteraryScape podcast interview, Peterson shared the compelling story behind Designed with Love, the second book in her Hope of Cheyenne series, and gave us a glimpse into the heart of her storytelling craft.A Shocking BeginningDesigned with Love doesn't ease readers into the story—it plunges them headfirst into drama. Set in the late 1880s, the novel opens in Texas at what should be a joyful wedding. Emma Johnson, our spirited protagonist, is about to marry Tommy Benton when tragedy strikes. A young woman bursts in, kills Emma's fiancé, and accidentally shoots Emma in the process before taking her own life."It's not typical to have a gunfight at a wedding opening your book," Peterson acknowledges, "but it was necessary for my characters."This traumatic event becomes the catalyst for Emma's spiritual journey. Lying in a hospital bed, terrified of dying, Emma—who once told her mother she didn't want to be a Christian because "they didn't have fun"—finally opens her heart to faith through the loving intervention of her stepmother.Characters That Capture HeartsWhile Emma's transformation from fun-loving rebel to woman of faith forms the emotional core of the story, Peterson reveals that one of her favorite characters is Rosie, the sister of Tommy's older brother Colton. Rosie has learning disabilities and has been hidden away by her family, told she's incapable of learning anything."Rosie has no filters," Peterson explains with obvious affection. "She just says things that the rest of us would filter... sometimes I wish I could perform without filters. I think we all have those moments."Emma becomes Rosie's advocate and teacher, helping her discover abilities no one believed she possessed. "She starts learning how to sew and then she wants to cook and then she wants to ride a horse and then she sees a piano and wants to learn," Peterson shares. "It's everything at once."This character was inspired by Peterson's own family member who was born with the umbilical cord wrapped around their neck and told doctors not to bother trying to teach them. "She's kind of a culmination of the spirit of, 'I'm gonna get this done. You watch me' that I find in my family."The Art of ForgivenessThroughout our conversation, Peterson emphasized one of the central themes woven through all her novels: forgiveness. "Forgiving is always a key issue in my books because I've had to be forgiven a lot and I've had to forgive a lot," she reflects. "I think everybody has. And I think it's something that universally we can all relate to."This theme proves especially relevant as Emma navigates her new life in Cheyenne, Wyoming, supported by Colton, who has loved her from afar but never spoke up while she was engaged to his brother.Rich Historical DetailsPeterson's research into 1880s Cheyenne brings authentic historical texture to the story. She consulted with members of the Wyoming Stock Growers Association about ranching and spoke with railroad experts about the Union Pacific's expansion through the territory. The novel incorporates real historical elements, including the construction of Cheyenne's beautiful red sandstone depot during this pivotal period when Wyoming was achieving statehood."Cheyenne is just a fascinating place. Wyoming has a lot of really neat occurrences," Peterson notes, explaining how she draws from both the early formation period of the late 1860s in her Heart of Cheyenne series and the later development era of the 1880s-90s in the Hope of Cheyenne books.What's NextReaders won't have to wait long to continue the journey—all three books in the Hope of Cheyenne series are releasing in 2025, with A Constant Love having debuted in March and Designed with Love arriving in July.Peterson is already working on her next series, set in 1870s Minneapolis, which will follow three generations of women united by their heart for helping the homeless, displaced, and orphaned. "It's going to be a generational story," she explains, spanning from grandmother to granddaughter across the three books, all scheduled for release in 2026.Connect with Tracie PetersonReaders can find Peterson at tracypeterson.com, where they can sign up for her newsletter and send messages. She's also active on Facebook as Author Tracie Peterson and can be reached through Bethany House Publishers.Designed with Love promises to be a perfect summer read—a story that combines historical authenticity, compelling characters, and timeless themes of redemption and second chances. Sometimes the most beautiful love stories begin in the most unexpected ways, even with a gunfight at a wedding.Designed with Love releases in July 2025 as part of the Hope of Cheyenne series from Bethany House Publishers.
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    16 mins
  • Behind the Scenes with Tracie Peterson: Second Chances and Montana's Hidden Gems

    Behind the Scenes with Tracie Peterson: Second Chances and Montana's Hidden Gems
    Jun 20 2025
    AnnouncementsThe LiteraryScape Book Club is here! You can now become a member for just $7 a month or $70 for the year. Just head on over to www.literaryscape.com and click on Book Club in the menu to join.Our next Coffee and Books event will be on Tuesday June 24th from 2:00-3:00pm EST. Join authors Lynn Shannon, Crystal Caudill, and myself for an hour of book talk! Be sure to sign-up for this free event at www.literaryscape.com/events to receive a link to join in.I am thrilled to announce the cover reveal and pre-order launch for my brand-new Wild West romance that's going to capture your heart and keep you on the edge of your seat.Introducing Uncharted Trials book two of the Bounty Brothers series—a gripping tale where murder, faith, and forbidden love collide in the untamed American West.Picture this: Dr. James McPherson, a bounty hunter with a healer's heart, never expected his latest patient would steal his soul. But when he meets Madeline Flynn—a fierce protector of her deaf brother and survivor of unspeakable tragedy—everything changes. As James tends to her wounds, he vows to shield her from the murderer stalking her family.But here's where it gets intense, listeners. As their attraction deepens, dark secrets from both their pasts threaten to destroy everything they hold dear. When their pasts violently collide and Madeline is torn from James's grasp, both must trust in God's plan to find their way back to each other.With a killer's shadow looming and their faith tested to its limits, Madeline and James face an impossible choice: Is love worth the risk? And is God's grace enough to overcome the demons that haunt them?This is more than just a romance, friends. This is a heart-pounding tale of faith, healing, sacrifice, and second chances set against the backdrop of the untamed American frontier. It is a story that will have you questioning whether faith and love can truly outrun the shadows of the past—or if the killer hunting Madeline will destroy their chance at happiness forever.Uncharted Trials is now available for pre-order at www.literaryscape.com/shop only.Head over to www.literaryscape.com to secure your copy today and be among the first to experience this unforgettable journey of love, faith, and redemption in the Wild West.That's all for today's announcement, but we'll be back with more incredible books and authors. Until then, keep reading, keep believing, and remember—the best stories are the ones that touch both your heart and your soul.Episode Notes:Behind the Scenes with Tracie Peterson: Second Chances and Montana's Hidden GemsWe had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with bestselling author Tracie Peterson to discuss her latest collaboration with Kimberly Woodhouse, An Unexpected Grace, the third book in the captivating Jewels of Kalispell series. What unfolded was a conversation filled with insights about faith, second chances, and the magic that happens when authors bring history to life.A Series Born from Montana's BeautyThe Jewels of Kalispell series holds a special place in Peterson's heart, and for good reason. Each book in the trilogy centers around a specific historical building in Kalispell, Montana, near Glacier National Park. An Unexpected Grace features the Macintosh Opera House, a fascinating piece of local history that came alive through Peterson and Woodhouse's research."We chose the Kalispell area because it's so gorgeous up there," Peterson explained. "You've got the Glacier National Park and just beautiful, beautiful lakes and mountains, and we thought that would be a lot of fun."What makes this collaboration even more special is the serendipitous timing—for the first time in their writing partnership, Peterson and Woodhouse lived just two miles apart in Montana, allowing them to plot and plan together in person.Characters Wrestling with God's CallingAn Unexpected Grace tells the story of two people who fell in love in their youth but were separated when their individual callings seemed to pull them in different directions. Now, years later, they're given a second chance at love—but not without wrestling with questions that many of us face.Our hero begins the story having thought he was called to be a pastor, only to feel God directing him toward acting—a profession looked down upon by many Christians in the early 1900s. "Here's a young man who loves the Lord and felt that he could use his acting career to spread the gospel and to speak to people who might not otherwise hear it," Peterson shared.Meanwhile, Johanna, now widowed with a child, creates elaborate hats (perfect for the fashion-forward early 1900s) while caring for her injured father and questioning her own path forward.Themes That Resonate TodayWhat struck us most about our conversation with Peterson was how deeply personal these themes are for her—and likely for many readers. The question of whether we're following God's calling, and what happens when that calling seems to change...
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    25 mins
  • From Texas to the Pacific Northwest: Elizabeth Goddard Brings Storm-Watching Suspense to Hidden Bay

    From Texas to the Pacific Northwest: Elizabeth Goddard Brings Storm-Watching Suspense to Hidden Bay
    Jun 6 2025
    AnnouncementsThe LiteraryScape Book Club is here! You can now become a member for just $7 a month or $70 for the year. Just head on over to www.literaryscape.com and click on Book Club in the menu to join.So what exactly is the LiteraryScape Book Club? It's an exclusive community where readers who appreciate passionate-but-pure Christian romance can come together in a more intimate setting.When you join the Book Club, you'll receive:First, exclusive online author events where we can chat directly about books, writing, and all things historical and contemporary suspense romance. I'm talking Q&A sessions, behind-the-scenes peeks at my writing process, and special guest appearances from other authors in these genresSecond, free ebooks of ALL my new releases. That's right—as a member, you'll automatically receive an ebook copy of every new novel I publish, delivered straight to your inbox.Third, early access to signed paperbacks and merchandise before they're available to the general public. You'll be first in line for signed copies, special editions, and any bookish merchandise we create.Fourth, regular door prize drawings exclusively for members. Throughout the year, we'll be giving away signed books, exclusive merchandise, and other special surprises.And finally, a community of readers who appreciate the same kind of stories you do—a place where we can discuss the books we love.So come join us in the LiteraryScape Book Club today!In other news. . .Our next Coffee and Books event will be on Tuesday June 24th from 2:00-3:00pm EST. Join authors Lynn Shannon, Crystal Caudill, and myself for an hour of book talk! Be sure to sign-up for this free event at www.literaryscape.com/events to receive a link to join in.The Kickstarter campaign for my novel, Uncharted Trials, is complete. Thank you to everyone who purchased a limited-edition cover. Your purchase helps cover publication costs. Stay tuned as Uncharted Trials releases this month, which means a cover reveal is coming soon along with pre-orders!And now, let's dive into today's bonus episode, where we'll be talking with author Elizabeth Goddard.Episode NotesWelcome to another Friday Literacy Book Club podcast recap! This week, host Melissa LaShure sat down with author Elizabeth Goddard to discuss her captivating Hidden Bay series and the upcoming release of book two, "Perilous Tides," hitting shelves in July 2025.A Writer's Journey: From Dream to RealityElizabeth Goddard's path to publication is a testament to persistence and passion. Like many of our featured authors, her story began with a simple love of reading that eventually blossomed into a writing career. "I was just an avid reader growing up and it was just always in the back of my mind to pursue writing," Goddard shared.Her journey officially began in 2001 when she joined ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers), submitting a chapter a week to critique groups and attending conferences for five years before landing her first book deal. Her debut novel was published in 2007 with Heart Song Presents, followed by a successful run with Love Inspired Suspense, and now with Ravel, the publisher of her current Hidden Bay series.What makes Goddard's story particularly inspiring is how she balanced her writing dreams with raising children and homeschooling—a reminder that pursuing our passions often requires sacrifice and dedication from the whole family.The Hidden Bay Series: Where Gothic Romance Meets Pacific Northwest BeautySet on the rugged Washington coast along the Olympic Peninsula, the Hidden Bay series centers around Cedar Trails Lodge—a storm-watching lodge where guests come to witness the spectacular winter storms crashing against the rocky cliffs. Goddard describes the setting as having "rocky, cold, rough waters, crashing waves" that create the perfect backdrop for suspense.The series follows different characters who come to the lodge to hide from their pasts, facilitated by the mysterious Evelyn Monroe, a character who has grown increasingly important throughout the series. As Goddard explains, "I have all these different characters come in that have come to the lodge to hide... and then danger finds them there."The inspiration for this atmospheric setting comes from Goddard's love of classic gothic romances by authors like Victoria Holt and Phyllis Whitney. "The image of a mansion on top of a cliff overlooking these crashing waves is just kind of in my mind," she said, and she's modeled the lodge after the real Claylock Lodge on the West Coast.Perilous Tides: A Forensic Artist's Deadly EncounterBook two, Perilous Tides, follows forensic artist Joe Cattrall, who has been hiding at the lodge after her mother's murder in Michigan. When she receives a cryptic message from the father she never knew, Joe leaves her safe haven to search for him. Her journey takes a deadly turn when she witnesses a murder on a ferry crossing Puget Sound, leading to an attempt on her own life.The story ...
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    31 mins
  • Lynn H. Blackburn Interview: Inside the Beloved Gossamer Falls Romance Series

    Lynn H. Blackburn Interview: Inside the Beloved Gossamer Falls Romance Series
    May 23 2025
    Discover the magic behind Lynn H. Blackburn's beloved Gossamer Falls romance series in our exclusive author interview. Get insider details on family dynamics, character inspiration, and exciting hints about Mo & Bronwyn's upcoming story in book 3.
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    46 mins
  • From Bugged Cars to Blooming Romance

    From Bugged Cars to Blooming Romance
    May 16 2025
    AnnouncementsOur next Coffee and Books event will be on Tuesday June 24th from 2:00-3:00pm EST. Join authors Lynn Shannon, Crystal Caudill, and myself for an hour of book talk! Be sure to sign-up for this free event at www.literaryscape.com/events to receive a link to join in.The Kickstarter campaign for my novel, Uncharted Trials, only has 15 days left and I'd love your support in bringing this story to life.Uncharted Trials is a gripping Wild West romance where murder, faith, and forbidden love collide. It follows James McPherson, a physician and Bounty Brother who never expected his latest patient would steal his heart. But Madeline Flynn, a survivor of unspeakable tragedy, awakens something in his soul. As he tends to her wounds, James vows to shield her from the murderer stalking her family.As their attraction deepens, dark secrets threaten everything they hold dear. When their pasts violently collide and Madeline is torn from his grasp, both must trust in God's plan to find their way back to each other.The funds raised through this Kickstarter will go directly toward professional publishing costs, ensuring Uncharted Trials receives the quality presentation it deserves. And as a special incentive for backers, I'm offering an exclusive limited-edition cover that won't be available anywhere else once the campaign ends on June 1st.Whether you're a fan of historical fiction, faith-based stories, or just love a good romantic suspense, I think you'll find something to enjoy in Uncharted Trials.To support the campaign and secure your copy, just visit www.literaryscape.com/campaign or follow the link in this episode's show notes. Even if you can't back the project financially, sharing it with friends who might enjoy this kind of story would mean the world to me.And finally, I'm thrilled to officially announce the launch of the LiteraryScape Book Club is coming May 23rd!Now, if you've been listening to this podcast for a while, you know that my journey as an author began when I couldn't find enough historical Christian romance novels that balanced faith with the kind of passion described in Song of Solomon—you know, books that are "packing the heat and riding the line," as I like to say.That's why I started writing my own adventures set in the wild west, featuring cowboys who tame the frontier while honoring both God and the women they love.What I didn't expect was how many of you would reach out saying you've been searching for the exact same thing—and how many of you wanted more ways to connect beyond just reading the books or listening to this podcast.That's where the LiteraryScape Book Club comes in.So what exactly is the LiteraryScape Book Club? It's an exclusive community where readers who appreciate passionate-but-pure Christian romance can come together in a more intimate setting.When you join the Book Club, you'll receive:First, exclusive online author events where we can chat directly about books, writing, and all things historical and contemporary suspense romance. I'm talking Q&A sessions, behind-the-scenes peeks at my writing process, and special guest appearances from other authors in these genresSecond, free ebooks of ALL my new releases. That's right—as a member, you'll automatically receive an ebook copy of every new novel I publish, delivered straight to your inbox.Third, early access to signed paperbacks and merchandise before they're available to the general public. You'll be first in line for signed copies, special editions, and any bookish merchandise we create.Fourth, regular door prize drawings exclusively for members. Throughout the year, we'll be giving away signed books, exclusive merchandise, and other special surprises.And finally, a community of readers who appreciate the same kind of stories you do—a place where we can openly discuss the balance of faith and passion in romance without feeling like we have to apologize for wanting both.Now, I know many of you are wondering how this relates to the podcast. Don't worry—the LiteraryScape podcast isn't going anywhere! In fact, the book club will enhance your podcast experience.As a book club member, you'll get:Input on which books we review nextThe chance to submit questions for author interviewsThe podcast and book club work together to create what I've always envisioned: a one-stop shop for both readers and writers of historical Christian romance and contemporary Christian suspense romance to connect, learn, and grow together.Get ready to join us on May 23rd as we launch the LiteraryScape Book Club!And now, let's dive into today's regular episode where we'll be discussing Break My Fall by Lynn H. Blackburn. Episode NotesOn this week's episode of LiteraryScape, our hosts dive deep into Lynn H. Blackburn's romantic suspense novel Break My Fall, the second installment in the Gossamer Falls series. This small-town romantic suspense had our hosts captivated with its blend of dental clinics, drug trafficking, and ...
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    44 mins
  • From Kitchen to Kidnapping: LiteraryScape Discusses Lynn H. Blackburn's Downfall

    From Kitchen to Kidnapping: LiteraryScape Discusses Lynn H. Blackburn's Downfall
    May 9 2025
    AnnouncementsHey everyone! Before we dive into today's episode, I wanted to share some exciting news with our listeners. I've launched a Kickstarter campaign for my novel, "Uncharted Trials," and I'd love your support in bringing this story to life."Uncharted Trials" is a gripping Wild West romance where murder, faith, and forbidden love collide. It follows James McPherson, a physician and Bounty Brother who never expected his latest patient would steal his heart. But Madeline Flynn, a survivor of unspeakable tragedy, awakens something in his soul. As he tends to her wounds, James vows to shield her from the murderer stalking her family.As their attraction deepens, dark secrets threaten everything they hold dear. When their pasts violently collide and Madeline is torn from his grasp, both must trust in God's plan to find their way back to each other.The funds raised through this Kickstarter will go directly toward professional publishing costs, ensuring "Uncharted Trials" receives the quality presentation it deserves. And as a special incentive for backers, I'm offering an exclusive limited-edition cover that won't be available anywhere else once the campaign ends.Whether you're a fan of historical fiction, faith-based stories, or just love a good romantic suspense, I think you'll find something to enjoy in "Uncharted Trials."To support the campaign and secure your copy, just visit www.literaryscape.com/campaign or follow the link in this episode's show notes. Even if you can't back the project financially, sharing it with friends who might enjoy this kind of story would mean the world to me.Thanks so much for listening, and now, let's get to the next exciting announcement that was promised last week!Before we dive into our regular content, I want to take a moment to announce something I've been working on behind the scenes for months now—something many of you have actually been asking for.I'm thrilled to officially announce the launch of the LiteraryScape Book Club is coming May 23rd!Now, if you've been listening to this podcast for a while, you know that my journey as an author began when I couldn't find enough historical Christian romance novels that balanced faith with the kind of passion described in Song of Solomon—you know, books that are "packing the heat and riding the line," as I like to say.That's why I started writing my own adventures set in the wild west, featuring cowboys who tame the frontier while honoring both God and the women they love.What I didn't expect was how many of you would reach out saying you've been searching for the exact same thing—and how many of you wanted more ways to connect beyond just reading the books or listening to this podcast.That's where the LiteraryScape Book Club comes in.So what exactly is the LiteraryScape Book Club? It's an exclusive community where readers who appreciate passionate-but-pure Christian romance can come together in a more intimate setting.When you join the Book Club, you'll receive:First, exclusive online author events where we can chat directly about books, writing, and all things historical and contemporary suspense romance. I'm talking Q&A sessions, behind-the-scenes peeks at my writing process, and special guest appearances from other authors in these genresSecond, free ebooks of ALL my new releases. That's right—as a member, you'll automatically receive an ebook copy of every new novel I publish, delivered straight to your inbox.Third, early access to signed paperbacks and merchandise before they're available to the general public. You'll be first in line for signed copies, special editions, and any bookish merchandise we create.Fourth, regular door prize drawings exclusively for members. Throughout the year, we'll be giving away signed books, exclusive merchandise, and other special surprises.And finally, a community of readers who appreciate the same kind of stories you do—a place where we can openly discuss the balance of faith and passion in romance without feeling like we have to apologize for wanting both.Now, I know many of you are wondering how this relates to the podcast. Don't worry—the LiteraryScape podcast isn't going anywhere! In fact, the book club will enhance your podcast experience.As a book club member, you'll get:Input on which books we review nextThe chance to submit questions for author interviewsThe podcast and book club work together to create what I've always envisioned: a one-stop shop for both readers and writers of historical Christian romance and contemporary Christian suspense romance to connect, learn, and grow together.Get ready to join us on May 23rd as we launch the LiteraryScape Book Club!And now, let's dive into today's regular episode where we'll be discussing Downfall by Lynn Blackburn. Episode NotesA deep dive into this fast-paced novella from the Gossamer Falls seriesIn our latest episode of the LiteraryScape podcast, we gathered to discuss Downfall, a romantic suspense novella by ...
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    19 mins
  • Secret Doors and Second Chances in Never Fall Again

    Secret Doors and Second Chances in Never Fall Again
    May 2 2025
    AnnouncementsThe limited edition covers of Unwavering Faith and Uncharted Trials are now available for pre-orders. We sell paperback and hardback limited edition covers to help cover publishing costs. It costs anywhere between $8,000 and $10,000 to cover all the costs associated with publishing a book along with the audiobook. Your purchase of a limited-edition cover allows us to continue to independently publish high quality novels. Plus, you get a collector’s item in return. Our goal is to sell 100 hardback and 200 paperback copies.These limited-edition covers will only be available until June 1st. After June 1st they will go into the vault and will not be coming back out. Now is the time to get in on the ground level and start your collection of The Bounty Brothers series.Since we are fully independent you can only find these books at www.literaryscape.com/shop. You can visit www.literaryscape.com/campaign to learn more about this book funding campaign and thank you for your support!We will have an exciting announcement next week that you will not want to miss. For now let’s jump into our discussion of Never Fall Again by Lynn Blackburn. Episode NotesIn this week's episode, our book club dives into Lynn Blackburn's romantic suspense novel set in the picturesque town of Gossamer Falls, North Carolina.Book Synopsis"Never Fall Again" introduces us to Landry Hutton, an artist who has spent three years rebuilding her life behind the secure gates of the Haven, an exclusive resort on the outskirts of Gossamer Falls. Finally ready to settle permanently and provide her daughter Eliza with a safe home, Landry's path crosses with former Marine Callum Shaw.Cal has returned to his hometown to join his family's construction business and dreams of starting a family of his own—something he's nearly given up on. When he meets Landry, she's everything he could want in a partner, but he vows to keep his distance, having loved and lost someone like her before.When Landry's pottery studio is destroyed in a suspicious fire, it becomes clear that she and Eliza are in grave danger. Cal must risk his heart again if he has any hope of protecting them.Character DiscussionsLandry HuttonOur book club found Landry to be incredibly strong considering her backstory. Her past relationship with an abusive husband who maintained a "good boy" façade resonated deeply with several members. The group discussed how frightening it was that Landry's ex-husband had presented himself as the perfect partner, only to reveal his true nature after marriage.The group was particularly affected by how the church community refused to believe Landry when she tried to speak out about the abuse. As one member pointed out, "No one would believe her... they're like, 'No, you're just not being a good wife.'" This aspect of the story highlighted the challenging dynamics that can exist when an abuser is well-established in a tight-knit community.Callum ShawCal's character received much praise from our book club, particularly regarding his relationship with Eliza. Members were touched by his natural ability to connect with Landry's daughter.Cal's backstory—having been abandoned by his previous girlfriend through what amounted to a "Dear John" situation while he was deployed—struck a chord with the group. One member expressed, "When I read it, I was like, oh my gosh, that was terrible... she just disappeared."Supporting CharactersMaisie the Dog: The group unanimously loved Cal's intuitive dog who always seemed to know who needed comfort. There was some discussion about a plot thread involving Maisie's puppies that wasn't fully resolved, with one member noting, "They talked about her having puppies, but then... we didn't hear more about it."The Shaw and Quinn Families: Members appreciated the tight-knit family dynamics portrayed in the book. Cal's family, along with their cousins the Quinns, create a supportive network that "takes everybody in." The group was particularly fond of Granny Quinn, and Minnie, Cal's mentally disabled aunt who the family lovingly cares for.Mystery & Suspense ElementsThe mysterious attacks on Landry kept our book club guessing. Initially, many suspected her ex-husband's family might be behind the threats, but as one member pointed out, "I didn't think that was at all plausible... there wasn't enough motive there."The playground attack scene was highlighted as particularly unsettling: "That one scared me... it was creepy." Members were disturbed by the masked assailant asking children their names.The discovery of a secret door in Landry's art studio added another layer of mystery that captivated the group.Romance DevelopmentThe group enjoyed watching Cal and Landry's relationship unfold, particularly how they tried to be discreet about their attraction—checking in at the construction site and trying "not to be obvious"—while everyone around them could see their connection developing. As one member put it, "Everybody ...
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    24 mins
  • The Bandit's Redemption: An Interview with Debut Author KyLee Woodley

    The Bandit's Redemption: An Interview with Debut Author KyLee Woodley
    Apr 26 2025
    In a special bonus episode of the LiteraryScape podcast, host Melissa LaShure sits down with debut author KyLee Woodley to discuss her new historical romance novel, The Bandit's Redemption, released on the day of the interview.About the BookThe Bandit's Redemption carries the intriguing tagline: "A holdup gone wrong, a reluctant outlaw, and the captive she's sworn to guard." What makes this western romance unique is its female protagonist—Lorraine is the outlaw, not the hero Jesse. This twist on traditional western narratives was inspired by KyLee's research into real-life dangerous women from history.The novel features an engaging blend of historical romance with a pinch of suspense and adventure. Set primarily between Idaho and Salt Lake City in the 1800s, the story includes authentic historical locations like Soda Springs, with its natural carbonated springs, along with plenty of western staples: train rides, bank robberies, and high-stakes adventure.A Long Journey to PublicationKyLee's path to becoming a published author wasn't an overnight success story. Despite being a teacher by profession and having a reading disability, she persevered through approximately 11 years of daily writing practice before signing with Wild Heart Books last year."I'm a born teacher, I'm not a born writer," KyLee shared. "I'm like the last person that God should have called to be a writer."Her dedication included joining critique groups through ACFW, writing short stories and nonfiction pieces, studying the market, reading craft books, and attending conferences. After her first query in 2018, it took another six years of pitching, querying, and interacting with industry professionals before securing her publishing contract.Characters That Come to LifeWhen discussing her characters, KyLee expressed particular fondness for both Jesse and Lorraine. Jesse, kidnapped just as he was meant to start working in his father's business, proves to be surprisingly adaptable, strong, and wise when faced with his challenging circumstances.Lorraine's character journey centers around moving past tragedy. As an immigrant who left France following personal losses, she's been emotionally stuck for years, unable to put down roots in America. Her spiritual journey begins when she questions her involvement with the outlaw gang and her decision to kidnap Jesse.The villain, Pierre, presented the biggest writing challenge. As a gang member vying for control and clashing with Lorraine, Pierre required KyLee to understand his selfish motivations. She occasionally journaled from his perspective to better capture his character, describing him as someone who "doesn't really have [a moral code], not much at all... he mocks because he just doesn't care about anything."Research and InspirationHistorical research played a significant role in KyLee's writing process. She explored Lorraine's French backstory, including the Franco-Prussian War, which connected with her own German ancestry. The geographic locations in the novel, particularly Soda Springs in Idaho with its natural carbonated wells and coral-like formations, came from personal travel experiences.A Message of HopeWhile KyLee doesn't deliberately start with a spiritual theme, her faith naturally informs her writing. As she works on her stories, elements from her Bible study, devotions, and her pastor's messages find their way into the characters' journeys.For readers of The Bandit's Redemption, KyLee hopes they'll be encouraged to "look around at the people that God has put in our life" and recognize that "everything that we do, we do for God."Through Lorraine's character arc, readers witness someone learning to move forward despite past losses, embracing new people and places rather than clinging to what's comfortable or familiar. "God really fulfills the dreams of her heart," KyLee shares, "but at the same time, she has to take a firm stand for what's right."For the Romance ReadersIn LiteraryScape's coffee-themed rating system, KyLee places the romance level in her book as a "mocha" (medium amount). The novel is clean with only two kisses, aligning with Wild Heart Books' focus on clean inspirational fiction. However, she ensures that the romantic element remains strong through the characters' chemistry and their significant page time together.Advice for Aspiring AuthorsFor those dreaming of publication, KyLee offers both encouragement and realism:Don't give up – "It's a really long road and I love our Christian fiction market right now, but it's saturated."Be wise with your time – Balance writing with family responsibilities and life seasons.Listen for God's calling – "Be willing to accept it no matter how big or how small."Support others – "Give to others as you would have them give to you."Connect with KyLeeReaders can find KyLee on Instagram and through her podcast with co-host Darcy Fournier. She especially invites readers to connect through her newsletter at KyleeWoodley.com, ...
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    31 mins