Blog Archives
Inspired By My Mom
Wildwood Healer follows a big-hearted elderly woman who takes a boy and his dog under her wing, and together, they work to bring change to their struggling community. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My dear, departed mother always told us stories of how difficult a time it was and I wanted to evoke the same in this story and maybe honor her bright spirit and optimism in the face of despair. She and my dad married in 1932 when they lived in a government run migrant camp in Kansas City. They stood before a preacher in overalls and a borrowed dress and shoes, believing the only way to survive was to throw in their lot together. Also the spirit of the story Fried Green Tomatoes sort of hung in the background I think. I’ve always loved reading and hearing stories of survival during the Depression so I really wanted to write a story about it.
I found Sicily Rossi to be a very well-written and in-depth character. What was your inspiration for her and her emotional turmoil throughout the story?
Miss Sicily is inspired by my mom. I’ve never known a stronger woman. It seemed no task was too great for her. She was the best cook around but she could also roof a house, work on our car, sew our dresses- sometimes even without a pattern, keep a house, and especially stretch a dollar. Plus, she had a heart as big as Texas and helped those around us, often taking a neighbor woman to work so she wouldn’t have to walk. There was no end to the love for her fellow man. She always said, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” And she found it. There were five of us kids and we never did without. So Miss Sicily was easy to create. She knew hard times and believed it was her duty to help those she could. The abused girl in the story, Martha Ann, came to love her like a mother. Sicily didn’t sit still and wait on others to do the work. Using deep convictions and grit, she dove in and created an answer for the town’s starving populace.
What was one scene in the novel that you felt captured the morals and message you were trying to deliver to readers?
The scene with the drunk Leroy comes to mind. Sicily put herself in danger, facing a loaded gun, simply because she knew in her heart it was the right thing to do. She had to protect Martha Ann from her abusive husband however she could. She’d determined she couldn’t let Leroy continue to beat his wife and made a stand. She was a true hero, someone larger than life. She believed you had to stand up when it counted and stand up to wrong. Sicily lived by the rule that if you saw something wrong, you had a moral duty to say and/or do something. We’d be a lot better off today if we still adhered to that philosophy.
What next book are you working on, and when will it be available?
I just finished a Christmas novella called “Love Comes to Christmas.” It’s based on the old carol, “Love Comes Down at Christmas” and is the story of a young woman who has faced deep tragedy and pain but is blessed with the gift of music. It’ll be available on Amazon December 4th. I also plan to release another historical fiction this coming year. An idea is percolating.
Author links: Website | Book Review
Sicily Rossi is a healer in the truest sense but wonders how one heals dark hatred. She knows the healing power of plants and taps into nature’s remedies. Changing deep-set ways requires more than simple concoctions. Nature can’t remove the rage from a vicious wife-beater, but somehow, Sicily must save the young girl from a horrible fate and/or a life of torment.
An orphan teen and dog that Sicily finds living in the woods fills her loneliness and, as she teaches him the natural healing power of plants, they fight to help the girl along with the town’s starving residents. Together, they come up with a plan to feed them all and perhaps be a catalyst for change.
Yet, will their efforts be enough to save them all from a man bent on destruction?
Echoes of Fortune: The Search for Braddock’s Lost Gold
Echoes of Fortune: The Search for Braddock’s Lost Gold by David R. Leng is an exciting blend of historical legend and modern-day adventure. The story revolves around the long-standing mystery of Braddock’s gold, rumored to have been lost since 1755, and Jack Sullivan’s unexpected discovery of a clue that reignites the hunt. What starts as a thrilling search for hidden treasure soon turns into an expedition filled with peril, as Jack and his friends face dangerous traps, intricate puzzles, and personal challenges. As the promise of fortune looms large, they must navigate not only the physical dangers of their quest but also the risks it poses to their relationships and personal lives.
One of the strengths of this novel is how well Leng captures the tension and excitement of a treasure hunt. His narrative style keeps the pacing brisk, with just enough suspense to keep you eagerly flipping pages. The historical setting, woven seamlessly into the present-day plot, is depicted with rich, detailed descriptions that transport the reader into each scene. The dialogue and surroundings feel authentic, immersing you in the mix of history and adventure. Whether it’s the chaotic moments of discovery or the quieter, more introspective ones, Leng strikes the right balance between action and emotion. The plot itself is dynamic, full of twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. Leng constantly raises the stakes, crafting a journey filled with puzzles, riddles, and maps that engage both the characters and the reader. The excitement builds as Jack and his companions unravel clues, giving you the chance to solve some mysteries alongside them. The personal dilemmas faced by the characters add another layer to the story, grounding the adventure in real emotional stakes. Their backstories provide depth, making them more than just treasure hunters—they’re fully realized individuals with personal growth at the heart of their journey. Themes of friendship, loyalty, and the struggle between greed and personal integrity resonate throughout the book. Leng explores the dynamics between the characters as they navigate not just the physical challenges of their quest, but also the emotional toll it takes on them. The adventure, while thrilling, serves as a vehicle for deeper themes about personal growth, dedication, and the true value of wealth.
Echoes of Fortune is a captivating historical thriller that blends adventure, history, and personal drama to keep readers engaged from start to finish. The twists, puzzles, and strong character development make it a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good treasure hunt with heart. It’s perfect for fans of historical fiction, thrillers, and stories that combine action with emotional depth.
Pages: 426 | ASIN : B0DDF6S5CZ
How Much Sacrifice it Takes
Difficult Times follows an eighteen-year-old farm boy in the 1860s who dreams of heroism and honor and joins the Union army. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I have always been inspired by the sacrifice and dedication some individuals put into a cause they feel passionate about. Regardless of the cause, there is one defining characteristic these people display, and that’s dedication and a no quit attitude. I wanted to illustrate, in some small way, how much sacrifice it takes to build and maintain a country. I wanted to show how much sacrifice and heartache just one family might have to endure to meet those ends, just one family, multiplied by thousands upon thousands throughout the years. My vehicle was the Civil War.
What kind of research did you do for this novel to ensure you captured the essence of the stories theme?
I researched every aspect of the book, from competing attitudes and political views to how much coffee an individual soldier was issued. For this general type information, I used Wikipedia and Google. Newsletters and historical government websites were helpful.
I read Memoir of a Revolutionary Soldier by Joseph Plumb Martin to see how Thomas connected with the author and helped influence his decision to volunteer.
I consulted Major George L. Wood’s The Seventh Regiment, a Record 1865, for first-hand accounts of troop movements, timelines, and campaigns.
Finally, I researched the Library of Congress for actual newspaper accounts. I felt presenting these articles would help drive home the point that these events happened to real people and that these real people and their families suffered real emotions.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think makes for great fiction?
I believe that whatever our stations in life is, most of us imagine ourselves being, doing, or experiencing other things. From Sci-Fi to Horror to heroics, the possibilities are endless. The fiction writer who can tap into a topic, or fantasy, and present it well, will most likely have the greatest success.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
My next book will be a collection of short stories. I have only completed two so I can’t give a timeline as to when the book will be ready for publication.
War is declared, and Thomas volunteers, causing high anxiety and stress for his family and Elizabeth. Thomas assures everyone he won’t be away long. His enlistment period is only 90 days. This assurance does little to ease the pain of his leaving.
Expectations for a short war fade, and it becomes clear to Thomas that he won’t be going home as expected, and the longer the war lasts, the more he worries about losing Elizabeth. He writes and proposes marriage, but gets no reply. Is it possible she didn’t receive his letter? Perhaps her return letter was lost or is in the dead letter file. Maybe she’s
declining his proposal. The uncertainty is nerve-racking.
All the while, camp and combat conditions deteriorate, taking their toll on his regiment, the 7th Ohio Infantry. So far, Thomas and his close circle of friends have managed to survive, but that could change with the next battle.
A Celtic Yuletide Carol
A Celtic Yuletide Carol beautifully weaves together the story of Ulla, the daughter of a Viking chieftain who has lost her voice following the tragic deaths of her husband and son, and Cardin, a former knight struggling with grief after losing his wife and estranging himself from his son, Lukaz. Cardin’s reluctant return home, driven by his mother’s dying wish, brings him into Ulla’s life, and as their worlds intertwine, they begin to heal from their shared pain.
Set in 13th-century medieval France, author Jennifer Ivy Walker crafts a captivating love story filled with heartache, healing, and the magic of the holiday season. Both Ulla and Cardin are richly developed characters who have endured years of emotional suffering, and their journey of overcoming trauma and finding love feels authentic and deeply moving. The historical backdrop enhances the story, while the festive atmosphere adds an extra layer of warmth.
Walker’s writing shines throughout the novel. She has a remarkable ability to draw readers into the world she creates, making them feel deeply connected to the characters. The bond between Cardin and Ulla is both tender and powerful and left me convinced that these two souls were destined to find each other. Their relationship unfolds with grace as they help one another overcome their past wounds and form a connection that feels both unique and timeless. Adding a touch of humor, Cardin’s mother brings lightheartedness to the story with her determined efforts to reunite her family. Her antics are both amusing and endearing, capturing the essence of a loving, scheming mother who will stop at nothing to bring her son home.
A Celtic Yuletide Carol is an enchanting and cozy holiday read, perfect for curling up with during the festive season. Walker’s storytelling leaves readers with a heartwarming sense of joy and renewal, making it an ideal pick for those looking for a feel-good tale filled with love, healing, and the spirit of the season.
Pages: 212 | ISBN : 1509257446
Miss del Río: A Novel
In Miss del Rio, Barbara Mujica masterfully reimagines the life of Mexican film star Dolores del Rio, as seen through the eyes of a Mexican immigrant, Maria (Mara) Amparo. Set against the backdrop of the Mexican Revolution, the novel captures both the sweeping history of a nation and the intimate experiences of two women from starkly different backgrounds. Mara, orphaned and forced to flee her home, finds refuge in Mexico City, where she becomes entangled with the politically influential Madero family. Meanwhile, Lola (María de los Dolores Asúnsolo López-Negrete), born into wealth, sees her privileged life upended by the chaos of the revolution when she is assaulted by a revolutionary servant. The two women, brought together by war, are later separated but find a way to reconnect as their lives take divergent yet intertwined paths.
Mujica excels in portraying the brutality of this war-torn period, immersing readers in the violence and upheaval of early 20th-century Mexico. The visceral imagery—graphic depictions of bodies littering the paths of both characters—leaves a chilling impression, intensifying the novel’s historical atmosphere. The fast-paced narrative keeps readers engaged, especially as Mara’s sympathetic, slow-growing character contrasts with Lola’s evolution into a glamorous figure in both Mexican and American culture.
Dolores del Rio, the novel’s central figure, is introduced through the lens of Mara’s perspective, which adds depth to the storytelling but also presents certain challenges. One of the strengths of Miss del Rio is Mujica’s ability to vividly bring to life both the historical context and the complex emotional journeys of her characters. The Mexican Revolution is not just a backdrop but a living, breathing presence that shapes every decision and action. Mujica’s portrayal of class distinctions, especially through Mara’s eyes, adds depth to the narrative. I felt a genuine empathy for Mara’s struggles, as she navigates her own sense of worth while watching Dolores ascend to fame. The contrast between Mara’s life of hardship and Dolores’ life of glamour is stark, and the author handles it with a delicate touch. There are moments where the narrative structure falters. The shifting perspectives between first and third person can be confusing, particularly when switching between Mara’s personal recollections and the more detached, third-person account of Dolores’ life. While I appreciate Mujica’s ambition in telling the story from multiple angles, the lack of clear transitions made it hard to stay fully immersed in certain parts of the book. Mujica excels in creating an emotionally charged atmosphere, especially in her depiction of relationships. The bond between Mara and Dolores feels real and deeply rooted, even when tested by time and circumstance. Dolores’ glamorous yet troubled life contrasts beautifully with Mara’s grounded and often heartbreaking reality.
Miss del Rio is a rich, engaging novel that blends historical fiction with a deeply personal narrative. Barbara Mujica paints a vivid picture of both revolutionary Mexico and the golden age of Hollywood, capturing the complexities of friendship, fame, and identity. While the book occasionally struggles with its perspective shifts, the emotional core of the story remains strong. Fans of biographical fiction will also appreciate Mujica’s thoughtful portrayal of Dolores del Río’s life.
Pages: 428 | ASIN : B09P1NH1WQ
Seven Hills One Light
Hazel Dains’ debut novel, Seven Hills One Light, is a captivating work of historical fiction that weaves together themes of love, faith, and resilience, all set against the turbulent backdrop of ancient Rome. The novel is emotionally charged, vividly detailed, and brimming with unexpected twists that make it impossible to put down. Readers will be drawn in by the interplay of unconditional love, heart-wrenching betrayals, and passionate dreams, all of which form the foundation of this beautifully written story.
The plot centers on two sisters, Tryphosa and Tryphena, who find themselves swept up in the storm of religious persecution during Nero’s reign. Tryphosa, or Phosa, the novel’s protagonist, is an ambitious young woman with grand aspirations for her future. Yet, their faith as Christians puts them in grave danger, forcing them to flee their home, believing they are being led toward their deaths. The dynamic between the sisters is one of the most compelling elements of the story, as they endure crisis after crisis with their faith as the unbreakable thread that holds them together. Phosa’s journey also leads her to discover love in Simon, though this, too, comes at a cost.
At its heart, the story explores the strength of faith in the face of adversity and the transformative power of love. Dains’ deep passion for history is evident throughout the novel. The historical setting of Rome in 59 AD is meticulously crafted, bringing to life its societal structures, religious tensions, and vibrant atmosphere. The immersive writing transports readers into the world of ancient Rome with rich descriptions and deeply felt emotions, making it easy to become fully engrossed in the story. The book is packed with suspense that all builds toward a thrilling conclusion that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment, Seven Hills One Exodus.
Seven Hills One Light is a gripping and emotionally resonant tale that will captivate fans of historical fiction and thrillers alike. With its powerful themes and unexpected twists, it promises a reading experience full of excitement and depth. Once you finish this novel, you’ll be eagerly awaiting the rest of the series.
Pages: 223 | ASIN : B0DB6JLCLD
The Little Dutch Girls
The Little Dutch Girls by Pablo Zaragoza offers a poignant and immersive exploration of the Dutch resistance during World War II, centering on the life of Freddie Oversteegen. Now 82 years old, Freddie, along with her sister Truus and their friend Hannie, has become a symbol of heroism for their courageous actions as teenagers during the war. Yet, despite the admiration that surrounds her, Freddie carries the weight of her past, often haunted by the memories of what she endured and the choices she made.
This historical fiction novel presents Freddie as a central figure, who is interviewed for a documentary about her wartime experiences. Through these interviews, readers are drawn into Freddie’s reflections, her encounters with the film crew, and her emotional journey as she revisits the traumas and triumphs of her youth. Zaragoza skillfully brings Freddie to life as a deeply human character—strong yet vulnerable, willing to share her feelings and inner struggles. This openness provides readers with a nuanced understanding of her emotional state, both during the war and in the present day. Freddie’s honesty about her wartime experiences, her lingering guilt, and the toll it has taken on her life makes her a relatable and compelling character. I found this vulnerability to be one of the most engaging aspects of her portrayal. It’s refreshing to see such raw honesty in a character, especially when discussing the personal impact of historical events. The novel also delves into her personal life, offering glimpses of her relationship with her late husband Jan and their shared journey of raising three children, which adds further depth to her character. Zaragoza’s attention to detail in depicting historical events makes this novel a standout for fans of historical fiction. Freddie’s story, while at the heart of the narrative, is enriched by the backstories of other key characters, even the minor ones, adding layers of realism and complexity to the overall plot. The blend of personal history with broader wartime events creates a well-rounded and vivid portrayal of life during the Dutch resistance.
For readers who enjoy richly detailed historical fiction, The Little Dutch Girls offers a moving, authentic portrayal of war, survival, and the long-lasting effects on those who lived through it. Freddie Oversteegen’s story is a testament to both the strength and fragility of the human spirit, making this novel a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Pages: 220 | ASIN : B0DDTS1SZF
LITERARY TITAN 