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A Figurative Shadow
Zephyr Trails follows a young woman living in Southern Missouri in 1866 who finds herself grappling with her own burgeoning interests, a developing epidemic, and rumors that her father, thought to be lost, may still be alive. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
I have always loved Westerns: books, movies, TV shows. I wanted to write a Western with a strong female protagonist who knew her horsemanship. There weren’t a lot of those around. I came to realize most Westerns were based in or around the Civil War. I was not a Civil War buff, but my research uncovered so many interesting and obscure facts about the war: women’s roles during and because of the war, the times leading up to the war, families separated by war, and the reconstruction era. The simple Western I meant to write took on a more literary bent. Though it’s technically Historical Fiction, I like to call it a “Literary Western.” Zephyr Trails is the second book in the Ellis River trilogy. The protagonist, Ellis Cady, started her journey in Tennessee. Life at the time could be very different from one side of the Mississippi River to the other. The more I learned, the more I became involved with my characters and their stories and how war affects people and families. At some point, the characters led the way.
Why choose this place and time for the setting of the story?
A lot was happening historically in this setting. During the Civil War, Missouri was considered a “border state.” It never officially took sides in the war. This statewide internal conflict added to my character’s internal conflict. Ellis was raised in a Quaker community (in Tennessee) that taught patience, peace, and acceptance. I imagined the difficulty of reconciling those beliefs with the reality of slavery and war. The setting of post-Civil War Missouri contributed a figurative shadow over the characters and their attitudes and loyalties. I think it helped provide an interesting tension. Also, I was born in St. Louis, raised across the Mississippi River in Illinois, and stumbled upon so much of that area’s history never taught in school. At least it wasn’t taught while I was listening. St. Louis, Missouri, was the starting point for much of the migration west, so it had to play a major role in this story. There were actually two cholera pandemics that hit the area because of the influx of people and inadequate water and sewage systems. One hit in 1849 and one in 1866 when Zephyr Trails takes place. The Pony Express originated in St. Joseph, Missouri, and though it had been out of service for four years by the end of the war, it made sense that its fictional re- establishment might start there.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
Picking a favorite character is a bit like picking a favorite child. I enjoy writing them all for different reasons. I’ve always had a love for horses and have been lucky enough to own and work with them through the years. They are characters in my books, and I thoroughly enjoy writing for them. All the horses in Zephyr Trails are based on actual horses I’ve known. I truly believe writing a character-driven novel is a collaboration with the characters, whether horse or human. I birth them, and they take on a life of their own. I try to guide them, but they sometimes come up with their own ideas. The more challenging ones to write for are those who don’t open up to me as much or need more coaxing to do so. Lou and Tory are rather quiet but complex men. They may have been more affected by traumatic life experiences than some, and I wanted to be as respectful as possible to their Indigenous heritage, as well.
I find a problem in well-written stories, in that I always want there to be another book to keep the story going. Is there a second book planned?
I’m delighted that Zephyr Trails can be read and enjoyed as a stand-alone, though it is the second book of the Ellis River trilogy. And, yes, there is a third book in the works. The first book, Ellis River, was meant to be a one-off, but it developed into more. Not until I finished Zephyr Trails did I know it would be a trilogy.
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After waiting out winter at the Cady ranch in southern Missouri, hope blooms in the Spring of 1866. Ellis receives news of a mysterious man arriving in St. Louis. Will she find her father alive and well, or finally put his memory to rest?
Grasping at the illusive promise of her father’s whereabouts, Ellis is distracted by the intrepid trick rider, Jimmie, a woman who rides with Levi Jack’s Wild West Exhibition. Then, talk of reinstating a messenger service akin to the Pony Express rekindles a faded dream. Since the war’s devastation, important letters and messages still need to get through a Western landscape governed by Indians and outlaws. When an untimely epidemic threatens, Ellis finds herself back in the saddle, a young woman and her horse on a perilous trail.
What Once Was Promised
Set in 1914, What Once Was Promised by Louis Trubiano opens with sixteen-year-old Domenic Bassini, who boards the Cretic, bound for America and a future filled with unknowns. Leaving his family behind in Italy, Domenic’s journey across the Atlantic is one of hope and uncertainty. Aboard the ship, he meets Cologero and Francesca, a young married couple brimming with dreams of a new life, and Ermino, a stowaway searching desperately for his father. Together, they envision a land of promise and opportunity, unaware that the paths they embark on will twist and bind them together for decades in ways they could never have foreseen.
What Once Was Promised is a rich, multigenerational saga that vividly portrays the Italian immigrant experience in early 20th-century Boston. Trubiano masterfully blends themes of love, loss, family, and survival with the gritty realities of politics and organized crime. The setting bursts to life with meticulous detail, drawing readers deep into the vibrant world of Boston’s North End. Every corner of the city pulses with authenticity, from its cramped tenements to its bustling markets, without ever bogging down the narrative with overwrought descriptions. Instead, the immersion feels effortless, making you experience the hardships, the joys, and the perseverance of a community bound by heritage and resilience. What keeps this novel so captivating is the powerful sense of family that courses through its pages. The characters’ struggles against racism, punishing labor conditions, and the challenges of tenement life are rendered with empathy and depth. Trubiano weaves a story where survival isn’t just about overcoming obstacles but about the bonds that sustain and uplift. In a world battered by the flu epidemic, the Great Depression, and World War II, the lesson is clear: everything starts and ends with family, a timeless truth passed down through generations. The novel’s characters are unforgettable. Domenic, Ermino, Cologero, Francesca, and the many others who populate this story feel achingly real. Trubiano’s gift for character development ensures that each person leaves an indelible mark on the reader. Their choices shape their destinies in unexpected ways, and witnessing how their lives unfold is as rewarding as it is heart-wrenching.
The narrative evokes a spectrum of emotions, moments that made me laugh out loud, passages that brought tears, and scenes that left me gasping in shock. I found myself so engrossed in their world that I often paused to look up real events and figures from history, eager to know more. What Once Was Promised is a triumph of historical fiction that offers a deeply moving glimpse into the past. It’s a story of dreams, survival, and the enduring power of family, one that lingers long after the final page. Truly, I never wanted it to end.
Pages: 314 | ASIN : B0D57JJRJJ
Realistic and Focused
Echoes of Fortune: The Search for Braddock’s Lost Gold follows a man and his friends who, after discovering a clue to a long-lost Braddock’s gold, set off on a dangerous quest to find the missing treasure. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I grew up in the region where much of the French & Indian War (Seven Year’s War) took place, including Braddock’s campaign. I go between Southwestern PA and Garrett County (Western Maryland), where most of the story takes place. I love to read historical fiction as well as history itself. I am aware of a number of legends that are spread across our country, many stemming from the early parts of the US, including the one surrounding Braddock’s lost payroll and bribes. I have seen people using metal detectors along the Youghiogheny River and some in the woods when we have taken the hiking trail that follows much of Braddock’s expedition. Given that knowledge and knowledge of the area, it made sense to craft a story surrounding it that takes into account many of the theories as to why General Braddock followed that dangerous route when Washington took a different trail the year before, and General Forbes took another 3 years later.
The supporting characters in this novel, I felt, were intriguing and well-developed. Who was your favorite character to write for?
It’s a toss-up on Steve and Emma. The characters are based on the people that surround me, or I grew up with. Sometimes a single person, or a combination of two.
For example, my quiet, unassuming wife can be a bit of a badass. Everyone’s jaws drop when they hear some of the things she does, like whitewater rafting, scuba diving, or jumping off a cliff and into a river. She’s the “don’t judge a book by its cover” person, as she can be fierce when she needs to be.
Steve is mostly based on my best friend; we grew up and went to school together from 2nd grade through college. He’s a brilliant engineer, one of the top students in our high school class, and won the top engineer student award at Penn State, but he also has black belts in Hapkido and Taekwondo and always tries to crack you up. Steve’s last name came from my friend’s nickname from the engineering school, who put the wrong last name in the awards program. Steve’s first name came from another good friend, a former marine who served in the Persian Gulf, and that is where the idea of Steve’s military background came from. You’ll see why I chose the Navy in the next book.
I felt that there were a lot of great twists and turns throughout the novel. Did you plan this before writing the novel, or did the twists develop organically writing?
A little of both. I did not want to do the usual find a cryptic clue, go to the next clue, solve it, go to the next clue, etc. (although I enjoy those) I wanted it to be more realistic and focused on the story and characters so there was more to it. Yes, I wanted the thrills and suspense, but I wanted more. The first thing I do with any writing is build an outline and timeline (or, in this book – timelines). I flesh out more details, making sure I include relevant facts that are known and refine them several times before starting to write. I also figured out who the characters I needed were, their personalities, backgrounds, speech, problems (flaws), and what they looked like. For example: Jack’s OCD, Emma’s fear (of several things), and Steve’s social awkwardness and how he compensates for things (btw-my best friend is not like that). However, as I write the story, I get a better feel for things and often realize I have to make changes as I go. Or even add characters to solve an issue. In my case, I did not like the initial ending, so to create a better one, I changed who I killed off. I also changed the complete role of a side character in the story when writing.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
Yes. I am working out two possible stories. The one that is “in the lead right now” has to do with how the end of the Civil War played out, where Jefferson Davis sent much of the Confederate treasury into hiding in several places. I do not want to give away too much. Although the story starts as another treasure hunt, it quickly transitions into a full-blown thriller where Jack’s and Steve’s military backgrounds come out more and are needed. Yes, there will be a new “interest” for Steve, and yes, more twists and turns.
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Can one man change his past with the discovery of a lifetime?
Echoes of Fortune: The Search for Braddock’s Lost Gold is a multi-award-winning thriller that weaves mystery, suspense, and historical intrigue across centuries. Winner of the 2024 PenCraft Book Award for Best Thriller, 2nd place in Action & Adventure at the 2024 Book Fest Awards, a Gold Book Award from Literary Titan, and a #1 Amazon New Release in Mystery/Thriller (September 2024), this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Driven by obsession, Jack Sullivan has lost nearly everything in his pursuit of an untold secret—a secret lost for centuries during the chaos of war. Left heartbroken and alone, luck has given him one final chance for redemption that leads him into the shadows of historical mystery and peril.
Be transported between the heat of the battle during the French & Indian War and the high-stakes hunt of today. When Major General Braddock faces his final foe, a fortune in payroll disappears—centuries later, Jack embarks on a daring quest to uncover it, facing cryptic clues, deadly traps, and relentless adversaries. Witness Jack as he follows the echoes of the past “Dan Brown-style,” and risks everything to bring the past to life—and perhaps restore his own.
Described as “National Treasure meets Indiana Jones,” this high-stakes, action-packed thriller blends rich history with relentless suspense. Echoes of Fortune dives into high-stakes, edge-of-your-seats adventure where love, loyalty, and courage are tested to their limits.
When a Stranger Knocks
When a Stranger Knocks by Peggy Ann Shumway is a compelling blend of mystery and slice-of-life storytelling, elegantly weaving together themes of love, faith, and the complexities of human experience. The novel follows Joaquina, a young woman devastated by the brutal murder of her loved ones at the hands of a stranger. Haunted by trauma, she becomes wary of letting anyone new into her life. However, when two strangers unexpectedly arrive, Joaquina is torn between the hope for healing and the fear of further heartbreak. The novel poignantly explores whether these new arrivals will bring love and solace or only deepen her sorrow.
From the very first page, I was captivated by Shumway’s writing. The atmosphere is hauntingly eerie as the story begins, immediately drawing the reader into Joaquina’s world. The author’s ability to evoke empathy for the characters and their tragedies is remarkable, making their pain and struggles feel deeply personal. Each character is thoughtfully crafted, resonating with a sense of familiarity, but it was Noah’s character that truly stood out for me. His gentle and comforting presence adds a layer of calm to the narrative, leading to a bittersweet yet peaceful conclusion. The prose is exquisite, rich with metaphors and deeper meanings that make every sentence worth savoring. I found myself more engrossed in the beauty of the writing and the intricacies of the characters than the mystery itself, though the plot is equally engaging. One of the novel’s most enchanting aspects is its exploration of miracles and the way the characters’ stories are seamlessly intertwined. The narrative offers insightful reflections on faith and doubt, which are subtly woven through the characters’ experiences. The bond between Noah and Michael is particularly touching, adding warmth and authenticity to the story. The concept of strangers entering our lives and helping us overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges is both poignant and beautiful, almost like an angelic presence that arrives when needed most. The way these characters find each other at their lowest points is heartwarming, and despite the darker themes of murder and mystery, the prose maintains a gentle, comforting tone that reassures the reader.
The setting further enhances the novel’s slightly eerie atmosphere, leaving you wondering about the origins of the strangers and what they will bring next. The symbolism and meaningful resolution provide a fitting end to a beautifully written story. When a Stranger Knocks is a remarkable read, especially for those who appreciate descriptive, lyrical prose. It’s a book that resonates on multiple levels and lingers with you long after you’ve finished. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves richly crafted narratives with a focus on character and atmosphere.
Pages: 385 | ASIN : B0D6Q29L1C
Remarkable and Inspiring
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk follows a woman on a journey to the New World in 1620 who encounters challenges that she could not have foreseen and must fight for her own survival. What inspired the setup of your story?
For over forty years, I have done genealogy as a hobby to learn more about my family, where we came from, and what we went through. As a part of that process, I realized how seldom women were at the forefront of histories stories even though they were often the ones holding the whole thing together. I felt like I needed to give these women, my ancestors, and yours, a voice.
Sarah is portrayed as an ordinary woman who has to rise above the standard stereotype to survive the harsh conditions she finds herself in. What do you find interesting about the human condition that you think makes for great fiction?
I think we often forget that it is the ordinary person among us who often does extraordinary things. Sarah doesn’t see herself as a victim of the many challenges she faces, instead, she seizes each of those challenges to grow and learn and in the process, she discovers who she really is, and what she is really capable of. That is inspiring to me and I hope to others who read my books.
When you first sat down to write this story, did you know where you were going, or did the twists come as you were writing?
I did not. This was my first novel, and while I knew the story would start on the Mayflower, I knew little else. I didn’t even know how the story would end until it did! As I “became” Sarah and began to weave into her story things that had happened to my ancestors, and to those of her time, the story just grew organically. Sarah is an amalgamation of what so many women of that time endured, the pain, the struggles, the joy, and the hope for the future.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
On the Wings is the first of the trilogy The Centenary Chronicles-Tales of American Women. The second book which follows Sarah’s great-great-granddaughter Eliza during the American Revolution was published in November of 2023. Till I Come Home is another story of an ordinary woman faced with circumstances most of us could not even imagine and how she manages to face those challenges while finding a way to hold her marriage and her family together.
The last book in the Chronicles is out next week, Her Last Full Measure is a very personal book for me, heavily based on my own family’s experience during the Civil War and follows Eliza’s great-granddaughter Millicent and her family. Men get and deserve great accolades for the sacrifices they make in war and that theme runs through all the books. But, it’s the women, what they must do to survive while the men are gone that is truly remarkable and inspiring. It doesn’t always have a happy ending, it isn’t always easy, and sometimes it is raw and painful. But each of these books takes the reader into the heart of a woman they can admire, empathize with, and be inspired by, leaving the reader feeling hopeful with a newfound appreciation for what their ancestors did so they could be here today.
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Winner of the highly coveted 5-star Highly Recommended award from The Historical Fiction Company.
Nominated for the Eric Hoffer Award for Excellence.
Plymouth 1620-Sarah has left the security of all she knows to travel with her husband to the New World, but things don’t go as planned. The Mayflower is lost unable to find the colony already there they must manage on their own. Not enough food, no shelter, then people start dying. Can Sarah find her inner strength and prevail or is she destined to join the others, another grave on Coles Hill.
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk is deeply satisfying. Whether it veers towards happiness or sadness, it stays true to the story’s spirit and provides a fitting conclusion to Sarah’s journey.
This book stands out for its focus on ordinary women of the past, whose accomplishments were anything but ordinary. This perspective is refreshing and adds a unique dimension to the genre of historical fiction. The authors skill at incorporating historical elements into an engrossing story without becoming boring is impressive. Because of the evocative and detailed writing, Sarah’s experiences come to life on the page. A cleverly written plot arc with a distinct beginning, middle, and end. Every stage of Sarah’s trip receives sufficient attention, guaranteeing a smooth and seamless progression of the story. A must read for everyone who loves strong woman characters who overcome the odds.
Circus Home: A Novel of Life, Love and New Jersey
Jason Ollander-Krane’s historical fiction novel Circus Home transports readers into the lively and colorful realm of circus performers anchored in New Jersey. The narrative takes us through various settings, including 1880s Brooklyn, 1920s Mississippi, 1940s Detroit, and 1950s New York City. The book skillfully blends drama, humor, and wit, reflecting the eclectic experiences of a circus troupe and captivating readers with its engaging storytelling.
At the heart of this novel is Brendan Hardy, the seasoned carnival barker who draws people into the enthralling world of the circus. As Brendan ages, he acquiesces to his daughter’s request to move into an assisted living facility. Yet, this is no ordinary facility; he chooses the New Jersey Home for Retired Circus and Carnival Performers, a place resonant with echoes of his past life. Here, Brendan gathers and shares the rich tapestry of tales from the retired performers, collectively known as the Circus Home, weaving together their shared histories and experiences.
Circus Home is thoughtfully structured into eight ‘acts,’ each unraveling a story from Brendan’s past and the pasts of those around him, fluidly shifting between timelines. The reader encounters a series of compelling characters: Herbert Gopnik, the Clown; Walter Whalen Jr., the Magician; Hiram Fitzgerald, the Voice of the Big Top; and Norman Rockwell, the Thinnest Man. Brendan’s narrative includes his romance with Iris, the Elephant Tamer. It delves into the extraordinary lives of Jackson and Martin Armstrong, the Siamese Twins, as well as the gripping tale of Larisa Yohantova Grayson and Chance Grayson, the security agents of the troupe.
The convergence of these diverse and vivid characters, each with a unique background but united by their passion for performance, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of the circus. Circus Home is a novel that appeals broadly, inviting readers to delve into the enchanting and multifaceted lives of its characters.
Pages: 342 | ASIN : B0BJNYJ577.
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk
Gail Combs Oglesby’s On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk is a historical fiction novel that delves into the journey of Sarah Bailey and her husband, Jonathan, as they embark on a life-changing voyage to the New World. Filled with aspirations, their journey takes an unforeseen and hazardous turn. The narrative dramatically shifts when Jonathan’s demise is caused by a severe winter illness, leaving Sarah widowed and in charge of her brother-in-law.
In this trying period, Sarah stands out as a formidable and resilient character. Oglesby’s narrative highlights the strength and perseverance of women during this era, underscoring their significant, yet often overlooked, contributions to history. The author adeptly intertwines historical themes within the story, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary women who faced extraordinary challenges. The book is marked by its compelling blend of engaging storytelling and meticulous historical detail. Oglesby’s vivid and descriptive writing style immerses readers in the struggles and triumphs of colonial life, fostering an emotional connection with characters, particularly the tenacious Sarah Bailey. The author excels in depicting Sarah’s emotional depth and steadfast determination, showcasing her evolution from an optimistic newcomer to a courageous survivor. The novel’s pacing is dynamic, and its swift plot developments add to the vibrancy of a richly woven narrative full of historical insight. It concludes with a poignant and hopeful note that resonates deeply with its audience, leaving a lasting impression.
On the Wings of the Red-Tailed Hawk is an enriching read for those interested in historical narratives, especially those that highlight women’s experiences. It offers a detailed and empathetic portrayal of immigrant life and the struggles faced by women in the past. The novel’s vivid storytelling, memorable characters, and insightful exploration of colonial history come together to create a touching and compelling journey, exemplified by Sarah’s poignant and resilient story.
Pages: 361 | ASIN : B0C79JX7FY
JFK FYI
JFK FYI, by Gary B. Haley, offers a meticulously researched exploration into one of America’s most enduring mysteries: the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Haley delves deep into the intricate details of this historic event, examining a variety of suspects and their potential motives, supported by a wealth of evidence.
This book stands out for its commitment to uncovering lesser-known aspects of the assassination. Haley’s approach includes sifting through early evidence, witness accounts, and documents, adding a fresh dimension to the well-trodden narrative of this pivotal moment in history.
While firmly rooted in historical analysis, JFK FYI transcends the typical boundaries of the genre. Haley skillfully weaves a narrative that is both informative and engaging, appealing to readers beyond just history enthusiasts. His ability to inject a sense of adventure into the recounting of these events speaks to his notable storytelling prowess. One of the book’s strengths lies in Haley’s extensive research, which is evident in the depth and detail of the information presented. He doesn’t just rely on well-known facts and evidence; instead, he delves into the pre-assassination events, uncovering new suspects and angles that have previously been overlooked. This thorough approach offers readers a comprehensive view of the assassination, encompassing both well-known and obscure details.
In JFK FYI, Haley not only shines a new light on a significant historical event but also engages readers with his compelling narrative style. The book stands as a testament to Haley’s dedication and expertise, making it a valuable contribution to the field of historical literature.
Pages: 203 | ASIN : B0CJ6HJ54H
LITERARY TITAN 