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How We Value Service
Through Her Lens follows a woman working as a photographer and British Intelligence agent who struggles for personal autonomy during a period of history where women are often overlooked. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I have long loved history, but it doesn’t take much looking to realize that much of what has been kept and written about is men. One evening I was watching an episode of NOVA, a PBS program, called “3D Spies of World War II.” They talked about the V1 and V2 bombs and the pilots who took the images, but they also spoke about the women who worked at RAF Medmenham. Many of them outranked men because the creator of the 3D approach thought women would be better at analysis than men. A woman is credited for finding the V1, Constance Babington Smith. I had a short story with a character named Millie, who was being evacuated from London at the start of the war. My writing group had been encouraging me to explore a longer story for Millie and with this nugget of information about RAF Medmenham, I had my path and one that I wouldn’t have to work to fill in too many gaps. Women did the important analysis work. I only had to learn about them to create a more well-rounded Millie and the world that she would inhabit. It was a chance to tell a true and little-known story about one of the many important things women did to help the Allies’ efforts in defeating the Axis powers.
What were some of the trials that you felt were important to highlight the character’s development?
For a single woman working in the time, the trials were many. It was important to me not to gloss over that fact. For that reason, I made her family rich. Money wasn’t something I wanted her to struggle with. I did want to highlight the limited choices women had. The British government wasn’t going to give her a gun or let her take her camera into the fight for that matter, but they expected her to contribute all the same and with little or no credit. Every day Millie was going to open her beloved newspaper to see honor bestowed on the men of her day. She was going to have to risk everything, remember Britain was regularly being bombed, and get no credit at all. How was an ambitious person to manage something like this? How this would shape Millie interested me. It was also critical that her father not treat her like his sons. He could want things for and from her, but only within what his peers would find acceptable. William may have had progressive ways, due to the influences of his wife—Millie’s mother, Margaret—but they didn’t naturally flow to Millie. They would both need to bend and the conflict between them would need to shape them. Finally, I couldn’t create a world without grave personal loss. No one escaped the war without pain of some sort. Millie couldn’t be an exception.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The thought I kept coming back to was this: There are things we want to do and things we should do, but unfortunately they are rarely the same things. Every character in Through Her Lens struggled with this fact. I believe most of my readers do as well. In this way I was able to take an old story and pull it into the present.
I also wanted the reader to grapple with how we value service. Why is a surgeon more valuable than a garbage man? Why is a man’s work, in the case of my novel, more noteworthy than a woman’s? Why have there been countless stories told of Winston Churchill, the men who stormed the beaches at Normandy, the men who endured the Battle of the Bulge, but few if any of the intelligence work the women did on Churchill’s behalf, the women who worked alongside him in his bunker in London, or the nurses and other women who followed the men into France, or of those who worked without a gun in the Ardennes? I do not mean to diminish the work and sacrifices of the men, only to ask why not the women too.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I found writing flirtatious banter quite fun. I have an idea swimming in my imagination of a group of female whiskey trippers, the folks who hauled booze during prohibition, and have written a few short stories to unearth my heroine. As you might imagine women were overlooked at the time and the 1920s were pretty bad for women. So perhaps an alternate reality of the time or maybe a more modern setting like revamped Smokey and the Bandit, populated by women, of course. I’d like to spend my time with a lighter topic and give my sense of humor a bit of a workout. I’ve visited a few spots in Appalachia to start getting a feel for possible characters and see who I can unearth for more inspiration. And I am constructing a cast with short stories and essays which is my second favorite part of the writing process. As to when it will be ready, who can say—soon, I hope! But research is my favorite part of the process, and it can take some time.
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Three years ago, Millie dutifully packed away her cameras and began her career in Secret Intelligence after discovering her surrogate mother’s flat leveled during the Blitz. Her commander has reassigned her to help verify and destroy the Nazis’ long-range vengeance weapons program before D-Day. Amidst the urgent demands of her work, a Royal Air Force pilot named Callum won’t let her forget who she is. He is always there – sneaking her a camera and tempting her with a life spent with him instead of her fiancé, Elliot.
Melissa Bacon masterfully captures Millie’s struggle to choose between her dreams and her duty to family and country. Through Her Lens chronicles a piece of history based on actual events surrounding Operation Crossbow, a top-secret intelligence investigation tasked with stopping the V1 flying bomb and V2 rocket program. This exploration of women’s empowerment is a must-read for those interested in untold stories of the heroes of World War II.
The Keak Anthology
Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis’ anthology, The KEAK Anthology, presents an intriguing collection that showcases her narrative versatility alongside select works co-authored with Artemios Korkidis. The anthology is organized into three distinct sections, beginning with a compilation of sixteen short stories spanning a diverse range of genres. These narratives explore various themes, from the thrill and peril of space exploration to political intrigue, technological advancements, dystopian visions, reflections on the COVID-19 pandemic, and historical vignettes.
The second part of the collection delves into the world of flash fiction, offering succinct yet impactful stories. These brief narratives navigate the complexities of human relationships and emotions, touching on topics such as strained love, musical passion, and the nuances of parenthood. The final segment of the anthology provides readers with excerpts from five of Korkidis’ previously published novels. These selections delve into various human experiences, including overcoming challenges, rekindling romance, and the consequences of infidelity, engaging readers with their rich characters and compelling plots.
Korkidis’ short stories are notable for their creativity and genre diversity, encompassing mystery, thriller, romance, and dystopian themes. One particularly memorable tale, “Patient Zero,” addresses the unintended consequences of technological advancements, resonating with contemporary concerns about environmental issues and social isolation. In contrast, the flash fiction section stands out for its brevity and clarity, demonstrating Korkidis’ ability to convey profound ideas and emotions in a condensed format. For instance, “The Hug,” a story of just 360 words, encapsulates the complexities and possibilities of human attraction in a single, meaningful gesture. The anthology’s final excerpts leave readers yearning for more, skillfully blending sophisticated character development with absorbing storylines. The character of Daniel, for example, is a compelling figure who, despite battling alcohol addiction, strives to assist others in need. This narrative personally resonated with me due to my own experiences with a family member’s struggles with substance abuse.
The KEAK Anthology is a captivating and diverse collection that appeals to a broad spectrum of readers, particularly those who appreciate anthologies and short fiction. Each story, rich in depth and intrigue, seamlessly leads into the next, affirming Korkidis’ prowess in crafting engaging and thought-provoking narratives.
Pages: 630 | ASIN : B0CHGVWFFJ
Through Her Lens
Through Her Lens, the debut novel by Melissa Clark Bacon, introduces readers to the intriguing world of Millicent (Millie) Trayford, a photographer turned British Intelligence operative during World War II. Millie’s journey begins with her profound commitment to documenting the critical role of women in society through her photography. However, the transformative impact of the Blitz propels her into a new role in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force, a decision influenced by her father.
The narrative meticulously unfolds Millie’s mission to uncover Hitler’s secret vengeance weapons. Amidst this pursuit, she confronts a personal longing for autonomy, challenging the expectations imposed by her father, fiancé, and superiors. As the plot progresses, the stark realities of war and its human cost become increasingly evident, leading to deeply affecting losses for Millie. Bacon masterfully highlights women’s often unheralded yet vital contributions in wartime, drawing attention to their critical roles in achieving victory. Millie’s poignant observation, “Women are always doing interesting and important things that are overlooked,” underscores this theme. Bacon’s narrative prowess is evident in her ability to blend historical authenticity with rich, lesser-known details about the teams tasked with discovering hidden wartime weapons. The novel’s standout feature is its portrayal of Millie as a multifaceted character. Beyond her roles as a photographer and operative, her struggle with the dichotomy of personal goals and societal duties offers a compelling examination of female empowerment during a tumultuous historical era.
Through Her Lens not only presents an engaging story set against the backdrop of World War II but also invites readers to reflect on the complex dynamics of women’s roles in both public and private spheres during a critical period of history.
Pages: 312 | ASIN : B0CSB77NT3
The Bravest Soldiers
Set against the tumultuous backdrop of World War II, Elaine Schroller’s The Bravest Soldiers interlaces the lives of characters hailing from Australia, the USA, and France. The narrative delves into their personal and political struggles amidst the perils and adrenaline of wartime. Central to the story are Sam, an Australian reconnaissance pilot, and Marianne, a French civilian. Their love endures the trials of distance and the chaos of war, sustained through the exchange of poignant letters that echo their hope for a reunion. Meanwhile, Sophie, a nurse skilled in tending to wounded soldiers, faces her own heartaches and challenges.
The evolving relationship between Sam and Marianne forms the crux of the narrative, captivating readers with their emotional journey against the harrowing war backdrop. The contrast between the stark realities of war and their tender romance is effectively portrayed, especially through their endearing exchanges – Sam’s “bright spot in my day” and Marianne’s hopeful “fly safely.” Schroller’s prose vividly transports readers into the heart of the war zone, with its immersive descriptions and dynamic dialogues, vividly bringing to life the terror of an aerial dogfight or the spiral of a falling plane. The book adeptly explores themes of patriotism, hope, resilience, friendship, and familial bonds. While the narrative moves at a brisk pace, focusing primarily on dialogue over internal reflections, this approach adds a dynamic quality to the story. The rapid shifts between characters’ perspectives create a tapestry of experiences, fostering a sense of eagerness and anticipation for the reader to delve deeper into each character’s journey.
The Bravest Soldiers will resonate with enthusiasts of war literature, offering a compelling exploration of love and family during wartime. Its realistic portrayal of historical challenges keeps the reader engaged and anticipating the resolution of its intricate plot.
Pages: 432 | ASIN : B0CDQV5JWV
Exile Music
Orly’s youth is deeply entwined with music, from the serene opera tales of her famous mother to the impassioned strains of her father’s viola. Despite the mounting political unrest in Germany, she finds solace and adventure in the company of her best friend and upstairs neighbor, Annalise, as they create fantastical, eccentric worlds to escape the encroaching challenges of their reality. However, 1938 brings a devastating upheaval when Germany invades, severing Orly from her cherished friend. Fleeing with her parents, they find asylum in the distant mountains of Bolivia. There, Orly faces a dilemma: should she forge a new existence in this unfamiliar land or dare to return to Europe and reunite with Annalise?
Jennifer Steil’s Exile Music: A Novel, set against the backdrop of Vienna during Hitler’s rise, depicts the life of a young Jewish girl. Steil employs historical references effectively, providing readers with a chronological compass through Orly’s journey, and delivering an emotional resonance for those familiar with the Jewish plight during WWII. The novel also weaves in musical motifs, particularly through the tragic operas relayed by Orly’s mother. These references, alongside vivid depictions of the opera house and Orly’s Viennese village, enrich the narrative with a vibrant cultural tapestry, inviting readers into the heart of the characters’ world. The specialized nature of the musical and historical references offers a rewarding opportunity for readers. A deep understanding isn’t essential, but those familiar with these elements will find that their knowledge significantly enriches the emotional depth of the story. The novel’s appeal might vary among readers based on their historical and musical knowledge. The family’s profound connection to music offers a universal touchstone of passion and resilience.
Jennifer Steil has crafted a descriptive and evocative tale that encapsulates the tragedies and perseverance of a Jewish family during WWII. Exile Music is both captivating and eloquent, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a poignant period of history through the eyes of a deeply relatable protagonist.
Pages: 432 | ISBN : 978-0525561835
A Historical Journey
The Road to Moresco follows an Italian woman and her daughter who, during WWII, faced multiple tragedies and had to find a way to survive amidst the constant turmoil. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I was inspired by the actual life events of these two women and even more so their perseverance in the face of these events. I had the good fortune to meet the daughter, Clara, and through conversation with her, I began to also get details about her mother. The time periods and events these women had to endure mirrored a life existence that my own parents and their parents had. It was eye-opening to see this same time period through a different lens. I started doing research into the historical events during those times. I asked deeper questions about how societal shifts in mindsets influenced events and actions. First, I wanted to structure the story as a historical journey, staying true to the timetable of these events like landmarks on a road trip. Along the way, I noticed that the characters’ reactions and emotions became much more important, while the historical references shifted into the background as environmental. The dialogue between characters was the hardest part for me. I wanted to balance the “show don’t tell” aspect of conveying their thoughts and emotions with an almost Socratic-like approach to give the reader a better understanding about how their way of thinking was also changing over time. I do not think I would have been as passionate about telling their story in this manner and doing this work if I had not been so moved and inspired by them in the first place.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
The human condition – what we feel, our emotions, the life events we encounter – can be the basis for empathy and connection to a reader. This goes beyond the psychology or philosophy that a reader may be looking for. There is an acknowledgement, the understanding, that binds the reader to the character leading to a condition where the reader cares about and for the character in the book. The reader sees themselves. They can live through the fiction as if they were there themselves. In that moment, they are on the same journey as the character. They are looking for the same thing. I tried to do that with my storytelling, so that at the end of the book it becomes a shared effort, that the reader, too, has been all along on the road to Moresco.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
There is a central theme of water, first as destruction and catalyst for change, but also a binding element that brings people together. And ultimately a peaceful and serene element that conveys resolution and calm. I was also keen to explore the various theories of psychology and philosophy that not only were driven by shifts in societal norms but also that impacted the characters directly in how they coped with certain events or with each other. Blending Eastern versus Western philosophy was cathartic because I also had to infuse so much of myself into the book and into the characters, my imagination, and my real-life experiences having to fill the gaps.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
I think The Road to Moresco has its own place in my heart, with a certain sense of completeness and depth that I do not want to dilute. I wrote with a certain purposefulness and intended for the context to be approachable while also delivering on ideas and concepts that provoke introspection. I am hopeful people will read this book many times over and get something new from each time. I do not think there is a follow-up to this story. However, I am beginning to work on a new story. It is in the formative stages. I did not consider myself to be a writer before publishing Moresco, but I really enjoyed the process and the result.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
But when multiple tragedies struck – earthquakes and storms, unexpected deaths, World War II, broken relationships, even murders – she, and later her daughter Chiara, were forced to find a way forward despite their irreplaceable losses. Against the backdrop of a Europe in constant turmoil, their survival instincts, persistence, and resilience became their path forward. Discover more about these astounding, complicated, talented women in The Road to Moresco.
Kate’s War
Linda Stewart Henley’s novel Kate’s War presents an evocative narrative set during the tumultuous period of World War II. It centers on Kate, a young English woman whose aspirations in music are abruptly halted by the outbreak of war. The story eloquently portrays her struggle to adapt to the drastic changes brought by the war, including the constant threat of bombings and the prospect of London’s invasion.
Henley masterfully weaves a tale that not only delves into Kate’s personal transformation but also explores her newfound relationship with a young Jewish girl and her family who are refugees from Germany. This interaction enriches the narrative, bringing to life the broader impact of the war on individuals from different backgrounds. Henley’s novel skillfully balances the portrayal of the wider socio-economic shifts of the era with intimate character development. It highlights the accelerated transition into adulthood faced by Kate and her peers, forced by circumstances to confront realities far beyond their years. This aspect of the story offers a poignant commentary on the loss of innocence and the enduring effects of war on the psyche of young individuals.
Henley’s narrative shines in its ability to make the experiences of war relatable to readers who may not have firsthand knowledge of such events. The detailed descriptions of day-to-day survival, from rationing to the construction of bomb shelters, lend a credible and immersive quality to the story.
Kate’s War is both an emotional journey and a captivating historical piece, vividly painting a picture of the era it represents. Its blend of historical authenticity and deep character exploration makes it an engaging read for enthusiasts of historical fiction.
Pages: 296 | ISBN : 978-1647426149
