#80 - Jaclyn Goldis on 'The Main Character': Murder on the Orient Express
Release Date: 07/30/2024
#109 - Revolutionary War Mystery Meets Modern Cyber Warfare
Books & Looks
A mysterious Revolutionary War coin, modern cyber terrorism, and a shadowy organization known as the Liberty Unit converge in this groundbreaking techno-thriller that bridges America's past and present. Join Books and Looks for an in-depth review of "Going Dark" by George K. Mehok, a stunning debut novel that weaves together historical intrigue and contemporary cyber warfare. When NSA analyst Paul Knox inherits a mysterious coin from the Revolutionary War, he becomes entangled in a centuries-old fight to protect America from those who would destroy it from within. Written by a former...
info_outline
#108 - The Forgotten Women Who Made Mountain Climbing History
Books & Looks
In 1970, six women defied societal expectations and brutal conditions to become the first all-female team to summit North America's highest peak. This is their remarkable story.Author Cassidy Randall uncovers the incredible journey of the "Denali Damsels" who faced -30° temperatures, deadly storms, and a skeptical climbing community to make mountaineering history. Through intimate journals and long-buried accounts, discover how these trailblazing women proved that the "fairer sex" could conquer one of the world's most challenging peaks. Join us for this fascinating interview about "30 Below,"...
info_outline
#107 - The Arctic: It’s More than a Sea
Books & Looks
Explore the surprising history of U.S. interest in Greenland and the Arctic's rising geopolitical importance. Why has America tried to buy Greenland multiple times? Join us as we dive deep into the Arctic's past and present with Mary Thompson-Jones, author of 'America in the Arctic.' Discover how climate change and global powers are reshaping this crucial region. We'll explore historical attempts to acquire Greenland, the strategic implications of a melting Arctic, and what it means for international relations. This episode reveals the hidden battles for the Arctic and why it matters more than...
info_outline
#106 - Science vs Religion: The Trial That Changed America
Books & Looks
Can a single trial change the course of a nation? In 1925, the answer was yes. The Scopes Monkey Trial pitted evolution against creation, science against religion, and two of America's greatest orators against each other. Author Debbie Levy takes us beyond the courtroom drama to explore the deeper cultural battle that still rages today. Is teaching evolution a dangerous idea? And what happens when a small town becomes the center of a national firestorm? The answers may surprise you. Links: "A Dangerous Idea" Book: Debbie Levy Website: Watch on YouTube: _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find...
info_outline
#105 - Last of Their Kind: 10 Cultural Traditions About to Vanish
Books & Looks
What do an Inca bridge master, a Sardinian pasta maker, and a Taiwanese movie poster painter have in common? They're among the last of their kind, preserving cultural traditions that may soon vanish forever. In this thought-provoking episode, author Elliot Stein takes us on a journey across the globe to meet these "Custodians of Wonder" and confront the question: What do we lose when ancient crafts and knowledge fade away? Links: "Custodians of Wonder" Book: Eliot Stein Website: Watch on YouTube: _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.
info_outline
#104 - They Starved Protecting Seeds: WWII's Unknown Heroes
Books & Looks
What would you sacrifice to protect the future of the world's food supply? In war-torn Leningrad, a group of unsung heroes faced this very question. As Hitler's forces closed in and starvation set in, these brave scientists guarded a forbidden garden—the world's first seed bank. Discover the untold story of their harrowing struggle and ultimate sacrifice in this interview with Simon Parkin, author of "The Forbidden Garden." Links: "The Forbidden Garden" Book: Simon Parkin Website: Watch on YouTube: _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.
info_outline
#103 - The Dazzling Rise & Fall of Evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson
Books & Looks
Claire Hoffman discusses her new book "Sister Sinner" about the remarkable life of 1920s evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson. Hoffman shares key insights into McPherson's meteoric rise to fame, her pioneering use of media, her mysterious disappearance, and the fascinating relationship with her mother Minnie. Discover the gripping story of one of the most influential and controversial religious figures of the early 20th century. Links: "Sister Sinner" Book: Claire Hoffman Website: Watch on YouTube: _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.
info_outline
#102 - Discovering Provence: Food, History & Joie de Vivre with Carole Bumpus
Books & Looks
Planning a trip to Provence or dreaming of a French getaway? This episode is your ultimate guide! Author Carole Bumpus shares her hard-won wisdom and insider tips for making the most of your Provençal adventure. From navigating markets and menus to uncovering local history and culture, Carole's stories will inspire you to embrace the region's joie de vivre. Plus, discover practical advice for sailing the Mediterranean coast and finding the best food experiences off the beaten path. Links: "Adventures on Land and Sea" Book: Carole Bumpus Website: Watch on YouTube: _ Produced by Podcast...
info_outline
#101 - From Wall Street to Whodunnit: An Author's Tale of Tenacity
Books & Looks
Today I Interview Robert Jackowski, author of the self-published mystery novel "Murder at the Hall". Robert shares his journey from a 40-year career on Wall Street to becoming a first-time novelist in retirement. He discusses the inspiration behind his book, the challenges and rewards of self-publishing, and offers advice for aspiring writers on staying motivated and leveraging life experiences in their work. Links: "Murder at the Hall" Book: Watch on YouTube: _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.
info_outline
#100 - The Untold Story of Prohibition's Leading Ladies with Gioia Diliberto
Books & Looks
You think you know the story of Prohibition, but do you know the women behind it all? In "Firebrands", Gioia Diliberto uncovers the hidden history of four trailblazing women who fought for and against Prohibition. From the fierce ambition of Mabel Walker Willebrandt to the unlikely activism of society figure Pauline Sabin, these women wielded unprecedented power and influence. Discover how their intertwined lives and rivalries shaped an era and rewrote the rules for women in politics. Links: "Firebrands" Book: Gioia Diliberto Website: Watch on YouTube: _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find...
info_outlineToday we sit down with Jaclyn Goldis, the author of the thrilling new novel "The Main Character." Goldis, who previously practiced law in Chicago, has been dreaming of becoming a full-time writer since childhood. Her earlier works include the historical fiction "When We Were Young" and the thriller "The Chateau."
Book Spotlight: "The Main Character":
"The Main Character" is a gripping mystery set on the luxurious Orient Express, following Rory, a disgraced news anchor turned main character in a famous author's latest novel. As Rory embarks on a journey from Italy's Cinque Terre to Positano, she finds herself entangled in a web of secrets, lies, and murder.
Discussed in this Episode:
- The unique writing process of the fictional author Ginevra X, who hires real people as inspiration for her characters
- Goldis' inspiration for the book, including a fascinating article about the revamped Orient Express
- The challenges of writing an ensemble cast and creating distinct character perspectives
- Goldis' personal connection to the story, drawing from her father's experiences as a Jewish refugee from the Soviet Union
- The art of crafting a compelling murder mystery and keeping readers guessing until the end
- Goldis' thoughts on adapting her novels for television or film and her upcoming thriller "The Safari"
Tune in for an engaging conversation about the twists and turns of "The Main Character," Goldis' journey from lawyer to author, and the real-life experiences that shape her captivating stories. Whether you're a fan of mysteries, thrillers, or simply love a good read, this episode offers fascinating insights into the world of writing and the creation of a page-turning novel.
Links:
- "The Main Character": https://amzn.to/3ymAjnB
- Jaclyn Goldis Website: https://www.jaclyngoldis.com/
- Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/suCdYIp9tzE
_
Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.