Desideratum: Recent Episodes
Theresa Bakken
Desideratum is a Latin word meaning 'things that are desired as essential'. The Desideratum Podcast celebrates storytelling as an essential thing - the art of telling and the journey of listening. Join me audiobook narrator Theresa Bakken and my wordsmith friends for new episodes every Friday showcasing the talents of authors and narrators. Listen to conversations with writers and scenes from their audiobooks. Tune in to hear an artist you love or to find your new favorite storyteller. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/theresa-bakken/support
In this episode of Desideratum, host Theresa Bakken sits down with author Jennifer Oko to discuss her latest novel, "Just Emilia." Set in a Washington, DC elevator, the story brings together three women (ages 17, 47, and 77) at pivotal moments in their lives, forcing them to confront a shared trauma and unravel the threads connecting their past, present, and future.
Jennifer shares the inspiration behind the novel, the challenges of writing across generations, and the personal connections that shaped her characters. The conversation explores themes of memory, responsibility, aging, and the enduring impact of trauma, as well as the unique setting of DC and the symbolism of the ginkgo tree.
Listeners will enjoy insights into the writing process, the realities of publishing with an independent press, and the essential role of storytelling and art in our lives. Whether you're a fan of literary fiction, stories about family and self-discovery, or simply love hearing from passionate storytellers, this episode offers a thoughtful and heartfelt look at what it means to grow, heal, and embrace each new chapter.
Connect with Jennifer Oko at www.JenniferOko.com and get the rest of the story in "Just Emilia" from www.Regal House Publishing.com
In this episode, we explore the remarkable story behind "The Cure for Women: Dr. Mary Putnam Jacobi and the Challenge to Victorian Medicine that Changed Women’s Lives Forever." Host Theresa Bakken is joined by author Lydia Reeder and audiobook narrator Sara Sheckells to discuss the life and legacy of Dr. Mary Putnam Jacobi—a pioneering scientist and physician who broke barriers for women in medicine during the 19th century.
Key Highlights:
- Mary Putnam Jacobi’s Journey: From a publisher’s daughter in New York to a trailblazing doctor, Jacobi overcame societal and institutional barriers, becoming a force in both science and women’s rights.
- Historical Context: The episode delves into the challenges women faced in accessing education and medical training, the suffrage movement, and the prevailing (often harmful) medical theories about women’s health.
- Scientific Breakthroughs: Jacobi’s research debunked myths about women’s bodies, especially regarding menstruation and fertility, and helped introduce evidence-based medicine to America.
- Personal Connections: Lydia Reeder shares how her own family history inspired her research, while Sara Sheckells reflects on the importance of telling women’s stories and the parallels between Jacobi’s era and today.
- Broader Impact: The conversation touches on the collective efforts of women in history, the importance of public education, and the ongoing relevance of Jacobi’s courage and scientific rigor.
- Audiobook Sample: Listeners hear a vivid scene from Jacobi’s youth, capturing her awe and inspiration as she peers through a microscope—a moment that set her on her groundbreaking path.
Get The Cure for Women audiobook from Libro.fm
https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=25361&awinaffid=970873&ued=https%3A%2F%2Flibro.fm%2Faudiobooks%2F9781666681376
Colorado Humanities Colorado Book Awards
https://coloradohumanities.org/programs/colorado-book-awards/
Sara Sheckells narrator
https://sarasounds.com/
Lydia Reeder author
https://lydiareeder.com/
This is a story about getting focused and creative. It's a non-fiction handbook and guidebook to your brain and what current brain science tells us about how to thrive, relax and even work better with others. The author is a cognitive scientist intent on turning good science into good life strategies. I am so excited to feature the audiobook SHARP 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science by Therese Huston on this Desideratum. Thanks to the team at publisher Dreamscape Media including Producer Pete Cross and Editor Cody Stephenson. And, thanks to this episode’s sponsor Pozotron (the audiobook prep and proofing service I use on every single audiobook project I work on).
Here’s an affiliate link to Libro dot fm to get the SHARP audiobook with all its science based brain hacks. Here’s a link to the episode sponsor Pozotron. And, here’s the link to the late Reverend Frederick Buchner profile on PBS. I hope like me you will find ways to support PBS and NPR at your local level. As always, thanks for being here. Thanks for listening.
This is a story about a robot. Annie Bot was created to be the perfect companion and girlfriend for her human owner Doug. She's designed to adapt and learn to get better at serving and meeting his needs. It's a story about what and how she learns. You follow her to her tune up appointments with technicians, you ride a bike with her, and feel her sentience and consciousness grow even while you are continually reminded she's a robot and needs to plug into a charger regularly.
On this episode of Desideratum we're talking about the disarmingly, provocative, edgy novel Annie Bot with author Sierra Greer and narrator Jennifer Jill Araya. Jennifer is an Audie award winning narrator - with incredible range and skill you will hear in the audiobook samples. And, author Sierra Greer has been racking up the awards for this book. Annie Bot just won the Arthur C. Clarke Award which is an award started by and named for the author of the 2001 space Odysessy. It's a yearly award. Annie Bot is the 39th winner. Back in 1987, Margaret Atwood's The Handmaids Tale won the Arthur C Clarke. Annie Bot was also named a Best Book of the Year by Scientific American, Harper's Bazaar and NPR - a Best Science Fiction and Fantasy Book of the Year by the Washington Post and Elle.
I hope you enjoy meeting these comfort zone pushing, deep thinking and award winning storytellers as much as I did.
Jennifer's websites:
https://www.starvingartistnomore.com/https://www.jenniferjillaraya.com/
Sierra's website:
https://www.sierragreerwriter.com/
Libro.fm Affiliate Link directly to the Annie Bot audiobook:
https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=25361&awinaffid=970873&ued=https%3A%2F%2Flibro.fm%2Faudiobooks%2F9780063312722
Empathy, Dreams, and Breaking Barriers: The Story Behind 'Sideline Confidential'
In this episode, author Brooke Bentley and renowned narrator Julia Whelan talk about their collaboration on the audiobook 'Sideline Confidential.' Brooke shares how her real-life experiences as a sports reporter for the NFL informed the creation of her protagonist, Blake, who navigates the challenges of a male-dominated industry. Julia discusses her new venture, Audiobrary, a revolutionary platform for audiobook listeners and narrators. Both women explore themes of empathy, personal growth, and the importance of staying true to one's unique vision. The episode includes a reading from 'Sideline Confidential,' showcasing the powerful storytelling that ties their conversation together.
00:00 A Dream Job in the NFL
00:41 Meeting the Narrator Julia Whelan
02:10 Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry
03:00 Brooke's Real-Life Experiences
05:04 The Power of Storytelling in Sports
08:15 Universal Themes of Women in Male-Dominated Spaces
13:58 Julia Whelan's Audiobook Industry Insights
24:16 The Journey from Screenplay to Book
25:01 Character Development and Themes
26:32 Balancing Career and Personal Life
27:16 Writing Process and Achievements
29:40 Redefining Dreams and Success
38:37 Empathy and Storytelling
42:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Helpful links:
https://www.brookebentley.com/
https://audiobrary.com/
https://theresabakkennarrator.com/
This is a story about a young woman, a small town wedding party planner, whose curiosity and gut instincts lead to some amateur sleuthing and some shenanigans. We're talking about the audio book Party Planning Can Be Murder, and our conversation, like the book, starts off talking about funerals. You're gonna hear why funerals have made their way into so many of this author's stories.
You'll also hear about her favorite part of the writing process. It's this aha moment she gets sometimes late in the story. And, you'll find out why a Viking is an integral part of her own life story. I hope you enjoy this conversation with Kerry Ann King, also known as Kerry Schafer. As much as I did.
Here's how to find out more about Kerry:
https://allthingskerry.com/
Here's the link to get the audiobook:
https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=25361&awinaffid=970873&ued=https%3A%2F%2Flibro.fm%2Faudiobooks%2F9781666692297
This is a story full of secrets and surprises and suspense. In one of the first scenes, it's 2018, and you are stumbling through a snowstorm with an art appraiser who might just be freezing to death. You're not sure. Again and again, author Debra Spark caught me off guard and drew me in. She pulled together a storyline about a teenage boy sent to an abusive boarding school in the 1970s (based on a real school she researched). She ties that storyline back to the art appraiser's own messy relationship with her teenage son today, and to an art theft and mystery that the appraiser gets sucked into. The art mystery spirals around these three valuable portrait paintings of children from the 1930s.
It wasn't easy for me to talk to Debra about her work without spoilers for you, but we did it and I hope you'll be intrigued enough after listening to seek out the rest of the story. The novel is called Discipline, and this is my conversation with author Debra Spark on the Desideratum Podcast.
This is a story set in an inhospitable land, where the characters are struggling to find a home for the living and a place to bury their dead.
We're talking about the novel No Place to Bury the Dead with audiobook narrator Maria McCann.
Maria is a Los Angeles native, a graduate of the UCLA School of Theater, Film & Television, who’s appeared in dozens of films and television shows, such as Lucifer, Shameless and Grey’s Anatomy. She also works as an acting coach. I’ve personally had the delight of being coached by her. But, maybe my favorite thing about her - as you’ll hear - is that Maria is an open book and very fun to listen to!
I hope you find Maria’s commitment to joy as contagious as I did, and that you want to hear more of her voice in your ears. I want to thank you Harper Audio for sharing the audio samples from No Place to Bury the Dead by Karina Sainz Borgo, translated by Elizabeth Bryer. If you want to listen to the rest of the story,here's an affiliate link to the audiobook marketplace Libro.fm. I partner with Libro.fm because they support local bookstores. When you buy your audiobooks from them you can pick a local to you indie bookstore to support with every purchase.
Thanks for listening!
Step into the world of 1917 with author Donna Alward's debut historical fiction, "When the World Fell Silent." This gripping tale explores the lives of two distinct women, Nora and Charlotte, against the backdrop of the Halifax explosion—an event that reshaped a city and its people. Known for her success in romance, Donna takes on the challenge of weaving historical facts with compelling character arcs, creating a story that is as much about love and community as it is about tragedy.
Join us as Donna shares her journey from romance to historical fiction, the serendipity that led her there, and the detailed research behind this novel. Discover how she brings to life the experiences of these two women—one a nurse, the other a war widow—each navigating the societal expectations of their time. Listen to how the Halifax explosion, the largest manmade explosion before the atomic bomb, becomes a pivotal element in their stories.
Hear excerpts from the audiobook, narrated by Ivana Rakic and Laurence Bouvard, as they capture the essence of Halifax and its resilient women. Explore the themes of motherhood, trauma, and the power of community through Donna's insightful storytelling. With a backdrop of historical events, this episode delves into the philosophical questions of destiny and self-determination, leaving us with a sense of hope amidst adversity.
If you enjoyed the audiobook snippets and want to experience the full story, consider supporting local bookstores by purchasing the audiobook through Libro.fm. Follow our affiliate link to support both this podcast and a bookstore of your choice with every purchase.
Thanks for listening!
https://desideratumpodcast.com/
https://donnajonesalward.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@stepintothestorybooks
00:00 Author Donna Allward writes historical fiction set in 1917
03:09 You're telling the story through two main characters, Nora and Charlotte
06:38 The Halifax explosion is at the heart of this story
07:15 The Halifax explosion was the largest man made explosion in history before the atom bomb
10:42 You write about eye injuries caused by Halifax explosion in historical fiction
15:11 One of the other things that I wanted to talk about these two women is motherhood
17:44 Ivana Rakic narrates the audiobook from Charlotte's Awakening
20:08 When we were choosing narrators, I was concerned about the accent
22:06 The narrator is Laurence Bouvard, originally from Boston, Massachusetts
26:42 You talk about how you gravitate towards serendipities in your book
31:10 We dug into some stuff that I haven't talked about on any podcast before
31:54 Dealing with trauma in 1917 is very different than how we deal with it today
Show notes created by https://headliner.app
The Codger And The Sparrow is a story about an old man, a teenage boy and the trouble they get into. It's a friendship that at first you will not quite understand and yet totally be cheering for!
Author Scott Semegran shares the inspiration behind the novel, which stemmed from a vivid image he had during the stressful days of the pandemic. He envisioned an older man and a teenage boy, vastly different in age and background, yet sharing a comfortable camaraderie as they drove together in a car. This image sparked a story that explores the deep and often humorous bond between friends.
One of the highlights of our conversation was Scott's approach to character development. He is a keen observer of people, and this is reflected in the rich, detailed descriptions of his characters.
Narrator Brian Craig, who has primarily worked on non-fiction before this, found a deep connection with the characters. His narration was praised in AudioFile Magazine for its "perfect mix of wonder, empathy, and enthusiasm", bringing Scott's characters to life in a way that moved even the author to tears.
One of the most touching aspects of the story is the unique vehicle they use on their quest – a hot pink hot rod that has its own backstory, inspired by Scott's late father-in-law.
I hope you enjoyed getting to know author Scott Semegran and narrator Brian Craig as much as I did. If you enjoyed the audiobook samples published by Vibrance Press, I suggest you listen to the rest of the story on Libro.fm. Here's an affiliate link to purchase the audiobook that also supports this podcast. Libro.fm is running a 'Shop small, Shop local Promotion'. So, you can get three audiobooks for the price of one when you start a new Libro.fm membership with the code SMALL. You can chose a local bookstore near you to benefit from every purchase you make. I think you should start with Scott Semegran's The Codger And The Sparrow.
Thanks for listening!
In this episode, we delve into a poignant summer romance that transcends time and societal boundaries. Join us as we explore the intricate layers of "All the Flowers of the Mountain" with author Christina Holbrook. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque lake, this story follows the love between a local boy and a girl from an affluent family, unraveling the secrets and uncertainties that linger long after their summer together.
Christina Holbrook opens up about her personal connection to the story, sharing how her family history and her own experiences have influenced her writing. We discuss the themes of art, nature, and personal growth that permeate the novel, and you'll hear an exclusive snippet from the audiobook.
One of the most compelling aspects of our conversation is Christina's candid discussion about her serious illness and how it has reshaped her perspective on life and writing. Her insights into the importance of connection, both in storytelling and in life, are profoundly moving.
Don't miss this heartfelt episode that not only celebrates a beautiful love story but also delves into the deeper, essential things that make life meaningful.
Thanks to Walker Vreeland Productions for the audiobook sample and to Christina Holbrook for sharing her journey with us. You can find more about Christina and purchase the audiobook through the links in the show notes.
As always, thanks for listening.
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Show notes created by https://headliner.app
https://www.walkervreelandproductions.com/
https://christinaholbrook.com/
https://theresabakkennarrator.com/
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This is a story about a family on the Lower East Side of Manhattan a hundred years ago. Their lives in the densely populated tenements offer a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of immigrant life in early 20th-century America. We’re talking to author Gail Lehrman about her novel Across Seward Park.
I found so many essential things in this conversation. For me this is not just a chat about a historical fiction; it's a mirror reflecting our own times, our own challenges, and our own capacity for greatness. In her storytelling, Gail Lehrman explores the potency of words as tools for persuasion and instigation. She delves into the conflicts that arise when ideology meets practicality, and she explores the delicate balance between self-interest and altruism. I hope listening to this conversation and the audio excerpt will inspire you to seek out the rest of the story in Across Seward Park. Thanks for listening.
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Ever wondered what makes a story both romantic and riotously funny? This episode invites you into the minds of a creative couple who turned a series of "what ifs" into a comedic and heartfelt narrative. Learn how they intertwined their personal experiences with a fictional couple's chaotic journey, reflecting on the deep connections and empathy that arise from shared struggles. As they dissect their characters' misadventures and moments of empathy, you'll be enticed to explore the audiobook that brings us closer to understanding the complexities of love.
We’re talking about the romantic comedy Emergency Contact with co-writers New York Times bestselling author Lauren Layne and her real life husband Anthony LeDonne.
Thanks to Pozotron and BlackStone Publishing for sponsoring this episode. The audiobook scenes from Emergency Contact in this episode come from BlackStone Director and Producer Jesse Bickford and Kyle Willoughby. The narrators are Tim Paige and Brianna Cohen.
Thanks for listening.
https://www.pozotron.com/
https://www.blackstonepublishing.com/
https://www.briannacohen.com/about
https://timpaige.lpages.co/ttp-welcome-page/
https://www.laurenlayne.com/
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This is a mystical story about a magical circus. Not the kind of magic that involves pulling rabbits out of hats, but the kind where individuals' inner talents manifest into genuine magical abilities—known as sparks. These sparks choose to use their gifts not for conquest but to inspire and bring joy to those who need it most. But, this story is not all whimsy and light. This historical fantasy takes place in the hopeful but ominous years between World War 1 and World War 2. We’re talking about the audiobook for The First Bright Thing with narrator Petrea Burchard and author JR Dawson.
You’re going to hear author JR Dawson (Jen) open up about her personal experiences with theater, which served as an outlet for her creativity and weirdness. She speaks passionately about how theater education validates and how it influenced her characters and setting in this debut novel.
You'll also hear from narrator Petrea Burchard about her performance and how she connected to this magical story. She and Jen both gush about her co-narrator's (Tim Campbell) performance too. You'll hear a clip from Tim voicing the dark Circus King.
Thanks to all the fine folks at Tor Publishing Group including producer Steve Wagner for sharing the spellbinding clips and for bringing The First Bright Thing audiobook to life. I hope you’ll want to listen to the rest of the story wherever you get your audiobooks. When you buy your audiobook from libro.fm you can can chose a local book store to support and when you follow this affiliate link you also support this pod.
I also want to sincerely thank this episode’s sponsor Pozotron. Pozotron provides fantastic services for audio artists and producers like me. I use Pozotron for prepping and proofing the audiobooks I narrate. I use exactly what I need each month through their subscription service. You can sign up for a free demo of all they offer at pozotron.com.
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This is a story about a woman using all her abilities to complete a spy mission and also get exactly what she wants. We’re talking to Helen Day about the sexy and determined characters she narrated as Hedra Knight for the Regency Romance The Duke in Question by Amalie Howard. I loved learning how Helen physically gets into character, how she performed so many different action and spicy scenes, and how performing world tours with Cirque du Soleil was part of her storytelling journey. Thanks to Dreamscape Media you’ll hear several fun moments from the audiobook.I want to thank the Colorado Sun for shining their light on author Amalie Howard’s work. I listen to the Daily Sun Up podcast and on Sundays I check out the SunLit features on authors put together by editor Kevin Simpson. You can check it out at coloradosun.org or look for the Daily Sun Up wherever you found this podcast. The Duke in Question was a Colorado Book Award finalist in the Romance category. I love that Colorado Humanities celebrates storytellers in my home state. You can find the winners and finalists in all the genre categories at coloradohumanities.org. A big thank you to author Amalie Howard, narrator Helen Day reading as Hedra Knight, and all the fine folks at Dreamscape Media for bringing The Duke in Question audiobook to life and sponsoring this episode. Dreamscape Media’s catalog includes bestselling audiobooks, children’s educational videos, prominent independent authors, and much much more They strive to publish and distribute titles that both inspire and entertain listeners, readers, and viewers around the world. I’m honored that they support this podcast and I hope you’ll connect with them. Visit them at dreamscapepublishing.com to sign up for their weekly newsletter that has audiobook news, deals and giveaways. As always, thank you for listening.https://coloradohumanities.org/programs/colorado-book-awards/https://coloradosun.com/sunlit/https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com/https://www.instagram.com/littlebird7/?hl=enhttps://amaliehoward.com/--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theresa-bakken/support
This is a thriller. It’s the story of an FBI agent and a homicide detective working together to catch a serial killer with a chilling perspective on killing.
You'll hear narrator Erin deWard bringing all the chills and characters to life in your ear. We'll talk about why and how she does it, and you'll hear author Leanne Kale Sparks talk about how she maps out and finds the 'woulda, coulda, shoulda' in her crime stories.
Thanks to Dreamscape Media you’ll hear several tense moments from the audiobook. Dreamscape is an independent, award winning audiobook publisher. I’m honored that they support this podcast and I hope you’ll visit them at dreamscapepublishing.com where you can sign up for a weekly newsletter that has audiobook deals and giveaways.
Thanks to The Colorado Sun for shining their light on Leanne Kale Sparks work. I listen to the Daily Sun Up podcast and on Sundays I check out the SunLit features on authors put together by editor Kevin Simpson. Check it out at coloradosun.org and look for the Daily Sun Up wherever you found this podcast.
The Wrong Woman won the Colorado book award in the thriller category. I love that Colorado Humanities celebrates storytellers in my home state. You can find the winners and finalists in all the genre categories at coloradohumanities.org.
A big thank you to author Leanne Kale Sparks, narrator Erin deWard, audiobook Producer Erick Black and all the fine folks at Dreamscape media for bringing The Wrong Woman audiobook to life and sponsoring this episode. Dreamscape Media’s catalog includes bestselling audiobooks, children’s educational videos, prominent independent authors, and much much more. I connected with author Leanne Kale Sparks through Kim Weiss at PR by the Book. You'll find links for all these great folks below.
As always, thank you for listening.
https://coloradohumanities.org/programs/colorado-book-awards/
Colorado Humanities home of the Colorado Book Award
https://www.erindeward.com/
Erin deWard
https://www.leannekalesparks.com/
Leanne Kale Sparks
https://coloradosun.com/sunlit/
The Colorado Sun
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com/
Dreamscape Media
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This is a story about a beautiful, powerful woman who captured the imagination of historical fiction author Shana Abè.
We’re talking about Arabella Huntington, the intriguing woman at the heart of An American Beauty: A Novel of the Gilded Age Inspired by the True Story of Arabella Huntington Who Became the Richest Woman in the Country.
This week we return to a favorite author of mine. Shana Abè first wowed me with her story about the 2nd Mrs Astor who was widowed by John Jacob Astor as she survived their honeymoon aboard the Titanic. In Shana’s new novel An American Beauty, she introduces us to another remarkable woman from history. The way she brings Arabella Huntington’s life into focus got me thinking about how we can all invent and reinvent ourselves.
I hope spending time with Shana Abe made you as happy as it did me. A big thanks to Shana, her publisher Kensington Press, her incredibly talented narrator Gail Shalan, Gail’s director Hilary Eurich and all the fine folks at Tantor Audio for bringing An American Beauty’s audiobook to life.
https://www.gailshalan.com/
https://www.shanaabe.com/
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This is a murder mystery. It's the second book in a 1920s series starring the prim, poor but clever, Annalee Spain - a fan of Sherlock Holmes - who solves murder and crime in Colorado's dangerous Klan era.
We’re talking with Colorado author Patricia Raybon about race and faith, why we love a good mystery, and how transparency is essential.
I want to thank The Colorado Sun for shining their light on Patricia’s work. I listen to the Sun's podcast called The Daily Sun-Up, and every Sunday I check out their SunLit feature for author spotlights. Sunlit editor Kevin Simpson often talks to authors on The Daily Sun-ups Friday podcast. Look for it wherever you’re listening to this podcast. Patricia is part of a panel discussion at the Colorado Sun’s SunFest ideas conference this week. You can get more info at coloradosun.com .One more big thank you to her publisher Tyndale House, the audio publisher One Audiobooks for the excerpts from Double the Lies. And, as always, thank you for listening.
https://www.patriciaraybon.com/
this is a link to Patricia's website
https://coloradosun.com/sunfest/
this is a link for the Colorado Sun's SunFest conference
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This is a real life story set in a vast land, the San Luis Valley of Colorado. It’s a huge flat prairie flanked by mountains, and it's far off the beaten path. Author Ted Conover takes us there in this Desideratum.
A desideratum is an essential thing and this story got me thinking about lots of essential things - like wide open spaces, what to do with a rattlesnake, the peace you find in silence, and the need for connection.
Ted Conover is perhaps best known for spending a year as a prison guard at the maximum security prison Sing Sing in New York. The book he wrote about that experience was called Newjack and it earned a National Book Critics Circle Award for Nonfiction and made Ted a Pulitzer Prize Finalist. His work expands and deepens what we think of as Journalism. He submerges himself in often uncomfortable situations and then takes readers along with him.
Today we’re talking about his latest immersive experience and book called Cheap Land Colorado. In his observation of small details side by side with his big picture perspectives, he paints a very complete picture with his own voice as narrator in your ear.
I hope you enjoy getting to know Ted Conover as much as I have. I want to thank The Colorado Sun for shining their light on Ted’s work. I listen to the Sun's podcast called The Daily Sun-Up, and every Sunday I check out their SunLit feature for author spotlights. Sunlit editor Kevin Simpson often talks to authors on The Daily Sun-ups Friday podcast. Check it out at coloradosun.com or wherever you're listening to this podcast.
Ted will be in Denver for the Colorado Sun’s SunFest ideas conference. Here's a link for tickets: https://coloradosun.com/sunfest/
And here's a link to the La Puente organization Ted volunteers with so you find out more about the good work they do. https://lapuentehome.org/
One more big thank you to the audio publisher Random House Audio for the excerpt from Cheap Land Colorado. And, as always, thank you for listening.
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This is a story about a young woman running away and finding her home. It begins with the moment she decides to run, when she faces a painful truth about her boyfriend.
We’re talking about A LIGHT IN THE FOREST - a Colorado Book Award Finalist - on this Desideratum.
A Desideratum is an essential thing. I’m audiobook narrator Theresa Bakken and I think this story is full of essential things. This week we’re talking about being a work in progress with author Melissa Payne whose new novel A Light in the Forest got us talking about small towns, and pigs, and intuition.
I want to thank the Colorado Sun for shining their light on Melissa, I listen to the Sun's podcast called The Daily Sun-Up.. It's a great way to start your day if you’re curious about Colorado culture, history, news of all kinds delivered to your ears. Then every Sunday I check out the SunLit feature at coloradosun.com for author spotlights and local independent bookstore recommendations. SunLit editor Kevin Simpson often talks to authors on The Daily Sun-up's Friday podcasts. Check it out at coloradosun.com or wherever your'e listening to this podcast.
Also - a big thank you to the author Melissa Payne, the talented and authentic voice of narrator Kay Eluvian, the audiobook publisher Brilliance audio, and the audiobook production team at Deyan audio Devon Hammond and Yanni Caldas for their work on A Light in the Forest. And, as always thank you for listening.
https://coloradohumanities.org/programs/colorado-book-awards/
https://www.melissapayneauthor.com/
author Melissa Payne's website link
https://www.kayeluvian.com/audiobooks/
narrator Kay Eluvian's website link
https://coloradosun.com/category/sunlit/sunlit-interviews/
a Link to the Colorado Sun website's SunLit page
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Have you heard the story about the author who was in a grocery store, set up with a little table and a folding chair, selling his books one book at a time... when something life changing happened.
We’re talking about the crazy experience author Shawn Warner is having with his debut novel Leigh Howard and the Ghosts of Simmons Pierce Manor - how a small act of kindness from a stranger set off a ripple effect of good will for Shawn. You’re going to hear about his YA book featuring a girl and some ghosts who solve a murder mystery. You’ll hear some of his favorite scenes from the audiobook (read by me for Black Rose Writing and Podium Audio). And, Shawn talks openly and honestly about ADD, his military service, and his greatest adventure (his family!) on this Desideratum.
https://www.shawnwarner.com/
https://www.blackrosewriting.com/
https://podiumaudio.com/
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This is a story about a group of women in the late 1960’s. Their shared love of art and some unusual coincidences bring them together. Author Linda Rosen decided to anchor her fiction to a real event in New York City in 1970 that ended up being more relevant today than she first imagined. From Black Rose Writing, with the audiobook published by Tantor Audio, we're talking about The Emerald Necklace. You'll hear a scene from narrator Traci Odom who's narrated more than 300 audiobooks and whose narration style was described by AudioFile Magazine as "...one of high-quality invisibility. Her technique is sort of like air.. a crucial thing." I want to thank Grace Sammon for introducing me to Linda. Grace is the host of The Storytellers Radio Show and Podcast. She focuses on individuals who choose to leave their mark on the world through the art of story. I highly recommend you search for The Storytellers Podcast wherever you consume your pods. As always thanks for listening. https://www.traciodom.com/ https://www.linda-rosen.com/ https://www.gracesammon.net/
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This is a story about a woman who slips through time..
It's the day before Casey's 40th birthday, and her acting career and personal life are a disaster. Frantic to escape her own emptiness, she hops a plane to England and heads to the countryside to hide.
That’s when a lightning strike, a skidding car and a horse that might be magical send her through a gap in time to the Dark Ages.
We’re talking to author and narrator Petrea Burchard about her historical fantasy Camelot & Vine.
A big thank you to this episode’s sponsor Pozotron. I use Pozotron in my audiobook prep and proofing process to save time and ensure accuracy.. Their AI powered software suite cuts hours from the audiobook, voiceover and any scripted audio production process. You can sign up for a free demo of all they offer at pozotron.com.
Before her audiobook narration work won her an Earphones Award, Petrea had a diverse acting career in film, television and theater. She is best known for voicing the powerful and hilarious space pirate Ryoko Hakubi in the english language version of the 90's Japanese anime series “Tenchi Muyo!”. You can find all her current projects in the audiobook world and other fun facts at Petreaburchard.com
I hope you enjoyed spending some time with Petrea Burchard as much as I did. I hope you’ll listen to the rest of her audiobook Camelot & Vine. If you follow the affiliate link to Libro.fm when you purchase the audiobook you are also supporting this podcast.
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This is a story about a struggling writer who gets invited to a writing retreat. She's thrilled because it's a once in a lifetime opportunity with a famous horror novelist. The retreat takes place at a remote estate, where even the house has a dark and storied past. We’re talking about the NY Times bestseller The Writing Retreat, with author, therapist and creative coach Julia Bartz.
Thanks to Simon and Schuster Audio for providing the foreboding moments from the audiobook narrated by the wonderful and award winning Gail Shalan. https://www.gailshalan.com/
To hear the rest of the story, you can purchase the audiobook and support this podcast by following this link to Libro.fm where you can also select a local book store to benefit from your purchase.
Thanks to episode sponsor Pozotron. Here's a link to get a free demo of all the great ways they help audio storytellers.
And finally, here's a link to connect to Julia's latest news. https://www.juliabartz.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please interact in some way with the podcast - like, share, follow, subscribe, leave a review - wherever you listen.
Thanks!
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This is a story about a detective, a cold case forensics expert named Elise. But this isn’t just a cold case, crime solving detective story. This story begins with our detective caught in the middle of an active crime scene. She fires her weapon for the first time. She takes a man’s life to save another man. Then, the saved man disappears from the scene, and Elise is drawn to him looking for answers. What she finds when this man enters her life is a very dangerous game. We’re talking about Wendy Walker’s new thriller What Remains. You’ll hear how excited Wendy gets talking about the science of memory and the psychology of trauma recovery. I love how she balances the characters' back stories and psychology with the urgent, nail biting suspense of the plot. We also talk about how her narrators Gabra Zackman and Peter Ganim dramatically and subtly delivered the clues in the audiobook for What Remains. Supporting this episode with Wendy walker is BlackStone publishing. Blackstone is providing a discount code to listeners for 50% off the audiobook for What Remains. Another big thank you to Pozotron. They are a subscription service for audio storytellers like me. I use their audiobook prep and proofing tools, and their features for collaboration - which make working together on a project seamless, efficient and fun. You can sign up for a free demo of their system at https://www.pozotron.com/ Here is the code from Blackstone Publishing for a discounted listen. Go to https://www.downpour.com/ select the audiobook What Remains by Wendy Walker, click 'buy now' and apply the promo code BLACKSTONE50 for fifty percent off the audiobook. Thanks again to Blackstone, Pozotron and Wendy Walker for making this episode possible. I’m Theresa Bakken. Thank you for listening
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This is a story about movies - classic films - that a psychology professor at Yale University adored, explored and built a long standing popular college course around. Author and Professor Dr. James Charney brings you the Yale course that explores the portrayal of mental illness in films in his book Madness at the Movies. The audiobook is narrated by Golden Voice (too many awards to list, more than a thousand titles to his name) Grover Gardner. We’re talking about Grover's work on Madness at the Movies, as well as some of his other favorite projects. And, he also shares his insights on the audiobook industry, authors, auditions, building relationships, and the presence of AI. Thanks to this episode's sponsors: Pozotron is an audiobook prep and proofing subscription service that helps narrators and publishers do their jobs. If you’re an audio storyteller go to Pozotron.com, sign up for a free demo and tell them thanks for sponsoring this episode. And BlackStone Publishing, the independent publisher and producer of powerful page turners across all genres with new award winning authors and collectable classics. Blackstone is providing a discount code for listeners for 50% off the Madness at the Movies audiobook. Instructions: Go to Downpour.com, select the audiobook https://www.downpour.com/madness-at-the-movies?sp=756180
Click Buy Now
Click Apply Promo Code BLACKSTONE50 , enter code
Finish the checkout process
Download your title and enjoy!
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This is a scary story. A classic horror story - with a haunted house, a monster, and unflinching violence. But, there’s something else here too… we’re talking about Everything the Darkness Eats by Eric LaRocca with narrator Andrè Santana. This episode is sponsored by Dreamscape Media, an independent award-winning audiobook publisher. Dreamscape produces a wide range of titles from motivational self help to mysteries, thrillers and happily ever afters. This title is in the horror genre, but Andrè and I take good care of the listener in our conversation and we stay away from spoilers and triggers. I am excited for you to hear some of Andrè's narration - it's chilling. And, I loved hearing about his storytelling process and how he ended up in a box talking into a microphone. His exceptional narration work earned him a 2023 Audie Finalist. He is easy to connect with on social media and on his website Andreonthemic.com Please look for his work in many genres including the book we featured, Everything the Darkness Eats written by Eric LaRocca (a Bram Stoker Award nominated and Splatterpunk Award-winning Author). You can find more of Eric's scary stories on his website. Thanks again to Dreamscape and thank you for listening.
https://www.andreonthemic.com/ https://ericlarocca.com/ https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com/
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This is a story about a life - a beautiful life - lived across 4 countries, with struggle, multiple languages and loves. We’re talking about Elizabeth Graver’s new novel Kantika and we begin with home recordings she made decades ago with her grandmother Rebecca. You’ll also hear some of narrator Gail Shalan’s skillful and delightful narration. She is an incredible guide as the story takes us from Istanbul, to Barcelona, to Havana and New York. For her - Gail says - narrating Kantika was a meaningful act of generational healing and love. A special thank you to Kantika’s audiobook publisher and this episode’s sponsor - Dreamscape Media. Visit them at dreamscapepublishing.com for audiobook news, deals and updates on regular audiobook giveaways. You can see photos of the family members who inspired the characters in Kantika on Elizabeth's website elizabethgraver.com
https://elizabethgraver.com/ https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com/
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This is a story set in the Wild West in the early 1900’s. The story centers around a woman named Ruby who is living a mostly quiet and mostly lawful life… when out of the blue her past comes hustling into town and takes her and us on a journey filled with missteps and mayhem. We’re talking about KT Blakemore’s Wild-Willed Women of the West series - book one is called The Good Time Girls.
I hope you get on the road with The Good Time Girls and have as much fun as I did with dire circumstances, a mule named Theodore, and a bouquet of doubt named Verna. You can find them and all the other characters KT creates on her website. You might also know KT as Kim Taylor Blakemore. You can find all her storytelling at Kimtaylorblakemore.com A special thanks to our episode sponsor Dreamscape Media. Dreamscape audio productions are riveting and beautiful. They create accessible entertainment in a wide variety of genres. Please visit their website and connect to their newsletter for audiobook news and giveaways. And as always, thank you for listening. https://www.kimtaylorblakemore.com/ https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com/
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This is a story about a remarkable woman. She was trusted by American presidents and generals. Her impact on our nation can still be felt today. But, you’ve probably never heard of her, and you might never have if not for a high school history teacher. We’re talking about the first biography written about the incredible Anna Marie Rosenberg (appropriately titled The Confidante) by teacher and debut author Christopher C. Gorham on this Desideratum.Narrator Ann Richardson shines in non-fiction work like this. She’s won several Audiofile Earphone awards, and her performance of The Confidante earned her an Audie Finalist. I hope you enjoyed hearing Christopher talk about Anna Marie as much as I did.You can hear the rest of the audiobook, narrated by Ann Richardson at Libro.fm . Following the Libro.fm affiliate link supports this podcast. You can also use the podcast’s discount code DP20 to save 20 percent off your whole purchase on the publisher's website. I always learn something new from Kensington authors. Thanks to Ann Pryor at Kensington for connecting me to Christopher. Thanks to Tantor Audio for the moments from the audiobook. And, a special thank you to Pozotron for sponsoring this episode. Please reach out to me or visit the Pozotron website for more about how they help audio storytellers. As always, thank you for listening. affiliate link to Libro.fm https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/9780806542003/the-confidante/https://www.christophercgorham.com/the-confidantehttps://www.pozotron.com/--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theresa-bakken/support
This is a story about a family. It is a close up look at a father and daughter, at two sisters, at a husband and wife. But, it’s also this huge story about tradition and patriarchy and freedom. It felt like poetry to me at times.. and this conversation about it was so rich. We’re talking about In the Time of our History with author Susanne Pari on this Desideratum.
The narrator Mozhan Marnò is an Iranian-American film and television actress and a playwright. She speaks English, French, German, Farsi, and Spanish. She is known for her roles in The Blacklist, House of Cards, and Fleishman is in Trouble. She is also the voice of Mirabelle and Namira in the video game Elder Scrolls- Skyrim. This audiobook scene you'll hear is from the beginning of In The Time of Our History, written by Susanne Pari, and produced by Highbridge, a division of Recorded Books.
I hope you enjoyed getting to know Susanne Pari as much as I did. You can hear the rest of the audiobook and support this podcast and a local book store of your choice by following this affiliate link to Libro.fm You can also use the podcast’s discount code DP20 on the publisher's website kensingtonbooks.com to save 20 percent on this book and the whole Kensington library. I always find entertaining and enlightening reads at Kensington, and I like that going into their 5th decade of publishing, they are still a multigenerational family led business. Thanks to Ann Pryor at Kensington for connecting me to Susanne, and thank you for listening.
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This is a collection of 10 classic short stories written over a hundred years ago, brought together in a carefully curated anthology. Each story gives a feminine perspective on marriage - its role in society and the personal beauty and pain that can be found within its bonds. We’re talking about Marriage from the Feminine Perspective annotated, published and narrated by Christine Mascott. The anthology earned Christine an Audiofile Earphones Award and a coveted Audie Finalist in the Short Stories and Collections category. Listen to what led her to these public domain, royalty free, stories from the past in the first place and find out why she thinks they still have something to say today.
Find the audiobook here: https://www.amazon.com/Marriage-Feminine-Perspective-Classic-Stories/dp/B09MRVDZJL/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=
Our sponsor for this episode is Pozotron - the audio proofing platform designed to help narrators, proofers, and publishers produce more accurate and efficient audiobooks. Find out more and sign up for a free demo here: https://www.pozotron.com/
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This is a story about a girl growing up in San Francisco in the 1930’s - her family suffers one tragedy after another and she decides to escape the city and head to Yosemite…
Where she crosses paths with a real person in history - a Park Ranger named Enid Michael.
We’re talking about the historical fiction, The View From Half Dome, with author Jill Caugherty.
Jill shares how her storyline and characters evolved. It always fascinates me to hear how one idea built up from the last - how one thing leads to another. I also really liked hearing Jill explain contrast and its importance to this story.
The scene you’ll hear from the audiobook is young Izzy’s first real hike in Yosemite. She’s with Enid and Ansel and Virginia Adams. Thanks to the publisher Black Rose Writing for giving me the joy of narrating this story. And, thank you for listening. Remember when you enjoy a book in any format, please leave a review - reviews actively help with marketing and improve visibility and sales - plus it’s just nice.
https://www.jillcaugherty.com/
https://www.amazon.com/The-View-from-Half-Dome/dp/B0C3J9JPH4/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=
Full Transcription with time stamps available here:
https://otter.ai/u/z2o5nwxAu7vXc_XOb4bvFO7G-mQ?utm_source=copy_url
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This is a story about a young boy named Philbet. He’s growing up in the deep south in the 1960’s and ‘70’s. He loves cars and his grandaddy’s garden and an older boy named Knox. In this story, you see how Philbet hides himself and then finds himself. We’re talking about Red Clay Suzie, a fictionalized memoir written by Jeffrey Dale Lofton. Lofton is a natural storyteller and not just on the page. His voice has a timbre and a rhythm and accent that draws you in, and I felt like instead of asking questions, I just kept saying some version of 'tell me a story' and he would. We begin with him telling the story behind the story of his debut novel.Another great voice connected to Red Clay Suzie is the audiobook narrator Pete Cross - who Jeffrey was a big fan of and was so excited when he auditioned. Pete’s work has been recognized with a SOVAS, an Odyssey Award and an Audie. He’s a talented storyteller and I’m so grateful to Blackstone Publishing for sharing this scene with us.I hope you enjoyed getting to know Jeffrey as much as I did. Thanks again to the sponsor for this episode - Pozotron - and of course thank you for being here thanks for listening.Sponsor:https://www.pozotron.com/Narrator:https://petecrossvo.com/Author:https://www.jeffreydlofton.com/
Red Clay Suzie Audiobook
https://www.audible.com/pd/Red-Clay-Suzie-Audiobook/B0BFC47JJY?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp
Organizations mentioned by the author:https://www.thetrevorproject.org/strategic-plan/https://bornthisway.foundation/
Books mentioned by the author:
To Kill a Mockingbird https://www.audible.com/pd/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-Audiobook/B00K1HQVOQ?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp
Call Me by Your Namehttps://www.audible.com/pd/Call-Me-by-Your-Name-Audiobook/B071H4FK2Y?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp
Episode transcript and timestamps:https://otter.ai/u/EKPT8WfipuqHekgveT7zKI1L7nE?utm_source=copy_url
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This is a story set in what looks like a perfect neighborhood - rocking chairs on covered porches, manicured lawns and families looking out for each other. But in this story, the illusion of perfect families and close friendships fractures when a child goes missing. We’re talking about the novel The Perfect Neighborhood with author Liz Alterman. Liz made me laugh and think deeply. I loved her perspectives on rejection and serendipity. The scene you will hear from the audiobook is from one of my favorite narrators - Gail Shalan. The novel's suspense unfolds through five key perspectives, and the audiobook features five fantastic narrators. The audiobook was produced by Dreamscape.
I want to thank Dreamscape for sponsoring this episode. They are an independent, award winning audiobook publisher that produces a wide range of titles, including everything from motivational self-help to suspenseful mysteries like The Perfect Neighborhood. Their goal is to provide the best and most high-quality audiobooks to listeners everywhere. They would love to connect, so please visit them at dreamscapepublishing.com, where you can sign up for their weekly newsletter that has audiobook news, deals, and updates on their regular audiobook giveaways. You can also visit them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
Find more of Liz Alterman's storytelling here: https://www.lizalterman.com/And, for more from the audiobook publisher Dreamscape visit: Website: https://dreamscapepublishing.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DreamscapeAudioTwitter: https://twitter.com/DreamscapeaudioInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamscape_media/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dreamscape_media
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This is a story set firmly in Kentucky bluegrass - a story swirling around a retired history professor who finds herself in one murder mystery after another. We’re talking with the author of the Josiah Reynolds cozy mystery series Abigail Keam, and we begin our conversation with something she has in common with her main character… beekeeping.
While Death By Greed (Book 18 in the series) just released, you are going to hear the very beginning, the very first scene. We’re going back to book 1 page 1 - and there will be bees in this reading from Death by a Honeybee.
I hope you enjoy getting to know Abigail - hearing about her bees and her characters. You can find her active on all social media platforms as @abigailkeamauthor. I first met her through @wellreadmagazine. Thanks to Mandy Haynes for shining her light on new-to-me authors. And, as always, thank YOU for listening.
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This is a story about a string of murders - assassinations of media pundits. They were extreme peddlers of their party's agendas. Their murders feel politically motivated. Assigned to the case is a group of grizzled and green FBI detectives. We're talking about the crime novel Code Gray with narrator Champ Westwood on this Desideratum.
Listen as Champ reveals what he appreciates about author Benny Sims intent. Sims grain of sand that becomes a pearl as the story unfolds. Champ also explains his controversial process for prepping his audiobooks. And, you'll hear how his background in musical theater shapes his approach to the very intimate performance of audiobook narration.
I hope you have as much fun as I did getting to know Champ (he also narrates under the name Mike Eberhardt). Here's his website with all his narration and vo projects listed. https://www.superfunstudios.com/
As always, thanks for listening
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Narrator by Landon Beach is a mystery thriller that will have you asking - what just happened and whodunnit?! Listen as Landon describes how he got inside the head of this hot mess of a main character - an audiobook narrator. And, find out how Landon first met his real life narrator the legendary award winning Scott Brick. Congratulations to Scott on being an Audie 2023 Finalist for Best Male Narrator for this project. Visit www.landonbeachbooks.com for all his books and his newsletter.
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This is a story that begins with a lone singer recording original songs on cassette tapes for the author a long time ago. She remembers listening using the tape deck in her mama’s white Cutlass Supreme out at the edge of town where abandoned things and the music made her wonder.We’re talking with author J.C. Sasser (Jana) about her novel Gradle Bird on this Desideratum.Jana's southern tale has an incredible cast of characters .The title character is a 16 year old girl named Gradle being raised by her Grandpa. Then, there's a teenage boy named Sonny Joe who is a Siamese Fighting Fish aficionado. And there's Delvis Miles, a professional dumpster diver and a genius musician, whose mental health makes him both fragile and fierce. But we start our conversation with Jana herself, because she’s as intriguing as any of her characters.Throughout this novel there are three characters who commit serious crimes with dire consequences that haunt them. You’re going to hear a scene near the beginning of the book, that starts in a grocery store with a confrontation and gives you some history for one of the characters. Thank you to Jana for sharing her recording of the real Evans Miles singing When the Whippoorwills Holler at Night for this episode. Thank you to the Pat Conroy Literary Center for shining a light on Sasser's storytelling. And, as always, thank you for listening.Here are links to learn more about J.C. Sasser https://www.jcsasser.com/ and the Pat Conroy Literary Center https://patconroyliterarycenter.org/--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/theresa-bakken/support
This is a story set in NYC. It centers on a controversial photo taken of a young girl in 1977. Author Tammy (T) Greenwood tells the story through the eyes of this child model and actress who’s all grown up today with a daughter of her own. There is a striking generational mother daughter story here too, so that’s where we begin talking about the novel Such a Pretty Girl.
You'll hear an excerpt from the audiobook set in the Westbeth artist community in NY (which was a real place we’ll talk more about). In the section of the audiobook we are featuring, you’re with the main character Ryan when she’s a child. And, your guide is narrator Mara Wilson - who herself is known for film acting rolls from her childhood. She was Natalie in Mrs. Doubtfire in 1993, and she played the lead role in the film adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Matilda in 1996. Today she is a stage actress, a voice artist, a writer, and a playwright.
I hope you enjoyed meeting Tammy and talking about the '70's and motherhood and art as much as I did. I hope you got lost in Mara Wilson’s narration - that hearing a few minutes of the audiobook for Such a Pretty Girl left you wanting more.
Thanks to Kensington Press for making this episode possible.
Kensington generously provides Desideratum listeners the discount code DP20 to save 20 percent across their incredible library - you just enter DP20 at checkout at Kensingtonbooks.com
Also, please check out Libro.fm to find Such A Pretty Girl narrated by Mara Wilson. Using this affiliate link to Libro.fm supports this podcast and a local book store of your choice.
You can find more about T. Greenwood’s other novels on her website: https://www.tgreenwood.com/
As always, thank you for listening.
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Folly Park is a story about history, race, identity, and friendship. At its heart is a woman named Temple Preston and her old, crumbling, ancestral plantation in Virginia. With the discovery of long hidden, disturbing family secrets, Temple gets wrapped up in exposing these family secrets as a way to save the ancestral home, until she begins to question whether it's really worth saving.
Author Heidi Hackford talks about the character she eventually grew to like, about the power of semantics, and about how her work at Monticello - and how people responded to it - helped shape this story.
My thanks to Folly Park’s publisher She Writes Press and author Heidi Hackford for sharing Temple and Vee and this story full of history and surprises with me. I would love to hear what you think about Folly Park, reach out anytime on social media or email at tbnarrator@gmail.com
As always, thanks for being here.. And thanks for listening.
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This is a story about a quiet, thoughtful man named Harlan Leblanc. The story is about how and why Leblanc gets tangled up in a murder investigation. You'll hear from author James Wade about the action and the allegory he created, and about the ways he tried to mirror and balance the darkness and hope in this gritty tale. We talk about the humor he found in indecision and inflammation. And, how his young daughter is shifting his perspectives. You'll feel narrator Roger Clark walking in the shoes and looking out through the eyes of the characters in an excerpt from the audiobook. Roger has performed about a 100 audiobooks, worked in theater and film, and is best known for portraying Arthur Morgan in Rock Star games Red Dead Redemption. James thinks his reverence and grit are spot on for this story.
I want to thank Lauren Maturo at Blackstone Publishing for connecting me with James and his work. If you would like to hear more of Roger Clark performing Beasts of the Earth please check out Libro.fm. When you use my affiliate link to Libro.fm you support this podcast and with Libro.Fm you can choose a local book store in your neighborhood to support as well.
As always, thank you for being here and thanks for listening.
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This is a story about a seasoned war photojournalist named Annie Green. The timeline is 2015 and Annie is headed back to Afghanistan on assignment. She’s struggling through PTSD from the last time she was there - when a girls school she was working at exploded killing her closest friend. She’s also facing betrayal from a rival journalist, and she’s navigating a delicate balance between love, motherhood and a dangerous career. We’re talking about the thrilling fiction created by author Jeannée Sacken called Double Exposure and we're doubly lucky because the narrator for this series is also joining us. Nicole Swanson describes how she prepared to be the voice of Annie. But first, we hear how Nicole's other profession feeds her acting skills and her humanity. If you would like to hear more of Nicole's performance of Double Exposure's audiobook, please look for the title on Libro.fm . When you use this affiliate link to Libro.fm you support this podcast and when you purchase your audiobooks on Libro.fm you can also choose a local book store in your neighborhood to support. Special thanks to Jeannée’s publisher Ten 16, and to producer Craig Hart at the audiobook publisher Northern Lake Audio for connecting me to Nicole and providing the extended and excellent audiobook excerpt for this episode. As always, thank you for being here and thanks for listening.
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This is a story that author Kerry Anne King says began with a house: a house that won't stay painted, whose shingles won't stay on, and the lawn won't stay mowed. It's in a constant state of falling apart. Like it's grieving, or possessed by ghosts. Kerry's new novel IMPROBABLY YOURS is her 13th, and it does have some spooky elements. But, it's also an adventure complete with a real treasure map. It begins with a memory, a young girl sitting with her grandmother who speaks in fortune teller fashion about a prediction for the little girl's future. You'll hear that scene from the audiobook. And, you'll hear how Kerry plays with the idea of hidden treasure and what's hidden below the surface. Brilliance audio produced IMPROBABLY YOURS in a dual narrator format. So, when you hear about Blythe it’s audiobook actress Terri Clark Linden - an earphones award winning narrator who’s performed some of Kerry’s other books. And, when you hear about the other main character - Flynn the Viking - the narrator is Aaron Shedlock who is a rising star in the world of audiobooks. Thanks to Kerry for her openness and good humor. And to her publisher Lake Union and the audiobook publisher Brilliance Audio for the excerpt you hear in this episode. Find out what other books these narrators perform (Teri Clark Linden , Aaron Shedlock ). And, check out the fun Kerry creates for her readers on her website. I’d love to know what you think about Improbably Yours. Reach out anytime! Thanks for listening.
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Her new crime mystery 9 Days got us talking about tarot card readings and wondering if how the stars aligned at the time of our birth could shape or guide us... That's because author Jule Selbo's new murder mystery 9 Days opens with a world famous astrologist confessing to murder. When the astrologist's 12 year old son doesn't believe his mother is guilty, he hires Private Investigator Dee Rommel to find the truth in just 9 Days. Listen as Jule explains why being underestimated can be a good thing, where a family heirloom of hers turned up in the book, and how a fascination with superheroes worked its way into this story.
Desideratum Podcast listeners save 15% on the Dee Rommel mystery series with the code DP15 on Pandamoon.com.
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The Deception is about life and death and the delicate veil between the two. The story spirals around an Illusionist running from her past, and a Medium whose past fame and spirit guide have abandoned her. The pliable Maud (the Medium known as the Maid of Light) and the clever Clementine (a master of tricks and illusions) join forces to find fame and fortune, but at what cost… does the end justify the means?
Listen as author Kim Taylor Blakemore shares how she scoured history to find her own muses for this tale of authenticity and duplicity. We talk about how she delivers readers to an 1870’s New England that was romanced by spiritualism. We discuss her seductive and charming characters and rainy rainy setting with shades of gray ethics that will seep into your very bones.
Thanks to Kim’s publisher Lake Union Publishing and the audiobook publisher Brilliance Audio. You can find other hauntingly beautiful books by Kim Taylor Blakemore on her website here. You can find other stories narrated by Gail Shalen and Hope Newhouse on their websites. As always, thanks for being here - thanks for listening.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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Imagine a character waking you up with his story… that’s how Robb Grindstaff describes writing his new novel SLADE. For me - talking to Robb about writing SLADE was a meta moment - interviewing an author about his life and his book that is about interviewing an author about his book and his life. Turns out interviewing skills are all over Robb’s resume. The newspaper biz took him from small town Wisconsin to Washington DC. He describes himself as a small town kid who’s as comfortable in Tokyo as he is in Tuna, TX. Listen to the advice Robb got from music legend Art Garfunkel and find out how it made it into the story. And, hear narrator Timothy G Little’s big voice. His performance as SLADE is mesmerizing. And, he matches Robb in the fun facts category. Between his corporate jobs and his literary life Timothy has lived in Turkey, Greece, Costa Rica, Spain, and Italy. He’s narrated about 50 titles with his resonant tone. You can find every novel Robb’s written on his website. Thanks to Robb and his publisher Evolved publishing, and as always thank you for listening. https://www.robbgrindstaff.com/ https://evolvedpub.com/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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Ellen Marie Wiseman is drawn to the dark corners of history, where rumors and mystery shroud the truth. It's where she finds and develops characters who shine. Listen as she shares how her own history led her to write about hidden truths and social injustices. We're talking about her new novel, The Lost Girls of Willowbrook, which is set in a real state run institution exposed back in 1972 for its atrocious abuses. Ellen opens the novel with quotes from a real doctor who was there in 1972. Dr. William Bronston's physician activism helped bring an end to the institution. He is joining Ellen for some of her book launch events. You'll hear him describe how Ellen's storytelling takes him back in time, and you'll listen to a few minutes from the chapter of the audiobook that Dr. Bronston says affected him most profoundly.
Thanks to Vida at Kensington Books for connecting me to Ellen and Dr. Bronston. Kensington generously provides Desideratum listeners the discount code DP20 to save 20 percent across their incredible library. You just enter DP20 at checkout at Kensingtonbooks.com
Check out Libro.fm to find The Lost Girls of Willowbrook audiobook narrated by Morgan Hallett. Using the affiliate link to Libro.fm supports this podcast and a local book store of your choice.
You can find more about the heartbreak and hope in all of Ellen’s fictions on her website. https://ellenmariewiseman.com/
You can get a copy of Dr. William Bronston’s book Public Hostage Public Ransom on his website. https://www.publichostagepublicransom.org/
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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Author Carol Van Den Hende sought solace in writing and then committed to sharing what she learned about resilience with her readers. Her novels Goodbye Orchid and Orchid Blooming are about love, personal growth, and trauma recovery. Listen to how she drew inspiration from combat wounded veterans. Find out why her own personal love story (how she met her husband) influenced her characters' brushes with kismet. Hear an excerpt of Carol narrating Goodbye Orchid, and find out how she used her first novel's backstory to create her 2nd novel - Orchid Blooming - which launches this month.
Here's Carol's LinkTree which connects you to her book events, newsletter, social media presence, and website.
A special thank you to Kathy L. Murphy who shined her light on Carol so I could find her. Goodbye Orchid is the Pulpwood Queen's May 2022 Bonus Book of the Month.
As always, thank you for listening.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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With a cast of many characters, telling the story from more than a dozen vantage points - Johnnie Bernhard takes readers on a journey with a widow and a sojourner in her new novel Hannah and Ariela. Johnnie's connection to the land, the people, and the history of Texas shine through, but listen to how writing from all these different points of view challenged her and made her "put her ego in her back pocket". We talk about the layers of miracle and faith and we dig deeper into the real life tragedy of human trafficking at the heart of this harrowing fiction.
You can find Johnnie's other award-winning literary fiction novels and more about her - on her website - HERE. I’ve had the absolute honor of narrating her novels: Sisters of the Undertow, How We Came to Be, and A Good Girl.
Finally, you should know, a portion of the proceeds from Hannah and Ariela book sales will go to the aid of victims of human trafficking.
A special thank you to TCU Press, and as always, thank you for listening.
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She comes from a long line of resilient, resourceful, and quirky Colorado women, and she loves finding obscure historical facts to write about. But, while Randi Samuelson Brown's new novel is rooted in the past, it's action and suspense are current and contemporary. We're talking about book one in her new series featuring a Brand Inspector in Colorado cattle country. It's called Brand Chaser and it's layered with history, mystery, danger, suspense and even a little romance. We begin with what made Randi jump from writing about Colorado's colorful past to this modern take on the wild west.
Thanks to Randi Samuelson Brown for sharing her story and her history. And, thanks to her publisher Wolfpack publishing . You can find Brand Chaser everywhere you buy books.
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Author and narrator Travis Baldree has created an escapist fantasy that - as the first line promises - is "for anyone who wondered where the other road led." It's the story of a fabled artifact (a stone that promises a ring of fortune) and an Orc named Viv who is ready to change her life - ready to leave mercenary work behind and open the first coffee shop in the city of Thune. The shop, its regulars, its slowly developing menu, and sapphic love story have all struck a chord with legions of fans (fans from all genre camps). In response, after just a few months out on its own, Legends & Lattes was acquired by Pan MacMillan's Tor Publishing imprint with a contract for another stand alone fantasy. You'll hear from Travis about how work on the 2nd book is going; how his sense of smell became a beloved character creating legendary cinnamon rolls; how hundreds of hours of narration work steered his writing; and of course you'll hear a few minutes of Travis performing the transporting Legends & Lattes audiobook. Thanks to Travis and to Tor Publishing for being part of the pod... to quote a chess playing gnome in the book, "Thank you for letting me sit in the shade of what you've grown!" You can find his social links and follow Travis's work through his website And, when you use this affiliate link to purchase the audiobook from Libro.fm , you support this humble pod and a local book store of your choosing. Thanks for listening!
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Michelle Cox - the author of the Henrietta and Inspector Howard series - talks about how her spunky, sleuthing, sexy character Henrietta is based on a real woman. We’re talking about book 5 in the series - A Child Lost - where multiple story lines of crime and passion weave together. It’s easy to pick up the threads even if you’re new to Henrietta’s adventures. And, while there aren’t any cliff hanging loose ends, you will find clues to draw you to Book 6, which is coming out this fall. You’ll hear us talk about the book’s theme of lost children and the way poetry worked its way into this 1930’s story. You’ll also hear a few minutes from the audiobook narrated by Jayne Entwistle - an Audie Finalist - A Voice Arts Award winner - known for her work on book series - who you might have also seen acting in television shows like The Good Place. Thanks to Brooke Warner at She Writes Press for connecting me to Michelle. If you’d like to hear more - please look for the audiobook of A child Lost on Libro.fm - I found all 5 of the Henrietta and Inspector Howard books in Libro.fm’s library - as well as more than 80 books narrated by Jayne Entwistle. Using this affiliate link supports the podcast and a local book store of your choice. Book 6 in the Henrietta and Inspector Howard series will be out this fall. Check out Michelle's blog Novel Notes and Local Lore on her website.
Thanks for listening!
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A real life, centuries old mystery surrounding the fate of Eleanor Dare and her carved stone whispered across time and gave wings to Kimberly Brock's storytelling imagination. Kimberly plants her story in 1945, and then carefully reveals its deep roots. It’s an exquisite story about being found and seen - about finding your way and feeling lost. And - wow - the truths Kimberly illuminates along the way about mothers and daughters! Find out what a marsh means to Kimberly and hear about a serendipity between the author and award winning narrator and voice actor Brittany Pressley. The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare is about family legacy and the timeless desire to be remembered. Congratulations to Kimberly on The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare making the Southern Indie Booksellers Alliance (SIBA) Bestseller List. You can select a local bookstore to support - and support this podcast - when you follow our affiliate link to Libro.fm to purchase the audiobook. Thank you to Margaret Kercher at Harper Muse Books for connecting me to Kimberly, and thank you for listening. #southernfiction #desideratumpodcast #harpermuse #librofm #audiobook
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When was the last time you read a middle grade fiction? This week's featured author Heather Mateus Sappenfield will convince you it's time with her new novel The River Between Hearts. It’s an adventure with an almost-11 year old girl named Rill. It’s a story about friendship and compassion - and loss and longing. You'll spend a few minutes with her main character Rill and her friend Perla in a reading that hints at the loss they both are struggling with. We also chat about why Heather creates characters with dyslexia and we find out how a former student's real life experiences informed the character Perla.
Thanks to Heather’s publicist Jackie Karneth at BooksForward - a JKS Communications Company, and Heather's publisher Janie Royal at Fitzroy Books - an imprint of Regal House Publishing. You can find all of Heather's books on her website and learn more about having her visit you at your school or favorite book store. As always, thank you for listening.
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This week's featured story is a Pandora's box of secrets. We are talking to author Julia Brewer Daily about how secrets reverberate through her character's stories. Her debut novel - No Names to be Given - begins in a maternity hospital in New Orleans in the late 1960’s where three young women relinquish their babies for adoption on the same day. It’s a fiction based on truth - the maternity hospital really existed and Julia herself was born there! We begin by talking about how in her fiction she uses DNA testing to reveal long hidden truths and end with what Julia calls 'the sweetest third'. You will also hear a couple minutes from the audiobook's Prologue. It's the day the three young women at the heart of the story - Sandy, Becca, and Faith - all deliver their babies. The narrator, Reagan Boggs, is also a singer/songwriter in the Nashville area. She really brings her lyricism to this story. I want to thank The Kathy L. Murphy for introducing me to Julia when she chose No Names to be Given as one of her Pulpwood Queens and Timber Guys Book Club’s ‘Book of the Month’. Also a special thank you to Julia’s publisher Lara Bernhardt at Admission Press. Julia’s sophomore book called The 5th Daughter of Thorn Ranch will be out this August. You can find the trailer for Julia's new podcast Author’s Over 50 on her website. If you’d like to hear the rest of No Names to be Given’s audiobook narrated by Reagan Boggs, please use our affiliate link to Libro.fm When you purchase your audiobooks through the Desideratum Podcast Libro.fm partner link you support the podcast, and you can pick a local bookstore to support as well.
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/theresa-bakken/support
Welcome to Episode 50! We’re talking to author Elayne Audrey Becker about her novel Forestborn - a fantasy story about human frailty, self doubt, and the dangers of othering - all examined through a magical lens. We begin with Elayne sharing why she made her main character Rora a shapeshifter.
You will hear a scene from Chapter 1 when Rora is working as a spy for the king - tracking cases of a deadly disease. The scene takes place in a forest where you can hear the vivid nature Elayne creates. You’ll also hear the skill of the narrator - Sofia Zervudachi - who Audiofile Magazine says "strikes just the right tone as Rora - introspective but self assured".
I want to thank Drew Kilman at Macmillan Audio and Giselle Gonzalez at TorTeen for connecting me with Elayne and making this Desideratum Podcast episode on Forestborn possible. You can find more about Elayne - and get a sneak peak at Book 2’s cover and blurb on her website here. Book 2 is called Wildborn and will be released this August. If you want to hear the rest of the Forestborn audiobook - use this Libro.fm affiliate link to support the podcast and choose a local bookstore you want to benefit from every audiobook you buy. As always, thank you for listening!
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In our conversation with Jeffrey Blount, we talk about foundations, race relations, thunderstorms, banana seat bicycles, and parenting. His novel The Emancipation of Evan Walls centers on the childhood of a boy in the late 1960’s who decides he wants to be somebody. Jeffrey's characters frustrate, illuminate, foster empathy and inspire. The novel is not an audiobook yet, so I asked my friend and fellow narrator Earl Sewell to read for us. Earl is an author, narrator, and audio drama podcaster - and as he does with every project - he brought a lot of heart to this reading.
Here is Jeffrey Blount's website and a link to Earl Sewell's latest audio drama podcast.
Enjoy and thanks for listening!
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James Wade’s writing washed over me. I felt and heard the rhythm and tone he gave his novel River Sing Out. You’re going to hear some of the audiobook from his narrator Roger Clark - who has voiced about a hundred audiobooks, worked in theater and film, and is perhaps best known for portraying Arthur Morgan in Rock Star Games’ Red Dead Redemption. But first, listen to James explain why his characters have vivid dreams - why it’s so hard for him to give his characters names - and why he began this story with the origin of the Neches River.
I want to thank Lauren Maturo at Blackstone Publishing and Isabella Nugent at Blackstone Audio for connecting me with James and his work.
Here is a link to RIVER SING OUT on Blackstone Publishing's website book’s product page
And, a link to James' website - where you can find out about his next release BEASTS OF THE EARTH - coming out with Blackstone this fall.
This has been Episode 48 – As always - thanks for listening.
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James tells a tale steeped in nature and human nature - with violence and addiction creating a ripple effect in his character's lives. It is hard for me to articulate just how poetic his prose and his writing style is - how he conjures something musical in his writing. In this outtake we talk about the cycles where he found his rhythm and truth. Listen to the full episode this Friday. #desideratumpodcast #riversingout #cycleofviolence #texasfiction #blackstonepublishing #JamesWade
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Tom Young's novel Red Burning Sky is told through characters with a lot of heart. They don't accept impossible. This little known WWII story based on the daring Operation Halyard will have you holding your breath and hearing the music of the slipstream.
Tom's answer to the question 'what's most essential to you?' was one of my favorites. The excerpt you'll hear from the Red Burning Sky audiobook was produced by Recorded Books, and is performed by Pete Bradbury - an actor of stage and screen and an accomplished narrator.
Thanks to Ann Pryor at Kensington for introducing me to Tom. Kensington Books generously provides the discount code DP20 to Desideratum Listeners to save 20 percent across their incredible library - just enter DP20 at checkout at Kensingtonbooks
Also, please look for the Red Burning Sky audiobook on Libro.fm . Using this affiliate link supports the podcast and a local book store of your choice.
You can find more of Tom Young's exciting work on his website.
As always, thank you for listening.
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What it feels like to be there - that's what Tom Young delivers in his historical fiction Red Burning Sky. It is a thrilling aviation rescue story - and so much more. In this sneak peak at this week's Desideratum Podcast episode, Tom shares how a scholar of Russian Literature worked his way into this story. Hear more about the impossible that became possible in the secretive and dangerous WWII mission called Operation Halyard. #redburningsky #DesideratumPodcast #WWII #OperationHalyard #RecordedBooks #audiobooks #aviationrescue
https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/
https://tomyoungbooks.com/
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Listen as thriller writer John Gilstrap tells us why his new heart pounding book Blue Fire has so much heart and why his storytelling often includes teenage characters. You'll hear a few minutes of the first chapter of Blue Fire's audiobook produced by Recorded Books and read by narrator Kate Forbes.
We begin with Blue Fire's real life jumping off point - the truth that there was a secure government location where our leaders would go if our country was ever in imminent danger.
Thanks to Ann at Kensington Books for introducing me to John. Kensington generously provides Desideratum listeners the discount code DP20 to save 20 percent across their incredible library - just enter DP20 at checkout at Kensingtonbooks.com
Also, please look for the audiobook on Libro.fm for Blue Fire - which is book 2 in John's Victoria Emerson Thriller series. You will also find John’s other successful novels - his first was Nathan’s Run - and of course his Jonathon Graves Series is in audiobook format too. Using this affiliate link to Libro.fm supports the podcast and a local book store of your choice. Find out about all the books John has written and more on his website. http://www.johngilstrap.com/
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This week’s peak Behind the Scenes vodcast of the #DesideratumPodcast is ready…
John Gilstrap ‘s #BlueFire really got my heart racing! He puts his characters in imminent danger in a post nuclear war world he creates with gritty detail. But you should also know that this 2nd book in his #VictoriaEmersonThriller series is a story about how humanity needs civilization, community, and leadership focused on the common good.
Episode 46 is coming soon with more about the skills his characters need, the reason all his storytelling includes teenagers, and a heart pounding excerpt from the audiobook with narrator Kate Forbes Recorded Books Kensington Publishing Corp. #audiobooks #thrillerseries #podcastrecommendations
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Episode 45 of the #DesideratumPodcast features Donna Everhart and her new novel #TheSaintsOfSwallowHill The story takes us somewhere I'd never heard of - a Turpentine Camp. Donna's characters suffer - but that's the way she likes it - struggle provides a path to perseverance and growth. Listen as Donna shares how steeped in reality this story's suffering really is. The audiobook was produced by Tantor Audio a division of Recorded Books and narrated by Amy Melissa Bentley who has performed over 200 audiobooks. She has an Audiofile Earphones Award, and she has a real gift for dialects from Russian to New Yorker to the Southern American you hear in this performance.
Thanks to Vida at Kensington Books for connecting me to Donna. For Desideratum listeners, Kensington generously provides the discount code DP20 to save 20 percent across their incredible library.
Also, please look for The Saints of Swallow Hill on Libro.fm Using this affiliate link supports the podcast and a local book store of your choice at Libro.fm. As always, Thank you for listening.
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/theresa-bakken/support
Listen and look behind the scenes of this weeks Desideratum Podcast Episode with Donna Everhart. We are talking about her new novel #TheSaintsOfSwallowHill - set in the Depression Era with all its suffering and hardship. Donna’s main characters try to escape their troubles - but they end up going from the frying pan into the fire. There are some near death experiences that shape them. In this Bonus Behind the Scenes Donna shares a very personal moment from her own life that she drew on for this story of loss, suffering, love and safety. Kensington Publishing Corp. #southernfiction #northcarolinaauthor #audiobook #depressionerafiction
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This week's featured story is The Cicada Tree by Robert Gwaltney. It's a story about secrets and obsessions set in an oppressive southern summer. Our conversation with Robert touches on his fascination with (not fear of) the cicada emergence that inspired the title. And, we explore his love of music, fashion, architecture, and that mixture of joy and fright he's found experiencing firsts in the middle.
Below is a link to his website, the book trailer and the cocktail recipe inspired by the novel and created by his brilliant brother Chris. The book launches February 22, 2022.
Thanks to the Pulpwood Queen Kathy Murphy for first introducing me to Robert, thanks to Robert and Moonshine Cove Publishing, LLC, for the Advanced Reader Copy of The Cicada Tree, and as always thank you for listening!
https://robertlgwaltney.com/
https://www.facebook.com/robert.gwaltney.9/videos/10225982764142771
https://www.facebook.com/1445412163/videos/pcb.10228050386272032/400029188479106
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Behind the scenes of this week’s episode with Robert Gwaltney talking about the way his childhood reaction to Cicadas made its way into his debut novel - The Cicada Tree - would you be afraid or fascinated? Oh - and we talk about secrets, self discovery, obsessions and disillusionment too - Hear his complete audio conversation and an excerpt from the book In the Desideratum Podcast Episode 44 #southerngothic #podcastrecommendation #thecicadatree #audiobook #AtlantaAuthor #LiteraryFiction
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Today's episode features River Jordan's collection of short stories - 13 Southern tales gathered in a book she called Sugar Baby And Other Stories. We talk about the Divine and it's connection to strangers. River reads for us, and tells us stories, and shares her essential truth. You can hear more from her on the ClearStory Radio Show which she has hosted in Nashville for over 15 years. Please visit her website to find her award winning work including Praying for Strangers, The Ancient Way, Confessions of a Christian Mystic, and her most recent - Sugar Baby And Other Stories - which the Pulpwood Queen Book Club named February’s bonus book selection. Thank you to author Mandy Haynes for being my connection to River. And, as always, thank you for listening. https://www.riverjordanink.com/ Instagram - RiverJordanInk Facebook - RiverJordanInk Twitter- RiverJordanInk
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Our featured story is from author, attorney and LGBTQ+ activist Robyn Gigl. We are talking about Survivor's Guilt, Book 2 in Robyn's Erin McCabe legal thriller series that launches this week. Part of Robyn's writing genius is how she quietly and skillfully introduces readers to things and people around them that they might not otherwise see or understand. You will also hear about: a real person she immortalized in the series, her mental health connection to sports, and why her main character wears lucky socks to court. This story is about the greedy and powerful coming up against the system we call Justice. It centers on how they are ultimately held accountable by and for those they have exploited.
Robyn's narrator for the series is Marguerite Gavin. She is a narrator with 20 years experience, numerous Audie nominations and Earphones awards, and a devoted fan following. Audiofile Magazine says Marguerite has "the coveted ability to disappear as the narrator - letting the story take the limelight it deserves".
I hope you will visit https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/ to save on Robyn’s books and their entire incredible library. Just use the Desideratum Podcast Code DP20 at checkout to save 20%. If listening to the excerpt hooks you on narrator Marguerite Gavin’s delivery, in a few weeks, you can purchase the complete audiobook at Libro.fm. Please use the Desideratum Podcast affiliate link with Libro.fm. Doing so supports the podcast and a local bookstore of your choice. https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=25361&awinaffid=970873
Thanks to Vida at Kensington Books for introducing me to Robyn and as always thank you for listening!
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In her debut novel A DAY LIKE THIS, author Kelley McNeil explores intuition, memory, motherhood, science, the mystery of creativity and the magic of place. Her main character Annie is an artist who is haunted by visions and memories of things she can not explain. The novel follows Annie far from home as she tries to reconcile her memories with her reality. Our conversation is full of wit and wisdom. Kelley's essential thing made me so happy. It's about belonging and family and home. Her narrator is one of my favorite voice actors. Amanda Leigh Cobb delivers this immersive story with just the right blend of urgency, skepticism and wonder. Thanks to Brilliance Audio for the audiobook excerpt. And, as always, thank you for listening.
https://www.kelleymcneil.com/
https://www.amandaleighcobb.com/
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This week's Episode features author Colleen Cambridge aka Colleen Gleason. Her latest novel MURDER AT MALLOWAN HALL from Kensington Publishing Corp. is a gem for anyone who enjoys a good old fashioned English manor murder mystery. Her heroine Phyllida Bright is self assured, knows her worth, pays attention to detail, is friends with THE Agatha Christie, and becomes a smashing good amateur sleuth in this - Book 1 - of Colleen's new series. Listen to the multitalented audiobook narrator Jennifer Dixon perform Chapter 1 from MURDER AT MALLOWAN produced by Highbridge a division of Recorded Books. You can find Colleen's previous NY Times Bestselling series on her website https://www.colleengleason.com/ . I hope you will also visit https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/ to save on Colleen's books and their entire incredible library. Just use the Desideratum Podcast Code DP20 at checkout. Thanks to Sudden Fiction Books for hosting me in their stacks for my zoom chat with Colleen. You can choose Sudden Fiction as your bookstore to support when you buy your audiobooks on Libro.fm. Please use the Desideratum Podcast affiliate link with Libro.fm to buy your audiobooks. https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=25361&awinaffid=970873
Thanks to Larissa at Kensington Books for introducing me to Colleen and thank you for listening!
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You had me at chocolate... but then a crossdressing woman navigating a 1920's man's world... and a talking cockatoo who eats cacao seeds and gives clues... seriously this week's featured novel The Spanish Daughter by Lorena Hughes is just that rich! Listen as Lorena talks about strong women, wealth, family ties and a lush coastal town in her native Ecuador that really was known as the 'birthplace of cacao'. Learn more about Lorena who was named one of 9 Rising Latina Authors You Don’t Want to Miss by HIP LATINA. https://www.lorena-hughes.com/ Pre-order The Spanish Daughter using the code Kensington Books generously gives to Desideratum Podcast listeners. Just enter DP20 at checkout on the Kensington books website. https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/ Listen to The Spanish Daughter audiobook narrated by the award winning Franki Corzo whose captivating work has earned her Audiofile Magazine’s Best Of audiobook awards in 2019 and 2020. Please use the Desideratum Podcast affiliate link with Libro.fm to buy this audiobook. https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=25361&awinaffid=970873
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This week's featured novel is the latest thriller from the imagination of author Charlie Donlea. Twenty Years Later kept me puzzling and guessing until the very end. You will meet characters who work to uncover the truth behind a 20 year old murder case while they also confront and face things they are hiding from. It's a story about memory, betrayal and reinvention.
Listen to a scene from the audiobook performed by Vivienne Leheny. And, listen as Charlie shares: How the idea for this story came from a headline... What he uses as a beacon when he's writing... And why his essential thing is connected to rejection - lots and lots of rejection.
You can find out more about Charlie and his other novels on his website.
https://www.charliedonlea.com/
Visit the Kensington Books website to pre-order the book at 20% off. Just use the Desideratum Podcast DP20 listener code at checkout. Thank you Kensington Books for connecting me to great authors and sharing this discount with my listeners.
https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/
Visit Libro.fm to purchase the audiobook narrated by Vivienne Leheny and produced by Highbridge Audio a division of Recorded Books - available December 28th. When you follow this link, you support the Desideratum Podcast and you can choose a local bookstore to support as well. Thank you Libro.fm for the affiliate partnership.
https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=25361&awinaffid=970873
Libro.fm has audiobook gift memberships available now - they come in 3 month- ($45), 6month- ($90), and 12-month ($180) durations. Follow this link to purchase a gift membership:
https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=25361&awinaffid=970873&ued=https%3A%2F%2Flibro.fm%2Fgift
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Author Rebecca Copeland understands the power of words - and the many meanings behind them. She explores the idea of home and identity while unwrapping a multilayered mystery in her debut novel The Kimono Tattoo. The character she has created to walk you through this story within a story is an American woman living in Japan and working as a translator. Listen to why Rebecca feels so connected to Japan, and hear the scene that reveals the title worthy tattoo. The Kimono Tattoo is this weeks featured novel, available from Brother Mockingbird Publishing. The audiobook is in production at Northern Lake Audio and will be available in early 2022. Thanks to Johnnie Bernhard for putting me on the path to meet Rebecca, and thank you for listening.
https://www.rebecca-copeland.com/
https://www.brothermockingbird.net/
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Our conversation with author Kim Taylor Blakemore begins and ends with how her stories come to her - sometimes it's dark. We talk about gothic tropes, Gettysburg Battlefield ghosts, and the drive to find the voice of a lost loved one. There are also some big ideas about sibling relationships and mercy. Kim uses mercy - both how we show it and how we deny it. What you will not find here are spoilers. This historical thriller (with gothic roots) delivers a delightfully uncertain and sometimes weird ride and we deliberately navigated away from ruining it for anyone getting on after us. Enjoy award winning narrator, producer and actress Amanda Leigh Cobb 's performance of the audiobook scene thanks to Brilliance Audio, Amazon Publishing.
Here is the website for the author Kim called the 'queen of gothic' - Laura Purcell. https://www.laurapurcell.com/
As well as Kim's https://www.kimtaylorblakemore.com/ and Amanda's websites https://www.amandaleighcobb.com/
Thanks to author Robert Gwaltney for encouraging me to reach out to Kim. You were right, she's talented AND fun!
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Our featured story is author Kerry Anne King's new novel Other People's Things. We talk about how the main character Nickel sparks change and creates a ripple effect of consequences in her own life and in the lives of others with her unusual compulsion to move objects that don't belong to her (it sounds like stealing - but it's not that simple). The story plays with the concepts of fate and destiny, in an entertaining ride from lost to found. Kerry explains what makes her a catalyst, why she is an active pursuer of joy, and what she loves about the Robert Frost poem The Road not Taken.
Connect with Kerry Anne King (aka Kerry Schafer) and find all her books on her website. Learn more about her narrator Teri Clark Linden through her industry profile page with Audiofile Magazine. Thanks for listening!
https://allthingskerry.com/
Teri Clark Linden - Audiofile Magazine industry profile
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This week's featured story is The Rebellious Tide by Eddy Boudel Tan. In our conversation with Eddy, we talk about: how a ship untethered from land became the perfect setting for this story, why he paid homage to Greek mythology’s Achilles and Patroclus in the story, and what his main character Sebastian’s reasons were for stalking instead of confronting his father. I hope you’re curious about Eddy’s essential thing, and that you will want to take advantage of the discount code his publisher is offering to Desideratum listeners. Dundurn Press says they publish books that reflect the world, satisfy curiosity, enlighten and entertain. They amplify and elevate exceptional Canadian voices to the world, particularly those who have been previously underrepresented in trade publishing. Visit https://www.dundurn.com/ and use the Desideratum code DP15 for 15% off your purchase at checkout. You can connect with Eddy through his website: https://www.eddyboudeltan.com/ Thank you for listening.
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This week's featured story is Eileen Sanchez's novel Freedom Lessons. Its timely themes of race, unity and education celebrate a 50 year anniversary this week. A US Supreme Court ruling on October 29, 1969, forced a change in the way public schools educated children. On that day, in Louisiana, as change led to conflict and upheaval, Eileen Sanchez was teaching 2nd graders in a segregated school. But, her personal experience is just part of the story. Her novel Freedom Lessons brings multiple lenses to the Jim Crow South and invites you to see a history that still sparks conversation and feels relevant today. Listen to a scene from the newly released audiobook with narrator April Doty. And, visit Eileen's website or find her in the Facebook Group Prose and the Pandemic to continue the conversation. She's perennially ready to meet new people. https://www.eileensanchez.com/
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This week's featured author Tracy Clark delivered a story I shivered through, feeling the Chicago winter on every page. Runner is book 4 in her Cass Raines detective series and it centers on a runaway 15 year old and the race to find her.
Tracy shares why this was a winter she didn't see coming - how a delightful little thief showed up and won't ever leave - and when and where she finds her essential things.
Thank you to Kensington Press for connecting me with Tracy and her books and thank you to Highbridge Audio , A Division of Recorded Books for the scene from her rich, resonant, and talented audiobook narrator Shari Peele. Thank you for listening.
Here's Tracy Clark's website to connect with her and learn more about all her books. https://tracyclarkbooks.com/
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10 Days : Dee Rommel Mystery #1 is just the beginning for novelist Jule Selbo. Her plans for Dee Rommel - the justice seeking cop who was injured on the job - include a countdown style series starting with 10 Days, then 9 Days, then 8 Days... each book's action set in that specific time frame. Jule has worn several career hats preparing her for this work - playwright, screenwriter, and professor. She shares WHY the mystery and crime genre was something she always wanted to write, and tells us HOW a middle school experience in Fargo, North Dakota was the first step in her journey to Hollywood screenwriter. Her essential thing will take you to 'plot and beyond'. And, as a bonus for Desideratum Podcast listeners, Pandamoon Publishing is offering a special 15% off discount code to purchase the ebook and print editions, including hardback. Just enter the discount code DP15 at checkout on the Pandamoon Publishing website. https://pandamoonpub.com/ to save 15% on 10 Days. Thank you to Allen and Zara Kramer at Pandamoon for their generosity and support. Here's Jule Selbo's website to stay in touch with her and get the latest on her exciting new crime series. https://www.juleselbo.com/
Thanks for listening.
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This week's featured story tugged at the author's imagination for 20 years. Her character Astra Davies (Astra means star) is bright and witty, charming and unconventional. Author Brianne Moore explains why she told this story about a young woman finding her way specifically in the 1930's, what her personal connection is to enchanting gardens, and how PBS shows shaped her as a storyteller. You will hear an excerpt from the audiobook released today narrated skillfully by Shiromi Arserio (her performance as Astra is dazzling!). You can find Brianne's novels and audiobooks on her website. Thank you to Alcove Press and Dreamscape Media. If you would like to support the Desideratum Podcast, please take a look how you can help on our Patreon page. If you enjoy listening, please subscribe and leave an honest review where you listen and on Podchaser. Brianne Moore's Website Desideratum Podcast Website Support the Desideratum Podcast by becoming a Patreon Podchaser - follow rate and review your favorite podcasts
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This weeks featured story is from author Vanessa Riley. Her novel Island Queen is an intricately woven tale of an 18th century woman's rise from slavery to autonomy. You will hear how narrator Adjoa Andoh's performance matches and elevates the rich tapestry of Vanessa's storytelling. In our conversation with Vanessa, she shares how her technical background gives her perspective and allows her to examine the historical record with an intense level of detail. She also tells us the fascinating story behind her discovery of the real Dorothy Kirwan Thomas hiding in history. Dorothy's story from slavery to wealth and power is riveting and inspiring in Vanessa's skillful hands. Thanks to Danielle Bartlett at Harper Collins and Harper Audio and William Morrow. Thanks to Angela Anderson who first sang the praises of Island Queen to me. Thanks for listening. https://vanessariley.com/
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Desideratum is a Latin word meaning 'things that are desired as essential'. The Desideratum Podcast celebrates storytelling as an essential thing - the art of telling and the journey of listening. I am Theresa Bakken - an audiobook narrator. Join me and my wordsmith friends for new episodes every Friday showcasing the talents of authors and narrators. Listen to conversations with writers and scenes from their audiobooks. I hope you’ll tune in to hear an artist you love or to find your new favorite storyteller. Thanks for listening.
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The real story of The Second Mrs. Astor is told with rich detail and a romantic's touch. When Madeleine Force fell in love she was a teenager. Who she fell in love with fascinated the press and the public. How the love ended is revealed on the very first page. But, then there is so much more to her story. New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly & Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author Shana Abé shares how she envisioned this true story of opulence, scandal, a young woman's strength, and a love drenched in both devotion and loss.
We talk about the Titanic, the language of flowers, a beloved dog captured in historic photographs, the real Margaret Brown (yes the unsinkable one), and the strength of kindness (as an essential thing). Find out more about Shana and her novels on her website, and hear the rest of The Second Mrs. Astor's story in the audiobook narrated by the talented Lauren Ezzo. Thanks for listening. #kensingtonpress, #tantoraudio, #titanicstory, #audiobook, #authorinterview, #historicalfiction, #narrator
https://www.shanaabe.com/
https://www.amazon.com/Second-Mrs-Astor-Novel-Titanic/dp/1496732049
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Our featured story comes from freelance photographer and writer Jeannee Sacken. In her debut novel, Behind the Lens, Sacken honors strong women. She champions their education and freedom to follow their hearts and passions. Her characters are courageous and complicated. She takes us to a war zone with a photographer who focuses on truth and witnesses cruelty, love, cultural beauty and betrayal. It's a riveting, multifaceted story set in Afghanistan. You will hear a scene from the novel and find out why Sacken's own life trajectory changed - why she followed her heart and started sharing women's stories. You can find out more about Jeannee Sacken, connect with her on social media and buy her book in the links below. She has also shared the names of charities helping refugees from Afghanistan right now. Thanks for listening.
Links to Jeannee Sacken's work:
https://www.jeanneesacken.com
https://www.facebook.com/jeanneesacken
https://instagram/authorjeanneesacken
Link to Amazon to purchase Behind the Lens: https://amzn.to/3gNzfOo
Organizations accepting donations of new clothing, shoes, supplies, and money: Islamic Society of Milwaukee, Milwaukee Muslim Women's Coalition, Lutheran Social Services, International Institute of Wisconsin, Jewish Social Services (based in Madison)
Volunteering assistance: info@cclse.org (Catholic Charities of the Diocese of La Crosse), teamrubiconusa.org/resettlement, cclse.org/afghanistan-refugee-assistance
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Our featured story is a harrowing tale, a heart wrenching story about a journey through compassion and cruelty. Author Debra Thomas spent years writing the novel Luz and more years finding just the right publisher for the story - She Writes Press. In our conversation, she shares personal insight into the life lessons about perseverance and living with regrets that she wove into the characters. She talks about real life experiences that gave the story its authenticity and explains why she thinks fiction is the best vehicle to move us towards empathy and truth. You can find a great book club study guide for the novel put together by author and Bookish Road Trip founder Mary Sheriff on Debra's website. https://debrathomasauthor.com/planning-the-perfect-book-club-with-luz/
Thank you to the International Pulpwood Queens and Timber Guys Book Club and Reading Nation Magazine for shining a light on Luz and leading me to it. And, thank you for listening.
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Our featured story comes from Marjorie Herrera Lewis. Marjorie is a career sports writer covering football at all levels in Texas. In fact, she was the first female sports writer to cover the Dallas Cowboys. So when, through a happy set of coincidences, she found out about another female sports enthusiast who stepped up during WWII and coached high school football in Texas, she knew it was a story she had to tell. Tylene Wilson's story was lost to the dust bins of history before Marjorie wrote her novel When the Men Were Gone. Now, the book has made the Best Books lists in Sports Illustrated and Newsweek, is a Book Club selection of Readers Digest and the International Pulpwood Queens, and is now under a film contract. Listen to how Marjorie found Tylene's voice in late night writing sessions, and what Marjorie's big picture themes of the book are (hint: it's bigger than Texas football). Her audiobook narrator, Eva Kaminsky, is an accomplished television, film and broadway actor who has won multiple Earphones Awards for her narration work.
Find the rest of the story and more about Marjorie Herrera Lewis on her website https://marjorieherreralewis.com/ and see a picture of the real life Tylene Wilson posing with her football team on the Desideratum Podcast website. https://desideratumpodcast.com/ Thanks for listening.
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Our featured story is from Claire Fullerton, a storyteller who visits the past and studies how it shapes us over and over again in her writing. We talk about how being an outsider and an observer sparked her study and love for the south. She shares her unplanned writing style - you won't find it in any writing class. And, she describes her first trip to Como, Mississippi, where she set part of the novel Little Tea. You will hear a reading from Little Tea - a section from the beginning of the novel where you discover the title's significance.
You can find fantastic pictures of the ocean in her backyard and the shepherds in her life on her instagram feed @cffullerton And, you can find her novels and her engaging reviews of other author's novels on her website. https://www.clairefullerton.com/
I will put a little more of the Little Tea conversation on the Desideratum Podcast website - a lucky listener bonus about Claire's ancestral connection to and understanding of Ireland where her novel Dancing to an Irish Reel is set. https://desideratumpodcast.com/
Thanks for listening.
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Our featured story is from Frank Oliva's debut novel Walking Among the Trees. The Psychological Thriller is a journey through secrets and past sins. You will hear the beginning of the book as the two priests venture into the trees. And then, you will walk a little farther into the trees with the author to hear about: what he researched to get just right in the story; how the seed of the story was planted when he was a teenager working at a Catholic church; and how he found the time to create the novel's slow burn - with a couple jump scares along the way. Here's Frank's website to find out more about him and to order the book to find out the secrets it reveals for yourself. Thanks for listening.
Frank Oliva's Website
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Inspired by a surprising find in a library, today's featured story is from author Amanda Skenandore. She is an award winning historical fiction writer and a registered nurse. Her latest novel The Second Life of Mirielle West is set one hundred years ago in America's only leper colony. We talk about The Carville Leper Home and how the patients quarantined there long ago gave Amanda perspective on the current health crisis. Her essential thing is evident in her storytelling, and her ideas about what historical fiction writers might be exploring a hundred years from now intrigued and surprised me. She shared a great picture of herself at Carville doing book research in 2019. You can find it on the Desideratum Podcast website. https://desideratumpodcast.com/ You can find The Second Life of Mirielle West and learn about Amanda's other successful novels on her website. https://www.amandaskenandore.com/. Find out more about her narrator - the classically trained voice actor and Creative Changemaker Nicole Poole on her website. https://www.nicolepoole.com/. Thanks for listening!
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Our featured story comes from author Brian Malloy's new novel After Francesco. You will hear his talented and award winning narrator Michael Crouch read an excerpt from the audiobook - a scene where the main character Kevin measures his grief not by remembering what was, but by thinking about what will never be. You will also hear Brian explain - in his even and calming voice - how this emotional ride of a story is anchored in his personal experiences in many different ways. I love what his character Aunt Nora says about family. And, Brian's answer to the 'essential things' question caught me by surprise with its altruism. We begin by talking about when he was writing the 'author's note' during lock down - during the pandemic - a very different pandemic than the one he chronicles in the book - which honors those who fought a life and death battle against disease, hatred, indifference, and ignorance during the 1980's. You can find After Francesco and all of Brian's work through his website https://www.malloywriter.com/after_francesco_.htm. And, I'll put a picture of Brian with his Minnesota AIDS Project buds at the March on Washington in 1987 on the Desideratum Podcast website. https://desideratumpodcast.com/ When you want to hear more from narrator Michael Crouch, here is his website: http://www.michaellockwoodcrouch.com/
Thanks for listening.
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Our featured story comes from author Pamela Skjolsvik. She always considered herself a non-fiction writer, trained to tell the truth, but then one day she discovered she likes to make things up and she's good at it. She's written a vampire novel called Forever 51 that she says is not your daughter's vampire story. She's funnier than her last name and she's open and direct in surprising ways. I've been asking authors and everyone else about their COVID pandemic experiences - the silver linings and the losses. Her experience took my breath away. I'll put more about her and her picture on the Desideratum Podcast website. Below are links to her website, an article CNN published by her in 2020, and her social media pages. Thanks for listening.
https://www.pamelaskjolsvik.com/
https://desideratumpodcast.com/
Here is the link to her CNN article about her mother's last days:
https://www.cnn.com/2020/10/30/opinions/presidents-callous-words-covid-19-skjolsvik/index.html
and these are Pamela's social media pages links:
https://twitter.com/pamelaskjolsvik
https://www.instagram.com/pamelaskjolsvik/
https://www.facebook.com/pamelaskjolsvikauthor
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Today's featured story is an excerpt from the historical thriller Hunting Teddy Roosevelt. The story takes place during Roosevelt's well documented safari in Africa in 1909. Author James Ross places an assassin on the trip hired by forces who want to keep Roosevelt out of politics forever. And he creates a female journalist / explorer who travels with the safari and whose work shines a light on colonial atrocities in the Congo. The story has layers of excitement and personal discovery. You can find the book wherever books are sold and connect with James on his website and through his newsletter. On the Desideratum Podcast website you will find a link to his MOTH main stage storytelling - which gives you a taste of his next project. Thanks for listening.
https://www.jamesrossauthor.com/hunting-teddy-roosevelt
https://desideratumpodcast.com/
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Our featured story comes from former foreign corespondent and award winning journalist Gina Wilkinson. Her rich and suspenseful novel, When the Apricots Bloom, was inspired by her time in Bagdad twenty years ago. The story is told through the lens of three resilient women: an artist, a diplomat’s wife, and a secretary. Their complicated friendship and shared goal to protect their families is peppered with historical truths that transport you to their reality. My conversation with Gina explores the long standing idea that fiction is the lie that reveals the truth. You will hear Chapter 1 of the book come to life through the voice of narrator Raghad Chaar. You can find When the Apricots Bloom in all its formats here: When the Apricots Bloom on Amazon. You can see a photo Gina took in Iraq that helped her develop her characters friendship on the Desideratum Website. A special thanks to Vida Engstrand at Kensington Books for connecting me and Gina. And, thank you for listening.
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Our featured story is from author Meredith Stoddard who writes folklore inspired fiction. You will hear the beginning of her Book One, The River Maiden, in her Once and Future Series. There are five books in this contemporary fantasy series - so far. Meredith says she has more story to tell. 'These characters have mountains to climb, caves to feel their way through and emotional swamps to navigate.' Listen for how Meredith's characters are changed by betrayal and kindness. Hear what informs the choices they make and the way they see the world. There's an echo of this character development in Meredith's personal stories about her grandmother, Joyce. The lessons in life that Joyce gives Meredith draw from her nearly 104 years of experience. Meredith is the grateful granddaughter of a storyteller and a memory keeper. Read more of the Once and Future series as well as her short story bonus material on her website. http://www.meredithstoddard.com/ . And, here is a link to the author she mentions in the podcast - who she recommends to everyone - Steven Pressfield, https://stevenpressfield.com/books/the-war-of-art/ The featured picture for this episode is Joyce at 100. You can it on the Desideratum Podcast website and Desideratum Podcast Facebook page. https://desideratumpodcast.com/ , https://www.facebook.com/DesideratumPodcast/?ref=pages_you_manage Thanks for listening.
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As we head into the Independence Day holiday, on today's episode Kathleen Rodgers shares her impassioned convictions about democracy and talks about the stand she found the courage to take as an author. She invited her narrator and dear friend Michelle Williams to join the conversation. They dive into high school memories about CB radio handles and the eastern New Mexico sky. Kathleen says she can feel the land and smell the wind in Michelle's narration of Kathleen's 4th novel, The Flying Cutterbucks. Hear for yourself in our featured story, Chapter 1 of The Flying Cutterbucks, where the opening lines will take you back to a moment in October 2016. When you want to listen to the rest of the story, here is a link to Kathleen Rodger's The Flying Cutterbucks audiobook on Audible. https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Flying-Cutterbucks-Audiobook/B096MW4N6N And, a link to all of Kathleen's books and more on her website. https://kathleenmrodgers.com/ Thanks for listening.
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This week's featured story is from a father and son writing team. You're going to hear Chapter 1 from their book Spellbound Under the Spanish Moss, A Tale of Southern Magic. You will also hear why the 'why' is so important to them, how the magical world they've created has real world 'good truths', and what impact a real life car accident had on a fictional character. When you are ready to hear the rest of the story, here is a link to the book and audiobook. Thanks for listening! https://www.amazon.com/Spellbound-Under-Spanish-Moss-Southern/dp/B094K3W3DV/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1624055606&sr=8-1-spons
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Today's featured story was inspired by a teller of tall tales - a lover of stories. As we head into Father’s Day weekend, listen to Meghan Holloway talk about the ways her grandfather enriched her life and her writing. Meghan Holloway wrote a successful WWII Historical Fiction published by Polis Books called Once More Unto the Breach as well as a trilogy in the Thriller Crime genre with Hunting Ground released last year, and Hiding Place out this August. But, we are talking about something very different - a book she wrote that is set in the future. At its heart, it is a love story about what it means to be human and the ways we grapple with loneliness and loss. Today we are talking about The Library of Lost Souls.
http://www.polisbooks.com/authors/meghan-holloway https://www.meghanholloway.com/the-library-of-lost-souls
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Today's featured story is from Grace Sammon's novel The Eves. Grace describes The Eves as a multi-generational novel portraying lives lived well and lives in transition. It captures the conversations we wish we had had with our parents, if we had taken the opportunity, and the lessons we would want to impart to our children, if they were ready to listen. Told through the voice of the psychologically complex Jessica Barnet, this is her story. Listen to: why Grace struggled with her main character being called a liar, how Grace uses a nerdy explanation of Mitochrondrial DNA, and what Grace sees in those simple handprint paintings from childhood. Connect with Grace on social media and find her book through her website https://gracesammon.net/. Find a picture of Grace with a special handprint quilt her beta readers created for her on the Desideratum Podcast website. Thanks for listening.
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This weeks featured story is from author Dianne Bilyak. It's a vignette from her memoir Nothing Special: The Mostly True, Sometimes Funny, Tales of Two Sisters. The title tells you a lot. This book with a long descriptive title took an unusual and interesting path to publication. I am excited for you to hear about it. I loved Dianne's dedication in the book "To my inimitable sister, Chris Bilyak, thanks for making my life fun, for always singing with me in the car, for 'liking me a lot', and teaching me that dancing can solve most problems." You can find the book through Dianne's website, and get a glimpse of the sister's relationship today on the Nothing Special Book Facebook Page. Thanks for listening! http://diannebilyak.com/
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Today's featured story is from Edgar Award Nominee Joseph S. Walker. The Edgar Allan Poe Awards are presented every year by the Mystery Writers of America. The short story Joe chose for the podcast is titled Mercy. It was inspired by the growled word 'mercy' in the the Roy Orbison song Pretty Woman. It's published in a clever anthology called Peace, Love and Crime where each story draws inspiration from a song of the '60s. Listen to why Joe enjoys contributing to anthologies and what essential thing he fights for everyday. You can find all his published work through his website and find the anthology with Mercy in it at Untreed Reads Publishing. Thanks for listening. Joseph S. Walker Crime Writer : https://jsw47408.wixsite.com/website Peace, Love, and Crime (paperback) edited by Sandra Murphy : Untreed Reads Publishing
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Our featured story this week is from Laura Kemp. Border Song is set in Oklahoma, a long way from Laura's Michigan based Yellow Wood series. She explains how she feels about nature - especially the wild places. And, she talks about being a spooky storyteller at heart. You can find her books on her website and check out the world she has created at 'Kemp Camp' on FB. Thanks for listening. https://laurakempbooks.com/
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Todays featured story is from Robert Gwaltney. It's a special excerpt from his debut novel The Cicada Tree. Before the story, we talk about how powerful early childhood experiences can be, what advice his granny Louise gave him about where to sit, and what music influenced him while he was writing The Cicada Tree. After the story, hearing about his essential things will make you want to reach out and be friends! You can find him on Facebook, and I highly recommend you check out his website and blog. The Cicada Tree will be released in January 2022. Thanks for listening. https://robertlgwaltney.com/
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Today's featured story is from Melissa Face and her collection of parenting essays called I Love You More Than Coffee. Her book celebrates early motherhood, but it's not just for new moms reaching for their coffee. It's also for moms looking back and remembering. Melissa is quick to smile and laugh, a joy to talk to. Listen to why she's glad she wrote these essays, how her daughter's confidence makes her say wow, and when she felt the cosmic shift of motherhood - that moment of no longer feeling like the center of her own universe. You can find her book and her schedule of coffee and library talks on her website. She also shared a great picture of her and her kids that we will put on the Desideratum Facebook page. Thanks for listening. https://melissaface.com/
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Our featured story comes from Alison Ragsdale, a proud Scot lass, who writes emotionally charged novels that often require tissues. I want you to listen to how her own personal resets - adapting to her life's unexpected events - shapes her characters and her storytelling. I love what she says about supporting characters grounding her stories and the gift her father gave her that shows up in her characters lives. She has lived a global life and walked a winding path... Alison's latest novel Her Last Chance launched this month. You can find it and all her novels on her website. http://www.alisonragsdale.com/ I'll post a picture of Alison in Scotland on the Desideratum Podcast website. https://desideratumpodcast.com/ Thanks for listening.
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The featured story this week is from Marylee Macdonald's collection of short stories Body Language: Twelve unforgettable portraits of heartbreak and desire. The story is brought to life by her talented audiobook narrator Adam Barr. Marylee's work in this collection is about the solace of touch and it's connection to well being. She also talks about place and how she uses it to put her characters in uncomfortable situations. Why she does this, turns out to be very personal for her. Her ideas about nature and nurture and love are rooted in her experiences with adoption. Listen for what she has to say about identity, motherhood and the physicality of creativity. You can find her novels, her short story collections and the ways she helps other authors with their writing, publishing and marketing on her website. maryleemacdonaldauthor.com You can find out more about narrator Adam Barr and connect to his extensive library of audiobooks on his website. https://www.adambarrnarration.com/
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Our featured story Ignorance or Innocence is from Johnnie Bernhard. It will be included in an anthology of short stories about home, in September, 2021. Johnnie wrote this story awhile ago, before her successful novels. Unlike her novels, this story is autobiographical, set in a small Texas town where she moved in 8th grade. It's kind of a story about being an outsider, but Johnnie has this way of seeing the 'Gift' in things, even hard things like loneliness. You will hear why she starts every story with character and family and what part of writing she equates to a runner's high - it's fantastic. She's fantastic and she's clearly doing what she was meant to do. After you listen... you can listen to her TEDTalk here, https://www.ted.com/talks/johnnie_bernhard_the_human_story You can find links to purchase her novels and audiobook on her website. http://www.johnniebernhardauthor.com/ You can find her mentoring writers through Gemini Ink https://geminiink.org/ And, you can see a lovely picture she shared of her and her mom Loula Mae taken on Johnnie's wedding day. We will share it on the Desideratum FB page. Thanks for listening.
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Our featured story comes from Steve Wiegenstein's twelve story collection Scattered Lights. Like Steve, the characters in these stories are deeply rooted in the Ozarks. Yet through his storytelling, he unearths something more universal than regional in each human motivation and interaction. In Unexplained Aerial Phenomena the character Janine says, "Every story fills a need." I hope after you listen, you feel the need to read all of Steve's stories from this collection and from his series of historical novels. You can find them on his website where you can also read 'whatever he feels like writing about' on his blog. Congratulations to Steve on Scattered Lights being named a Finalist for the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction 2021. Thanks for listening. https://www.stevewiegenstein.com/ , https://www.penfaulkner.org/2021/03/02/announcing-the-finalists-for-the-2021-pen-faulkner-award-for-fiction/
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In this season of rebirth and renewal, when new beginnings are announced by every budding leaf and celebrated by every spectacular bloom; it is the perfect time to meet Ann Parker and hear her perspective on seasons, bravery, truth and essential things. Her featured story is called Thirteen Seconds. It's about a plane crash. It is just one of many stories in Ann's practical and deeply personal book Follow Me to Alaska. Look for Ann on social media @annparkerfollowmetoalaska, and @realalaska2day. You can see some of her breathtaking videos on her YouTube channel (Follow Me to Alaska Ann Parker). Her book and audio book are on sale on her website https://followmetoalaska.com/ and on Amazon and Audible. We shared one of our favorite pictures of Ann on the Desideratum Facebook Page @desideratumpodcast. Thanks for listening.
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A talk with Daniel Wade is a walk on a wandering path. Come along as he talks about the sea, about Ireland's long history of storytelling and about how we should all be looking for a lighthouse. The featured story is from Embers and Earth, Daniel's spoken word album. Aperture is about Daniel's grandmother and darkness. I am grateful to hear it in his own voice. Daniel is a poet, a playwright, a debut novelist and like all of us, he's hard to put in one category. As he says, he's something in between. You can hear more and read more of Daniel's storytelling on his website (www.danielwade.ie) . Follow him @danielwadeauthor or @wadeinthewate11 on FB, Instagram, Twitter, Youtube, Spotify, Apple Music and SoundCloud. You can find the Baudelaire 200 Years Literary Festival on FB @Baudelaire200Years. And, on the Desideratum FB page @DesideratumPodcast, you can find a picture of Daniel's grandmother Phyllis on vacation a long time ago - on a boat in the NY harbor - surrounded by light. Thank you for listening.
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Today you will get to know author Mandy Haynes and hear her story Something More about a little girl named Jewell who sees beauty in small things and who is truly more precious than diamonds and rubies. Mandy Haynes is an author of literary fiction with a southern drawl. Her official tag line is "Hell, we cain't all be saints." You can find her books Walking the Wrong Way Home and Sharp as a Serpent's Tooth: Eva and Other Stories wherever you buy your books and on her website https://mandyhaynes.com/ You can keep up with Mandy's latest projects on social media @mandywrites. And after you listen to the podcast, you might want to hear Miss Twiggley's Tree, https://www.pbs.org/video/georgia-read-more-miss-twiggleys-tree/. Thank you for listening. 15OUqZZqVWdKY3jyXXEg
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