Book Talk with Cara Putman
By Cara Putman
Book Talk with Cara PutmanJul 30, 2021
128: Jaime Jo Wright
Jaime Jo Wright is no stranger to Book Talk or to award-winning fiction, so it is delightful to have her back for a conversation about her latest novel Night Falls on Predicament Avenue. We talk about everything from how she comes up with her spooky ideas. I love how she pulls ideas from newspaper stories and so much more. We also talked about whether the contemporary or historical thread tries to take over when she's writing her split-time novels.
This was one of her most difficult books to write for many reasons. One was the challenge of connecting the internal and external journeys of the characters. As she talks about the process, she'd tell her younger writing self to not get caught up in the mechanics of writing. And unpopular opinion: Jaime watches TV or she stops being productive. Let that give you the freedom to do what works for you.
You'll love this interview and getting to know Jaime in a new way.
Connect with Jaime Jo Wright
127: Sarah Loudin Thomas
In today's episode of Book Talk with Cara, it's a delight to introduce you to Sarah Loudin Thomas and take you behind the scenes of her latest book These Tangled Threads. I so enjoyed chatting with her because we talked about a novel set at one of my favorite locations, the Biltmore Estate. What I didn't know before our conversation was that Sarah had worked at the Biltmore for about six years, and that love and passion for the history of America's castle comes through loud and clear.
She also works with youth, and her experience working with children who have overcome trauma and abandonment is woven through These Tangled Threads as well. Her passion for uncovering and weaving these Appalachian-based stories is so real and captivating. There is an energy that comes through in the way she talks about them. Each evening she writes one thousand words as she builds to her story. And that rhythm leads to the book. Her advice to new writers. Just do it. You'll get to your book.
I hope you enjoy this look at the story behind Sarah's latest novel These Tangled Threads.
Connect with Sarah Loudin Thomas
126: Heather Kaufman
Sometimes there's an episode where there's just a depth that comes out, and this is one of them. Today I'm delighted to introduce you to my new writing friend Heather Kaufman. There are some books that you can't walk away from writing and Up From Dust was one of those books for Heather. The story of Martha, it's a book that she felt a strong sense of stewardship when she was writing it. Martha was the recipient of one of the seven I am statements from Jesus, and I loved digging into the challenges and joys of taking a piece of the Bible and expanding it beyond the verses while also being very aware of the solemn responsibility. Heather is so delightful and we had such fun talking about writing and the joy that comes in getting a sentence just written and the challenge of not getting stuck in perfectionism. The way she writes from broad strokes. And how she writes around a very busy, young family. You're going to walk away from watching or listening to this episode encouraged and eager to read Up From Dust. I can't wait to hear what you think!
Connect with Heather Kaufman
125: Roseanna White
Do you love a novel that incorporates the Edwardian period, romance, and mystery? Then you will love the latest novel and series by Roseanna White. In this episode of Book Talk, I loved chatting with Roseanna about her latest novel A Noble Scheme, and her writing in general. Roseanna and her husband run a small publishing house while she also writes full-time, so Roseanna brings a unique perspective to the writing world. I have to tell you I have been aching to get my hands on this book since I read the first in this series, and she surprised me with some of the twists.
A Noble Scheme is a beautifully told story of wrestling with grief and trust. It invites us into a high-stakes gambit to find a kidnapped boy, but also welcomes us to explore deep themes in a wonderfully hope-filled way. This book starts with a dream, and it's woven so wonderfully that it's hard for me to imagine it starting with that sort of what-if. It honestly makes me jealous. I know you're going to love this opportunity to learn more about Roseanna, her books, and her writing process.
Y'all, this was such a great conversation, the time flew by and I know you'll love meeting Roseanna. I can't wait to hear your thoughts about our conversation. And if you haven't read either book in this series do so -- and stay tuned for a giveaway of the first. I truly adore it!
Connect with Roseanna M. White
124: Karen Witemeyer
I've never considered myself a cowboy romance person, but I do consider myself an avid Karen Witemeyer book reader. Her books launch to the top of my TBR pile with each release, so it's a delight to welcome her back to Book Talk. Today we are chatting about where she found her inspiration for cowboy romance — and it goes deeper than living in Texas, y'all.
I loved digging into her latest series, based on retellings of fairy tales. But these fairy tales have all kinds of twists — and not just from being set in Texas on a ranch. She wants to redeem traditional villains, add in some booted fun and so much more. It's fun because Karen always knew she wanted to be a reader, but she didn't realize she also wanted to be a writer until later in her life. Since then she's written so many award-winning novels, that I had to ask what her advice to her younger self (or new authors) would be. Her words? Try to take the pressure off. So good!
There's so much gold and fun in this chapter of Book Talk. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Connect with Karen Witemeyer
123: Steven James
From the moment I read my first Patrick Bowers novel, I've been a huge fan of Steven James' books. Then I met him at ThrillerFest. Since then we've interacted through ACFW and other organizations, and I've come to admire Steven as a master writer and teacher of writing. That's why I'm excited to introduce you to Steven in this episode of Book Talk. In his latest novel, Broker of Lies, Steven has created a hero who isn't an action hero. Unlike Patrick Bowers, who is a profiler in the FBI, Travis Brock is an attorney who is a redactor of FOIA requests for the Pentagon. In Fatal Domain, Brock and the rest of the Red Team are back and on a hunt that leads Travis deeper into a collision with his past. One of the things I love about Steven's books is the way they twist and turn, and this one is no exception. He's showing us what might be possible with tech and taking us to a place where we might feel uncomfortable. In this episode, Steven and I talk about the books, but we also talk about his writing process. For Steven, it's always about the characters first and then the story emerges as he writes. He calls story a collision of desires. What is pursued? and What setbacks and desires occur along the way? What would make an honest response for the character in that situation? I also love how Steven talks about wanting the climax to be a moment where he has written himself into a corner and has to find a way out. He wants to play to readers' expectations and then twist them. These are just a few of the techniques Steven shares with us in this chapter of Book Talk with Cara. I can't wait to hear what you think and if you've read any of his books.
Connect with Steven James
122: Angela Bell
Today it is such fun to introduce you to my friend and debut author Angela Bell. There is something so sweet about that first, full-length book, and when you tackle something that blends Around the World in 80 Days with Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies you get the wonder and magic of A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventures. Y'all, I loved this novel. It was such fun with Victorian whimsy and a hint of steampunk. Historical romance, heavy on wonder and fun. Mystery with a tinge of suspense. Romance with a dollop of travel. There is unexpected depth to the hero and heroine as they both wrestle with the demons of feeling isolated and alone. The fantastical journey they embark on is a wonderous race around 1860 Europe, but it's also an exploration to learn about themselves. I so loved this carefully constructed, intricately timed journey of exploration and fun with hints of suspense and fun. Wait! I'm gushing. In our chat, we explored how her desire to travel shows up in this novel as well as how her love for the hero's war injury impacts him. We explore how she knew she was an author and the advice she would give her younger writing self. It was such fun to connect over this fun story, and I can't wait to hear what you think. Have you read it yet?
Connect with Angela Bell
Facebook | Instagram | Newsletter
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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121: Elizabeth Camden
Do you love a novel that incorporates the Gilded Age, romance, and mystery? Then you will love reading novels by Elizabeth Camden. In this episode of Book Talk, I loved chatting with Elizabeth about her latest novel While the City Sleeps, and her writing in general. As a former university business librarian, Elizabeth brings a unique perspective to her research and books. She's incorporating the emerging technology of the Gilded Age, with business and strong women to create a different type of tension. All of that comes together in While the City Sleeps, a novel in which the heroine is a dentist -- love that!
When you're weaving a story with three strands (romance, history, and mystery), sometimes one wants to take over. You'll learn which one wanted to take over in While the City Sleeps as well as why a writer might knowingly have to make a mistake in the history for the sake of the story or readers. We also talked about my favorite books of hers as well as how rejection was a process that taught her to be a better writer. Y'all, this was such an enjoyable conversation, the time flew by and I know you'll love meeting Elizabeth and getting to know her and her books.
Connect with Elizabeth Camden
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120: Mitch Albom
Today it's a delight to introduce you to Mitch Albom. I have enjoyed each of his books that I have read including Tuesdays with Morrie and The Stranger in the Lifeboat, so I was intrigued by his latest novel The Little Liar. We live in a day where truth can feel so elusive and difficult to find, that the theme of truth is critically important. Then I saw that the book starts during World War II and I was hooked. Y'all know, I am a student of that time period and write books set then, but the war in Greece was new and fascinating to me.
The pursuit of truth and the impacts of twisting truth are so brilliantly woven into this novel. I loved learning how Mitch approaches the theme and story. This conversation felt like a twenty-minute masterclass in some ways while also being so engaging. There are decisions we make as writers, and he lets us behind the curtain into some of the decisions he made while writing The Little Liar. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.
Thanks for joining us for this episode of Book Talk. You'll be inspired! And be sure to share it and the book with a friend.
Connect with Mitch Albom
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For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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119: Mary Connealy
It's always such fun to chat with my friend Mary Connealy. She's at 75 books, y'all. 75! Our careers have run on parallel tracks, so I am truly in awe of the way she writes so many books that are all so unique with strong heroines, and cowboys. The secrets to her success? One thousand words a day and research is one of her favorite things to do.
The core research for her latest novel Chasing the Horizon came from a book called The Woman Who Wouldn't be Silenced. I found that fascinating because I had seen this book several times and picked it up, but hadn't read it yet. Let me tell you, I cannot wait to read it now. But that book served as the string board for a series of what-ifs that became Chasing the Horizon.
Mary's advice to new writers? Be consistent and write a bit each day. Her passion for this story and all of her books comes out loud and clear as we chat in this latest installment of Book Talk with Cara.
Connect with Mary Connealy
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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118: Dani Pettrey
Who doesn't love a good romantic suspense? Especially when it blends romance with suspense in a way that welcomes the reader back to the pages again and again?
That's why I love reading my friend Dani Pettrey's novels. It was such fun to welcome her back to Book Talk as we talked about the first book in her new Jeopardy Falls series. Set in New Mexico, One Wrong Move takes readers on a ride through the insurance world — with an ensemble cast that is a Dani Pettrey trademark. It was fun learning how she balances the main story with the additional threads — and what she does with all the scenes and chapters she has to cut.
In this episode, she also talks about her biggest challenge as a writer — writing instinctually which makes for lots of drafts. And her best advice for herself as a young writer is to balance her time better earlier because that doesn't get easier with later drafts. These are just a couple of the gems she shares with us in this chapter of Book Talk with Cara. I can't wait to hear what you think and if you've read One Wrong Move. I loved it!
Connect with Dani Pettrey
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117: Sarah Sundin and Amanda Barratt
Today it's so much fun to introduce you to Sarah Sundin and Amanda Barratt. These two write amazing World War II fiction, the kind that pulls you in, yanks out your heart, and leaves you thinking hard about what you've read. They each illuminate different parts of the war and are meticulous at bringing the details of real stories to the page. In this episode, we discuss their newest books. Amanda's is The Warsaw Sisters, set in Poland during the war, and Sarah gushes about it. Sarah's is Embers in the London Sky and involves a Dutch mother who is separated from her three-year-old during the Blitz. They each talk about the joys (Amanda: finding the stories of resistance, Sarah: her characters in particular the hero), and the way they structure their days when writing.
And in the end, they both give fabulous advice for their younger selves and current writers. You won't want to miss a word. Thanks for joining us for this episode of Book Talk. You'll be inspired!
Connect with Sarah Sundin
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Connect with Amanda Barratt
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Goodreads | BookBub
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116: Jerry B. Jenkins
It's a delight to bring you this conversation with my new writing friend Jerry B. Jenkins. We've been in the same published writing group for years. But it was such fun to hop on Zoom and talk about his latest book, The Chosen Book Three. We talked about working with his son Dallas, writing the book after the production, which is the flip, and so much more. It was enlightening to hear his heart for this work and what God is showing him in the writing. There is such care in the process. There's also such fun in the writing and the choices. Jerry's been writing for 50 years, and he is a pro. But this is a calling. Writing has always been a calling, but there's a special add-on to this new work. I can't wait to hear your thoughts as you listen in.
Connect with Jerry B. Jenkins
Facebook
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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115: Amy Lynn Green
Today it's so much fun to have my friend Amy Lynn Green. She writes beautiful stories set during WWII often in homefront settings. Today we're talking about her brand new release The Foxhole Victory Tour. Y'all, I adored this story set in a small USO tour — the ensemble tour is wonderful and the setting is unique with most of it being in North Africa. We had so much fun talking about the challenges and fun of writing a story with so many characters — she ends up writing so much more than you read. We talked about how she knew she was a writer and the advice she would give herself if she could go back in time. She also told me that she finds joy in the process of overwriting and then editing down to the core story. It works so well for her books and for us as readers. This is such a fun conversation. You'll love this chance to get to know Amy and her books. You won't want to miss a word. Thanks for joining us for this episode of Book Talk. You'll be inspired!
Connect with Amy Lynn Green
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For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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114: Laura Frantz
Today it is such fun to introduce you to my friend Laura Frantz. She is an award-winning author of historical romances, and we're talking about her latest novel The Seamstress of Acadie. This book is set in Canada with the French Acadians and follows the story of people who are sent from their homes in Canada to Louisiana and beyond. It's a story that will pull at your heart.
Because she wrote this book during the pandemic, Laura wasn't able to do the on-site research that she usually does. That meant her research had to take different turns. Still, it's deeply embedded in the real experiences and that vitality comes out in the story. You'll enjoy hearing about the joys and challenges of her research as well as learning about a fun summer opportunity to travel to London with Laura and Pepper Basham in June 2024. The Quill and Tea Tour sounds like so much fun and is going to some of my favorite places in England including York, Oxford, and London. Finally, you won't want to miss her writing advice if you're an aspiring or current writer.
Connect with Laura Frantz
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For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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113: Sarah Brunsvold
Today it is such fun to introduce you to my friend Sara Brunsvold. She is an award-winning author of gripping stories that I'd call contemporary women's fiction or saga. They bend genres in the best possible way, and readers agree wholeheartedly. Her first novel The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip is finaling and winning all sorts of awards, and today we're talking about her second The Divine Proverb of Streusel. This novel is laced with recipes that sound amazing and the wisdom of a great-grandmother that guides Nikki as she reconnects with her heritage and more.
You'll truly enjoy this opportunity to meet Sara and learn more about her books and how she is inspired to find these stories. Each author has a unique journey to publication and story discovery, and I loved learning about hers. I think you will too!
Connect with Sara Brunsvold
Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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112: Lynette Eason
It is a delight to have my friend Lynette Eason back to talk about her latest novel Double Take. I loved this novel. It's a bit of a departure for Lynette because it's more of a psychological suspense than her other books. It's all about the mind games. But that made it a fun, twisty read in a fresh way. Double Take does a beautiful job highlighting that we don't need to let the past define us and that we can believe in ourselves even when the evidence seems to point in a different direction.
Not only is Lynette an incredible author of award-winning, best-selling romantic suspense, but she recently started agenting. She's been a great mentor and writing teacher, so this is a natural extension of the work she does. What's some of the advice she would give to her younger writing self and to you? Don't be quite so obsessive and take care of your physical self, too.
I think you'll enjoy this interview. Thanks so much for tuning in!
Connect with Lynette Eason
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For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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111: TBR Recommendations
In this episode of Book Talk with Cara, I wanted to do something fun and different. I thought I'd show you some of my favorite authors. These are the ones whose books I preorder so that going to my mailbox feels like Christmas year-round. These authors are from a variety of genres and I always enjoy their books. If you're looking for a book recommendation, these authors are a great place to start:
- Bethany Turner: contemporary rom-com
- Pepper Basham: love them all but her current series are a blast
- Jen Turano: adore her fun Gilded Age historicals
- Rachel Hauck: always a good choice but love her supernatural fairy tales
- Becky Wade: the best contemporary romance
- Mary Connealy: western romances are always an enjoyable read
- Beth Vogt: so good
- Colleen Coble: the best romantic mysteries. Love them!
- Natalie Walter: SNAP agency series has been perfect!
- Sarah Sundin: the queen of WWII in my opinion right now.
- Kristy Cambron: also writes great WWII (even though I'm adding her as I type!)
Want to watch this episode? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
110: BTS - Stars in the Night
Do you ever wonder why an author writes the story they do?
Some books are a favorite, even though I really do hate to admit that. There's just something about them that makes them special and unique. Stars in the Night is one of those for me. This was the first full-length novel I got to write and it blended my love of WWII and suspense. I call this my 1942 Hollywood collides with Murder on the Orient Express novel. It's grounded in a real event, only I created a fictional second one, because...well...bodies. I dive into the real events and how I had fun creating a second one and research detours. I'd love to know if topics and settings like this intrigue you because I'm always thinking about what I'm writing next.
Have you read Stars in the Night? What did you think?
Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
If you enjoyed this conversation, I would be thrilled if you left a rating and review on your favorite podcast app and leave me a note below letting me know who you would love to see on the show!
109: BTS - Lethal Intent
Do you ever wonder why an author writes the story they do?
Caroline's story was a long time coming. Originally I thought, her book would be book 3 in the Hidden Justice series. Then book four. Then it ended up being this novel, Lethal Intent. It was well worth the wait. I had so much fun telling this friends-to-more love story between Caroline and Brandon. But like all of my romantic legal suspense, it's so much more than a romance. This book is deeply embedded in the legal and ethical wranglings of cutting-edge medical technology and research. It also wrestles with how far should we go to save a child. I like asking the easy questions. I adore Brandon as a hero. He is so heroic and self-sacrificing in all the right ways. I think you'll love reading Caroline and Brandon's story.
Have you read Lethal Intent? What did you think?
108: BTS - Flight Risk
Do you ever wonder why an author writes the story they do?
Every once in a while as an author, you get to write a book that you know is going to be special. Flight Risk was one of those books. I knew that before it finaled in two major awards. Today I'm taking you behind the scenes of Flight Risk from the moment my editor told me that Savannah needed her own book to me figuring out what that could look like. I expanded and twisted up a real plane crash in the DC area and added a layer about what is it like to find truth in a fake news world. It's another book that seemed crazily pulled from the headlines after I wrote it. . . almost in a way that you can't make up. Savannah is an older heroine; instead of turning 30, she's turning 40 and I love that about her. She's so secure and settled in a healthy way. She was sooooo much fun to write. And the hero Jett was a blast, too. The last page... Smoking!
Have you read Flight Risk? What did you think?
Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
107: BTS - Delayed Justice
Do you ever wonder why an author writes the story they do?
Today I want to take you behind the scenes of my book Delayed Justice. It's the only book that comes with a trigger warning. In fact, I wrote the prologue the way I did to quickly let readers know that this book deals with a sensitive issue that isn't for every reader. It was very important to me to deal with it in a careful way that honors readers and people who have walked the road while also acknowledging I haven't. I used many readers who work with this population as well as those who have to make sure I did that well.
While this story is gritty and real, I am also committed to always layering hope into my books. I firmly believe that even in the dark, God is there. This tells the story of a woman who goes after her abuser now that she is no longer a child. Like the other books in this series, there is a theme of protecting children.
Have you read Delayed Justice? What did you think
106: BTS - Imperfect Justice
Do you ever wonder why an author writes the story they do?
Today I'm taking you behind the scenes of my story Imperfect Justice. In many ways, this is a very personal story for me. I had worked with domestic violence clients and walked friends through situations. Then I saw articles that put a spin on the story. Twist it up and I had so many layers coming together in my mind for this novel. It's an important one because it's an issue the church doesn't know how to handle. And it's real life. I also wanted to handle it well while remembering this is fiction and meant to entertain. So you've got a great hero, one of my favorite heroines, and a child. This is about the time I realized this series was going to be about different aspects of protecting children. It took me longer than it probably should have to recognize that thread!
Have you read Imperfect Justice? Let me know what you think!
105: BTS - Beyond Justice
Do you ever wonder why an author writes the story they do?
Today I'm taking you behind the scenes of my story Beyond Justice. There were so many layers coming together in my mind for this story. I love it in so many ways. It's an important one and not just because it's my first official legal suspense. Add in DC, a great hero, and so much of my early career, and it was a fun one to write and create.
Have you read Beyond Justice? Let me know what you think!
104: BTS - Across The Shores
Do you ever wonder where authors get their ideas?
Today I share the story behind the story for my novella Love Along the Shores in the Across the Shores collection that was released in April 2023. The authors for this collection were on the show earlier this summer, which was such fun, but now I wanted to give you more about why I wanted to dive into this particular story from WWII. This was a story I first had the idea for back in 2011 or 2012, but that doesn't mean it was a quick research when I sat down. In fact, the trickiest part was figuring out exactly which of the Outer Banks islands to place it on. Once I got that identified, the rest came together pretty quickly because I knew the history and the characters.
103: BTS - Come What May
Do you ever wonder where authors get their ideas?
Today I share the story behind the story for my novel The Art of Deception in the Come What May collection that was released in August 2023. It's a story that's unique for me because it's part of an indie collection, meaning I didn't have a contract with a traditional publisher but came together with many of my writer friends for this collection of 12 novels in three volumes. I talk about why I did that and why it can make sense to do that as part of my overall publishing strategy. I also talk about how this is part of the larger build-up to my next novel which will be released in April 2024. This was one of those stories I wanted to write. As I was researching I kept coming back to art as money laundering and found it FASCINATING. I love art. And I love suspense. And this seemed like an interesting way to tie the two together -- and a way that I hadn't seen written about in other books. I could probably write a whole series just focused on this area, but there's at least this book. :-) I've also got ideas for another series, so I'm asking for your input at the end of the episode. Let me know what you think!
102: BTS - We Three Kings
Do you ever wonder where authors get their ideas? Today I share the story behind the story for my novella Beauty Bright in the We Three Kings collection that releases in September 2023. It's a story that's near to my heart because it's set in the days after WWII in Germany and involves the Monuments Men. It also ties to my contemporary series that launches in April 2024. I loved writing in this collection and returning to my WWII roots. I hope you enjoy seeing and hearing some of my passion for the story and the research that goes into writing a book like this. Have you read a book set in the days immediately after the war? One set in the race to return the art to those who had lost it? I'd love to know if topics and settings like this intrigue you because I'm always thinking about what I'm writing next.
101: Across the Shores Collection Authors
It was so much fun to write a novella in this collection, and it was just as much fun to bring you this episode where we talk about our stories and how they connect. Across the Shores is a novella collection that has a cross necklace that connects four women across generations and continents. It was such a delight to write with Carolyn Miller, Angela Crouch, and Kelly Goshorn. In this episode we talk about how we find our story ideas, what's easier to write (heroes or heroines), and whether we're pantsers or plotters. We also talk about research surprises. I hope you enjoy learning about these ladies and our collection.
Connect with Carolyn Miller
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | BookBub
Connect with Angela Crouch
Twitter
Connect with Kelly Goshorn
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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The 100th Episode Celebration with Cara Putman and Pepper Basham
Y'all, I never thought we'd get here. When I started Book Talk, I didn't have a vision for a podcast that would become this. Today to mix it up, my good friend Pepper Basham is interviewing me. It was so fun to share some of my writing journey, my passion for helping authors, and why I write the kinds of books that I do. We also talked about story, how she writes, and how we love teaching together. It was such fun -- even if a bit strange -- to be on this side of the interview process. And if you haven't read any of Pepper's books yet, you'll see why she's one of my dearest writing friends. I adore her books almost as much as I adore her.
Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
If you enjoyed this conversation, I would be thrilled if you left a rating and review on your favorite podcast app!
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099: Toni Shiloh
Life doesn't always go the way we want it to. If you've lived any amount of time, then you know that. What I love about Toni Shiloh's novels with Bethany House is that they are spiritual or Hollywood fairy tales. They capture that idea of finding a prince or a star who thinks we're beautiful and worthwhile. They see the value in us that we can't quite find. I love this chance to catch up with Toni and talk about her books and the characters she's bringing to life. Y'all, I could not put the Love Script down because I love Neavah. Lamont wasn't so bad himself, but Neavah was the type of heroine I can imagine being friends with. I hope you enjoy this conversation with Toni about her books, imposter syndrome, wondering where the next idea will come from, and much more.
Connect with Toni Shiloh
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Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
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097: Crystal Caudill and Angela Ruth Strong
Have you ever wondered what it's like to write in a novella collection when the authors intentionally connect the stories closely? That's exactly what Crystal Caudill, Angela Strong, and I did for our collection We Three Kings which releases in September 2023. In this episode of Book Talk, we talk about how we got the ideas for our novellas, how they are connected, and what we incorporated into the stories. It was a real joy to write with Crystal and Angela, and you'll enjoy meeting them and learning more about their books. Of course, we also talk about writing too. Since we all right different genres and time periods, it's fun to compare notes on how we do what we do. I hope you enjoy this edition of Book Talk!
Connect with Crystal Caudill
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Connect with Angela Ruth Strong
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Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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098: Kathleen Denly
Today it is a pleasure to introduce you to my writing friend Kathleen Denly. Her historical fiction is set in 1850s San Diego County California, and you'll enjoy getting to learn more about her passion for discovering little-known aspects of California's history and transforming it into a story. We also enjoyed talking about her family's adoption journey and how that found its way into a couple of her novels including her most recent Murmur in the Mudcaves. If you enjoy novels by Tracie Peterson, Kimberley Woodhouse, and Karen Witemeyer, then you will enjoy this chance to learn about Kathleen and what she loves about writing (the discovery and brainstorming process) and what drives her crazy (all the details!). You'll also enjoy her novels which transport you back in time.
Connect with Kathleen Denly
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Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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096: DiAnn Mills
It is my absolute delight to introduce you to my writing friend DiAnn Mills. I met DiAnn at my very first ACFW in 2005 when I attended one of the workshops on plotting and brainstorming. I have loved her and her books ever since. In this episode, we talk about her upcoming book Facing the Enemy, and how it's a healing book for her because it touches on a tragic experience in her life. More than that, it's an example of her suspense with romance which is set in her hometown of Houston. That launched us into a conversation about how she loves to use setting to create havoc for her main characters and she gives some great examples. She also gives her top 4 writing tips for readers. You'll have to watch to catch them in detail: but they are that you need to read, write, learn, and pray every day.
Connect with DiAnn Mills
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Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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095: Rachel Hauck
Connecting with my friend Rachel Hauck is always a joy, and it's always a delight to have her on Book Talk. This episode is no different. When we hit record, you get to eavesdrop on our conversation about stories as art and characters as joy. Rachel starts with a theme but not necessarily a spiritual thread, that will come later. Then the story idea will hit her later. In the process, the big idea will hit.
I also love that Rachel wants to introduce readers to a relationship with Jesus, not the church. Isn't that a cool distinction? The church is filled with people, and that means we will be let down and disappointed at some point in time. But Jesus is different. So very different. You'll enjoy this conversation and look behind the scenes into Rachel's next book the Best Summer of Our Lives.
Connect with Rachel Hauck
Facebook | Twitter | BookBub | Instagram
Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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094: Kristen Parnell
In many episodes, I've introduced you to my writing friends that I've known for a long time. In this episode, I have the privilege of introducing you to a new friend Kristen Parnell. It was such fun to talk about books and writing with this author who highlights that while we don't get to choose the situations of our lives, we do get to choose our response to situations in her books. We've both experienced the pain of miscarriage and that has highlighted the way life and its plot points can be outside of our control. Yet our response is not. That experience appears in her stories where a common theme is that faith is an adventure. When you read Take My Hand, her 7th published novel, you will certainly walk away with that idea!
Kristen is an author who often starts with 60-70% of her novel plotted and then lets the story take over and I think you will enjoy her writing as much as I have. I definitely enjoyed this opportunity to connect with her and learn more about her books and her writing process and know you'll enjoy it too.
Connect with Kristen Parnell
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Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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093: Roseanna White, Gabrielle Meyer, & Misty M. Beller
Y'all, I had so much fun connecting with my friends Misty Beller, Gabrielle Meyer, & Roseanna White. They each write historical fiction set in different time periods. Gabrielle Meyer's latest In This Moment is set during the beginnings of the Civil War, WWII, and the days leading up to 9/11. Roseanna White's A Beautiful Disguise is set in 1909 with an acrobatic set of aristocratic investigators — such fun. And Misty Beller's Rocky Mountain Rendezvous is set during the trader's rendezvous in 1837. After marveling at how much these homeschooling mamas who have each written more than 30 books have in common, we quickly turned to their books and how they developed the ideas for them. Idea sparks are a key part of the writing process. Often for the four of us, our best ideas for new books and series come from the research for the next series. And if you listen very carefully, you might just pick up an idea of what's coming next for each of these talented authors. I enjoy each of their books and can't wait for you to meet them!
Connect with Misty Beller
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Connect with Gabrielle Meyer
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Connect with Roseanna White
Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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092: TI Lowe
Sometimes you want a book that is richly layered with the best of stories. Author TI Lowe's next novel Indigo Isle is that. Inspired by the Prodigal Son and Beauty and the Beast, this story gripped my heart and didn't let go. I really enjoyed the opportunity to connect with TI and learn more about her journey to publication and how she finds her stories. We talked about the importance of research and how it can be hard when researching tough topics like abusive relationships and what it's like when someone doesn't fight or fight, but freezes. We discussed the importance of respecting the experience of others when we write and how she makes space to walk away when the writing is hard. But we also talked about her love of the South infuses her books. You'll hear it in her accent and in the way she writes about Charleston and the surrounding islands. You can also learn about the books she's reading right now.
Connect with TI Lowe
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Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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091: Jaime Jo Wright
Y'all, it was such fun to reconnect with my writing friend Jaime Jo Wright. Since the last time she was on Book Talk, she's released two books: The Vanishing at Castle Moreau and Premonition at Withers Farm. We talked all about her inspiration for Castle Moreau — Neuschwanstein in Bavaria, the Hungarian countess who was the inspiration for her villain, and why she writes gothic novels. We also talked about which comes first for her: Setting or Plot. The answer might surprise you. I think you'll enjoy this peek behind the curtain into her writing process and her latest novel.
Connect with Jaime Jo Wright
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok | YouTube
Want to watch this interview? You can see this episode as well as multiple others on YouTube! Enjoy!
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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090: Angela Hunt & Connilyn Cossette
Have you ever wondered what it was like to write Biblical fiction? Wondered how authors got their ideas? Then I'm so glad you can join us for this book talk with Angie Hunt and Connilyn Cossette. In this episode, we discuss many aspects of writing from how they find ideas to how they plot to how they use Scrivener (both are huge fans!). It was such a fun conversation, and I hope you enjoy it!
Connect with Angela Hunt
Connect Connilyn Cossette
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089: Crystal Caudill
It's always fun to introduce you to new authors, and Crystal Caudill is an author whose second and third books release this spring. She's also a coauthor with me on a novella collection that releases later this fall. It's been such fun to get to know her through writing together, and it was fun to talk with her about her books Counterfeit Hope and Counterfeit Love. Crystal writes deeply atmospheric novels that are set during the Gilded Age with the Secret Service. She is a detailed researcher and it comes out in the way readers are immersed in the time period and career. I had such fun talking games and writing process with her and think you'll really enjoy getting to know Crystal!
Connect with Crystal Caudill
Facebook | Instagram | GoodReads | BookBub
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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088: Melody Carlson
Today's guest, Melody Carlson, is the author of more than 200 novels for teens and women. Several of her novels have also been adapted into movies for Hallmark and other channels — on many authors' bucket lists! In this Book Talk, we chatted about where she gets her ideas, what you can expect when you pick up her recent novels, as well as her most recent novel Second Time Around. If you love DIY shows, then you will enjoy this sweet romance. I also picked her brain about screenplays and what it's like to turn her novels into that version of themselves. We chatted about which comes first plot or characters and if she's a plotter or pantser. I think you'll love getting to know this prolific author, who has more than 7.5 million copies of her books in print.
Connect with Melody Carlson
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Thanks to the sponsor of this episode — Revell!
For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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087: Dani Pettrey
Many of you have read and love Dani Pettrey's books. In fact, many of you asked me to have her on Book Talk, something I was delighted to do. Dani writes amazing romantic suspense and romantic adventure, books that are gripping and pull you deeply into the setting and group of friends. We had so much fun talking about her novels, her settings, how she writes multiple characters in each book and so much more. We chatted about the benefits of real versus fictional settings, how to dig deep into real settings, and the challenges of coming up with names for all of our characters. We talked about her plot mountains and process and the challenges of writing one series while editing another. We also talked about her novella that releases this month as the wrap-up to her best-selling Coastal Guardians series. I hope you enjoy this behind-the-scenes look at Dani and her books.
Connect with Dani Pettrey
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For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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086: New Series Starters
Are you a reader who loves a new series? Do you fly through a series as fast as you can? Do you also love some diversity in your reading? Then this is the Book Talk for you. In this episode, I connect with Shelley Shephard Gray, who writes Amish romance, Elizabeth Goddard, who writes great romantic suspense, and Amanda Cabot, who writes westerns set in 1880s Texas. In this conversation, we chat about their latest novels which all launch new series. So whether you love Amish, romantic suspense, historic Western romances, or want to try something new, this episode will introduce you to some great authors and books.
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Connect with Elizabeth Goddard
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Connect with Amanda Cabot
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085: J'Nell Ciesielski
I had so much fun talking books and Captain America with my friend J'Nell Ciesielski and think you'll enjoy meeting her and learning more about her early 20th-century novels. I adored her latest novel Brilliance of Stars which reminds me of Marvel movies that center on Captain America. There's a reason! The idea came to her while watching those. We talked all about research, WWI, what makes a hero heroic, and her writing journey. I hope you enjoy meeting her and learning more about her novels.
Connect with J'Nell Ciesielski
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For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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084: Action-Packed Romance
Y'all, I always have way too much fun with these romantic suspense-writing friends. Today is no exception. Lynette Eason, Lynn H. Blackburn, and Natalie Walters are authors whose books are those I preorder and read the moment they land on my Kindle or in my mailbox. In fact, I often end up with multiple copies. In this episode, I may have gushed about their latest novels, which happened to be the last books in each of their series. They claimed they were the hardest to write. I'm not sure I buy it because I adored the way the hero and heroine came together in each. We talked about what makes a great hero. The challenge about writing the last book in a series. And so much more. Enjoy — because we sure did!
Connect with Lynette Eason
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Connect with Lynn H. Blackburn
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Connect with Natalie Walters
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For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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083: Tricia Goyer and the Authors of the Big Sky Amish Collection
This episode was such fun to record for several reasons. First, Tricia Goyer and I have been friends since I had two kids and she had three — I now have four and she has ten. I've known Christen Krumm for years as she's been a virtual assistant for many of my friends and now for me for years. And I always enjoy meeting new authors like Elly Gilbert. Why did we come together for this episode? Christen and Elly were selected through blind auditions to be authors on the Sunrise Big Sky Montana Amish series, extending Tricia's original best-selling series of books. It was so much fun to talk about their process, books, and celebrating — or lack of celebrating — the end. You'll enjoy learning more about what it's like to be mentored by an author of more than 80 titles and what makes a great hero.
Connect with Tricia Goyer
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Connect with Christen Krumm
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Connect with Elly Gilbert
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For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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082: Melanie Dobson
Do you love slip-time novels? Adore World War II fiction? Love a book that can sweep you into the time and place in a way that makes you feel part of the action and story? Then you will love Melanie Dobson's books. It was a joy to connect with my friend and talk about her books. She has written thirty and we discussed her passion for telling stories of ordinary people in extraordinary times that are based on real people. But we also talked about the power of moving from the facts of journalism into the passion and emotion of story. I hope you enjoy getting to know more about Melanie and her books.
Connect with Melanie Dobson
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For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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081: Mary Connealy
When you meet Mary Connealy you meet an author who cares deeply about creating characters who resonate with readers. She wants to entertain while also touching people's hearts. Her stories do that for me every time and I love how her most recent stories are a combination of strong women and hearts. In this episode, we talk about how she finds her stories and why she's so passionate about writing these books about strong women set in the late 1800s. You'll love getting to know Mary. Our careers have run on parallel paths in many ways, but she has outpaced me in the number of books she's written, and I'm so glad.
Connect with Mary Connealy
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For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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080: Kristy Cambron
There are few people I adore more in the writing world than Kristy Cambron, and you'll understand after listening (or watching) a few minutes of this Book Talk with Cara. Kristy is one of the warmest people I know and she is passionate about books. Her books have a wonderful blend of hope in the midst of darkness, usually war. I have loved her work since her debut novel, The Butterfly and the Violin, and in this episode, we talk about her latest novel The Italian Ballerina as well as the book she is writing now. We may geek out on all the research. Then we dive into her role as an agent, and she shares her wishlist of projects. If you're an aspiring writer, you do not want to miss her list.
Connect with Kristy Cambron
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For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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079: Jill Eileen Smith
On this episode of Book Talk, I get to introduce you to my friend Jill Eileen Smith. Jill is the author of twenty Biblical fiction novels. If there's a woman in the Old Testament, then she has probably written a novel bringing that woman's story to life. In this episode we discuss how she does her research, some of the books she's enjoyed writing, which books were challenging, and her next title Daughter of Eden. I hope you enjoy this look behind the scenes at what it's like for her to write these books that we get to enjoy.
Connect with Jill Eileen Smith
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For more episodes, and to learn more about the authors I interview, visit https://caraputman.com/podcast
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Thank you to this episode's sponsor, Revell Publishing!