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Let's travel the world one book at a time. Literary Escapes, book inspired travel, travel inspired reading.
Episodes
Thursday Jun 19, 2025
Thursday Jun 19, 2025
What makes a Jenna Brandt romance special? Flawed, loveable characters who heal each other. “I love giving characters a wound—and letting love help them mend.” Her favorite tropes? Small-town, second chance, grumpy-sunshine, and even “redeeming the villain.”
You won’t want to miss this chat with inspirational romance author Jenna Brandt who is known for her inspirational romances full of humor, suspense, and elements of faith!
From childhood, Jenna was surrounded by words—literally under her journalist mom’s desk. But her path to publishing wasn’t a straight line: querying, agents, rejections…until a friend said: “Just do it yourself!” And so she did.
Jenna shares behind-the-scenes stories about her popular first responder and small town romance series—including real-life inspirations from her husband’s law enforcement career—and discusses her passion for crafting authentic, heartfelt stories set in vivid locations around the world.
Are you ready for another literary escape? Let’s go!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Episode links:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-144-law-keepers-canine-heroes-and-safari-rescues-jenna-brandt/
We’d love to have you join us in the Literary Escapes Book Club – get more info and sign up here: https://literaryescapes.fun/literary-escape-book-club/
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
In this episode, host, Becki, takes us on an adventure to Scotland with special guest author Kate Galley, whose book "Golden Girls Road Trip" was March's pick for the book club. Kate shares her inspiration for the novel, recounting her own memorable road trip through Scotland with her husband, and discusses her unique writing journey that led to her becoming a published author.
Inspiration in Unlikely Places: Kate shared how her experiences as a mobile hairdresser have inspired the rich characters and plots in her novels. Her story about transforming a client's account of a Christmas trip into a full-fledged novel, "Second Chance Holiday Club," is a testament to finding inspiration in everyday conversations.
Road Trips as Creative Journeys: Both Becki and Kate discussed their love for road trips as a means of exploration and inspiration. Kate even turned her own spontaneous UK road trips into the backdrop for her book "Golden Girls Road Trip."
Embracing Golden Years in Fiction: Kate emphasized the importance of representing older generations in literature. Her books often center around characters finding new adventures and challenges later in life, offering readers a fresh perspective on 'golden years' fiction.
You can join us in the Literary Escapes Book Club to explore new destinations and authors every month.
Are you ready for another literary adventure? Let's go!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Episode links:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-143-exploring-golden-years-fiction-with-kate-galley/
We’d love to have you join us in the Literary Escapes Book Club – get more info and sign up here: https://literaryescapes.fun/literary-escape-book-club/
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Today Becki chats with author Julie Sneed Womack about her writing journey. With a background in screenwriting and a variety of life experiences, including traveling through Europe and teaching young children, Julie crafts heartfelt and vivid stories.
Listen in as Becki and Julie discuss the intricacies of character development and the art of novel writing, particularly highlighting how Julie's personal adventures breathe life into her narratives.
In this episode, they explore both of Julie's novels (be advised of potential spoilers for "Taking Her to Mykonos"). Julie's debut novel, "Tea with Isabel," is a sentimental tribute to her grandmother and unfolds in the charming setting of Oklahoma. The story delves deeply into female relationships and personal evolution.
Meanwhile, "Taking Her to Mykonos" draws inspiration from Julie's own backpacking escapades across Europe, whisking readers away to picturesque destinations while examining themes such as friendship and self-discovery.
Are you ready for another literary escape? Let’s go!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Episode links:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-142-epic-travels-deep-friendships-julie-sneed-womack/
We’d love to have you join us in the Literary Escapes Book Club – get more info and sign up here: https://literaryescapes.fun/literary-escape-book-club/
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Ever wondered how books can be the cornerstone of strength during tumultuous times? Listen in to this Literary Escapes Book Club meeting with author Madeline Martin as she discusses The Keeper of Hidden Books and more!
(Note – if you haven’t read Keeper of Hidden Books yet, there may be spoilers!)
Set in Poland during WWII, Madeline's novel is a tribute to the power of books and strong women protagonists. She reveals the inspiration behind her story and the real events that shaped her narrative.
Madeline also shares with us her research process, including trips to locations relevant to her book settings, and how real historical events and figures inspire her writing. The conversation touches upon themes of preserving cultural heritage through books and the challenges faced by Poland during Nazi occupation.
Madeline reveals her next two books, including a Victorian-era novel and another based on the 1600s witch trials.
Don't miss this episode if you love stories about hidden history, the power of literature, and female empowerment. Listen now to witness how books illuminate the darkest of times.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Episode links:
We’d love to have you join us in the Literary Escapes Book Club – get more info and sign up here: https://literaryescapes.fun/literary-escape-book-club/
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Ever had a wild celebrity encounter? Dive into a world of Hollywood glamour, romance, and juicy secrets with Christy Swift’s new rom-com, Celebrity Crush.
Christy shares how the idea for "Celebrity Crush" emerged from the NYC Midnight Short Story Contest and an Avengers movie marathon during quarantine. Exploring Hollywood glam and the life beyond the screen, she weaves a tale combining fandoms, romance, and personal growth.
Becki and Christy also discuss the fun of celebrity crushes, their favorite celebrity meeting memories, and much more!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Episode links:
We’d love to have you join us in the Literary Escapes Book Club – get more info and sign up here: https://literaryescapes.fun/literary-escape-book-club/
Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Last year we traveled the U.S. through books. This year, Literary Escapes Podcast is going global!
Each month in 2025, we will be “traveling” to a new destination, with a Book of the Month and a companion read. In January we were in Poland with “Mrs. Mohr Goes Missing” by Maryla Szymiczkowa and "The Keeper of Hidden Books" by Madeline Martin. Stay tuned for our book club interview with Madeline, which will coming to the podcast soon!
You can find links to these two books as well as several other books set in Poland here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/books-set-in-poland/
We’d love to have you join us in the Literary Escapes Book Club – get more info and sign up here: https://literaryescapes.fun/literary-escape-book-club/
You can find the full list of books and podcast episodes from last year’s Read Across the US here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/read-across-the-us-book-club/
Do you have a destination you’d like to visit with the book club? Let Becki know!
Thursday Dec 19, 2024
Thursday Dec 19, 2024
Unexpected Ohio: From Lake Erie to Hocking Hills, discover the surprising beauty of the Buckeye State
Did you know Ohio's not just cornfields? Join our author of the week, Libby Kay, as she tells us all about the surprisingly diverse landscapes of Ohio, from bustling cities like Columbus and Cleveland to serene hiking spots and Lake Erie’s vibrant lakeside life.
Libby also discusses her writing journey, her background in history and librarianship, and her penchant for small-town romances. Our book of the week, Falling Home, is the first book in Libby’s Buckeye Falls series. Inspired by a charming diner in Galena, OH, it's got all the small-town, Hallmark vibes.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-138-exploring-ohio-with-author-libby-kay/
Thursday Dec 12, 2024
Thursday Dec 12, 2024
Historical Gems to Christmas Cheer - How Jess Hansen Brings Historic Delaware to Life
Our journey through the fifty states is nearing its end and today we are stopping in Delaware with author Jess Hansen.
Jess gives us a delightful tour of Delaware highlighting its flat geography, crowded beaches, and charming, small-town feel. For many, Delaware might be just a pass-through state, but Jess brings its uniqueness to life in her stories.
Jess especially loves to write stories set at Christmas time. Why Christmas? Jess loves holiday romances because they embody kindness, generosity, and that warm fuzzy feeling we all crave. This week's book is The Hope of Christmas in which we follow Sadie's journey as she navigates life after inheriting her grandmother’s home and secondhand bookshop.
Don’t miss this heartwarming episode brimming with plenty of cozy, coastal vibes and holiday magic.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-137-exploring-delaware-with-author-jess-hansen/
Thursday Nov 28, 2024
Thursday Nov 28, 2024
Fall Foliage and Romance: Erin Branscom on New Hampshire and Writing
From the stunning fall foliage of the Kancamagus Highway to quaint small towns adorned with covered bridges, you'll be enchanted by the charm that inspired Erin's beloved book series set in New Hampshire. This series is set against the fall beauty of New Hampshire, where the town of Freedom Valley is a fictional slice of heaven inspired by North Conway.
The first book in Erin’s Freedom Valley series is Falling Inn Love and is her debut novel. The story revolves around saving an inn, lost loves, and a romance writer stranded in a cozy small town.
Erin is also starting a new series with “Yellowstone” vibes and is set in the Rockies explores contemporary romance with a hint of suspense.
So let’s get ready for a literary escape filled with emotional revelations, cozy small-town charm, and the scenic beauty of New Hampshire!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-136-exploring-new-hampshire-with-author-erin-branscom/
Thursday Nov 07, 2024
Thursday Nov 07, 2024
From Legal Briefs to Rom-Coms: Ash Keller's Maine Inspiration
This week, we are soaking up the picturesque, atmospheric charm of Maine with author Ash Keller. Ash shares her transition from a trial lawyer to author of clean, wholesome romcoms, and tells how she likes to channel life experiences into heartwarming stories.
She started with children's books before pivoting to clean and wholesome romcoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now she writes middle-grade and clean rom-coms which both share a fun, light-hearted approach to stories.
Ash is co-writing the “When in Maine" series, with her author bestie, Sophie Lee Robbins. This series is set in the fictional town of Fog Harbor, Maine, and features standalone books interconnected by characters and setting. In "The Maine Attraction," Ash Keller introduces us to a retired hockey player seeking solace in a secluded lighthouse. But what happens when he runs into his childhood nemesis, now a local contractor?
Let’s go to Maine and find out!
CLICK HERE to sign up for the BOOK CLUB!
CLICK HERE to check out the SHOW NOTES for this episode!
Are you an author who would like to join me for a conversation on the podcast?
CLICK HERE to get more information and fill out the form.
Every week at Literary Escapes, we travel through the pages to a new destination, discovering the landscapes and heartbeats of different states through the wonderful world of books. From the golden coasts of California to the lively streets of New York City, each book we explore offers a unique slice of life and culture, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Find links to the books, author, and book club here:
https://literaryescapes.fun/ep-135-exploring-maine-with-author-ash-keller/