Fresh FIction Box Not To Miss
Jennifer Vido | Jen’s Jewels Interview: IT COULD BE WORSE by Dara Levan
Jen's Jewels / March 15, 2024

Welcome to this week’s Jen’s Jewels! In the spotlight is debut author Dara Levan, offering a captivating glimpse into her novel, IT COULD BE WORSE. Levan, a former speech-language pathologist, injects a unique perspective into her storytelling by exploring communication challenges and their profound impact on relationships. Join me for an insightful conversation with Dara as she delves into her writing process, discusses her podcast “Every Soul Has a Story,” and teases upcoming projects. Don’t miss the chance to connect with this rising literary voice and discover the nuanced layers within IT COULD BE WORSE.   Jennifer Vido: What inspired you to write IT COULD BE WORSE? Dara Levan: I’ve always been interested in developing a protagonist whose perpetual optimism can inadvertently turn into dysfunctional loyalty. And it’s ironic given my main character – Allegra’s – professional background as a mindfulness therapist. As a former speech-language pathologist, I’m passionate about creating characters that also have communication challenges. Allegra stutters but only with a family member.   Jen: What led to the choice of the title, and how does the notion of resilience intertwine with Allegra’s journey in the story? Dara: Throughout her life, Allegra heard the phrase “it could be…

Jennifer Vido | Jen’s Jewels Interview: FINLAY DONOVAN ROLLS THE DICE by Elle Cosimano
Jen's Jewels / March 8, 2024

Hey there, readers! This week’s Jen’s Jewels author interview features Elle Cosimano and her latest release, FINLAY DONOVAN ROLLS THE DICE, the fourth installment in the Finlay Donovan series. I had a fascinating conversation with Elle about the inspiration behind blending a girls’ weekend with a thrilling rescue mission. We dove into the dynamics between Finlay and Vero, exploring how their evolving partnership adds depth to the series. Elle shared insights into the neon-lit backdrop of Atlantic City and how it brings a new vibrancy to the story. We discussed the intricate plot involving loan sharks, stolen cars, and a charismatic hot cop, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges of weaving multiple threads. Elle also provided a glimpse into family dynamics and the relatable chaos in Finlay’s life. As a bonus, she hinted at exciting adventures to come with Finlay and Vero in future books and a standalone novella. If you’re a fan eager to unravel the secrets behind this irresistible series, don’t miss this interview!   Jennifer Vido: What sparked the idea of blending a girls’ weekend with a thrilling rescue mission for Finlay and Vero in the fourth installment of the series? Elle Cosimano: That’s a great…

Jennifer Vido | Jen’s Jewels Interview: BLANK by Zibby Owens
Jen's Jewels / March 1, 2024

Hey, book enthusiasts! In this week’s column, I bring you an exclusive peek into the creative process behind Zibby Owens’ debut novel, BLANK. Ever wondered how a frustrated writer facing an impossible deadline mirrors our own quests for change? Or how the vibrant settings of Beverly Hills and Santa Monica shape the narrative? Join me as we delve into the complexities of Pippa Jones, the novel’s relatable protagonist, and uncover the inspiration behind her innovative idea to revolutionize the book world. So, grab your literary map and let’s explore the gems hidden within the pages of BLANK together. And don’t forget to use the hashtag #jensjewelsinterviews on social media. I can’t wait to hear what you think!   Jennifer Vido: Congratulations on your debut novel! What inspired you to explore the theme of a frustrated writer facing an impossible deadline for turning her life around? Zibby Owens: I was trying to think of a novel to write myself when my son suggested I hand it in blank. A lightbulb when off and I was like, “Yes! That’s a brilliant idea.” But having the deadline to turn her life around is a metaphor. We’re all under the gun to change things…

Jennifer Vido | Jen’s Jewels Interview: TILL THERE WAS YOU by Lindsay Hameroff
Jen's Jewels / February 23, 2024

Welcome to “Jen’s Jewels,” your go-to destination for all things bookish. This week, I’m excited to spotlight Lindsay Hameroff‘s TILL THERE WAS YOU. Picture a delightful blend of kitchen escapades and the whirlwind journey of an up-and-coming musician – it’s a gem of a read. Come along as we dive into the rich layers of this heartwarming love story. So, find a cozy nook, grab a warm beverage, and let’s chat about why TILL THERE WAS YOU is the perfect blend of flavors and emotions. It’s a literary gem worth savoring!   Jennifer Vido: What inspired you to blend the culinary world with the glamorous yet tumultuous life of a rising musician in your novel, creating such a unique and captivating backdrop for the love story between Lexi and Jake? Lindsay Hameroff: I wanted Lexi to have a job that was very inflexible and would make it difficult for her to work around Jake’s schedule. I considered several jobs with long hours and few days off, including being a medical resident, but ultimately, being a chef worked the best for the plot and interested me the most. I have no culinary training and have never worked in a restaurant, but…

Jennifer Vido | Jen’s Jewels Interview: THE IRISH MATCHMAKER by Jennifer Deibel
Jen's Jewels / February 16, 2024

Welcome, avid readers, to another edition of Jen’s Jewels, where we delve into the literary treasures that add a sparkle to our reading lives. In this installment, we’re diving into the enchanting world of THE IRISH MATCHMAKER by Jennifer Deibel. Set against the backdrop of a centuries-old matchmaking festival in the picturesque town of Lisdoonvarna, this novel promises a delightful blend of love, culture, and a touch of Irish magic. Join me as we unravel the threads of this heartwarming story, exploring the complexities of matchmaking, family, and the pursuit of love. So, grab your favorite reading nook and get ready to be transported to the Emerald Isle with The Irish Matchmaker.   Jennifer Vido: THE IRISH MATCHMAKER is set against the backdrop of a matchmaking festival. What inspired you to choose this unique setting for the novel, and how did it influence the story’s development? Jennifer Deibel: When we lived in Galway, we would often drive through the town of Lisdoonvarna and see signs for the annual matchmaking festival. This festival began in the late 1800’s when a doctor discovered the several mineral wells surrounding the area. Wealthy people began to travel to Lisdoonvarna to take the waters and…

Jennifer Vido | Jen’s Jewels Interview: EMBERS IN THE LONDON SKY by Sarah Sundin
Jen's Jewels / February 2, 2024

Welcome to another sparkling edition of Jen’s Jewels, where I bring you the inside scoop on exciting new book releases! Today, I have the privilege of featuring an interview with bestselling inspirational fiction author Sarah Sundin, who joins us to discuss her latest World War II novel, EMBERS IN THE LONDON SKY. Known for weaving rich historical detail and poignant relationships into stories of hope and resilience, Sundin gives us an insider’s look into the inspiration behind her new book. Like a precious gem reflecting light, her words offer a glimmering portrait of life during wartime, shining through the darkness of loss and adversity. So come along as we explore this treasure trove of insights with a talented storyteller.   Jennifer Vido: What inspired you to set your novel, EMBERS IN THE LONDON SKY, during the invasion of the Netherlands in 1940 and the subsequent events in London during the Blitz? Sarah Sundin: The kernel of inspiration for this novel was the search for children after the invasion of France and the Low Countries. Since the Blitz has always fascinated me and I hadn’t written a novel centered around those events, I decided to send my heroine to London in…

Jennifer Vido | Jen’s Jewels Interview: GOODBYE GIRL by James Grippando
Jen's Jewels / February 1, 2024

In this week’s Jen’s Jewels column, James Grippando unveils the creative process behind his latest Jack Swyteck novel, GOODBYE GIRL. The seasoned author and former criminal defense lawyer shares the inspirations that shaped this captivating story, blending elements of real-life courtroom drama and strategic moves in the music industry. Discover the complex dynamics between Jack Swyteck and pop icon Imani Nichols in a tale of piracy, legal battles, and a mysterious murder trial. Goodbye Girl is now available wherever books are sold.     Jennifer Vido: Let’s start by learning more about the genesis of GOODBYE GIRL. What sparked your interest in crafting a narrative rooted in the present-day music business, and how did observing certain aspects of that world inspire the tale you wanted to tell? James Grippando: The idea behind Goodbye Girl percolated in my head for more than a decade. In 2010, I was one of the lawyers involved in an epic courtroom battle for ownership of EMI Records. EMI and its iconic labels have been home to countless recording stars, from Frank Sinatra and the Beatles to Bob Dylan and Mariah Carey. In 2007 EMI was acquired in a deal worth 5.9 billion, and the buyer…

Jennifer Vido | Jen’s Jewels Interview: THIS IMPOSSIBLE BRIGHTNESS by Jessica Bryant Klagmann
Jen's Jewels / January 30, 2024

This week I am chatting with Jessica Klagmann about her new novel, THIS IMPOSSIBLE BRIGHTNESS. It’s a story of a woman who journeys to a remote island to deal with her grief. Klagmann gave me a behind-the-scenes look at how she created the main character and mysterious setting. She also discussed the themes of loss, connection, and memory that make this book meaningful. If the premise draws you in, check out the full interview below. And for Amazon Prime members, grab your early access! THIS IMPOSSIBLE BRIGHTNESS is a January First Reads pick.   Jennifer Vido: What sparked the idea for a novel centered around a woman coping with grief on a remote island? Jessica Bryant Klagmann: The idea started with wanting to write about someone who was introverted and sensitive, but who also wanted to do something to make a difference in the world. I’ve been exploring grief for a long time in my writing, and specifically the idea that, when we lose people, they leave behind monuments of who they were, reminders that we can look to for comfort if we’re paying attention. I’d explored some less remote settings before deciding to set it on this fictional island,…

Jennifer Vido | Jen’s Jewels Interview: OF LOVE AND TREASON by Jamie Ogle
Jen's Jewels / January 26, 2024

Welcome to Jen’s Jewels, your go-to destination for uncovering the story behind remarkable literary gems. This week, I’m thrilled to shine a spotlight on Jamie Ogle, the gifted mind behind OF LOVE AND TREASON. Join us as Jamie unveils the inspiration that transformed Valentine’s Day from a puzzling celebration into a compelling narrative. Explore with us the extensive research that brought the enchanting backdrop of ancient Rome to life, and discover the delicate balance Jamie strikes between love, courage, and the early church’s indomitable spirit. Step into the heart of Jen’s Jewels where each author and their story is a precious gem waiting to be discovered.   Jennifer Vido: What inspired you to write a captivating story about the legend of St. Valentine? Jamie Ogle: I never really liked Valentine’s Day, and for so many years didn’t understand why we celebrated it. But I have always loved digging into the “why” behind things, and when I finally looked up the origins of the holiday, I was captivated by the story of forbidden marriages and a man who risked his life to marry couples in secret. I couldn’t help but start playing around with a story centering on one of the…

Jennifer Vido | Jen’s Jewels Interview: THE SEAMSTRESS OF ACADIE by Laura Frantz
Jen's Jewels / January 5, 2024

Jennifer Vido: In the enchanting narrative of THE SEAMSTRESS OF ACADIE, the threads of inspiration intertwine with the vibrant tapestry of cultural heritage and the storied history of Acadie. What served as the muse behind your latest release? Laura Frantz: I’ve always been fascinated by Canadian history and how it intersects with the Cajuns of Louisiana who have their own dialect/patois and distinct culture derived from Acadie (French spelling). Acadien history is full of historical fireworks – war, expulsion, divided loyalties, loss, resistance – yet few people know of that lost, very tragic history today. In writing this novel I hope to keep this history alive, not only to learn from it but to never repeat it. I find it noteworthy that in 2003, a Royal Proclamation was signed in Canada wherein Queen Elizabeth II acknowledged for the first time the wrongs committed in the name of the English Crown during the Acadian deportation of 1755.   Jen: Please delve into the details of your research journey and unravel the most fascinating nugget of information you stumbled upon during the process. Laura: There are some excellent nonfiction works I mention in my author note at the back of the novel as…