Jennifer Vido: Wow, what a premise! How’d you come up with the idea of a makeup artist turned vengeful in 1950s Hollywood? Katherine Blake: Thank you for asking! It came about very organically, as I was propped up in bed one evening scrolling YouTube. I knew I wanted to write something a bit “crime-y” set in Golden Era Hollywood but didn’t really know what that might be. Then, I found myself watching make-up tutorials to fall asleep to (there is something very meditative about watching someone having their make-up done) and stumbled across a make-up artist to the stars, Lisa Eldridge. She has her own collection of vintage make-up. In one of her videos talking us through the collection, she mentioned how the Hollywood make-up artists had to start mixing potions from scratch, once the industry moved from black-and-white to Technicolor. My brain exploded! Anything could go into a make-up potion, including poison. Only a few extra moments of research showed me that make-up and poison have a rich heritage, stretching back to Egyptian times. I was off and running!   Jen: Loretta sounds like quite a character. What was your favorite part about writing her? Katherine: Her voice! I’m…

Hey there, book lovers! Welcome back to Jen’s Jewels, where we chat with the authors behind your soon-to-be favorite reads. This week, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Jennifer Gooch Hummer, whose new novel dives into the captivating world of art forgery and high-stakes heists. Jennifer’s got some fascinating insights into the art scene, family dynamics, and the blurred lines of morality that’ll have you itching to pick up her book. So grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and let’s dive into our conversation with this talented author who’s about to take you on a colorful adventure through New York’s art world!   Jennifer Vido: What inspired you to write a story about art forgery and heists? Jennifer Gooch Hummer: First, thank you so much for having me on Fresh Fiction! I have been obsessed with art crime for the past few years. During the pandemic, I took a class at Sotheby’s (on-line) about art crime and one of the greatest art forgers in the world (John Myatt) came in as a guest speaker. Not only is his story amazing, his paintings are absolutely stunning and some of his “fakes” are still hanging in museums all over the world, with…

Get ready to dive into the enchanting world of Kristy Woodson Harvey, a beloved Southern author whose latest novel, A HAPPIER LIFE, promises to captivate and inspire. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Beaufort, North Carolina, this story weaves together themes of family secrets, self-discovery, and the enduring pursuit of happiness. With her signature warmth and charm, Kristy brings to life the vivid characters of Keaton and Becks, drawing readers into their intertwined journeys across generations. In this exclusive interview, Kristy shares the inspirations behind her setting and characters, the significance of historic homes, and the powerful connections that shape her storytelling. Don’t miss this insightful conversation that will leave you eager to explore the pages of A HAPPIER LIFE and discover the magic of Beaufort through Kristy’s eyes.   Jennifer Vido: You chose to set A HAPPIER LIFE in the picturesque coastal town of Beaufort, North Carolina, where you have made your home. What initially inspired you to craft a story rooted in the very place you reside, and how did your intimate familiarity with Beaufort shape the way you brought this charming setting to life on the page? Kristy Woodson Harvey: To be completely honest, I was originally…

In this week’s Jen’s Jewels, we chat with bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne about her latest novel, 15 SUMMERS LATER. Set in the charming town of Emerald Creek, Idaho, Thayne’s story dives into themes of betrayal, secrets, and reconciliation. RaeAnne shares her inspiration, the significance of the Idaho wilderness in her writing, and how animal welfare plays a crucial role in Madison’s journey. Don’t miss this captivating feature that unveils the heart and soul behind 15 SUMMERS LATER.   Jennifer Vido: What inspired you to explore themes of betrayal, secrets, and reconciliation in 15 SUMMERS LATER? RaeAnne Thayne: I love reading memoirs where people dig deep into their personal histories to recount their struggles and fears and the lessons they learned. I am often struck, though, by how the same circumstances can be interpreted very differently by the various people involved. I wondered what would happen if one person wrote a memoir that alienated her from those she loved most. The whole story evolved from that single question.   Jen: The setting of Emerald Creek, Idaho, is integral to the story. What significance does the town hold for Ava and Madison, and how did you develop its atmosphere? RaeAnne: I loosely…

In the realm of literary intrigue and mystery, few names shimmer as brightly as the collaborative force of Collette Lyons and Paul Vlitos, better known as the Ellery Lloyd. Their latest novel, THE FINAL ACT OF JULIETTE WILLOUGHBY, captivates readers with its enigmatic blend of art history, family secrets, and chilling mysteries spanning generations. Drawing inspiration from their rich academic backgrounds and a shared passion for exploring the darker shades of human emotion, Lyons and Merrick weave tales that mesmerize and thrill in equal measure. In this week’s Jen’s Jewels column, we embark on a journey into their creative universe, where love, madness, obsession, and revenge intertwine amidst the haunting strokes of a surrealist masterpiece, promising readers a literary experience like no other.   Jennifer Vido: What inspired THE FINAL ACT OF JULIETTE WILLOUGHBY, an intriguing story that spans multiple generations and locations? Collette Lyons: We love to explore a darkly glamorous world – or in this case three – in our novels. I studied Art History at Cambridge University, where part of the story is set, and really fell in love with the work of the female Surrealists – artists like Leonora Carrington, Leonor Fini and Dorothea Tanning. We…

Welcome to this edition of Jen’s Jewels, where I’m thrilled to introduce Brooke Lea Foster, the talented author behind ALL THE SUMMERS IN BETWEEN. Set against the evocative backdrop of the 1960s and 1970s, Brooke’s latest novel delves into the complexities of friendship, societal change, and the personal journeys of two women navigating an era of both promise and disillusionment. Join us as Brooke shares her inspirations, insights into capturing the essence of a transformative period, and the challenges of weaving dual timelines. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her work, this interview promises to offer a captivating glimpse into the mind of an extraordinary storyteller.   Jennifer Vido: What inspired you to write ALL THE SUMMERS IN BETWEEN and explore the dynamics of friendship against the backdrop of the 1960s and 1970s? Brooke Lea Foster: Hi Jen! Thanks so much for having me. I think I’ve always been fascinated with female friendships and how some relationships come so natural to us, and some are more complicated and feel traumatic. I mean, from our earliest years, girls are made to feel like they’re part of the group—or not. But then there are the friends that sink their teeth…

Embark on a journey into the sun-soaked world of coastal charm and culinary delights in this month’s Jen’s Jewels column! In this edition, we catch up with bestselling author Lindsay Gibson to delve into the inspiration behind her latest novel, FLY AWAY SUMMER. From the salty breeze of Cape Cod to the sizzle of seafood cuisine, Gibson invites us on a journey of nostalgia, grief, and resilience. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind Lana Kelly’s culinary passion, the charm of Cape Cod, and the heartwarming bonds that shape her journey. Plus, don’t miss out on Gibson’s exclusive tips for aspiring writers and a sneak peek at her upcoming Christmas release. Dive into the pages of FLY AWAY SUMMER and let the warmth of summer and the promise of new beginnings envelop you.   Jennifer Vido: What sparked your inspiration for FLY AWAY SUMMER? Lindsay Gibson: Food! When I think of my childhood growing up in New England, summers on the Cape always come to mind…but so does the food! I grew up indulging in New England lobster rolls and so much delicious seafood every summer there. So I knew my first summer release had to have both the…

In the latest Jen’s Jewels column, prepare to be captivated by an exclusive interview with bestselling author Nancy Naigle, as she unveils the heartwarming and unexpected inspiration behind her latest novel, THE LAW OF ATTRACTION. Join us as Nancy shares the delightful real-life brunch that sparked a story about love blooming from divorce, the challenges faced by her dynamic protagonists Whitney and Carina, and the hilarious chaos of viral social media fame. With insights into her writing process, personal anecdotes, and a sneak peek at what’s next, this is an interview brimming with charm and inspiration that you won’t want to miss!   Jennifer Vido: What inspired you to write a story centered around divorcees finding love again, and the unexpected consequences that follow? Nancy Naigle: Well, funny you should ask.  Like most of my novels, they are inspired from some little something or other that has happened to me, or I’ve overheard, or that grabbed my attention. In the case of THE LAW OF ATTRACTION it was something I experienced. I was divorced, and having brunch with a gentleman I’d met at a book signing. We both lived in the same small town and he happened to be recently…

Welcome to Jen’s Jewels, where we dive into the glittering world of literature to uncover hidden gems and sparkling treasures. This week, we have the pleasure of delving into the enchanting realm of historical romance with acclaimed author Rachel Brimble, whose latest release, DRESSING THE COUNTESS, promises to whisk readers away to a captivating world of royal courts, forbidden love, and daring ambition. Join me as we embark on a journey through the opulent halls of Henlow House, where secrets abound, and hearts are destined to collide.   Jennifer Vido: Congratulations on your latest release! What inspired you to write DRESSING THE COUNTESS? Rachel Brimble: The main inspiration with all my books lies in my obsession with history, especially the Victorian and Edwardian periods, but Dressing the Countess was an extra indulgence as it’s set in a royal court… albeit a fictional one! I am mad about British royalty, both past and present, so I loved writing this book from beginning to end. The story itself was inspired by the amazing royal dresses I saw at an exhibition in Bath, England a few years ago – I was just waiting for the right heroine to come along…   Jen: The…

Jennifer Vido: What inspired you to write a story about three estranged siblings reuniting and uncovering a dark family secret? Jeneva Rose: I got the inspiration for HOME IS WHERE THE BODIES ARE while I was watching my family’s home VHS tapes. It was right around Mother’s Day, and I was really missing my mom, so much so that I needed to see her and hear her voice. She passed when I was eighteen and the only way I’m able to visit her is in my mind or through photos and home family videos. On one tape, there was a random clip only two minutes in length. It was from an evening back 1999, and my mom for some reason decided to pull out the camcorder. She scanned the dark tree line in our backyard, while a symphony of buzzing cicadas and squeaking bats chorused in the background. I think she had heard an owl and was attempting to capture it on film. However, a camcorder from the 80s wasn’t going to achieve that. In the middle of watching this short clip, my husband entered the living room and asked me what I was doing. I told him I was…