In this episode of Book Talk with Cara, I get to chat with historical fiction author Michelle Shocklee about her new novel, The Women of Oak Ridge. Shockley shares her background, inspiration for the book, and insights into the historical context of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, during World War II. Our discussion delves into her research process, the dual timelines of the novel, and the challenging technical subjects involved. Michelle discusses her writing routine, research joys, and her journey to becoming a published author, including the importance of support from mentors like Tracy Peterson. The episode wraps up with some fun questions about Michelle's writing habits and how she celebrates a book release.

Connect with Michelle Shocklee

Facebook | Instagram | X | Blog

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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!

Do you ever meet someone and just click? That's what happened when I hopped on the call with Sheila Roberts. She writes novels that are contemporary mysteries set in a larger community. You can tell from the cover that they have humor and fun. It only takes a few minutes of chatting with Shelia to see how much that fun comes from her personality and perspective on life.

The Man Next Door is her most recent novel, and the idea dropped into her mind like so many do. It's a twist on Alfred Hitchcock with an unreliable narrator and multigenerational family dynamics. She wants to tell a good story that pulls readers in with its cast of characters and layers. This book does exactly that. She's been creating stories since she was a child, telling herself bedtime stories.

I hope you enjoy our conversation and learning more about her books and writing process.

Connect with Sheila Roberts

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok

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!

In this episode of 'Book Talk with Cara,' I interview Nicole Baart about her newest book, Where He Left Me. Nicole shares insights into her background, inspiration for the book, and her writing process. The conversation reveals Nicole's melding of personal experiences and creative what-ifs that shaped the suspenseful, nature-versus-man story set at a remote cabin. We discuss the challenges older women face, highlighting the protagonist Sadie's mid-life turmoil and struggle for survival. Nicole also touches on the balancing act between writing and family life, sharing how she finds time to write among her responsibilities as a mother of five. I loved talking with Nicole about research, inspirations from astronomy, and the intricacies of writing mystery and suspense.

We concluded our chat with a light-hearted conversation about our favorite sparkling water flavors and Nicole’s social media presence, where fans can connect with her.

Connect with Nicole Baart

X | Facebook | Instagram

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!