The Exploress

Season 5, Episode 11. Guess what? My second novel, FYREBIRDS, hits shelves TODAY. How exciting! I’m celebrating by inviting one of my favorite authors to join us. Ryan Graudin is the award-winning novel of many books for young adults and children; her debut adult fantasy, THE ENCHANTED LIES OF CELESTE ARTOIS, comes out today. This novel, set in Belle Epoque Paris just before the First World War, is absolutely FULL of my favorite things: history, strong women, and magic. Join us as we talk about her enchanting novel, how she used history as a springboard for writing it, and what she discovered along the way.  Remember, if you pick up a copy of FYREBIRDS this week (by September 4, 2024), I’ll send you some very special prizes, including a signed bookplate and some NIGHTBIRDS-inspired art. You can claim them right here, or go to my author website to find out more. If you'd like a recap of NIGHTBIRDS before the sequel arrives, go and listen to my four-part recap series over on Pub Dates. Thanks for listening! You can now buy THE ENCHANTED LIES OF CELESTE ARTOIS wherever good books are sold. Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to check out my other podcast, PUB DATES, where Amie Kaufman and I take readers behind the scenes on the publication process and our novels. And don’t forget, if you want more Exploress in your life, I'm publishing two fresh bonus episodes a month over on my Patreon. You can now try out being a patron with a 7-day free trial! Go to my website to find out more.

It’s FYREBIRDS month on The Exploress! To celebrate the release of my second novel, and the conclusion of the NIGHTBIRDS series, I’m sharing an episode of my other podcast, Pub Dates, where I’ve been taking listeners behind the scenes on this series’ creation. In this episode, I’m going to answer reader’s burning questions about NIGHTBIRDS. Warning: there will be spoilers in here, so save this one for later if you haven’t read the book yet. My second novel, FYREBIRDS, is hitting shelves on August 27th, and it would mean a huge amount if you’d pick up a copy. If you do, I’ll send you some very special prizes, including a signed bookplate and some NIGHTBIRDS-inspired art. You can claim them right here, or go to my author website to find out more. If you'd like a recap of NIGHTBIRDS before the sequel arrives, go and listen to my four-part recap series over on Pub Dates. Did you like this episode? Hop on over to PUB DATES, where bestselling author Amie Kaufman and I have been taking readers behind the scenes on the publication of our novels. If you like those old-school DVD extras and "making of" videos, this one's for you. This show wouldn’t be possible without the support of all my patrons. Have you ever thought about becoming one? Patrons get all episodes early and ad-free, voting rights on content, behind the scenes stuff, AND up to two exclusive bonus episodes a month. You can now try out being a patron with a 7-day free trial! Go to my website to find out more.  

Dive into the vibrant underground world of the 1920s! Discover how women became symbols of rebellion during Prohibition, transforming speakeasies into creative havens of freedom. Learn about influential figures like Texas Guinan, who challenged societal norms and inspired a new drinking culture. Explore the fascinating intersection of magic and alcohol, revealing how these elements shaped a unique narrative in the author's novel. Plus, uncover the tales of female bootleggers and their daring quests for independence!

Therese Oneill, an author celebrated for her engaging explorations of Victorian women's lives, dives into the rich tapestry of overlooked female figures. She shares humorous yet poignant anecdotes about the absurdities faced by women in the 19th century, including struggles for reproductive rights. Therese highlights the complexities of women's education and their significant yet often forgotten contributions to history. With a refreshing mix of humor and empathy, she emphasizes the need to celebrate these multifaceted legacies.

Annette Kellerman, a pioneer in women's swimwear history, discusses the evolution of women's swimwear from bloomer suits to princess suits. She revolutionized swimwear design for speed and function. The podcast also explores the bikini's controversial journey to becoming a fashion symbol in the 1960s.

Explore the lives of samurai warrior women in Tokugawa Japan, from their training and Bushido code to their roles in battles. Learn about the honorable yet violent practices of Bushido, and the bravery of legendary figures like Princess Zuru and Tomoe Gozen. Dive into the history of female warriors in a male-dominated military culture.

Explore the glamorous world of geisha in Tokugawa Japan with insights into their intense training, mysterious rituals, and evolution from taiyu. Learn about sumptuary laws regulating attire, the significance of fashion, makeup, and the unique lifestyle of geishas as artists and performers.

Explore the hidden role of women in tea ceremonies and the diverse living arrangements of Tokugawa Japan. Dive into urban living conditions, architectural structures, and societal practices. Discover the cultural significance of marriage, the challenges faced by women seeking independence, and the complexities of divorce in Tokugawa Japan.

Travel back to Tokugawa Japan and uncover the mysterious rituals of itako shamans, explore the social structure and power dynamics of the Tokugawa Shogunate, and learn about the roles of female shamans and the eventual ban on their activities in Japanese society.

Exploring the challenges faced by royal sisters in medieval Outremer, from rebellion to scandal and rebellious sons. Delving into the power struggles, trial by combat, and tragic events that shaped their lives. Highlighting Queen Melisande's rise to power and her influence as a female ruler in a turbulent realm. Unveiling the legacy of influential queens in Outremer and their significant impact on future female rulers.