Welcome to LiteraryScape’s Podcast!

The LiteraryScape podcast serves both readers and writers of historical Christian romance with a sprinkling of contemporary Christian suspense books. We read, discuss, review, and rate books in this unique romance sub-genre. For authors, we bring inside tips and tricks from those who have gone before us. LiteraryScape is the one stop shop for both readers and authors to connect, learn, and grow together.

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Exploring Love, Identity, and Family Ties in 'Winning the Mountain Man's Love'
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

Exploring Love, Identity, and Family Ties in 'Winning the Mountain Man's Love'

When you think of romance and drama set in the rugged Montana territory, Winning the Mountain Man's Love, by Misty M. Beller may be just the story that captivates your heart. This latest installment in the popular Brothers of Sapphire Ranch series unfolds a tale of second chances, hidden fortunes, and lost love rekindled amidst the majestic and untamed landscapes of 19th-century America.

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Love and Redemption in the Montana Territory
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

Love and Redemption in the Montana Territory

In this episode Jessica and Melissa discuss the plot and themes of the book 'Earning the Mountain Man's Trust,' focusing on characters Naomi Wyatt, Jonah Coulter, and Eric LaGrange. Naomi, left alone with a baby after Eric's disappearance, moves west and considers Jonah for marriage. Eric's sudden return creates a love triangle, leading to conflicts and a journey of redemption and second chances. We share our reactions to plot twists, character development, and the book's inspirational and dramatic aspects.

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From a Lie to Love
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

From a Lie to Love

In this episode, Jessica and Melissa discuss Protecting the Mountain Man’s Treasure by Misty M. Beller. This is an action-packed romance that starts with a lie and ends in love.

Jessica and Melissa share why it took them a while to like the leading lady Angela. They also discuss their love for Judah’s deep faith and reliance on God.

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The Intriguing Two-Stones
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

The Intriguing Two-Stones

In this episode, Jessica and Melissa discuss Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller. This is a sweet novella featuring Two Stones who is our book club’s favorite hero in Misty’s Sapphire Ranch series.

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Author Chat with Beth White
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

Author Chat with Beth White

In this engaging conversation, author Beth White discusses her series, the Gulf Coast Chronicles, exploring the complexities of character development, historical context, and the challenges of writing. She shares insights into her creative process, the importance of truth in storytelling, and offers valuable advice for aspiring authors. The discussion also touches on the dynamics of family relationships within her narratives and the significance of historical events in shaping her characters' journeys.

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Love Across the Enemy Line
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

Love Across the Enemy Line

In this episode, Jessica, Linda aka Mom, and Melissa discuss the third and final book in Beth White’s Gulf Coast Chronicles series, The Magnolia Duchess. This book centers on the War of 1812. Although former friends find love, their conflicting loyalties divide them.

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Love and Loyalty in the American Revolutionary War
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

Love and Loyalty in the American Revolutionary War

In this episode, Jessica, Jamie, Mom, and Melissa discuss the Creole Princess by Beth White. Our conversation delves into the themes of family dynamics, love, loyalty, and the historical context of the American Revolutionary War as depicted in the book 'Creole Princess.' We discuss character development, focusing on Lise and her relationships, while also reflecting on the impact of faith and resilience in challenging times.

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Twists and Turns in the Pelican Bride
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

Twists and Turns in the Pelican Bride

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the book 'The Pelican Bride' by Beth White, exploring its themes, characters, and plot twists. They delve into the living conditions faced by the characters, the dynamics among the Pelican Brides, and the contrasting personalities of the Lanier brothers. The discussion also touches on the societal expectations of women during the time period and the various relationships depicted in the story. The hosts share their thoughts on the book's rating and its overall impact, highlighting the complexity of the narrative and the depth of the characters.

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What’s in Store for the 2025 Reading Season?
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

What’s in Store for the 2025 Reading Season?

In this episode Tiffanie, Jessica, Mom, and Melissa introduce the 2025 reading list and make predictions. How will the 2025 reading season go? Which authors will be joining us? Find out in this energetic conversation.

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From Teacher to Author: Sandra Taylor's Journey
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

From Teacher to Author: Sandra Taylor's Journey

In this engaging conversation, author Sandee Taylor shares her journey into writing, sparked by personal experiences and a newfound passion for Kansas history. She discusses the challenges of character development, the intricacies of writing about violence and passion, and the importance of historical accuracy in her novels. Themes of family, integrity, and faith are woven throughout her work, reflecting her values and beliefs. Sandy also shares insights into her upcoming book launch and ways for readers to connect with her.

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It’s Been Great 2024!
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

It’s Been Great 2024!

In this episode Jessica, Tiffanie, Mom, and Melissa share their favorites from 2024. It has been an exciting year of reading for all of us as we branched out into the world of Contemporary Christian Suspense Romance. Tiff became quite brave this year as she read through these series, and we are so proud of her!

We hope that you have found our book discussions to be entertaining and inspiring. Our schedule for next year is full of great novels and authors. We hope you can join us for another year of adventurous reading!

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The Best Gift of All by Julie Lessman
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

The Best Gift of All by Julie Lessman

In this episode Tiffanie, Jessica, Mom and I discuss Julie Lessman’s Christmas novella, The Best Gift of all. This novella is part of the many O’Connor family stories. John Brady and Lizzie from A Passion Redeemed are featured is this incredible Christmas novella. 

Topics We Discuss:

The balance between spouse and children.

God’s design for the family structure.

Redeeming  broken relationships.

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A Whisper of Hope by Julie Lessman
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

A Whisper of Hope by Julie Lessman

In this episode Tiffanie, Jessica, Mom, and I discuss A Whisper of Hope by Julie Lessman. This novella features one of the infamous O’Connor couples, Mitch and Charity. Being a big Julie Lessman fan, I of course love this novella. However, I also love all of the characters in the O’Connor family and highly recommend every book in the series.

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I’ll Be Home for Christmas
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

I’ll Be Home for Christmas

In this episode Tiffanie, Jessica, Mom, and I discuss Sarah Sundin’s novella, I’ll Be Home for Christmas. We loved reading this novella as it takes place in our home state and features our favorite university. It was also interesting to find out that the candy store featured in the story still exists today. Taking a trip there will be in our future!

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Christmas Threat
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

Christmas Threat

In this episode Tiffanie, Jessica, my mother, and I discuss the novella Christmas Threat by Lynn Shannon. This is the second novella in her Christmas novella collection. You can read all of three for free on Kindle Unlimited. Most, if not all her books are available on KU. As always Lynn delivers an action-packed romance you cannot put down.

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Christmas Danger by Lynn Shannon
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

Christmas Danger by Lynn Shannon

In this episode we discuss Lynn Shannon's Christmas novella, Christmas Danger. It is packed with suspense and makes for quick holiday romance read. We also discuss the Clark Griswolds in our families and share one our favorite Christmas treats.

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Character Insights, Story Dynamics, and Cover Reveal
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

Character Insights, Story Dynamics, and Cover Reveal

In this episode, Melissa celebrates the upcoming launch of her first historical romance novel, 'Unwavering Faith,' and shares insights about the Bounty Brothers series. She discusses the creative process behind the book cover, character dynamics, and the unique approach to self-publishing. Additionally, she highlights upcoming events and community engagement opportunities for readers and writers.

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Unpacking ‘An Unexpected Catch’ with Abby Downey
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

Unpacking ‘An Unexpected Catch’ with Abby Downey

In this episode of the Literary Escape podcast, host Melissa welcomes author Abbey Downey to discuss her latest release, 'An Unexpected Catch.' Set in 1907, the novel features a female umpire and a pitcher navigating their unexpected romance amidst the challenges of their time. Abbey shares insights into her characters, the historical context of the story, and the research that informed her writing. The conversation also touches on the dynamics between characters, the role of supporting figures, and the challenges of writing compelling antagonists. Abbey hints at her future projects, including a new book that breaks away from the sports theme.

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From Lawyer to Author: Lynn Shannon's Journey
Melissa Lashure Melissa Lashure

From Lawyer to Author: Lynn Shannon's Journey

Author Lynn Shannon discusses her journey from being a lawyer to becoming a self-published author. She talks about her Triumph Over Adversity series and how it came to be based on reader requests. Lynn shares her writing process and how she develops suspenseful storylines. She also mentions some of her favorite authors and books in the Christian romantic suspense genre. Lynn discusses her favorite Bible verse and what readers can expect from her next. The conversation ends with a discussion on her Christmas novellas and how listeners can connect with her.

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