WJHG Chapter Chat

Author Priya Parmar joins Chapter Chat to discuss her novel The Original, and the enduring fascination with Katherine Hepburn. Parmar shares how she balances deep research with imaginative storytelling. Parmar blends real people, places, and details with fiction in a way that feels authentic without being constrained by the record. She also walks us through the meticulous care she put into crafting the book, from shaping character and voice to honoring the era’s texture while building a compelling, original narrative.

Kristy Woodson Harvey joins Chapter Chat to talk about her latest release, Summer State of Mind and why “found family” remains one of her favorite themes to explore on the page. We also dig into the power of a “hook book,” the irresistible read that sparks a lifelong love of reading, and how Kristy approaches writing stories that pull readers in and keep them there.

Corinne Sullivan joins Chapter Chat to talk about her latest thriller, Yours Always, and the eight-year gap between her first and second novels. She shares what it’s like balancing writing with motherhood and her role as Senior News Editor at Cosmopolitan, plus how the changing media landscape has shaped her career and her storytelling.

Author and former TV news producer Nikesha Elise Williams joins Chapter Chat to talk about her latest novel, The Seven Daughters of Dupree. It's a layered family story where secrets don’t stay buried and generational trauma shapes what gets passed down. The Seven Daughters of Dupree touches on the resilience of Black women and the complicated love that holds families together. In this episode, Williams also breaks down what writers should know about self-publishing versus traditional publishing, and how her media background informs the way she tells stories.

Author Emily Carpenter joins Chapter Chat to talk about her newest novel, A Spell for Saints and Sinners, a Southern Gothic story set in Savannah, Georgia. We dig into her research process, how she builds characters and scenes, and the winding road that led her to becoming an author—ups, downs, and all.

In this episode of Chapter Chat, Donna Jones Alward takes us aboard the Titanic through her novel Ship of Dreams. From meticulous historical research to the overlooked realities of women’s lives at the time, we explore what the tragedy reveals about society, ambition, and the personal stories history can’t fully capture.

This week on Chapter Chat, author Jennifer Moorman discusses her newest release, The Charmed Library. Together, we dive into the heart of magical realism, a genre where the extraordinary slips into the ordinary just enough to change what we notice, what we believe, and what we’re brave enough to imagine. Jennifer shares the inspiration behind The Charmed Library, what draws her to stories rooted in wonder, and why “magic” doesn’t have to mean wands and spells. It can be the moments that crack open our routines and remind us we’re alive. From the emotional resonance of place to the way books help us find our way back to ourselves, this conversation is an invitation to look for enchantment in the world around us. If you’ve ever needed a story that feels like a warm light in a familiar room, this episode is for you.

Shelley Noble joins Chapter Chat to discuss her new novel, The Sisters of Book Row, and the enduring power of stories in a time when books and the people who write, share, and protect them are increasingly under pressure. We talk craft, creative curiosity, and how art (including writing) helps us make meaning, build empathy, and keep history from repeating itself. Noble also reflects on the real-world conversations around censorship and book challenges, why access to literature matters, and what’s at stake when communities decide which stories get to be heard. A thoughtful, timely episode about the freedom to create and the responsibility to keep pages turning.

Terah Shelton Harris joins Chapter Chat to talk about her new novel, Where the Wildflowers Grow, and the kind of literary, character-driven storytelling that lingers long after the last page. We dig into fresh starts and second chances, and why the best books leave you knowing something you didn’t when you began. Harris also shares her journey from librarian to best-selling author, and how years spent connecting readers with stories shaped her voice as a novelist. Plus: an honest conversation about censorship and book challenges, and why library access matters more than ever.

In this episode of Chapter Chat, we explore the "Sophomore Shift" with author Karen Winn as she discusses the release of her highly anticipated second novel, The Society. Karen takes us inside her writing process, sharing how she navigated the unique challenges of following up a successful debut and the evolution of her craft. We dive deep into the world of elite social clubs and the toxic power of rumors that fuel the mystery within her pages. Karen explains her approach to character development and how she builds complex, layered figures who must navigate the high-stakes social circles of Boston. We also discuss how the historic and atmospheric Boston setting serves as a vital backdrop, adding depth and tension to the suspense. Whether you're an aspiring novelist or a fan of sophisticated thrillers, this conversation offers a masterclass in building character and atmosphere. In this episode, we discuss: The Sophomore Shift: Navigating the pressure and process of writing a second novel. Character Craft: Building deep, motivated characters within a suspenseful narrative. Elite Circles & Rumors: The inspiration behind the social clubs and secrets in The Society. The Boston Atmosphere: Using a real-world setting to create a layered, immersive experience. The intersection of mystery, reputation, and social status.

In this episode of Chapter Chat, we sit down with debut author Angela Shupe to discuss the release of her first novel, In the Light of the Sun. Angela takes us behind the scenes of her debut journey, sharing the highs and lows of becoming a published author and the pivotal role her faith played throughout the process. Beyond the technicalities of writing, Angela opens up about how she found profound joy in the creative process and how family stories she heard as a child are woven into the fabric of her novel. Whether you are an aspiring writer looking for inspiration or a reader seeking a story of hope and light, this conversation offers a heartfelt look at what it means to follow a calling and find purpose in the pages. In this episode, we discuss: The inspiration behind In the Light of the Sun. What it’s really like to navigate the journey of a debut author. How to maintain joy and faith during the long road to publication.

This Chapter Chat episode helps you understand how reading to your child early on can make a huge difference in their success when they start school. It's all about giving your child the best possible start! We talk with the Early Learning Coalition about how important it is to read to children from a young age. We'll learn about simple things you can do at home to help your child get ready for kindergarten and why early help can make a big difference in their learning journey.

Author Loretta Ellsworth gives listeners an inside look into the development of her latest novel, The Jilted Countess. It's the story of a Hungarian countess looking for an American husband and being bombarded with marriage proposals after World War II. Ellsworth is down to earth and insightful. This is a great listen for anyone interested in historical fiction or those who are interested in the publishing process. 

As the year comes to a close, Chapter Chat host Jessica Foster is joined by avid reader and Bay County Public Library Foundation Executive Director Laura Roesch to reveal their top 5 books of the year. These are books you'll definitely want to add to your TBR list! Listen in and see if you agree with their choices. 

Best-selling author Madeline Martin joins the podcast to discuss her latest novel, The Secret Book Society. Martin discusses her detailed writing process and why she loves historical fiction. Liteners also get a preview of her next novel, which is a historical fiction novel set in dual timelines. 

You'll feel full of holiday cheer after listening to friends and co-authors Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb chat about their collaborations. The two have two beautifully written historical fiction holiday novels they've worked on together. This is a fun and festive conversation. 

It's the holiday season, and author RaeAnne Thayne shares the magic of writing novels set during December. In her latest release, Snow Kissed, Thayne explores relationships and connection. Thayne and host Jessica Foster talk about getting in the Christmas spirit, helping readers find joy and exploring your life's calling.   

In Brittany Penner's memoir, Children Like Us, she explores adoption and identity. As a Metis woman adopted into a Mennonite family, Penner opens up about her unique experience and the challenges she faced. This is a raw and vulnerable conversation focused on the layered aspects of adoption. Host Jessica Foster also has a unique perspective as an adoptive mother. In this conversation, Penner and Foster discuss the different parts of the adoption triad and what questions may arise as children grow. 

Author Katherine Reay discusses the creative process behind her latest historical fiction novel, The English Masterpiece. In this chat, Reay chats with host Jessica Foster about the importance of art and how it helps shape history. She also offers insight on how to craft a successful novel.           

Who doesn't love a good hair day? In her second novel, Good Hair Days, author Grace Helena Walz explores family bonds. Listen to this chat to hear how Dolly Parton and family names play a role in this deeply moving story. Grace describes Good Hair Days as having a "sweet and salty" side.  Grace and podcast host Jessica Foster bond over Southern culture and traditions. Grace also explains her non-traditional path to becoming an author and how she released two novels in less than a year. 

She's known as an expert in all things Disney, especially food. Now, she's a published author. Disney Food Blog's AJ Wolfe chats about her new book, Disney Adults: Exploring (and Falling in Love with) a Magical Subculture. You'll laugh and feel nostalgic while listening to AJ and Podcast Host Jessica Foster chat about their lives as Disney Adults.  Even if you aren't a Disney Adult yourself, you'll enjoy this deep dive into the magical subculture. 

Think fall vibes and cozy mysteries in this Chapter Chat episode. Author Ellery Adams discusses her latest novel, The Tattered Cover. Adams talks about her writing process and Secret, Book and Scone Society series. She has a special connection to bookstores and reveals why she thinks avid readers are some of the most welcoming and interesting people in society. 

Hank Phillippi Ryan talks with host Jessica Foster about her latest novel, All This Could be Yours. Ryan is an award-winning investigative journalist and best-selling author. She talks about never giving up on your dreams after becoming an author in mid-life. At the end, Foster reveals a deeply personal dream of her own.  

Best-selling author Kristina McMorris introduces listeners to her latest historical fiction novel, The Girls of Good Fortune. This is a story describing the Shanghai Tunnels in 1888. It explores  identity and the complexities of the past. In this conversation, Kristina shares tidbits from her own life that helped influence her writing.   

International best-selling author Sarah McCoy delves into themes of self-doubt, redefining life and empowering others. Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely? is McCoy's latest historical fiction work. She talks about how three famous actresses inspired her development of the novel's lead character. McCoy is funny, frank and full of energy.  

Best-selling author Lisa See talks about how her heritage influences her writing of ancient Chinese culture. In her most recent historical fiction novel, she dives into the world of a groundbreaking female physician during the Ming Dynasty. This story shows how women can break barriers in a world where they were often hidden. 

In this episode, we take a deep dive into declining literacy rates and one community's efforts to make improvements. You'll hear from Laura Roesch, the Executive Director of the Bay County Library Foundation. Roesch highlights a community wide initiative that's helping improve literacy rates in one Florida community. It's an approach that can be duplicated across the nation. 

Best-selling author Kristin Harmel talks about her love for historical fiction and the joy she has for life. Harmel is a breast cancer survivor. Her story of resilience in the face of adversity is inspiring. She and host Jessica Foster share their survivorship stories and love of reading. This is an episode that will leave you with hope and a deeper understanding of Harmel's inspiration. 

Author Eliza Knight talks about how the Women's Equal Pay Act helped inspire her latest historical fiction novel, Confessions of a Grammar Queen. She also chats about a newly published novel under her pseudonym Michelle Brandon. Rush Week is a departure from Knight's typical style. She describes it as a "juicy" novel about sorority life. You'll love the fun and unfiltered conversation in this Chapter Chat episode.   

Author Jenny Hale has an open and honest conversation about her journey from elementary school teacher to best-selling author. She talks about her faith journey and how it guides her writing. This episode is entertaining and heart warming. 

Best-selling author Kristy Woodson Harvey captures listeners with her warm, Southern charm. She talks about her writing process, film adaptations of her novels and interacting with readers. You'll feel like you're having a conversation with a friend. 

Author Ashley Poston talks candidly about overcoming creative burnout and the inspiration behind her latest works. Poston has just returned from a national book tour. She shares humor and joy while talking openly about struggles creatives often face. 

Author Mary Kay Andrews talks about her writing process, latest book release and what's next for her writing journey.