The Women Books & More’s Podcast

Ellen Baker on Summerland Cove, Family Secrets, and the Perfect Summer Gone Wrong

On this episode of Women, Books & More, bestselling novelist Ellen Baker joins us to talk about her new novel, Summerland Cove, a moving work of contemporary women’s fiction set on the coast of Maine. Known for writing emotionally layered stories about family relationships, identity, memory, and belonging, Ellen Baker creates vivid settings that feel deeply connected to the characters themselves. In addition to her work as a novelist, she is also a reinvention coach who helps people navigate major life transitions and new beginnings. Summerland Cove unfolds during one pivotal summer at a family cottage in coastal Maine, where loved ones gather to celebrate a milestone birthday, a wedding, and a wedding anniversary. But when a family member disappears just before the summer begins, long-held tensions, secrets, and shifting relationships begin to surface. In this episode, Ellen Baker discusses: * The inspiration behind Summerland Cove * Writing contemporary family drama set in coastal Maine * How setting shapes identity, memory, and emotional connection * Creating realistic family relationships in women’s fiction * The contrast between celebration, loss, and uncertainty * Why Maine fiction continues to resonate with readers * Reinvention, new beginnings, and emotional healing If you love books about family secrets, summer novels set in Maine, women’s fiction, multigenerational stories, and emotionally rich literary fiction, this episode is for you. Contact Ellen to request a visit with your book club and to download the Summerland Cove book club reading guide. ellenbakernovels.com [http://www.ellenbakernovels.com/] As always, we love to hear from you. Send your comments, questions, and guest suggestions to womenbooksandmore@gmail.com [womenbooksandmore@gmail.com]

Lisa See on Daughters of the Sun and Moon and the Power of Women's Stories

New York Times bestselling author Lisa See joins Irene Rawlings to discuss her latest novel, Daughters of the Sun and Moon, set in 1870s Los Angeles and inspired by the lives of three Chinese immigrant women who must carve out a living for themselves in a rough frontier town where violence was commonplace and anti-Chinese sentiment ran high. Drawing on her Chinese American heritage and a lifelong fascination with history, Lisa has spent more than three decades bringing overlooked stories to life. The conversation explores the inspiration behind her new novel, the history of early Los Angeles, and the themes that run through much of her work—friendship, family, secrets, forgiveness, and the enduring bonds between women. In this episode, Lisa discusses: * The inspiration behind Daughters of the Sun and Moon * What Los Angeles was like in 1870 when her characters Dove, Petal, and Moon arrive in the city * How her family's history continues to influence her writing * Growing up with her mother, author and literary critic Carolyn See * The role books and storytelling played in her childhood * The journey from On Gold Mountain to an internationally celebrated fiction career * Why friendship, secrets, guilt, forgiveness, and women's relationships remain at the heart of her work Connect with Lisa See Visit Lisa's website for upcoming speaking engagements, book signings, library events, and to request a virtual appearance with your book club. https://lisasee.com/ [https://lisasee.com/] Connect with Women, Books & More womenbooksandmore@gmail.com [womenbooksandmore@gmail.com]

Pauline Frommer on Smart Travel, Family Vacations, Packing Hacks & Hidden Destinations

On this episode of Women, Books & More, host Irene Rawlings welcomes renowned travel expert Pauline Frommer, co-president of Frommer's [https://www.frommers.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] and daughter of legendary travel pioneer Arthur Frommer, creator of the iconic Europe on $5 a Day travel guides. Pauline shares stories from her childhood travels with her father and offers practical advice for today’s travelers—from carry-on packing strategies and the best time to book airfare to navigating crowded destinations and discovering lesser-known gems across Europe. In this lively conversation, Irene and Pauline discuss: * The legacy of Arthur Frommer and the evolution of travel journalism * Why packing light can completely change your travel experience * Airline booking tips and travel hacks * Whether travel advisors are more valuable than ever * Europe’s best seasons for travel and how to avoid peak crowds * Summer and fall travel trends and underrated destinations * Family vacations and the rise of multi-generational travel * Villa rentals, beach stays, and slow travel experiences * Cruise safety concerns after COVID and recent health headlines * Pauline’s upcoming European travels and favorite destinations Whether you’re planning a trip to Italy, dreaming about Paris, organizing a family getaway, or simply love travel stories, this episode is packed with expert insight and inspiration. Visit Frommer's Official Website [https://www.frommers.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] for travel news, destination guides, and insider tips.

Robert Edsel on The Monuments Men, the heroic Rose Valland, and Recovering WWII Stolen Art

Women, Books & More sits down with author Robert Edsel, whose groundbreaking research brought the true story of the Monuments Men to a global audience—and ultimately to the screen in George Clooney’s acclaimed film The Monuments Men, featuring an ensemble cast including Matt Damon, Bill Murray, John Goodman, Bob Balaban, Hugh Bonneville, and Cate Blanchett. The film The Monuments Men introduced many viewers to a lesser-known but profoundly important chapter of World War II history—the Allied mission to protect and recover Europe’s stolen cultural heritage. Alongside films such as Good Night, and Good Luck, it reflects a powerful focus on moral urgency and humanity in times of war. Watch The Monuments Men on Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, and other streaming platforms. Robert Edsel is also the founder of the Monuments Men and Women Foundation, an organization that continues the urgent work of locating, identifying, and returning art stolen by the Nazis during WWII to its rightful owners. monumentsmenandwomenfnd.org [https://www.monumentsmenandwomenfnd.org/] In this conversation, we explore: * Who the Monuments Men were and how the Allied effort to save Europe’s cultural heritage began * How Robert Edsel uncovered and researched this largely forgotten history * The ongoing mission to recover and repatriate stolen artwork through the Foundation * The translation and significance of Rose Valland’s diary and her pivotal role in preserving European art during the war * Edsel’s recent book Remember Us: American Sacrifice, Dutch Freedom, and a Forever Promise Forged in World War II, which explores the Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten, where more than 8,000 American service members are buried and honored by generations of Dutch families who continue to care for their graves * https://www.abmc.gov/cemeteries-memorials/about-netherlands-american-cemetery/ [https://www.abmc.gov/cemeteries-memorials/about-netherlands-american-cemetery/]

Douglas Preston & Aletheia Preston Discuss Paradox: Cloning, Cults, Religious Relics & the Extinction Series

This week, bestselling thriller author Douglas Preston joins us with his daughter—and new writing partner—Aletheia Preston to discuss Paradox, the gripping second novel in their Extinction series. In Paradox, a reclusive man is found dead under grisly and suspicious circumstances in the Colorado wilderness. CBI Agent Cash and Eagle County Sheriff Colcord investigate a trail of bizarre killings, mysterious money transfers, a fanatical secret society, and a powerful religious relic that may connect them all. Meanwhile, cloned Neanderthals hiding deep in the Colorado mountains appear to be waiting for something…extraordinary. Douglas and Aletheia Preston discuss the science and ethics of cloning, the appeal of conspiracy thrillers, and why Paradox feels frighteningly close to reality. From genetic engineering and secret cults to religious mysteries and modern technology, this conversation dives into the ideas shaping today’s smartest thrillers. In this episode: * Douglas Preston and Aletheia Preston on writing together as father and daughter * The science and ethics behind cloning and genetic manipulation * Religious relics, cults, conspiracy, and suspense fiction * Why Paradox and the Extinction series feel so plausible * How real-world technology is influencing modern thrillers For more about Douglas Preston’s books: prestonchild.com [https://www.prestonchild.com/]