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What if unlocking the secrets of an ancient puzzle could take you on a thrilling journey across continents? Welcome back to The Bookshop Podcast, where we sit down with New York Times bestselling author Danielle Trussoni to uncover the mysteries behind her latest novel, The Puzzle Box. As the second installment in the Mike Brink series, this book showcases Danielle's meticulous research and the fascinating world of savant puzzle-solving. Follow along as we explore Brink's adventure from New York to Japan, unraveling enigmatic characters and deadly puzzles.

Danielle takes us behind the scenes of her character development process, particularly focusing on Dr. Gupta and Ume. From taking classes on cryptocurrency and encryption to drawing inspiration from historical female warriors known as onna-bugeisha, Danielle's dedication to authenticity is nothing short of impressive.

Danielle Trussoni is the New York Times bestselling author of the novels The Ancestor, Angelology, and Angelopolis, all New York Times Notable Books, and the memoirs The Fortress and Falling Through the Earth, named one of the ten best books of the year by The New York Times Book Review. She writes the monthly horror column for the New York Times Book Review. A graduate of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop and winner of the Michener-Copernicus Society of America Fellowship, her work has been translated into more than thirty languages.

Danielle Trussoni

The Puzzle Box, Danielle Trussoni

The Puzzle Master, Danielle Trussoni

Angelopolis, Danielle Trussoni

The Woman in the Window, A.J. Finn

End of Story, A.J. Finn

Shutter, Ramona Emerson

Exposure, Ramona Emerson

Sing Her Down, Ivy Pachoda

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Mandy Jackson-Beverly
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In this episode, I chat with author Clare Beams about her new novel The Garden, earning her MFA from Columbia University, her surprising stint as a high school English teacher on Cape Cod, and how these experiences have informed her writing career. Claire's work is renowned for its enchanting touch of magical realism, earning comparisons to literary greats like Shirley Jackson.

We discuss the history of diethylstilbestrol (DES). This synthetic non-steroidal estrogen was historically widely used to prevent potential miscarriages by stimulating the synthesis of estrogen and progesterone in the placenta. Claire’s thoughtful insights provide a deep dive into the complex issues surrounding the use of DES and how they are intricately woven into The Garden.

Clare reflects on her childhood in Newtown, Connecticut, and reveals how her early fascination with magical realism was sparked by the historic house she grew up in. We touch on the generational impact of maternal suffering and resilience, and Claire shares her current reading recommendations alongside a sneak peek into her upcoming project.

Clare Beams

The Garden, Clare Beams

Terrace Story, Hilary Leichter

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Mandy Jackson-Beverly
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In this episode, I chat with author and poet David Ebenbach about Possible Happiness, his latest teen and YA novel set in Philadelphia in the 80s.

What can a high school journey in the late 80s tell us about today's struggles with mental health and sexuality? Acclaimed author and academic David Ebenbach explores this question through the lens of his latest novel, Possible Happiness. Discover how David's personal experiences shape his characters and narrative, providing a deeply relatable and insightful look into the complexities of teenage life. Unpack the surprising classification of his novel as a YA book and understand the nuances behind the protagonist Jacob's experiences and challenges.

We also dive into the multifaceted world of David Ebenbach's career, from his poetry and short stories to his commitment to student-centered teaching at Georgetown University. Learn about his creative process, the importance of the arts in education, the therapeutic nature of reading, and the bittersweet emotions tied to an empty nest.
Enjoy,
Mandy

David Ebenbach

Possible Happiness, David Ebenbach

A Thousand Times Before, Asha Thanki

The Bees, Laline Paull

Les Fourmis (Empire of The Ants), Bernard Werber

Ada Limon Books

Anne Carson Books

For Australian listeners, you can purchase books from yourbookstore.io

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The Bookshop Podcast
Mandy Jackson-Beverly
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