Between the Pages: A Bradford Press Podcast
brad hanson
Before a favorite book begins, there is always a first moment — a place, a character, and a quiet introduction to a world we haven’t visited yet. Each week, Brad shares reflections of world of storytelling, providing insight into the craft and specific commentary on books published by Bradford Press. Each episode features a short reading from a book in the Bradford Press catalog and a reflection on why stories still matter in a fast-moving world. If you enjoy books, listening, and meaningful moments of quiet each week, this is where the journey starts.
Episodes
The Secret a Character Cannot Tell : The Cost of Silence | Between the Pages Season 2 EP10
The Secret a Character Cannot Tell The Cost of Silence What does keeping a secret cost the person who carries it? Everyone has secrets. Some are harmless. Others carry the weight of fear, loyalty, responsibility, or regret. But in fiction, the most compelling secrets aren't always the ones that conceal a crime. Sometimes they're the ones that reveal who a character really is. In Season 2, Episode 10 of Between the Pages, host Brad Hanson explores the emotional cost of silence through three powerful readings from Bradford Press novels. In The Roses Remember, Doris Finch has spent years living beneath the shadow of her family's troubled history. When a murder investigation threatens to expose secrets from the past, Doris must confront a painful question: Is remaining silent really protecting her, or has the truth she's afraid to reveal become her greatest burden? In The Miami Connection, Sofia Ortega faces a very different dilemma. Married to a dangerous drug trafficker whose suspicions are growing, Sofia makes a decision that could change everything. For her, keeping a secret isn't simply an act of fear. It may be the first step toward reclaiming control of her life. And in The Secret Eye, young Navy radar operator Charlie Brand helps guide damaged American aircraft safely back to the USS Lexington during World War II. But when grateful pilots ask how he accomplished it, Charlie discovers that doing something extraordinary doesn't necessarily mean he's free to explain it. His silence isn't about fear or deception. It's about duty. Three stories. Three secrets. Three very different reasons for remaining silent. Through these readings and his accompanying commentary, Brad explores how writers use secrecy to reveal character, create emotional tension, and challenge readers to look beyond appearances. Why do people withhold the truth? When does silence become a burden? Can keeping a secret be an act of courage? And how do we distinguish between secrecy that protects someone and secrecy that causes harm? Following recent episodes exploring evidence, truth, and the clues readers sometimes misunderstand, The Secret a Character Cannot Tell takes the conversation in a more personal direction. Because understanding what someone has done isn't always the same as understanding why they did it. And understanding a character's decision doesn't necessarily mean agreeing with it. This week's story question: Have you ever understood why a character kept a secret, even though you believed they should have told the truth? Join Brad for another journey between the pages, where silence can reveal as much about a character as the words they speak. Discover the books, explore previous episodes, and learn more about Bradford Press at BradfordPress.net Between the Pages podcast, Brad Hanson, Bradford Press, The Secret a Character Cannot Tell, The Cost of Silence, secrets in fiction, storytelling podcast, book podcast, fiction podcast, literary podcast, character development, character motivation, emotional storytelling, writing compelling characters, secrets and lies, truth and deception
The Clue You Were Suppose to Miss: When Clues Hide in Plain Sight | Between the Pages Season 2, EP9
The Clue You Were Supposed to Miss When the Truth Is Hiding in Plain Sight Full Podcast Description What if the most important clue in a mystery isn't hidden at all? What if you saw it, understood the words, knew the facts—and still missed what it meant? In this episode of Between the Pages, Brad Hanson returns to Tumblebrook to explore one of the most satisfying techniques in mystery fiction: the clue hiding in plain sight. Through three readings featuring Amelia Farnsworth, Clara Henderson, and the ever-observant Lady Grey, Brad examines the subtle game played between mystery writer and reader. Sometimes a clue seems too ordinary to matter. Sometimes the evidence is noticed but interpreted incorrectly. And sometimes one new piece of information forces us to reconsider everything we thought we understood. The progression is simple: Notice. Interpret. Reconsider. But that's where the mystery writer has an advantage. The writer already knows where the story is going. The reader has to decide which details matter, determine what the evidence means, and construct an explanation—often without realizing how many assumptions have slipped into the story along the way. Following his two-part conversation with attorney and educator Russ Pearlman about evidence, certainty, and truth, Brad discovers an unexpected connection between those questions and the mysteries he's been writing all along. Because good mystery fiction doesn't always hide the truth from us. Sometimes it puts the truth right in front of us... and lets our own assumptions do the hiding. This week's story question: Why are we so willing to believe the first explanation that makes sense? Join us for another trip to Tumblebrook, where Amelia is following the evidence, Clara is asking questions, and Lady Grey may already know considerably more than everyone else. Discover more books, stories, and episodes of Between the Pages at BradfordPress.net. Between the Pages podcast, Brad Hanson, Bradford Press, The Clue You Were Supposed to Miss, Tumblebrook mysteries, Tumblebrook cozy mysteries, Amelia Farnsworth, Clara Henderson, Lady Grey, cozy mystery, cozy mystery podcast, mystery fiction, mystery writing, mystery clues, clues hiding in plain sight, hidden clues, red herrings, mystery readers, writing mysteries, storytelling, evidence and interpretation, assumptions, how mysteries work, mystery author, mystery novels, book podcast, fiction podcast, reading podcast, author podcast, behind the story, writing craft, truth and evidence, The Reasonable Citizen, Russ Pearlman, critical thinking through fiction, books and reading
What Would Change Your Mind? | A Conversation with Russ Pearlman - Part 2 |Between the Pages Season 2 EP8
What Would Change Your Mind? A Conversation with Russ Pearlman — Part Two What would it take to change your mind? In Part Two of Brad Hanson's conversation with attorney and educator Russ Pearlman, Between the Pages goes deeper into one of the most difficult questions we face in an age of seemingly unlimited information: How do we know what is true? The conversation explores the difference between sincerity and accuracy, why motive may give us a reason to investigate but doesn't necessarily prove anything, and why the origin—or provenance—of evidence can matter as much as the evidence itself. Then Brad puts the ideas to the test. Russ is presented with a hypothetical video, but he doesn't receive all the information about it at once. Instead, Brad reveals the evidence piece by piece. An unknown source. A denial. Forensic analysis. And finally, independently authenticated provenance. The video never changes. The underlying truth never changes. But what can reasonably be concluded from the evidence does. The exercise raises an important distinction: More evidence isn't necessarily the same thing as better evidence. And it leads to another surprisingly powerful answer: I don't know. In a culture that often rewards immediate certainty, could recognizing the limits of what we know actually be a sign of better reasoning? This episode also marks an important new chapter for Between the Pages as Brad introduces his developing nonfiction research project, The Reasonable Citizen. At its center is a deceptively simple question: How does an ordinary person determine what is true? Brad explains why he's taking that question outside his own office and speaking with attorneys, meteorologists, engineers, journalists, researchers, and others whose professions require them to evaluate evidence, uncertainty, expertise, and competing explanations. The goal isn't to tell listeners what to think. It's to explore how we think—and how we can become more careful about the conclusions we reach. And there's room in that conversation for disagreement. Agreement cannot be the price of admission. Visit BradfordPress.net to explore our books, Between the Pages, and everything happening at Bradford Press. Between the Pages podcast, Brad Hanson, Bradford Press, Russ Pearlman, The Reasonable Citizen, What Would Change Your Mind, truth and evidence, evaluating evidence, critical thinking, intellectual humility, provenance, authentication, corroboration, misinformation, information literacy, media literacy, legal reasoning, evidence and truth, changing your mind, decision making, uncertainty, source verification, evaluating sources, how do we know what is true, reasonable conclusions, truth seeking, critical reasoning, podcast about truth, nonfiction research, evidence based thinking, thinking critically #BetweenThePages #BradfordPress #BradHanson #TheReasonableCitizen #RussPearlman #WhatWouldChangeYourMind #Truth #Evidence #CriticalThinking #IntellectualHumility #MediaLiteracy #InformationLiteracy #Provenance #SourceVerification #HowDoWeKnow #TruthSeeking #DecisionMaking #Curiosity #PodcastInterview #BooksAndIdeas
When Facts Are Not Enough: A Conversation with Russ Pearlman - Part One | Between the Pages Season 2 EP7
When the Facts Aren’t Enough A Conversation with Russ Pearlman — Part One Full Podcast Description How do you know when you know enough? Every day, we make decisions based on incomplete information. We read articles, watch videos, listen to experts, hear competing explanations, and try to decide what the evidence actually allows us to believe. But having information isn’t the same thing as understanding it. And having evidence isn’t necessarily the same thing as knowing what that evidence proves. In this episode of Between the Pages, Brad Hanson sits down with attorney Russ Pearlman who specializes in law and AI Governance for the first half of a thought-provoking conversation about evidence, judgment, certainty, and truth. Drawing on his experience in law, Russ explores what it means to reach reasonable conclusions without having every fact, why new evidence should sometimes cause us to reconsider what we believe, and why changing your mind isn’t necessarily a sign that your original reasoning failed. The conversation also examines a challenge increasingly important in an information-saturated world: Does having greater access to information actually make us better at understanding it? Along the way, Brad connects these real-world questions with something he recently discovered beneath his own fiction. Amelia Farnsworth follows clues. Charlie Brand interprets uncertain signals. Max Larkin evaluates sources. Different stories, different worlds—but each character is ultimately wrestling with the same question: How do I know what’s true? And before the conversation is finished, another question emerges—one that may be considerably harder: What evidence would cause you to change your mind? This is Part One of Brad’s conversation with Russ Pearlman. In Episode 8, the discussion continues as Brad gives Russ a hypothetical piece of evidence—a video—and reveals additional information about it one piece at a time. The video never changes. But what can reasonably be concluded about it does. Visit BradfordPress.net for books, podcast episodes, and more from Bradford Press. Topics in this episode Evidence and truth • Critical thinking • How we form beliefs • Information vs. understanding • Evaluating evidence • Intellectual humility • Changing your mind • Legal reasoning • Corroboration • Authentication • Media literacy • Decision-making under uncertainty • Storytelling and truth Tags / Hashtags #BetweenThePages #BradfordPress #BradHanson #RussPearlman #Truth #Evidence #CriticalThinking #HowDoWeKnow #MediaLiteracy #IntellectualHumility #DecisionMaking #LegalReasoning #InformationLiteracy #Storytelling #PodcastInterview #BooksAndIdeas #Curiosity #TruthAndEvidence
The Stories That Found Me: Where Stories Really Begin | Between the Pages Season 2 EP6
Season 2 • Episode 6 The Stories That Found Me: Where Stories Really Begin Where do stories really begin? Is it with the first sentence... or years before an author ever sits down to write? In this deeply personal episode of Between the Pages, Bradford Press Managing Partner Brad Hanson steps away from the novels themselves to share the remarkable journey behind them. From the quiet influence of World War II radar operator Charlie Stainer, to unforgettable summers at Many Point Scout Reservation and canoe trips through Minnesota's Boundary Waters, to a simple question that eventually inspired The Miami Connection, Brad reflects on how ordinary moments quietly became extraordinary stories. More importantly, he explores something many of us discover only by looking backward—that life's seemingly unrelated experiences often reveal a purpose we couldn't see at the time. Whether you're a reader, a writer, or simply someone wondering how the experiences of your own life fit together, this episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and consider that the people you've met, the places you've loved, and the questions that won't leave you alone may be preparing you for a story you haven't yet imagined. In this episode: • The real-life inspiration behind The Secret Eye • Why northern Minnesota became the heart of Tumblebrook • The question that inspired The Miami Connection • How ordinary experiences become unforgettable stories • Looking back to recognize purpose and providence • Why every Bradford Press novel ultimately explores the search for truth Visit BradfordPress.net to discover our books, explore the Between the Pages podcast, and learn more about Bradford Press. Join the conversation and receive exclusive behind-the-scenes content through the Bradford Press Society on Patreon, and continue these reflections throughout the week on Substack. #BetweenThePagesPodcast #BradfordPress #BradHanson #Storytelling #BehindTheStory #AuthorLife #WritingCommunity #HistoricalFiction #CozyMystery #ThrillerBooks #WritersLife #ReadersOfInstagram #BookPodcast #AmWriting #CreativeJourney #WorldWarII #Minnesota #BoundaryWaters #Purpose #TruthInStories
The Hero Nobody Sees: Why Every Story Needs a Companion | Between the Pages Season 2 EP5
The Hero Nobody Sees Why Every Great Story Needs a Companion Every great hero has someone standing just outside the spotlight. They're rarely the ones history remembers. Their names may never appear on the cover of the book. Yet without them, the hero's journey might never reach its destination. In this episode of Between the Pages, Brad Hanson explores one of storytelling's most enduring relationships—the companion. Through three unforgettable characters from historical fiction, cozy mysteries, and thrillers, he reveals how the people beside the hero often shape the story just as profoundly as the hero themselves. Lilly Hope gives Charlie Brand a reason to believe in a future beyond the war in The Secret Eye. Lady Grey, the beloved British Shorthair of Tumblebrook, quietly guides Amelia Farnsworth toward truths others fail to notice. Ed Harper works behind the scenes in The Miami Connection, providing the wisdom, strategy, and steady leadership that allow Max Larkin to pursue the truth. Through exclusive readings from each novel and reflections on the writing process, Brad explores a simple but powerful truth: Great heroes may stand in the spotlight, but someone standing just outside the light helped them get there. This episode is a celebration of the companions who give us hope, perspective, clarity, and courage—and an invitation to reflect on the people who have quietly shaped our own lives. In this episode: Why every memorable hero needs someone beside them. How Lilly Hope becomes Charlie Brand's anchor throughout The Secret Eye. Why Lady Grey is much more than Amelia Farnsworth's faithful cat. How Ed Harper quietly becomes the foundation beneath Max Larkin's investigation. Why companions don't diminish heroes—they reveal who they truly are. The timeless lesson that none of us reaches our destination alone. As you listen, consider this question: If someone wrote the story of your life, who would be standing beside you? After you finish listening, take a moment to thank someone who's been the companion in your own story. They may never realize how much they've shaped your life—but chances are, your story wouldn't be the same without them.
The Many Faces of Heroism | Between the Pages Season 2 EP4
The Many Faces of Heroism Three Genres. Three Heroes. One Choice. What makes someone a hero? Is it courage? Duty? Compassion? The willingness to tell the truth when it would be easier to remain silent? In this episode of Between the Pages, Brad Hanson steps beyond genre to explore one of storytelling's most enduring questions. Through three very different characters from three very different novels, he examines how heroism often appears in the quiet choices ordinary people make every day. Charlie Brand, the young radar operator from The Secret Eye, never commands a ship or flies a fighter aircraft. Yet his competence empowers everyone around him to make life-saving decisions. Amelia Farnsworth, the innkeeper from The Roses Remember, doesn't wear a badge or carry a weapon. Her greatest strength is the compassion she extends to others, standing beside those who need hope when their world begins to fall apart. Max Larkin, the investigative journalist from The Miami Connection, discovers that pursuing the truth comes at an unimaginable personal cost. His conviction reminds us that integrity often demands sacrifice. Through exclusive readings from each novel and reflections on the writing process, Brad explores a simple but profound idea: The greatest heroes don't seek power—they empower others. Whether through competence, compassion, or conviction, each leaves the people around them stronger than they found them. This episode is a celebration of the quiet heroes whose stories often go unnoticed and an invitation to consider the ordinary choices that define extraordinary lives. In this episode: Why heroism looks different across historical fiction, cozy mysteries, and thrillers. How Charlie Brand demonstrates the quiet power of competence. Why Amelia Farnsworth reminds us that compassion is one of the greatest forms of leadership. How Max Larkin's pursuit of truth illustrates the courage of conviction. Why lasting influence comes from empowering others rather than seeking recognition. The timeless connection between storytelling and the virtues that shape our lives. If you've ever wondered why certain fictional heroes stay with you long after you've finished the last page, this conversation is for you. Continue the conversation by joining the Bradford Press Society on Patreon, following Brad's writing on Substack at bradfordpress.substack.com, or visiting bradfordpress.net to discover the books, podcast, and the stories behind the stories.
Building a World Readers Believe | Between the Pages Season 2 EP3
Building a World Readers Believe How do you convince readers that a fictional world is real? In this episode of Between the Pages, Brad Hanson takes listeners behind the scenes of The Secret Eye to explore one of the greatest challenges in historical fiction: earning a reader's trust. Charlie Brand never existed. Neither did Hadaki Yamatsumi, Lilly, or Gil. Yet the world they inhabit is built upon years of historical research, declassified military documents, after-action reports, firsthand conversations, and one remarkable invention that quietly helped change the course of World War II. Brad shares how discovering the actual Navy radar training manuals used during the war transformed the way he wrote Charlie Brand's journey. He explores the extraordinary radar training facility built inside a San Diego aircraft hangar using painted concentric circles, wire, and even modified tricycles to simulate aerial combat. What sounds almost unbelievable turns out to be one of the most fascinating examples of wartime innovation. You'll also step inside the famous Tizard Mission as Britain introduces the cavity magnetron to American scientists—a meeting that truly happened, though the conversations had to be imagined. Brad discusses the balance between historical fact and creative interpretation, how he studied Franklin Roosevelt's speeches to capture the rhythm and cadence of his voice, and why authenticity sometimes means preserving the spirit of a person rather than every spoken word. This episode is an invitation into the research, decisions, and invisible craftsmanship that allow historical fiction to feel authentic without ever pretending to replace history. In this episode: Why historical fiction succeeds or fails on the reader's trust. The real Navy radar manuals that inspired Charlie Brand's training. The remarkable story of the Tizard Mission and the cavity magnetron. How Roosevelt's voice shaped fictional dialogue. Why historical conversations are imagined—but the world surrounding them is carefully reconstructed. How after-action reports and wartime records brought the USS Lexington to life. Where history ends... and empathy begins. If you've ever wondered how history becomes fiction—or why some stories feel so real you forget the characters never lived—this episode is for you. Continue the conversation by joining the Bradford Press Society on Patreon, reading behind-the-scenes essays on Substack, or visiting BradfordPress.net to discover more stories. You can find The Secret Eye on Amazon: The Secret Eye #BetweenThePages #BradfordPress #StoriesLiveHere #HistoricalFiction #WWIIHistory #BookPodcast #WWIIHistory #BookPodcast #WritingCommunity #Bookstagram #ReadersofInstagram
Two Sons, Two Nations, One War | Between the Pages Season 2 EP2
Two Sons. Two Nations. One War. Why tell a World War II story from both the American and Japanese perspective? In this episode of Between the Pages, Bradford Press founder Brad Hanson takes listeners behind one of the most important creative decisions in writing The Secret Eye. Rather than telling the story through the eyes of only one nation, Brad explores why he chose to follow two young men—Charlie Brand, an American radar operator, and Hadaki Yamatsumi, a Japanese pilot—whose lives are forever changed by the same war. Discover how Charlie Brand was inspired by the quiet service of real WWII radar operator Charlie Stainer, and why Hadaki was never written as "the enemy," but as another son, another brother, and another young man answering what he believed was his calling. Brad discusses the research behind the novel, the challenge of balancing historical accuracy with compelling fiction, and why childhood memories, family traditions, faith, love, and grief were just as important to the story as aircraft carriers and radar. Through readings from The Secret Eye, you'll discover how historical fiction allows us to see beyond battles and military strategy to the human lives forever shaped by war. Because before history remembered them as enemies... They were simply two sons. Two nations. One war that changed them forever. In this episode you'll discover: Why The Secret Eye alternates between American and Japanese perspectives. The real-life inspiration behind Charlie Brand. How Hadaki Yamatsumi became one of the novel's most compelling characters. The importance of empathy in historical fiction. Why ordinary people often tell the most extraordinary stories. If you enjoy today's episode, please follow Between the Pages, leave a review, and share the podcast with someone who loves books, history, or the writing process. Go beyond the last page by joining the Bradford Press Society on Patreon, reading behind-the-scenes essays on Substack, or visiting BradfordPress.net to discover more stories. You can find The Secret Eye on Amazon: The Secret Eye Between the Pages is the official podcast of Bradford Press, where we explore the stories behind the stories—and discover why stories still matter. Historical Fiction • World War II • Radar • USS Lexington • Pacific War • Radar Operators • MIT Radiation Laboratory • Charlie Brand • WWII History • Writing Process • Historical Research • Authors • Independent Publishing • Between the Pages • Bradford Press
The Secret Eye: When the Story Began | Between the Pages Season 2 EP 1
Season 2 • Episode 1 The Secret Eye: Where the Story Began Podcast Description Every story has an origin. Sometimes it begins with a character. Sometimes with a forgotten moment in history. And sometimes it begins with a person who quietly changes your life. Season Two of Between the Pages opens with the deeply personal story behind The Secret Eye, Bradford Press's World War II historical novel honoring the radar operators whose contributions helped change the course of the Pacific War. For the first time, Brad Hanson steps behind the microphone to share why this novel became much more than historical fiction. Long before Charlie Brand became the fictional "best radar operator in the fleet," there was a real Charlie Brand—a World War II radar operator aboard the USS Lexington, Brad's stepfather, Scoutmaster, mentor, and lifelong friend. In this episode you'll discover: • Why Brad chose radar operators as the heroes of The Secret Eye • The remarkable story of the real Charlie Brand and the influence he had on Brad's life • How an unforgettable visit aboard the USS Lexington inspired the novel • Why Charlie never knew this book was being written • How declassified Navy radar training manuals helped recreate Charlie's wartime training • Why the story begins in England years before Charlie ever touched a radar console You'll also hear a reading from the novel depicting the early British radar experiments that paved the way for one of history's greatest technological breakthroughs—the cavity magnetron—and ultimately the radar systems that helped Allied sailors survive the war. Season Two marks a new direction for Between the Pages. Along with readings from Bradford Press novels, Brad now takes listeners behind the scenes of the writing process, sharing the research, challenges, discoveries, and personal stories that shaped each book. Whether you're a fan of historical fiction, World War II history, or simply love learning how books are created, this episode offers a unique look at the story behind The Secret Eye. Because some stories deserve more than to be read. They deserve to be remembered. You can find The Secret Eye on Amazon: The Secret Eye New to Between the Pages? Season Two explores the stories behind Bradford Press novels—from the historical research and writing process to the real people and events that inspired them. New episodes blend author commentary, historical insight, and exclusive readings to take you beyond the printed page. Historical Fiction • World War II • Radar • USS Lexington • Pacific War • Radar Operators • MIT Radiation Laboratory • Charlie Brand • WWII History • Writing Process • Historical Research • Authors • Independent Publishing • Between the Pages • Bradford Press
The Heart of Historical Fiction | Between the Pages EP25
Episode 25 — The Heart of Historical Fiction History tells us what happened. Historical fiction asks what it felt like to live through it. In Episode 25 of Between the Pages, we complete our three-part exploration of genre by turning to The Heart of Historical Fiction. Through readings from The Secret Eye, we follow Charlie Brand from secret radar training and the laboratories of MIT to the deck of the USS Lexington, where new technology, personal courage, and the uncertainty of war converge. We also step beyond the battlefield to consider the people waiting at home. Through Lilly’s letters, Charlie’s friendship with Gil, and the crew’s transformation into the legendary “Blue Ghost,” the story reveals how war is experienced not only through battles and strategy, but through separation, faith, friendship, fear, humor, and hope. Finally, an older Charlie looks back on radar’s lasting influence and the people whose sacrifice made that future possible. His reflections remind us that history does not end when the fighting stops. It continues through memory, family, technology, and the choices carried into later generations. Together, these readings explore three elements at the heart of historical fiction: History places us there. Humanity makes us care. Legacy carries the story forward. Story Question: Why do stories from the past still matter today? Join host Brad Hanson for a thoughtful examination of how historical fiction restores uncertainty and humanity to events whose endings we already know—and why the past remains meaningful long after it becomes a chapter in a history book. Discover The Secret Eye and the complete Bradford Press collection at BradfordPress.net. Join the conversation on our Facebook Group, The Reading Room Join us as we explore why every great story leaves its characters—and its readers—changed forever. Readings: The Secret Eye mystery storytelling, cozy mystery podcast, book podcast, storytelling podcast, mystery writing, literary podcast, story analysis, fiction podcast, thriller podcast, historical fiction podcast, reading podcast, cozy mystery stories, mystery clues in stories, how mysteries are written, detective storytelling, mystery story structure, story clues and suspense, fiction reading podcast
The Heart of a Thriller | Between the Pages EP24
Episode 24: The Heart of a Thriller What keeps us turning just one more page? Is it the danger? The chase? The conspiracy? Or is it something deeper? In this episode of Between the Pages, we continue our exploration of literary genres by stepping into the high-stakes world of the thriller through three readings from The Miami Connection. Host Brad examines how the best thrillers are built—not simply on action and suspense—but on curiosity, pressure, and courage. You’ll follow investigative journalist Max Larkin as an ordinary assignment becomes the beginning of a dangerous investigation, watch the growing pressure as the truth begins chasing those searching for it, and experience a tense rescue operation where courage becomes the only path forward. Along the way, we’ll explore why great thrillers don’t begin with explosions—they begin with a single unanswered question. We’ll discuss how suspense grows through uncertainty, why emotional stakes matter as much as physical danger, and how the most memorable thrillers challenge their characters to choose between safety and doing what is right. Whether you’re a fan of investigative journalism, crime fiction, political intrigue, or edge-of-your-seat suspense, this episode offers a deeper look at what makes thrillers impossible to put down. Because sometimes the greatest question in a thriller isn’t whether the hero will survive. It’s whether they’ll keep moving forward when every reason tells them to stop. In this episode: Why curiosity is the foundation of every great thriller How pressure transforms an investigation into a personal battle Why courage—not action—is the emotional heart of suspense Readings from The Miami Connection Behind-the-scenes commentary on building tension, pacing, and unforgettable characters Visit BradfordPress.net to discover our complete collection of thrillers, cozy mysteries, and historical fiction. Join the conversation on our Facebook Group, The Reading Room Join us as we explore why every great story leaves its characters—and its readers—changed forever. Readings: The Miami Connection mystery storytelling, cozy mystery podcast, book podcast, storytelling podcast, mystery writing, literary podcast, story analysis, fiction podcast, thriller podcast, historical fiction podcast, reading podcast, cozy mystery stories, mystery clues in stories, how mysteries are written, detective storytelling, mystery story structure, story clues and suspense, fiction reading podcast
The Heart of a Cozy Mystery | Between the Pages EP23
Episode 23 – The Heart of a Cozy Mystery What is it that keeps readers coming back to cozy mysteries long after the final page? In this episode of Between the Pages, we explore what truly makes the cozy mystery genre so enduring. While every great cozy begins with an intriguing mystery, its lasting appeal comes from something deeper—a sense of comfort, memorable characters who feel like friends, and the promise that even after darkness enters a community, hope and restoration can prevail. Through readings from Bradford Press cozy mysteries, we’ll look at how inviting settings, meaningful relationships, and satisfying resolutions create stories readers want to revisit again and again. Along the way, we’ll discuss why cozy mysteries offer more than clever puzzles—they provide a place to belong. Whether you’re a longtime mystery reader, an aspiring author, or someone discovering the genre for the first time, this episode reveals why the heart of a cozy mystery isn’t simply finding the culprit—it’s finding your way home. Visit BradfordPress.net to discover our books, explore past episodes, and learn more about the stories behind the stories. Join the conversation on our Facebook Group, The Reading Room Join us as we explore why every great story leaves its characters—and its readers—changed forever. Readings: The Roses Remember Cinnamon, Lies, and Ledgers The Bookseller's Secret mystery storytelling, cozy mystery podcast, book podcast, storytelling podcast, mystery writing, literary podcast, story analysis, fiction podcast, reading podcast, cozy mystery stories, mystery clues in stories, how mysteries are written, detective storytelling, mystery story structure, story clues and suspense, fiction reading podcast
The Light That Keeps Us Going | Between the Pages: EP22
Episode 22 — The Light That Keeps Us Going Every unforgettable story eventually asks the same question: What keeps us moving forward when every reason says we should quit? In this episode of Between the Pages, we explore one of storytelling’s most enduring themes—hope. Not the easy optimism that ignores hardship, but the quiet resilience that emerges after loss, sacrifice, and uncertainty. Our journey begins in Tumblebrook, where Amelia Farnsworth uncovers Eleanor’s long-hidden journals and discovers that the greatest legacy isn’t preserving the past—it’s building a better future. From there we enter the world of The Miami Connection, where investigative journalist Max Larkin learns that exposing corruption isn’t the end of the story. Sometimes the greatest victories simply reveal the next challenge—and purpose becomes the light that keeps us moving. Finally, we travel to the Pacific Theater of World War II in The Secret Eye, where Charlie Brand faces the devastating realities of war and discovers that true resilience often grows through loss, faith, and extraordinary leadership. Together, these three stories reveal a simple but powerful truth: Hope isn’t the absence of darkness. It’s the decision to keep walking toward the light. In this episode you’ll discover: Why every great story eventually turns toward hope How ordinary people become symbols of resilience The role of purpose after the mystery has been solved Why community often becomes the strongest source of healing What storytelling teaches us about moving forward after loss If you’ve ever wondered how stories inspire courage long after the final page, this episode is for you. Join the conversation on our Facebook Group, The Reading Room Join us as we explore why every great story leaves its characters—and its readers—changed forever. Readings: The Ink That Remains The Miami Connection The Secret Eye Visit BradfordPress.net to discover more stories from Bradford Press. mystery storytelling, cozy mystery podcast, book podcast, storytelling podcast, mystery writing, literary podcast, story analysis, fiction podcast, thriller podcast, historical fiction podcast, reading podcast, cozy mystery stories, mystery clues in stories, how mysteries are written, detective storytelling, mystery story structure, story clues and suspense, fiction reading podcast
The Weight of the Truth | Between the Pages EP21
Episode 21: The Weight of the Truth There comes a moment in every great story when the mystery has been solved—but the real journey is only beginning. In Episode 21 of Between the Pages, The Weight of the Truth, we explore what happens after the truth finally comes to light. Because discovering the truth is one thing. Living with it is something entirely different. Through three powerful stories, we examine the cost of revelation. In Tumblebrook, Doris Finch must confront the burden of a family legacy she never chose, discovering that truth has the power not only to expose the guilty but to free the innocent. In The Miami Connection, Jenna Morgan realizes that exposing corruption places everyone she loves directly in danger, forcing her to decide whether the truth is still worth fighting for. And aboard the USS Yorktown in The Secret Eye, Charlie Brand learns that surviving war means carrying the memory of those who never came home. Some truths don’t simply change history—they change the people who witness it. Together, these stories ask one unforgettable question: What happens after you discover the truth? Can you ever return to the person you were before? Join the conversation on our Facebook Group, The Reading Room Join us as we explore why every great story leaves its characters—and its readers—changed forever. Readings: The Roses Remember The Miami Connection The Secret Eye Visit BradfordPress.net to discover more stories from Bradford Press. mystery storytelling, cozy mystery podcast, book podcast, storytelling podcast, mystery writing, literary podcast, story analysis, fiction podcast, thriller podcast, historical fiction podcast, reading podcast, cozy mystery stories, mystery clues in stories, how mysteries are written, detective storytelling, mystery story structure, story clues and suspense, fiction reading podcast
The Enemy Who Thinks Their Right | Between the Pages EP 20
Episode 20: The Enemy Who Thinks They’re Right Every story has an adversary. But the most memorable enemies rarely see themselves as villains. In Episode 20 of Between the Pages, we explore one of storytelling’s most fascinating questions: What happens when the person standing in the way of the truth genuinely believes they are doing the right thing? Through readings from a cozy mystery, a thriller, and a historical fiction novel, we encounter three very different forms of opposition. A secret society convinced it is preserving history. A cartel leader who believes control protects those he loves. Military leaders driven by duty, sacrifice, and devotion to country. None of them believe they are evil. Yet each stands in opposition to truth. Join us as we examine power, ideology, loyalty, and the fine line between conviction and corruption. Story Question: "Is a villain still a villain if they believe they are the hero?" Join the conversation on our Facebook Group, The Reading Room Selected Readings: The Monarch Legacy The Miami Connection The Secret Eye Visit BradfordPress.net to discover more stories from Bradford Press. mystery storytelling, cozy mystery podcast, book podcast, storytelling podcast, mystery writing, literary podcast, story analysis, fiction podcast, thriller podcast, historical fiction podcast, reading podcast, cozy mystery stories, mystery clues in stories, how mysteries are written, detective storytelling, mystery story structure, story clues and suspense, fiction reading podcast
The First Time Everything Changes | Between the Pages EP19
Episode 19: The First Time Everything Changes Every great story contains a moment when everything changes. A moment when curiosity becomes responsibility. When questions become consequences. When ordinary people realize they can no longer walk away. In this episode of Between the Pages, we explore the turning points that transform investigators, journalists, and soldiers into something more. Join Amelia Farnsworth as a hidden chamber beneath a boathouse reveals evidence that someone is willing to kill to protect a secret. Follow Max Larkin as a dangerous investigation becomes deeply personal, forcing him to confront the loss that still drives him forward. And stand beside Charlie Brand aboard the USS Lexington as he experiences the first wartime loss that teaches him a hard truth: not everyone comes home. Across cozy mystery, thriller, and historical fiction, these stories reveal a universal truth: Most heroes don’t volunteer. Most simply reach a moment where turning back is no longer possible. Story Question: What is the moment that changes an ordinary person forever? Selected Readings Cinnamon Lies and Ledgers The Miami Connection The Secret Eye mystery storytelling, cozy mystery podcast, book podcast, storytelling podcast, mystery writing, literary podcast, story analysis, fiction podcast, thriller podcast, historical fiction podcast, reading podcast, cozy mystery stories, mystery clues in stories, how mysteries are written, detective storytelling, mystery story structure, story clues and suspense, fiction reading podcast
The Villain Every Story Needs | Between the Pages EP18
Episode 18: The Villain Every Story Needs Every great story has someone standing in the way of the truth. In Episode 18 of Between the Pages, we explore one of storytelling’s most important elements: the villain. Not simply the bad guy. Not merely the person who commits the crime. But the force that opposes truth, challenges heroes, protects secrets, and raises the stakes. Through readings from Cinnamon, Lies, and Ledgers, The Miami Connection, and The Secret Eye, we examine three very different forms of opposition: • The respected community leader who manipulates history from the shadows. • The cartel boss who rules through fear and control. • The military and ideological forces that drive nations toward war. Together, these stories reveal why memorable villains are often more than individuals. They can be systems, institutions, beliefs, and ambitions powerful enough to shape entire lives. Because every mystery has someone protecting the secret. Every investigation threatens someone. And every truth has an enemy. Join us as we explore what makes a villain unforgettable—and why heroes only become heroes when something pushes back. Podcast Readings: Reading 1: Cinnamon, Lies, and Ledgers Reading 2: The Miami Connection Reading 3: The Secret Eye mystery storytelling, cozy mystery podcast, book podcast, storytelling podcast, mystery writing, literary podcast, story analysis, fiction podcast, thriller podcast, historical fiction podcast, reading podcast, cozy mystery stories, mystery clues in stories, how mysteries are written, detective storytelling, mystery story structure, story clues and suspense, fiction reading podcast
The Cost of Staying Quiet | Between the Pages EP 17
Episode 17: The Cost of Staying Quiet Full Podcast Description Sometimes history changes because people act. And sometimes it changes because they don’t. In Episode 17 of Between the Pages, we explore the moments when warnings were ignored, questions went unanswered, and dangerous truths remained buried. Through readings from The Secret Eye, The Miami Connection, and The Bookseller’s Secret, we examine three very different worlds connected by a common thread: the consequences of staying silent. At Pearl Harbor, radar operators detect something alarming on their screens—but their warning is dismissed. In Florida, a frightened courier finally shares information about a growing criminal network, only after realizing silence has allowed the danger to spread. And in Tumblebrook, Amelia Farnsworth discovers that some members of the town council may know far more about the town’s hidden history than they are willing to admit. This episode explores: • warnings ignored • fear and self-preservation • institutional silence • buried secrets • community complicity • the consequences of hesitation Because the cost of staying quiet is rarely paid immediately. Sometimes it is paid years later. And sometimes by people who never had the chance to speak at all. If you enjoy the stories featured in this episode, visit Bradford Press for books and reading bundles inspired by the podcast. And for curated literary gifts, cozy merchandise, and fresh roasted Misty Lake Coffee, visit The Curated Shelf. Join our Facebook community and continue the conversation. The question remains: When does staying silent become its own kind of choice? Join our Facebook Group, The Reading Room Selected Readings: The Secret Eye The Miami Connection The Bookseller's Secret (Coming Soon) mystery storytelling, cozy mystery podcast, book podcast, storytelling podcast, mystery writing, literary podcast, story analysis, fiction podcast, thriller podcast, historical fiction podcast, reading podcast, cozy mystery stories, mystery clues in stories, how mysteries are written, detective storytelling, mystery story structure, story clues and suspense, fiction reading podcast
What We Leave Behind | Between the Pages Ep 16
Episode 16: What We Leave Behind Before history remembers the battles… there were goodbyes. In this emotional episode of Between the Pages, we step away from strategy, ships, and wartime headlines to explore the deeply human cost of stepping into uncertainty. Through moving readings from The Secret Eye, we follow Charlie Brand as his journey toward war is unexpectedly transformed by love, hope, and the promise of a future he desperately wants to return to. From a chance meeting aboard a train to heartfelt letters exchanged across oceans, What We Leave Behind explores the emotional reality faced by those who leave for war—and the loved ones left waiting behind. This episode explores: love interrupted by history wartime separation promises made under uncertainty emotional resilience hope as a form of survival the quiet courage of those who wait Because before soldiers become part of history… they are sons. Sweethearts. Dreamers. And the people they leave behind often become the very reason they fight to come home. If you enjoy the stories featured in this episode, visit bradfordpress.net for books and reading bundles connected to the podcast. For curated literary gifts, cozy merchandise, and fresh roasted Misty Lake Coffee, visit thecuratedshelf.store. Join our growing Facebook reader community: The Reading Room All Readings from this podcast from The Secret Eye historical storytelling podcast, World War II history podcast, WWII Pacific Theater stories, wartime storytelling, historical fiction podcast, Pearl Harbor history, Pacific War stories, military history storytelling, historical narrative podcast, WWII personal stories, Bradford Press, Misty Lake Coffee, The Curated Shelf
The First Wrong Move | Between the Pages EP 15
Between the Pages — Episode 15 The First Wrong Move Every great mystery has a moment when curiosity becomes consequence. A hidden chamber beneath an old estate. A dangerous lead in a cartel investigation. A secret uncovered beneath a ruined lighthouse. In Episode 15 of Between the Pages, we explore the storytelling moment that changes everything: the first wrong move. Join Brad as we step into the cozy mystery world of Amelia Farnsworth, Clara Henderson, and Lady Grey in readings from Artful Deception and The Bookseller’s Secret, then shift into the darker, high-stakes world of The Miami Connection, where a single decision may trigger catastrophe. What happens when a character pushes too far? When does curiosity stop being investigation—and become danger? This episode explores how both cozy mysteries and thrillers use consequence to transform story tension, proving that one choice can change everything. ☕ Featuring readings from: Artful Deception The Miami Connection The Bookseller’s Secret - Coming this Month!!! 🎙 Story Question: Have you ever made a decision that felt small in the moment—but changed everything afterward? Join us at The Reading Room and share your experiences! Listen now on Between the Pages. mystery storytelling, cozy mystery podcast, book podcast, storytelling podcast, mystery writing, literary podcast, story analysis, fiction podcast, thriller podcast, reading podcast, cozy mystery stories, mystery clues in stories, how mysteries are written, detective storytelling, mystery story structure, story clues and suspense, fiction reading podcast
The Secret Everyone Knows | Between the Pages Ep 14
Episode 14: The Secret Everyone Knows In small towns, secrets rarely belong to just one person. In this episode of Between the Pages, we return to Tumblebrook to explore one of the defining elements of the cozy mystery genre: the quiet, unspoken secrets hidden beneath the surface of seemingly peaceful communities. Through three atmospheric readings from The Bookseller’s Secret, Misdeeds and Mistletoe, and The Monarch Legacy, we follow Amelia Farnsworth, Clara Henderson, and Lady Grey as they uncover whispered warnings, hidden historical connections, and signs that Tumblebrook itself may be protecting something buried deep within its past. As council meetings grow tense, old artifacts resurface, and abandoned campsites reveal traces of someone searching for the truth, Amelia and Clara begin to realize something unsettling: The silence surrounding a mystery can become just as dangerous as the mystery itself. Join us as we explore: communal silence hidden history social loyalty generational secrets and why cozy mysteries often reveal the darkness hidden beneath the warmth of small-town life. If you enjoy the stories featured in this episode, visit bradfordpress.net for books and reading bundles connected to the podcast. And for curated literary gifts, cozy merchandise, and fresh roasted Misty Lake Coffee, visit thecuratedshelf.store. Join our Facebook community: Between the Pages | The Reading Room Selected Readings Reading 1: The Booksellers Secret - A new release from Ellen Le Teace, available in late May Reading 2: Misdeeds and Mistletoe Reading 3: The Monarch Legacy mystery storytelling, cozy mystery podcast, book podcast, storytelling podcast, mystery writing, literary podcast, story analysis, fiction podcast, reading podcast, cozy mystery stories, mystery clues in stories, how mysteries are written, detective storytelling, mystery story structure, story clues and suspense, fiction reading podcast
Courage in Uncertain Times | Between the Pages Ep 13
Episode 13: Courage in Uncertain Times Before the first battle is fought… courage has already begun to take shape. In this episode of Between the Pages, we continue the parallel journeys of Charlie Brand and Hadaki Yamatsumi as they step into the early days of wartime preparation—where uncertainty, discipline, and responsibility begin to redefine who they are. Through three immersive readings, we explore the emotional reality of preparing for conflict: leaving home, enduring training, and discovering purpose in unexpected places. From Charlie’s quiet transition into a top-secret radar program to Hadaki’s harsh introduction to military discipline, both young men are shaped by forces far larger than themselves. Because courage in uncertain times doesn’t always look like action. Sometimes it looks like endurance. Sometimes it looks like curiosity. And sometimes… it looks like taking the next step forward without knowing where it will lead. Join us as we explore how ordinary individuals begin to transform in extraordinary moments—and how courage often begins long before it’s ever called upon. Selected Readings from The Secret Eye: The Secret Eye Join our Facebook Group: Between the Pages | The Reading Room historical storytelling podcast, World War II history podcast, WWII Pacific Theater stories, wartime storytelling, historical fiction podcast, Pearl Harbor history, Pacific War stories, military history storytelling, historical narrative podcast, WWII personal stories, Bradford Press, Misty Lake Coffee, The Curated Shelf
Why Some People Refuse to Stop Asking Questions | Between the Pages Ep 12
Episode 12: Why Some People Refuse to Stop Asking Questions At what point does curiosity stop being a choice… and become something you can’t walk away from? In this episode of Between the Pages, we explore the psychology of investigators—those who continue asking questions even when the answers begin to lead somewhere dangerous. Through three immersive readings, we follow Clara, Amelia, and Jenna as they each confront a different stage of curiosity: the moment patterns begin to form, the realization that truth carries responsibility, and the growing awareness that asking questions can have real consequences. Because not everyone who notices something chooses to pursue it. But some people can’t stop. Join us as we examine what drives that persistence—and why, in both stories and life, the people who keep asking questions are often the ones who uncover the truth. Selected Readings: Reading 1: Cinnamon, Lies, and Ledgers Reading 2: The Ink That Remains Reading 3: The Miami Connection: The Miami Connection If you enjoyed this episode, you can explore more stories and reading bundles at www.bradfordpress.net. And to enhance your reading experience, discover Misty Lake Coffee and story-inspired collections at www.thecuratedshelf.store—where every great story deserves the perfect setting. Between the Pages Facebook Group mystery storytelling, cozy mystery podcast, book podcast, storytelling podcast, mystery writing, literary podcast, story analysis, fiction podcast, reading podcast, cozy mystery stories, mystery clues in stories, how mysteries are written, detective storytelling, mystery story structure, story clues and suspense, fiction reading podcast
The Stories Towns Remember | Between the Pages EP 11
Episode 11: The Stories Towns Remember Every town carries its own history—some written in books… and others passed quietly from one voice to another. In this episode of Between the Pages, we return to Tumblebrook to explore how small-town memory shapes the mysteries hidden beneath its charming surface. Through three readings, we uncover how local legends, whispered warnings, and long-forgotten events begin to reveal a deeper truth—one that has been carefully preserved, and perhaps deliberately concealed. As Clara and Amelia follow the threads of the past, patterns begin to emerge: hidden societies, vanishing records, and stories that refuse to stay buried. What begins as curiosity quickly becomes something more—an understanding that the town itself remembers… even when the truth has been rewritten. Join us as we explore how memory, history, and storytelling intertwine—and why the past often holds the key to the present. Readings Reading 1: Cinnamon, Lies, and Ledgers: https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/cinnamon-lies-and-ledgers-ebook Reading 2: The Monarch Legacy: https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-monarch-legacy-ebook Reading 3: Cinnamon, Lies, and Ledgers: https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/cinnamon-lies-and-ledgers-ebook If you enjoyed this episode, you can explore more stories and reading bundles at www.bradfordpress.net. And to enhance your reading experience, discover Misty Lake Coffee and story-inspired collections at www.thecuratedshelf.store—where every great story deserves the perfect setting. Join the conversation in our Facebook Group: Between the Pages
Small Clues, Big Mysteries | Between the Page Ep 10
Small Clues, Big Mysteries Mysteries rarely begin with dramatic discoveries. More often, they start with something small — a name written where it shouldn’t be, a forgotten journal, or a detail that suddenly refuses to be ignored. In this episode of Between the Pages, we explore how great mystery stories are built from subtle clues and careful observation. Through readings set in the quiet town of Tumblebrook, Amelia Farnsworth, Clara Henderson, and Lady Grey begin noticing the small details that hint at a much larger secret. From a curious pattern hidden inside the guestbook of the Tumblebrook Inn… to a long-forgotten journal that suggests the past may still hold dangerous truths… to a simple object that may become the key to solving a tragedy… Each discovery reminds us that the most powerful mysteries often grow from the smallest clues. Along the way, we reflect on how writers use subtle details to build suspense and how attentive characters begin piecing together the truth. So pour yourself a cup of Misty Lake Coffee, settle in, and join us as we explore the moments when curiosity begins and small clues lead to big mysteries. In this episode: • How small clues spark curiosity in mystery stories • Why patterns are often the first step toward discovery • The role of forgotten journals and hidden history in storytelling • How ordinary objects can become powerful clues Reading Selections: Reading 1: The Monarch Legacy: https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-monarch-legacy-ebook Reading 2: Cinnamon, Lies, and Ledgers: https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/cinnamon-lies-and-ledgers-ebook Reading 3: The Ink That Remains: https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-ink-that-remains-ebook If you enjoy the show, please follow, subscribe, and share the podcast with fellow readers. You can discover more stories from Bradford Press at: www.bradfordpress.net And explore Misty Lake Coffee and curated reading experiences at: www.thecuratedshelf.net Join the Between the Pages community and continue the conversation here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2248126439051499/ mystery storytelling, cozy mystery podcast, book podcast, storytelling podcast, mystery writing, literary podcast, story analysis, fiction podcast, reading podcast, cozy mystery stories, mystery clues in stories, how mysteries are written, detective storytelling, mystery story structure, story clues and suspense, fiction reading podcast
Before the Storm | Between the Pages Ep 9.
Episode 9: Before the Storm Before history remembers the battles… there were simply two young men living ordinary lives. In this episode of Between the Pages, we return to the early lives of Charlie Brand and Hadaki Yamatsumi—two young men growing up on opposite sides of the world in the years leading up to World War II. Through four readings, we explore the moments that slowly shape their paths: a quiet afternoon at a movie theater in Arkansas, a peaceful morning beneath Mount Fuji, the shock of the Pearl Harbor attack, and the growing realization that duty may soon call them to serve their countries. As their worlds begin to change, Charlie and Hadaki each face a decision that will alter the course of their lives forever. Join us as we reflect on how ordinary lives are drawn into extraordinary moments—and how the choices of individuals ultimately become part of the story we call history. If you enjoy the readings featured in this episode, visit bradfordpress.net for reading bundles and books connected to the stories you hear on this podcast. And for curated literary gifts, coffee, and products inspired by great storytelling, visit thecuratedshelf.store. Selected Readings from The Secret Eye: https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-secret-eye-ebook Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2248126439051499 historical storytelling podcast, World War II history podcast, WWII Pacific Theater stories, wartime storytelling, historical fiction podcast, Pearl Harbor history, Pacific War stories, military history storytelling, historical narrative podcast, WWII personal stories, Bradford Press, Misty Lake Coffee, The Curated Shelf
When Curiosity Becomes Dangerous | Between the Pages EP 8
Episode 8: When Curiosity Becomes Dangerous In this thriller-focused episode of Between the Pages, the story reaches a turning point. Curiosity is often how great stories begin. A question asked. A detail noticed. A small inconsistency that refuses to be ignored. But sometimes curiosity leads somewhere dangerous. In this episode, we return to the growing tension inside the world of the thriller as Max Latkin begins to realize that what he has stumbled upon may be far more significant—and far more dangerous—than he first imagined. What began as a search for understanding is quickly becoming something else entirely: the discovery of secrets that powerful people would rather keep hidden. Through two extended reading segments, listeners experience the moment when a character crosses the invisible line between observer and participant—when knowing the truth becomes its own kind of risk. In the commentary that follows, we explore a central idea behind many of the greatest thrillers: the moment when curiosity becomes responsibility. When a character must decide whether the pursuit of truth is worth the danger it invites. Because once a person sees something they cannot unsee, the story can never return to what it was before. Sometimes the most dangerous step in any thriller isn’t chasing the truth. It’s discovering it. Continue the stories and find the books at: www.bradfordpress.net Readings: The Miami Connection - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-miami-connection-ebook Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2248126439051499 thriller podcast, book reading podcast, storytelling podcast, author podcast, cartel thriller, Bradford Press books, relaxing podcast for readers, book lovers podcast
The Quiet Observer: Lady Grey | Between the Pages EP. 7
Episode 7: The Quiet Observer — Lady Grey In Episode 7 of Between the Pages, we meet one of the most unusual investigators in the town of Tumblebrook: Lady Grey. She doesn’t speak. She doesn’t keep notes. And she certainly doesn’t explain what she knows. But again and again, this observant British Shorthair cat finds the clues others miss. Through three story readings from the Tumblebrook Mystery Series, we explore how Lady Grey’s instincts guide Amelia and Clara toward hidden truths. From secret symbols in the attic to suspicious guests and long-buried conspiracies beneath the town, Lady Grey proves that sometimes the most important observer in a mystery is the one who notices everything—and says nothing. In this episode, we reflect on the role animals often play in storytelling, why instinct can reveal danger before logic catches up, and how quiet observations can become the first step toward uncovering the truth. Because in every good mystery, someone has to notice the detail that doesn’t belong. And in Tumblebrook, that someone is often a cat. Reading 1: Misdeed and Mistletoe - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/misdeeds-and-mistletoe Reading 3: The Roses Remember - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-roses-remember Reading 2: Whiskers and Whispers - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/whiskers-and-whispers-ebook To continue the story and find our books, join us at Bradford Press: www.bradfordpress.net Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2248126439051499 cozy mystery podcast, book reading podcast, storytelling podcast, author podcast, small town mystery, Tumblebrook series, Bradford Press books, relaxing podcast for readers, book lovers podcast
The Mind Behind the Mystery: Meeting Clara | Between the Pages Ep. 6
Episode 6: Clara Henderson — The Mind Behind the Mystery In this episode of Between the Pages, we turn our attention to one of the most important minds in the town of Tumblebrook: Clara Henderson. While Amelia Farnsworth often senses when something isn’t right, Clara is the one who follows the clues. With a sharp eye for patterns and a deep love of research, Clara has a unique gift for uncovering the truths hidden inside old records, forgotten maps, and half-told stories. Through three readings from the Tumblebrook Mystery Series, we explore how Clara’s curiosity and analytical thinking help unravel secrets that others might overlook—from mysterious identities and hidden land deals to coded messages buried in the town’s history. Along the way, we reflect on why characters like Clara are so essential to mystery storytelling—and why curiosity, patience, and attention to detail are often the most powerful tools a detective can possess. If you’ve ever loved the moment when a puzzle finally begins to make sense, this episode is for you. Because sometimes the biggest mysteries aren’t solved by force or luck… but by someone willing to sit quietly, read carefully, and follow the truth wherever it leads. Reading 1: The Ink That Remains - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-ink-that-remains-ebook Reading 2: Whiskers and Whispers - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/whiskers-and-whispers-ebook Reading 3: The Monarch Legacy - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-monarch-legacy-ebook To continue the story and find our books, join us at Bradford Press: www.bradfordpress.net Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2248126439051499 cozy mystery podcast, book reading podcast, storytelling podcast, author podcast, small town mystery, Tumblebrook series, Bradford Press books, relaxing podcast for readers, book lovers podcast
Meeting the Innkeeper | Between the Pages Podcast Ep. 5
Episode 5 — Meeting the Innkeeper In this episode of Between the Pages, we step inside the heart of Tumblebrook and meet the woman at its center — Amelia Farnsworth, the innkeeper. Before mysteries begin, there is routine. Before secrets surface, there is peace. Through three readings from the Tumblebrook series, we experience Amelia’s ordinary world — the rhythm of the inn, the weight of inherited history, and the quiet moment when something feels just slightly off. Cozy mysteries don’t begin with detectives. They begin with someone who notices. Episode 5 explores why readers connect so deeply to characters like Amelia — steady, observant, and unwilling to ignore what doesn’t feel right — and how ordinary attentiveness becomes the first act of courage. Reading 1: The Roses Remember - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-roses-remember Reading 2: Cinnamon, Lies, and Ledgers - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/cinnamon-lies-and-ledgers-ebook Reading 3: Artful Deception - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/artful-deception-ebook To continue the story and find our books, join us at Bradford Press: www.bradfordpress.net Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2248126439051499 cozy mystery podcast, book reading podcast, storytelling podcast, author podcast, small town mystery, Tumblebrook series, Bradford Press books, relaxing podcast for readers, book lovers podcast
Before History Knows Your Name | Between the Pages Podcast Ep. 4
Episode 4 — Before History Knows Your Name This week on Between the Pages, we explore historical fiction and why it offers a different kind of storytelling experience. Through readings from The Secret Eye, we follow two young men — one in Japan and one in the United States — whose lives unfold during the Second World War. Neither knows how history will remember their time. They only know the responsibilities placed in front of them. Historical fiction doesn’t simply tell us what happened. It helps us understand what it felt like to live before the outcome was certain. In this episode, we discuss how stories restore the human perspective to history and why they allow readers to experience empathy, courage, and uncertainty in ways facts alone cannot provide. If cozy mysteries comfort and thrillers create urgency, historical fiction offers something deeper: perspective. Readings: The Secret Eye - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-secret-eye-ebook To continue the story and find our books, join us at Bradford Press: www.bradfordpress.net Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2248126439051499 cozy mystery podcast, book reading podcast, storytelling podcast, author podcast, small town mystery, Tumblebrook series, Bradford Press books, relaxing podcast for readers, book lovers podcast
When Stories Become Dangerous | Between the Pages Podcast Ep. 3
Episode 3: When the Story Becomes Dangerous In this episode of Between the Pages, we step beyond the quiet streets of small-town mysteries and into a different kind of story — one where truth moves faster than safety. What happens when asking questions becomes risky? Today we introduce the thriller genre through a reading from The Miami Connection. Instead of a detective solving a past crime, we follow a journalist who begins uncovering something happening right now — a hidden network, unexplained disappearances, and evidence that someone would prefer remain unseen. Thrillers feel different from cozy mysteries. A mystery asks: What happened? A thriller asks: What will happen next… and can it be stopped? In this episode, we explore why thrillers create urgency, how ordinary people become involved in extraordinary situations, and why stories about truth and responsibility resonate so strongly with readers. Because sometimes the most dangerous moment in a story… is not discovering the truth. It’s knowing what to do after you’ve found it. You’ll hear two reading segments, reflections on storytelling, and a look at why courage often begins with simple curiosity. Next episode, we enter a different kind of tension — not danger in the present, but uncertainty in the past — as we explore historical fiction and The Secret Eye To learn more about our books, please visit Bradford Press: www.bradfordpress.net Reading: The Miami Connection - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-miami-connection-ebook Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2248126439051499 cozy mystery podcast, small town mystery, book reading podcast, storytelling podcast, relaxing podcast, Tumblebrook series, Bradford Press books, read aloud podcast, mystery audiobook style podcast
A Town Called Tumblebrook | Between the Pages Podcast Ep. 2
Episode 2 — A Town Called Tumblebrook In this episode of Between the Pages, we step into the small lakeside town where our cozy mysteries unfold. Tumblebrook may seem quiet at first — a café filled with morning conversation, a summer festival at the inn, familiar faces moving through familiar routines. But stories rarely begin with dramatic events. They begin with small changes. A discovery that doesn’t belong. An absence that suddenly matters. You’ll hear two readings from life in Tumblebrook and a reflection on why place matters in storytelling. Cozy mysteries aren’t only about solving a puzzle — they’re about protecting a community. Visit the town, meet its people, and experience how an ordinary day can quietly become the beginning of a mystery. If this visit to Tumblebrook felt like a place you’d like to return to, follow the show so you won’t miss next week’s episode. Reading 1: The Roses Remember: https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-roses-remember Reading 2: Whiskers and Whispers: https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/whiskers-and-whispers-ebook Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2248126439051499 cozy mystery podcast, small town mystery, book reading podcast, storytelling podcast, relaxing podcast, Tumblebrook series, Bradford Press books, read aloud podcast, mystery audiobook style podcast
Why Stories Matter | Between the Pages Podcast Ep. 1
Episode 1 — Why Stories Matter (and Why I Started Bradford Press) Why do stories stay with us? In the first episode of Between the Pages, Brad introduces the purpose behind Bradford Press and the heart behind the podcast — not reviews, not summaries, but an experience of the story itself. You’ll hear a gentle reading from a cozy mystery set in the town of Tumblebrook and a reflection on why books have always meant more than entertainment. Stories accompany us, comfort us, and sometimes help us understand our own lives. This episode is an invitation to slow down, listen, and step inside a story. Continue the stories and find the books at: www.bradfordpress.net Reading 1: The Murderous Manuscript - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-murderous-manuscript Reading 2: The Monarch Legacy - https://thecuratedshelf.store/products/the-monarch-legacy-ebook Join our Facebook Group: Between the Pages cozy mystery podcast, book reading podcast, storytelling podcast, author podcast, small town mystery, Tumblebrook series, Bradford Press books, relaxing podcast for readers, book lovers podcast
Between The Pages | A Bradford Press Podcast | Trailer
Between the Pages: A Bradford Press Podcast Stories don’t end when the book closes. Between the Pages is a storytelling podcast from Bradford Press, where listeners step inside the worlds of the books themselves. Each week you’ll hear narrated readings, explore the characters behind the stories, and discover the inspirations that shaped them. From small-town cozy mysteries to gripping thrillers and immersive historical fiction, this podcast is for readers who want more than a summary — it’s for those who want to live inside the story. Pour a cup of coffee, settle into your favorite chair, and join us as we bring novels to life one chapter at a time. New episodes released weekly. Continue the stories and find the books at: www.thecuratedshelf.store www.bradfordpress.net