As part of Big Blend Radio’s National Novel Writing Month programming, this episode of the Books & Authors Show with Books Forward features award-winning author Leigh M. Hall, who discusses her new atmospheric post–Civil War horror novel, The Chambermaids (LMH Publications, Nov. 11, 2025).

A Claymore Award Winner for Best Southern Gothic, The Chambermaids follows a young woman and her older husband as they inherit a crumbling ancestral home—only to discover the walls hold more than memories. When two mysterious chambermaids arrive, the house’s haunting secrets begin to unravel, blurring the line between freedom and fate.

Blending psychological thriller and Southern Gothic elements, Hall delivers a chilling and thought-provoking story set in the aftermath of the Civil War—perfect for fans of Anne Rice and Shirley Jackson.

In this engaging conversation, Leigh shares her unique writing journey, how fear and isolation shape her characters, and the importance of authenticity and atmosphere in storytelling. She also discusses the complexities of women’s roles in historical fiction, the influence of Southern culture on her work, and her ongoing exploration of dark, haunting narratives.

✨Learn more about Leigh at https://www.leighmhall.com/

✨Learn more about Books Forward at https://booksforward.com/ ✨This episode is featured on Big Blend Radio’s “A Toast to The Arts," “Big Daily Blend,” and "Women Making History" podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In celebration of National Book Month and National Arts & Humanities Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “A Toast to The Arts” Show features award-winning travel writer Barbara Redding, who takes us on a literary adventure through Denmark. From the Karen Blixen Museum, home of the famed author of Out of Africa, to Kronborg Castle, the real-life setting that inspired Elsinore in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet, Prince of Denmark,” Barbara shares insights from her journey through these historic and creative landmarks.

Hear about Blixen’s fascinating life and legacy, her time in Africa, and how personal experiences shape storytelling. The episode also highlights Denmark’s landscapes, cultural richness, and the ways travel deepens one’s appreciation for literature and art.

📖 Read Barbara’s full article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-literary-day-trip-in-denmark/

🌍 Follow Barbara’s travels and stories: https://www.BarbaraRedding.com

🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," "Women Making History," "Way Back When," and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Pet Connection" show highlights the mission, history, and impact of the Helen Woodward Animal Center in San Diego, California (and the story behind its founder, Helen Woodward). Co-host Angela Laws joins Michael Makie from the Center to discuss animal welfare, education, and the life-changing benefits of pet companionship through being a pet parent, adopting or fostering a pet, or volunteering.

This episode covers: - The history and mission of Helen Woodward Animal Center - How fostering pets increases adoption rates and provides essential care - Changing perceptions of misunderstood breeds, like pit bull terriers - The adoption process and considerations for holiday adoptions - The therapeutic benefits of animal interaction for humans - How TrustedHousesitters supports pet care when owners travel

Whether you’re a pet parent, prospective adopter, or animal lover, this conversation underscores the importance of education, compassion, and community in animal welfare.

🐾 Learn more about Helen Woodward Animal Center: https://animalcenter.org/ 🐾 Learn more about TrustedHousesitters: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com

🎧 Listen to more “Pet Connection” episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com 🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Big Daily Blend" and “Women Making History” podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork