Historical Bookworm

Country Girl and Lifelong Writer Ann H. Gabhart
A country girl, born and raised on a farm in the Outer Bluegrass region of Kentucky, Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of many novels, including historical novels, mysteries, non-fiction, and books for young adult readers. She and her husband live on a farm a mile from where she was born in rural Kentucky. Ann enjoys discovering the everyday wonders of nature while hiking in her farm’s fields and woods with her grandchildren and her dogs, Frankie and Marley.
A Decades-Long CareerAnn takes us back to her early days writing, and describes how she came to publish her first novel and discover this was something she would continue doing her whole life long. She includes a few details from the story that she says she’s never shared in an interview before.
Kentucky Hot SpringsAs a native of Kentucky, Ann loves finding new and interesting history to explore in her home state. Her latest novel, The Pursuit of Elena Bradford, takes us to Graham Springs, a natural hot spring known as “The Saratoga of the West” during the mid-1800s. She shares some of her research about the founder of this spa-like vacation destination tucked in rural Kentucky.
Complex CharactersElena Bradford, heroine of Ann’s latest book, is torn between two men — and the duty she owes to her family. Ann discusses the backstory and motivations of her characters, setting the stage for a people-driven story in a lush and luxurious historical setting.
Connect with Ann at her website, where you can subscribe to her newsletter, and on Facebook, Instagram, X, Pinterest, and Bookbub.
Nothing would please her family more than her securing an admirable match, but true love and loyalty are harder to come by than she imagined.
At twenty-two, Elena Bradford has never met a man who made her consider marriage. But when her father dies and leaves the family deeply in debt, Elena becomes their only hope. Her mother uses their last funds to take Elena and her younger sister to Graham Springs, Kentucky, where people find healing by drinking the mineral spring water and healthy recreation through the many daily activities–including dances almost every evening.
As her mother schemes to find Elena a wealthy husband, Elena finds herself drawn to two men her mother would never consider. Charming artist Kirby Frazier spends his days drawing and painting the guests, but his real mission is to find a wealthy bride to finance his dream to go west. Melancholy Andrew Harper has come to Graham Springs in need of healing after a broken heart.
When a beautiful young lady shows up at the Springs with no chaperone and a story that seems suspicious, nearly everyone is charmed and intrigued. But when an unexpected tragedy occurs, Elena, Kirby, and Andrew will all be faced with decisions of life, love, and loyalty.
With a Southern flair and a spark of intrigue, this stand-alone clean historical romance will charm readers with masterful artists, colorful dances, a love triangle, and endearing family relationships.
Bookwork Review of Veiled in Smoke by Jocelyn Green“Veiled in Smoke by Jocelyn Green is a sweeping period drama that combines PTSD representation, nods to classic literature, a murder mystery, and poignant spiritual themes into an immersive tale of sisterhood and starting over.
Fans of The Lost Melody by Joanna Davidson Politano will be moved by the heart-rending depiction of a 19th century insane asylum, and history lovers will be captivated by Green’s scrupulous research and atmospheric prose, which transpose historical events from sepia toned facts to emotive human experiences awash in vivid color.
If you’ve ever been curious about The Great Chicago Fire, allow Jocelyn Green to spin you a harrowing tale Veiled in Smoke!”
~ Angela Bell, author of A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure
About the AuthorJocelyn Green inspires faith and courage as the award-winning and bestselling author of numerous fiction and nonfiction books, including The Mark of the King; Wedded to War; and The 5 Love Languages Military Edition, which she coauthored with bestselling author Dr. Gary Chapman. Her books have garnered starred reviews from Booklist and Publishers Weekly, and have been honored with the Christy Award, the gold medal from the Military Writers Society of America, and the Golden Scroll Award from the Advanced Writers & Speakers Association. She graduated from Taylor University in Upland, Indiana, with a B.A. in English, concentration in writing. She loves Mexican food, Broadway musicals, pie, the color red, and reading with a cup of tea. Jocelyn lives with her husband Rob and two children in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Visit her at www.jocelyngreen.com.