Books & Looks: Real Books for Real Readers was started as a literary podcast to supplement Blaine Desantis’ website, ViewsOnBooks.com, and expand into audio and video interviews with authors.
With Books & Looks, Blaine’s goal is to focus on real books that real people will read. At least half of the books he reviews are either new authors or unknown authors that many in the general public are unaware of. After a segment reviewing books or interviewing authors, Blaine ends each episode with a discussion of the movies and TV shows he is currently watching.
Learn more about BookTrib’s partner and Blaine at ViewsOnBooks.com.
This Week’s Episode
Welcome to Books and Looks! In this fascinating deep dive, Blaine DeSantis sits down with Sara Winokur, author of the gripping historical fiction murder mystery, “Ivory Bones: The Lewis Chessmen Murders”. Prepare to question everything you thought you knew as ancient artifacts and cutting-edge DNA forensics collide in a most unexpected way. Discover how a chess piece buried for hundreds of years could trigger a murder spree in modern-day Reykjavik, Iceland, connecting centuries-old family secrets to a young woman’s diary from 1627. This interview promises to excite and surprise as we uncover the true, little-known history of the Turkish pirate raid on Iceland in 1627, a pivotal historical event that forms the backbone of this thrilling narrative.
Sara Winokur brings a truly unique perspective to her writing. For 25 years, she was a distinguished molecular geneticist at the University of California, identifying DNA mutations that cause human genetic diseases. After making significant discoveries in her previous career, a major health scare led her to reinvent herself and pursue her passion for writing fiction. “Ivory Bones” is her second book, showcasing her remarkable ability to blend rigorous scientific background with compelling storytelling. Adding another layer of intrigue, Sara reveals her surprising personal connection: she is a direct descendant of the Dutch mastermind behind the very Barbary pirate raid on Iceland featured in her book. This blend of personal history, scientific insight, and historical research makes her work amazingly believable.
Set against the eerie and resilient landscapes of Iceland, this novel offers a fresh take on the Nordic mystery genre. Unlike many gruesome Nordic Noirs, “Ivory Bones” focuses more on the unraveling of the mystery and the deep character development of its protagonists. You’ll follow Brinja, a forensic geneticist who uses her scientific prowess to solve modern-day murders, and Anna, a 17th-century diarist, as their lives parallel across time. This dual timeline structure allows for a rich exploration of history, culture, and the enduring human spirit.
Join us to learn how DNA can unlock deep historical secrets and delve into the fascinating true history that inspired “Ivory Bones.” This conversation is packed with insights for anyone who loves a well-crafted mystery that blends historical fact with captivating fiction.
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