What did it take to write this riveting novel? In this episode, we dive into Rick Skwiot’s gripping new historical novel, The Bootlegger’s Bride—a haunting tale of vengeance, identity, and survival set against the backdrop of Prohibition-era St. Louis and post-WWII America. When two bodies surface through Long Lake’s frozen silence—one suicide, one murder—twelve-year-old A.J. Nowak is thrust into a decades-long mystery rooted in his family’s dark legacy.
Whether you're drawn to historical fiction, psychological drama, or tales of redemption, this episode peels back the layers of a Midwest gone by—where honor and heartbreak collide.
Learn more about Rick Skwiot and his work at: www.rickskwiot.com
visist: www.chuckschathub.com
Read a sample: https://amzn.to/4luGKHD
00:00 Pet PSA
00:05 Author Background and Writing Journey
01:29 Exploring 'The Bootlegger's Bride'
03:43 Understanding Historical Fiction
04:57 Research and Personal Stories
06:33 Writing Style and Structure
09:37 Setting and Character Development
11:11 The Impact of AI on Writing
12:34 Book Promotion and Availability
14:30 Cover Design and Its Significance
15:01 Emotional Depth and Reader Experience
17:22 Character Perspectives and Plot Dynamics
18:34 Conclusion and Future Works